Middlefield Post 3-23-22

POST Wednesday, March 23, 2022 • Vol. 14 No. 22 • FREE

PreSort Std U.S. Postage PAID Middlefield, OH 44062 Permit No. 77

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Community News from Middlefield, Parkman, Huntsburg and Surrounding Areas

OR CURRENT RESIDENT

Middlef ield Auction for Cardinal Intermediate School Scheduled for April 19

By Ann Wishart ann@karlovecmedia.com

Cardinal Schools Board of Education voted unanimously March 9 to put the former Cardinal Intermediate School property up for public auction at 10 a.m. April 19.

The resolution said the property, totaling about 1.75 acres in three parcels, is no longer needed for school purposes.

The auction will be held in the board of education central office next door to the CIS building.

The sale of the property will not be final until the board votes to accept the bid at a special meeting to be held in May or June, according to a press release dated March 10.

The board must also vote to accept a purchase agreement.

“The board reserves the right to reject the highest bid received at the public auction, reject any and all bids submitted at the public auction and waive any informalities related to the public auction,” the release said. “In the event the board does not accept a bid from the auction,

ANN WISHART/KMG

Cardinal Intermediate School in Middlefield Village will be auctioned off in April following action taken by the Cardinal Schools Board of Education March 9.

the board may proceed with a private sale.”

After board members voted for the auction, they passed a resolu-

Cardinal BOE Seeking New Superintendent

By Ann Wishart ann@karlovecmedia.com

Following a lengthy executive session March 9, including two representatives from the Western Reserve Educational Service Center, the Cardinal Schools Board of Education voted unanimously to contract with the center to search for a new superintendent.

Board President Linda Smallwood said they hope to have qualified candidates within four or five months.

Superintendent Bill Kermavner, who was not invited into the executive session, submitted his letter of resignation Jan. 31, to be effective July 31, at the end of his three-year contract.

At the board meeting Jan. 26,

board members Kristen Klepper, Barb Rayburn and Smallwood voted in favor of abridging his hiring authority, with all hiring decisions requiring the approval of the board. Members Wendy Anderson and Katie Thomas voted against the motion.

Kermavner said in an interview Feb. 1 he sought legal advice and decided within a few days after that vote to submit his resignation.

During the Feb. 9 BOE meeting, when the same three members voted to accept his resignation, a crowd of district employees and residents protested in support of Kermavner, asking to be told why he decided to resign.

The board and superintendent would not discuss the reasons, but See Search • Page 9

tion to hire the architectural firm GPD Group of Akron to design a new bus garage, a parking lot for the garage and porticoes for the

high school and the elementary school.

At a previous meeting, the See Auction • Page 9

Business Improvement Program Proposed

By Ann Wishart ann@karlovecmedia.com

Middlefield Village businesses needing a helping hand to upgrade their facades may be interested in the new Business Improvement Program discussed at the village council meeting March. 10.

Mayor Ben Garlich said there is a need for a plan, which is being developed by village Economic Development Director Leslie McCoy and Zoning Inspector John Boksansky.

McCoy said there are funds in the budget for a business program similar to the Neat Streets program for the village residential areas.

In addition, Boksansky is qualified to manage the program, she said.

See Program • Page 8

ANN WISHART/KMG

Justin Cutler, operations manager for Major Waste Disposal Services of Leroy Township met with Middlefield Village Council March 9.

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Wednesday, March 23, 2022

A Glimpse of Yesteryear

Jeffrey B. Karlovec, Publisher John D. Karlovec, Editor Gayle Mantush, Sales Representative Cassandra C. Shofar, News Editor Barb Fontanelle, Sales Representative Jamie A. Ward, Sports Editor Clinton Sestak, Sales Representative Karen S. Kaplan, Graphic Design Pamela J. Molnar, Production Supervisor

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Middlef ield Community News from Middlefield, Parkman, Huntsburg and Surrounding Areas

POST

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 dairies 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 & GRILL, 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 that more people had cars and roads were being improved with pavement. I always have wondered if it had continued in business if we would be a “suburb” of Cleveland today.

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Wednesday, March 23, 2022

Faith Matters When Darkness Turns to Dawn

Sleep can become an issue as we get a bit you pursue thoughts and activities that are older. I remember my Mom would get frus- contrary to God’s will, you invite darkness. trated when she couldn’t sleep and ended up There is always a price to pay for our sin. reading a book in the wee hours of the early Don’t be surprised when the consequences morning. of your actions come back to kick you from Sometimes I wake up at 4 or 4:30 a.m. behind. When you walk in the shadows of a and don’t go back to sleep. As the morning lifestyle that fails to honor and obey the Lord, unfolds, I quietly go about my daily routines you will often stumble and fall. The God who so as not to waken anyone else. loves you and desires what is best I am always blessed when the for you will allow you to learn a first light of the morning dawn difficult but important lesson. begins to appear in the Eastern Don’t be stubborn and unteachsky. Darkness slowly but surely able. Step out of darkness and disappears and the outside surinto His light. roundings become illuminated God gives us instructions so with rays of light. In anticipation we can enjoy life at its best. Jesus of the dawn to come, the birds said, “I have come that they may begin to sing their cheerful mel- By Roger Kruse have life in its fullest measure.” odies, greeting a new day.

Our enemy, the devil, tempts us with things Somehow we feel more secure in the that look good, but prove to be bad news. No light. Darkness can make us uneasy, if not wonder we are told in the Bible that “Satan afraid. It is no coincidence that many crimes disguises himself as an angel of light.” Our are perpetuated in the hours of darkness. I spiritual enemy is a deceiver, a liar and a ripalways told my kids who traveled into Cleveoff artist. If you take the bait, you will find land for a concert late at night, to be careful. yourself caught in Satan’s trap.

I said, “Usually, good things don’t happen at Instead of flirting with the darkness, de1 a.m.” Was I just a worrying parent? Maybe. termine to walk squarely into God’s light. In But even the Bible says, “Men loved darkness instead of light because their deeds His light you will not only see the pitfalls of those paths that will lead you astray, you will were evil.”

How much better and wiser to step into also see yourself. The illumination of God’s the light of God’s will and blessing. Jesus Spirit working in us gives us a true and acgrabs our attention by calling Himself the curate look at who we are on the inside. The “Light of the world.” He then goes on to say, Bible is like a mirror, reflecting and revealing “The one who follows Me will not walk in the real you. Pick it up this week, start reading the Gospel of John and ask God to shine darkness, but will have the light of life.”

Jesus wants to illumine our lives with His His light upon you. You can be sure; the Lord Light shining from within us. When we follow will answer that prayer.

Each of us needs all the light we can get.

His teaching, His Word becomes “a lamp to our feet and a light for our path.” Proverbs When you begin to follow Jesus, the light of 4:18 tells us that the path of those who do dawn begins to shine brightly on your life. the right thing in God’s eyes is like the light The rays of His love will surely warm your of the morning dawn, that shines brighter heart. and brighter till it is full day.”

Roger Kruse loves the light of God working Do you realize that you yourself determine the degree of darkness coming into both in and through him. Today, is a new day your life, as well as the amount of light? When to live as a child of the light.

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Wednesday, March 23, 2022

Town Crier Veterans Benefits Program

March 23, 6 p.m.

Geauga County Veteran Services will be holding a program addressing benefits for spouses and family of veterans at the Atwood-Mauck American Legion Post 459, 14052 Goodwin Ave., Burton. The free event is open to all veterans and their spouses.

Light refreshments will be served.

GCRTA to Meet

Fridays, 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 alcoholism, addiction, depression, so-dependency or any other habit that lessens the quality of life.

The group offers support, encouragement, fellowship and discipleship. Learn more at horizons4you.com/life-recovery.

April 5, 11:15 a.m.

The Geauga County Retired Teachers Association will meet at the St. Mary Banquet Center, 401 North St., Chardon. Gathering time will be followed by the business meeting at 11:30 a.m. and a roast pork loin lunch at noon.

ORTA Executive Director Robin Rayfield will present a program concerning current STRS money management and audit results.

A 50/50 raffle and free lunch raffle will follow.

For reservations, send a check for $19 made out to GCRTA to Judy Miller, 17130 Kinsman Road, Middlefield, OH 44062 to arrive no later than March 26.

Bring paper products or canned goods for Geauga County Job and Family Services.

All retired school employees are welcome no matter where they worked or live. For membership information, call 440 286-4992.

GEL Breakfast

GOP Lincoln Day Dinner

Life Recovery 12 Step Meeting

April 1, 7:30-9 a.m.

The Manufacturing Advocacy and Growth Network (MAGNET) will discuss “Automation in Manufacturing” at the next Geauga Economic Leadership (G.E.L.) breakfast at Kent State University - Geauga, 14111 Claridon Troy Road, Burton. Breakfast and networking begin at 7:30 a.m. Free and open to the public. Registration is appreciated.

For information or to register, call 440564-1060 or email info@geaugagrowth.com.

Night at the Races

April 2, 6-10:30 p.m.

Mission 440, a nonprofit organization that provides financial relief and community engagement for families of tragic events in Geauga County, is hosting a Night at the Races for Jacob’s Journey at Serenity Winery Event Venue, 16995 Chardon-Windsor Road in Huntsburg Township.

Support Jacob Miller with a night filled with friends, food, drinks, betting, raffles, basket auction and horse racing.

For information and to purchase tickets, visit mission440.org.

Geauga Skywatchers

April 4, 6:30-7:30 p.m.

Join Skywatchers for “50th Anniversary of the Centaur Upper Stage,” a virtual overview of the Centaur upper stage rocket developed, manage, and launched by northeast Ohio’s Glenn Research Center for 35 years.

Registration is required; visit www.GeaugaLibrary.libcal.

April 9 All Republicans are welcome to attend Geauga County GOP’s 2022 Lincoln Day dinner at The Tanglewood Club, 8745 Tanglewood Trail in Bainbridge Township. Keynote speaker will be Ohio Attorney General Dave Yost.

The doors will open at 5:30 p.m. with a VIP reception followed by a plated dinner at 7 p.m.

Reservations only - no walk-ins; RSVP to info@geaugagop.com by April 2.

For more information, including sponsorship and advertising opportunities, visit www.GeaugaGOP.com.

Summer Youth Aviation Camp

The Experimental Aviation Association Chapter 5 is hosting its annual weeklong day camp for middle school students going into grades six through 10 who are interested in flying.

Summer Youth Aviation Camp will take place June 6 -10 for new campers at the Geauga County Airport in Hangar 3 in Middlefield from 9 a.m. to 3:45 p.m. After the camp, there will be an opportunity for campers to take a Young Eagle flight on June 11.

Space is limited to 18 students. Registration forms and $150 fee are due by April 28.

Scholarships are available.

For more information, contact Sherry Niederkorn at 440-477-1198 or sherry.niederkorn23@gmail.com to obtain an application packet. Corporate sponsorships are available.

Middlefield Post

Wednesday, March 23, 2022

A Message from Middlefield Village Mayor Ben Garlich…

Hello Residents, As I was turning my clocks up an hour, I was watching the snow come down, knowing I would rather be planning to mow my lawn than remove snow from my drive the next morning. Not the weather I was hoping for as we go into daylight savings time.

This winter has taken a toll on us as well as our personal property. I see many parking lots in need of repair, some of our streets also have been affected by the freezing and thawing. The service team has done a great job this year keeping roads clear and patching the worst of the holes that developed over the winter.

We look forward to spring Garlich and state routes, East and West High, being repaved as well as our streets Button and Pierce. We are also planning on paving the parking areas on the east side of the splash park, the parking area north of the basketball courts and the expanded parking on the south side of Almeda Drive.

This summer, we will see projects completed, the new ODOT garage on Tare Creek as well as the new metal factory on East High.

Two projects that were scheduled but delayed are now going to proceed. The new carwash on South Springdale as well as the demolition of the old McDonald’s and construction of

the new McDonald’s. Dirt has already started moving on the car wash facility and in April we should see progress on the McDonald’s facility.

Thanks to all our well-managed businesses, our quality residents, responsible management by village administration and dedicated employees, the village is financially very solid. Due to this success, our Economic Development Committee will be focused on how to assist our businesses and residents to improve our quality of life. Ideas to include partnering to improve facilities as well as assisting residents in defraying the devastating impact of our out-of-control inflation. These ideas are still in the planning stages, but we will keep you updated as they develop.

I always include in my tag line “exercise your right to vote.” I urge all of you to not be apathetic, expend the energy to learn about every candidate on the ballot, and make sure your voice is heard by casting your vote.

I love and take pride in this country. I was fortunate enough to be born in the best country in the world and I resent those who try to disparage or dismantle its greatness. Please pray for our country and our world.

Be informed, be involved, exercise your right to vote, shop Middlefield.

PUBLIC NOTICE

Village of Middlefield

The Village of Middlefield passed the following legislation during the March 10 council meeting: • Resolution 22-06 authorizing the transfer of funds and declaring an emergency.

• Ordinance 22-114 accepting the bid of Major Waste Disposal Services, Inc. as the lowest and best bid for residential and municipal waste hauling, disposal and recycling services for the village, and directing the village administrator to finalize and enter services, and declaring an emergency.

• Ordinance 22-116 to make permanent appropriations for current expenses and other expenditures of the Village of Middlefield during the fiscal year ending Dec. 31, 2022, and declaring an emergency.

The complete text of these resolutions and ordinances may be viewed or obtained at the fiscal officer’s office, 14860 N. State Ave., Middlefield, during regular business hours.

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Wednesday, March 23, 2022

SIFT Gives Internet Users Fact-finding Tool

By Ann Wishart ann@karlovecmedia.com

With the tsunami of social media and cell phones, the old adage, “You can’t believe everything you read” takes on a whole new dimension.

The Internet has provided a superhighway of information, misinformation and disinformation so confusing that users of social media don’t know where to turn for reliable facts on thousands of topics.

Bonnie Shaker, assistant professor of English and media studies at Kent State University – Geauga, offered advice to those who want to safely and intelligently navigate the Internet during her March 4 presentation “Media Literacy: New Approaches for a New Age.” During her virtual Geauga Growth Partnership presentation, Shaker traced the media’s transition away from newspapers, radio and television to the creation of the World Wide Web. In the last five years, the growth in its use has become supercharged.

“We’ve had a sea of change in how media is delivered,” she said. “Today, everything is digitized.”

And all of it can be accessed on a tablet, laptop or cell phone.

“This revolution has shifted massive amounts of information,” Shaker said, adding it may spell the end of print media. “Newspapers, as we know them, may not be around much longer.”

Articles found on the Internet need to be fact-checked and she recommended readers approach them with healthy skepticism and awareness.

People tend to read vertically — top to bottom, Shaker said. In so doing, they may absorb all the proffered data or ideas without

Program from page 1

Garlich said some businesses could use a facelift and Boksansky said the village has been giving rebates for several years to residential property owners who improve their properties through the Neat Streets program.

The BIP could operate similarly, McCoy said.

“The improvements have to be substantial to be worth it,” Garlich said.

When he was involved in a BIP for two years in the Cleveland area, the program progressed in sections with signage improvements coming first, Boksansky said.

Councilman Sam Morrow suggested more extensive projects.

“They could improve their parking lots.

You can lose your car in some of these potholes,” Morrow said.

Garlich supported the concept, with reservations.

“We can’t be parking lot management for every business. There’s a lot to (BIP),” he said.

McCoy said she hopes to have the BIP available to the commercial and industrial sectors by early summer.

In other business, council voted to contract with Major Waste Disposal Services of Leroy Township for residential trash and re-

knowing the sources being quoted.

A Stanford University think tank developed a process called SIFT to help readers determine if they can trust the writer, the publication and the information in an article.

SIFT stands for Stop, Investigate the sources, Find better coverage and Trace claims, quotes and media to the original context.

Following the process entails resource checking in advance of consuming items found on social media or the Internet.

“They coined the phrase ‘lateral reading’ to help people vet the source types before they dive into reading long articles,” she said, urging readers to investigate fully. “Open tabs and ask who the source is. The source has to earn our trust.”

Lateral reading and ferreting out reliable sources is a skill that can be learned by anyone who wants to avoid the pitfalls of inaccurate data, quotes taken out of context and conspiracy theories, she said.

“Always ask: Who is behind the information?” Shaker said, adding official looking logos can be created and ‘.org’ is an open domain for anyone.”

On the web, anything goes. As any professional fact-checker knows, the web is treacherous territory,” she said.

She lamented the loss of metropolitan newspapers that clearly differentiate news and features from editorials, advertisements and opinions and, since most young people are getting their news from Internet sites, Shaker said they need to learn how to investigate their sources.

She said she and KSU professor Dirk Remley are creating a media literacy kit for teachers to help students learn how to vet information on the Internet. cycle materials service.

Justin Cutler, operations manager, told council Major Waste Disposal is a family-owned-and-operated business in its second generation and the contract with Middlefield Village will be one of its first big contracts.

“We do quite a bit of commercial work,” he said, including customers from Parkman Township to East Cleveland to Conneaut.

Major’s typical trash container is green with a yellow lid. Recyclable materials can be comingled in separate bins and the company will arrange to pick up large items, such as appliances or carpeting for an additional charge, according to its website.

The small company buys and reconditions used vehicles, Cutler said.

“You’ll probably see me out there picking up trash now and then,” he said.

His drivers will work with current contractor Rumpke Waste and Recycling Inc., based in Columbus, to make sure all village customers receive the Major trash containers as soon as Rumke collects their containers at the end of the village contract, Cutler said.

“We don’t want anyone to go without a garbage can,” he said.

McCoy said Major submitted the lowest and best bid for the contract and village residents will receive pertinent information on collection schedules in the mail.

Middlefield Post

Wednesday, March 23, 2022

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

nal sources and folk remedies. Presented by Geauga Park District.

Mobile Memory Lab Orientation

March 23, 5-8 p.m.

Teens in grades 6-12 will enjoy a screening of the 2012 film starring Jennifer Lawrence and Josh Hutcherson, as well as themed food and crafts.

April 2, 2-3 p.m.

The Mobile Memory Lab is comprised of scanners, reel-to-reel film converter, vinyl record recorder, microphones, and software to convert analog materials to digital files.

Attendance is mandatory before booking appointments with the Mobile Memory Lab.

Spring Wildflower Folklore

Census Lock-in

Hunger Games Movie Night

March 31, 7 p.m.

Learn about the fascinating aspects of wildflower folklore including the origins of their names and historical uses as medici-

Auction from page 1

board discussed building the new garage at the south end of the high school parking lot and using Elementary and Secondary School Emergency Relief funds for the project.

During that meeting, they also discussed demolishing the current bus garage north of the CIS building.

The bus garage is located behind the CIS building and the Geauga County Auditor’s Office website map shows it occupies the same three parcels the CIS building occupies.

Search

from page 1 Smallwood said it was not because of the situation where then-head varsity football coach George Gresko was fired last July for tampering with students’ grades.

Cardinal has had its share of problems in the last five years besides the Gresko investigation and subsequent firing.

Shortly after he was hired, Kermavner and the board fended off pressure from Middlefield Village to merge with Berkshire

April 2, 5-10 p.m.

The 1950 census was just released.

Spend some time looking for one’s parents or grandparents.

On March 10, Superintendent Bill Kermavner said GDP will give the district direction regarding the location of the new bus garage.

The CIS building was renovated five years ago and efforts were made to lease different parts of the building. A science laboratory was created in part of the structure and classrooms were used to allow social distancing during the COVID-19 pandemic.

Kermavner said the GPD Group will provide blueprints for the garage to help estimate the cost and to meet the guidelines of the Ohio Facilities Construction Commission.

Schools in Burton.

In addition, the district’s financial situation, which improved since Kermavner came on board, may face a challenge in the fall.

In November 2021, district Treasurer Julia Rozsnyai warned in her five-year forecast Cardinal will be in dire financial straits in fiscal year 2023 if the 9.7-mill levy is not renewed in November 2022.

Kermavner served more than a year as a principal at Cardinal High School before being offered the superintendent’s position when Scott Hunt left in February 2019 to take a job with the Ohio Department of Education.

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Wednesday, March 23, 2022

VFWs, American Legions Issue Call for New Generation

By Rose Nemunaitis editor@karlovecmedia.com In an uncertain world, the certainty of those who value patriotism endures.

For those who have already served America, a new call of duty awaits.

According to The Pew Research Center in April 2021, there were about 19 million U.S. veterans representing less than 10% of the total U.S. adult population.

As the number of veterans declines, so does the number of members available to rise up the ranks and lead Veterans of Foreign Wars and American Legions to ensure their solvency and existence.

The VFW is a nonprofit veteran’s service organization of eligible veterans and military service members from active, guard and reserve forces. Today, membership stands at more than 1.5 million and the average age of a member is about 67, according to the VFW. The American Legion was chartered and incorporated by Congress in 1919 as a patriotic veteran’s organization devoted to mutual helpfulness, with nearly 2 million members, according to AL. Chardon VFW has 227 members, Middlefield VFW has 76 members, Chardon AL has 27 members, Burton AL has 121 members and Newbury AL has approximately 45 members.

“We are aging out to the point that health problems have made it very hard for most of our guys to do things,” said Jeff Gardner, Middlefield’s VFW Post 9678 commander. “If we don’t get younger members to come in to See Generations • Page 11

Young Veterans Urge Others to Join

By Rose Nemunaitis editor@karlovecmedia.com Steve Demetriou, who grew up in Russell Township and played football, was a freshman at University School when Pat Tillman — a famous NFL player who joined the military after the Sept. 11 attacks — was killed in action in 2004 in Afghanistan.

“His story really impacted me and drove me toward seeking out military service as a way to give back to our country,” Demetriou said.

He applied to the United States Military Academy at West Point, received a nomination from the late Congressman Steve LaTourette and was accepted.

He graduated, earning Dean’s List honors, and the army commissioned him as an infantry officer.

Demetriou graduated from the elite U.S. Army Ranger School, completed airborne training and earned his jump wings before being deployed to Afghanistan as a Reconnaissance Platoon Leader in 2014.

He was awarded the Bronze Star Medal for his time overseas.

Demetriou now runs a family investment company with his brother and is running as a Republican for the Ohio House of Representatives in the newly formed District 23.

He joined as a VFW “member at large” in 2016 and the Chardon Post in September of 2021.

“I wanted to connect with more veterans,” said Demetriou, who is also a member of the Burton AL. “I also wanted to help and volunteer more within the veteran community, especially here in Geauga County. I am not in a leadership role at the Chardon VFW, but would certainly be interested in taking that on should an opportunity present itself in the future.”

He said he is glad veterans still know they can go and have fellowship with other veterans while also helping the community.

“I think the key for the VFW moving forward is preserving the good aspects of the organization and community, while ensuring it stays relevant with the next generation,” Demetriou said. “That means ensuring that young vets (post 9/11) have leadership roles both nationally and within local chapters. Once we have that input on creating change, the possibilities are endless on how to attract younger vets to the VFW or legion. Young veterans need a purpose — that’s why we joined the military in the first place. That’s why we need to really bolster our outreach program nationwide and find a way to make joining the VFW more exciting to my generation.”

After Ben Bowyer graduated from Chardon High School in 2009, he enlisted in the United States Marine Corps and served until 2015.

He was deployed to Afghanistan from 2010 to 2011.

“There is a definite sense of camaraderie that exists between combat veterans,” Bowyer said. “I joined the Chardon VFW in 2014 to be around those men and women that share those same experiences. I wanted to pay back to an organization that supported me and many others while I was deployed.”

He said past generations set the bar high in terms of service and engagement in the VFW. “It’s our turn to carry on that tradition and ensure those standards are met in the future,” Bowyer said. “Staying involved with our communities, veterans and our local school systems will ensure that bond is kept and will keep our organization moving forward in a positive manner.”

Bowyer believes attracting the next generation will demand a combination of new media strategies, physical fitness events and proactively reaching out to active duty members from the community.

VFWs across the country share similar programming and fundraising strategies, such as benefits, fundraisers, scholarships and dinners.

“These and other events raise money for their post, veterans, the community and individuals in need of assistance,” Bowyer said. “Their success largely depends on member involvement and having community support. We need to ensure See Veterans • Page 11

Wednesday, March 23, 2022

Middlefield Post

ROSE NEMUNAITIS/KMG

Pictured are, from left, Steve Demetriou, Douglas Lundblad, Kyle Petersen, Ben Bowyer at Chardon VFW Post 6519 during a recent Sunday pancake breakfast.

Generations from page 10

carry on with the work, we will cease to exist. That is my greatest concern, that there will be no one to help fellow veterans in need, and our communities, and to educate the next generation on the definition and value of patriotism.”

Geauga County military service organizations are looking to recruit younger members who have the “skills” to play a vital role in keeping the organizations alive and relevant.

“Overall, it is all about the demographics on where the organizations are located and how much (members) are involved in the local community, (which), in turn, brings in

Veterans from page 10

that we are taking care of our veterans and their families. It’s our time to start promoting patriotism through further providing this support to better cast a positive image of the VFW.” Kyle Petersen, who graduated from CHS in 2008, enlisted in the U.S. Marine Reserves directly after graduation.

“I deployed with Ben Bowyer in the same Unit, 3rd Battalion, 25th Marines, to Helmand Province, Afghanistan in 2010,” Petersen said.

After joining the VFW upon his return home, he entered the banking industry and was hired on to work at PNC Bank with the help of a fellow VFW member.

“Joining the VFW directly facilitated my ability to enter the banking industry and is directly correlated to the role I fulfill now as a director of bank operations at (United Services Automobile Assocation),” Petersen said. “Had it not been for the VFW, I don’t know if I would have entered this industry, nor had the amount of success I have had professionally.”

Petersen is trustee at Chardon VFW and previously held the role of service officer. He runs the annual VFW golf outing, which generates a large net profit used for charitable contributions within the community.

“To attract younger members, we need to modernize our mission,” Petersen said. “I like the idea of hunts, for instance, we went on a veteran’s pheasant hunt at Colebrook Ranch in Orwell sponsored by the organiza-

younger veterans,” said Douglas Lundblad, Geauga County Veterans Service commissioner.

Gardner, a Vietnam veteran, said his post used to have 12 members come to their monthly meetings, but attendance has dropped to about 5.

“Once you get the younger veterans participating, we try to prepare them for leadership positions within the organizations,” Lundblad said. “I believe it is vital to continue to recruit younger veterans to fill leadership roles within the American (Legions) and VFWs so that future young veterans leaving the service have a place to come to continue their service to the country, community, and to fellow veterans and families of veterans that may need assistance.” tion ‘Warriors in the Woods’ and that was a massive success.”

He added he would love to take younger veterans on his boat to go walleye fishing in Lake Erie.

“I think these types of outdoor activities are popular with younger veterans and are healing in their nature,” Petersen said. “The problem we do see is participation. Younger veterans generally have young families, pressing jobs and obligations outside of the VFW. We need to find a way to gather, even remotely, to participate in the organization.”

He, too, is concerned about the future of VFW. “At the Chardon VFW for instance, the vast majority of the activities and revenue stream are run and controlled for by legacy members,” Petersen said. “If we do not continue to press for our younger veterans to join this cause, we may need to eventually close our doors. In thinking about our future, we need to focus on the current needs of young veterans with connecting with VA disability enrollment, job placement and professional development, and mentorship and individual fulfillment through activities such organized hunts, fishing, outdoor activities, group runs, etc.”

Burton AL Post 459 former commander Chuck (Skip) Boehnlein said there are more young veterans out there than people realize.

The GCVSO in 2020 reported 5,436 veterans reside in the county, but that number only represents veterans who have made contact with the office.

“Joining a veteran’s organization is a great way to get camaraderie back,” Boehnlein said. “You’re among friends.”

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Middlefield Post

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Wednesday, March 23, 2022

American Legion Pancakes

Geauga Historical Society

Burton Fire Station

Parkman Chamber Pancakes

Sundays, 9 a.m. to 1 p.m.

Atwood-Mauck American Legion Post 459 is hosting its all-you-can-eat pancake breakfasts every Sunday through April 10 at the post located at 14052 Goodwin St. in Burton. Carryout orders are also available.

March 27, 9 a.m. to 1 p.m.

Burton Fire Station will serve all-you-caneat pancake and sausage breakfast at the station located at 13828 Spring St. in Burton.

Cost is $8 for adults, $7 for seniors and $6 for kids. Children 5 and under are free.

Volunteers are needed; call 440-834-4416.

March 27, 9 a.m. to 2 p.m.

The Geauga County Historical Society is hosting all-you-can-eat pancake breakfasts at the Century Village Museum, 14653 East Park St. in Burton. Drive-thru meals are also be available. For more information, call 440-834-1492.

March 27, 9 a.m. to 1 p.m.

Parkman Chamber of Commerce hosts its annual pancake breakfast by drive-thru/ carryout only from the Parkman Community House, 16295 Main Market Road. Enjoy its special recipe sausage and local pure maple syrup. Cost is $9 each.

Real Estate Transfers Following is a list of area real estate transfers for the weeks ending March 4 and March 11, 2022, provided as a public service by the Geauga County Auditor’s Office. Transfers may involve the sale of land only.

L. Klaus and Sylvia A. Matthews (trustee), $109,000. (0.24 acres) Patty L. Klaus and Sylvia A. Matthews (trustee), 15117 Timber Ridge, to Sylvia A. Matthews (trustee), $109,000. (0.24 acres)

HUNTSBURG TOWNSHIP Scott P. Hoar (trustee), 12480 Eastpoint Drive, to Victor Sutton, $35,000. (3.01 acres)

PARKMAN TOWNSHIP Mose J. and Anna Marie Troyer, Bundysburg Road, to Marvin N. and Esther M. Shrock, $152,000. (16.38 acres) The Drees Company, 16890 Hazy Morning Drive, to Tina L. and James A. Sullivan, $642,100. (2.59 acres) Marvin 18258 Madison LLC, 18258 Madison Road, to Katherine Mehta, $114,400.

(0.68 acres) Reuben M. and Betty J. Hershberger, 17720 Reeves Road, to Aaron Lee and Ellen Hostetler, $282,000. (6.55 acres) Allen N. and Katie Mae Yoder, 17025 Old State Road, to Ivan I. and Martha J. Miller, $74,200. (6.90 acres) Albert M. and Wilma A. Yoder, 15553 Patch Road, to Wallace J. and Fannie E. Shrock, $200,000. (4.27 acres)

MIDDLEFIELD TOWNSHIP James M. Takacs, 15851 Chipmunk Lane, to Johnny Miller, $104,000. (4.29 acres) MIDDLEFIELD VILLAGE Patty L. Klaus and The Estate of Earnest Lee Gunnoe, 15117 Timber Ridge, to Patty

Sales & Special Buys both days

Hourly door prizes on Saturday

The Marketplace Cafe s y Da $1.50 Hot Dogs Friday, March 25 $4 Combo Hot Dog, Pop, Chips Saturday, March 26 Food Specials at

15864 Nauvoo Road, Middlefield (440)632-9310 themarketplacemall@yahoo.com Mon. - Fri. 10 a.m. - 5:30 p.m.

Sat. 10 a.m. - 5 p.m.

Find Us on Facebook @MarketplaceMallMiddlefield

Marketplace Mall & Marketplace Cafe

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.)

Geauga County: March 23, 5 p.m., Board of Health, at 470 Center St., Bldg. 8; March 29, 9:30 a.m., Geauga County Commissioners; March 29, 9:30 a.m., Geauga County Commissioners; April 5, 9:30 a.m., Geauga County Commissioners. All county commissioners meetings are held at 470 Center St., Bldg. 4, Chardon, unless otherwise noted.

Huntsburg Township: April 5, 7 p.m., Board of Trustees. All meetings held at the Town Hall, 16534 Mayfield Road.

Parkman Township: April 5, 7 p.m., Board of Trustees. All meetings are held at the Community House, 16295 Main Market Road, unless otherwise noted.

Cardinal BOE: March 23, 6:30 p.m., work session. All meetings held at BOE Office, 15982 E. High St., Middlefield, unless otherwise indicated.

Middlefield Post

Wednesday, March 23, 2022

East Geauga Kiwanis Honors Students SUBMITTED

East Geauga Kiwanis Club recently honored outstanding third-graders, pictured from left, Fiona F., Melissa M. and Jessman K. from Jordak Elementary School for their performance in class during the second grading period. Each student received a certificate and four literature books from the club.

SUBMITTED

From left, Beverly Goodridge, Burton Middlefield Rotary president, stands with Four-Way Speech Contest winner India Martin, runner-up Lucas Stoddard and Rotary Speech Contest organizer Dave Terrill.

Rotary Hosts 4-Way Speech Contest The Rotary Club of Burton - Middlefield held the annual Four-Way Test Speech Contest on March 9. Area high school students were invited to attend. The students were asked to speak about issues of interest and discuss their chosen issue in relation to the application of the Rotary 4-Way Test, which states, “Is it the truth? Is it fair to all concerned? Will it build goodwill and better friendships? Will it be beneficial to all concerned?”

Two students from Berkshire competed

for cash prizes. India Martin spoke about the need for cost-free mental health care and Lucas Stoddard spoke about the negative impact of technology on the interpersonal skills of the youth of America.

India Martin won first place, $500 from the Burton-Middlefield Rotary and will move on to the 6630 Rotary District contest held on April 9 at Theodore Roosevelt High School in Kent. Lucas Stoddard won second place and will receive $300.

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Middlefield Post

Wednesday, March 23, 2022

Schools Academic Awards Available

The Awards Committee for the First Congregational Church of Claridon announces the availability of awards for the academic year 2021-22. The purpose of the award is to encourage students 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 office of Chardon, Berkshire and Cardinal schools or Claridon Congregational Church, 13942 Mayfield Road, Huntsburg, OH 44046.

Completed applications should be mailed to the church and postmarked by April 15.

Farm Bureau Offers Scholarships

The Geauga County Farm Bureau is offering scholarship opportunities to students pursuing a 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 Bu-

reau members at the time of application and payout. They must be a 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 April 1.

For more information, call the farm bureau office at 440-426-2195.

PGP Offers Scholarships

Protect Geauga Parks is offering the 2022 Bob McCullough Memorial Conservation Scholarship to assist Geauga County high school seniors interested in conservation careers. Three scholarships of $1,000 each will be awarded.

Applications are due by April 10.

For information or to access an application, email info.protectgeaugaparks@gmail. com.

Stop Neck Pain and Avoid Surgery

By Dr. Adam M. Cramer Neck pain, whether from a motor vehicle accident, sleeping on it wrong or from lifting too much weight, can lead to chronic deficits limiting your quality-of-life and function.

It is important to see a licensed doctor of physical therapy FIRST to assess your symptoms and movement limitations evaluating how your body is compensat- Cramer ing for the neck pain. We see a lot of of our community get misdiagnosed based on their symptoms and not their functional movement limitations, which result in invasive procedures including surgery and nerve blocks. If you don’t want surgery don’t consult with a surgeon and if you want to be treated in an environment where there’s no conflict of interest see a independent physical therapy practice first vs a physician owned practice where surgery is prioritized.

Causes of neck pain are clear

Besides traumatic injury such as a car accident, poor posture is a major problem for many who develop neck pain. If you lean your head and shoulders forward constantly instead of sitting/standing up straight, sooner or later your neck is going to start paining. Poor posture places your neck and upper back in a significant mechanical disadvantage and the surrounding muscles, if not strong enough, muscles will strain, get tighter and create painful muscle spasms that can lead to years of chronic pain.

Best treatment for neck pain

By seeing a doctor of physical therapy first they are able to fully evaluate your neck pain, find the root source, identify limitations

and work at improving on those limitations by providing fast acting pain relieving techniques such as hands-on manual therapy, massage, dry needling, trigger point release and moist heat which will help the surrounding strained muscles “let go“ in order to alleviate the limited movement surrounding nerves and joints. You will be taught exactly how to reduce your pain through simple effective techniques to mimic the mobility treatment performed by your doctor of physical therapy so you can reduce your own pain right when you need it the most.

Never let any provider adjust or manipulate your neck. The cervical vertebrae and joints are not necessarily the problem, it’s the muscles surrounding the vertebrae that restrict joint movement causing painful symptoms. If you have a problem with movement focus on the structures that make you move (muscles) and you will move better.

Working to keep neck pain controlled

Like anything else, prevention of neck pain is desired even more than finding ways to treat yourself once it has occurred.

Be sure that you are not sitting excessively far forward, backward, to the left or to the right for a prolonged period of time, this will place excessive stress on the opposite neck muscle group excessively activating that muscle which will ultimately fatigue then start straining and causing pain. Be sure to moderate your sitting positions alternating between them.

If you or a loved one is suffering from neck pain please consult with a Doctor of Physical Therapy at MyoFit Clinic immediately so you you don’t receive the wrong diagnosis and treatment which can lead to unnecessary orthopedic surgery.

Dr. Adam M. Cramer, PT, DPT, is a licensed Doctor of Physical Therapy, MyoFitClinic.com Call 440-286-1007 for help with your pain.

Middlefield Post

Wednesday, March 23, 2022

Classifieds FOR SALE

PETS & ANIMALS

Free used motor oil. Portable Hummingbird Fishfinder $85 or best offer. 440-5482657.

Green-cheeked conure with large cage and accessories. Can live up to 30+ years. Very sociable bird. $200. 440-9040906.

2004 Bayliner 265 Ciera Cabin Cruiser.

9.6-foot beam. Fairport, OH. $26,999. Call 440-635-0212.

Shop AVON at home or office. Delivery and a 100% Satisfaction Guarantee.

Bev Thompson Avon Independent Sales Representative Call: 440-708-8045 Visit my Web site: https://www.avon.com/ myavon/bthompson8804 Applewood chips for grilling $5/bag.

General Electric Dryer, works well, $75.

Chest of drawers, $10. 12724 S.R.88, Garrettsville. 216-410-3265.

Semi-feral cats displaced in Youngstown apartment building demolition need barn homes. Will be spayed/neutered.

Call Rebecca 440-321-2485.

MISCELLANEOUS FREE fact: To get our kids addicted, cigarette companies flavor e-cigarettes and even use synthetic nicotine. Addiction = Profit!

Antique clocks many; large greenhouse panes of glass $5 each: humpback chest $89; large rocking horse $79. 440-338-3563.

Power recliner sleep lift chair. Used 6 hours. Light tan, heat and massage. Paid $2,300, sell for $1,500. 440-693-4078.

GARAGE/ESTATE SALES Marketplace Mall in Middlefield is looking for vendors, retailers, artisans and crafters with unique and quality merchandise. Call 440-313-8147 for more information.

HELP WANTED

REAL ESTATE Lots for sale. Thompson Township. 1 acre. Wooded, scenic, quiet side street $12,900. 440-289-0708

SERVICES John’s Plumbing: Affordable and reliable. Water heaters, toilets, faucets, drain cleaning, gas lines, sump pumps, well tanks. 440-285-0800.

Offering special discounts for interior and exterior painting and staining this season. 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, 440-813-4272.

No answer, leave message.

WANTED Wanted: One donkey for Palm Sunday Procession on Chardon Square. Willing to reimburse. Call 440-285-4641.

WANTED TO BUY Old fishing tackle wanted: fishing lures (wood or plastic), mouse to bear traps, wooden duck decoys. Call Lee 440-3138331.

Buying all Stanley Bailey planes and machinist tools. Call Karl at 440-812-3392.

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Middlefield Post

Wednesday, March 23, 2022