Middlefield Post 3-22-2023

By Ann WishArt Ann@kArlovecmediA com

Huskies Strong Up Middle on Diamond

By rich kelly sports@kArlovecmediA com

The Cardinal Huskies baseball team had a solid, if unspectacular, season on baseball diamonds last season.

Cardinal finished above the break-even mark with a 12-9 record that included a 5-5 CVC Valley Division record, built mostly on solid pitching, good defense and opportune offense.

That looks to be the same basic formula for Head Coach Greg Bean again this season. The Huskies are not loaded with numbers, with 19 players comprising the entire team. That said, the junior

varsity schedule will play out with some varsity players with limited experience putting in time.

Most teams look for the strength of their teams to be up the middle on defense, and the Huskies are loaded in that area.

Pitching will be a great place to start, and

Coach Bean has a solid trio of starters who will rotate effectively between mound efforts and regular defensive positioning.

It all starts with senior righthander Jake Bean. His efforts in all Cardinal sports have been a

Soltis Grant Rupinski Leichtman

Cardinal Softball Expects An Upward Swing

By rich kelly sports@kArlovecmediA com

Last season was a rough one for the ladies of Cardinal High School on the softball diamond.

As Head Coach Haley Adams grew in building the relationship with her team, youthful inexperience played a huge role.

Unfortunately that inexperi-

ence led to many thumpings on the diamond, and when a team gets thumped, games usually end up shorter. That, in turn, does not provide the experience-building mode a team needs to grow.

The Huskies’ 2-14 record last season, including a 0-9 CVC mark, didn’t provide the experiences needed to improve the product. At

Town Crier

Geauga Dems Collect Signatures

The Geauga Democratic Party will hold two weekends of drive-thru events to collect signatures on the petition to restore reproductive rights in Ohio. Stop by party headquarters at 12420 Kinsman Road in Newbury Township from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. on March 2526 or April 1-2.

Gardening 101

March 25, 10 a.m. to noon

Geauga County Master Gardener Volunteers’ free Gardening 101 series continues with “Seed Selection and Planting Plan” in the Patterson Center at the Geauga County Extension Office, 14269 Claridon-Troy Road, Burton. Master gardeners Dick Coin and Charlie Stevens will guide attendees in making seed choices, plant selection and planting plan.

Registration is not required but is appreciated. Contact Wendy Ward at 440-834-4656 or email ward.714@osu.edu.

G.A.R. Highway Presentation

April 3, 6 p.m.

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

GCRTA To Meet

April 4, 11:15 a.m.

The Geauga County Retired Teachers Association will meet at the St. Denis Golf Course, 10660 Chardon Road, Chardon. The business meeting will be followed by a pork medallions lunch at noon.

Judge Terri Stupica will speak about the most serious legal issues she faces in her court. A 50/50 raffle and free lunch raffle will follow.

For reservations, send a check for $21 made out to GCRTA to Judy Miller, 17130 Kinsman Road, Middlefield, OH 44062 to arrive no later than March 25.

Bring paper products or canned goods for Geauga County Job and Family Services. All retired school employees are welcome to join.

FOW Night at the Races

April 15, 6-9 p.m.

Friends of WomenSafe is hosting its first annual Night at the Race at Centerville Mills, 8558 Cracker Road, Bainbridge Township.

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

Veterans Resource Fair

April 19, 3-6 p.m.

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

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

Agencies attending include: VA Regional Office, Veterans Food Pantry, Geauga Recorder, Department on Aging, Ohio Means Jobs, Auditors (Homestead), Vet Center and University Hospitals Geauga.

To register by April 14, call 440-279-1860 or email Geaugavet@CO.GEAUGA.OH.US

American Legion Fundraiser

April 22

Burton American Legion Atwood-Mauck Post 459 is hosting two fundraisers and gun raffles on the same day at the post located at 14052 Goodwin Ave., Burton. All proceeds benefit the post to add a wheelchair accessible ramp entrance and ADA compliant upstairs bathroom.

An Amish barbecue luncheon and bluegrass band concert featuring The Country Strings will be held from 2-6 p.m. Doors open at 1:30 p.m. Lunch ticket is $25.

Then, from 6-9 p.m., attend a World War II U.S.O. big band dinner dance featuring dinner by Mangia Mangia and music by Dan Zola Orchestra. Doors open at 5:30 p.m. Dinner ticket is $35. Event also features a silent auction and photo booth.

There will be basket and 50/50 raffles, four gun raffles and games all day.

Life Recovery 12 Step Meeting

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.

Grief Support Group

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

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

A Glimpse of Yesteryear

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This is how East Elm Street, now East High, looked in the 1950s when I was a boy. The first building on the left is the original MIDDLEFIELD BANK building with a new front addition. Because the original building sat farther back from the road, a ramp was built in the new front addition to get to the teller area. It actually made the bank premises occupy the second floor.

DOROTHY KIMBALL’S BEAUTY SHOP, and later JIM’S BARBER SHOP, occupied a small space on the first floor. Coming down the street is MIDDLEFIELD HARDWARE, owned by Charlie Harrington. I can remember going in and Charlie would know every piece of inventory in the store and just where to find it. Sometimes it meant going down the creaky steps into the basement and Charlie would dig around in some dark, dusty corner and would always come up with what you were looking for.

GROCERY STORE, where I got my first real job when I was 13. I worked for Clarence Lorson after school on Thursday, Friday and all day Saturday for 60 cents an hour. There was also a restaurant in the basement called the NIBBLE NOOK, where you could get a light lunch.

EDITH RITCHIE’S DRY GOODS STORE was next where you could get notions and materiel, and at one time the ladies of town could buy a dress. MIDDLEFIELD 5¢ & $1.00 store was next and was owned by Maude Lorson, wife of Clarence. She was later joined in the business by her two sons, Earl and Rich Warne.

Times were certainly different then. All of the retail stores were owned by people who actually worked in them and everyone would close for the afternoon on Wednesday. I have many fond memories of growing up in this time.

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Cooking with Catherine

Coffee Break with Sue PLAIN COUNTRY Viewpoints from the Amish Community

Dear readers, this is a beautiful day — cold but sun shining brightly. Before I forget, I want to make a correction in the Fluffy Raspberry Salad recipe. I forgot to write the amount of water; it is 2 cups.

Sausage Casserole:

1 pound tater tots

1/2 teaspoon onion powder

3/4 cup shredded cheddar cheese

1 pound loose sausage

1 tablespoon mustard

3 eggs, beaten

1 cup whole milk

1/4 cups shredded mozzarella cheese

Brown sausage, drain. Layer tater totes in a greased 2-quart baking dish. Sprinkle with onion powder. Top with shredded cheddar cheese. Top with browned sausage mixed with 1 tablespoon mustard. Mix together eggs and milk, pour over all. Bake uncovered at 375 degrees for 45 minutes. Top with 1/4 cup shredded mozzarella cheese. Heat until cheese is melted.

Oven Pancakes:

2 tablespoon butter

2 eggs

1-1/4 cups milk

3/4 cup flour

1-1/2 tablespoons sugar

1/2 teaspoon baking powder

1/4 teaspoon salt

Preheat oven to 400 degrees. Melt butter in a 9-inch square baking pan. In a medium bowl, beat together eggs and 1/4 cup of the milk. In another bowl, sift together flour, sugar, baking powder and salt, and add to egg mixture. Slowly add the remaining cup of milk and mix. Pour over melted butter in the pan. Bake for 20 minutes, then cut into squares. This is a no fuss recipe.

Harvesting and Storing Herbs

This is something I want to try this year. So, I’ll be learning with you. Herbs are best harvested fresh, but many can be dried or preserved in other ways to enjoy them when fresh herbs aren’t available.

Herbs such as basil, tarragon and marjoram will become bushier if you harvest the growing tips first. Later, harvest the larger side leaves. Pick the outer leaves of parsley, sorrel, lovage and salad burnet first. More leaves will continue to grow from the center of the plant.

Harvest leaves and sprigs from rosemary, thyme and sage from positions that will not spoil the shape of the plant. Try not to harvest heavily from one part of the plant.

Harvest chives and Welsh onions by cutting them down to about 1-1/2 inches with scissors. The leaves will regrow, but remove only as many as you need, rather than cut down the whole plant.

Although most herbs are best enjoyed fresh, most can be dried or frozen. Dill, thyme, mint, rosemary, parsley and sage can be dried. I have done parsley. I put it in my raised bed on one end. I usually have it grow back each summer for around 3 years. It lasts till fall.

I also have a mint plant. I planted it at the southside of the house. It does very well. I make homemade hot and cold tea. I can the cold tea and open it whenever I like. I also dry some for hot tea in the winter.

I plant dill in my vegetable garden. It’s very hardy and easy to grow. I want to try basil and thyme, also chives. I want to plan those in pots so I can bring it inside in the winter.

Well, good luck! We’ll see how well they do. Or if I’ll kill them all. Smile! I have to see where they are used best to put flavor in my recipes.

See you all next time. God bless everyone.

By susAn yoder middlefield toWnship

A friendly hello to all readers, The weather is still on the cool side. I want to get some seeds ASAP. Those early veggies are so yummy as the warms.

Aunt Lydia Troyer is or was in the hospital. Mose, too, is still recuperating from having an open heart surgery. Send them some cheer at 16733 Farmington Road, W. Farmington, OH 44491.

We recently visited at friends Dan and Lydiann Miller up on Clay Street. They are mourning the passing of her dad, Andy Burkholder. Dans also care for her handicapped siblings, Allen, Fannie and Linda. Their address is 11570 Clay St., Huntsburg, OH 44046.

Let’s also cheer Andy’s widow, Sarah

Burkholder. Her address is 11574 Clay St., Huntsburg, OH 44046. Dan’s daughter, Krissy, and Joe and family are in the process of moving in with Sarah.

The family of Levi Salome Miller recently hosted a benefit for her at the Buster Miller farm. They had a good turnout.

Our hearts go out to the family of Mrs. David (Linda) Kaufman, age 44, who suddenly passed away of an apparent heart attack. She leaves a large family, including her widowed dad, Dan E. Miller.

Our seven chickens love these longer days, noticeably laying more eggs.

The wild turkeys are regularly coming up to our yards, around 30 of them! They are quite entertaining, especially when the toms start a-strutting.

‘Til next time . . . Being kind is more important than being right.

Ramblings from Windsor

By ruth Byler

Howdy friends! The first day of spring has now come and gone, and we are looking out the window to a pile of snow. It’s beautiful from the inside looking out.

I think we’ve all heard the shocking news about the passing of the middle-aged mom, Linda Kauffman. Let’s not forget that family! And keep them in our thoughts and prayers. It could’ve been my mom, or your mom . . . God only takes the best.

So before you start reading this, I do want to tell you, not being around when this story happened, I really didn’t have any details. So, yes, I imagined kind of how it would have been and that’s how it got written. :) So, it’s based on a true story with details added.

Expect the unexpected — Mary stacked some warm chocolate chip cookies on a plate. Andy she said, “I am taking some cookies out in the shop for the guys and while I have my coat on I want to call your specialist right away, too,” if no one is using the phone.

“OK,” Andy replied, as he shuffled from his chair to the kitchen for cookies.

Good, thought Mary, as she headed out with her cookies, no one is using the phone right now and I will be able to make my call right away, but why don’t I put the receiver off the hook so no one calls while I set the cookies in the office.

Now, we all know where it happened. Right outside the phone building. We know when it happened, on Monday, March 13. But how did it happen? Next thing we know she is on the ground with her now broken leg oddly positioned beneath her.

With a gasp, a leap and a bound, the workers sprung to action. Andy U. and Chris, they helped her up and took care of her. David, now he stood there gazing at the cookies all over the ground. And Spunky, that lil’ collie, was still trying to figure out why everyone was giving Mary so much

attention just because she brought him a whole plate full of cookies. That leaves Uria yet and, who knows, he might still be standing at the office door shaking his head.

A few calls were made and Andy Mary and Marty were off to Geauga hospital. After talking to some nurses and doctors, they decided to come home and head somewhere else the next day to get a second opinion. Tuesday morning arrived and they waited and waited for their driver, finally deciding to give him a call to see if he is still arriving or what’s going on. “Yes,” he said, “I am just ready to leave my house, do I have the time wrong?”

Obviously you do, yes. It’s an hour later than we were expecting you.

What? Wait, did we have time change this weekend. Uh oh, obviously his clocks don’t change themselves and he was unaware of the time change. One hour later he arrived.

Andy Mary and Dorothy were off to Trumbull Memorial ER, where they spent all day in the hall, until way past dinner time when a tall guy with a big heart moved them into a room.

Then came Wednesday and with that came surgery. Finally, by Wednesday afternoon, everyone was headed for home. Mary with screws and plates in her leg and a big cast.

She needs to wear her cast for two weeks and then replace it for a boot. She has a very good nurse and he goes by the name of Eck Andy, who will watch her like a hawk when her children or grands aren’t around.

March 13, 1998, two months before her first daughter’s wedding, she fell and had a badly broken arm. March 13, 2023, two months before her first granddaughter’s wedding, she breaks her leg. Maybe we’ll get her to stay inside from now on, on March 13 :) Heal fast grandma and take care!

If you wish to help either of them pass the time, the address is 12880 Clay St., Middlefield, OH 44062.

‘Til next time . . . Think spring, it’s just around the corner.

Lifelong Friends Near Milestone Birthday

Lillian Ford Rauch, of Middlefield, and Pat Black, of Mentor, share much in common. They were born on the same day: April 8, 1933. They both grew up in the same community in Newbury Township: Fullertown. The once bustling community, located at the intersection of Sperry and Fairmount roads,

was one of the four original settlements of Newbury. Lillian was a farm girl whose parents were caretakers of the Black family farm on Fairmount Road. And even better, they were friends then and nearly 90 years later they are still friends today. Happy 90th to Lillian and Pat.

American Legion Post 459

Sundays, Feb. 26 – April 16, 9 a.m. to 1 p.m.

Atwood-Mauck American Legion Post 459 is serving its annual all-you-can-eat pancake, sausage and scrambled eggs breakfasts every Sunday through April 16, except for Easter, at the post located at 14052 Goodwin St. in Burton. Eat in or take out. For information, call Skip at 440313-2095.

Burton Fire Station

March 26, 9 a.m. to 1 p.m.

Burton Fire Station will serve an allyou-can-eat pancake and sausage breakfast at the station located at 13828 Spring St. in Burton. call 440-834-4416 for information.

Burton Health Care

March 24 and 31, 10 a.m. to noon

Burton Health Care is offering free

drive thru pancake breakfasts. RSVP to Kimberly at 440-834-1084.

Geauga Historical Society

March 26, 9 a.m. to 2 p.m.

The Geauga County Historical Society is hosting an all-you-can-eat pancake breakfast at the Century Village Museum, 14653 East Park St. in Burton. Cost is $10 for adults; $5 for children 5-12 years and free to children 4 and under. Takeout is also available.

For more information, call 440-8341492.

Parkman Chamber Pancakes

March 26, 9 a.m. to 1 p.m.

Parkman Chamber of Commerce hosts its annual pancake breakfast at the Parkman Community House, 16295 Main Market Road. Enjoy the special recipe sausage and local pure maple syrup. Cost is $10 for adults and $5 for children ages 5-10. Eat in or drive-thru/carry out.

Softball from page 1

the same time, Coach Adams has a new crew coming into the program, the third under her leadership, and with some solid additions from the freshman class to supplement the gained experience of upperclassmen, she foresees plenty of improvement coming.

“The experiences we gained last season, even in games that didn’t go the distance because we were getting beaten, gives us a lot to start with this season,” she said recently during a practice session in the Cardinal gymnasium. Recent snows and rains have made it tough to get outside to play.

“Our defense will be a lot stronger this year,” Adams said. “The girls learned a lot last year, too, and even though we are a young team again, we learned how to make adjustments on offense, in particular, that will help this year.

“Hitting is tough, but the girls are learning still to make adjustments to get deeper into counts. If we make our hitting more selective, we will generate more offense, and that will take any pressure off of our pitching and defense. “

With a roster of 17 this season, Adams also will have to make more choices to keep players involved and focused in games.

In the tough Chagrin Valley Conference Valley division, the Huskies will be more competitive, and much of that begins in the circle in the middle of the infield. This season, Cardinal will find a pair of talented freshmen to get things started in Dakota Gillespie and Maggie Grant. Both are right-handers with good credentials coming in from youth programs, and that’s a good place to begin.

Gillespie will move to first base when Grant pitches, while Grant likely will play third base when the former is on the bump.

Another freshman, A’Mauri Littlejohn, will get playing time in the outfield.

After getting their feet wet last season as raw rookies at the varsity level, sophomores Bri Lew, Kayleigh Duncan, Isabella McMurray, Shawna Coleman and Rylie Leichtman will contribute. The first four will get a lot of outfield play, while Leichtman will learn

her craft at the infield corners or behind the plate.

Juniors are Morgan Soltis, Hanna Hansen, Kylie Miller, Alaina Rupinski and Casey Koeth. Soltis, Hansen and Koeth will also fit into the outfield, Rupinski will man the up-the-middle defensive positions at second base and shortstop, and Miller will focus at first base.

With only a trio of seniors on the roster in Jasmine Newman, Kelsi Collins and Emily Doolittle, youth will be served for the Huskies under their leadership skills.

Newman and Collins will also patrol the green pastures of the outfield, and Collins will also see time up the middle at second and shortstop.

“We’ve set up a stacked schedule this season,” Adams said. “We are in a very tough league to begin with, and we’ve added some tough non-conference games as well, such as St. John from Ashtabula County. They are always tough, especially for a small school, and basically everybody we play is a good team.

“We’re blessed to have gained so much experience last season, though. We have girls who can play multiple positions on the field, so we will be able to mix things up depending on who we are playing. The skill sets improved dramatically last season, even when we were losing games, and having a pair of good freshmen pitching is going to give us more of an edge to begin with each time out.”

Getting the bottom of the lineup to contribute more on offense will be a big key, too, Adams said, but now the girls know they can get it done.

The learning process continues for Cardinal’s girls softball, but expect a vastly improved team to step out onto the diamonds this season.

Geauga Public Library

MIDDLEFIELD BRANCH

16167 East High St., Middlefield, 440-6321961. Programs require registration unless otherwise noted. Visit www.geaugalibrary.net.

Microsoft Word Basics

March 23, 2 p.m.

Learn the basics of Microsoft Word to

write screenplays, newsletters, business letters, recipes and more with ease.

Book Group

March 28, 7 p.m.

Discuss “In the Time of the Butterflies” by Julia Alvarez. No registration required.

Rupinski and Collins

Baseball from page 1

great starting point for the Huskies, and as the ace of the staff, Bean, relying mostly on a dynamite fastball to mix with good breaking pitches, will keep opposing hitters off balance each time out.

He will be joined by another all-around great athlete in Troy Domen, a junior, and a solid three-man rotation will be capped by junior Logan Strever. When not on the mound, that trio will find itself at first base, shortstop and center field to provide the Huskies with quickness and athleticism up the middle.

That concept will be completed behind the plate by junior Jackson Puruczsky.

Third base will be handled by sophomore Carter Tucker, and the outfield will have sophomore Austin Jones in right field and senior super-athlete Josh Soltis holding down the fort in left field.

Senior Trent Mooney, then, will supply solid consistency at second base.

Reserves include senior infielder Aaron Pestyk, senior outfielder Eric Rought, sophomore Matt Hissa and freshman Blake Stever on the infield, and backup catcher Hunter Gresch.

Cardinal’s only foreseeable problem might be similar to last year’s edition: producing runs.

“I think we’re going to be similar to last year in a very competitive CVC Valley Division,” Coach Bean said. “We played well against some really good teams last year. In going 5-5 in the division, we beat a good Harvey team twice and lost to a very good Grand Valley team twice; otherwise, we split

with everybody. Our biggest problem was in producing runs.

“We’re not a bunch of big boppers, but we can hit in situations and we have decent gap power on offense. With the defense we have up the middle, I think we’re in a good position to compete every time out once again.”

Coach Bean said CVC teams from the north provide some closer games to play, but Cardinal expects to be “right there near the top.” He predicted Edgewood would be the toughest team they’d face.

“They’re always good anyway, but you can see from the successes their basketball team had this year that they are loaded with good athletes once again,” he said. “It’s really important to have our core players back again this season. With a solid rotation like I have to work with, depending on who starts on the mound this season, I will be able to put just about the top trio of pitchers in place and still have good players in the field that will maintain the core of what we have to work with to succeed.”

Teams that are all too familiar with the exploits of Soltis, Domen, Bean, Mooney and Strever in other sports will take the diamond against the Huskies this season knowing they had better not let down their guard at any time. This core of players, no matter where they are in the Cardinal lineup, will put the ball into play on offense, run the bases with speed and ability, take the extra bases when opportunity knocks, and even hit the long ball on occasion.

Playing solid defense up the middle in unison with solid pitching, the staple in any good defensive setup, should propel the Huskies to the top of the CVC once again.

Geauga Parks District

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

Spring Turkey Hunt

Geauga Park District is offering a turkey hunting opportunity this spring on a park property.

For the option to participate, applicants must complete the form located on the park district’s website and email it to permits@ geaugaparkdistrict.org or drop in the mail.

Applications are due March 27 for the youth hunt taking place April 15 and 16 and are due April 3 for the regular hunt taking place April 29 through May 28.

Hunters will be selected by random drawing and notified via email of their acceptance and hunt location. Permits will also be sent

Help Available for Home Energy Bills

The Ohio Department of Development and Geauga County Job and Family Services reminds Geauga County residents that assistance is available to help with their home energy bills. The Home Energy Assistance Program helps Ohioans at or below 175% of the federal poverty guidelines pay their heating bills. Ohioans who are threatened with disconnection, have been disconnected from their utility service, transferring service, establishing new services or at or below 25% bulk fuel may be eligible for the HEAP Winter Crisis Program, which runs through March 31, 2023.

Geauga residents may apply for the Winter Crisis Program through Geauga County Job and Family Services by calling 440-285-1299. Application for the WPC is by telephone interview only and appointments are currently being scheduled. Ohioans can visit energyhelp.ohio.gov to apply for HEAP online, download a copy of the application or find contact information. Individuals will need to have copies of the following:

• Most recent utility bills

• A list of all household members, birthdates and Social Security numbers

• Proof of income for the past 30 days for all household members

• Proof of citizenship or legal residency for all household members

• Proof of disability, if applicable

Those needing immediate assistance with their energy bill should contact Geauga County Job and Family Services at 440-285-9141.

electronically. Details about submitting an application can be found on the form.

National Take A Walk In The Park Day

March 30

Park district naturalists are gearing up for a special celebration of National Take a Walk in the Park Day by leading six walks throughout Geauga County.

Hour-long outings will be held to explore Beartown Lakes Reservation at 8:30 a.m., Frohring Meadows at 10:30 a.m., The West Woods at 12:30 p.m., Swine Creek Reservation at 2:30 p.m., Claridon Woodlands at 4:30 p.m. and Eldon Russell Park at 6:30 p.m. Visit the district website for information on each walk as well as registration.

Help Available for Water, Wastewater Bills

The Ohio Department of Development and Geauga County Job and Family Services will help income-eligible Ohioans with water and wastewater assistance.

The Low-Income Household Water Assistance Program provides eligible Ohio residents assistance paying water and wastewater bills who are threatened with disconnection or in a past-due status. The program is available until Sept. 30, 2023.

Geauga County residents should contact Geauga County Job and Family Services to apply for the program. A phone interview is required.

Applicants will need to provide copies of the following, along with completing the interview:

• Copies of their most recent water/wastewater bills,

• A list of all household members and proof of income for the last 30 days or 12 months for each member,

• Proof of United States citizenship or legal residency for all household members. For more information about the Low-Income Household Water Assistance Program, call Geauga County JFS at 440-285-9141. Additional information can also be obtained by visiting www.energyhelp.ohio.gov or by calling 800-282-0880.

Schools

Academic Awards Available

The Awards Committee for the First Congregational Church of Claridon announces the availability of awards for the 2023-24 academic year. The purpose of the award is to encourage people to further their education through a traditional college, trade school or the equivalent.

Graduating high school seniors, college students or high school graduates are encouraged to apply. Candidates should be prepared to write about church, school and community involvement.

Application forms are available through the guidance offices of Chardon, Berkshire and Cardinal schools or Claridon Congrega-

tional Church, 13942 Mayfield Road, Huntsburg, OH 44046. Completed applications should be mailed to the church and must be postmarked by April 14.

PGP Offers Scholarships

Protect Geauga Parks is offering its sixth annual Bob McCullough Memorial Conservation Scholarship to assist Geauga County high school seniors interested in pursuing careers in science, environmental studies or environmental policy advocacy.

Three scholarships of $1,000 each will be awarded. Applications are due by April 16. Visit ProtectGeaugaParks.us for application information and eligibility. Questions? Email info.protectgeaugaparks@gmail.com.

Fire from page 1

Friday, Reed said.

The fire was reported at 8:25 p.m. March 9.

“Somebody called it in. There was a haze of smoke in the area,” he said.

The damage did not extend to Mouldings One, as was previously reported.

“The area affected by the fire was primarily used as a countertop and stair treads showroom and sales offices,” said the company’s controller, Derek Gingerich, in an email. The structure also housed management offices, door inventory, the pre-finishing operation and the shipping and receiving facility.

“The fire occurred in what the public would know as the old St. Nick Brush building,” Gingerich said.

Also owned by The Harwood Lumber Co. in the same area are Mouldings One and Sheoga Hardwood Flooring and Paneling Inc., at 15320 Burton Windsor Road, Middlefield Township.

“Hardwood Lumber Company, Mouldings One and Sheoga Hardwood Flooring & Paneling remain open for business and are continuing to fulfill current and future orders,” Gingerich said. “We are eager to work through this difficult time to grow and rebuild our business to allow for the continued growth and success of our organization while allowing us the efficiency and capacity to increase our product offerings to our customers and community members.”

Gingerich added on social media: “It’s one of those things that you wish you never have to deal with. Unfortunately, Thursday evening (we) experienced a devastating fire that destroyed our showroom, offices and a portion of our production area. Luckily, no one was working or inside the building at the time of the fire. The good news is we operate across four buildings which will allow us to continue our production of our products with

ANN WISHART/KMG

Middlefield firefighters were still attacking hot spots on Station Road in Middlefield Township the evening of March 11. Fire departments from neighboring counties and Geauga helped fight the huge blaze that started on March 9.

a minor bump in service.

“I would like to thank all of the community members who have reached out to help, brought food to those of us working and fighting the fire and would like to thank the entire Geauga County emergency services and first responders and their mutual aid companies who worked for hours fighting this fire and protecting our property. We truly appreciate it.

“Today, we look in the future of how we rebuild a bigger and better showroom, office and production area that takes Hardwood Lumber Company and its employees and products to the next level.”

The fire is under investigation by the Middlefield Fire Department, the Geauga County Fire Investigation Unit and the State Fire Marshal’s Office.

Foundation for Geauga Parks Welcomes New President

By rose nemunAitis editor@kArlovecmedi

A series of serendipitous events a few years ago led nature-enthusiast Eric Sukalac to join the growing philanthropic group the Foundation for Geauga Parks.

“My office happened to be next door to the foundation’s at the time and I started hearing conversations in the hallway about parks, so I started asking questions about the organization,” Sukalac said.

Longtime friend and FGP board Trust ee Mary Beth O’Neill invited him to sit in on meetings. In 2021, he became an active board member and this year, is serving as president.

“I’m very excited about the opportunity to now serve as president and hope to foster an environment where we can work together to further our mission,” Sukalac said.

FGP is an independent, nonprofit orga nization created to fund community engage ment with nature through education, preser vation, conservation and appreciation of the unique natural character of Geauga County.

As president, Sukalac hopes to see the foundation continue to grow in every way.

“We’re looking to further expand our board, our volunteer base, and the grants and scholarships that we’ve established to support our mission,” Sukalac said. “I’m excited to continue the mission of the foundation to support all parks in Geauga County with the help and talents of our donors, sponsors, volunteers, staff and board. There are many great projects for us to work on together in 2023 and more on the horizon.”

Sukalac said he came to appreciate how diverse landscapes in Geauga can be. In a single park, people can find a beach, beautiful wooded trails and an enormous sledding hill.

Sukalac lives with his wife and two young boys in Newbury Township and has a bachelor’s degree in computer engineering from Case Western Reserve University. He is the chief product officer for TPA Stream, Inc., a software service organization helping administer employee benefits.

Sukalac and two friends founded the company in 2014 and he said he is developing the next generation of employee benefit solutions.

In his newest role, Sukalac hopes FGP benefits from his enthusiasm for Geauga County and its many parks, as well as his strong technical and strategic planning background.

Former FGP President Adam Henry said Sukalac’s passion and talents are a great benefit to the organization.

“We are excited to continue the founda-

tion’s momentum with Eric’s leadership,” he said. “He has been an active volunteer and board member for several years, from participating in foundation programs like our Explorer Series to streamlining day-to-day operations in the office. Eric’s vision for the foundation’s future is energizing for the organization and it is an honor the pass the reins to him.”

With such a fervent group of people involved in the foundation and a wonderful collection of partner organizations, Sukalac said he wants to maximize the impact their collective efforts can have for the foundation’s mission.

His fascination for the county’s nature bounties dates back to his high school days.

He grew up in Concord Township and first experienced Geauga County while attending high school at Notre Dame-Cathedral Latin School.

“As soon as I was old enough to drive, I found myself exploring all that Geauga has to offer,” Sukalac said.

His first job was working at the dining room at Punderson Manor and his free time was spent playing music with friends outside Coffee Corners in Burton Village.

He moved to Geauga in 2012 with his

wife, Deanna, where they’ve raised their two boys, Jude and Malachi.

“Growing up, my family spent a lot of time exploring parks in Northeast Ohio — Headlands Beach State Park and the Holden Arboretum,” Sukalac said, adding Geauga Park District’s Veteran’s Legacy Woods in Newbury Township is one of his favorite parks.

The collection of parks and nature preserves between the GPD, individual townships and nature preserves are wonderful for residents to enjoy, he said.

“We’re all very fortunate to live in a place with such a wide variety of natural landscapes and the support of those looking to preserve them,” Sukalac said.

The outdoors has become his home office where he can speak on his phone and take care of the business while enjoying Geauga’s ecosystem.

“The nature of my work requires me to be on the phone quite a bit and the workfrom-home movement has really freed me up to spend time in our parks while working. In good weather, you’ll find me at Veterans Legacy Woods, the Rookery, or Burton Township’s Veterans Memorial Forest and Park, walking and talking,” Sukalac said.

While it’s important to recognize Geauga

has so many great parks, he emphasized the need to maintain them.

“It will take the continued shared efforts of all of our partners to make sure that these beautiful resources are conserved and preserved for future generations,” Sukalac said.

He issued a call to residents who admire and use the parks to join FGP and support its mission.

“We love parks. Our board of directors, staff, volunteers and donors stand firmly behind our mission to raise money for all of the parks in Geauga County,” he said. “We team up with other organizations to educate, preserve and support the parks.

“For anyone else who may be interested in parks in Geauga County, I’d encourage them to learn more, donate or simply come say hello at one of our monthly explorer series hikes,” he added. “Please join us this year and every year in our work to protect and preserve our many parks in Geauga for future generations.”

The foundation will be hosting the Caveman Crawl 5k on June 11 at Geauga Park District’s The West Woods, 9465 Kinsman Rd., Russell Township.

The Foundation for Geauga Parks newest president, Eric Sukalac, looks forward to carrying on his group’s mission and helping future generations. FGP trustees, from left, are Sheryl Vernon, Kyriaki Karalis, Adam Henry, Mary Beth O’Neill, Keith Corkwell, Mark Sarlson, Marcia Owen, Dan Best and Sukalac. Trustees not shown are Matthew Burnham, Andy Bushman, Carl Langer and Linda Brown Pallay.

Classifieds FOR RENT

Room for Let, $600, Russell. Call for details 440-3385201.

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

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

COMMERCIAL RENTALS

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

FOR SALE

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

8-foot wide agricultural disc for 3-point hitch tractor. No beauty, but built like a battleship. $200. 440-548-2414.

Windsor road-bike $500. Horse-drawn sleigh $500. Western saddle $500. Honda push-mower $300. (8)Fishing poles $200/for all. 845-9870079.

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

Woodburning stove custom hearth 2012 2-speed blower EC, heats 2,500-sq-ft, $800. Snowblower 2-stage 26” EC, $300. 216-244-3767.

Brother JX2517 Sewing Machine VGC $45. Samsung 24” monitor VGC $35. 18” flat TV $25. Teeter traction table $150. 440-431-6944.

NEW Panasonic cordless phone, still in box, 2 additional handsets, can expand. White w/blue trim. 440-223-9471. Also Wanted: Level/Transit.

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

HELP WANTED

Wanted: Retired person to drive one man painter to work and possibly work with me 2-3 days a week. 440-6365348.

Full-time and part-time positions available for infant/toddler preschool and school-age teacher. Experience preferred, but not required. Call Audrey 440-729-8255.

Suburban Driving School-Chesterland, looking for individuals to teach driver’s education. Paid training. Call 440-729-4360 or 216-536-6708 or email resume: contact@suburbandriveohio.com. Looking for someone to come to my house in Chagrin Falls to help with household cleaning. 440509-1777.

PETS & ANIMALS

Bunnies for sale. 440-632-9651.

Mini Male Poodle: born 11-22-22, all white, mostly house-trained, very playful. UTD on shots and wormer. $600. 440-635-6607.

REAL ESTATE

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

SERVICES

Joe Eicher doing roofing, siding, remodeling, cleanout houses, we do most anything. Call between 8a-4p, 440813-4272. No answer, leave message.

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

WANTED TO BUY

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. Call Karl, 440-812-3392. Old fishing tackle wanted: fishing lures (wood or plastic), mouse to bear traps, wooden duck decoys. Call Lee 440313-8331.

Faith Matters The Drama of Life

The story of Joseph is one of my favorite Bible stories. It has all the ingredients of a gripping drama, with good guys, bad guys, deceit, temptation, unfair circumstances, joy and sorrow, deliverance, forgiveness and a happy ending. The plot is so well put together, and the author is God.

You and I enjoy stories that keep us on the edge of our seats. The sus pense is gut wrenching, yet so powerful and captivating. I en joy reading about the American Civil War. The courage, sacrifice, strategies employed and even the element of divine providence keep me coming back for more.

However, when it comes to the story of our own lives, we are a bit more reluctant to appreciate the drama. After all, this is real life and not just an enter taining novel. We fret over circumstances we can’t control, do battle with personalities we aren’t fond of, and despair of outcomes that appear to be hopeless.

portunity to grow in patience, perseverance and trust in God.

You really need to read the account of Joseph’s life in Genesis 37-50. Initially favored and spoiled by his father Jacob, Joseph seemed to have every blessing. However, his jealous brothers decided they had seen enough. Intending to murder him, they finally settled on selling him into slavery. Yet, even as a slave in a foreign country, Joseph distinguished himself as a highly gifted man with real character, favored by God. Ironically, even at his lowest, most difficult moments, the Scripture says that, “The Lord was with Joseph.”

By Roger Kruse

What if God is using the events and scenarios of our lives to get our attention and teach us valuable lessons that transcend our desire for comfort and preference for well-being? The obvious answer is, “Yes, He is.” The Lord’s love for you is so great, that He allows hardships and difficult seasons of life to grow you stronger in your faith. “What kind of love is that?” you may ask.

Smooth sailing through life is not a recipe for learning and growth. When the road is easy, we tend to take things for granted, maintain the status quo and perpetuate ongoing behaviors. When problems come knocking at our door, we are forced to figure out what it will take to solve the dilemma at hand. God’s intention is that we might sooner, rather than later, reach the point where we look to Him for wisdom, strength and help. In the meantime, our circumstances give us the op-

God does not abandon us when things seem to go wrong. To the contrary, the Bible tell us that, “The Lord is near to the brokenhearted and saves those who are crushed in spirit” (Psalm 34:18). Your struggles are meant to be an invitation to depend on God. Isaiah tells us that, “If you do not stand firm in your faith, you will not stand at all.” Put aside your pity party and take bold steps to trust God and watch Him work. You will see the deep and amazing things that only He can do.

When Joseph stood before his brothers as the Prime Minister of Egypt, they were petrified that he would exact his revenge on them. However, with wisdom and grace Joseph replied, “You intended to harm me, but God intended it for good… the saving of many lives.”

Jesus wants to become your foundation for living. As you learn to love, trust and obey Him, you will know the outworking of His many blessings, even in your hardships.

Roger Kruse has known seasons of life that have brought difficulty and suffering. Nevertheless, He can say with Joseph, “God intended it for good.”

Real Estate Transfers

Following is a list of area real estate transfers for the weeks ending March 3 and March 10, 2023, provided as a public service by the Geauga County Auditor’s Office. Transfers may involve the sale of land only.

HUNTSBURG TOWNSHIP

Martin R. and Emma J. Mullet, 15810 Durkee Road, to Paul E. Byler and Miriam L. Shrock, $400,000. (9.70 acres)

MIDDLEFIELD TOWNSHIP

John M. and Sarah A. Miller, 17109 Bridge Road, to Joseph J. Jr. and Clara A. Yoder, $185,000. (2.99 acres)

Jake S. and Lavina W. Byler, 14240 Bundysburg Road, to Matthew M. and Katie F. Miller, $200,000. (7.00 acres)

Nancy Darlene Jacques (TOD), 15448 Georgia Road, to Andrew M. Pellegrine,

$265,000. (1.40 acres)

MIDDLEFIELD VILLAGE

Elaine W. Naylor, 15910 Grove St., to Ryan, Caitlin, and Andrew Naylor, $98,500. (0.46 acres)

PARKMAN TOWNSHIP

Daniel A. and Miriam F. Yoder, Swine Creek Road, to Allen F. and Marcia J. Yoder, $145,000. (2.50 acres)

Tushar Amin and Sandeep Sheth, 16268 Main Market Road, to Tushar Amin, $89,100. (0.17 acres)

Tushar Amin and Sandeep Sheth, 16260 Main Market Road, to Tushar Amin, $6,400. (0.90 acres)

John M. and Anna M. Miller, 16507 Bundysburg Road, to David E. Miller, $290,000. (12.37 acres

Community Meetings

Listed are public meetings and executive sessions in Huntsburg, Middlefield and Parkman townships, the Village of Middlefield and Cardinal Schools for the coming weeks. (Please note: These meeting notices are NOT legal notices.)

Huntsburg Township: April 4, 7 p.m., Board of Trustees. All meetings held at the

Town Hall, 16534 Mayfield Road.

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

Cardinal BOE: March 22, 6:30 p.m., work session. All meetings held at BOE Office, 15982 E. High St., Middlefield, unless otherwise indicated.