Middlefield Post 2-8-23

Community News from Middlefield, Parkman, Huntsburg and Surrounding Areas

Fate of ‘Spelling Bee’ Remains Uncertain

By ann WishaRt ann@KaRlovecmedia com

Drama surrounding Cardinal Schools’ proposed production of “The 25th Annual Putnam County Spelling Bee” took center stage Feb. 1 during an informal but tense discussion among the controversy’s central cast.

Production Director Vanessa Allen, Superintendent Jack Cunningham, board members Wendy Anderson and Katie Thomas, Cardinal Middle School Principal Mike Hall and a teachers’ union representative met to discuss how best to move forward following the board’s Jan. 25 decision to cancel “Spelling Bee” over its PG-13 content (see related story on page 6).

Among the options discussed was making changes to the production. There are legal limits to doing so — characters and storylines can’t be changed, and any changes must go through the company that holds production rights, Allen said — but it might not be an insurmountable challenge.

Local volunteer assistant director Mandi Matchinga verified by phone Feb. 3 the “Spelling Bee” writers are willing to collaborate on a rewrite.

“We did receive an email from Rachel Sheinkin, one of the original writers,” Matchinga said.

Scheinkin offered, if given a specific list of issues, to sit down with the other writer and make adaptations and modifications to the script to address the board’s concerns and make it appropriate for our community, she added.

Concerns about the musical were brought to the board’s atten-

tion when a resident sent an email dated Jan. 11 to the board objecting to various facets of “Spelling Bee.”

The email read: “I have heard some rumblings about the content of this year’s musical. I read the script and did find it very troubling for a school performance (sexual and religious references). I also understand that the performance for the middle school will not happen due to the content.

“Also, hearsay from a student in the show is that the musical staff is trying to see how far they can go with it now and in the future. I would appreciate you looking

into this and letting us know your thoughts.

“Thank you in advance.”

Cunningham reiterated during the Feb. 1 meeting that several board members were also concerned about crude language in the “Spelling Bee” script and a song about puberty.

Allen explained one student sings she has two dads, but no one professes them to be gay.

Anderson said most people who sent emails just assumed the dads were gay.

See Musical • Page 7

Huskies Put Bite on Red Devils

By Rich Kelly spoRts@KaRlovecmedia com

As cold as Northeast Ohio was on Friday night, Cardinal Huskies post player Paul Gall applied a huge amount of heat to anything the Crestwood Red Devils tried to get done near the basket, thwarting several scoring chances.

His efforts of blocking and rebounding sparked the Huskies’ early lead, which they never gave up, winning 57-48 in Chagrin Valley Conference action.

After Dekota Johnson took a fast pass from Augie Schweickert for the game’s first points, with just under two minutes off the clock, a Gall put-back tied the score and ignited a 16-0 run for the Huskies. It was not the most artistic of point splurges, but still efficient, establishing a lead that looked rock solid in the moment.

A Charlie Schweickert 3-pointer and a bucket and free throw from

This screenshot from a choreography video shows the cast of “The 25th Annual Putnam County Spelling Bee” practicing for the musical the Cardinal Schools Board of Education canceled during an executive session Jan. 25.

Town Crier

Hot Dog Dinner

Feb. 9, 4-6 p.m.

The Bloomfield-Mespo Athletic Booster Club is hosting a hot dog dinner before the Bloomfield/Saint John basketball game in the high school cafeteria. Dinner prices range from $5 to $7. Carryout will be available.

For more information, call 440-685-4711.

NEOCAG Meeting

Feb. 11, 9:15 a.m.

The NorthEast Ohio Computer-Aided Genealogy Society will hold its monthly meeting online via Zoom. The meeting opens at 9:15 a.m., with the presentation beginning at 9:45 a.m. Association of Professional Genealogists speaker Lauren Kuntzman will present “Introduction of Geneanet.” For more information and to register, visit neocag.net or email webmaster@neocag.net.

American Legion Pancakes

Sundays, Feb. 12 – 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, Feb. 12 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 440-313-2095.

Genealogical Society Meets

Feb. 14, 7-9 p.m.

Genealogical researcher Susan Hill will present “Timelines” at the next meeting of the Geauga County Genealogical Society at

Chardon Public Library. Join in person or on Zoom for a detailed program explaining the importance of timelines and how they are crucial for bringing order to a family’s history Registration is required. Visit gcgsoh.org and click on Programs and Links.

Dorothy’s Porch Giveaway

Feb. 16 and 17, 9 a.m. to 2 p.m.

Dorothy’s Porch, a free community giveaway of household items, bedding, clothing for the family, holiday items and books and toys, will be held at Celebration Lutheran Church, 10621 Auburn Road in Chardon.

Woodland Wednesdays

Feb. 22, 6 p.m.

Woodland Wednesdays workshops return with “Does Money Grow on Your Trees?” at Maplewood Career Center, 7075 State Route 88, Ravenna. Featured speakers will discuss some of the many factors that contribute to the economic value of woodlots. Learn about the benefits of participating in the CAUV tax reduction program along with federal financial assistance programs such as EQIP and CSP.

Collaborators include Soil and Water Conservation Districts, ODNR Division of Forestry, Holden Forests & Gardens, Ohio Farm Bureau and USDA-NRCS.

The program is free, but registration is required by April 6; email alerch@portageswcd.com or call 330-235-6811.

Bloodmobile

American Red Cross urges people to make and keep appointments to help avoid a blood shortage. Donation appointments may be made by visiting RedCrossBlood.org or calling 1-800-733-2767. Power Reds are available.

• Feb. 23, Middlefield Library, 16167 East High St., Middlefield, 12-6 p.m.

• March 7, First United Methodist Church, 14999 So. State St., Middlefield, 11 a.m. to 4 p.m.

• March 9, Cardinal High School, 14785 Thompson Ave., Middlefield, 9 a.m. to 2 p.m.

Spring Tree Sale

April 21 and 22

Geauga Soil and Water Conservation District (SWCD) is holding its spring tree sale. The sale offers a streamlined selection of both bareroot seedlings and 1-3 gallon container trees and shrubs. Rain barrels are also available.

For more information, tree descriptions and to place orders, visit geaugaswcd.com. Order deadline is April 6. Orders are filled on a first-come, first-served basis.

The tree sale pickup dates are April 21, from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m., and April 22, from 9 a.m. to noon, at the Geauga County Fairgrounds in Burton. Questions? Call 440-834-1122.

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.

A Glimpse of Yesteryear

Jeffrey B. Karlovec, Publisher John D. Karlovec, Editor

Cassandra C. Shofar, News Editor Jamie A. Ward, Sports Editor Karen S. Kaplan, Graphic Design

Pamela J. Molnar, Production Supervisor

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Circulation

By RicK seyeR

Shown in the above photo is the Cleveland car of the CLEVELAND & EASTERN ELECTRIC RAILWAY returning home after one of its four daily runs into the city. The tracks ran diagonally through the present Dollar General parking lot.

The creamery building on the right is where the farmers in the area brought the milk to be sold to the diaries in Cleveland. It burned down sometime in the 1930s.

The C & E car has just begun the turn in

front of the present day buildings shown on the “now” photo to begin a return trip to the city. At the end of the day, the car would stop in the car barn that was located just east of “Frost Bar” ready to begin the trip back the next day.

The C & E operated from 1899 to 1925, when the company went out of business due to fact more people had cars and roads were being improved with pavement.

I have always wondered if it had continued in business if we would be a “suburb” of Cleveland today.

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Cardinal Boosters to Raffle Off Preston Truck

By ann WishaRt ann@KaRlovecmedia com

Preston Ford of Burton is donating a Ford F-150 pickup truck that will be raffled off by the Cardinal Athletic Boosters to help cover Cardinal Schools’ pay-to-participate athletic program.

Pat Preston, owner of Preston Auto Group, met with Cardinal Schools Superintendent Jack Cunningham and more than a dozen Cardinal athletes Jan. 23 at his Ford dealership.

“We’re trying to raise $200,000 annually for all groups who have (pay-to-participate) fees,” Preston told them, adding he plans to provide a vehicle for a raffle toward that goal every year.

The red pickup truck is “loaded” with all the up-to-date technology, he said, adding he invited students to take a look inside the cab when it pulled up, freshly washed, outside the showroom.

He asked what the athletes are studying and when a couple said they are enrolled in Auburn Career Center’s auto collision program, Preston asked if they would like to work for Preston Auto Group.

He introduced Neal Shirk, his service director, who attended ACC and graduated from Cardinal High School in 1994.

“He’s real smart. I attribute that to a great education,” Preston said, adding other Cardinal graduates work at the auto center.

Cunningham said in a phone interview tickets are $20 each and will be sold at the school, on the district website, through social media and at games this year.

“The truck will be on display all over,” he

said, adding there will be a QR code in its window so passers-by can use their cell phones to buy tickets.

“We’re trying to sell 6,000 tickets. That would eliminate pay-to-participate for students and families for 2024-2025,” Cunningham said. “Working with the Preston Auto Group, I’m confident we will have a raffle each year.”

For the last five years, the cost of school athletic programs was supported by the Joe

Peters Annual Pig Roast and Friends of Mike. June 11, 2022, was the last such event.

After raising about $250,000 in five years, Joyce Peters said Jan. 28, “The family just decided to move on.”

Cunningham said he and Athletic Director Jimmy Soltis have been brainstorming on ways to fill that gap and Preston’s offer of a truck gave them some traction. He donated a Kia Sportage to the Cardinal Athletic Boosters for a raffle in a previous year.

This year, Preston’s contribution acted as a motivator.

“When Pat committed a vehicle for a raffle, it kinda got our wheels turning,” Cunningham said, adding the dedication of those who fundraised in previous years will be missed, but expecting one group to carry that burden long-term is not fair.

“We know what a task it is to fundraise all the time,” Cunningham said.

He outlined some other possible avenues at the Jan. 25 Cardinal Schools Board of Education workshop when board members agreed to subsidize the athletic program for the 2023-2024 school year.

Ideas Cunningham presented included naming rights for district facilities, banners in gyms and fields, working with the Cardinal alumni group and Hall of Fame people, selling advertisements on the school website and working with corporations for financial support.

The drawing for the truck will be held at the home game Oct. 13 and there will be four drawings for $1,000 each month beginning in April, Cunningham said, adding the tickets of the winners of the monthly drawing will remain in contention for the truck, as well.

Farm Bureau Scholarships Available

The Geauga County Farm Bureau is offering scholarship opportunities to students pursuing post-high school education. The scholarship amount is determined by the number of acceptable qualifying applications.

Applicants or parents/legal guardians must be current Geauga County Farm Bureau members at the time of application and scholarship payout. They must be a part-time or full-time enrollee of an accredited two-year or four-year college, university or technical school.

First-year applicants must prove enrollment or admission status. Prior recipients may reapply.

Recipients of a scholarship or a representative must attend the Farm Bureau annual meeting held in September.

The fillable form is available online on the farm bureau’s website www.geaugafb.org or by emailing geauga@ofbf.org. No handwritten forms will be accepted. Applications must be submitted by March 31.

For more information, call 440-426-2195.

ANN WISHART/KMG

More than a dozen Cardinal Schools athletes visited the Preston Ford dealership Jan. 23 to witness Pat Preston’s donation of a red Ford F-150 pickup truck to the school district to be raffled off to help fund the athletic program next year. Tickets are selling for $20 each at the schools and at games. Also pictured are Pat Preston, far right, and Neal Shirk, service director, left.

Faith Matters

Discovering Love at the Source

Deep down, we are all looking for love. It is no coincidence that the Bible tells us that “God is love.” Our heavenly Father is the ultimate Source of love and created each of us to know His love. Yet, love that is reciprocated, by definition, must be combined with the freedom to choose. Authentic faith is actually a response to God’s initiative of love. “We love, because He first loved us.”

God’s love is not something to be known simply as a rational piece of information. It is personal and touches the heart strings of our inmost being. Yet, the “romance” can only begin in earnest when we respond to the One who loves us. Love that is only a one way street never really catches fire.

He was not an authentic messenger from God. However, Jesus used this picture of her love for Himself as evidence that she, in fact, understood His mission of love, whereas Simon totally missed it.

When the scoundrel Zacchaeus climbed up a tree to get a good look at Jesus, He discovered that Jesus already knew him and was ready to engage him as a loving Friend. The tax collector who cheated and robbed others to get rich, was subsequently transformed by the love of Jesus who accepted and forgave him.

By Roger Kruse

If your faith is primarily rooted in the fear of God’s judgment, you have missed the heart of the Gospel. “God so loved the world (that’s you and me!) that He gave His one and only Son…” The God who created you in love, also seeks to rescue you from your spiritual waywardness through love. He desires to draw you close through the ultimate gift of His Son’s cruel death on a Cross and victorious resurrection from the dead.

You can never earn God’s love. It flows from His very essence. We don’t deserve such love, yet He gladly pours it out from the deep reservoir within Himself.

Have you experienced the love God has for you?

When we examine the life and ministry of Jesus, we see love in action. Our Lord was always trying to break down the barriers that blockaded His love. When He was eating at the house of Simon the Pharisee, a woman who had lived a sinful life, wet his feet with her tears, wiped them with her hair, kissed them and poured perfume over them. Simon determined that Jesus’ failure to distance Himself from such a woman was proof that

When the blind beggar, Bartemaeus, called out in a loud voice for Jesus to have mercy on him, the people nearby, told him to be quiet. They viewed the noisy beggar as merely a nuisance. However, Jesus recognized the sound of a man desperate for His loving touch. Jesus stopped in His tracks and welcomed Bartemaeus to Himself. He was ready and willing to show just how much He loved Bartemaeus. In a miraculous moment, Bartemaeus received his sight and began to follow the Savior whose love had heard and responded to his cry.

Where and how would Jesus meet you if He were going to welcome you as His loving Friend? Most often, He meets us at the point of our need. Your sense of neediness is meant to become a stepping stone to the God who loves you. Instead of barricading yourself from the Savior, simply tell Him that you need and want His loving touch.

That step of faith will tap into the love that exceeds every other love, and will never let you go.

Roger Kruse has been touched and transformed by the love of Jesus. Yet, He is still trying “to grasp how wide and long and high and deep is the love of Christ, and to know this love that surpasses knowledge.”

School Board Drops Curtain on Musical: ‘Not Family-Friendly’

By ann WishaRt ann@KaRlovecmedia com

After weeks of rehearsing and set-building, the curtain came down on Cardinal Schools’ spring production before audience members could even get their hands on a playbill.

On Jan. 25, following a lengthy executive session, Cardinal Schools Board of Education told musical director Vanessa Allen the drama department’s show, “The 25th Annual Putnam County Spelling Bee,” would not go on.

“We received a complaint from a resident on Jan. 11,” board President Linda Smallwood said Jan. 27, adding several other families registered concerns about the production.

Obtained through a public records request, the complain read: “I have heard some rumblings about the content of this year’s musical. I read the script and did find it very troubling for a school performance (sexual and religious references). I also understand that the performance for the middle school will not happen due to the content. Also, hearsay from a student in the show is that the musical staff is trying to see how far they can go with it now and in the future. I would appreciate you looking into this and letting us know your thoughts. Thank you in advance.”

The musical comedy is based on a book by Rachel Sheinkin, with music and lyrics by William Finn. It started off-Broadway in 2005 and has been widely seen in a variety of venues, including middle and high schools, since its inception, according to the All Musicals website.

Both Kenston and West Geauga high

schools performed the musical in 2020 and 2019, respectively.

The Cardinal Schools Theater website announced the production for March 10-12 and noted: “Winner of the Tony and the Drama Desk Awards for Best Book, The 25th Annual Putnam County Spelling Bee has charmed audiences across the country with its effortless wit and humor. An eclectic group of six mid-pubescents vie for the spelling championship of a lifetime.”

The drama department chose the musical in October and began rehearsals and stage creation when school resumed after the Christmas break.

Musical Deemed ‘Not Family-Friendly’

On Jan. 12, after a discussion with district Superintendent Jack Cunningham, Smallwood said Allen was asked if the PG-13 musical was appropriate.

Allen gave board members copies of the script for their review. Smallwood said the director was invited to the Jan. 25 meeting, where four members of the board agreed to cancel the show.

No vote was taken and one board member, whom Smallwood did not name, believed pulling the plug on the production was a bad idea, she said, adding Allen did not come to the meeting.

In a phone interview Jan. 27, Allen’s husband, Brad Allen, volunteer production assistant, said she presented arguments to the board at the first meeting earlier in the month, but was not aware she was invited to attend the executive session.

Cunningham Defends BOE’s Cancelation

Cardinal Schools Superintendent Jack Cunningham issued the following press release Jan. 30 regarding the board of education’s decision to cancel the high school’s spring musical:

“(Cardinal Schools) has decided that its spring musical production will not be “The 25th Annual Putnam County Spelling Bee.” Its dialogue and song lyrics contain vulgarity and are therefore not suitable for our preteen and teenage students in an educational setting.

“This reflects the district’s longstanding commitment, and Board Policy 5722 clearly expresses this commitment. Regrettably, this production was not submitted to the board of education or district administration for approval. The district will be sure to complete its review process for future productions well in advance.

“The district expects that its student productions constitute a learning experience, which contributes to the educational program, and material that is not suitable for students of all ages does not meet this standard. The district plans to have a spring musical production that is appropriate for all of our students.

“As is spelled out in more detail in Board Policy 2240, the district believes that the consideration of controversial issues has a legitimate place in the instructional program of our schools. However, the district wants its student productions to be something that community members of all ages may enjoy without adult supervision.

“In all aspects of its operations, the district vigorously enforces its prohibition against discriminatory harassment based on race, color, national origin, sex (including sexual orientation and gender identity), disability, age, religion, ancestry, or genetic information. Anyone suggesting otherwise is simply mistaken.”

“The board had issues with the song (“My Unfortunate Erection”), but Vanessa was planning on doing the alternate song (“My Unfortunate Distraction”),” Brad said.

Other issues may have included profane language, a scene where Jesus takes the stage to assure the students He loves them no matter what happens, and one of the competitors having two male parents, he added.

“The board felt the show is not family-friendly,” said Brad, adding the district never has had a formal approval process, but the administration is informed which production is in the works.

Smallwood said Cunningham does not recall approving the musical and the school board traditionally is not involved.

“The board doesn’t approve the play in the first place,” Smallwood said.

However, seventh- and eighth-grade students need permission slips signed by parents in order to see “Spelling Bee” and the board determined it is inappropriate for viewing by younger students.

“Our school musical should be appropriate for all students to see,” said Smallwood, pointing to “Spelling Bee’s” PG-13 rating. “We want kids to be able to see it.”

Mandi Matchinga, Cardinal’s volunteer assistant director for “Spelling Bee,” told school board members her confusion over their decision is an understatement.

“I’ve been racking my brain to figure out what the problem is. Why now? Why this show? I need some clarification,” she said in a letter to the board. “When asked what exactly is inappropriate about the show, the only answer we get is that it is not family-friendly. That is a very subjective term. Without expressing specific concerns and guidelines, the production team has no way to choose future shows so that we don’t end up in this exact situation. What does ‘family-friendly’ mean?”

Cunningham said Jan. 30 the Cardinal administration and board were most concerned with the vulgarity and bad language in some of the scenes, and were not confident they would be excluded.

“We are not trying to sabotage anything,” he said. “The rating was a big deal for the board.”

Other school boards have faced this same dilemma in the past.

In April 2019, middle school students in Hyattsville, Md., had been practicing “Spelling Bee” for a couple of months when the board sent a letter canceling it for similar reasons.

Howard Sherman, writing on the Independent Publisher website, reported no one was willing to specify the reasons for the cancellation, leading to protests by staff, students and parents.

Sherman wrote, “A letter from Principal Thornton Boone to the school community has announced that ‘Spelling Bee’ will go on, however, it is delayed by two weeks to make up for lost rehearsal time and with one less performance than originally scheduled. The students participating in the show will be required to have signed permission slips from their parents and students at the area elementary schools will not be invited to performances, which will be noted as being rated PG-13.”

Parents Claim Censorship

In an email to the Cardinal community Jan. 27, Matchinga said the teachers’ union president told staff members they could risk their jobs if they try to fight this.

“We have been advised not to speak at the board meeting,” she wrote. “This also means we may no longer rehearse/build for this show. The parents, students and community members have to be the ones to fight (starting with emails like we are doing) and show up at the board meeting on Feb. 8. In order to speak at the board meeting during the public comments portion, you must be on the board agenda ahead of time.”

Matchinga offered to assist anyone wanting to address the board.

Brad said he met with the parents of the nine cast members and 12 stage crew members on Jan. 26. Two of the parents emailed the following statements:

“Hi, my name is Nicole Clinger. I am the mother of two Cardinal theater program children.

“We are deeply disappointed by the recent decision made by the Cardinal school board

See Cardinal • Page 7

Cunningham

Thomas said she saw the production and thought it was very funny.

“Two board members didn’t want to ditch the show. We want to see this show,” she said. “They can make some modifications to the lyrics.”

Lyrics aside, Anderson also said the character biographies are offensive and stereotypical, asserting the term “home-schooled” is used in a derogatory manner.

The union representative countered that most characters in musicals, such as those in “Cinderella,” are stereotypes.

“We make them that way,” the union representative said.

Anderson noted actors are encouraged to ad-lib comments regarding politics and religion, and she pressed for the production of a different musical.

“I got the script with a few changes you made. I don’t know why you can’t do something else,” she said.

Timing, Casting Challenge Replacement

Substituting a less contentious musical at a later date was discussed. In fact, Cunningham opened the meeting by saying the board

Cardinal

from page 6

to cancel ‘The 25th Annual Putnam County Spelling Bee’ under the vague and misguided pretense that it is not ‘family-friendly.’ This kind of censorship is not only detrimental to the education and personal growth of our students, but it also sends a harmful message to our community that discrimination and prejudice are acceptable.

“Artistic expression is a fundamental right, and the censorship of this play is a violation of that right. It is important for our students to have access to diverse perspectives and experiences and this play offered just that.

“We call on the school board to reconsider their decision and to work towards creating a more inclusive and accepting environment for all students. We also call on the community to support the rights of our students to express themselves through art and to stand up against censorship and discrimination in all forms.”

Time, Energy Invested, Now What?

Matchinga, also the mother of two participants, resigned from her teaching position

still wants a musical this spring.

However, concerns exist over timing.

“Spelling Bee” was set to be performed in March, and receiving permission to produce a new musical could take weeks — followed by more weeks of practice, the union representative said.

The board agreed to postpone an alternate production until April or May, but appeared to be split on how “Spelling Bee” should proceed.

Allen noted she has only two male actors available and claimed there are not a lot of other high school students with the talent and desire to sing on stage.

“We have issues with numbers. Everybody is having trouble with numbers,” she said. “We are very limited in what we can do. We need kids who can do the parts. This was the only one that was feasible.”

However, another issue brought up with “Spelling Bee” is a requirement that younger students would need permission slips to attend the PG-13 musical.

Anderson said previous shows, such as “The Wizard of Oz,” were G-rated for general audiences, which meant students of any age could attend without permission slips.

“Music is a critical thing in Middlefield. I don’t want it to get exclusive,” she said. “We can’t even let our sixth-graders go see (‘Spelling Bee’).”

with the district last May, which she said gave her more freedom to speak up without fear of losing her job.

“I may lose my position as an assistant director, but if the students get their show back, it is well worth it,” she told the board in her letter. “I am not sure if you are aware, but Cardinal students have put hours and hours of work into this production. We hit the ground running when we came back from winter break. Cast members have invested hours of their time in rehearsals, characterization lessons, and group and individual voice lessons. The crew has spent equal time creating and building set pieces, scenery and props. The decision to shut this production down is heartbreaking.

“I’ve heard it suggested that we do a different show,” she continued. “I am not sure if those suggesting that realize that it can take up to six weeks to obtain license approval for a musical. You are not guaranteed a license if you apply. If we did get approval, we could begin rehearsing around March 15. We need 10 weeks to prepare for the show. That gives us a performance date of May 19.”

Matchinga said with the show’s cancelation, senior students will have had only one traditional musical experience in their high school career.

“Their freshman show was canceled the

No Precedent for Selecting Productions

All the debate during the Feb. 1 meeting led to discourse about how things got to this point in the first place.

Cunningham told Allen at the meeting the process of choosing a musical was handled poorly.

“You should have brought it to Mike (Hall) or the board or me, rather than finding out along the way,” he said.

As concern over the musical began building within the last few weeks, it appeared the district had no formal approval policy for choosing production material.

Allen noted no precedent has been set.

Thomas, who has experience with high school productions, said in a phone conversation Feb. 2 she supports the production of “Spelling Bee” and some alterations of the script and song lyrics to bring the rating closer to PG.

She also said the vast majority of musicals have at least one sexually suggestive scene. “Theater is meant to be a little bit edgy,” she said.

Ultimately, during the Feb. 1 meeting, Thomas urged the administration and all board members to work together for a solution.

Cunningham said his goal is to have a

day before opening due to COVID. Their sophomore show had to be live-streamed, which is a different experience,” she said.

“They had their first ‘normal’ theater experience in their junior year. Canceling their senior show will crush them.”

District Treasurer Seth Cales said the

musical and urged Allen to attend the Feb. 8 school board meeting.

“I’m trying to make sure we are moving forward and the kids have something to perform,” he said.

‘Spelling Bee’ Threat Deemed Miscommunication

The morning of Feb. 2, Cunningham requested no additional names be mentioned in the media regarding the “The 25th Annual Putnam County Spelling Bee” controversy due to perceived threats received against a teacher. He reported to law enforcement a threatening phone call was made to the school the morning of Feb. 2.

Middlefield Village Police Chief Joe Tucholski said Thursday afternoon the phone call came into the school district at about 11 a.m. from a person who gave the office his name.

By the afternoon, police had checked with the alleged caller, who was at work and denied making the call, the chief said.

Further investigation determined no threats were made over the phone, he said.

“There was no actual threat. There was a miscommunication between the office staff and the teacher,” Tucholski said. “Someone did call asking about (a former teacher), but there were no threats or derogatory statements.”

rights to “Spelling Bee” cost $1,745 and he is not sure if a refund is likely.

Allen was scheduled to meet with Cunningham this week to go over alternative musicals, Smallwood said, adding the production date would be moved to the end of April or early May.

East Geauga Kiwanis Honors Students

Basketball from page 1

Johnson closed out the first quarter for Crestwood to momentarily stop the bleeding.

But with Gall shutting down the inside attempts to score, and his teammates scoring just enough to keep the lead, which reached double digits at halftime, Cardinal withstood a late fourth-period rally that cut their lead to 51-47 with just three minutes to play.

Then Gall again took over the boards, and teammate Ethan Detweiler hit some clutch free throws to seal the verdict.

“We just lost a double-overtime game a couple nights ago to Kirtland,” Gall said. “That was a really tough loss to take. We played very hard and should really have won that game, but we made a couple big mistakes at the wrong times.

“Tonight we played really hard again, which we need to do in every game. We play the same way all the time: as hard as we can. It’s just a matter of taking it one game at a time instead of looking too far ahead, but we play in a tough conference.”

Gall recorded 15 points to go with 17 rebounds, including six offensive. Three ended in put-back baskets, and as the Red Devils attacked to get back in the game, Gall seemed to be in the way most of the night as well. He blocked four shots, and his presence altered the shot selections of several Crestwood athletes.

Cardinal’s Jake Bean scored six in a hurry in that early spurt on his way to a 14-point, nine-rebound evening, while Detweiler added 10 points, including a six-of-six effort from the charity stripe. Those hoops were of the clutch variety as well; two came with 45 ticks left in the third period to push the Cardinal lead back to 42-33, and another pair came with just under a minute left in the game as the Huskies (10-8, 7-2 in CVC) closed out strong.

“We didn’t play our best game tonight,” Cardinal Head Coach Jon Cummins said. “We had some issues with Kirtland because they really put pressure on you all night long. Crestwood did the same tonight after we got that big lead early. They made us start to

think a little too much about what we wanted to do. At halftime, a couple of the kids suggested we just try to pound the ball inside to Paul more often, and in the fourth period we finally were able to get it done. They gave us some different wrinkles to deal with, but we made adjustments as we needed to to get the win.”

Though it wasn’t pretty, Gall’s efficiency controlling the paint, Bean’s baskets and boards, and Detweiler’s late free-throw shooting prevented the Huskies from enduring another tough loss. A 39-18 edge on the boards shows how much control Cardinal had when they needed it, and a determined group of Red Devils made sure the Huskies knew they needed to take control.

SUBMITTED

East Geauga Kiwanis Club recently recognized Jordak Elementary School third-graders (l to r) Andrew, Benton, Syrus and Jesse for their outstanding performance in class in the second grading period. They each received a certificate and four literature books.

BILL FUGATE/KMG Cardinal’s Ethan Detweiler blocks this Dekota Johnson shot in the Huskies’ 57-48 win over Crestwood Red Devils.

PLAIN COUNTRY Viewpoints from the Amish Community

Ramblings from Windsor

By Ruth ByleR

Oh dear, it’s just Ruth again. So hello! (Maybe) Mom will write one of these days. Oh, hi Mom, yes I wrote what your eyes just read, but I did say maybe! :)

Sunday, Jan. 22: The weather outside is beautiful. Big white fluffy flakes and it’s piling on the trees, fence posts, etc. Looks very cheery.

Monday, Jan. 23: Heard Joni and Laura Bender have a lil Annamae. Grands are Uria and Nancy Bender, and Mel Weavers. Mom and Dad were to neighbor Ervin’s tonight. Sheila is staying with them while she recovers.

Tuesday, Jan. 24: Mom was giving Rach sewing lessons today. Think it went pretty good.

How can it be two years that David (Sheila Dans) passed away?

Wednesday, Jan. 25: Happy 23rd birthday to Ruthie Detweiler. But you are not getting paid to read this, so why didn’t you wait til you were on break. :)

On spur of the moment, my room got painted today. It looks extra nice. (Probably because it got done by the guy who hangs out a lot here on weekends :) We girls had cousin night at Marty Esther, so we sent Marty out the door.

Thursday, Jan. 26: We finally got Amanda’s results back from the doctor. She has been sick and tired for over a week now. And, it showed she is very low on vitamin D. I never would have guessed that would make such

a difference. I hope she feels better soon.

Friday, Jan. 27: Baby Mahala was welcomed by Allen, Arlene and Noah Ray Glick. Grands are Milo and Laura Glick, and Elmer Dans Rays.

The kids had their 100th day of school today. We made good use of the snow we had and had a sledding party.

Saturday, Jan. 28: Happy birthday to Bill Benders Dan. Aren’t you delighted I mentioned you? :)

Sunday, Jan. 29: We were to cousin Lori and Danni in evening. If laughter truly is the best medicine, I won’t be needing medicine in a long time. Cousin Cris and Dora were also there.

Monday, Jan. 30: Happy birthday to neighbor Marianne. (13th?) Everyday mom writes about something that happened that day. This was from today: “9:30 and all are in bed except Dad. Blessed peace! They were extra noisy tonight.”

But I can explain. I was baking chocolate chip cookies and I have five brothers. New Tip: 1. Bake cookies when all brothers are working, sleeping or not at home. Tip 2. Put cookies in container, and let brothers gobble them when they discover them the second they walk in. Tip 3. Repeat step 1 and 2.

Tuesday, Jan. 31: I was with Mom, grams, Aunt Dorothy and Sara to Marty Esther for “ladies day.” They tried to put some helpful sewing tips in my head. I think it might help.

Til next time, remember, don’t wait for the perfect moment, but take this moment and make it perfect.

Geauga Public Library

MIDDLEFIELD BRANCH

16167 East High St., Middlefield, 440-632-1961. Programs require registration unless otherwise noted. Visit www.geaugalibrary.net.

Book Group

Feb. 9, 5:30 p.m.

Discuss “A Piece of the World” by Christina Baker Kline. No registration required.

STEM Tinker Lab

Feb. 10, 11 a.m. to noon

Youth ages 2-5 with a caregiver may join for a STEM Tinker Lab that is all about shapes and colors with activities to create, play and learn.

Coffee Break with Sue

By susan yodeR middlefield toWnship

A friendly hello to all readers.

A crisp 14 degrees with the sun rising, looking to be a nice day.

We had our annual pig butchering on Monday with most of our family and sis Allen Ray, Barbie and family. We did 7 and 1/2 pigs this year. We got them dressed. It’s still a lot of work, but many hands make light work.

We had it planned for Friday, Jan. 27, then brother-in-law David L. Miller passed away, so we postponed it. David’s funeral was on Saturday. We rejoice that he is free from his worn earthly body and hope that he is safely “home.” He leaves behind his wife, Susan. One married daughter and son-inlaw, and three sons. The family’s address is 4805 T.R. 606, Fredericksburg, OH 44627.

David was diagnosed in June of 2022. Gradually growing weaker and was bedfast probably about a month. He had a type of brain tumor called a Glioblastoma.

Our thoughts go to the family of Seth Miller, down in Garrettsville, who passed away recently at the age of 43 from cancer, leaving his wife, Lauri, and four children.

The Millers, my Dad’s family, had family night at John and Betty Weaver’s when Uncle Bill became quite ill and an ambulance was called. He was very dizzy and vomited. Hopefully it’s only the flu. They took him in to get checked out. Bill is 76. He’s fairly healthy. He does deal with prostate cancer. Later, we found out he was diagnosed with vertigo and sent home.

Eli Hostetler is staying at his daughter, the Walter and Cindy Gingerich home, after suffering a stroke. He is doing therapy in hopes to become more able-bodied.

Walters are also dealing with his brother, Paul, being bedridden. A special one who is lovingly cared for by his mom, Clara, and siblings. The live there by Walters.

‘Til next time, may we all strive to have love to share, health to spare and friends that care.

E. Geauga Kiwanis Gives the Gift of Reading

Letters to the Editor

Inappropriate Production

I read the script to “The 25th Annual Putnam County Spelling Bee.” Mandi Matchinga is reportedly confused about what exactly is inappropriate about the show. $1700 worth of taxpayers’ money could have gone to a play with a story line, character development and something to think about.

Instead, this play appears to be a platform for showcasing, as evidenced from quotes from the play:

“Miss Logainne . . . is head of the GayStraight Alliance at her elementary school.”

“It will ruin your complexion all because of my unfortunate erection.”

“That’s so retarded.”

“We hate losers which is why we discipline. God hates losers because losers do not know how to win.”

SUBMITTED

The students were very appreciative of the gift.

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: Feb. 21, 7 p.m., Board of Trustees. All meetings held at the Town Hall, 16534 Mayfield Road.

Middlefield Village: Feb. 9, 5:30 p.m. – Recreation, 6 p.m. – Finance & Ordi-

nance, 6:30 p.m. – Safety, 7 p.m. – Village Council. All meetings are at the Municipal Center, 14860 N. State Ave.

Parkman Township: Feb. 21, 7 p.m., Board of Trustees. All meetings are held at the Community House, 16295 Main Market Road, unless otherwise noted.

Cardinal BOE: Feb. 8, 6:30 p.m., regular meeting; Feb. 22, 6:30 p.m., work session. All meetings held at BOE Office, 15982 E. High St., Middlefield, unless otherwise indicated.

“Jesus Christ, what about me?”

Carl Dad and Dan Dad, the gay parents of Schwarzy: “I’m so stressed by my stress, I just want to up and vomit.”

Jesus appears on the stage of this spelling bee: “Dear Jesus.” “Praise Jesus.” Commentary on Pope Benedict, and finally, to top the references and appearance of Jesus, a reference to our country: “I hope you still love me, America. America, I gave it my best try. But if you still don’t love me, America, I understand why. You hate losers. So do I. I’m a loser, so goodbye.”

Nice take on America, Mandi. Maybe Ms. Allen and Ms. Matchinga should search for a play that features Allah or Mohammed, but maybe not on taxpayers’ dime and maybe because the consequences would much harsher than just disappointed students.

Elizabeth Moll Hambden Township

Real Estate Transfers

Following is a list of area real estate transfers for the weeks ending Jan. 20 and Jan. 27, 2023, provided as a public service by the Geauga County Auditor’s Office. Transfers may involve the sale of land only.

HUNTSBURG TOWNSHIP

Thomas D. O’Connor, 15784 Mayfield Road, to James E. Mackenzie Jr., Cynthia M. Thompson Mackenzie, and Bryanna Taylor Mackenzie, $280,000. (11.70 acres)

Russell Benjamin Cooper Owens and

Theresa Marie Owens, 17516 Pioneer Road, to Gregory J. and Susan R. Mills, $475,000. (10.67 acres)

MIDDLEFIELD VILLAGE

Glen Valley Farms Ltd., Glen Valley Drive, to Knapp Road LLC, $350,000. (66.92 acres)

PARKMAN TOWNSHIP

Magda Lynn Mach, 17615 Old State Road, to Andrew J. and Jessica D. Cook, $491,000. (9.19 acres)

SWCD Holds Conservation Poster Contest

The National Association of Conservation Districts (NACD) has proclaimed April 30 through May 7 as Stewardship Week, marking the 68th year of the national event. In celebration, Geauga Soil and Water Conservation District is sponsoring a poster contest with the theme, “Watershed-One Water.”

The purpose of the contest is to encourage in youth a connection to the important benefit of protecting soil and water resources.

The contest is open to all students in grades K-12 from public, private or home schools.

The 2023 theme must be included. Posters must measure 14-by-22 inches and must be submitted to the Geauga SWCD office at 12611 Ravenwood Drive, suite 240, Chardon, on or before May 26.

The Geauga SWCD is offering a first and second place prize in each grade category: K-1, 2-3, 4-6, 7-9 and 10-12. The first place winners in each category will move on to the state competition and then national. For information and contest rules, contact Geauga SWCD at 440-834-1122 or www. geaugaswcd.com.

East Geauga Kiwanis recently gave a book to every first-grader at Jordak Elementary Schools to emphasize the importance of reading in their education.

AUTOS & PARTS

For Sale: 1998 Harley Softail Custom, low miles, built motor, not running, needs assembly, all parts included. $3,200. 440-313-1178.

FOR RENT

Chardon: Ranch Home, 3/bd, 1/bath, 2-1/2 car garage, newly renovated, walk to Square, $1400/m + Security and Background Check. 440-478-2408.

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

FOR SALE

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

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

ATI Cavalry 20 gauge over under shotgun, like new condition, $450. 440-321-8152

Ford 9N, not running $1,000. 1974 Sportster Basketcase $1,500. Team bio-harness, lightly used $1,500. All OBO. Text 440-591-9554.

HELP WANTED

Mom with 9 year-old looking for teenager or adult to help with babysitting, cooking, cleaning and homework. Pay negotiable. 801-463-1668.

Veterinary Assistant Position available at West Geauga Veterinary Hospital. 440-729-9584. Full or part-time experience helpful, but not required.

PETS & ANIMALS

For Sale: 9-week old mini-poodle males. Tucker: black w/brown spots. Bandit: white w/brown mask. Samson: all white. Shots UTD, house training stated. $900/each. 440-635-6607.

Jack Russell Puppies: born Nov 8th, 1 male, 2 female, $250/OBO. 440-834-8579.

Lilly: 9-10yo lap cat, spayed, vaxxed, feleuk/FIV negative. She loves to cuddle! But she doesn’t like other cats. Rebecca 440-321-2485.

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

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

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

WANTED TO BUY

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.

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.

karlovec group

8389 Mayfield Road, B-5 Chesterland, OH 44026 Fax: 440-729-8240

To advertise in the Classifieds, contact the advertising department at 440-729-7667 ext. 500 or email your ad directly to ads@karlovecmedia.com

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