Geauga County Maple Leaf 6-20-2024

Thursday, June 20, 2024

Vol. 30 No. 25 • Chardon, Ohio www.geaugamapleleaf.com

$1.25

Chardon Fireworks Relocated – for Now

Future of Show

Remains Up in the Air

By amy Patterson amy@Karlovecmedia.com

While Chardon’s Independence Day fireworks display has had a home at Chardon High School for decades, a few wrinkles — and a lot of yard litter — put a wrench in plans to keep them there this July.

Organizers Ed Babcock and Dave Jevnikar suggested to Chardon City Council June 13 the show move to a new location at the end of Loreto Way, also known as Meadowlands Extension.

The fireworks display is scheduled for July 6, with a July 7 rain date.

Babcock and Jevnikar said the higher elevation will give everyone a better view of what could be

Prostitution Raid Closes Chester Spa

By John Karlovec John@Karlovecmedia com

Chester Township police with the assistance of Geauga Coun ty sheriff’s deputies raided and closed the Ocean Spa and massage parlor last Wednesday morning, following complaints of possible il legal sexual acts being performed there.

Complaints about the spa be gan almost immediately after it opened earlier this year at 12661 Chillicothe Road, less than 100 feet north of the town hall, where Chesterland Safety Town is sched uled to begin Monday.

Chester Township Police Capt. Jeff Sherwood said Friday the complaints concerned potential prostitution occurring at the spa.

Hall, was raided June 12 following a months-long investigation into suspected prostitution.

Trustees, Auditor Plan to Return $700,000 to Taxpayers page 6

Obituaries pages 18-19 Opinion page 8 County Budget Stretched, But Solid page 9

Sheriff’s Sales & Legal Notices start on page 21

Classifieds page 23

The investigation initially was turned over to the Northeast Ohio Human Trafficking Task Force, which is made up of federal, state and local agencies investigating sex and labor trafficking cases,

Middlefield Village

Lot Consolidation Could Lead To Warehouse Construction

Contamination near Proposed Housing Concerns Official

By ann Wishart ann@Karlovecmedia

Middlefield Village Planning and Zoning Commission members voted on two potential projects in the southeast sector of the village during their June 11 meeting.

Zoning Inspector John Boksan sky reported Bonner Ohio Proper ties LTD has proposed consolidat ing two properties to create one 44-acre parcel near the intersec tion of East High Street and Mad ison Road.

The Geauga County Tax Map Department approved the consol idation, but the village engineer has not signed off on it, yet, Bok sansky said.

Geauga County Prosecutor Jim Flaiz said. When it appeared the investigation was slow-walking, Chester police and the prosecutor’s office sprang into action. Flaiz said Chester police con-

ducted a covert surveillance of the business. Thereafter, police interviewed several male custom ers whose vehicles were observed in the parking lot. The men were

Thompson Admin. Offices, Police Move to New Location

By ann Wishart ann@Karlovecmedia.com

The Thompson Township Police Department and administrative offices are currently on the move to a new location with more room.

The department is moving around the corner from 6784 Madison Road to 6751 Madison Road, Police Chief Jeremy Jesenovec told Thompson Township Trustees during their June 10 meeting.

Space and safety were the main reasons the township purchased the two-story house where they will be relocating township offices, as well as the police personnel, files and equipment.

Geauga Pride: A Colorful Show of Solidarity pages 12-13

“The current building is very old and dilapidated,” Jesenovec

GOOGLE PHOTO

The Ocean Spa, just north of Chester Township

Community Meetings

Listed are public meetings and executive sessions in the county for the coming week, unless otherwise noted. These meeting notices are NOT legal notices.

Geauga County: June 25, 9:30 a.m., Board of County Commissioners; June 26, 5 p.m.

– Geauga Public Health, Ste. 301, 7 p.m. –Health District Advisory Council, special meeting for purpose of electing a new HDAC president, Ste. 301. 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.

Bainbridge Township: June 20, 7 p.m., Board of Zoning Appeals; June 24, 7 p.m., Board of Trustees; June 25, 6 p.m., Zoning Commission. All meetings are held at Town Hall, 17826 Chillicothe Road, unless noted.

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

Chardon Township: June 24, 7 p.m., Park Com-

Thompson

from page 1

said. “We have a lot of stuff that is not fitting in there. The new building is right across the street and has a lot more room.”

Trustee Erwin Leffel said the building was unsafe.

"It was better for the community, financially, to purchase the house rather than rehabbing or demolishing the original site," he said.

Jesenovec said in a later interview the trustees bought the house before he was hired.

“The day the owner put it on the market, (Trustee) Joe Cindric saw it go up for sale. The trustees jumped on it,” the chief said June 17.

The sale price was $170,000 for the 1,728-square-foot structure on 0.2 acres, according to the Geauga County Auditor’s Office website. It was purchased Jan. 29, 2024.

“When the house went up for sale, it was in pretty good shape,” Jesenovec said. “There were a few things we had to do.

The old barn needed to be demolished so a two-car garage could be built for the department’s cruisers, he said. New doors and locks were installed.

Much of the furniture and equipment was recently moved to the new locale, he added.

“We got a lot done. We’ve got boxes of stuff all over the place,” the chief said.

That includes file boxes holding citations and other documents going back decades, he said, adding he will have to sort through them and dispose of them in the appropriate manner.

“We have boxes of records — tickets going back to 1976 — and a couple of open homicide cases from a number of years ago. We can’t dispose of them,” Jesenovec said. “Evidence is our biggest challenge.”

The township will have to get court approval to dispose of evidence from old cases, some from the mid-1990s, the chief said, adding one advantage to the new building is the evidence lock-up is much larger than he had at the previous location.

The first floor of the new building will house areas for patrol, training and interviewing space while the township zoning inspector and fiscal officer will have offices on the second floor, Jesenovec said.

An open house is planned for after the parade July 4, but the times have not been

mittee, at township park gazebo. All meetings are held at Township Hall, 9949 Mentor Road, unless otherwise noted.

Chester Township: June 19, 7 p.m., Zoning Commission; June 26, 7 p.m., Park District, review of 2025 park budget, at CGA Accounting, 7840 Mayfield Road; June 27, 6:30 p.m., Board of Trustees. All meetings are held at the Township Hall, 12701 Chillicothe Road, unless otherwise noted.

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

Hambden Township: June 20, 6:30 p.m., Board of Trustees. All meetings are held at the Town Hall, 13887 GAR Highway, unless otherwise noted.

Montville Township: June 26, 7 p.m., Board of Zoning Appeals; June 27, 7:30 p.m., Zoning Commission. All meetings held at the Montville Community Center, 9755 Madison

decided, he said.

The previous police headquarters and town hall had structural problems and some black mold where the roof had leaked, he said.

A new owner will have to decide if it is worth renovating or should be torn down, he said.

In other news:

• Thompson Township Fire Chief Dorothy Battles swore in firefighter Mike Taraba;

• Trustees approved a resolution to advance $20,000 from the township’s fire fund to its SAFER fund;

• Trustees approved first-half fire sti-

Road, unless noted.

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

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

Russell Township: June 20, 7 p.m., Board of Trustees; June 26, 7 p.m., Zoning Commission. All meetings are held at Russell Town Hall, 14890 Chillicothe Road, unless otherwise noted.

South Russell Village: June 20, 7:30 p.m., Planning Commission. All meetings are held at Village Hall, 5205 Chillicothe Road, unless otherwise noted.

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

West Geauga BOE: June 22, 7 p.m., regular meeting. (NOTE change of date). All meetings are held at the BOE Community Room, 8615 Cedar Road, unless otherwise noted.

pends totaling $15,294 for 15 members;

• Big North Band will be playing the first concert of the season from 7-8:30 p.m. June 11 on Thompson Square;

• The Fourth of July parade will begin at Hemley Hardware Store at 11 a.m. and will go around the square, Jesenovic said. "People that move away come back just for that day,” Leffel added. “It's more of a homecoming, as well as being a fourth of July celebration.

Freelance writer Connor Ball contributed to this article.

karlovec group

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

Clay Karlovec, Sales Representative

Clinton Sestak, 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 legal notices and questions to legalads@geaugamapleleaf.com.

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

Subscription Rates (valid through 12/31/24)

Weekly Issue (in Geauga County)

One year: $55 • Two years: $100 Senior Citizens one year: $50 Single copy: $1.25

Weekly Issue (outside Geauga County)

One year: $65 • Two years: $120 Weekly Issue (snowbird/seasonal address) One year: $65

Online Only (No Mailed Copy) $55 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 © 2024 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.

Chardon BOE Honors Businesses, Welcomes New Admins

By amy Patterson amy@Karlovecmedia.com

The Chardon Schools Board of Education honored four local businesses with nomina tions to the Ohio School Boards Association’s Business Honor Roll during their meeting June 17.

“This is a program offered through the (OSBA) where school districts can recognize business leaders and businesses that have made a significant contribution to the school community,” Superintendent Michael Han lon said.

First up for recognition was Dumpster Bandit, LLC, owned by Caitlyn and Mark Horvath. Hanlon said the pair are regular supporters of Chardon Schools through their business and recently donated $1,000 to the Chardon Middle School teacher wish list.

“This generous donation will help to pur chase a sublimation printer and cricut supplies for the school's digital media classes,” he said.

Dumpster Bandit also volunteered as one of over 30 career speakers during a Careers on Wheels event held for first-through-third grades this spring.

Justin Wehr, store manager at Heinen’s Chardon location, received honors for hosting job training for students with disabilities, including providing on-the-job skills learning and experience.

Hornyak Farms, LLC, was honored for the contributions of owners Leigh and Matthew Hornyak, with assistants Kate and Evan Hornyak present to receive the award.

The family-owned farm specializes in ag-

ricultural tourism and hosted the Fall Fun Festival for Park Elementary School families last September.

Finally, Scott Mihalic, of Mihalic Associates & Auctioneers, LLC, was honored for a $3,000 donation to Jeremy’s Kids, a holiday gift drive put on annually by the Chardon High School Actively Caring for People club.

“The donation significantly assisted the initiative's ability to fulfill gift wish lists for local families in need,” Hanlon said. “We want to thank Scott Mihalic for his support of Chardon High School and Jeremy’s Kids.”

Later in the meeting, CHS Principal Adam Tomco, who was appointed to the role last month, introduced his two new assistant principals for the 2024-25 school year.

The first, Christina Sherwood, sits on the West Geauga Schools Board of Education and has an extensive background in English Language Arts, Tomco said, adding throughout the lengthy interview process, she came across as intelligent and confident.

“I'm thrilled to be here,” she told the board. “The interview process, as thorough

as it was, was super invigorating. I was really excited to be a part of it.”

A second assistant principal, Ed Yeomans, comes from Painesville City Schools, Tomco said, where he was an elementary principal. Yeomans has two children at Chardon Middle School, and 22 years of experience teaching English Language Arts and Latin.

Yeomans said since moving here in 2015, he’s been really excited to be part of the community.

“I’m proud to now live and work within this community,” he said. “I am very excited to bring what I can to the stories that we write here. It's a pretty fantastic place.”

With Tomco’s move to CHS, a new principal was needed at CMS. Craig Caroff, formerly of Mayfield City Schools, will step into the role. Caroff brought with him a special guest, his 3-year-old son, Leo, who shared high-fives and fist bumps with the board.

“I’m so excited to be here in Chardon,” he said. “From the moment that I walked in here during the interview process, I could tell right away that this is a fantastic place. The people in the community here are something special and I'm really excited to be a part of that.”

In an update on multiple construction projects being undertaken during the summer, Hanlon said the city gave the district a “stop-work order” after deciding the scope of excavation on a property set to become a new bus garage and administrative offices had exceeded the district’s permits.

“Right now, we're working with the city to address these concerns,” he said. “We believe that everything that's been done so far has been within the scope of demolition and hopefully, this is simply a misunderstanding.”

questioned if more than massage services were given at the spa. None of the men were detained or arrested.

Armed with a search warrant signed by Chardon Municipal Court Judge Terri Stupica, law enforcement entered the spa at approximately 8:30 a.m. June 12.

“We did execute a search warrant with the Geauga County Sheriff’s Office,” Sherwood said. “There were no arrests made. Two adult women were questioned as part of our investigation.”

The women, who did not speak English, and are believed to be Chinese nationals, Flaiz said, adding authorities believe the women were working and living at the spa.

He explained a representative from the U.S. Department of Homeland Security was present with an interpreter to help interview the women.

In addition, a person from the Harriet In addition, a person from the Harriet Tubman Movement, which works with victims of sex trafficking, was on scene to provide support, Flaiz said.

Also present was Nicholas Burling, chief assistant prosecutor for the criminal division.

Zoning from page 1

“It’s a rather large parcel next to (Geauga Concrete),” he said, adding the next concerns revolve around access using the private Industry Drive off Madison or creating a curb cut onto East High.

Mayor Ben Garlich said a warehouse exceeding 750,000 square feet is being planned to accommodate product storage at Diversified Plastics Inc., formerly Dillen Properties LTD, at 16455 East High Street.

“It’s a very large conglomerate. (The warehouse) guarantees the business will be here for a long time,” he said, adding the facility would employ more than 100 workers. The commission voted in favor of the lot consolidation if the village engineer approves it.

Developers of the proposed Smallwood subdivision requested an easement from the village for two retention basins, one on either end of the 24-home, cul-de-sac off South State Avenue.

Commission member Jim Linberg noted the residential development would be adjacent to The Middlefield Industrial Complex operated by Third Dimension Inc., which is a super fund site, making the parcel to the north questionable for residential development. A pump-and-treat program has been processing the contaminated groundwater there.

Originally known as the Geauga Company, the site was occupied by Carlisle Engineered Products when the Ohio Environmental Protection Agency first became aware of the contamination more than 20 years ago.

TDI has maintained the clean-up operation of chemicals tetrachloroethylene, dichloroethane and trichloroethylene found contaminating the property by the USEPA in the 1980s and 1990s, according to “While the EPA Slept,” by Sarah Fenske, published in The Cleveland Scene in 2001.

The pump-and-treat program has been processing the contaminated groundwater since 2002, according to the Ohio EPA. The process was expected to take about 50 years to clear all the contaminants from the water

ing employees at the spa.

Flaiz emphasized the investigation is ongoing and there may be charges brought in

and make it potable.

In 2021, TDI started a bio remediation process where certain chemicals are injected into the site to supercharge bacteria that will break down the contaminants into methane gas, according to previous reporting.

Linberg said he believes when the trees are taken down and basements are dug for the single-family homes north of the TDI site, the contamination could become a problem.

He also said children living in the development might trespass on the TDI property and be affected by any residual contamination.

“I don’t think that’s related to the development of a separate site,” said village solicitor Luke McConville. “We can get information from the EPA on the status of the cleanup. It’s not going to affect their drinking water – it’s not the source of (the development’s) drinking water.”

The village water system is supplied by wells north of the village.

“TDI just put in a big addition. They would know if there was a problem,” said commission Chairman Scott Klein.

“I don’t think they have the same concerns,” Linberg added. “It’s still listed as a super fund site.”

McConville said the owners of the Smallwood property have a right to market their property.

“There is no evidence the Smallwood site is a contaminated site,” he said.

Linberg said a current status of the ground under the development site should be required and noted there are underground springs in the area causing water to bubble up in his own yard to the south of the proposed development.

“We ought to mandate it be tested before we start tearing up trees and digging basements,” he said.

Garlich said the TDI site is being remediated at great expense to the owners.

Commission member Dave Dietrich noted the issue of a stormwater easement for the stormwater retention basins was the matter before the commission.

Linberg cast the single “no” vote and the easement was approved.

Dhang, doing business as Ocean Spa, Inc., signed the lease with the estate, according to township records.

On March 26, Guo signed and submitted a general use application with the township for Ocean Spa to operate a business in a commercial district, Purchase said. The application listed the company’s corporate address as 149-45 Northern Blvd., #2 West, Flushing, N.Y. Guo also signed a $150 check for the application fee.

Purchase, who spent his entire 35-year ca-

reer as a police officer in Chester, including 16 years as chief of police, was involved in the

Residents in the area had complained about the spa and its customers for several months.

Authorities monitored the Silver Spa looking for evidence to confirm rumors that a person could get more than a massage there. The day before the raid, officials questioned seven “repeat customers” as they left the spa. Several of the customers told police the spa offered sex for money along with the massages.

Months earlier, Chester Township Trustees passed legislation demanding massage businesses be licensed.

Auburn Township

Trustees, Auditor Plan to Return $700,000 to Taxpayers

By ann Wishart ann@Karlovecmedia com

Auburn Township will be paying back to property owners about $700,000 to make up for three years the township was collecting on a road levy voters never legally approved.

Geauga County Auditor Chuck Walder reviewed with trustees the reasons for the tax refunds and the process through which his office would assist township officials at the trustees’ June 17 meeting.

Auburn Township voters approved a 1-mill, five-year roads and bridges replacement levy in 2005, which was renewed in 2010 and 2015, Walder said.

In 2019, clerical errors were made in the process of placing the levy on the ballot, he said. Township officials and county department personnel did not catch the mistake and the levy was erroneously reported as passing

and showed up on property owners’ tax bills. About $200,000 was collected by the county per year and passed on to the township in 2021, 2022 and 2023, Walder said.

Refusing to “throw anyone under the bus,” Walder called the failure of several governmental entities to catch the mistake an anomaly.

“I shoulder one-quarter of the blame,” he said, adding the attorney for the Geauga County Board of Elections reviewed data from the last few years and discovered the problem last year.

It apparently stemmed from the board of trustees’ intent to run the levy a year early, which is an accepted practice, but the actual documentation was wrongly annotated.

“The total magnitude is a little less than $700,000,” Walder said. “We owe the taxpayers back that money, so we have to follow a practice embedded in the Ohio Re-

vised Code (clerical errors and taxes section 319.36). I would like to help you find a path through this. We are in this for the long haul.”

As prescribed by the ORC, Walder told the board of review about the error and has continued to explore the numerous steps needed to set the matter right.

Rather than have the township gut its road budget to pay the money back, he recommended officials seek a loan for about $750,000.

Because of the property re-evaluation last year, the township is getting about $280,000 a year in inside millage, which is enough to pay off the loan, Walder explained.

Taxpayers are owed interest on the monies they paid and the final amounts need to be calculated over the next months, he said.

Crunching the numbers and cutting checks is a time-consuming project, so it is

being outsourced, he added.

The $30,000 contract would be covered by the county auditor’s office, which would verify the contractor’s findings, Walder said. The firm would also track down individuals who sold their property during or after that time period and the estates of taxpayers who passed away.

If searches are unsuccessful, the money would go into the unclaimed funds coffers, he said. Anyone who bought a home in 2023 would not be getting a refund because those taxes were paid in prior years.

“How long is this going to take? That’s a lot of records to go through,” said Trustee Mike Troyan.

Walder said he thinks the issue could be wrapped up by the end of 2024.

“We don’t want to hoodwink the taxpayers,” Walder said. “When we make a mistake, we have to fix it.”

West G Parent Addresses Bullying, Behavior Concerns

By allison Wilson editor@Karlovecmeda com

A concerned parent raised the issue of unaddressed bullying on a school bus at the West Geauga Schools Board of Education meeting June 10.

“I have a son in West Geauga Schools, he’s going into third grade,” said Mike Jaszkewicz. “And through kindergarten, first, second, there were bullies on Bus 31. This past year, there were ringleaders of third-, fourthand fifth-graders causing trouble on the bus to the point that there’s profanity yelled outside the windows in the bus.”

Jaszkewicz said his son told him about students “cussing out” the bus driver.

Fireworks from page 1

the last Chardon fireworks show, as they are ready to retire.

They reminded the public the show is run by volunteers, not by the city.

“We're running a zero budget this year. … I usually have a carryover (fund),” Jevnikar said. “It’s not the goal this year and we're done.”

After some debate, council unanimously approved the move. Parking will be prohibited along Water Street and Meadowlands Drive during the fireworks show, and Loreto Way will be closed to the public.

Last year, the show was moved to the student parking lot east of CHS. Richard Gahr, who lives near the school on Chardon Avenue, said he was told that move happened because launching from the old spot could void the warranty of the school’s new roof.

Unfortunately, the student lot location led to some serious problems for the neighborhood.

“Last year, my entire yard was inundated with pieces of fireworks,” Gahr said. “I brought some of them to (Chardon City Manager Randy) Sharpe, who saw them, and some were as big as baseballs.”

Gahr said one firework landed on the son of a neighbor, who uses a wheelchair.

Mayor Chris Grau said the city listened to Gahr after the event last year and after extensive planning and research, found an area east of the CHS tennis courts in which fireworks could be set off without causing similar

“What I wonder is, when someone is reprimanded in writing five times in a school year, why are they still on the bus?” he asked the board.

Jaszkewicz also expressed concern about the impact the district’s consolidation might have on these issues.

West Geauga has been seeking to consolidate their campus for a number of years, with plans taking a step forward in January with the school board approving the grades six-12 plan. The recommendation at the January meeting was for a new middle-high school building, as well as the renovation of the existing middle school into a pre-kindergarten-fifth-grade building.

“If you can’t keep order on a simple bus,

how can you expect to protect younger kids from the problems of high school kids on the same square?” he asked.

Jaszkewicz said he has talked to two bus drivers, one retiring and one current, and was told there wasn’t support.

“If I understand my knowledge correctly, you folks rebated some money on a mill levy back to the taxpayers. That’s about $100-$150 in a year. That doesn’t even buy a tank of gas for my truck,” he said. “I would’ve rather you spent all that money to hire more drivers and to put bus monitors on every single bus.”

Board President Christina Sherwood responded she was unaware of the issues, but would contact the transportation department to figure out what was going on and what po-

problems for surrounding residents.

But, Babcock and Jevnikar pointed out a major problem with the new location — it sits at a lower elevation than the show’s previous location, which was already lower than past shows.

“You’re saying (it’s) a little bit of a difference, but the shell goes to 210 (feet),” Babcock said. “At over 100 feet lower than where we shot it in the past, that's half the height.”

Jevnikar said the new location will be visible by the whole city, due to its elevation, whereas the proposed CHS location might

Chardon Fireworks

New Location

Saturday, July 6th

Dusk Fireworks will be set off on Loreto Way (Meadowlands Ext.). Water Street leading into that area will be closed and no parking is permitted.

Rain date: July 7

make the fireworks difficult to see, even from Chardon Square.

Some members of council were reluctant to lose the traditional CHS location where, during previous shows at the high school, boosters sold concessions before the fireworks began, but Jevnikar said attendance has waned in recent years.

Council members also expressed concern about public confusion, as the area is slated for a new housing development, as well as a new Meijer — meaning, if the fireworks show continues under new volunteers, it will likely

tential solutions they had.

Board member Kathy Leavenworth took a moment to address Jaszkewicz’s concerns about younger and older students mixing, noting it was never the plan to have them all in one building.

“The kids would still be on separate buses,” she told him.

Jaszkewicz responded his concern is with creating an environment that would cause “a possible Sandy Hook situation,” referring to the 2012 mass school shooting in Newtown, Conn., that killed 20 children and six adults.

“If you had one gun brought to the high school, you have to assume that it’s an extreme danger that someone would reach to that level,” he said.

not be held in the same location next year.

Council member Heather Means asked whether organizers had connected with management or residents of Chardon Place Apartments or the Chardon Healthcare Center, which both have frontage along Water Street across from Loreto Way.

Police Chief Scott Niehus said if either property wants to discourage members of the public from setting up on their lawns to watch the shows, they will need to post signs.

With the new site at a significantly higher elevation than previous years, Jevnikar and Babcock were confident the show would be visible from across the city.

Closer viewing could be possible in the nearby Walmart parking lot, Babcock added.

“(Jevnikar) did talk to the manager there. She said, ‘Fabulous, we can use all the traffic we can get.’ So she was happy with it,” Babcock said.

Earlier in the meeting, Grau addressed public feedback about the proposed Meijer store, after Law Director Ben Chojnacki said the city can regulate the use of property through zoning laws.

However, it cannot limit what an owner does within those laws, outside of potential risks to health or safety, Chojnacki said.

The city did not “reach out” to Meijer, Grau said, but does employ an economic development consultant firm, Retail Strategies.

“As long as they fall into place on all the regulations that we have and the correct use, then you don't really have the ability to deny them,” he explained.

Geauga County Officials Celebrate Flag Day

By rose nemunaitis editor@Karlovecmedia

As the grand old flag waved with patriotic pride outside Geauga County’s historic court house on Chardon Square, several county of ficials celebrated Flag Day June 14.

The Geauga County Republican Party hosted its annual Flag Day event at The Rook ery’s Great Blue Heron Lodge in Chester Township with special guest speaker Lt. Gov. Jon Husted and Republican Ohio Supreme Court Justice nominee Judge Megan Shana han in attendance.

“It is a pleasure to be back in Geauga County for Flag Day and what it means in the world today,” Husted said. “The flag has meant different things to our country in dif ferent times. It’s always been a symbol, a ral lying point for the cause of freedom. To me, that’s what it means. Not just for us, but for people around the world.”

In U.S. Congress’ 1976 revision of the Flag Code, it was stated the U.S. flag is con sidered a living symbol representing a living country — added in response to Americans’ strong feelings of respect and reverence for the flag.

Retired Navy veteran Glen Vernick, Geauga County buildings and grounds director, has been taking care of the county courthouse flag for 17 years and calls it a great privilege.

“That is something that I respect very much,” Vernick said, as he stood outside the courthouse June 14 amid blue skies and a scattering of clouds.

First established in 1916, the day celebrates the adoption of the American flag.

“On Flag Day, we officially celebrate the birth of our American Flag, the flag should be displayed on this day,” Geauga County Sheriff Scott Hildenbrand said. “I display a lighted flag at my home year-round because I think it is important to show our support for the United States. Many people have fought and died to protect it.”

Retired Navy veteran Stacie Malone, of Geauga County Veterans Service Office, said when she sees the flag, it represents being an American, freedom, war time, sad times and some of the nation’s greatest joys and victories.

“When it waves so proudly, it captures the power of our great nation,” Malone said. “I served our country along with many before

me and after me, and there is nothing greater than seeing our flag in a foreign country to know you’re safe and home.”

Nancy McArthur, Geauga County Repub lican Party chair, started the county GOP’s annual event a few years ago, coordinating with Lake County GOP to share the same guest speakers.

Attendees last Friday dined on pulled pork and chicken inside the rustic building as a scattering of political signs dotted the entrance.

“I think it has gotten more popular to fly the U.S. flag since 9/11,” McArthur said. “We all remember how the U.S. flag was hard to find in stores because everyone wanted one to show their support of our country. The flag is a uniting symbol of who we are as Ameri cans, and we need to display it often and cel ebrate it every day.”

The event began with a prayer from Geau ga County Commissioner Jim Dvorak.

“We thank you for the flag that flies around our nation,” Dvorak said.

Husted shook hands and mingled before speaking to the guests.

For centuries, the U.S. flag has represented the American spirit, he said.

“Essentially, the flag is a symbol of service and sacrifice and when we honor the flag — that symbol of freedom, patriotism, sacri-

fice, commitment — we are honoring all who served,” Husted said. “That’s why we should always hold up our flag as a symbol of free-

dom and sacrifice, for all those who came before us. It’s honoring their memories and the great gift of freedom they’ve given us.”

S. Russell to Wait a Bit Longer for Permanent Restrooms in Park

By sherry Gavanditti editor@Karlovecmedia com

With cost-savings and the environment in mind, South Russell Village’s newsletter is going digital.

After the July issue, the village’s newsletter will be offered quarterly, in digital-format only, unless requested otherwise, South Russell Village Council members announced during their June 10 meeting.

Anyone who will not be able to access it digitally may stop in or call for a paper copy, said Mayor Bill Koons, who suggested printing at least one more issue, as it is better to wean residents from receiving a hard copy.

In other village business, council approved an ordinance to lease portable restroom facilities and services for upcoming events — sponsored by and located at the

South Russell Village Police Department — while officials continue to search for funding for a permanent solution to onsite restroom facilities at North Park.

Council agreed it would be best to obtain a grant to install permanent facilities, which could cost upward of $150,000 by the time the project moves forward, however, it would take as long as late summer of next year to apply for a grant, and obtaining monies "is not guaranteed," said Eric Haibach, village engineer from CT Consultants.

The project won’t move forward until next year, but a $1,000 cap was placed on hiring an outside contractor to explore grant opportunities, Koons added.

Seventeen year-old Jake Evans, who approached council back in April regarding an Eagle Scout project involving the village, further elaborated on his planned project, which

would entail installing three signs at South Russell Park to include information about its trails and their distances for park goers.

"The signs would be weatherproof," Evans sad.

Council members lauded the idea.

During the meeting, Council also approved the following measures:

• An amended ordinance authorizing the

use of village funds to reimburse village officials’ and employees’ food and drink expenditures at certain events hosted by or for the village;

• Transferring up to $10,824.00 from the income tax fund to deferred benefits and up to $33,000 to the safety fund;

• Amended the annual appropriations, increasing deferred benefits expenses $10,824.

Health member Carolyn Brakey.

The Big Question

Big question: Is it the "Maple Highlands Trail" or "Maple Highlands Road?"

Last week, when I was walking along the MHT south of Middlefield a big Geauga Park District tractor with a brush hog assembly on the side was mowing not only the grass and flowers on the trail side, but trees and brush often 15 or 20 feet on either side of the asphalt. I asked the operator if they really needed to clear vegetation so far off the side of the trail and he stated he was told to do so.

My understanding is the trail going through Middlefield is owned by the village but maintained by the park district. Many of us enjoy walking the trail, enjoying the beautiful wildflowers and birds along the way. Now much of that is gone. I've personally found several bird nests of increasingly threatened field nesting species this spring on the ground among the grasses and flowers. Most were destroyed by the mower doing this work in the middle of the nesting season. This sort of activity wastes public funds the park district could be using for other purposes instead of polluting the air with diesel fumes, sending more carbon dioxide into the air to add to global warming, and destroying wild things.

The big question is where is the brain of Director John Oros, who directs this sort of thing to go on? I called him last week and left a message but have yet to have my call returned — not surprising.

Park districts were enabled back in the last century by the general assembly because of the disappearance of natural areas and biodiversity, but certainly not to turn trails into roads and destroy the wild. It seems Director Oros has never read this legislation or does not care. Did Director Oros bother to consult with the park biologist or the parks natural resource management before this destruction? Unlikely, as it would be hard to believe that the park biologist would approve what was done. Maybe Oros does not care what the park biologist thinks.

Letters to the Editor

This sort of activity on the part of the park district administration is just part of a continuing pattern of not caring that much about protecting biodiversity and instead prioritizing huge spending on expensive flagpoles, advertising and the like.

When the City of Akron logged the east side of East Branch Reservoir last year, part of Geauga's Headwaters Park and a designated "wildlife sanctuary — no admittance" by a past park biologist, it appears no effort was made by the park director to prevent this desecration. The purchase of a conservation easement would have done the trick. Oros called this trashing of part of the park "management." What comes next John Oros, maybe clear-cutting Big Creak Park and calling that "management."

Frankly, nothing will change until the park district gets a new director appointed by park commissioners the majority of who really care about preserving natural areas and biodiversity. Of course, that means a new probate judge who is charged with appointing those commissioners and that, indeed, is up to you folks.

So sad!

John G. Augustine Parkman Township

Beautiful Place to Live

We were traveling west on Route 422 at approx. 6:30 a.m. when, coming eastbound, a large box truck emerged with a cloud of green leaves and twigs. As it passed, we saw a mass of leaves along with a large branch with other smaller branches completely blocking the eastbound lane and partially covering our westbound lane.

This occurred about a quarter mile east of the large Great Lakes Cheese plant, which is a two-lane road at that point. The eastbound lane was stopped with several vehicles behind the branches on the road. Our westbound lane was also stopped.

Our crew van stopped behind 5-6 vehicles ahead of us. As we came to a stop, three men

came out of the first vehicle in our westbound lane and proceeded to move the debris off the road. One of our crew jumped out and helped to clear both lanes. Traffic on both lanes then continued on their way. I estimate the entire time to clear the road and continue was 30-45 seconds.

We've lived in beautiful Geauga County for 50 years and have always admired the friendliness and kindness of the people here. Geauga is beautiful in many ways. Thank for allowing me to express my appreciation of all the folks who live around here.

Bob Ryan & Crew Chardon

Quality Newspaper

Just a quick note to thank you for maintaining the quality of your paper. Each issue contains stories of significant local interest — you are making good choices in covering them and your writers are providing intelligent and informative presentations.

I can’t say that I wait for each issue with bated breath, but I do make a point to quickly collect the Thursday mail and generally immediately take the time to read one — and generally more — articles of particular interest. Frequently, the issues associated with articles are new to me, so the paper is filling a personal information gap.

Again, thanks. Well done.

Bill Jackson City of Chardon

YES/NO to SB 243

We read the following on FortifyGeauga.org:

“Last year, Ohio Senate President Matt Huffman directed the Ohio Senate to form a Select Committee on Housing. After their fact finding, the Select Committee determined ‘township zoning rights are an impediment to Ohio’s housing development.’

“Statewide, 38% of Ohioans reside in townships. Here in Geauga County, it is 87%, which means Geauga County has a great deal

to lose if this committee targets township zoning authority.

“Some parts of Ohio do appear to need more housing stock to keep up with development, notably the areas near Columbus, which are struggling to accommodate the new Intel plant awaiting construction and other impending projects, but many are sounding the alarm that the findings and future actions of the Select Committee on Housing will seek to apply broad regulations to the whole state that are neither necessary nor appropriate for every area.

“Attendees at the Planning Commission meeting expressed concern that the local government of 87% of Geauga County’s residents might be stripped of zoning authority to help solve a problem in Columbus.”

As residents of Chester Township, we are concerned at this report issued by the Ohio Senate Select Committee on Housing and the creation of SB 243, “Declare intent to address local zoning that impedes housing.” SB 243 is designed to strip all Ohio townships of their control of the zoning authority of their respective township. If this bill is written into law, the State of Ohio will dictate all zoning issues in our townships, which includes Geauga County!

We are not warning you of what your opinion of this should be. Our intent is to encourage you to contact our Ohio senators and representatives and tell them your opinion as to whether you are or are not in favor of giving up your zoning rights to the state. Consider emailing those listed below with your preference. Sample email subject line: “NO to SB 243” or “YES to SB 243.” It is important this be your subject line.

Senate President Matt Huffman (R-12); Sen. Jerry Cirino (R-18); Sen. Sandra O’Brien (R-32); Sen. Vernon Sykes (D-28); Speaker of the House Jason Stephens (R-93); Rep. Sarah Fowler Arthur (R-99); Rep. Steve Demetriou (R-35); Governor Mike DeWine.

George and Candice Minello

Chester Township

Founding Fathers

A sign in front of a law firm on Chillicothe Road mocks our system of justice, stating, “The Founding Fathers were all found guilty by the government.”

An appellate judge might recognize 1) that the prosecution supported Trump felony charges with hard evidence, and 2) Robert Costello’s defense claims were obliterated when his nefarious approach was revealed in electronic messages.

As a historical note, George Washington was widely respected by Britons, called out as a “quintessential English-American gentleman.”

Mark Fagerholm

Bainbridge Township

Letters to the Editor

The Maple Leaf welcomes readers’ letters on matters of public interest.They should be original and not exceed 500 words, although longer letters occasionally will be printed. Letters should include the writer’s name, street address, and daytime phone number. Due to space limitations, not all letters can be printed or acknowledged. Email your letters to editor@karlovecmedia.com

County Budget Stretched, but Solid

By amy Patterson amy@Karlovecmedia.com

Expenses in county departments continue to rise, Budget and Finance Manager Adrian Gorton said June 11 during the Geauga County Commissioners’ regular meeting.

In a presentation, which summarized individual department 2025 budget meetings held over previous weeks, Gorton said expenses outpacing revenue is not unusual, adding the county’s carryover balances, which are sufficient to cover costs, were not calculated into charts he displayed to commissioners.

“We’ve had a fairly steady increase in revenue. Expenses have kept pace, too,” he said. “You see, some of these years … like 2019, 2021, where expenses exceed revenue, those were times when we were beginning to prepare for (building) not only this (county administrative) building, but the courthouse expansion.”

Money for those projects was set aside from surplus funds, he said.

While the county’s general fund revenue is projected to be around $47 million, Gorton said expenses are estimated to be a little over $49.5 million, leaving about a $2.4 million deficit.

There is no cause for panic, however, as the numbers included large increases for the specific building projects mentioned, he said.

Gorton noted increases in court and coroner budgets, as well as a state-mandated increase in Prosecutor Jim Flaiz’s wage.

The state’s reimbursement for that salary is also going down next year, he said.

The prosecutor’s office requested a 12% increase for 2025, while costs in the maintenance department are expected to increase around 30%, according to Gorton’s presentation, which showed possible cuts include around $500,000 from payroll, over $700,000 on contracts and $1.75 million in equipment costs.

During commissioners’ June 18 meeting, Commissioner Tim Lennon expressed concerns over requests to increase administrative salaries in some county departments.

“If we’re collecting too much revenue, the conversation (should) be, ‘How are we getting the money back to the residents of this county,’ right?” he said. “That’s the conversa-

tion, not, ‘How much money can we spend?’”

The county has been fortunate, Lennon said, adding, however, he has concerns about the impact of rising revenues in future years.

“I know there's been this trend, you know, from say the budget commission, talking to townships and even to the county to spend, spend, spend, right? Spend it, spend it off. You got it, spend it,” Lennon said. “But, you know, everybody's kind of fat and happy right now.”

One complaint revolved around a request from County Treasurer Chris Hitchcock, who Lennon said texted him asking to support a proposed raise for Caroline Mansfield, his chief deputy.

Both Lennon and Commissioner Ralph Spidalieri lamented recent requests for large increases in administrative wages, even as both agreed Mansfield deserved the raise.

Spidalieri — in response to Gorton’s comment that Hitchcock was currently out of the country and, therefore, unable to attend the meeting — said Mansfield is truly the county’s treasurer.

“The reality is, he’s totally out of touch because he’s got a good employee like (Mansfield) that has run cover for him all the time and pretty much runs the office,” he said. “She, as far as I’m concerned, is the treasurer of this county, not Chris, because she really pays attention to what's going on and does a great job there.”

Planning Commission Tables Bus Garage Plans – Again

By allison Wilson editor@Karlovecmedia com

Chardon Planning Commission once again pushed back approval of concept plans for a school bus garage on Washington Street at a special meeting June 11, citing an insuffi cient traffic study for their hesitation.

“There were some outstanding items with planning commission at the last meet ing,” Community Development Administrator Steve Yaney said, recapping how the commis sion had approved seven of eight requested variances and rejected a variance asking to waive a requirement for 5% of the parking lot to be landscaped.

Outstanding items were the (light ing)lighting plan — which Yaney deemed in order — the landscaping and the traffic im pact study.

“We did receive what I would classify as an executive summary of traffic canals,” City Engineer Doug Courtney said.

The study, which was reviewed by traffic engineer Kevin Westbrooks, did not contain enough background data and background calculations, Courtney said. As such, West brooks was unable to verify the conclusions.

“In their response letter, ThenDesign in dicated that a full version of that traffic study is forthcoming,” Courtney said. “I’m not sure when that will be here, but we’ve had that discussion with them, as well, that we need a full traffic impact study with time to review it before the next meeting.”

SUBMITTED

Both commission Chair Andrew Blackley and Courtney agreed the applicant had not met the requirement to provide an acceptable traffic impact study.

The commission briefly discussed the contents of what they had been given.

“Some turn lanes might be required, especially at Fifth (Avenue) and North Street,” Blackley said. “Another solution there would be to put a traffic signal at Fifth and North at some point in the future.”

Another solution could be to put in stop signs.

“The other interesting thing that did come up was that much of the impact of traffic, of the existing traffic network as it is today, appears to be due to morning and afternoon traffic traveling to the school,” Blackley said, noting the intersection at Fifth and North is currently running lower service than normal.

“This impact of adding additional buses there might have some additional degradation, as well,” he said.

Westbrooks had said he did not receive a copy of the bus transportation plan, Blackley added.

“We have all the bus data from the district that we forwarded to our traffic engineers, so they took those into account,” said Jeff Henderson, of ThenDesign Architecture. “I didn’t know I would need to distribute it to everybody.”

Blackley said he was not ready to approve the concept plans without an acceptable traffic analysis.

Henderson confirmed one can be submitted in time for it to be reviewed before the regular meeting June 25.

Landscaping Updates

In terms of landscaping, the commission previously approved a variance waiving a requirement for end islands in the parking area with the understanding there would be further landscaping to make up for it, Yaney said.

“Kind of the direction that was given would be to try and beef up the landscaped areas around the outside edges of the parking lot,” he said.

With this direction, an additional 14 trees would be installed along the islands on the north side of the parking lot and along the south row of the drive aisle south of the parking field. Yaney said landscaping on the south side would prove challenging as that is also where snow will be piled in the winter.

Commission members expressed confusion regarding the 5% landscaping requirement.

“My interpretation of the regulation is that the impervious areas of the parking lot would be reduced by 5% and replaced with landscaping,” Blackley said. “I don’t see that that’s been done.”

“It has not,” Yaney replied, adding at

the previous meeting, several commission members indicated they would be fine with additional landscaping along the edges rather than islands in the middle.

Blackley responded the requirement was for 5% landscaping in the parking area.

“Five percent landscaping or doing landscaping outside of the parking area would not reduce the impervious pavement,” he said. “To me, it is not in compliance with (the) 5% landscaping (requirement) in the parking lot.”

Vice Chair Mary Jo Stark said she would be fine with landscaping along the edges rather than in central islands, as the buses may damage the trees.

“I feel if we waive (the 5% landscaping) requirement, the applicant should be accommodating and provide that 5% or more elsewhere,” she said.

The question of whether or not the parking area could even be considered a parking lot or vehicle storage area was also raised.

“An outdoor vehicle storage area … does not have the landscape requirement interior to it if it’s enclosed, screened on all four sides,” Yaney explained.

While the Washington Street property would not be a public parking lot — such as the ones at Walmart or Home Depot — it is also not fully enclosed, lacking a solid screen wall along one side, he said.

“There’s some very unique characteristics to this parking area that aren’t really present in anything else we have in the city,” Yaney concluded.

Blackey asked Stark if she was satisfied with the firm’s proposal to add additional trees and landscaping to the south side of the parking area and she responded she would like to see a few more trees added.

Following lengthy discussion, the commission agreed a change to the pattern the trees would be planted in would accommodate an additional four more on the south side.

While a motion was not made regarding the parking lot islands, the commission members agreed to the additional landscaping.

The commission voted to table approval of the concept plans in anticipation of the traffic analysis.

An updated landscaping plan shows how ThenDesign Architecture intends to up the number of trees around the property.

Independent Candidate Files Suit against Board of Elections

Justin Tjaden, an Independent candidate for Ohio House District 99, recently filed a Writ of Mandamus in the Ohio Supreme Court and a lawsuit in the Geauga County Court of Common Pleas after the Geauga County Board of Elections re fused to certify his candidacy for the Nov. 5 general election.

“These legal actions are about defending the principles of fair access and equality in our electoral process,” Tjaden said in a June 13 statement. “We must challenge any system that places unjust and discriminatory barri ers in the way of candidates who dare to declare their independence from the Democrat and Republican Uniparty Machine. This fight is for the rights of all Ohioans, but especially those in District 99, to have a gen uine choice in their representation.”

Tjaden was denied a spot on the Novem ber 2024 ballot after falling short of the 494 required signatures required, GCBOE Direc tor Michelle Lane previously said.

tion of his candidacy was based on a flawed interpretation of Ohio election laws and its subsequent actions after rejection violated Tjaden’s due process rights under the U.S. and Ohio Constitutions.

“He submitted 552 (signatures) and 371 were accepted,” Lane said in an April 12 email. “This is for both Geauga and Ashtabula (counties).”

In his lawsuit, which names Lane, Deputy Director Nora McGinnis and all four board members — Chair Dennis Pavella, Joan Windnagel, Janet Carson and Richard Piraino — as well as Ohio Secretary of State Frank LaRose and Ohio Attorney General Dave Yost, among others, Tjaden said he was not informed of the signature threshold until the moment he was submitting his petitions on March 18.

Tjaden disputes the differential treatment regarding signature requirements for independent candidates, who must submit nominating signatures equal to 1% of the total electors in the district while candidates of major political parties are only required to submit 50 signatures. Tjaden said that treatment, coupled with the “opaque and inconsistent verification process,” violates his constitutional rights and those of the voters who seek to support Independent candidates.

The first suit, a petition for a Writ of Mandamus, asks the Ohio Supreme Court to compel the GCBOE to certify Tjaden’s candidacy petitions, according to his press release, adding the case asserts the board’s rejec-

The second suit asserts claims under 42 U.S.C. Section 1983, a federal civil rights law that alleges the actions of individual members of GCBOE and the Ashtabula County Board of Elections — in erroneously acting under the color of Ohio state election laws — deprived Tjaden of his constitutional rights to equal protection, free speech and due process, according to this press release.

The complaint challenges the “disproportionate and discriminatory signature requirements” for Independent candidates, contrasting them with those for major

“We recognized decades ago that the concept of ‘separate but equal’ isn’t acceptable in our education systems,” Tjaden said in a statement. “There is no reason it should be acceptable in our electoral systems.”

For his Section 1983 claim, Tjaden seeks compensatory and punitive damages in excess of $500,000.

“We filed these suits separately because the Geauga board’s rushed and erroneous actions forced me to tackle these issues from multiple angles — procedural errors, statutory interpretation and issues involving the deprivation of constitutional rights. This approach ensures that we address the immediate need to be on the ballot while also fighting for broader changes that will benefit the democratic process in Ohio.”

Tjaden asked the Ohio Supreme Court to expedite the hearing for the Writ of Mandamus. Concurrently, the claims under 42 U.S.C. Section 1983 and declaratory action will proceed in the Geauga County Court of Common Pleas, according to this press release, which added Tjaden is preparing to present evidence in each court with the aim of both securing his candidacy for the 2024 election and advocating for the rights of all voters and candidates.

“I said from the outset that I did not want this to be confrontational,” Tjaden said in a statement. “But, if it’s a fight they want, it’s a fight they’re going to get.”

staff rePort

Tjaden

Geauga Pride

Photos by Bill Fugate / KMG

Chardon Square June 15

Geauga Pride: a Colorful Show of Solidarity

By allison Wilson editor@Karlovecmedia com

Love won once again in Geauga County, with Geauga Pride drawing just over 500 attendees to Chardon Square June 15.

The festival, now in its third year, has grown substantially since its inception, said event organizers.

“We have about double the amount of vendors this year, we have new food trucks that are joining us, we have new kid activities like chalk and painting and crafts,” co-organizer Meg Carver said in an interview June 12.

Fellow organizer Mary Briggs took a moment during the festival’s opening statements to reflect on the long fight for equality and urged attendees to vote and be politically active.

“The Fourteenth Amendment, equal justice under the law, is what gives us our ability to be here, the ability to marry and I oppose the attacks on the LGBTQ community in government, in schools, banning books. And it’s (up to) us to speak out and be active besides having a wonderful day in Geauga County,” she told the crowd.

The event saw live music from Brave and Crazy, as well as two drag shows. Familiar faces took to the stage with returning queens Empress Dupree, Daphne Dupree and Monica Mod, as well as a fresh face in Bia Jewel.

In addition to performance and food, the event sported a raffle, free “mom hugs,” booths dedicated to plants, LGBTQ+ books and a number of churches.

“This year, we have churches who are signing on to be sponsors,” Carver said. “And more churches getting involved to be part of the event instead of standing up against it. So, I think it’s been a really awesome turn to see the community really rally behind these events and show that Geauga County is an inclusive place.”

The pride event is put on by the Community Church of Chesterland. Old South Church of Kirtland was a sponsor and the East Shore Unitarian Church was one of several churches with a booth. Celebration Lutheran Church handed out rainbow bracelets inscribed with Psalm 139:14.

“By the time I was able to contribute and influence events in the church, a pride event was the first thing I wanted to do because it was a gap that I saw in the community, and I saw the dichotomy of people who didn’t think Geauga was an inclusive place, and then all the people I know and love who were inclusive and loving,” Carver recounted.

This year, like every year, saw a small group of religious protestors present, as well.

As the first drag show began, attendees carrying colorful flags, fans and umbrellas formed a barrier between them and the rest of the audience, blocking them from view.

The rainbow rampart drew Empress Dupree’s curiosity, sparking cheers from the crowd as she approached the group.

“I love where you’re standing right there, it’s gorgeous,” she told festival attendees in the line. “Let me read this sign back here. This says ‘June belongs to Jesus.’ What do we think about that?”

She turned her mic to the audience, who booed.

“That is not love!” yelled one attendee. “I am perfectly made!”

The first drag show of the day also featured a lip sync battle to Lady Gaga’s “Born this Way” between two attendees, Abs and Elena, who wished to go by their first names.

Abs took to the performance like a fish to water.

“It was kind of natural to just be up there performing and showing the world, showing the bigots in the back, that there’s nothing wrong with me,” they said.

Despite having to improvise choreography on the spot, Elena said she felt no fear.

“I just went for it. I felt Lady Gaga in me,” she said.

Abs, despite their confidence, found the improvisation somewhat intimidating.

“I was just sort of giving it all of the energy and vibes that I want everyone to feel

“I think it’s important to be seen, espe cially since there’s always protesters every year,” said attendee Andrew Caruso, who is on the board for LGBTQ+ Allies Lake County.

Caruso noted he comes every year in solidarity.

People like August Daugherty also felt the importance of the event.

“I graduated from high school in ’22 as one of the first people to walk at graduation with my name being called as a trans person.

I wore the men’s graduation robes. I was the first to do that. I wore the right uniform for my extracurriculars,” he recounted, calling it re-

finally felt welcome.

“It really has been very positive for people to see that it can happen at home, too, and that they don’t have to drive to the city for (pride),” she said.

Dylan Grieb, who has attended previous years, said he was surprised Geauga started its pride events.

“I (previously) didn’t even know we had a pride because I figured in this town? Never,” he said. “But, I’m so glad that we have a community here and it sucks that people want to come here and bring it down.”

Grieb’s thoughts on the protesters: “They know they’re fighting a losing battle.”

Hickory Rockers Fire up Sizzling Summer Schedule

By rose nemunaitis editor@Karlovecmedia com

Dan Best began listening to 60s rock ‘n’ roll bands, like The Byrds and The Beatles, in grade school, sparking an early interest in taking guitar lessons in fifth grade.

His passion for music endured, eventually taking the form of The Hickory Rockers, a four-member band that performs around Geauga County and Northeast Ohio.

Their broad-based genre draws upon various forms of American roots music, mixing or blending rockabilly, mid-20th century honkytonk country, blues, 50s rock-n-roll and more.

“Making music with other musicians in a band setting is immensely rewarding, especially if there is an audience that enjoys it,” Best said.

The former longtime Geauga Park District naturalist has been creating music alongside other artists throughout his life.

One of Best’s biggest influences was the 1970s California music scene, including Crosby, Stills, Nash & Young, Linda Ronstadt, Warren Zevon and The Grateful Dead, as well as the country-rock music of The Flying Burrito Brothers, The Eagles, Poco, Pure Prairie League, Emmylou Harris and The Nitty Gritty Dirt Band.

As a student at The Ohio State University, Best said he met other musicians of similar musical tastes in the College of Agriculture.

One of his first “gigs” was in an old-time country band called The Alfalfa Weevils, playing guitar behind a fiddler and guitarist at the College of Agriculture’s Poultry Science Club banquet.

The Hickory Rockers 2024 Schedule

June 22:

July 3:

July 11:

July 26:

Aug 1:

Huntsburg Grange Concert

6:00 – 8:00 p.m.

Orwell Village Summer Concert

6:30 – 8:30 p.m.

Concord Twp. Summer Concert

6:00 – 8:00 p.m.

Leleure Vineyards & Winery

6:30 – 9:30 p.m.

The Treelawn 7:30 – 9:30 p.m.

“That same night, Nancy (Best’s future wife) and I had tickets to see our idol, Em mylou Harris and her Hot Band,” Best said.

The Alfalfa Weevils were put off until the end of the banquet, which had a long list of speakers, and Best missed the Emmylou concert.

“Still hurts to this day to think of that empty seat next to Nancy,” he recalled.

For many years while working at Geauga Park District, Best hosted the Maple Town Tune Traders, an informal gathering of singers and musicians — of all musical genres and levels of musicianship — at The West Woods Nature Center in Russell Township.

The Park District’s Denise Wolfe still hosts the gatherings there.

In the late 2000s, he and a friend, Geo Sindelar, formed a blues and roots rock band called The Swamp Rattlers, which continues to play under the leadership of co-founder — and GPD Biologist — Paul Pira.

In 2018, Best formed The Hickory Rock-

ers with Sindelar and members Don Baird and Steve Szilagyi.

Best, of Chardon, plays bass guitar and is a songwriter, while also earning his keep as “de facto” band manager, arranging most of the band’s gigs, housing band practice in his barn or basement, and storing and hauling the sound system.

“It’s a privilege playing music with such talented musicians,” Best said.

Baird, a Chardon native, is the drummer, with many years’ experience of playing in various church service ensembles and, along with his wife, Kathy, in the Great Geauga County Fair Band.

Baird started out with drum lessons at age 10 and played in school bands from elementary through high school.

Sindelar, of Huntsburg, is lead guitar player who also sings lead on a number of songs, as well as harmony to the lead singer’s vocals.

“I’ve always been a fan of pretty much all music,” Sindelar said. “I grew up watching many of the old cartoons that had classical music in the background. My mother enjoyed listening to classical, so those two elements helped send me on my way.”

At a young age, Sindelar discovered Ricky Nelson, Elvis and then a few years later, The Beatles.

“That’s when I found my desire to want to learn the guitar,” he said. “My music search exposed me to heavy metal, Cajun, folk, reggae and everything in between. I never took lessons, just self-taught by listening to the radio and figuring out what I was hearing.”

Sindelar said he owes his opportunity to

be in a band to Best.

“I have been playing guitar since I was about 11, but as I got older, life got too busy and I never could find anyone interested in playing,” Sindelar said.

Szilagyi, of Orange Village, is front man, singing most lead vocals and playing rhythm guitar.

“Steve has a powerfully rich singing voice seldom heard in today's popular music,” Best said. He’s been playing guitar and writing songs since age 14.

“I always liked the sounds of the 1950s and early 60s — the music is full of energy and the thrill of discovery,” Szilagyi said.

The Hickory Rockers have yet to play an indoor show.

“Most wineries and bars go for soft or hard classic rock,” Best said. “However, we have been pleasing audiences with our brand of music among local community events and summer concert series. We hope to make inroads into the Cleveland music scene with venues that showcase original music. We have a unique musical niche and finding audiences is a longer, harder road to success, but ultimately, more satisfying and worth the effort.”

Szilagyi said people seem to like the band’s original songs.

“The Hickory Rockers don't imitate anyone,” Szilagyi said. “Our music grows out of the personalities of the band members. It's an honor for me to know and play with these three gentlemen. I like to think that The Hickory Rockers reflect the nature and beauty of Geauga County — true and down to earth.”

Geauga County and beyond this summer.

tion of the adult program by a group of excep tional individuals.

The Signature Adult Program had 39 participants who live and/or work in Geauga County. Throughout the year, the individuals traveled 381 miles throughout Geauga County, met 134 community leaders and visited 69 organizations.

Class participants included: Jill Adams; Stephanie Anderson, Anderson Legal Services LLC; Sue Aveni; Kelly Baeslach, Geauga County Engineer’s Office; Blaine Becker, Junction Auto Family; Kathleen Bergansky, Bergansky Team Realtors; Alex Berman,

Courtney Erminio, The Middlefield Banking Company; Christie Foran, Kinetico; Valerie Gonzalez, Kent State University Geauga and Twinsburg Academic Center; Lori Kaplan, Eagle Strategies, LLC; Adam Krisby, University Hospitals Geauga Medical Center; Scott Lillash, Russell Township Police Department; Larry Lopez, U.S. Coast Guard; Jim McCaskey, McCaskey Landscape & Design; Sylvia McGee, Bean’s Coffee Shop; Megan McMasters, Arms Trucking; Dawn Mighton, Smylies Commercial Cleaning; Crist Miller, Shawnee Wood Products Inc.; Heather Mountsier,

ANN WISHART/KMG

Parkman Parochial School on Newcomb Road in Parkman Township was demolished in May and a new, larger school for the growing Amish student population is currently being built by an Amish construction crew.

Park District; Trey Simpson, Great Lakes Cheese; Jake Smith, Geauga County Sheriff's

For more information, visit leadershipgeauga.org.

Foundation for Children Holds Fundraiser

Fairmount Arts Center, Learning Cafe Partner Up

Two community-focused Geauga county organizations are joining forces to create a new education center on Chardon Square at 101 Main Street.

The Learning Café, a homeschool enrichment program serving youth ages 3 to 18, and Fairmount Center for the Arts, a performing and visual arts nonprofit organization, will jointly operate the second floor space, said FCA Executive Director Elizabeth Bolander.

The Chardon Area Chamber of Commerce will hold a ribbon-cutting opening event with support from the West Geauga Chamber of Commerce at 5 p.m. July 17.

“I’m deeply grateful for this wonderful opportunity,” said Tania Bertolone, founder and director of The Learning Café, in a statement. “The journey of The Learning Café has always been serendipitous and this process has been no exception.When I met with Fairmount in the winter, I immediately felt a connection. Our beliefs around education and community align perfectly. It's truly a match made in heaven.”

FCA is “thrilled” to partner with TLC and extend its campus to be a part of Chardon Square’s arts community, Bolander said in a statement.

“This beautiful space will enable us to experiment with new programs for adults and teens while also bringing select fan favorites for youth — particularly from our growing music program — to a central location within Geauga County,” she added. “Fairmount Center for the Arts and The Learning Café have a shared student-focused philosophy, dedication to a welcoming environment and commitment to creating thriving local communities. We can’t wait to see how we continue to grow together in this new space.”

TLC will be relocating from its current location at 106 Water Street to the new space, with registration currently open for the 20242025 school year, according to the press release.

TLC offers the Little Learners Program for children 3 to 6 years where play and fun meet exploration and learning, as the program focuses on developing language and motor skills through sensory play and discovery, according to the organization.

In the Elementary Program, for ages 6 to 12, children explore mathematics, language arts, science and history through games, collaborative lessons and hands-on activities that are both engaging and joyful, according to TLC, adding the Teen Program provides a balance for the 12- to 18-year-olds, combining academic lessons and social opportunities with a focus on mathematics, language arts, science and history all in an integrated, hands-on and project-based approach.

All programs are conducted in a carefully prepared environment designed to provide a warm, inviting, inspiring, engaging, joyful, meaningful and purposeful learning experience, the release said.

Additionally, TLC offers specialty classes on Fridays, including the popular Mini Café for 3- to 12-year olds and Open Café for 12- to 18-year olds, providing social opportunities and fun activities.

The arts center will begin to offer select programs at the new space in August, with a full slate of programs and events scheduled to begin in September, according to the organization, which added August programs will include fiber arts for teens and adults, youth dance for musical theater and Zumba for adults.

Starting in the fall, classes will expand to include adult drawing and private music lessons, the organization said in the release. Special events for families and adults will also be added throughout the fall season.

Fairmount’s central location in Russell Township offers dance, music, theater and visual arts classes, workshops and camps yearround for toddlers through seniors. The center also offers a variety of community events including festivals, concerts and the popular Pull Back the Curtain Speaker Series.

For more information on FCA, call 440338-3171 or visit fairmountcenter.org, and for more information on TLC, visit thelearningcafecommunity.com.

Geauga SWCD Offers Summer Stream Quality Monitoring

Explore Geauga County streams and learn about their water chemistry and biology this summer by joining the Geauga Soil and Water Conservation District’s Millennium Youth Conservationists (MYC) team. In collaboration with the Ohio Department of Natural Resources Scenic Rivers Program, participants use kick seines, sediment sticks, water chemistry test kits and more to analyze the health of area streams and rivers while collecting official stream data. All ages are welcome. Join for one outing or all. MYC is free and runs twice a month. For more information, contact Colleen Sharp with the Geauga Soil and Water Conservation District at 440-834-1122 ext. 1766 or csharp@geauga.oh.go.

ROSE NEMUNAITIS/KMG

Help Me Color a Rainbow held its seventh annual golf outing on June 8 at Pleasant Hill Golf Course, with all the proceeds directly benefiting children in hospitals across the United States.

staff rePort

East Geauga Kiwanis Club Honors Students with Awards Banquet

East Geauga Kiwanis Club held its annual awards banquet on June 11 to recognize

Outstanding Freshmen are Charlotte Townsend and Paden Brent from Berkshire High School, and J. Hartman and D. Turon from Cardinal High School. suBmitted

rick from Cardinal High School. Emma Gees ling received the Cardinal Key Club Award and Mason Mendolera received the Richard A. Moss Service Award.

Geauga Beef and Swine

The Geauga Beef and Swine 4-H Club meeting was held on May 19 at the Geauga County Fair school building. The meeting was focused on many different substantial topics. The first topic presented was the health and safety topic, which was keeping safe on the farm. Members talked about some keys to keeping the barn and animals safe.

Six members presented their presentations at the meeting. Mason Adams presented his poster on daily hair care in swine, James Hall presented on duck showmanship, Elizabeth O'Dell presented on parts of a duck and Logan Workman presented on pig diseases.

Members also discussed Camp Whitewood admissions and some details of what will happening. Camp Whitewood is June 9-14.

Towards the end of the meeting, they discussed the breeds of different animals and their differences. They went over every kind of animal so all members could discuss the types there are.

(Submitted by Allie Stumph, news reporter)

Giggles 'n Stitches

The 4-H season has already begun for the Giggles 'n Stitches 4-H Club.

The club leaders are: Rebecca Zallar, president; Samantha Sunderhaft, vice president; Emily Tessean, secretary; Margaret Zallar, treasurer; Audrey Knaus, hospitality coordinator; Isabelle Violette, news reporter; Lucy Weaver, health and safety officer; Gianna Aquila and Kate Moore, historians; Elin Serquina, junior treasurer; and Gabriella Damiani, junior secretary.

The club has started the season strong by attending the Auburn Township Roadside Litter cleanup by cleaning up trash along the roads of Geauga County. With the help of lead advisor Julia Wood and advisor Miranda Skitzki, the members were able to select patterns and fabric for their projects during a field trip to JoAnn's Fabrics in Hudson.

The projects were chosen after getting feedback from members and advisors to figure out what project would be the best for members to complete this year. Everyone has been putting a lot of hard work and time into finishing their projects before Style Re-

4-H News

vue and project judging in July.

This year's projects include loungewear, photography, quilting, market chickens, sun dresses and so much more. Anyone interest ed in learning more about Giggles 'n Stitches 4-H Club or Geauga County 4-H may contact OSU Extension Office at 440-834-4656.

(Submitted by Isabelle Violette, news report er)

Breeders & Feeders

Since its inception in 1971, Breeders and Feeders 4-H Club has worked to make the "best better" in Geauga County. The club has its roots in breeding commercial beef cattle for market. Today, the club truly has something for everyone. Members have the opportunity to take such projects as beef, pigs, poultry, rabbits, sheep and goats to the fair. In addition, members have taken miscel laneous projects such as photography and veterinary science to the fair.

During meetings, members learn about raising quality market projects aimed at pro viding a good product to their buyers. Mem bers are also involved in many community service projects such as making blankets for veterans, Geauga County Hunger Task Force, decorating placemats and creating cards for Geauga County Department on Aging, clean ing up trash after various events at the fair grounds throughout the year, helping the Red Tulip and collecting donations for Rescue Vil lage and Geauga Mamma Dogs & Puppy’s. Look for the club at the 2024 Great Geauga County Fair over Labor Day weekend.

The club also helps organize and put on the Geauga County 4-H 5K run and fun walk with help from Geauga Engineering and Ro botics (GEAR), Plantmasters and Geauga Caprine Kids 4-H clubs. The 5K will take place on Sept. 1 at the Geauga County Fairgrounds in Burton. The race will begin at 8 a.m. in the large grandstands at the fairgrounds and will travel through the fairgrounds. Anyone interested in participating in the run or fun walk may visit the website: www.geaugacoun ty4h5k.com for registration information. Businesses or individuals interested in being sponsors may email geauga4h5k@gmail.com

[Submitted by Lindsey Jochum]

Giggles and Stitches 4-H Club officers are (l to r) front row: Rebecca Zallar, Samantha Sunderhaft, Emily Tessean, Margaret Zallar; and back row: Isabelle Violette, Gianna Aquila, Audrey

Rachael Zurick is a recipient of an East Geauga Kiwanis Club scholarship.

Nancy R. Durham

Nancy R. Durham, age 92 of Troy Township, passed away June 7, 2024, in hospice care.

She was the daughter of Elizabeth (nee Mills) and H. Gould Stewart. Her mother died when she was very young. Her father later married Alice G. Secrest.

Nancy graduated from Warren G. Harding High School, in Warren, where she lived as a child, splitting her time between there and the family farm in West Farmington where she enjoyed riding her horse with friends.

Nancy married Ralph G. Durham, moving to Troy Township in 1950.

Nancy had several jobs over the years, but enjoyed being home sewing, quilting and gardening the most.

She had strong political views and was a staunch supporter of women’s rights.

She was an avid reader and participated in the Burton Library book club for many years.

Most of all, Nancy loved seeing and playing with her great grandchildren.

Nancy is survived by daughter, Donna E. Brown; grandsons, Joshua L. Brown (Anne Marie) and Thomas R. Durham; granddaughter, Brittany Nasca (Nathan); and many nieces, nephews and great-grandchildren.

Preceding her in death, husband Ralph G. Durham; brother Thomas G. Stewart; sister Gwendolyn Dahringer; and son Thomas R. Durham.

A private service will be held at a date to be determined.

Remembrances can be made to Hospice of the Western Reserve or the American Cancer Society.

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

Dorothy Zeravica

Dorothy Zeravica (nee Truden), age 96, of Chardon, was called home to God on June 1, 2024, ten days before her 97th birthday.

Born June 11, 1927, in Cleveland, to Frank and Mary (nee Novak) Truden, she was a longtime resident of Richmond Heights before moving to Chardon.

Dorothy spent her early years living in Cleveland and attended Jane Addams High School. She married Joseph Vukusic in 1945 and, years after his death, she married Nicholas Zeravica in 1974.

Dorothy belonged to the CFU Lodge 859 and was a member of St. Mary Church in Chardon.

She has done many volunteer projects at St. Nicholas Greek Catholic Byzantine Church and also had close ties to St. Vitus Church.

Dorothy enjoyed sewing garments, reading and watching her favorite TV show, the “Golden Girls.” She loved music, especially that of the 1940s swing and big band. She was even crowned the Jitterbug Queen in

Obituaries

the 1940s with her husband as the Jitterbug King.

She loved her pet dogs and cats.

Dorothy had one child, Sue, who was born with multiple medical conditions and given only a few months to live. Dorothy cared for her until her death at age 15.

She will be remembered as generous, caring, compassionate and, by all those that knew her, having a sweet demeanor.

Survivors include her nieces/stepchildren, Ann Lang and Linda Zeravica; nephew/ stepson, Robert (Marge) Grguric; cousin, Sandra Ursini; great-nieces and great-nephews/step-grandchildren, Wm. Todd Lang, Deanna (Bryan) Sicking and Victoria (Matthew) Robinson; four great-grandchildren; nieces & nephews from Joseph’s family; and many extended family.

She was preceded in death by her parents; husbands; and daughter, Sue Lynn Vukusic.

Dorothy was reunited with her family and many close friends who had predeceased her at a graveside ceremony June 12, 2024, at All Souls Cemetery in Chardon Township.

Dorothy’s family would like to thank the Residence of Chardon and Hospice of the Western Reserve for their extraordinary care of Dorothy in her final time.

Donations are suggested to Hospice of the Western Reserve.

Services entrusted to the Potti & Marc F. Burr Funeral Homes of Madison, Chardon, Painesville & Fairport Harbor. Obituary, online condolences and memorial gifts are available at www.marcfburrfuneralhome.com.

Robert Michael Gore

Robert Michael Gore, age 68, of Wil loughby, a beacon of inspiration and positivity, peacefully passed away on June 11, 2024, at Ohman Family Living at Briar in Middlefield.

His journey came to a close after bravely facing a six-month battle following a severe intracranial brain hemorrhage stroke in De cember, which tragically robbed him of his greatest gift, his voice, leaving him unable to express the profound wisdom and motivation that defined his life's work.

He loved being with his children and making memories they will cherish always.

He loved his Cleveland Browns, holding season tickets for an impressive 24 years.

He was a history buff, loved sports, and music, particularly his fervent admiration for Pink Floyd, a band he adored so much he wore out four albums of "The Dark Side of the Moon." The melodies of the Cranberries also found a special place in his heart, reflecting his eclectic taste and vibrant spirit.

Robert will be greatly missed by his three children, daughter Lindsay (Jeremy) Artzner, of Huntsburg Township, and sons, Kyle Gore, of Columbus, and Jonathan (Elizabeth) Gore, of Solon; two wonderful foster granddaughters; granddaughter, Lila Gore; grandson, Emmett Gore; and siblings Michelle, Patrice, Bill (Peg) and John (Fran).

He is preceded in death by his parents; and siblings Kathy, George (Jan) and Nancy.

A Celebration of Life will be announced at a later date, offering an opportunity for all whose lives he touched to pay tribute to his enduring legacy.

In his honor, his children bid farewell with the comforting words: "We will see you on the 'Dark Side of the Moon.' We love and will miss you always."

Arrangements have been entrusted to Burr Funeral Home in Chardon. Condolences and remembrances may be shared online at www.burrservice.com.

Margit Jamieson

Margit Jamieson, a.k.a. Eila Margit Elisabet Salonen Ja mieson, age 81, of Le roy Township, passed away peacefully at her home surrounded by her loving family on June 4, 2024.

She was born in Juva, Finland, on Oct. 30, 1942, to Ilmari and Toini (nee Savolainin) Salonen.

and technologies at Cleveland State University. She made a lasting impact on her students, many of whom were grateful for her direct, patient, knowledgeable and compassionate methods to successfully train them to provide the best nursing care.

Margit’s interests were multifaceted. She was an avid reader, gardener, seamstress and nature lover. She was also a highly skilled cook, preparing large meals.

Most of all, Margit thrived on her relationships with her family and friends, having a positive influence on the many people she encountered. Becoming a grandmother, Mummu, to Ayla and Brenna, she shared her passions and infinite love and helped them develop into the women they are today. She was overjoyed when her great-granddaughter, Lark, became part of her life. She spent every moment she could with her.

After retiring, she spent half the year at her Gunflint Lake cabin along the Minnesota/ Canadian border. She was an active and valued member of the community, developing many friendships.

Margit was also a world traveler, exploring every continent. She fulfilled her lifelong dream journeying to Antarctica in January 2023 with her family.

Margit leaves behind Jim, her devoted husband of 58 years; daughters Katrina (Brian) King and Ann Marie (Tim) Whipkey; granddaughters, Ayla (Jake) Soderberg and Brenna King; great-granddaughter, Lark Soderberg; siblings Kaarlo Salonen, Charles Kujala, Marilyn Pirjo Salonen Kujala; and many nieces and nephews.

Margit epitomized the Finnish word Sisu in both life and death. She was tenacious, strong willed, courageous, resilient and determined to succeed in the face of overwhelming odds.

She was preceded in death by her daughter Carol Jamieson; and siblings Sirkka Timonen, Annalee Ilenda and Bryan Kujala.

A Celebration for Life will be held at Hellriegels Inn, 1840 Mentor Ave., Painesville, on Tuesday, June 25, 2024, from 5-8 p.m. Dinner will be served with a service at 6 p.m.

In lieu of flowers, please consider donating to the American Cancer Society or the Alzheimer’s Association.

Edward Ryder

Edward Ryder, age 75, passed away April 7, 2024.

Born and raised in South Euclid, he was the youngest of eight siblings.

Bob was a graduate of Brush High School, where he first showcased his resilience as a wrestler. He furthered his education at John Carroll University, earning his bachelor’s degree.

He was a devoted father, raising his family in Solon.

Robert's legacy flourished in the realm of motivation and empowerment. Renowned globally as an International Motivational Speaker, he touched countless lives with his wisdom and charisma.

His literary prowess was equally impressive. Under the pen name Arthur Brite, he was a bestselling author of four books, with his fifth awaiting publication, a testament to his enduring passion for sharing knowledge and inspiration.

Beyond his professional endeavors, Robert cherished his role as a devoted father.

Margit left her impoverished and difficult childhood in Finland with a seventh-grade education and immigrated to America in 1960 where she flourished. With the support of her sponsors and mentors she graduated from high school in three years.

Margit met the love of her life, Jim, and they married Nov. 24, 1965.

She continued her passion for education at Lake Erie College, pursuing her scientific interests. She took a break to raise three exceptional daughters, Katrina, Ann Marie and Carol. Her dedication and determination helped her youngest special needs daughter Carol reach her full potential.

Margit returned to college and graduated with a BSN from Kent State University. She enjoyed a successful nursing career as an intensive care nurse at St Luke’s Hospital. She left a lasting impression on her patients due to her compassionate care and dedication to their comfort and well-being.

Margit finished her career as an educator, training returning nurses in the current skills

Mass of Christian Burial will be held Saturday, June 29, 2024, at 11 a.m., at St. Helen’s Catholic Church, 12060 Kinsman Road, Newbury Township.

Following the Mass, there will be a Celebration of Life Eulogy Service at 1 p.m. and a reception at DeJohn Funeral Home & Celebration Center, 12811 Chillicothe Road, Chester Township, until 4 p.m. Please come with memories to share.

Interment will be private and held at a later date.

Online obituary and guestbook at www. DeJohnCares.com.

Notices and obituaries should be emailed to editor@karlovecmedia.com. The Maple Leaf charges a flat fee of $125 per obituary or death notice, including a photograph.

Obituaries

Dorothy Arlene Inghram

Dorothy Arlene Inghram, loving wife, mother, aunt, grandmother and great-grandmother passed away peacefully in her sleep June 16, 2024, at the age of 96.

Dorothy grew up in Gates Mills on the family homestead with her 10 siblings and parents, a girl of the outdoors. She loved the farm and nature. Her first job was being a nanny at 14 years old and, from that experience, had hopes of having a family of her own one day.

Dorothy married her high school sweetheart Richard (Dick) Inghram as he returned from the war in 1947.

Nothing was more important to Dorothy than family. Being a mom was a full-time commitment and honor to her. She shared the natural world with her children through camping, picnics and walks in the woods, always quizzing on bird calls and tree species. She was fascinated with nuts and seeds, frequently collecting as she took walks or traveled to other parts.

Dorothy loved The Great Geauga County Fair. Over the years, she entered home-baked pies, canned goods, sewing projects and her collected antiques, often winning ribbons.

Dorothy was a great cook, hostess and homemaker. She enjoyed hosting the garden and sewing clubs. She reveled in having large family get togethers no matter what the occasion. She knew how to put on a party and make people feel welcome, no matter how big or small the group. She would put together flower arrangements from her garden to adorn the table.

While raising a family and being very involved with each child’s interests, Dorothy learned to play golf to join her husband’s passion. She became very accomplished in the game and together they enjoyed many fun trips.

Dorothy later decided to become a real estate agent. She shared the love of residential property and home building with Dick, and worked alongside him investing, building and selling — a true team they were in everything they did.

The most characteristic feature of Dorothy’s personality was that she was willing to try anything and remained resolute in her efforts to her final days.

Dorothy is survived by her children, Richard Jr. (and Diane), Randall, Ramie (and Martin Allard) and Reid (and Cheryl); grandchildren, Richard III, William, Amy, Brandon and Marli; step-grandchildren, Kera, Robbie and Amber; great-grandchildren, Mackenzie, Malarie and Calvin; and many nieces and nephews.

She was preceded in death by her parents, Walter and Jessie Davis; six sisters and four brothers; and her beloved husband, Richard, whom she loved dearly.

Visitation at Gattozzi and Son Funeral Home, 12524 Chillicothe Road, Chesterland, on Friday, June 21, 2024, from 5-7 p.m. Burial at Gates Mills North Cemetery on Saturday, June 22, 2024, at 10 a.m. Please meet at the cemetery.

John Resnis

John Resnis, age 85, of Munson Township, passed away peacefully on June 13, 2024, at University Hospi tals Geauga Medical Center, surrounded by his loving family.

Born on June 28, 1938, in Krustpils, Lat via, to Roberts and Minna (nee Kalnins) Res nis, John’s journey through life was marked by resilience, love and a deep commitment to his family, faith and heritage.

John’s early years were shaped by his Latvian roots and, upon immigrating to the United States, he embraced the Latvian community wholeheartedly.

He pursued education with vigor, graduating as the valedictorian of Danville High School. He earned his degree from Kenyon College in Mt. Vernon, Ohio, and subsequently served his country proudly in the U.S. Army Chemical Corps from 1961 to 1964.

On Aug. 12, 1972, John married Ilze K. Mucnieks in Lakewood, Ohio, embarking on a life together that would be centered around their three daughters.

John worked as a chemist for Diamond Shamrock/Metal Coatings, applying his passion for chemistry and dedication to his profession.

Beyond his career, John found immense joy in simple pleasures. He cherished fishing trips, particularly in the serene waters of Canada, finding solace and contentment amidst nature’s beauty. His love for singing folk songs and honoring Latvian traditions spoke volumes about his pride in his heritage, a legacy he passed on with great enthusiasm.

Family was the cornerstone of John’s life. He was a devoted husband, father and grandfather, finding his greatest happiness in their company. His humility, kindness and unwavering support endeared him to all who knew him.

His loss will be deeply felt by his beloved wife, Ilze; daughters, Larisa, Kristine and Silvija; granddaughters, Ellija and Juliana; son-in-law, Karlis; brother, Pete; sister-in-law, Bonnie; as well as a wide circle of relatives and friends who cherished his gentle spirit.

His memory will live on in the hearts of all who were fortunate enough to know him.

A memorial service to honor John’s life will be held at a later date.

The family suggest donations be made to The United Latvian Evangelical Lutheran Church of Cleveland, 15120 Detroit Ave., Lakewood, OH 44107.

Arrangements entrusted to Burr Funeral Home in Chardon. For those wishing to share condolences or memories, please visit www. burrservice.com

Notices should be sent in writing by the funeral directors and memorial societies to: Geauga County Maple Leaf, P.O. Box 1166, Chardon, OH, 440245166, faxed to 440-285-2015 or emailed to editor@karlovecmedia.com. The Maple Leaf charges a flat fee of $125 per obituary or death notice, including a photograph.

Geauga Sheriff’s Report

The following is a sampling of the calls handled by the Geauga County Sheriff’s Office June 7 to June 13, 2024.

ANIMAL PROBLEM

June 8

6:09 p.m., Ravenna Road, Newbury. Neighbor's dog keeps coming on to caller's property. Dog is a bull mastiff and is aggressive. Caller spoke to the neighbors but this is continuing to happen more and more. I spoke with the caller he stated that the neighbor one house south of his allows his dogs to come on to the caller's property. The caller stated that the dog has become aggressive in the past. The caller wishes me to tell the neighbor to keep his dogs on his own property.

CITIZEN DISPUTE

June 12

11:58 a.m., Tavern Road, Burton. Last night while caller was out flying his hot air balloon, his crew parked on the street in front of this address and the male there came out and pointed a gun at them. Caller is requesting a phone call. Complainant advised that pointed a gun at one of his crew members last night, while their vehicle was parked in the roadway. Complainant advised neither party spoke to each other before or after the incident took place. Complainant requested a deputy speak with suspect or family member to advise him not to do that in the future.

INDECENT EXPOSURE

Jan. 12

5:32 p.m., Kinsman Road, Middlefield. Male lives in a van on the property. He got out of his van and (defecated) in the yard by a tree. He went to the neighbor's tree to defecate. He is constantly exposing himself when he goes to the bathroom. There is children in the area. Caller is very upset. Unknown older male using tree on another's property as restroom. Male described as older and driving a rusty van. Male not located at this time.

NOISE PROBLEM

June 13

9:43 p.m., Kile Road, Montville. Caller is very angry. She lives across from the water park and the music is so loud. She knows there is no noise ordinance however she feels they need to turn the music down. It's a work night and the base is so loud her dogs are freaking out. Pioneer Water Park having "Adult Night" which occurs ever Thursday night. Music ends at 11 p.m.. They were advised of neighbor complaining of loud music.

ROAD RAGE

June 10

8:50 a.m., Munn Road, Auburn. Female going about 80 mph, took place about 30 minutes ago. Caller went up to the vehicle and told her to slow down driver told her not to go up to vehicles because she could get shot. Spoke with the complainant at her residence. Complainant upset that a vehicle passed her on a double yellow and was driving 80 mph on Munn Road. Complainant confronted the female driver at Washington Street and words were exchanged. No direct threat of violence. Plate provided by complainant was not good. Extra patrol requested in the area. Complainant was advised not to confront other drivers on road rage incidents.

SUSPICIOUS

June 7

10:06 p.m., Mayfield Road, Claridon. Worker at Shell at Route 322 and Aquilla said there has been a white couple hanging around trying to sell their food stamps. She said they are new faces. I checked the area and was unable to locate anyone matching the description.

June 12

5:48 a.m., Hosmer Road, Parkman. Faded and rusted red/pink Geo Metro sedan parked in front of the caller's house and it sped off northbound towards Route 608. Skinny white male with facial hair, possibly homeless. This vehicle was also in the area on sunday and the driver was acting funny, and erratically drove by a few times.

THEFT

June 13

5:24 p.m., Stafford Road, Auburn. Deputy contacted male who stated his wife's vehicle was broken into. Male advised he just wanted it documented and for the deputies to be ware it occurred. See report.

THREATENING

June 7

9:47 a.m., Merritt Road, Geauga County Sheriff's Office, Munson. Female in lobby to report suspicious, abuse, threatening, harassment. Spoke with two complainants. Advising she is afraid her mother is doing witchcraft to make her not be able to use her phone. Advised there are a lot of past family issues. Advising of marital issues, however, (name redacted) lives in Southington. Advised to contact Trumbull and get advice on how to proceed.

Bulletin Board

Effective Aug. 1, 2023, for-profit and nonprofit organizations or groups will need to purchase a paid advertisement for an event anytime tickets are sold, fee is charged or a freewill donation is taken. If an organization or group does not wish to buy an ad to promote their event and connect with our readers, Karlovec Media Group will print a simple liner-type ad identifying the event, date/time/place and a number to call for more information. E-mail submissions to: cbb@karlovecmedia.com

Garage Sale

June 20 and 21, 9 a.m. to 4 p.m.

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

Middlefield Historical Society will hold its annual garage sale at Century Inn Underloft, 14979 South State Ave. in Middlefield Village. Discount day is Saturday. Call 440241-2192 for more information.

Garden Tour

June 21 and 22, 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.

The Gates Mills Garden Club is sponsoring its biennial garden tour of six private, exclusive gardens and the club’s property. For information and to purchase tickets, visit www.TheGatesMillsGardenClub.com or call 440-423-4555.

Young of Heart

June 21, 11:30 a.m.

Geauga Young of Heart will have its annual birthday party, for members only, in St. Anselm’s Kelly Hall with a Western theme. Lunch and birthday cake will be provided by YOH. Entertainment will be by Steppin’ Out.

The group will see a movie at the Atlas Movie Theatre behind Eastgate on June 26 at noon. For more information, call Kim at 440-668-3293.

First Fly-In Of Summer

June 22, 7-11 a.m.

The Experimental Aircraft Association, Chapter 5 will host its first fly-in of summer at the Geauga County Airport, 15421 Old State Road in Middlefield. Students 8 to 17 can register in advance with parental permission for a free Young Eagle Airplane at Youngeaglesday.org. The event also features a pancake breakfast, youth stations, displays and demonstrations.

For more information, call 440-632-1884 or 440-836-3225.

Chesterland Village Open House

June 22, 12-4 p.m.

Chesterland Historical Village will host an open house to “Celebrate America” on June 22 from noon to 4 p.m. at the village located at the corner of Caves and Mayfield roads in Chester Township.

Then, on July 11 at 6:30 p.m., the village will host a Christmas in July potluck picnic with Debbie Weinkamer portraying first lady Lucretia Garfield with “The Garfield’s Con-

nection to Chester Township.” RSVP is required by calling 440-729-1830. Both events are free of charge.

Huntsburg Grange Concert

June 22, 6-8 p.m.

Huntsburg Grange 2541 is hosting a summer concert in the bandstand park located at the intersection of state Route 528 and U.S. Route 322. Join for fun, food and music featuring the Hickory Rockers, a roots rock quartet based in Geauga County. In case of rain, the concert will be held in Huntsburg Town Hall. Call 440-636-3052 for information.

Summer Solstice Campfire Night

June 22, 7-10 p.m.

Come to Fairmount Center for the Arts in Russell Township for a free, family-friendly outdoor sing-along around the campfire with games, spooky stories, s’mores, campthemed art activities and more. For information, call 440-338-3171.

Polka-Style Worship

June 23, 9:30 a.m.

Join the Chardon Polka Band as it leads its 10th annual polka-style worship service at Celebration Lutheran Church, 10621 Auburn Road, Chardon.

Following the 10 a.m. worship service, members of the congregation will provide a free picnic lunch. The band will present a free concert from 11:45 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. Kids are welcome. Bring lawn chairs.

The event will be held indoors in case of inclement weather.

Donations will be accepted during the service and concert to benefit The Ox Shoppe, a nonprofit serving people with employment barriers.

For more information, call Paul at 440897-0121.

Century Village Speaker Series

June 23, 2-4 p.m.

Step into history as Barabara Toncheff presents “Connivers in Corsets, Female Spies & Smugglers at Century Village Auburn Church, 14653 East Park St., Burton. Cost is $5 per person. Call 440-834-1492 for information.

Polka Dancing Party

June 23, 3-7 p.m.

The Lodge 158 Loyalites polka dance

Road Construction

Road construction on Caves Road between Mulberry Road and the Lake County line will take place from June 17 through July 17, between the hours of 6 a.m. and 5:30 p.m. Expect traffic delays and rough roads; drive with care.

at SNPJ Farm, 10946 Heath Road, Kirtland features the Don Wojtila Band from 3-7 p.m. Open to the public, admission is free. For information, call 440-256-3423.

Free Community Lunch

June 26, 11 a.m. to 1 p.m.

All are welcome to attend a free community lunch presented by the Women’s League at St. Mark Lutheran Church, 11900 Chillicothe Road, Chester Township.

Geauga PERI Meets

June 26, 11 a.m.

The Geauga County Public Employee Retirees, Inc. (PERI) Chapter 86 will meet at St. Mary’s banquet room in Chardon. The meeting begins at 11:30 a.m. The topic is a review of the June 12 district PERI meeting. Call 440-226-4491 to RSVP by June 21.

LCGS Meeting

June 27, 10 a.m.

The Lake County Genealogical Society (LCGS) will meet via Zoom. Following a brief business meeting, guest speaker Bernard N. Meisner, a Texas-based genealogist specializing in German research, will present "Pushes, Pulls, and Records: The Waves of German Immigrants to the United States."

Visit www.lcgsohio.org for more information and the invitation to the Zoom meeting. One does not need to be a member to attend the monthly meeting.

Food Pantry Open

June 28, 10 a.m. to noon

The food pantry at the Chester Christian Center church is open to anyone in the community in need of food. One does not need to be a member of the church to attend. The church is located at 11815 Chillicothe Road in Chester Township.

Free Community Dinner

June 28, 5-6:30 p.m.

Mayfield United Methodist Church is hosting dinner at the church located at 7747 Mayfield Road in Chester Township. Carryout is available

Family Health & Safety Day

June 29, 9 a.m. to 1 p.m.

Join University Hospitals Geauga Medical Center for a family-friendly community event to celebrate wellness with free health screenings, educational activities and demonstrations. The event includes both walk-up and preregistered health screenings at the medical center located at 13207 Ravenna Road, Claridon Township.

For information or to register for screenings, call 440-901-6169.

Art & Craft Show

June 29, 10 a.m. to 3 p.m.

Peace Lutheran Church will hold its first annual art and craft show, rain or shine, at the church located at 12686 Bass Lake Road, Munson Township.

The event features handmade arts, kids’ craft corner, dog adoptions from Geauga Humane Society and food sales.

Saturday in the Country

June 29, 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.

Burton Chamber of Commerce is sponsoring Saturday in the Country: Burton Uncorked at the Burton Log Cabin. Enjoy a day of line dancing, wine tasting from six wineries, craft vendors and food. The chamber is hosting events with a different theme the last Saturday of every month through September.

Travel With Parkman 55+

Aug. 1, 9 a.m.

Register by July 1 to travel with Parkman 55+ Club on a senior bus trip to see the play “Ruth” at the Ohio Star Theater, 1387 Old Route 39 in Sugarcreek. A remarkable story of second chances follows the journey of an ordinary woman whose faith in God ignites a chain of events that changes the course of history.

Bus will leave Parkman Community House at 9 a.m. The day includes transportation, show and lunch at Dutch Valley restaurant. Call 330-326-3083 or 440-5549201 for more information.

Legal Notices

LEGAL NOTICE

IN THE COURT OF COMMON PLEAS

GEAUGA COUNTY, OHIO

24-D-000272 – Joshua Miller vs. Silke Rei McGraw Miller, Defendants Silke Rei McGraw Miller, whose last known address is 572 Virginia Avenue, Unit B, Fort Campbell, KY 42223, and whose current address is unknown and cannot with the exercise of reasonable diligence be ascertained, and upon whom service of summons cannot be had in the State of Ohio, will take notice that you have been named as the Defendant in a Complaint for Divorce filed on April 17, 2024, in the Geauga County Court of Common Pleas, Division of Domestic Relations, captioned as Joshua Miller v. Silke Rei McGraw Miller, Case No. 24-D-000272, by which Plaintiff is seeking an absolute divorce from Defendant. A hearing on this matter is scheduled for August 22, 2024, at 9:00 a.m. before Magistrate Kevin L. Starrett, Geauga County Court of Common Pleas, Division of Domestic Relations, One Short Court, Chardon, OH 44024. You will further take notice that you are required to answer the Complaint for Divorce within 28 days of last publication. The last publication date will be June 27, 2024. If you do not answer the Complaint, a judgment may be granted against you for the relief demanded.

By Michael Drain, Attorney for Plaintiff, 147 Bell Street, Suite 202, Chagrin Falls, OH 44022. (440) 247-3380.

May23-30 Jun6-13-20-27, 2024

LEGAL NOTICE

Sale of Real Estate

GEAUGA County Foreclosure Auction

Case# 23-F-000600 - Matrix Financial Services Corporation vs. Christopher Milo, et al.

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

Property Address: 11292 TAYLOR MAY ROAD, CHAGRIN FALLS, GEAUGA, OH, 44023;

Legal Description: Full Legal Listed on Public Website; Parcel Number: 01-076100

Bidding will be available only on www.Auction.com opening on July 9, 2024, 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: July 23, 2024 at 10:00

AM. Sales subject to cancellation. The deposit required is $10,000 to be paid by wire transfer within 2 hours of the sale ending. No cash is permitted.

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

To view all sale details and terms for this property visit www.Auction.com and enter the Search Code 23F000600 into the search bar. Jun13-20-27, 2024

LEGAL NOTICE

Sale of Real Estate

GEAUGA County Foreclosure Auction

Case# 23-F-000683 - Carrington Mortgage Services, LLC vs Reffett, Heather, et al.

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

Property Address: 8401 SUMMIT DRIVE, CHAGRIN FALLS, GEAUGA, OH, 44023;

Legal Description: Full Legal Listed on Public Website; Parcel Number: 02-013600 & 02013500

Bidding will be available only on www.Auction.com opening on July 9, 2024, 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: July 23, 2024 at 10:00

AM. Sales subject to cancellation. The deposit required is $10,000 to be paid by wire transfer within 2 hours of the sale ending. No cash is permitted.

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

To view all sale details and terms for this property visit www.Auction.com and enter the Search Code 23F000683 into the search bar. Jun13-20-27, 2024

known, the Unknown heirs, devisees, legatees, beneficiaries of Joseph A. Sulak and their unknown spouses and creditors; and, the unknown spouse of Joseph A. Sulak, John Doe(s), (Defendants)

In pursuance of an Order of Sale directed to me in the above entitled action, I will offer for sale at public online auction the following described real estate:

Property Address: 9613 Kim Drive, Chesterland, OH, 44026

Legal Description: A full legal description of the property may be obtained at https://gryphonusa.roup.com/Auctions/Details/2804

Parcel Number: 11-335180

Said Premises Appraised At: $175,000.00

Minimum Bid: $116,666.67

Location of Sale: https://gryphonusa.roup.com/

Auctions/Details/2804

Online Bidding Opens: 7/10/2024 1:00 PM

Online Bidding Closes: 7/17/2024 1:00 PM unless extended under anti-snipe rules

Provisional Sale Date: 7/31/2024

Terms of Sale: A deposit in the amount of $5,000.00 is due in accordance with the terms and conditions of the online auction. The balance is due within thirty days after confirmation of sale.

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

The auction is subject to postponement and cancellation.

Richard F. Kruse, Private Selling Officer psoauctions@gryphonusa.com

Jun13-20-27, 2024

IN THE COURT OF COMMON PLEAS GEAUGA COUNTY, OHIO

CASE NO. 24-F-000388 - CITIZENS BANK, NA, PLAINTIFF VS. THE ESTATE OF SPENCER LEE COGHLAN, ET AL., DEFENDANTS.

To the Defendants the unknown spouse, creditors, executors, executrices, administrators, heirs at law, next of kin, devisees, legatees, and/ or assigns and their spouses, executors, executrices, administrators, heirs at law, next of kin, devisees, legatees and/or assigns of Spencer L. Coghlan, aka Spencer Lee Coghlan whose present location is unknown and cannot with reasonable diligence be ascertained: Plaintiff has brought this action naming you as a defendant in the above-named Court, 100 Short Court Street, Suite 300, Chardon, OH 44024, by filing its Complaint on the 7th day of June, 2024. The object of the complaint is to foreclose the equity of redemption under a mortgage against the property located at 13820 Sperry Road, Novelty, Ohio 44072; PPN: 23-055880 and 26-031950

The relief demanded by Plaintiff is judgment against the subject property in the amount of $26,155.72 plus interest at the rate of 8.50% per annum from October 30, 2023 plus costs, attorney fees and such other legal and equitable relief to which it may be entitled.

You are required to answer the Complaint within twenty-eight (28) days after the last publication of this notice setting forth whatever right, title or interest you have or may claim to have in the aforementioned premises or be forever barred from claiming or asserting same. The publication will be published once a week for six (6) consecutive weeks, with the last publication to be made on the 18 day of July, 2024.

In case of your failure to answer or otherwise respond as permitted by the Ohio Rules of Civil Procedure within the time stated, judgment by default will be rendered against you for the relief demanded in the Complaint.

By Johna M. Bella, Attorney for Plaintiff, 405 Madison Avenue, Suite 2200, Toledo, Ohio 43604. Phone: (419) 244-9500; Fax: (419) 244-9510. Jun13-20-27 Jul4-11-18, 2024

REQUEST FOR PROPOSALS

Munson Township, Ohio

Munson Township is issuing a Request for Proposals (RFP) for a qualified engineering/ consulting firm to complete design and construction of a dam removal and stream restoration project in Munson Township, Ohio. This project is funded under the Ohio Department of Natural Resources H2Ohio Program. The total maximum cost/price for performance under this contract is $320,900.

ADVERTISEMENT FOR BIDS/ PUBLIC NOTICE TO BIDDERS

ested in receiving the bid specifications and other bid information, please contact kacres@ crwp.org.

Jun13-20, 2024

LEGAL NOTICE

NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING

Proposed 2025 Geauga County Tax Budget Notice is hereby given that on July 2, 2024 at 10:00 a.m. a Public Hearing will be held by the Board of County Commissioners of Geauga County, Ohio to discuss the proposed Tax Budget, for the next fiscal year ending December 31, 2025. Said hearing will be held in the Commissioners’ Chambers, 12611 Ravenwood Dr., Chardon, Ohio. The proposed 2025 Tax Budget will be on file in the office of the County Auditor from June 28, 2024 through July 9, 2024 and will be available for public inspection during that time. A copy of this legal notice is posted on the county’s internet site. Go to http://www.co.geauga.oh.us, click on Notices and then Public Hearings.

BY ORDER OF THE GEAUGA COUNTY

BOARD OF COMMISSIONERS

Christine Blair, Clerk Jun20, 2024

NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING

Montville Township

Two copies of the proposed 2025 tax budget for the Township of Montville, Geauga County are on file and available for inspection after 6/18/24. Please e-mail khawkins@montvillegeauga.com to make an appointment for viewing. A public hearing on the proposed tax budget will be held at the township office located at 9755 Madison Rd., Montville, Ohio on Tuesday, July 2, 2024 at 7:15 p.m.

Karen Hawkins, Fiscal Officer Jun20, 2024

LEGAL NOTICE

Sale of Real Estate

GEAUGA County Foreclosure Auction Case# 22-F-000397 - NewRez LLC d/b/a Shellpoint Mortgage Servicing vs Claar Jr, Robert, et al.

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

Property Address: 17530 REYNOLDS RD, W FARMINGTON, GEAUGA, OH, 44491; Legal Description: Full Legal Listed on Public Website; Parcel Number: 25-012411 and 25012410

Bidding will be available only on www.Auction.com opening on July 16, 2024, 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: July 30, 2024 at 10:00 AM. Sales subject to cancellation. The deposit required is $5,000 to be paid by wire transfer within 2 hours of the sale ending. No cash is permitted.

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

To view all sale details and terms for this property visit www.Auction.com and enter the Search Code 22F000397 into the search bar.

Jun20-27 Jul4, 2024

DNR-230086.02

PUNDERSON STATE PARK WASTEWATER TREATMENT PLANT IMPROVEMENTS Ohio Department of Natural Resources Newbury, Ohio, Geauga County

Bids Due: 2:00 PM local time, July, 12, 2024; through the State’s electronic bidding system at https://bidexpress.com

EDGE Participation Goal: 5% of contract

Domestic steel use is required per ORC 153.011.

Contract Estimated Cost

$3,000,120.00

cil Chambers of the Chardon Municipal Center, 111 Water Street, Chardon, Ohio at 6:25 P.M. upon the 11th day of July, 2024. Said hearing is to provide the public an opportunity to comment regarding the City of Chardon’s proposed budget for fiscal year 2024. A copy of the proposed budget is on file and available for public inspection in the office of the Finance Director of said City, weekdays between the hours of 8:00 a.m. and 5:00 p.m. All interested persons are urged to attend. AMY DAY, CLERK OF COUNCIL Jun20, 2024

NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING Claridon Township

The Claridon Township Board of Trustees will hold a public hearing on the 2025 proposed tax budget on Monday, July 1, 2024 at 6:00 pm at the Administration Building at 13932 Mayfield Road, Claridon, Ohio. Two copies of the proposed Tax Budget will be available for review at the Administration Building from 8:00 am to Noon on July 1, 2024, as well as, the adopted Tax Budget on July 17, 2024.

Paula J. Hietanen, Fiscal Officer Jun20, 2024

NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING APPEAL FOR AN AREA VARIANCE TO THE CHESTER TOWNSHIP ZONING RESOLUTION

Notice is hereby given that the Chester Township Board of Zoning Appeals will conduct a public hearing on an application identified as number ZA-2024-7, on an appeal for an area variance to the Chester Township Zoning Resolution on the 1st day of July, 2024 at 7:00 p.m. at Chester Town Hall; 12701 Chillicothe Rd.

The applicants, Jaclyn Davey and Michael Wacker request an Area Variance for property located at 11781 Summers Rd. They propose building an accessory building exceeding 1,280 square feet. This is in violation of Section 5.01.03 of the Chester Township Zoning Resolution.

Kathleen McCarthy, Administrative Assistant Jun20, 2024

NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING APPEAL FOR AN AREA VARIANCE TO THE CHESTER TOWNSHIP ZONING RESOLUTION

Notice is hereby given that the Chester Township Board of Zoning Appeals will conduct a public hearing on an application identified as number ZA-2024-8, on an appeal for an Area Variance to the Chester Township Zoning Resolution on the 1st day of July, 2024 at 7:00 p.m. at Chester Town Hall; 1201 Chillicothe Rd.

The applicant, Thomas Rutledge requests an Area Variance for property located at 7120 Old Mill Rd. He proposes building an accessory building to the front of the primary structure due to lot shape. This is in violation of Section 5.01.03 of the Chester Township Zoning Resolution.

Kathleen McCarthy, Administrative Assistant Jun20, 2024

NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING Chester Township

The Chester Township Board of Trustees will hold a public hearing at 6:35 PM on July 11, 2024 for the FY 2025 budget. A copy of the 2025 budget can be viewed at Chester Town Hall, 12701 Chillicothe Road, Chesterland, OH 44026 through July 11, 2024. Patricia Jarrett, Fiscal Officer Jun20, 2024

LEGAL NOTICE

SALE OF REAL ESTATE

IN THE COURT OF COMMON PLEAS

GEAUGA COUNTY, OHIO

Case No. 23-F-000163 consolidated with 22-F-000654 - Mortgage Assets Management, LLC (Plaintiff) vs. Name(s) Un-

Proposals are to be submitted electronically to Kaylee Acres Eclov at kacres@crwp.org no later than 4:00 PM on June 24, 2024, for Munson Township’s Croatian Lodge Dam Removal and Stream Restoration. Bids received will be opened publicly at Munson Township Hall on June 24, 2024, at 4:15 PM. If you are inter-

General Contract

Total General Contract Alternates $225,000.00

Pre-bid Meeting: Wednesday, June 26, 2024 from 11:00 a.m. until approximately 1:00 p.m. at the following location: Punderson State Park Lodge Restaurant, 11755 Kinsman Rd., Newbury, OH, 44065

Bid Documents: Electronically at https://bidexpress.com.

More Info: A/E contact: Todd Kramer, P.E., CTI Engineers, Inc., Phone: 330-294-5996, E-mail: tkramer@ctiengr.com Jun20-27 Jul4, 2024

NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING

City of Chardon

Residents of the City of Chardon shall take note that a public hearing shall be conducted by the Council of the City of Chardon in Coun-

NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARINGS

Notice is hereby given that on July 9, 2024, commencing at 1:00 pm and on again at 6:30 pm the Northeast Ohio Public Energy Council (“NOPEC”), on behalf of the Township of Munson will hold public hearings with respect to the Plan of Operation and Governance for the aggregation of competitive retail natural gas (the “Aggregation Program”), as previously authorized by such members pursuant to Ohio Revised Code Section 4929.26 and 4929.27. Hearings will take place in the Township of Munson Township Hall, 12210 Auburn Road, Chardon, OH. The Aggregation Program will apply automatically to all eligible customers of retail natural gas within the Township of Munson, except for those who elect to opt-out. Customers may opt-out without charge during a designated opt-out period prior to initiation

of service under the Aggregation Program and approximately every two (2) years thereafter. NOPEC seeks to provide competitive natural gas service for consumers by selecting a supplier through a negotiation process and leveraging the combined resources and buying power of member communities in NOPEC. The Plan of Operation and Governance addresses the following topics regarding the Aggregation Program: (1) goals, operations and funding; (2) consumer participation, including terms of opting out; (3) customer care; (4) organizational structure and management of NOPEC; and (5) the steps toward establishing the Aggregation Program.

Northeast Ohio Public Energy Council Jun20, 2024

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

Portable Source Relocation Pre-approval GRANGER MATERIALS, INC.

ID #: REL05649

Date of Action: 06/17/2024

The equipment for this operation, All Other Miscellaneous Nonmetallic Mineral Product Manufacturing, has been approved to move to Squires Road, 41.349078 by 81.367217, Bainbridge Twps, Ohio 44023. In the director’s judgment the portable source will have an acceptable environmental impact. All questions, requests for pertinent information and documentation concerning this action must be directed to Timothy Swavely at Cleveland Division of Air Quality, 2nd Floor 75 Erieview Plaza, Cleveland, OH 44114 or (216)664-2297. Jun20, 2024

NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING

Huntsburg Township

Huntsburg Township will hold a budget hearing for the year ending December 31, 2025 on July 2, 2024 at 8:00 pm during the trustee’s regular meeting at the town hall located at 16534 Mayfield Road, Huntsburg. Persons requiring special needs should contact the office 48 hours prior to the hearing. Upon adoption of the Budget for the year ending December 31, 2025 two copies will be available for public inspection. Please call the office at 440-6365486 ext. 2 for more information.

Michele A. Saunders, Fiscal Officer Jun20, 2024

NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING APPLICATION FOR CONDITIONAL USE PERMIT BURTON TOWNSHIP

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 9th day of July, 2024 at 7:00 o’clock p.m. at: Burton Township Administration Building, 14821 Rapids Road, Burton, Ohio 44021.

This application #1652-24, submitted by Troy Jones, requests a conditional use certificate for a residential home with two occupants to change the garage into an ice cream shop. This request is made in an R-5 (Low Density Residential) district located at: 14828 Hubbard Road in Burton Township, Ohio. Parcel #04106160.

Additional details are included in the application, a copy of which may be requested by contacting the Burton Township BZA Secretary at Elana.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. Elana Koh, Secretary Jun20, 2024

Real Estate Transfers

Following is a list of real estate transfers for the week of June 10, 2024, provided as a public service by the Geauga County Auditor’s Office. Transfers may involve the sale of land only.

AUBURN TOWNSHIP

Russell J. and Nicole M. Chiles, 11730 Colchester Drive, to Juanita L. and Nathaniel E. Simpson, $630,000. (3.86 acres)

Santo Vartola Jr., 17296 Messenger Road, to Riley Davis, $129,500. (5.00 acres)

Gretchen Senor (TOD), 762 Sandlewood Lane (Bldg. 762, No. 45), to John and Donna Woodward, $525,000. (0.00 acres)

Nicole Antoinette Crews and Roger Frank, 10560 Auburndale Drive, to Greggory and Cathleen Warfield, $718,200. (3.00 acres)

Robert J. Wagner (trustee), 10870 Golden Pond Drive, to Daniel J. and Linda E. Duraney (co-trustees), $798,000. (5.16 acres)

BAINBRIDGE TOWNSHIP

Kristine M. Brownfield, 18041

Hawksmoor Way, to Kristen Lee Clifton and William Elton Clifton III, $850,000. (2.39 acres)

James Roger Cain, 17785 Snyder Road, to KDDS Properties LLC, $205,100. (1.60 acres)

Matthew A. and Eleanor Leigh Secrist, 17424 Long Meadow Trail, to Coleen and Bryan N. Gregorich, $825,000. (0.72 acres)

Canyon Lakes Colony Co., Crescent Ridge (s/l 411), to Mario A. Leone and Maura F. Jochum, $275,000. (0.97 acres)

BURTON VILLAGE

John A. Rowland (trustee), 13969 E. Center St., to Sherry R. Rowland (trustee), $230,000. (0.85 acres)

Burton BNK Investors LLC, 14522 N. Cheshire St., to Vinny’s Pizza II LLC, $495,000. (0.27 acres)

CHARDON CITY

Triban Investments LLC, 329 Park Ave., to Cider Mill Townhomes LLC, $150,000. (3.54 acres)

Mikala Rae Morgan and Robert Michael, 311 Irma Drive, to Sandra A. Smith, $211,000. (0.26 acres)

CHESTER TOWNSHIP

Barbara C. Havighurst, 9101 Sherman Road, to Anthony Kosley and Dominic Kosley, $455,000. (16.70 acres)

CJP Properties LLC, 8211 Mayfield Road, to CTL Investment Holding LLC, $160,000. (1.02 acres)

CLARIDON TOWNSHIP

Paul D. and Linda N. Burkholder, 14730 Durkee Road, to Samuel F. Schmucker and Miriam F. Miller, $450,000. (3.00 acres)

Mary E. Krage (TOD), 11511 Taylor Wells Road, to Michael John Horvath, $510,000. (18.71 acres)

HAMBDEN TOWNSHIP

George R. Jr. and Kelly A. Jordan, 10996 Kile Road, to Mitchell A. and Kelly A. Sears, $451,200. (5.40 acres)

MIDDLEFIELD TOWNSHIP

Jacob J. and Martha Gingerich, 16175 Madison Road, to David D. Gingerich and Rebecca D. Byler, $354,000. (2.12 acres)

MIDDLEFIELD VILLAGE

Middlefield Parkway, 15255 Timber Ridge, to NVR Inc., $64,600. (0.21 acres)

Middlefield Parkway, 15257 Timber Ridge, to NVR Inc., $64,600. (0.21 acres) Middlefield Parkway, 15249 Timber Ridge, to NVR Inc., $64,600. (0.21 acres)

Pinehill Properties Ltd., Lake Avenue, 15741 Grove St., 14755 Hillcrest Ave. and 14777 Hillcrest Ave., to Parkside Apts. Ltd., $1,450,000. (1.91 acres)

MONTVILLE TOWNSHIP

Janice A. Lewis, James C. C. Orr Jr., Samuel U. Orr, Lolita D. Orr, Kamilla D. Jones and Rueben R. Hardy, 9424 Madison Road, to Rueben Randall Hardy, James C. C. Orr Jr., Samuel U. Orr, Lolita D. Orr, Kamilla D. Jones and Rueben R. Hardy, $12,900. (19.99 acres)

Chelsey Bleck Stone, 15600 GAR Highway, Patrick Minor, $265,000. (1.50 acres)

MUNSON TOWNSHIP

Michael W. and Simone A. Majetich, 12675 Mill View Lane, to Tyler and Alyssa Hardman, $490,000. (5.23 acres) North Alpine Homes LLC, 12395 Country Oaks Trail, to Corey Joseph and Stephen Rothgeb, $316,500. (1.55 acres)

PARKMAN TOWNSHIP

Billy B. Jr. and Malinda Mullet, 16020 Soltis Road, to Jacob R. and Ellen E. Schlabach, $99,000. (6.49 acres)

SOUTH RUSSELL VILLAGE

Barrick R. (TOD) and Melinda K. P. (TOD) Stees, 108 Anglers Drive, to Westin G. Bomback and Molly S. Meadows, $556,000. (0.75 acres)

THOMPSON TOWNSHIP

Maren B., Nathaniel W. and Jesse S. Curtis (co-trustees), Madison Road, to Christopher Suran, $325,000. (23.36 acres)

Classifieds

AUTOS & PARTS

Ford F-150 ext cab truck: manual 5-speed, alum cap, new bed, 2006, 150,000 miles, $4,500. 440-3645098.

FOR RENT

Office Space in Chardon: second floor, Main Street, approx. 535 square feet. $600/month, includes HVAC and water. Call 440-285-2247.

FOR SALE

Howard Rototiller: 42” wide, for compact tractor. Cat 1 three-point hitch. $1,800. 440-487-2955.

Daylilies: over 450 varieties, $10 to $12 per large clump. Call 440-543-9303 or 440-570-1377. Utility Trailer: 7’x12’, needs work. 440-313-5896.

VEVOR Demolition Jack Hammer 3600W Jack Hammer Concrete Breaker 1800 BPM Heavy Duty Electric Jack Hammer 6pcs Chisels Bit w/Gloves & 360°Swiveling Front Handle for Trenching, Chipping, Breaking Holes. BRAND NEW, NEVER OPENED. $225. Email ads@karlovecmedia.com and write “Jack Hammer” in subject line.

Small stack of lumber: multiple sizes. 2007 Dodge Dakota SLT: 161,000 miles, silver, 6’6” bed w/liner, body some rust-back fender wells. Call for details 440-2239471.

Solid Cherry Corner Desk: like new, 78” tall, 48” depth, 64” wide, paid $2,250, asking $1,480/OBO. Antique French round marble table w/4 chairs, $1,600/OBO. 440-338-3563.

MOVING MUST SELL: Yamaha electronic/digital piano, excellent condition, many features and functions, with carrying case, pedals, 2 stands, bench; $200/OBO. 440-729-3974.

Three Piece Octagon Picnic Table: made with KDAT yellow pine treated wood, with benches, new; $550. 440548-2657.

Antique spinning wheel. Yarn winder. Treadle sewing machine. Royal typewriter. TRF radio. Victrola oak floor model hand crank. Paper roll table-top organ. 440-5335292.

John Deere Lawn Tractor: Model 314, 14-HP, auto-trans, hydraulic 3-blade 46” cutting deck, w/snow plow and trailer; $1,200/OBO. 440-564-1172.

GARAGE/ESTATE SALES

Second Hand Treasures. A unique shopping place. Something for everyone! Weekly Sales: Thursday, Friday, Saturday. 9a-5p. Many $1 bargains. 9098 Old St Road, Rt.608, Chardon.

Multi-Family Sale: Jun 27-29, 9a-4p. Wilders Mobile Home Park. Tow-bar EC $150 at 226 Deer Drive. Rain/ Shine. Don’t miss it!

Jun 20-22: Th-F 8:30a-5p; Sat 8:30a-12p. 11445 Foxhaven Dr, Chesterland, off Mulberry. CASH ONLY! Vintage Levis 550, 555, 560, 36/30. Plated silver, pewter, pottery, dishes, linens. Depression glass, Corningware, old coffee pots, camera tripod, books, jewelry, brand names purses. Record player and records. Seasame Street, Garfield, Farside books. Ewok village, Hot Wheels, Matchbox, Majorette cars. Vintage sports pennants. Marbles, planters, tools. Antique S-roll top desk, brass bed, Indian items, and much misc!

Sale! Tools, glassware, crafts. Too much to list. Priced to sell. Jun 21-22, 9a-4p. 18071 Tilden, Troy, close to Rt. 700. Huge free pile.

Multi-family sale: Jun 20-22; Jun 27-29, 9a-4p. 16162 East High St., Middlefield. Office cabinets, gun safe, golf cart, motorcycle, antique tools, yard decor, sporting cards, side car, smoker, wood burner, snow blower, riding mower, garage sale stuff and much more!

Tack & Garage Sale: Jun 29, 9a-5p. 12882 Butternut Rd, Burton. English saddles, bridles, reins and misc. tack. Other household items, ladies’ and men’s shoes and boots.

Jun 20-21; Jun 28-29, 10a-4p. 12873 Manchester, Chesterland. Lincoln welder, bricks, vintage toys, Kawai organ. silver flatware, depression glass, sport jerseys, Pinnacle bike, jewelry/boxes, Hot Wheels, collectibles.

PETS & ANIMALS

Barn homes needed for semi-feral cats, as their elderly caretaker is being evicted. All cats are being fixed & vaccinated. Rebecca 440-321-2485.

MISCELLANEOUS

The Marketplace Mall is moving to a new location! The store will have a soft opening this month at the former Rite Aid in Middlefield. For more information, visit www. shopmiddlefield.com

FREE fact: U.S. buys vapes from China that contain harmful chemicals and pesticides! Sold to you and our kids near you.

REAL ESTATE

Homes & Land Wanted: any condition or situation! Fast, friendly, local. Serving Geauga and surrounding counties. Text or call Wayne at 330-269-9595.

57 acres of farmland: in Jefferson, Ashtabula county $3,800/acre. Call 330-979-2618.

RENTAL WANTED

Healthy mature senior quiet Christian female seeking Christian woman’s or a married Christian couple’s home to rent a quiet room and private bath in Chardon area. I am waiting for my subsidized senior unit to open within 3 to 9 months or maybe a bit longer. I have good references. No smoking. No pets. 619-709-0069 or g.laurel@icloud.com.

SERVICES

Albert’s Complete Tree Service: 45+yrs experience! Competent in all aspects of Arboriculture, Forestry and Land Clearing Also, Firewood, Excavation and Sewer Work. Free Estimates. 440-687-5404.

Top Shelf Construction LLC: Decks, Garages, Trim interior and exterior, Remodeling. Jonathan Fisher, 330-4423995, topshelfconstrunction@yodermail.net.

Taxi Service: 4 passengers only, for cleaning crews, short and long trips. Contact Lisa at 440-708-4835.

Did you know Karlovec Media Group prints business cards? Prices start at only $30 for 500 (B&W, 1-sided, no bleed). Call 440-729-7667 or email ads@karlovecmedia.com.

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

Mullet’s Precision Trim Work LLC: specializing in cabinetry, flooring and any interior moldings. Licensed and insured. Call 440-228-6837 for free estimate.

Doing in-home Elder Care: laundry, cleaning, personal care. Certified with references. 440-313-1804.

Tree Stump Grinding: no job too big or small! Reasonable rates, 30 years experience. Please call for free estimate 440-376-8733.

WANTED TO BUY

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

4-wheelers, 3-wheelers, dirt bikes, mini-bikes, go-carts, golf carts, gators, farm tractors/equipment, trailers, riding mowers, snowplows. Paying cash. 440-413-3119.