Opinion page 10
Sports page 14
Obituaries pages 17
Sheriff’s Sales & Legal Notices start on page 20
Classifieds start on page 22
Adam Litke raised concerns at the county board of health meeting Aug. 23 about the cost of rent in the county offices.
“I was approached by the county’s ad ministrator team. They’re looking at our rent number for next year. My understand ing is, starting next year, their current num ber is about $8-a-square-foot, which for our space, (comes to) about $58,000 a year,” Litke said, adding there is a possibility they could give over part of the space to the county IT team, which would bring their rent to about $50,000.
Litke said they could also significantly condense space by introducing hybrid workfrom-home models, a change board member Dr. Ashley Jones believed could work.
Despite this, she still stressed the importance of having a face in the office.
“I do think clerical staff needs to be here and needs to be here daily. I think if you rotate staff, it’s your field work, in spections, things like that, but because when we went into our agreement, the biggest thing that we emphasized was that there will still be a face for Geauga County in Geauga County, in this build ing, and I think that’s something we have to maintain,” she said.
GPH was previously based at 470 Center Street in Chardon, where they did not have to pay rent. When the offices moved to a new building on Ravenwood Drive, GPH initially did not want to move with them, but were unable to find suitable space elsewhere.
“I think all three of us (board members Caroline Brakey, Jones, Lynn Roman) had some real concerns about moving to this space without a lease agreement,” said Brakey of the move.
Roman expressed irritation over the lack of transparency GPH has been given in their transition to the new location.
“I am very irritated because we tried to understand what rent would be and no one would give us an answer, and then they designed the space and never included us in the discussions about the space,” Roman said, adding the $58,000 number is unacceptable.
Jones questioned if their rent price is comparable to what others in the building are paying.
“My understanding is that is what the building will (cost) unless you’re (with) the (Geauga) County Commissioners. If you’re under them, you don’t pay because you’re already under their guise,” Litke responded.
Although he said he hasn’t yet asked to see contracts for those not under the hiring authority of the county commissioners, Litke said to the best of his understanding, everyone else will also have to pay $8 per square foot.
Roman questioned if this means GPH is paying almost the full bill, adding the issue
from page 1 flames were 40 feet up in the air,” he said. Reed said it is possible the truck was moving at high speed when it failed to negotiate a
that it makes no sense whatsoever for us to be paying for space that doesn’t efficiently work for us,” Rood said. “And if we are paying for space that either we are not using, or design is so poor that it doesn’t work for us, then we should be trying to get out of that space to the extent possible.”
Litke said he would not be entering into anything at this time, but needed the input of the board on such a major financial decision.
In other board business, Litke brought up concerns being raised in Geauga and Lake counties regarding COVID-19 guidance for schools. The board has continued to maintain its stance that, without a catastrophic event, masking should be left up to a student’s family.
“In essence, I think you guys know my opinion. Unless we see deaths or we see something catastrophic like massive hospital intakes, I don’t see a reason why we have schools mask kids,” Litke said, adding the board can always reassess if circumstances change.
Litke recommended making a public statement in order to inform and reassure the public. GPH later issued the following guidance for COVID-19 during the school
curve, went off the road and hit a utility pole.
The pole came down on the truck and the resulting fire engulfed a nearby tree, he said.
“It was a very bad wreck,” Reed said, adding it was not weather-related and he was not able to identify the victim at the scene.
“The truck was so damaged and the li-
affirm(ing) each family’s right to make its own decisions regarding student masking,’” the statement read. “The guidance also advised students to remain in the classroom after known exposure to COVID-19 if they were symptom-free and did not have a positive test result.
“Recently, GPH has been hearing increasing community concerns that compulsory masking and other prior COVID-19 procedures may return to Geauga County,” it continued. “In last year’s guidance, we expressly stated our aim to ‘revert back to a pre-pandemic education and community experience ... regardless of student vaccination status.’ The decision-making autonomy of families should be respected. GPH affirms the reversion to a pre-pandemic education and community experience and discourages — in the strongest possible terms — the resumption of any prior COVID-19 school restrictions.”
GPH said it will continue to monitor the COVID-19 situation in the county and reassess its guidance as necessary.
“Schools can also reference Ohio Department of Health and Centers for Disease Control and Prevention for additional information,” GPH added.
cense plate was melted,” he said.
The accident occurred 0.1 miles west of state Route 86, said Ohio State Highway Patrol Trooper Joseph Sanfilippo said Aug. 29.
Sherwood was eastbound at the time of the crash and beer cans were found in the vehicle, he said.
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Munson Township Trustee Jim McCaskey asked fellow trustees to accept a letter from the Munson Township Fire Company sent months ago that would cancel its contract with the township on Sept. 30.
The letter was submitted in the spring when several trustees meetings with fire officials present ended in a stalemate.
Issues included access to the company trustees’ meeting minutes, changes to the company’s bylaws and placing a levy on the November ballot to support the department.
The contract includes a clause allowing cancelation by either party with 90-days’ notice.
“I understand we got this letter from the chief dated previously. I think we should be thinking about it,” McCaskey said, adding he had questions.
“I don’t know where we are at. We have this letter still in our possession,” he said. “We need to get our ducks in a row.”
The contract says the company “will” cancel the contract on Sept. 30, not “may,” he noted.
“We need to address it so we can talk to the fire department,” McCaskey said.
Trustees Irene McMullen and Andy Bushman were not convinced.
“I don’t see how we can act on these without (Fire Chief) Mike (Vatty) here,” Bushman said.
McMullen suggested delaying the discussion.
“I feel like it would be wise for each trustee individually to come up with a list of essential characteristics of any contract we might try to have with the fire department going forward,” she said, adding they could take the next three weeks to make their lists.
“We can discuss that ... as an alternative to just accepting the letter,” she said. “It’s my intention to put it on the agenda for the next meeting. I’ll have a list of my priorities.”
Bushman said the current contract is still in place.
“I hope it stays in place. We have to put it on the table and talk about it,” McCaskey said.
Bushman, board liaison to the fire department, questioned the necessity of the topic.
“I have done that and I don’t believe they are intending to cancel the contract,” he said.
Bushman voted “no” on the motion to bring the letter to the table, but McMullen and McCaskey voted “yes.”
McMullen said the company’s new bylaws, which could lead to amendments to the contract, have to be approved by the township trustees to be incorporated.
During public comment, resident Glen Kinter said he felt like the timing of the motion is poor since the fire department is trying to get a levy passed in November.
“It’s unfair that you brought it up without fire department representation,” he said, adding trustees know Vatty’s work schedule and that he couldn’t be at the meeting.
Kenston Schools Superintendent Steve Sayers provided an update to the board of education Aug. 22 on the additional five-year, 1.35-mill permanent improvement levy the district has placed on the November ballot.
Kenston is one of only 13% of school districts in Ohio that does not have a per manent improvement levy to protect the community’s investment in school facilities, he said.
“If this levy is approved, the levy will provide a revenue stream that will help us to maintain our buildings, our grounds, as well as our transportation fleet,” Sayers said.
“It’s also important to note that in recent years, the district has taken approximately $575,000 per year from our general operating budget to support these permanent improvements. If the levy is approved, it would eliminate the need to take these funds from the general operating fund, which otherwise would be used to support our general instructional program.”
The levy, if passed, would generate an estimated $1,265,000 per year and would cost homeowners $47 per year per $100,000 property valuation, according to the Geauga County Auditor’s Office.
Approximately 90% of the districts in Ohio have a permanent improvement levy and funds can be utilized for items such as school buses, repairs to roofs and parking lots, boilers, safety upgrades, classroom furniture, technology upgrades and improvements and wireless upgrades, which have a life span of five years or more, according to the district’s website.
Sayers said the funds that would be generated from the levy would support the district’s 2023 strategic plan, which the board adopted this past spring.
“The strategic plan is serving as a blueprint for the future of our school district. Also, I wanted to mention that taking into consideration the declining enrollment of about 650 students in our district since
2009,” Sayers said. “Along with using the new strategic plan as our compass, the administrative team is currently in a process of developing a plan that if and when coupled with funds that are generated by the levy, if approved, would place the district on a path of long-term financial stability.”
Revenue from a permanent improvement levy cannot be used for salaries, benefits or the school district’s day-to-day operations.
“Funds that are generated from this levy would enable the district to focus on the permanent improvements, while at the same time streamlining our operations without compromising our educational program,” Sayers said. “We will have more information and an update at next month’s board meeting.”
A large crowd of residents packed Chester Township Hall Aug. 24 to oppose the Geauga County Board of Developmental Disabilities’ plans to lease additional space in properties it owns to county agencies and other organizations.
The board already leases one of two houses on a 10-acre property to Emerald Rose, an independent nonprofit care provider for people with developmental disabilities that also operates as Emerald Woods. In addition, President and CEO Joy Black operates Joy’s Place, an assisted living facility in Chardon.
GCBDD Superintendent Don Rice told trustees in 1975, the Bessie Benner Metzenbaum Foundation built four houses on the property, which a deed restriction states can only be used for residents with developmental disabilities.
However, the buildings are no longer appropriate to house GCBDD residents and the board has faced issues when offering the space to other county agencies, Rice said.
“We looked at another county agency who has needs and said, ‘We have two empty buildings, are you interested?’” Rice said, referring to the Geauga County Board of Mental Health and Recovery Services.
But the deed restriction the foundation put in place is presenting problems with attempts to lease the buildings, since the orga-
nization was formally disbanded in 2003.
Rice said the GCBDD told Geauga County Commissioners the mental health board, which has the funds to staff and maintain the buildings, was interested in leasing their extra space. However, when he and other board members attempted to find out more about the property, they discovered the foundation ceased to exist 20 years ago, Rice said, adding lawyers are currently discussing how to address the deed restrictions.
“The situation is such that the agency that created that deed restriction is defunct,” he said. “We’re not even sure where things go from this point as far as the deed restriction goes.”
Mental health board Executive Director Christine Lakomiak said she and Chairman Steve Oluic went to take a look at the property in March, and the board was considering
applying for a grant to lease the space.
Lakomiak said since that time, the mental health board decided the building will not work after reviewing the space and requirements from the state.
“We did take the offer to look at the building, but we have not even been able to have a conversation because it takes a while to write the grant, to see if you get the grants and then see what is available,” she said. “That (building) was an option that we looked at and we still don’t have anything in mind.”
Chester Township Fiscal Officer Patricia Jarrett told Rice the current lease to Emerald Rose violates township zoning rules.
“I can’t control what goes on that property because it’s government (property) and basically, the commissioners can do whatever they want with it. I don’t agree with having someone that is not (a government entity) on
that property renting,” Jarrett said. “You are the landlord. They’re not paying real estate taxes. We don’t get real estate taxes for that. If they went anywhere else, they would have to pay us real estate taxes and they would have to adhere to our zoning. They are not. It is unfair and it’s unfair to anyone else that is in their business.”
The township would miss out on property taxes if Emerald Rose was not leasing the space, Rice told Jarrett.
“There’d be a building that I’d be paying utilities for and other things for, which would actually cost us,” Rice said.
Jarret asked Rice if it would be possible to sell the property instead and put it back on the township’s tax roll.
“We’re still stuck with the same deed restriction,” he replied. “That would be the commissioners’ decision to sell it. We don’t own the property, the commissioners own the property. It will always be county property.”
Black, who was present at the meeting, said she believes her organization does not have to pay residential taxes.
“Yes, you do,” Jarret said to Black. “You’re not a church, you’re not government and you’re not a school. You are going to pay real estate taxes.”
Emerald Rose Trustee Heather Weikum said she will look into the zoning code, adding she didn’t know there was a deed restriction.
“We will look into it and we will work something out,” Weikum said.
Geauga County Commissioner Jim Dvorak also attended the meeting.
from page 1
“This program really saved my life,” Kozelka said. “It hasn’t always been easy.”
The New Leaf Program is a 16-to-24month drug court program Paschke started in in June 2019 and is certified by the Ohio Supreme Court Specialized Docket Section. It has has 16 graduates so far.
“It is a much-needed service to help the people that can’t help themselves,” Geauga County Sheriff Scott Hildenbrand said. “I commend Judge Paschke for taking the drug court to where it is today — very successful. It is amazing the number of professionals involved and the number of people that we have made a difference in. These graduations prove that the drug court is making a difference.”
Paschke began the graduation ceremony last week by quoting an inspirational story about growing good corn called, “My Neighbor’s Corn,” by Naren Kini.
“There was once a farmer who grew excellent quality corn. Every year, he won the award for the best corn. One year, a newspaper reporter interviewed him and learned something interesting about how he grew it. The reporter discovered that the farmer shared his seeds with his neighbors.
“’How can you afford to share your best seed corn with your neighbors when they are entering in competition with yours each year?’ the reporter asked.
“’Why sir,’” said the farmer, ’Don’t you know? The wind picks up pollen from the ripening corn and swirls it from field to field. If my neighbors grow inferior corn, cross-pollination will steadily degrade the quality of my corn. If I am to grow good corn, I must help my neighbors grow good corn.’
“So, it is with our lives. Those who want to live meaningfully and well must help enrich the lives of others, for the value of a life is measured by the lives it touches. The quality of response and joy depends on the quality of thoughts and love we share and spread. And those who choose to be joyful must help others find happiness, for the welfare of each is bound up with the welfare of all.”
“(Kini) is very much aware of the connectiveness of life,” Paschke said. “The lesson is if we are to grow good corn, we must help our neighbor’s grow good corn.”
Geauga County Probation Officer Greg Potts also presented the Mitch Libster Award to Janet Amstutz, an intake officer for Northeast Ohio Community Alternative Program.
The annual award recognizes an individual for outstanding contributions to the Geauga County community.
Prior to her 14 years at NEOCAP, she retired from the Adult Parole Authority as a senior parole officer.
The award is on behalf of Potts; stepfather, Libster, who dedicated his career to helping others.
“I truly am honored to receive this award,” Amstutz, said as her voice quivered.
Specialized Docket Coordinator Maureen Maruna, of the Geauga County Court of Common Pleas, said she has worked with Amstutz for nearly 20 years and is very deserving of the award.
Other New Leaf Program treatment team members in the audience applauded Amstutz’s recognition.
“I believe every treatment team member has the same goal and that is to help others overcome obstacles that lead the participants to their drug addiction,” Maruna said. “In short, we are all here for the right reason and not just to collect a paycheck. In addition, we see the participants as ‘a person and not just a case number.’ We understand that we will not be able to help everyone, but just one graduate can touch many lives in the community (such as the pollen in the story).”
Michelle Bertman, Catholic Charities director for Geauga and Lake counties, gathered at the Rockin’ with Resources tent.
She said although Catholic Charities does not have a current, direct partnership with the New Leaf Program, it fully believes in its mission.
“Geauga County is wonderfully unique in how well community organizations support and collaborate with one another. Catholic Charities offers programming that has helped and will continue to help any participants of the New Leaf Program,” Bertman said, noting its behavioral health counseling services, which provide mental health and substance abuse assessments, as an example.
Additionally, they have case management for their Self Sufficiency Program, which assists individuals to remove barriers from employment or anything that may hinder their ability to sustain self-sufficiency and an Emergency Assistance Program, which coordinates resources with other local agencies to provide help for utilities, rental assistance and various other needs.
“The New Leaf graduates last evening all talked about feeling supported by this community, which was wonderful to hear,” Bertman said. “This really is a testament to how our ongoing collaborations throughout Geauga County really work to help those in need, especially individuals trying to make a better life for themselves and their families. All the social service agencies of Geauga County do excellent work at providing needed services.”
across the state and in Geauga County Aug. 25 due to power outages, including Chardon, Berkshire, Cardinal, West Geauga, Kenston and Chagrin Falls school districts.
“FirstEnergy’s Ohio electric companies have made significant progress restoring power to more than 310,000 customers in Northeast Ohio who were impacted by (last) Thursday night’s storm,” said Lauren Siburkis, supervisor of state and regulatory communications for FirstEnergy in a statement. “While they continue working 24/7 to restore service, free water and ice are available to customers without power at several local Giant Eagle locations beginning at 12 p.m. (Aug. 28) (Aug. 28) to 12 p.m. Aug. 31, or until supplies run out.
“With assistance from more than 2,000 outside resources, FirstEnergy crews continue working around the clock in 16-hour shifts to restore service to about 10,000 customers who remain without power in the region,” Siburkis added.
Customers who remain without power can pick up one bag of ice and two gallons of water free of charge at the Giant Eagle location in Bainbridge Township at 8515 Tanglewood Square and in Chardon at 351 Center St.
‘Pretty
Middlefield Village Fire Department saw its share of action when an EF-2 tornado ripped through Huntsburg and Middlefield early Aug. 25.
The NWS confirmed the tornado started near the intersection of Burton-Windsor Road and lifted near the intersection of state Route 608 and Nauvoo Road in Middlefield.
Fire Chief Joe Tucholski said power was out from Lake Street to Glen Valley and Capt. Ben Reed was on shift went it hit.
“I woke up when the tornado sirens went off and our power went out,” Reed said in a phone call Aug. 28. “Sirens in the whole county went off, one after the other. I looked outside and the whole town was pitch black.”
There were five or six utility poles down on state Route 528 north of Mayfield Road, but getting there was a nightmare because trees were down on every road and his crew had to keep taking alternate roads to go north, he said.
When they arrived, they found more than poles in the road.
“We had one car on a pole. The pole was knocked over and the driver didn’t see it,” Reed said. The car apparently drove over the pole and got stuck there.
“The driver couldn’t get out because of live wires. We had to wait until CEI de-energized the wires,” he said, adding CEI personnel arrived quickly because of the danger to the driver, who was local.
The driver wasn’t hurt and after getting
him out of the vehicle, the firefighters got the car off the pole and continued at the site.
“I had an extra guy on my shift — something we do when storms are predicted — so I split the crew,” he said. “Two of us waited at the car wreck while the others went around to check little stuff.”
They closed Route 528 between Nauvoo and Peters roads for quite a while and between Mayfield and Huntley roads until about 4 a.m.
Once they got the car off the pole, the firefighters had a little time to regroup, then dispatch alerted again — and again, Reed said.
“It was call after call. Some were very immediate hazards,” Reed said. “It was pretty wicked.”
Several roads were closed throughout the county due to downed trees, and there was a house fire in Chester Township, as well, said Geauga County Sheriff Scott Hildenbrand.
“There was widespread damage to FirstEnergy power lines last night,” Chester Fire Chief William Shaw said Aug. 25. “I do not have an estimate on the number of homes without power. We also had a structure fire with lightning as the suspected cause.”
In a follow-up interview, Shaw said a call came in for smoke in a house in the 8900 block of Wilson Mills Road.
“They did have flames on the outside of the house and smoke coming from the garage area of the home,” he said. “It started on the outside of the house right around the electrical meter. We believe it was a lightning strike. All indications are that had something to do with the lightning strike either on the house or in the immediate area. The fire burned up the side of the garage and then got up into the eaves and then went across the attic and into the garage and into the house.”
Chester deployed two fire engines and a tanker, Shaw said, adding they initially could only have five personnel on scene when they normally would have 15 to 20.
“When we put out the request for assistance, pretty much everybody we called was busy with their own calls,” Shaw said. “It’s every fire officer’s worst nightmare that you’re calling for help and the answer is no. We don’t face that challenge very often, but unfortunately, due to the weather and the conditions, that’s what we had to face that day.”
Shaw said the residents had already evacuated the home — which sustained an estimated $175,000 in damage — so they started to fight the fire as best they could with limited resources.
“Eventually, we did get sufficient amount of resources there,” he said. “But they had to come from as far away as Beachwood and Lyndhurst.”
Neighboring Newbury Township Fire Chief Ken Fagan said his firefighters had been out on the roads Aug. 25 since 12:30 a.m. and had to close Bell Street, Music Street and a portion of state Route 44.
“One large tree fell across 44. It took us
45 minutes to cut it up,” Fagan said. “We drove a little further and there was another tree down.”
The chief said one firefighter left his house on Munn Road and had trees down both north and south of his driveway.
“It was bad,” he said.
The EF-1 tornado just southeast of Chardon began near the intersection of Aquilla Road and Tewksbury Lane and lifted on the east side of Taylor Wells Road, according to the NWS.
In Chardon, Fire Chief Justin Geiss said his crews were “still out here trying to get roads closed” last Friday.
“At approximately 12 a.m. Aug. 25, 2023, severe storms with the potential of producing tornadoes moved through Geauga County. The Chardon Fire Department responded to over 27 calls for service in the following 12 hours,” Geiss said in a statement. “These calls included people trapped in vehicles, power lines down, trees on buildings and small fires caused by downed powerlines. Thankfully, no injuries were reported from the storm, however, many residents have a long road ahead of them to clean up and repair their property.
“We have ensured all residents have access to their homes by assisting with clearing downed trees and debris from driveways.
Chester from page 4
“I’m willing to do anything I can to help the mentally ill,” he said.
Dvorak said mental illness and drug use are growing problems, and he will do anything he can to help make a deal between agencies to help those in Geauga County who struggle with those issues.
Numerous Chester residents expressed their feelings on the situation.
“There’s not any true way of accountability to the community of what’s going on,” resident Cindy Valentine said. “That is one issue. The big issue is the subleasing to somebody that doesn’t follow zoning, that isn’t accountable to whoever’s regulating them or watching over (them). That’s why I’m here, and that’s why I think a lot of people are here.”
Resident Anita Zurcher said it doesn’t matter who created the deed restriction, it still exists and it limits the property to being used for
This also allows emergency vehicles to access the homes in the event of an emergency,” Geiss added. “As the clean-up continues, many roads are still closed due to hazardous conditions and (we) would like to remind motorists to please respect road closed signs and find an alternative route.”
Geiss said his staff’s thoughts are with all the residents who sustained property damage.
“Please take the time to check on your neighbors, especially the elderly,” he said. In the event you have a medical condition that may worsen due to lack of electricity, please don’t hesitate to call for assistance. We will continue to monitor the situation and will update the public with any new information we receive.”
Bainbridge Fire Chief Lou Ann Metz said her crew responded to 24 calls over a twoday period after the storm, which included an EF-1 tornado that began over the west part of Laurel Springs subdivision and dissipated along Taylor May Road just west of Haskins Road, according to the NWS.
“It’s just been normal storm clean up,” she said. “It’s basically the utility companies that are having to do everything. We don’t have any part in that. I know there was a lot of damage on Taylor May Road there. There were a lot of people without power.”
Staff writers Ann Wishart, Brian Doering and Amy Patterson contributed to this article.
the purpose it was originally intended.
“It’s for people with developmental disabilities, period,” Zurcher said.
However, Rice told Zurcher the buildings are no longer needed for the purposes they originally were used for.
“There are people with developmental disabilities who cannot live in a regular neighborhood setting. They cannot,” Zurcher said.
“I can’t go into specifics because of client confidentiality, so there is no way that I’m going to make those types of debates with you,” Rice continued. “I can tell you that we have 13 people living in the house right now. Everybody else in Geauga County is being served out of the community.”
Trustee Craig Richter said the GCBDD serves the developmentally disabled in Geauga County and he appreciates what they do.
“What I wanted to accomplish tonight was to bring out to our public the fact that they were renting houses, and a possibility that the Mental Health Board was going to use two. That’s all I wanted to bring out,” Richter said.
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At a second hearing held before the Geauga County Budget Commission Aug. 28, Geauga County Commissioner Tim Lennon said he agreed the county should adjust its budgeting process to get ahead of funding requests that can grow out of control.
The hearing was held to continue discussions from the Aug. 21 budget hearing, during which commissioners complained about money budget commission members — Geauga County Treasurer Chris Hitchcock, Auditor Chuck Walder and Prosecutor Jim Flaiz — said could be used to improve the conditions of deteriorating county buildings on Chardon Square, but are instead sitting in unused county funds.
The budget commission also took issue with the county’s approach to its finances, which often leads to departmental budget requests being canceled out only to be returned after carryover balances hit in January or — to the consternation of the commission — late in the year after budgets have already been set.
“In response to the last meeting with the county commissioners, the (commissioners) increased their revenue forecasts for the current year, which will then impact their estimated cash carryover beginning balance for their 2024 budget,” budget commission members said in an Aug. 29 email.
“The budget commission took action to increase the revenue on certain line items on the (commissioners’) 2024 budget, the goal being to get a more realistic number of how much cash they are carrying over.
The budget commission was also requesting (commissioners) go on the timeline that the state uses to submit that budget with their hearings, if they so choose to have hearings.”
County Finance Director Adrian Gorton said part of the county’s issue comes from an older budget philosophy that was in place before he took on his role.
In the past, the commissioners’ budget was set up to distribute unappropriated balances to departments on an as-needed basis, he said, adding this meant the county’s unencumbered cash balance looked, from the outside, to be essentially zero.
“We consistently had zero unappropriated balance in the general fund, which, an unappropriated balance becomes the estimated beginning balance,” Gorton explained. “So, we were always (appearing to have) zero and always having, you know, many millions of dollars left over.”
Flaiz said the problem had gotten better, but the county’s ending predicted balance for 2023 is $341,000, when he expects it to be between $8 and $10 million.
“I think in the budget presentation, I estimated about $8.5 million,” Gorton said, adding he thinks the county also got a little behind on raising sales tax revenue estimates.
In the week between hearings, commissioners approved the certification of an additional $3 million in sales tax revenue, which should be guaranteed based on spending and inflation, Walder said last week.
A previous county administrator told Gorton to budget conservatively by stripping out budget requests to keep the year-ending balance to zero, he said, adding one year, the administrator estimated a year-end carryover cash balance of $5 million.
“The $5 million that he was predicting was $14 million,” Walder said. “The actual was $14 million. So, we’re guessing on a guess with a guess. And we’re off by orders of magnitude that are just phenomenal.”
Last week, the budget commission also criticized the county’s practice of reviewing
department and agency budget requests in late fall after the state’s deadlines to report budgets, but before carryover balances are known.
“I would like to see us change that practice (to) where we try and get in front of it. I know there are Ohio Revised Code deadlines when (the budget) needs to be submitted by,” Lennon said, adding if the county does its budgeting process earlier in the year, they could do a recap in the fall or use that time to go over changes in big-ticket items.
“But, I would like to see us make a shift to get in front of that process,” he said.
In response to budget commission concerns over improvements to offices in the Courthouse Annex and Opera House on Chardon Square, County Administrator Gerry Morgan said he will provide the commission with a timeline of capital projects.
A budget presentation in June showed commissioners intend to build a senior center, as well as spend about $4 million to improve its facilities, including those remaining in Chardon.
The budget commission will convene for a final time to discuss the county’s budget — this time with approval expected — on Aug. 30.
The Geauga Park District’s 2024 tax budget submission received positive feedback from Geauga County Budget Commission members during its hearing on Aug. 22.
Geauga County Prosecutor Jim Flaiz, who sits on the commission along with Treasurer Chris Hitchcock and Auditor Chuck Walder, said GPD’s budget submission was “10,000% better” than it had been in previous years.
“I actually think you are trying to right the ship because you are showing an estimated beginning balance next year of $1.7
million,” Flaiz said, adding fixing mistakes of “horrible budgeting” in the past can’t be done in one budget cycle.
“It looks like you took a 50% step up, and I commend you for that,” Flaiz said. “And I hope that is a trend we see next year.”
Walder said he is glad GPD has been dealing directly with staff members in his department, including through prior correspondence in preparation for that day’s hearing.
“They seem to be at least reporting to me that everything appears to be going as it should,” Walder said.
“In response to the last meeting with the County Commissioners the (commissioners) increased their revenue forecasts for the current year, which will then impact their estimated cash carryover beginning balance for their 2024 Budget.
– Aug. 29 email from the GCBC
After a years-long battle with Bainbridge Township officials, Kelly’s Working Well Farm and the Chagrin Valley Learning Collective has been officially designated an agritourist entity Aug. 24.
Geauga County Common Pleas Judge Carolyn Paschke ruled in favor of the farm and collective, which were last in court for a bench trial Feb. 7 over a legal dispute with Bainbridge Township regarding the agritourist character of their businesses.
“This decision is vindicating for us in a lot of ways,” said Kelly Clark, founder of Kelly’s Working Well Farm. “We’re thankful that the court looked at all the evidence and ultimate ly agreed with what we have been saying for
a long time, that the programming we offer to kids is deeply connected with the fact that this is a working permaculture farm. I hope that this decision can be a launchpad for tying up any remaining disputes we have with the township, and we look forward to continuing to host CVLC for years to come.”
Paschke said the immersive farm programs held on the farm property constituted “agritourism” under Ohio law, and that such programming is protected by Ohio’s agritourism statute, as well as the court’s previous directives, according to a press release from Andrew J. Karas, Clark’s attorney.
“Judge Paschke stated that she ‘can only conclude the farm and collective are engaged in agritourism.’ She moreover rejected the township’s argument that activities held on
or ‘daycare,’ he said in the statement.
Clark and her husband, William Roe, owners of the farm at 16519 S. Franklin St., have been embroiled in numerous disputes with the township over the past few years, which have included fire code violations.
They purchased their 6-acre parcel of land in Bainbridge in July of 2012 and have since filed to incorporate the farm as an Ohio nonprofit established for agricultural education purposes.
Paschke’s decision will allow the farm to continue holding summer camp, as well as hosting the CVLC, both of which have been threatened by the township’s enforcement efforts spanning back to 2019.
“I think we feel vindicated and we think the judge’s opinion, by and large, agrees with
ing at the farm for a very long time,” Karas said, adding he hopes the decision resolves the threshold question of “is this agriculture or not.”
“We are hoping that it can be a springboard to bringing the township back to the table with us to work through the remaining issues in good faith,” Karas said. “There are still fire citations that the township has been a little obstinate in working through with us. We’re hoping this decision brings them back to the table on those sorts of issues so that’s where our focus is for now.”
Bainbridge Township Trustee Jeff Markley said the township has a right to appeal the decision and the discussion is currently being held with attorneys.
“It’s still with our legal team, that’s all I
The first Chester Township Unity Day brought out a steady stream of families from around Geauga County and lots of active youth to enjoy the summer weather Aug. 27.
Children and adults alike explored fire trucks and ambulances from Chester and sur rounding townships while Chester’s ladder truck proudly flew an American flag.
Members of the West Geauga High School band played the National Anthem and a few other numbers designed to unify groups from Newbury Township, the Chester area and West Geauga Schools.
“We’re really trying to bring Newbury in,” said Kevin Rauscher, treasurer of the West Geauga Chamber of Commerce, referring to Newbury being included in the footprint of West Geauga Schools after the districts joined in 2020.
The chamber, he said, is workign on out reach to businesses to the east. “We want to bring something to the community,” he said, listing some of the businesses in all three townships – Newbury, Chester and Russell –who sponsored Unity Day in the parking lot of West Geauga High School.
Chester Police Chief Craig Young took the microphone to thank a variety of individ uals who helped organize the event.
“Welcome to our first of, hopefully, many Chester Township Unity Days,” he said. “With the storms that tore through here on Thursday, it’s refreshing to have a beautiful, sunny day to celebrate the people of this great community.”
Young also thanked West Geauga Schools Superintendent Richard Markwardt for collaborating on the location.
“I can say without hesitation that the relationship between the West Geauga Schools, this community and our safety forces is unlike any I have seen anywhere. To have the leadership of a school district so committed to getting things accomplished when others just simply say it can’t be done is unique.”
He praised his officers’ commitment to the community and their selfless sacrifice .
“I consider myself very fortunate to work alongside our officers and very fortunate to be a law enforcement leader in Geauga County,” he said. “We talk about our core values a lot – integrity, professionalism, teamwork, innovation, respect and, perhaps most important of all, empathy. These values are not only the cornerstone of this agency, I feel they are
Chester Township Trustee Ken Radtke, a member of the chamber, said the chamber has been working very hard to create a day of uni ty for the district. He recognized Rachel Kali na, Lindsey Greene, Tonya Peto and chamber President Steve DiFranco for their efforts.
Children chased bubbles, jumped and laughed in the bounce house and squirmed their way through another inflated gymnastic course. Dozens of booths offered a variety of services and some tasty baked goods. Parents took pictures of toddlers on huge earth-mov ing equipment.
Gazing across the parking lot at the hap py crowd, Jim Metcalf, vice president of the Kiwanis Group of West Geauga, said they welcome new members. The club meets at 7 p.m. Tuesdays at Eddie’s Fruit Farm during the summer.
“Give us a call,” he said.
be done to reduce their balance.
Following discussion with Middlefield Village Fiscal Officer Nick Giardina, he made a motion to suspend collection for one year for the ambulance fund.
“I’m not against it. Jess (Jessica Giardina)
and I, like Jess said, when we first started, it was even higher amounts,” Nick said, noting there had previously been overcollection and
Geauga County commissioners Jim Dvorak and Tim Lennon approved a resolution recognizing Aug. 31 as International Overdose Awareness Day at their meeting Aug. 22.
Geauga County Board of Mental Health and Recovery Services Executive Director Christine Lakomiak appeared before commissioners to share her appreciation for recognizing the world’s largest annual campaign to end overdoses.
“Our theme is we honor the people whose lives have been altered by overdose,” Lakomiak said. “They (include) family and friends grieving the loss of loved ones, workers and health care and support services extending strength and compassion, or spontaneous first-responders who selflessly assume the role of a lifesaver.”
Each year on Aug. 31, International Overdose Awareness Day aims to raise awareness of overdose, reduce the stigma of a drug-related death and acknowledge the grief felt by families and friends. The day also exists to help remember those who have died or had a permanent injury due to a drug overdose.
According to the National Coalition Against Prescription Drug Abuse, one organization which participates in the worldwide campaign, the aim is to raise awareness of overdose. The NCAPDA says overdose is one of the world’s worst public health crises, and
it hopes the campaign can stimulate action and discussion about evidence-based overdose prevention and drug policy, according to their website at www.ncapda.org.
Lakomiak said the board was able to receive some money from the Ohio Department of Mental Health and Addiction Services to participate in the campaign, which she said also acknowledges the profound grief felt by families and friends whose loved ones have died or suffered permanent injury from a drug overdose.
The funds helped purchase Deterra drug disposal bags, which allow for the deactivation and safe disposal of prescription drugs.
“One of the ways to stop overdose is to dispose of your unused medication safely. Those bags, you fill up with medications you’re not using halfway. It only takes three seconds and then you dispose of that in your regular trash,” Lakomiak said. “We’re really fortunate to be able to have those.”
Lakomiak said the board is working in partnership with Lake Geauga Recovery Center, which on Aug. 31 will host an event with giveaways at their facility.
“We will also be at the Great Geauga County Fair providing a lot of different giveaways to the community. The deterra bags are one of them,” Lakomiak said. “The theme is really trying to do resource navigation so that people know where to call for support and help specifically to those who have lost loved ones so that they’re not fighting this alone.”
they were now voluntarily collecting less. As the budget could not be approved at the hearing, Walder said it could instead be
signed at an upcoming meeting.
A small amount of contention also arose when it came to Aquilla Village’s budget.
“You have a lot of cash in your general fund,” Hitchcock told Aquilla Village officials. “Your actual expenses in 2022 were $33,000. You’re gonna spend a little more than that. But you got over $75,000 in cash. Real cash.”
Hitchcock added Aquilla has over two years’ worth of funding without additional tax revenue.
“You do not need to have two years’ worth of money sitting idly,” he told them.
Flaiz offered a different take on the matter.
“I agree with Chris that your cash balance is high compared to what your yearly expenses are, but then on the flip side, I feel like you’re one semi-catastrophic event from happening and being like, completely bankrupt,” Flaiz said.
Walder noted Aquilla has recently changed fiscal officers and was able to present a coherent budget in a very short time span despite that change. The Commission wished them luck.
Recently I had the good fortune to attend a private event at Hale Farm and Village Living Museum in Peninsula, Ohio.
When the staff gave us such outstanding service and arranged our private room in such a lovely and welcoming way, I was inspired to ask for their calendar of upcoming events. It is quite impressive and I encourage people to attend the excellent programs.
Eileen Marie Russell TownshipDear little boy of mine? (Tom Paxton music: 1962). I: I learned that Washington never told a lie, I learned that soldiers seldom die, I learned that everybody’s free, That’s what the teacher said to me, And that’s what I learned in school today.
II: What did you learn in school today, dear little boy of mine? I learned that policeman are my friends, I learned that justice never ends, I learned that murderers die for their crimes, even if we make a mistake sometimes, And that’s what I learned in school today.
III: What did you learn in school today, dear little boy of mine. I learned our government must be strong, it’s always right and never wrong, Our leaders are the finest men, And we elect them again and again, And that’s what I learned in school today.
IV: What did you learn in school today, dear little boy of mine? I learned that war is not so bad, I learned about the great ones we have had, we fought in Germany and in France, and someday I might get my chance, and that’s what I learned in school today.
David Hancock Chester TownshipIn defense of Steve Demetriou, State Rep, District 35, I would like to clarify a letter written by Janet Carson.
Janet is the chair for the Geauga County Democratic Party; president, Ohio Democratic County Chairs Association.
Steve Demetriou was invited to speak at our Church of the Holy Angels on State Issue 1. Steve is a well-respected representative and had knowledge about State Issue 1 that he shared with our parishioners and guests, as there were many people looking for clarification on State Issue 1.
We live in a country that is a constitutional republic and not a democracy. State Issue 1 lost by a narrow margin of 52% to 48% in Geauga County.
We, as voters/Americans, must stand up to people who do not have their facts straight. I will continue to support Steve during his term in office. I will also pray that all our state senators and representatives continue to have good morals and strive to improve our state.
Cathy Basista
Bainbridge Township
Entertaining entering the political game?
Cleverly brand your name. Get in your lane.
Whet your appetite for narcissistic fame.
Abandon your shame.
Practice a penchant to blame.
Repeat a conspiracy theory, However insane.
After all, In your chosen profession
Truth and lies are both the same.
Sheldon Firem
Hambden Township
The fifth annual Geauga Veterans Sport Fest is gathering momentum and calling all patriots to come out and support current and former members of the United States Armed Forces Sept. 9.
The event, titled, “We All Served,” kicks off at 3 p.m. in the parking lot of Great Lakes Outdoor Supply at 14855 North State Ave. in Middlefield, and includes free admission, a 50-item raffle, food, beverages and beer all day, as well as a fireworks show at 8 p.m.
“The Geauga County Sport Fest is in its fifth year and promises to be the most success ful one of the five,” said Steve Oluic, member of Veterans of Foreign Wars Post 6519 and American Legion Post 167 in Chardon.
Oluic served 27 years on active duty in the U.S. Army, retiring at the rank of lieu tenant colonel in 2010 and spending nearly 11 years overseas in Germany, Korea, Iraq, Bosnia and several other countries.
“We always hold the event on the Satur day nearest 9/11 to recognize and commem orate this tragic event,” Oluic said. “The GVSF is the greatest source of funding for the local Geauga County veterans organiza tions. These funds are used to keep the posts operational — building maintenance, utilities, insurance, etc.”
Last year’s sport fest raised more than $100,000. The monies raised are divided among the following Geauga Veterans Groups: Chardon VFW, Chardon American Legion, Middlefield VFW, Newbury American Legion, U.S. Militia Reserve Component and
visit some of Geauga veterans groups’ displays and hear from some elected officials on protecting our constitutional freedoms,” said veteran Mike Warner.
The title “We All Served” honors 23 Amish-area men who served in the U.S. military during World War II. Organizers said it was important to the area veteran community that “our Amish family” be recognized for
Europe and upon his return home, rejoined the Amish church and became a bishop.
“I feel the Geauga Veterans Sport Fest event is a great way for people to support local veterans and to win some great prizes,” Warner said. “For those who enjoy a great fireworks show, you won’t be disappointed.”
Raffle prizes include cash, firearms, ammunition, fishing and camping packages, out-
just meet some really neat people.
Event creator and Geauga County Commissioner Ralph Spidalieri added, “I am always honored and humbled to work with our veterans as they always see things as half full, not half empty. In every situation, they see a positive.”
For information on raffle tickets, visit GeaugaVets.com.
By amy patteRSon amy@kaRloveCmedia Com
Chardon Schools’ extended summer learning program was a success, said Assistant Superintendent Ed Klein and Chardon Middle School Principal Adam Tomco.
During their presentation to the Chardon Schools Board of Education Aug. 21, Klein and Tomco said 164 elementary students attended the program and 45 of the eighth-through12th-grade students who participated earned 53 credits toward high school graduation, with another 20 credits still in progress.
Klein said the older students were able to use the flexibility of the district’s summer program to demonstrate mastery of standards on a compressed schedule.
Students were also able to take assessments, including state tests, he added.
Chardon High School Assistant Principal Doug Higham served as administrator for the secondary students, he said.
“Some of the students who are involved in this at the secondary level were able to essentially knock out that credit attainment within a matter of couple weeks,” he said. “Others are continuing to work through that and those teachers and Doug Higham are continuing to work with those students as they earn those credits.”
Many students who normally struggle to be engaged in school have already made oneon-one connections with teachers through the program and are now capitalizing on those connections in the opening weeks of school, he said.
“The feedback that we’ve had from our students — and we’ve done this for a few years
Klein said future programming plans include developing skill-based classes for summer students at the secondary level.
Tomco said in his elementary program, which took place at the middle school, free breakfast was a “big hit.” Kids grabbed over 100 breakfast bags — containing Pop Tarts, cereal, fruit bars and muffins — each day.
There were also some “big wins” for kids in the program this year, including weekly walking field trips to the Geauga County Pub-
multiple Guinness Book of World Records for card throwing.
Tomco said one presentation for students, the Michigan-based Mobile Edge Production Sky Dome Planetarium, was phenomenal.
“The kids really liked that,” he said. “It’s an inflatable planetarium they come set up in your gym and then we rotated kids in and out of there all day.”
Superintendent Michael Hanlon updated the board on a shared fleet vehicle mainte-
formed in the previous quarter, as well as one-quarter of the cost of the Garage Keeper’s insurance endorsement.
“Is there markup on materials or is it just straight up?” Paterniti asked.
“We’re just providing materials at our cost and then the labor is a flat $65 (per hour),” Hanlon answered.
Paterniti encouraged revisiting the contract next year to consider possible conditional markups.
The exuberance of summer may be winding down as vacations give way to back-toschool schedules, cooler weather and the rollout of pumpkin-spiced lattes, but there is still time to get out on the water and enjoy the last remnants of summer in Geauga County.
“I would encourage anyone to get out there and give kayaking a try and have fun,” said Geauga Park District Naturalist Trevor Wearstler.
The United States has seen a tremendous increase in the popularity of outdoor recreational activities in recent years, with kayaking emerging as a top choice. According to Outdoor Industry Association participation data from 2022, recreational kayaking leads the paddle sports category in popularity.
In fact, if you’ve driven around Geauga County this summer, chances are you’ve likely spotted vehicles hauling roof racks with colorful kayaks enroute to uncharted waters.
“Kayak rentals have been steady at the Headwaters Boathouse, though over the past few years, more people have bought kayaks of their own to be able to get out more often and explore other lakes and rivers nearby,” Wearstler said.
He named for GPD parks that allow kayaking — Bass Lake Preserve in Munson (permit required), Eldon Russell Park on the Upper Cuyahoga River, Headwaters Park off state Route 608 (seasonal boat rentals and public boat launch) and Burton Wetlands
Nature Preserve (during naturalist-led park programs only). Boat-borrowing is free for Geauga residents (ID required).
GPD’s kayak/boat rental season at Headwaters Park ends Sept. 4, however, they do offer kayaking programs into the fall.
The boathouse at Headwaters Park is open Thursdays – Monday from 12 - 7 p.m., last boats out at 6 p.m. Weekend hours are 10 a.m. – 5 p.m., last boats out at 4 p.m., with an exception Aug. 31, when they will be closed.
“With large bodies of water — like Punderson (in Punderson State Park in Newbury Township) and LaDue Reservoir (Auburn and Troy townships) and a good section of the Cuyahoga River — there are a good number of places to kayak in Geauga County, and ours is one of several rental options for paddlers,” Wearstler said, adding people can safely enjoy kayaking until the fall, when water temperatures start to drop.
“Some would say there is no off-season for boating, but you’d need specialist equipment to stay safe and warm in Northeast Ohio year-round,” he said. “Here, when fall weather starts moving in, storing your kayak or boat out of the elements is a good way to extend the life of your boat. It’s what we do with the rental boats.”
Wearstler said he’s always loved the following quote by Kenneth Grahame from the novel, “The Wind in the Willows:” “Believe me, my young friend, there is nothing — absolutely nothing — half so much worth doing as simply messing about in boat.”
“And it’s true, hopping into a kayak gives
you a sense of freedom gliding over the water,” Wearstler said. “Plus, with minimal skill, one can maneuver a kayak around well enough. It’s also a great way to explore nature and get a bit of exercise, too.”
By daniel SheRRiff SpoRtS@kaRloveCmedia Com
The Kenston Bombers football team sure does love those Geauga County rivalries.
The Bombers exerted their will Aug. 25 against Geauga County foe West Geauga, winning 49-14 at Howell Field in Chesterland.
“Since day one, since I have gotten the job, high school football is all about local rivalries,” Kenston Head Coach Jeff Grubich said. “It’s special when you see the communities be proud of their teams fighting, and I enjoy it.”
When the Bombers’ 13th-year coach took the helm in 2012, West Geauga won its first showdown between its then-Chagrin Valley Conference rivals.
Since then, the shoe has been on the other foot, with Kenston (2-0, 0-0) winning the next two games before departing for the Western Reserve Conference.
Kenston and West Geauga (0-2, 0-0) dueled again in non-conference games starting in 2017, and Kenston continued having the upper hand, winning each contest through 2019.
It had been four years since the Geauga County foes met again, but the Bombers continued to be the dominant team, record ing their sixth straight victory against West Geauga.
Kenston’s offense was unstoppable, out scoring the Wolverines by a 28-0 margin in the first half, but it was their defense that
ga. The Wolverines’ own scoreless streak had reached six consecutive quarters after being shutout against Geauga County foe Chardon
Kenston’s defense capped off an electric
ine 1 after West Geauga junior wide receiver Elijah Gudger caught a 19-yard pass from sophomore quarterback Finn Keenan.
The Bombers did not break, stuffing Keenan on a quarterback keeper, then sack-
The last time the Huskies started their season 0-4 was in the fall of 2014. Cardinal would finish the season as the Division III dis trict runner-up, falling 3-0 to Northeast Ohio powerhouse Gilmour Academy.
The Huskies began this season with a trimatch against West Geauga and Garrettsville. They tested both teams, but fell short in both contests.
Their home opener Aug. 22 ended in a 3-0 loss to LaBrae.
Then second-year Head Coach Anne Mann hosted a tri-match with Chagrin Falls and Madison.
The Huskies opened their morning up against the Tigers. On the flip side, the last time the Tigers opened their season up 3-0 dated back to 2012, when they finished the season 17-7 and won their first eight matches.
Cardinal jumped out to an early 7-3 lead, forcing the Tigers to call a timeout. Senior Carissa Loucks proved to be strong behind the service line, stringing together a 4-0 run, and another strong serving performance sopho-
more Maggie Grant extended its lead to seven.
The home team went up by eight before a big block from Peyton Pierce and Lily Victerof slowed Cardinal down with its comfortable lead of 13-6.
But here came the Tigers. A strong kill from senior Isabel Nerpouni helped her team put together a 5-0 run. During the rally, Ner-
pouni recorded two kills, while freshman Molly Nightwine put together a couple aces.
Behind a 14-kill performance from sophomore Ali Puruczky, who led the team much of her freshman season, Cardinal got a 25-15 first set victory and felt on the brink of picking up their first win of the season.
The Tigers had a different plan. The sec-
ond set began much like the first, with a large Huskies lead, 10-2, after a foot fault violation on the Tigers at the service line.
Chagrin Falls Head Coach Kelly Holtz would find success, though, when her team was attacking quickly out of the middle blocker position. Clara Ives cut the Huskies’ lead to five, forcing a kill through the block.
Stringing together an 8-3 run forced the Huskies to call a timeout, and their lead would be cut to one, 20-19. Nerpouni then recorded another kill, and her tip would tie the set at 20.
The Tigers found their first lead at 2120, and then again forced a timeout at 22-20. Sophomore Gianna Calabrese finished the set, 25-22, with a kill, evening the match at one apiece.
Chagrin Falls eventually won the third set, 25-19, capitalizing off of the Huskies’ timely errors. Puruczky led all players with 14 kills and 11 digs. Nerpouni led the Tigers with 11 kills on 37 swings. Calabrese added nine kills to balance the front row for the Tigers, while Holmes Audrey and Pierce each added 13 assists.
It’s a beautiful time of year for golf in Geauga County.
And while out on our beautiful Geauga courses, you will often see local high school golfers practicing and participating in high school matches.
The high school golf season is one of the first OHSAA sport seasons to begin each school year. In fact, this year, our county’s high school golf season began Aug. 4.
Just two weeks into the season, on Aug. 21, the Kenston boys golf team participated in its fourth match of the season as they took on Mayfield at Punderson State Park Golf Course, which is the home course for the Kenston golf team.
On a bright, sun-shiny day with very little wind, Kenston and Mayfield played to a tie, both teams recording a total score of 178.
Mayfield officially won the match, how ever, since the tie-breaker goes to the team whose fifth golfer had a lower score than the other team’s fifth lowest score. Mayfield’s fifth golfer carded a score that was three strokes lower than Kenston’s fifth golfer.
“We ended up in a tie, so that’s a good thing,” Kenston Boys Golf Coach Bill Germa na said.
All of Kenston’s top four golfers carded scores in the 40s against Mayfield.
In particular, Kenston was led by Nolan Gelin, who shot a 40.
“(The match started off rough); I didn’t have a good drive,” Gelin said. “But I started picking it up; I had like five pars in a row and ended alright.
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Lauren Burgess commanded the back row with 18 digs, while junior Maddie Ehrhardt picked up 16 digs and senior Emma Geesling pitched in with 14.
After dropping the first set against Madison, the Tigers assembled a strong second and third set, winning 25-18 and 25-12. Calabrese led all with six kills, while Nerpouni and Nightwine added five and four respectively.
Nightwine added seven aces, the most of the morning. Burgess again took control of the back row, picking up 11 digs, and Pierce added 14 assists.
“We really pride ourselves on having fun on the court while learning how to have fun and win,” Burgess said. “We had to do what we do in practice, and it was a group effort to
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ing him in the final play of the first half.
“We have to continue to improve, but that is what we want,” Grubich said. “It does not matter where we are at on the field, if our back is against the wall or if we have them pinned down, we have to come and bring that energy and juice, and our kids did that at the end of the half.”
The sack ended a dominant first half for Kenston that had started with a six-play, 72yard drive capped off by a five-yard touchdown run by junior quarterback Lucas Kaltenbach,
things he hopes to improve upon during the season. In particular, he spoke about the need to improve his short game and his approach shots into greens.
“There is some improvement needed for me on the greens and getting closer to the
come back and win.”
Although the Tigers didn’t come away with a win in the first game of their season against Lakeview, they pushed the Bulldogs to the max, forcing a set three.
“All of us are very competitive, and we try to get into the right headspace when we drop a set and just try to come back from that,” Nightwine said.
As for the Huskies, it’s been closing out close sets that has been a struggle so far. Cardinal took the first set against the Wolverines, 25-22, before dropping the second and third sets.
The Huskies put together a strong opening set against LaBrae before creating a large lead in the third and dropping both.
However, in their matchup against Madison, the Huskies would not have their first victory slip away. It would be on the arm of Puruczky again, this time leading with 10
putting the Bombers ahead 7-0.
Kenston’s offense hummed right along as senior wide receiver Brandon Bell scored on a 13-yard touchdown pass, extending the lead to 14-0.
In the second quarter, Kaltenbach delivered a 20-yard touchdown strike to junior wide receiver Dylan Krupp, and senior tailback Sean Patrick stretched Kenston’s lead to 28-0 by scoring on a one-yard touchdown run.
“It was really cool,” Kenston’s 6-foot-4 quarterback said. “We were having a lot of fun. We were not really thinking, but playing and relying on all of our hard work in practice.
“It starts with the offensive line. They
Hunter Brownfield (49).
With such an early season, the team has already been quite busy.
On Aug. 8, it hosted the Kenston Invitational at Punderson Golf Course. The Bombers boys golf team finished in 10th place as a team, and leading the boys golf team individually were
Graysen Bischof and Hunter Brownfield, who both carded 92s for the 18-hole round.
On Aug. 15, Kenston also had its first of two WRC matches against Riverside.
In the first match, leading Bombers were sophomore Graysen Bischof, who shot a 42, and Austin Stephens, who carded a 47.
The team then traveled to Riverside’s home course Aug. 17. In that second match, the Bombers were led by Avery Siperke, who shot a 47, and Graysen Bischof, who shot a 48.
In overviewing the golf matches so far, Gelin talked about how the season has progressed and what he is looking forward to during his junior year of golf.
“It’s going alright,” Gelin said. “Hopefully we can pick it up and win a few matches and win conference.”
Kenston boys golf would also have a busy week ahead, scheduled for matches with Willoughby South on Aug. 28, Mentor on Aug. 29 and Twinsburg on Aug. 31.
kills. Junior middle blocker Lizzy Lucarellio added five, and Morgan Csontos, three. Grant pitched in with four aces in the 2-1 victory.
Puruczky led the back row with 22 digs, recording her third double-double of the season. Ehrhardt added 15 digs, while Geesling had 14. In the win, Ehrhardt recorded 16 assists.
After the win, Puruczky and Lucarellio talked about the adjustments made between the morning matches.
“We picked each other up, and communicated better. We supported each other better,” Lucarellio said.
played absolutely amazing, allowing zero sacks for the second week in a row, and I do not think I have been tackled in the backfield, so the offensive line is playing truly unbelievable.”
In the third quarter, the Wolverines finally snapped their scoreless drought, engineering a nine-play, 70-yard touchdown drive capped off by a two-yard touchdown pass to sophomore wideout Dominic Paros, trimming Kenston’s lead to 28-7.
The Bombers regained control with two more touchdowns, a seven-yard run by the 5-foot-11 Patrick and an eight-yard run by junior wide receiver Cohen Clark, extending their advantage to 42-7 and triggering the
Madison recorded a team-high eight blocks against the Huskies, but that didn’t scare them.
“I hit different shots,” Puruczky said. “I tried going line, and then the next one I would go hard cross. Then, when they would shift their block, I would just go wherever they weren’t.”
The Tigers improved to 3-1 on the season, while the Huskies went 1-4. Chagrin Falls would have another non-conference matchup against Kirtland on Aug. 28 before hosting Brush on Aug. 31, while Cardinal would next travel to Ashtabula Lakeside to take on the Dragons.
running clock.
Kaltenbach ignited Kenston’s offense, throwing for two touchdowns and compiling 200 yards on 14 completions out of 28 attempts, plus running five yards for a touchdown.
“Lucas is a special kid,” Grubich said. “He is talented and he works hard. He is starting to get comfortable in the offense and has improved every week, and that is a credit to those offensive coaches and Lucas’ hard work and him studying the film.”
This week, Kenston will host neighborhood foe Chagrin Falls at home, while the Wolverines will play their first road game, facing Aurora at Veterans Stadium.
The sun may have been shining, but the course was filled with mud, after a week of rain storms at Kenston’s 10th annual Frank Gibas Invitational on Aug. 26 in Bainbridge Township.
That did not stop the Chardon Hilltoppers from repeating as team champions in the boys’ race, scoring 58 points with a 2-7-10-15-24 fin ish and fending off the host Bombers, who scored 94 points with an 8-16-19-20-31 finish.
“We ran pretty well,” Chardon Head Coach Mark Shafer said. “It is just tough con ditions in the first race of the year. Some peo ple responded pretty well, and some people have a lot to improve upon. It was a good day overall, but it was certainly far from perfect.”
Senior Thomas Nelson propelled the Hilltoppers, finishing as the runner-up in 16:22.90, followed by junior Jacob Nieset, who took seventh with a time of 16:43.30. Senior Makoto Gumpf came in 10th place at 17:06.70, senior Matthew Sopchak snagged 15th place in 17:22.80, and senior Karl Dietz finished in 24th with a time of 17:45.80.
Nelson stayed at the front of the pack throughout the race, trailing Massillon Perry senior Connor Reed, but closed the gap in the final stretch when he triggered his closing kick. Still, he acknowledged he waited a bit too long to make his move, finishing only 0.9 seconds behind the Panthers’ senior.
“I knew he would be here, and I knew he would be coming in with the fastest time, so I just tried to stick with him,” Nelson said. “He was a good runner, and he just chugged it out, and I just followed suit.”
the next step and taken a lot of things more seriously than when we were younger, and I think it is paying off well.”
The Bombers were led by senior Kyle McMahon, who took eighth place with a time of 16:47.70, followed by senior Sean Tobin, who clinched 16th place at 17.22.90. Senior Martin Weber finished in 19th place by clocking 17:35.90, senior Christian Lioudis captured 20th place at 17:42.20, and freshman Matthew Collins came in 31st with a time of 17:54.60.
or, who finished in fourth place at 20.02.50.
Stow-Munroe Falls senior Jayla Atkinson dictated the pace, staying in first place throughout the race, but Greene remained within striking distance.
Despite falling to fourth in the second half of the race, Greene kicked in the final stretch to move into third place, finishing strong in her final race on her home course.
“On this course, there are hills,” Greene said. “So keeping that in mind, that we have
a chunk of the race left, and still making sure we are doing the best we can to keep our -
vision II state runners-up at last year’s state meet, the Bomber girls are also prepared to
“We are ready for the challenge,” McIvor said. “We are not all individuals, but we are one team, and we are going to push each other to the best of our abilities so we can get the best result.”
The Chagrin Falls girls took sixth place as a team with a 7-13-40-41-52 finish, propelled by senior Mila Gresh, who snagged seventh place at 20:18.70, while the Tiger boys came in 10th place as a team, scoring 312 points with a 56-58-61-67-70 finish.
Teams will race again this upcoming weekend at the Mentor Cardinal Invitational in Garfield Park.
Chardon fell in a shootout with Tiffin Columbian 50-49. The Tornadoes (2-0), who trailed late into the fourth quarter, made a two-point conversion with less than thirty seconds to play to pull out the win.
A 1-yard touchdown run by junior running back Vinny Colombi with 5:04 to play gave Chardon (1-1) the lead.
However, it would not last as the Tornadoes marched down the field – led by their senior quarterback Bryce Roggow.
With 21 seconds to go, Roggow ran it in from three yards out.
At that point, Columbian head coach Judd Lutz decided to go for two.
The decision paid off as Roggow, who committed to play ball at Akron University, connected with Brady Gooding to give their team the lead.
“We’ve got dudes,” said Columbian head coach Judd Lutz on the decision to go for two. “They play a pressure defense and make you throw it accurate. Brayden Roggow is the real deal.”
“I loved the two-point call; I would have done the same thing.” added Chardon head coach Mitch Hewitt.
Chardon failed to move the ball on their final possession and once the clock struck zero, the Tornados celebrated as if they had just won the state championship.
For the Hilltoppers, it was another sloppy game filled with penalties and mistakes. However, unlike last week’s shutout, they could not overcome these challenges in week two.
“It was like a heavyweight fight, but with way too many penalties,” said Hewitt. “We
just gave them 30 yards at the end of the game with less than a minute to go. You can’t do that to a bad team, let alone a team that talented.”
“Penalties are disastrous. It’s undisciplined. We have to clean it up,” he added.
The game started out well for Chardon, as the Toppers stopped Columbian on a fourth and one from midfield. Less than a minute later though, Gooding picked off Chardon senior quarterback Will Francis and returned it 47 yards to the house for a touchdown.
The Hilltoppers evened the score out with a 7-yard touchdown run by Caleb Hewitt on a fourth-and-three play late in the first quarter.
Midway through the second quarter, Roggow hit Gooding on a 6-yard slant pass in the end zone to regain the lead 14-7.
Chardon tied the game with 4:28 left in the second on a 5-yard touchdown run by Colombi.
On the ensuing kickoff, Timmy Evans recovered a live ball on the Tornado 15. However, Chardon could not capitalize, and a 28yard field goal sailed left.
Columbian then got into their two-minute drill and it paid off as Roggow hooked up with Gooding for a 47-yard touchdown reception 35 seconds before halftime.
Down 21-14, Francis showed why he has earned the nickname “Slick Willy.” The senior went around the right side and turned on the jets for a 48-yard score to tie the game.
“He’s as tough as nails,” said Coach Hewitt. “He’s just a winner. He’s got a state championship in baseball.”
Senior linebacker Ken Friihauf picked off Roggow on Columbian’s first play of the second half, and roughly a minute and a half
later, Francis hit pay dirt again – this time a 13-yard run.
The Tornados roared right back, and once again, the Roggow to Gooding connection burned the Toppers. This time, they connected a 59-yard touchdown pass to even the score at 28.
At this point, both defensives were struggling. Chardon marched down the field, and Colombi punched it in from 1 yard out to give the Hilltoppers a 35-28 advantage.
Gooding then hauled in a 16-yard touchdown reception, but the PAT was blocked.
“It was his night,” said Lutz of his senior wideout. “Last week, he had one catch.”
With just over a minute to play in the third quarter, Hewitt found paydirt on a 16-yard jet sweep to push the Topper lead to 42-34.
In the final frame, Columbian scored twice more, sandwiched around Colombi’s third touchdown on the night. Each time the Tornados scored in the fourth, they also made the two-point conversion.
“It was two really good football teams squaring off in week two, which is where both programs are, and I’d like to see less penalties and less points on the scoreboard,” Coach Hewitt said. It was a frustrating night for the Hilltoppers, as their normally staunch defense was carved up all evening. While they held the Tornado running game in check – allowing just 67 rushing yards – they could not stop the passing game. Furthermore, they struggled to put pressure on Roggow.
“I’ve got to tip my cap to him [Roggow],” said Coach Hewitt. “There were some blown assignments and penalties. They made plays.”
Dressed in their blue uniforms, Roggow looked like he was playing for the Zips. His performance was certainly worthy of a D-I recruit, as he threw for 335 yards, four touchdown passes, two 2-point conversion passes and one rushing touchdown. On the night, the Tornadoes offense piled up 402 yards.
Led by the feet of Francis, the Chardon Wing-T churned out 450 rushing yards.
Francis carried the ball 25 times for 294 yards and two touchdowns. Hewitt ran for 78 yards and two scores. Colombi added three touchdowns on 45-yards rushing.
“Their players play with an edge, play hard, block you hard, tackle you hard, run to the ball,” said Lutz. “Chardon has a program we want to be like.”
“We’ve got a lot of weapons, but it’s been a long time since our defense has given up 50 points,” Coach Hewitt said.
The Tornados were the first team to score more than 42 points against Chardon since Perry put up 43 in overtime in week two of 2018. It was also the first time since 2010 that a team scored more than 50 points against the Hilltoppers. In 2010, three teams torched the Toppers: a 52-38 loss against North, a 62-39 loss against Madison and a 62-14 loss at Madison. The schedule does not get any easier for Chardon, as the Hilltoppers will open up the home portion of their 2023 schedule by hosting D II, Region 6 powerhouse Avon Lake. The Shoremen (2-0) downed Benedictine last week and have yet to allow more than 15 points this season.
“People just think you go undefeated and beat everybody by 30 points, but the schedules are what they are,” added Coach Hewitt.
Harriet Ellen Jarvie (nee Gromley), age 90, of Chardon, peacefully passed away on Aug. 13, 2023, at Mapleview Country Villa.
She was born July 29, 1933, to William and Lola (nee Smith) Jarvie, in Johnstown, Pa.
Harriet was Head of Surgery at Geauga Community Hospital until her retirement.
She enjoyed singing in the choir at the senior center in Chardon. She liked to play cards and was very active with her church.
Survived by her daughter, Sondra Cowan, of Bedford; grandchildren, Michelle (Jay) Richmond, of Concord Township, and Michael (Monica) Starkey, of Rome, Ohio; and great-granddaughters, Michala Krakowski and Noelle Starkey.
Preceded in death by her parents; husband, James Paul Jarvie; brother, Ben Gromley; and sister, Mary Louise Houston.
Memorial service will be held at 1 p.m. Sept. 2, 2023, at the Hartsgrove Community Church, 5260 US Highway 6, Rome, Ohio, with a luncheon to follow for friends and family.
Cremation by Burr Funeral Home and Cremation Service, Chardon.
Arrangements made by the Burr Funeral Home and Cremation Service, Chardon. Information and condolences online at www. burrservice.com.
David C. Blauch, 92, of Chardon, died Aug. 22, 2023, at University Hospi tals Geauga Medical Center in Claridon Township. He was born Oct. 13, 1930, in Ravenna.
David was a teacher at Wickliffe City Schools. He received his Bachelor’s Degree at Baldwin Wallace and a Master’s Degree at Kent State University.
He and his wife bred Miniature Schnauzers for years in Concord Township.
David was very active with St. Gabriel Catholic Church, as a Communion Minister and member of the Adult Choir. He has previously served as a lector at St. Mary Magdalene Church in Willowick.
Survivors include his wife, Mary Lou Blauch (nee Bruck); children, Janet Oliver, John (Kimberley) Blauch and Alan (Theresa) Blauch; and grandchildren, Kristin, Morgan, Stephen, Tyler and Grady.
He was preceded in death by his parents, Clemens and Sylvia Blauch.
A funeral mass to honor David’s life was held at 12 noon Aug. 26, 2023, at St. Gabriel Catholic Church, 9925 Johnnycake Ridge
Road, Concord Township.
The family received friends from 11 a.m. until the time of the service at the church.
Interment was in All Souls Cemetery in Chardon Township.
In lieu of flowers, the family requests contributions be made to the St. Gabriel Church Music Ministry or to St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital, 501 St. Jude Place, Memphis, TN 38105.
Arrangements entrusted to the Brunner Sanden Deitrick Funeral Home & Cremation Center, 8466 Mentor Ave., Mentor. Please offer condolences at www.brunners.com.
Kerry Lee Wright
Kerry Lee Wright, of Montville Town ship, passed away on Aug. 24, 2023, at the age of 51. Born Jan. 3, 1972, at Hillcrest Hospital to Earl and Nancy (nee: Wagner) Wright, he was a life long Montville resident.
Kerry had many interests including his love for grilling and cooking, gardening, antique tractors, all things weaponry, and the Great Lakes Medieval Faire. He played an integral role in growing his family’s business, where he became a mentor and friend to many.
Kerry volunteered his time as the vice president of the Montville Firefighter’s Association, helping out at the turkey shoots, the chili cook-off (his was the one that burned off your taste buds) and cooking the clams for the Annual Clam Bake.
Kerry never married nor had children, but he spent the last many years devoting his time to raising Brinley Kaluga. He made sure she could participate in youth group, karate, 4-H and so much more.
He was always eager and willing to help anyone who needed a hand. He taught us all so much. His boisterous laughter will be missed by all those that had the good fortune to hear it.
He is survived by his mother Nancy Wright, brother Dennis Wright (Debbie) and sisters Lori Smith (Timothy) and Deborah Lauer; nieces and nephews Lisa Gregory (Mark), Jacob Smith (Autumn), Timothy Smith, Tessa Smith, and Rachael Lauer.
He was preceded in death by his father Earl Wright Jr.
There will be a Celebration of Life on October 21, 2023. Kerry’s family will be hosting his annual party (meatfest) to celebrate life Kerry style. In lieu of flowers, please spend time with your loved ones.
Cremation provided by the Burr Funeral Home and Cremation Service, Chardon, Ohio. Information and condolences online at www.burrservice.com.
Kent State University at Geauga is offering a free pilot training program for small businesses in underserved rural communities to help ensure safe and healthy workplaces. As part of its ongoing leadership commitment to regional workforce development, Kent State Geauga is now accepting registrations for training sessions scheduled through mid-September.
The workplace safety training has been made possible through a 100-percent federally-funded $74,193 grant from OSHA’s Susan Harwood Training Grants Program. Lance Williams, director of operations and special projects at Kent State Geauga, cowrote the successful grant application with associate professors of biological sciences Sanhita Gupta and Dr. Erin Bailey.
The cost-free training sessions are designed to better protect underserved and hard-to-reach workers from illness and injury and help foster a sense of safety and well-being, ultimately leading to improved worker engagement and productivity. Specifically, the training will help provide critical information about updated chemical safety standards and strategies to better prevent workplace violence. After completing these trainings, local businesses in construction, agriculture and service sectors in rural communities should see improved overall worker safety.
The Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) is part of the United States Department of Labor. While many Geauga County workplaces are small businesses, they are required to meet OSHA
regulations to keep their employees safe from workplace hazards. The new training is ideal for small-business employers and workers in high-hazard industries to ensure compliance with updated OSHA standards.
Utilizing their knowledge and expertise in laboratory training and development, Kent State Geauga faculty from the biological sciences designed the OSHA training program to be engaging, effective and learner-centered. In order to accommodate worker schedules, some sessions feature in-person training at KSU Geauga in Burton while others are online synchronous sessions via Zoom technology.
Dr. Bailey adds that each training session is a stand-alone class, and “each participant will receive a Kent State certificate of completion. We are offering multiple dates for training to try to accommodate as many workers as possible.”
Ideal training participants are non-governmental Geauga County small businesses and organizations with fewer than 250 workers (except self-employed/sole proprietors). Workers can attend the sessions individually or in groups. Middle managers and business owners can also take advantage of the training and use provided materials to train additional workers within their organization using the train-the-trainer model.
The training sessions are designed to fill a void, protecting both the workplace and the community at large.
For information, including session topics, dates and times, or to register, visit www.kent.edu/geauga. Or contact Professor Gupta at sgupta7@kent.edu with any questions.
The Maple Leaf charges a flat fee of $100 per obituary or death notice, including a photograph.
Registration is open for Fairmount Center for the Arts fall session of art, dance, fitness, music and theatre programs. Classes and workshops for all ages and skill levels begin Sept. 6.
For more information or to register for classes, visit www.fairmountcenter.org, call 440338-3171.
NAMI Geauga offers mental health support groups and classes for families and persons affected by mental illness. There is no charge to participants. All offerings are 100% peer led and meet in person or on Zoom. Check out NAMI’s calendar online for the latest listings: www.namigeauga.org.
Thursdays, 6:30-8 p.m.
The open group for men and women meets weekly at Horizons Christian Assembly, 14920 White Road in Middlefield and welcomes anyone struggling with grief, alcoholism, addiction, depression, co-dependency or any other habit that lessens the quality of life. The group offers support, encouragement, fellowship and discipleship.
Learn more at www.Horizons4you.com/ LifeRecovery.
Bloodmobile
American Red Cross urges people to make and keep appointments to help avoid a blood shortage.
Donation appointments may be made by downloading the free Blood Donor app, visiting RedCrossBlood.org or calling 1-800-7332767. Power Reds are available.
Sept. 7, Bainbridge Town Hall, 17826 Chillicothe Road, Bainbridge Township, 12-6 p.m.
Sept. 10, Church of St. Mary, 401 North St., Chardon, 8 a.m. to 2 p.m.
Sept. 14, Middlefield Library, 16167 East High St., Middlefield, 12-6 p.m.
Sept. 14, Munson Town Hall, 12210 Auburn Road, Munson Township, 12-6 p.m.
Sept. 21, Geauga Library Administration, 12701 Ravenwood Drive, Chardon, 10 a.m. to 3 p.m.
Sept. 21, St. Mark Lutheran Church, 11900 Chillicothe Road, Chester Township, 12-5 p.m.
Sept. 22, Geauga West Library, 13455 Chillicothe Road, Chester Township, 11 a.m. to 5 p.m.
Sept. 28, Chardon United Methodist Church, 515 North St., Chardon, 12–6 p.m.
Wednesdays, 6:45-8:15 p.m.
Obsessed with food, weight, dieting or body image? Join every Wednesday for a Food Addicts in Recovery Anonymous meeting at St. Luke’s Episcopal Church, 11519 Wilson Mills Road, Chardon. Meetings are open all. There are no dues, fees or weigh-ins. For more information, visit www.foodaddicts.org.
For more information and registration, contact the park district at 440-286-9516 or visit www.geaugaparkdistrict.org.
Sept. 8-9
Bird enthusiasts are challenged to a 24hour birding marathon. The park district in partnership with Greater Cleveland Audubon Society and Blackbrook Audubon encourage area residents to assemble a team and join in on the Chagrin River Bird Quest Birding Challenge.
Begin by registering with the Audubon Society of Greater Cleveland at www.clevelandaudubon.org under Bird Quest, then come to The West Woods Nature Center on Friday from 4-6 p.m. During team check-in and final registration, pick up maps, checklists and T-shirts – all free materials – and talk strategy with teammates and naturalists.
Participants will then spend the next 24 hours birding. Visit the Audubon’s website
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, a 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
Master Gardeners at the Fair
Aug. 31 to Sept. 4
Visit the Geauga County Master Gardener Volunteers’ interactive booth display “What Good Are Bugs?” located in building 9 at the south end of the fairgrounds at the Great Geauga County Fair. There will be kids activities as well as MGVs on duty to help answer gardening questions.
Young of Heart
Sept. 1, 11:30 a.m.
Geauga Young of Heart will meet at St. Anselm Church in Chester Township. Bring a brown bag lunch. Snacks and beverage are provided. Speaker Rose Marie Gattozzi, from Gattozzi & Son Funeral Home, will discuss final arrangements. A Christmas trip has been planned for Dec. 12-14 to Lancaster, Pa. For trip information, call Nancy at 440-729-9684.
FGP Explorers Series
Sept. 2, 10 a.m. to noon
Join Foundation for Geauga Parks for “Playing Tag for Science with Monarch Butterflies” at Walter C. Best Wildlife Preserve, 11620 Ravenna Road in Chardon. For information or to register, visit foundationforgeaugaparks.org or call 440-564-1048.
Military Show
Sept. 2, 11 a.m. to 3 p.m.
Armilitary Hermitage Co. is sponsoring its second annual Valor of Veterans military show featuring American vehicles and equipment on Chardon Square. The free event includes food trucks, face painting and a balloon artist.
ship. A presale will be held Thursday from 5-8 p.m. with a $5 admission. The sale continues with free admission on Friday from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. and Saturday from 9 a.m. to noon.
GEL Breakfast
Sept. 8, 8-9:30 a.m.
Join Geauga Economic Leadership (G.E.L.) breakfast for “AI: Approachable and Accessible Tools for your Business” taking place at Kent State University –Geauga, 14111 Claridon Troy Road, Burton. Nicholas Goers, vice president of technology and lead developer with Company 119, will lead a conversation with Mike Kaput, chief content officer with Marketing AI Institute.
Co-sponsored by Geauga Growth Partnership and Kent State University at Geauga, the event is free and open to the public. For information or to register, call 440564-1060 or email info@geaugagrowth. com.
Auburn Community Arts Festival
Sept. 8-10
The drive-it-yourself festival in Auburn Township offers something for everyone. Enjoy century barn tours and farms, Monarch Festival, wagon rides, photo opportunities with antique and unique vehicles, corn roast, fresh produce and flame working with glass rod demonstrations. Local shops, restaurants and breweries will have events or sales.
For more information, including locations, dates and times, check the Auburn Arts District website.
for challenge rules.
Then, on Saturday from 4-7:30 p.m., return to nature center to turn in checklists for judging and enjoy refreshments, awards and door prizes.
Oct. 7
Register is open for Geauga Park District’s second annual Space Race at Observatory Park in Montville Township. Run, jog or walk as many laps as one can from 4-6 p.m. on the Planetary Trail. Each completed .85mile lap will propel runners through the solar system. All 16 possible laps are just over a half marathon.
Space is limited, with race T-shirts guaranteed for the first 250 to register.
Everyone who completes at least one lap will earn a Space Race finishers medal plus a ribbon recognizing how far they went and which planet they reached. Awards will also be given to the top three male and female finishers.
Holiday Polka Party
Sept. 4, 1-7 p.m.
A Labor Day polka party will be held at SNPJ Farm, 10946 Heath Road, Kirtland. Enjoy ethnic food and live music featuring the Eddie Rodick Band and Frank Stanger Band. For information, call 330-318-3004.
Dorothy’s Porch Giveaway
Sept. 7 and 8, 9 a.m. to 2 p.m.
Dorothy’s Porch, a free community giveaway of clothing for the family, bedding, household items, books, toys and holiday decorations, will be held at Celebration Lutheran Church, 10621 Auburn Road in Chardon.
This and That Sale
Sept. 7-9
St. Mark Lutheran Church Women’s League will host its annual This and That garage and estate sale at the church located at 11900 Chillicothe in Chester Town-
Geauga Skywatchers Club
Sept. 11, 6:30-7:30 p.m.
Join Geauga Skywatchers Club for “Upcycled Record Solar System Art” at the Geauga West Library in Chester Township. Learn about the planets while painting the solar system on an old record. No experience is needed. All materials will be provided.
Visit www.geaugalibrary.net to register.
Junk in the Trunkfest
Sept. 16, 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.
Sell items from one’s trunk or bring a tent or table at Junk in the Trunkfest held in conjunction with Auburn Township’s annual community picnic at Auburn Community Park, 17484 Munn Road, Auburn Township.
Vendors must preregister by Sept. 13; call 440-543-7028 or visit www.auburntownship.com.
After completing her first year at Cardinal Local Schools, Jordak Elementary School K-4 music teacher Alissa Mujanovic has greatly updated her classroom.
“As a new teacher to this district, I have been assessing and taking inventory of materials and musical instruments available to our students,” said Mujanovic.
During her first year at Cardinal, Mujanovic has been selected as a recipient for two grants. The first grant came from the Geauga County Retired Teachers Association. With a goal in mind of offering $250 grants to teachers who are employed in any of the public schools in Geauga County. Grants are intended to be used to support, in part or in whole, an innovative educational project that would otherwise not be possible because of a lack of school funds.
Before the grants were awarded to Mujanovic, students had to share one drum and one xylophone, where at times she had 30 students in one class. Now, her students can use one floor tom and one 13-inch tubano.
“Our students are itching to play instruments,” said Mujanovic. “Having taught elementary music in the past, I have witnessed the positive effects that instrumental music-making has had on general music students. Young students are quickly able to
Kenston welcomes its new faculty mem bers to the Kenston family. They filled posi tions created by retirements, resignations or extended leaves.
The district looks forward to the talents and dedication of its faculty and staff as they work to design lessons that are challenging, interesting and inspiring.
Join on Sept. 1 from 5-7 p.m. for a tailgate and pregame to honor local first responders. Mingle with friends and neighbors while en joying food and family activities before the 7 p.m. kick-off against Chagrin Falls.
The 2023 Friday Night Lights Tailgates are sponsored by Bomber Elite, Kenston Athletic Boosters, Kenston Community Edu cation, Musical Arts Association of Kenston and The Bomber Hangar (Kenston PTO).
With the new school year underway, districtwide bus evacuation drills have been conducted. The bus evacuation drills are part of the safety and security drills that are conduct-
ed throughout the year for fires, natural disasters and lockdowns. The age-appropriate drills are conducted in conjunction with local first responders.
During the bus evacuation drills, students and bus drivers practiced three types of evac-
practice, keeping a steady beat with hands together and alternating. Older students are able to continue enhancing fine and gross motor skills as rhythmic knowledge progresses. Further opportunities for rhythmic practice, performance and composition are made possible with classroom instruments. Finally, growing our classroom supply of drums will allow our students to practice ensemble skills and explore new cultural experiences like African drumming in the future.”
Her second grant was awarded to her from the Ohio Music Education Association where she was able to purchase three more floor toms and one more 13-inch tubano.
“I will now be able to incorporate these instruments in all 15 of my classes, ages kindergarten through fourth grade, for years to come. In total, these instruments would benefit more than 400 students per school year,” said Mujanovic.
For a school district that has a strong music department in the secondary education, incorporating this type of music lessons into the younger students should encourage participation and skills for those students once they get to middle and high school.
Mujanovic and her students will perform two concerts for families, friends and members of the community during the 2023-24 school year, while also performing at Grandparents Day, Veterans Day and more.
Superintendent Jack Cunningham, middle and high school Principal Paul Gerycz and Jordak Elementary School Principal Robert Kujala received 20 bookbags stuffed with school supplies for students in the Cardinal Local School District on Aug. 21. It marks the third year that RadioActive and Cardinal has partnered with Verizon through Wireless-Zone TCC.
C.J. Ventra, store manager, felt the dona-
uation drills: exiting the back of the bus and exiting the front of the bus; half of the students exiting through the back door and the other half exiting via the front; and quickly moving to a place of safety 100 feet from the bus.
tion was close to home when his son entered the first grade at Jordak this school year.
“We appreciate the opportunity and ability to donate to our local schools,” said Ventra. “As for a company on what it means, I feel in a wonderful small knit community such as Middlefield, it is very important we give back to our community. Matt Smith and all of us here value community outreach and being unselfish to Middlefield where we’re lucky to bring the best Verizon experience.”
Sheriff’s Sale of Real Estate General Code, Sec. 11661
Revised Code, Sec. 2329.26
Case No. 19-F-000667
The State of Ohio, County of Geauga, ss: DEUTSCHE BANK NATIONAL TRUST COMPANY, AS TRUSTEE, ON BEHALF OF THE HOLDERS THE WAMU MORTGAGE PASS-THROUGH CERTIFICATES, SERIES 2005-AR6, Plaintiff vs. BRENDA HENDERSON, AS HEIR TO THE ESTATE OF MARSHALL D. HENDERSON, ET AL., Defendants
In pursuance of an Alias Order of Sale in the above entitled action, I will offer for sale at public auction, at https://geauga.sheriffsaleauction.ohio.gov/, on Thursday, the 28th day of September, 2023, at 10:00 o’clock A.M., and if the parcel does not receive a sufficient bid, it shall be offered for sale, without regard to the minimum bid requirement, at the same time of day and at the same place of the first sale, on Thursday, the 12th day of October, 2023 the following described real estate, situated in the County of Geauga and State of Ohio, and in the Township of Chester to wit:
Situated in the Township of Chester, County of Geauga and State of Ohio:
Being Part of Lot No. 5, Tract No. 3, within the said Township and described as follows:
Beginning in the center line of Shady Lane at the Northwesterly corner of lands conveyed to John A. and Ellanor F. Mayer by deed recorded in Volume 255, Page 14, of Geauga County Records of Deeds; thence North 74° 30’ 00” East along the Northerly line of said Mayer lands and through an iron pipe 30.33 feet from said place of beginning a total distance of 615.56 feet to an iron pipe; thence North 03° 00’ 15” East 100.0 feet to and iron pipe; thence South 73° 34’ 20” West 672.78 feet to the center line of Shady Lane, and through an iron pipe 30.85 feet therefrom; thence South 23° 55’ 25” East along said road center line 156.0 feet to the place of beginning, containing 1.841 Acres, as surveyed in October, 1953, by T.R. Root, be the same more or less; but subject to all legal highways.
Property Address: 13389 Shady Lane, Chesterland, OH 44026
Deed Reference Number: dated December 18, 1996, filed December 23, 1996, as recorded as Official Records Volume 1085, Page 1047, Geauga County, Ohio records.
Said Premises Located at: 13389 SHADY LANE, CHESTER TOWNSHIP, OH.
Permanent Parcel Number: 11-291300
DEPOSIT: Pursuant to O.R.C. 2329.211, the required deposit for this offering shall be $10,000.00. Said deposit shall be paid by WIRE TRANSFER of ACH DEBIT TRANSFER with https://geauga.sheriffsaleauction. ohio.gov.
The purchaser shall be responsible for those costs, allowances, and taxes that the proceeds of the sale are insufficient to cover. Said Premises appraised at ($250,000.00) and cannot be sold for less than two-thirds of that amount ($166,667.00). Please note: The appraisals are based on an exterior appraisal of property only, unless otherwise noted.
TERMS OF SALE: The FULL purchase price shall be paid to the Sheriff within thirty (30) days from the date of confirmation of sale, and on failure to do so, the purchaser may be held in contempt of court, the court may forfeit the sale and/or deposit, or the court may issue any other order it sees fit.
SCOTT A. HILDENBRAND, Sheriff Geauga County, Ohio Ann M. Johnson, attorney Aug31Sep7-14, 2023
Sheriff’s Sale of Real Estate General Code, Sec. 11661 Revised Code, Sec. 2329.26
Case No. 23-F-000113
The State of Ohio, County of Geauga, ss: NATIONSTAR MORTGAGE, LLC, Plaintiff vs. DANNA J. LAMBERT, AKA DANNA LAMBERT, ET AL., Defendants
In pursuance of an Order of Sale in the above entitled action, I will offer for sale at public auction, at https://geauga.sheriffsaleauction.ohio.gov/, on Thursday, the 28th day of September, 2023, at 10:00 o’clock
A.M., and if the parcel does not receive a sufficient bid, it shall be offered for sale, without regard to the minimum bid requirement, at the same time of day and at the same place of the first sale, on Thursday, the 12th day of October, 2023 the following described real estate, situated in the County of Geauga and State of Ohio, and in the Township of Bainbridge to wit:
Situated in the Township of Bainbridge, County of Geauga and State of Ohio:
And known as being Lot Nos. 346, 347, 348, 349 and 350 as shown on the plat of “Maps of Chagrin Falls Park”, recorded in Volume 1, Pages 60-61 of the Geauga County Record of Plats and Surveys, be the same more or less, but subject to all legal highways.
Property Address: 16800 Akron Street, Bainbridge, OH 44023
Deed Reference Number: dated March 24, 2017, filed May 5, 2017, recorded as Official Records Volume 2031, Page 2239, Geauga County, Ohio records.
Said Premises Located at: 16800 AKRON STREET, BAINBRIDGE TOWNSHIP, OH.
INSIDE APPRAISAL COMPLETED
Permanent Parcel Number: 02-075800, 02-075900, 02-076100
DEPOSIT: Pursuant to O.R.C. 2329.211, the required deposit for this offering shall be $5,000.00. Said deposit shall be paid by WIRE TRANSFER of ACH DEBIT TRANSFER with https://geauga.sheriffsaleauction. ohio.gov.
The purchaser shall be responsible for those costs, allowances, and taxes that the proceeds of the sale are insufficient to cover.
Said Premises appraised at ($80,000.00) and cannot be sold for less than two-thirds of that amount ($53,334.00). Please note: The appraisals are based on an exterior appraisal of property only, unless otherwise noted.
TERMS OF SALE: The FULL purchase price shall be paid to the Sheriff within thirty (30) days from the date of confirmation
of sale, and on failure to do so, the purchaser may be held in contempt of court, the court may forfeit the sale and/or deposit, or the court may issue any other order it sees fit.
SCOTT A. HILDENBRAND, Sheriff Geauga County, Ohio Ann Marie Johnson, attorney Aug31Sep7-14, 2023
LEGAL NOTICE IN THE COURT OF COMMON PLEAS GEAUGA COUNTY, OHIO
23-F-000177 – Towd Point Mortgage Trust
2018-6, U.S. Bank National Association, as Indenture Trustee vs. George G. Koustis aka George Koustis, et al.
George G. Koustis aka George Koustis, whose last place of residence is known as 1716 Arabian Lane, Palm Harbor, FL 34685-3344 but whose present place of residence is unknown and Unknown Spouse, if any, of George G. Koustis aka George Koustis, whose last place of residence is known as 1716 Arabian Lane, Palm Harbor, FL 34685-3344 but whose present place of residence is unknown, will take notice that on March 24, 2023, Towd Point Mortgage Trust 2018-6, U.S. Bank National Association, as Indenture Trustee, filed its Complaint in Foreclosure in Case No. 23-F-000177 in the Court of Common Pleas Geauga County, Ohio, 100 Short Court Street, Suite 300, Chardon, Ohio 44024, alleging that the Defendants, George G. Koustis aka George Koustis and Unknown Spouse, if any, of George G. Koustis aka George Koustis, have or claim to have an interest in the real estate located at 11379 Woodiebrook Drive, Munson Twp., OH 44024, PPN #21-176119. A complete legal description may be obtained with the Geauga County Auditor’s Office located at 231 Main St., Chardon, OH 44024-1293.
The Petitioner further alleges that by reason of default of the Defendant(s) in the payment of a promissory note, according to its tenor, the conditions of a concurrent mortgage deed given to secure the payment of said note and conveying the premises described, have been broken, and the same has become absolute.
The Petitioner prays that the Defendant(s) named above be required to answer and set up their interest in said real estate or be forever barred from asserting the same, for foreclosure of said mortgage, the marshalling of any liens, and the sale of said real estate, and the proceeds of said sale applied to the payment of Petitioner’s claim in the property order of its priority, and for such other and further relief as is just and equitable.
THE DEFENDANT(S) NAMED ABOVE ARE REQUIRED TO ANSWER ON OR BEFORE THE 28th DAY OF SEPTEMBER, 2023.
TOWD POINT MORTGAGE TRUST 2018-6, U.S. BANK NATIONAL ASSOCIATION, AS INDENTURE TRUSTEE
BY CLUNK, HOOSE CO., LPA, Ethan J. Clunk #0095546, Attorneys for Plaintiff-Petitioner, 495 Wolf Ledges Pkwy, Akron, OH 44311, (330) 436-0300 - telephone, (330) 436-0301 - facsimile, notice@clunkhoose.com.
Aug17-24-31, 2023
LEGAL NOTICE
Sale of Real Estate
GEAUGA COUNTY
Foreclosure Auction
Case# 22-F-000220 – Community Loan Servicing, LLC fka Bayview Loan Servicing
LLC vs Dennis E. Prots, Jr., et al.
The description of the property to be sold is as follows:
Property Address: 145 CENTER STREET, CHARDON, GEAUGA, OH, 44024;
Legal Description: Full Legal Listed on Public Website; Parcel Number: 10-115850
Bidding will be available only on www.Auction.com opening on September 19, 2023, at 10:00 AM for a minimum of 7 days.
Property may be sold on a provisional sale date should the third-party purchaser fail to provide their deposit within the allotted time. Provisional Sale date: October 3, 2023 at 10:00 AM. Sales subject to cancellation. The deposit required is $5,000 to be paid by wire transfer within 2 hours of the sale ending. No cash is permitted.
Purchaser shall be responsible for those costs, allowances, and taxes that the proceeds of the sale are insufficient to cover.
To view all sale details and terms for this property visit www.Auction.com and enter the Search Code 22F000220 into the search bar. Aug24-31 Sep7, 2023
Notice is hereby given that the Parkman Township Board of Zoning Appeals will conduct a public hearing on two appeals one for an Area Variance and one for a Use Variance to the Parkman Township Zoning Resolution on Tuesday the 12 day of September 2023, at 7:00 o’clock p.m. at the Parkman Township Community House located 16295 Main Market Road Parkman, Ohio.
This application submitted by appellant, Ken Ashba P.O. Box 1062 Burton, Ohio 44021 is requesting an Area Variance from the Parkman Township Zoning Resolution for property located at, 18305 Madison Road Parkman Township, Ohio 44080 which shall be in accordance with all of the applicable regulations for the District and the following regulations:
ARTICLE 1V Section 403.6 A (2) each side yard 20 feet.
This application submitted by appellant, Robert Miller and Robert Yoder 17134 Farmington Road Parkman Township, is requesting a Use Variance from the Parkman Township Zoning Resolution for property located at, Hosmer Road (Request is being made prior to purchase of property) Parkman Township, Ohio which shall be in accordance with all of the applicable regulations for the District and the following regulations: ARTICLE 1V Section 401.0 (A) 402.1.
Jan Helt, Secretary Aug31, 2023
Notice is hereby given that competitive sealed bids will be received by the Geauga County Board of Commissioners, in person or by mail at the Offices of the Geauga County Board of Commissioners, 12611 Ravenwood Drive, Suite #350, Chardon, Ohio 44024 until 1:45 p.m. local time on Wednesday, September 20, 2023, and will be opened and read aloud at 2:00 p.m. in Room #B303, at the Commissioners’ Office. Bidders shall submit a bid for the snowplowing, salting and/or cindering of the following Geauga County parking lots.
Project: Chardon Area
1) Geauga County Offices, 470 Center Street, Chardon, Ohio 44024
2) Courthouse, 100 Short Court, Chardon, Ohio 44024
3) Opera House, 211 Main Street Chardon, Ohio 44024
4) Courthouse Annex, 215, 219, 231, 237 Main Street, Chardon, Ohio 44024
5) Parking Lot 208 East Park Street, Chardon, Ohio 44024
Each bid must be accompanied by a certified or cashier’s check or an irrevocable letter of credit pursuant to Chapter 1305 of the Ohio Revised Code, in the amount of ten percent (10%) of the amount bid, or a bid guaranty bond in accordance with R.C. 153.54 in the amount of one hundred percent (100%) of the bid amount, such check or bid guaranty to be made in favor of the Geauga County Board of Commissioners and shall be held as a guarantee that after the awarding or recommendation for the award of the contract, the bidder will enter into a proper contract in accordance with the bid solicitation documents.
The envelope containing the bid and other required documents should be sealed and clearly marked “Bid-Snowplowing Chardon Area, Salt and/or Cindering of the Geauga County Parking Lots” and address to the, Attn: Clerk, Office of the Geauga County Board of Commissioners, 12611 Ravenwood Drive, Suite #350, Chardon, Ohio 44024.”
The successful bidder is required to furnish a bond for the faithful performance of the contract in a sum of not less than One Hundred Percent (100%) of the total bid price for the complete work, said bond to be that of an approved surety company authorized to transact business in the State of Ohio meeting the requirements of the O.R.C. Section 153.54. There will be a mandatory contractor prebid meeting at 1:00 p.m. September 6, 2023 at 13211 Aquilla Road, Chardon, Ohio 44024.
Specifications may be obtained at the Geauga County Maintenance Office, 13211 Aquilla Road, Chardon, Ohio, 44024, Monday through Friday, 8:30 a.m. to 4:00 p.m.
A copy of this legal notice will be published in the Maple Leaf and posted on the county’s internet site on the world wide web. Go to co.geauga.oh.us/Notices/Bids
The Geauga County Board of Commissioners reserves the right to waive any formalities, irregularities, or to reject any or all bids.
BY ORDER OF THE GEAUGA COUNTY
BOARD OF COMMISSIONERS
Christine Blair, Clerk Aug24-31, 2023
23-F-000187 – CrossCountry Mortgage, LLC, Plaintiff vs. Stephanie L. Foucher, et al., Defendants Unknown Spouse, if any, of Stephanie L. Foucher whose last place of residence/business is 12963 Lynn Road, Chesterland, OH 44026 but whose present place of residence/ business is unknown will take notice that on March 27, 2023, CrossCountry Mortgage, LLC filed its Complaint in Case No. 23-F-000187 in the Court of Common Pleas Geauga County, Ohio, 100 Short Court Street, Chardon, OH 44024, alleging that the Defendant(s) Unknown Spouse, if any, of Stephanie L. Foucher have or claim to have an interest in the real estate described below:
Permanent Parcel Number: 11-161100; Property Address: 12963 Lynn Road, Chesterland, OH 44026. The legal description may be obtained from the Geauga County Auditor at 231 Main Street, Suite 1-A, Chardon, Ohio 44024, 440279-1600.
The Petitioner further alleges that by reason of default of the Defendant(s) in the payment of a promissory note, according to its tenor, the conditions of a concurrent mortgage deed given to secure the payment of said note and conveying the premises described, have been broken, and the same has become absolute.
The Petitioner prays that the Defendant(s) named above be required to answer and set up their interest in said real estate or be forever barred from asserting the same, for foreclosure of said mortgage, the marshalling of any liens, and the sale of said real estate, and the proceeds of said sale applied to the payment of Petitioner’s Claim in the proper order of its priority, and for such other and further relief as is just and equitable.
THE DEFENDANT(S) NAMED ABOVE ARE REQUIRED TO ANSWER ON OR BEFORE THE 5TH DAY OF OCTOBER, 2023. CROSSCOUNTRY MORTGAGE, LLC
By Reimer Law Co., Douglas A. Haessig, Attorney at Law, Attorney for Plaintiff-Petitioner, P.O. Box 39696, Solon, Ohio44139. (440) 600-5500. Aug24-31 Sep7, 2023
NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING ON MOTION PROPOSING TO AMEND THE CHESTER TOWNSHIP ZONING RESOLUTION
O.R.C. SECTION 519.12(G)
Notice is hereby given that the Chester Township Board of Trustees will conduct a public hearing on a motion which is an amendment, identified as number Z-2023-1 to the Chester Township Zoning Resolution at the Chester Town Hall located at 12701 Chillicothe Road, at 6:00 P.M. on September 21, 2023.
The motion proposing to amend the Zoning Resolution will be available for examination at the Chester Town Hall from 9:00 A.M. to 3:00 P.M. from August 21, 2023 through all Public Hearings 2023.
It is also available at www.chestertwp.com/ upcoming-zoning-amendments/
Aug31, 2023
The following is a sampling of the calls handled by the Geauga County Sheriff’s Office Aug. 18-Aug. 24, 2023.
ANIMAL PROBLEM
Aug. 22
10:41 p.m., Rock Creek Road, Thompson. Caller said that someone just stole their dog. Caller was in her room, dog was barking, caller went out to see what she was barking at, the barking stopped, and the dog is gone. Caller said that there is no way for the dog to get out of the gated yard. Dog is a Bassett hound. Caller said dog is on the couch.
CITIZEN DISPUTE
Aug. 18
been stealing from other stores and are now in the Chardon Walmart. Four subjects (1 female) (3 males) came in to Chardon stores, attempting to return the items. Chardon Walmart did not accept the return. Males are going to various walmart locations trying to return the items.
Aug. 22
11:47 p.m., Downey Glen Trail, Auburn. Caller has 2 drones flying close to the house. Unknown who owns them.
Aug. 23
Patricia Jarrett, Fiscal Officer
PUBLIC NOTICE
Burton Public Library
Sealed bids will be received by the Burton Public Library Board of Trustees as provided in this notice for the Window Replacement Project. Questions may be directed to CBLH Design by contacting Jae Cho at jcho@cblhdesign.com. Contract Documents, which include additional details, are on file, at Arc Document Solutions, (https://customer.e-arc.com/arcEOC/ ARCPlanRoom.aspx). Bidders are responsible for non-refundable costs of printing.
Bids shall be enclosed in a sealed envelope and mailed to the Burton Public Library Board of Trustees, ATTN: Ed Worso, Fiscal Officer, P.O. Box 427, Burton, Ohio 44021, or delivered to the Burton Public Library Board of Trustees, ATTN: Ed Worso, Fiscal Officer, 14588 West Park Street, Burton, Ohio 44021 and plainly marked on the outside “BURTON PUBLIC LIBRARY WINDOW REPLACEMENT PROJ-
ECT BID”. Bids will be received until 12:00
P.M., local time September 13, 2023 and immediately after the deadline the bids will be opened and publicly read at the Burton Public Library, Large Meeting Room, 14588 West Park Street, Burton, Ohio 44021.
A pre-bid conference will be held on September 1, 2023 at 10:00 A.M. located at 14588 West Park Street, Burton, Ohio 44021.
All bids must include a Bid Guaranty, as described in the Instructions to Bidders. Prevailing wage rates apply. No bidder may withdraw its bid within 60 days after the opening; the Board reserves the right to waive irregularities, reject any or all bids, and conduct necessary investigations to determine bidder responsibility.
Aug24-31, 2023
3:39 p.m., Ravenna Road, Newbury. Caller and her mother would like to report an issue with the caller’s ex-husband brought onto the property and “laid hands” on the caller’s mother. Just occurred but they are both gone now. Started over an argument about the dog jumping in the ex-husband’s truck.
EXTRA PATROL
Aug. 20
6:26 p.m., Thompson Road, Thompson. Caller is the owner of Hidden Oaks Golf course and advised he just had to make a few 21-year-old males leave the course. They were damaging golf carts and turfing the green. Subjects became very angry and the caller is concerned they will return and vandalize. Caller is requesting extra patrol this evening and through the night. Patrols will be conducted.
LACERATION
Aug. 18
3:13 p.m., Parkside Road, Munson. Male, 60, cut his leg. hHe yelled that it is very bad. They made a makeshift tourniquet with a belt. He is conscious but pale. Cut with a chainsaw. He was cutting down a tree.
MISSING PERSON
Ed Worso, Fiscal Officer
The Ohio Soil and Water Conservation Commission will cause an election of Supervisors of the Geauga Soil and Water Conservation District (SWCD) to be held in accordance with Chapter 940 of the Ohio Revised Code. Individuals who own or occupy land within the Geauga Soil and Water Conservation District and are 18 years of age or older may vote for Supervisor.
There are 3 ways an eligible voter can cast a ballot:
1.) At the SWCD office, 12611 Ravenwood Drive, Suite 240, from 9/27/2023 until 10/26/2023 during normal business hours (Monday thru Friday- 7:00 am 3:30 pm); or
2.) At the SWCD Annual Meeting, which will take place at Claridon Woodlands, 11383 Claridon-Troy Road on 10/26/2023 from 6:00 –7:00 pm ; or
3.) Voting absentee from 9/27/2023 until 10/26/2023, by requesting the ballot application and election ballot from the SWCD office at the following address 12611 Ravenwood Drive, Suite 240, by calling 440-834-1122, or email clair@geauga.oh.gov. Absentee ballots must be received by the SWCD office by 10/26/2023 and by 3:30 pm.
Geauga Supervisors will be elected to a threeyear term commencing January 1, 2024 and ending December 31, 2027.
Nominees are:
1. Michael Henry 2. Robert Lausin Aug31, 2023
Aug. 18
7:51 a.m., Julie Drive, Munson. Male, 44, last seen at midnight, has been making suicidal comments over the last 6 months. All vehicles are accounted for and his phone is at the house. OHP requested for a helicopter. Windsor Fire requested for search and rescue dogs. Male has been located walking in the woods after an extensive search. Stated not suicidal and he denied medical evaluation. Stated he went out for a walk and fell asleep under a tree.
Aug. 19
7:33 p.m., Aquilla Road, Claridon. Next Step facility had a salesman come in trying to sell clients cell phones. A few clients gave their info to the man and are now panicked that it may have been a scam. The men did give some people phones today but they are still worried. Male in question provided credentials that he worked for Assure wireless that provides phones through government programs for free. Not a scam.
Aug. 22
2:05 p.m., Meadowlands Drive, Chardon. Two Black males, one with dreads, have
4:30 p.m., Burrows Road, Thompson. Caller believes she was scammed by a company she found on Facebook. Caller stated the company was Maven Air Care and the employees were duct cleaning company. Caller was advised to keep the windows and doors locked and ensure her camera system is working.
Aug. 18
2:03 p.m., Main Market Road, Parkman. Caller said an unknown person stole purse while she was at her property at 16125 Main Market. Video captured from business (Shangri La) shows 2 vehicles that may have stopped and stolen the purse from her unlocked vehicle. Due to the camera being very far from the incident. Vehicles could not be identified. IR provided and property documented.
Aug. 23
5:52 p.m., Kinsman Road, Burton. Caller says 14 yr old son used credit card and bought $4,308 worth of gems for Pokemon. He did not have her permission. He’s in the vehicle he’s refusing to get out of the vehicle. Caller wanted it documented and wanted deputies to speak to her son. No further action warranted.
Aug. 18
7:14 p.m., Rock Creed Road, Hambden. Caller is reporting that her friend’s soon-to-be ex-husband has been threatening the caller over the phone. Caller advised that he said he would come over and shoot everyone with guns. Caller, her husband, her son, all live at the house. And her 5 kids are at the house as well. Wants the threats documented.
Aug. 18
1:58 p.m., Valley Road, La Due Boat House, Auburn. Sailboat flipped over. West bound 422, 1 kayak flipped over and 1 upright 1 person in water and 1 in the kayak in middle of water north side just passed Blazing Bills. Troy Fire located male in the water. He advised his boat flipped over.
Aug. 20
3:04 p.m., Old State Road, Parkman. Check on caller who is the niece. Caller stated night that she was afraid. That she has allowed to live with her. She also said that she is so afraid that she has locked herself in the bedroom. Caller via phone said she wants to take a baseball bat and smash the males head in.
2010 Ford Ranger: for parts, 108,000 miles, $1,500/ OBO. Text 440-591-9554.
Burton Ranch Condo: 2/BR, 2/Bath, AC, laundry, 2-car attached garage. Less than a mile from Burton square. Private Patio, Vaulted Ceilings. Wonderful private setting surrounded by hundreds of acres of conservation land. No pets/smoking. $1,550/month. Includes snow plowing, lawn, trash. Senior discount. 440-221-0649.
Now accepting bids for residential concrete driveway. Call 216-401-6526 for address.
Vintage Wood 9-pane windows: Two are 33” x 26”. One is 6-pane 27” x 26”. $20 each. 440-478-2408.
Beautiful rhubarb for sale, large bunch $5, Near Troy/ Burton. 440-834-1177.
Fresh cut firewood to your desired length. Split or rounds delivered, Oak & Maple. $50-$80 per 4x8 stack. 440687-5404.
Solid Wood Furniture: Corner kitchen cabinet, dry sink, dresser w/mirror, night stands, twin &full bed, rocking chair, lighted secretary. 440-729-9197.
Glider Rocker: in good shape, $50. Middlefiled. 440632-9189.
Daylilies: over 450 varieties, $8 to $10 per large clump. Call 440-543-9303 or 440-570-1377.
Tonneau Cover: Roll up, off of 2019 F150 ext cab. Used less than 2 years. Asking $250, paid $500. 440-2275468.
FREE Poole piano. You move. Chesterland. 440-6357183.
SOFA: curved (Arhaus), three stand-alone sections, removable cushions, scatter pillows, some discoloration. Dark gold. Asking $250. Call or text 216-403-2312. Hardwood Lumber, live edge, multiple species. Planing and cutting available. 216-990-0947.
Antique claw-foot cast iron bathtub, EC $300. 440313-6581.
16” Chain Saw w/12 chains, $250. 3-Fishing Rods w/2 tackle boxes & fishing stuff, $60 for all. 440-554-5731. NEW Panasonic cordless phone, still in box, 2 additional handsets, can expand. White w/blue trim. 440-2239471. Also Wanted: Level/Transit. Western Reserve Memorial Garden New Mausoleum 2 inside Niches: with free weekday openings &closings, and Chapel service. Paid $4,674.60, will sell for $$3,800 or make offer. 440-729-1135.
ANTIQUES: Humpback chest, pitcher &bowls, copper kettle, clocks, sewing cabinet, wood rocking horse, wood crank wall phone, wood rockers. 440-338-3563. His & Hers Golf Clubs: bag cart included, clean. $75 each. Great Deal! 440-632-0060, leave message. Beautiful handcrafted Amish queen sized bed frame. Must see! Includes two nightstands, $350. Nordic Track treadmill, $300. Call 440-214-2646.
Free Garage Sale items. Lots of stuff. Sept 1-2, 9a-4p. 18071 Tilden Rd, Troy Twp, close to Rt.422.
Sales: Many miscellaneous items! Thurs. Fri. Sat. 10a-4p. 9098 Rt. 608 Old State Rd., Chardon. Rain or Shine.
Sept 1-2, 9a-4p, 14140 Caves Rd, Novelty. Golf clubs, kitchenware galore, shelving units, tables, mirrors, gardening, kitch&bath hardware; crib, changing table, playpen, etc; kids books, toys, and racks of like-new clothes (Gap, Hanna Andersson, OshKosh), and much more.
MS Kennels on the Farm, LLC offers in-home pet care. Call 440-636-2421.
Purebred Beagle puppies: great with children, shots and dewormed; $75/each. Dutch Rabbits: $5/each. Bantam Hens: $5/each. Bantam Roosters: free. 440321-8152.
Kittens available for adoption, 5-6 months old, fixed & vaxxed, feleuk/FIV negative, & need indoor homes. Call Rebecca 440-321-2485.
FREE fact: We’re lucky! No forest fires here! CLEAN AIR! Don’t ruin your lungs by vaping.
LOT FOR SALE: .34 acre lot, Bainbridge, Lake Lucerne amenities! Gas, electric, sanitary sewer & well-water all available. $99.9k. 440-596-2608.
Lot for sale. Thompson Township. Buildable. 1 acre. Wooded, scenic, quiet side street $15,900. 440-2890708.
Modest home with extra storage space, minimum 2-car garage. I will repair if it needs work. 440-687-5404 or rhwent20@gmail.com.
Offering special discounts for interior and exterior painting and staining. 20+ years experience. Professional and insured. Call Dan 440-342-4552.
Miller’s Tree Service: Removal of large trees. Reasonable rates. Free estimates. Call John at 440-313-6717.
T&F Transports & Removal, LLC. We offer comprehensive removal, courier & transportation services. Same day delivery! Prompt and reliable pick-ups and deliveries to your home, office, warehouse, or jobsite. We have the ability to transport/pick up or remove items big or small. Let us do the heavy lifting! Scheduling/Contact: 440-841-6491, Frank Primiano.
Grand Valley Tree Service offering complete tree removal, trimming, cleanup and lot clearing. Free Estimates. Fully Insured. 440-307-0996.
Joe Eicher doing roofing, siding, remodeling, cleanout houses, we do most anything. Call between 8a-4p, 440-813-4272. No answer, leave message.
4-wheelers, 3-wheelers, dirt bikes, mini-bikes, go-carts, golf carts, gators, farm tractors/equipment, trailers, riding mowers, snowplows. Paying cash. 440-413-3119. Will pay cash for sports cards & collectibles. Entire collections or individual cards. Organized or unorganized. Call or text Rich at 440-552-0691.
Buying all Stanley Bailey planes and machinist tools. Call Karl at 440-812-3392.
Old fishing tackle wanted: fishing lures (wood or plastic), mouse to bear traps, wooden duck decoys. Call Lee 440-313-8331.
Experienced Caregiver: will come to your home and care for your loved one. Will do light housework. Have references. 440-313-1804.
Following is a list of real estate transfers for the week ending Aug. 18, 2023, provided as a public service by the Geauga County Auditor’s Office.
AUBURN TOWNSHIP
Christine F. Steigerwald (trustee), 138 Coventry Court, to Jennifer Lyn Mcmahan, $350,000. (0.00 acres)
John L. Phillips, 11327 Taylor May Road, to Michael Shirdon, $153,500. (7.50 acres)
Jane Zimmerman (trustee), 10999 Meadow Lane, to Nicholas and Kelley Formica, $420,000. (2.54 acres)
BAINBRIDGE TOWNSHIP
Nathan D. Eaton and Nicole M. Dudas, 17793 Lost Trail, to Nicole M. Dudas, $123,500. (1.07 acres)
Kenneth A. Taylor, 8525 S. Spring Valley Park Drive, to Katy House LLC, $140,000. (1.59 acres)
BURTON VILLAGE
Jennifer A. Schweit, 14497 Hickox St., to Edeburn Holdings LLC, $173,000. (0.51 acres)
CHARDON CITY
Jeffrey L. Slater and Carol Ann Kim Klemanek Slater, 137 Ferris Ave., to Evgeny Makarev, $83,500. (0.22 acres)
Charlene N. Zulandt, North Hambden Street, to Paige and Timothy Hudec, $255,000. (1.06 acres)
CHARDON TOWNSHIP
WM R. Behrens (trustee), 10320 Pinegate Drive, to Ginny Hendricks, $416,000. (5.34 acres)
Cascade Funding Mortgage Trust HB5, 9895 Ravenna Road, to Hinesley Enterprise LLC, $209,000. (1.02 acres)
CHESTER TOWNSHIP
Kenneth Dean, 8700 Carmichael Drive, to Chandra L. Wozniak, $280,000. (1.03 acres)
Lucia and Adelio Di Franco, 8362 Sharp Lane, to Dmitrii V. Revnivtsev and Tatiana S. Strelnikova, $220,000. (0.56 acres)
Jean M. Napoli (trustee), 7160 Hunting Ridge, to Sean Michael Mcgrath and Nicholas Alan Watts, $1,315,000. (3.68 acres)
HAMBDEN TOWNSHIP
Brian H. and Patricia A. Burkey, 13801 Gar Highway, to Lori and Dominic Smith, $238,000. (0.73 acres)
Penelope T. Giza, 13514 Woodin Road, to Jeremy D. Bytnar and Cheyenne Cogar, $232,000. (2.47 acres)
HUNTSBURG TOWNSHIP
Eli E. Jr. and Sara A. Mullet, Bundysburg Road, to Rudy and Lovina Yoder, $105,000. (17.92 acres)
MIDDLEFIELD VILLAGE
Middlefield Parkway, 15237 Woodsong Drive, to NVR Inc., $64,600. (0.23 acres)
Middlefield Parkway, 15252 Woodsong Drive, to NVR Inc., $64,600. (0.21 acres)
MONTVILLE TOWNSHIP
Roseann Pecharka, Joanne Messenger, and Marianne Usiak, Plank Road, to Roseann Pecharka and Marianne Guasebath Usiak, $4,300. (1.50 acres)
NEWBURY TOWNSHIP
Gregory and Jeanine Caldwell, 15808 Arbor Trail, to Laura and Gabriel David Cotto, $499,900. (2.45 acres)
Caregiver Needed: around the clock or split shifts, in Chesterland. Able to operate Hoyer. References required. Wages, R&B. 440-339-0519.
Mary Yoder’s Amish Kitchen is hiring kitchen staff. Call 440-632-1939 and ask for Kathy for more information.
PARKMAN TOWNSHIP
Jonathan A. and Erma W. Miller 17262 Hosmer Road, to Danny R. and Mary W. Byler, $328,000. (14.99 acres)
Wayne M. and Laura A. Klatik, 17882 Hosmer Road, to Homer Alex Scurlock, $398,000. (4.38 acres)
RUSSELL TOWNSHIP
Wade Park Properties Ltd., Dines Road, to Lisa Ann Meyer, $500,000. (8.87 acres)
Manos Eliades and Louiza Iordanidou, 8275 Belle Vernon Drive, to Manos Eliades, $154,400. (3.00 acres)
SOUTH RUSSELL VILLAGE
Charlene Louise Hartson (trustee), 43 Wolfpen Drive, to Marc D. and Jenna Rossi, $605,000. (0.75 acres)
Andrew C. Ilcin (trustee), 16269 Snyder Road, to BMOD Holdings LLC, $550,000. (1.00 acres)
THOMPSON TOWNSHIP
Brigham L. Layman, Trask Road, to Richard J. Alden, $135,000. (2.46 acres)
Submit resumes to editor@geaugamapleleaf.com
Karlovec Media Group is hiring commissioned account representatives to sell print and online advertising in and around Geauga County, specifically in the eastern part of the county and in the Amish community. Candidates must be able to manage time wisely, meet deadlines and have reliable transportation. All of our staff must be willing to work in a team environment to help grow our newspapers. The ability to understand and live with a deadline-driven business is a must.
