Middlefield Post 5-29-2024

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Middlef ield POST

Community News from Middlefield, Parkman, Huntsburg and Surrounding Areas

SUBMITTED

The Cardinal Local Schools District recently secured a school bus purchase grant from the State of Ohio for $45,000 that paid for almost half of the much-needed upgrade to the transportation department.

Memorial Day Roots Honored in Geauga

Flags wave proudly and red flowers honor those who died in service of the nation as Memorial Day approaches.

Early observances on Decoration Day are rooted in the rich history of Geauga County, where generations of ancestors served and gave all.

Three years after the Civil War ended, the Grand Army of the Republic established Memorial Day as a time for the nation to decorate veterans’ graves with flowers, according to the United States Department of Veterans Affairs.

“GAR quickly became the preeminent veterans’ organization formed at the close of the Civil War with membership reaching its peak in 1890, with over 400,000 members,” local historian Bari Oyler Stith said. “By then, the GAR had well over 7,000 posts, ranging in size from fewer than two dozen members in small towns, to more than a thousand in some cities.”

In 1971, Memorial Day was declared a national holiday and officially observed on the last Monday in May. It is well believed the date was chosen because flowers would be in bloom across the country.

“Almost every prominent veteran was enrolled in GAR, including five presidents — Grant, Hayes, Garfield, Harrison and McKinley,” Stith said.

ROSE NEMUNAITIS/KMG

Local historian Bari Oyler Stith, left, and Mary Ann Dottore, Hambden Township Cemetery sexton administrator, look at tombstones in the cemetery to add to its historical records.

Park Ranger Alan Gephardt, at James A. Garfield National Historic Site in Mentor, shared Garfield’s connections to Geauga County.

The county was part of the former president’s congressional district for 17 years while Garfield was a member of the U.S. House of Representatives — from Dec. 5, 1863 to Dec. 1, 1880.

Being a politician, Garfield was called on to speak to various groups in many places, including citizens of Geauga County.

“In the fall of 1877, for example, he spoke at a meeting held at ‘the Opera House,’ in Chardon, where his speech ‘was well-received,’” Gephardt said. “The most significant connection Garfield had to Geau-

ga was the school he attended at Chester, the present-day Chesterland, from 1849 to 1851, called the Geauga Seminary, a Baptist school that offered James Garfield his first taste of formal education.”

Congressman Garfield was the honored guest at the first Decoration Day — now Memorial Day ceremonies — at Arlington National Cemetery on May 30, 1868, and gave the first annual Decoration Day address.

He “set the standard for explaining what Memorial Day is about, and why it should be commemorated, with his address titled, “Strewing Flowers on the Graves of Union Soldiers,” he said, sharing the following passage:

“If ever silence is golden, it must be here beside the graves of fifteen thousand men, whose lives were more significant than speech, and whose death was a poem, the music of which can never be sung… I love to believe that no heroic sacrifice is ever lost; that the characters of men are molded and inspired by what their fathers have done…”

“The citizens of Geauga County, like the citizens from all over James Garfield’s congressional district, must have been proud of their representative,” Gephardt added.

“Here was a man able to express his thoughts and feelings, his reverence for his country and countrymen — his fellow soldiers — so tenderly, so touchingly and with such devotion.”

Early Memorial Day Observance

Stith often wonders if participants in Memorial Day observances realize how timeless this method of observance is.

“I am struck and moved by the similarity of how we honor all veterans during today’s Memorial Day celebrations,” Stith said.

In Hambden Township, around 1868 services were held at the Methodist Church, now Freedom Alliance Church, and included addresses, choral selections, reading of the roll of honor and a procession to the

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FGP Explorers Series

June 1, 10 a.m. to noon

Join Foundation for Geauga Parks for a local flora and fauna interpretation at Swine Creek Reservation in Middlefield.

For information or to register, visit foundationforgeaugaparks.org or call 440564-1048.

Woodland Management Field Day

June 1, 9 a.m. and 1 p.m.

Participate in a free interactive field day at the Working Woods demonstration forest at The Holden Arboretum, 9805 Sperry Road, Kirtland. Attendees will tour the woods and learn about woodland management demonstrations firsthand.

Multiple agencies and professionals will also be in attendance with materials and information. Morning and afternoon tour times are available.

For more information or to register, call Pam Brown at 440-602-3849, ext. 269 or visit holdenfg.org.

Geauga

Town Crier

Skywatchers Club

June 3, 6:30-7:30 p.m.

Join Geauga Skywatchers Club for a presentation about small solar system bodies at Middlefield Library. To register, visit www. geaugalibrary.net.

GCRTA to Meet

June 4, 11:15 a.m.

The Geauga County Retired Teachers Association will meet at the E.O.U.V. Club, 8636 Pekin Road in Russell Township. Gathering time will be followed by a business meeting at 11:30 a.m. and a grilled chicken salad luncheon at noon.

Guest speakers are Wade Steen, reinstated STRS board member, and Robin Rayfield, ORTA executive director. A 50/50 raffle and free lunch raffle will follow the program.

For more information, contact Judy Miller at 440 487-4324 or email harpergma6@ gmail.com. Remember to bring paper products or canned goods for Geauga County Job and Family Services.

Bloodmobile

June 12, 11 a.m. to 4 p.m.

American Red Cross is hosting a blood drive at First United Methodist Church, 14999 South State St., Middlefield. Visit RedCrossBlood.org or call 1-800-733-2767 to make an appointment.

Rummage and Trunk Sale

June 29, 9 a.m. to 6 p.m.

Huntsburg Congregational Church is hosting a rummage and trunk sale. For information or to reserve a trunk space, contact Lynnette at 440-477-2822.

Grief Support Group

The Geauga County Sheriff’s Office LOSS Team will hold its next weekly Bereavement Companioning and Grief Support Group outside in nature at a Geauga Park District park in Chardon on Mondays beginning June 10 for 10 weeks. The group will meet in a covered space that is disability-friendly with easy

parking. Registration is required by calling 440-279-2062 or emailing tjordan@co.geauga.oh.us.

Help for Mental Illness

NAMI Geauga offers mental health support groups and classes for families and persons affected by mental illness. There is no charge to participants. All offerings are 100% peer led and meet in person or on Zoom. Check out NAMI’s calendar online for the latest listings: www.namigeauga.org.

Life Recovery 12

Step Meeting Fridays, 6:30-8 p.m.

The open group for men and women meets weekly at Horizons Christian Assembly, 14920 White Road in Middlefield. It 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.

Geauga Park District

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

Archery For Everyone

Enter Geauga Park District’s new Family Fun Giveaway by June 3 to qualify to win one of three $500 archery shopping sprees, plus six arrows provided by co-presenter Ohio Premier Archery & Sports in Middlefield. Three winners will be randomly selected. Visit the park district website for information.

Chickagami Park’s archery range will be bustling with archery programming for adults, families, and kids ages 9 and older to learn and practice target archery using park district equipment, plus special sessions for scouts and homeschooling families. All participants must be 50 inches or taller and wear closed-toed shoes, and no children younger than 9 may attend. Completion of a waiver may also be required onsite. Chickagami Park is located at 17957 Tavern Road in Parkman Township.

Geauga Public Library

MIDDLEFIELD BRANCH

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

Summer Reading Kickoff

June 1, 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. • Offsite

Join at the Geauga County Fairgrounds, 14373 N. Cheshire St., Burton, to kick off the 2024 Summer Reading Program. Register for the program, make adventure-themed crafts, compete in games, get a photo taken with Rascal and more. No registration is required.

Geocaching 101

June 5, 6:30-7:30 p.m.

Kick off a summer of adventure by joining the Geauga Park District and learning what geocaching is and how to play.

Libby & Hoopla Tech Help

June 11, 2-3 p.m.

Visit the GCPL Administrative Center to learn more about streaming services. Learn how to download the Libby and Hoopla apps, how to search for titles, place holds and more.

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Cardinal Schools

Dyslexia Simulation

Three teachers from Jordak Elementary School participated in a dyslexia simulation on May 7 at Riverside Local Schools. Through six simulations, the teachers experienced everyday challenges that individuals with dyslexia face. The simulations were designed to improve understanding and encourage the use of effective teaching techniques. The workshops were led by members of the Northern Ohio Branch of IDA.

Food Pyramids

Second-grade students were given three wooden frames and then different colored blocks to form their own food pyramids. The first three blocks were represented as plants. The next several blocks represented animals that feed on plants, and the top block represented an animal that feeds on other animals that first feed on plants. The entire activity relates to a DVD that was played for the students before they began making their food pyramids.

Community Meetings

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

Huntsburg Township: June 4, 7 p.m., Board of Trustees; June 18, 7 p.m., Board of Trustees. All meetings held at the Town Hall, 16534 Mayfield Road.

Middlefield Township: June 10, 7 p.m., Board of Trustees. All meetings are held at Township Office, 15228 Madison Road, unless otherwise noted.

Middlefield Village: June 11, 5:30 p.m.

6 p.m. – Planning Commission; June 13, 5:30 p.m. – Recreation, 6 p.m. – Finance & Ordinance, 6:30 p.m. – Safety, 7 p.m. – Village Council. All meetings are at the Municipal Center, 14860 N. State Ave.

Parkman Township: June 4, 7 p.m., Board of Trustees; June 18, 7 p.m., Board of Trustees. All meetings are held at the Community House, 16295 Main Market Road, unless otherwise noted.

Cardinal BOE: June 12, 6:30 p.m., regular meeting; June 26, 6:30 p.m., work session. All meetings held at BOE Office, 15982 E. High St., Middlefield, unless otherwise indicated.

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Jordak Elementary School teachers participate in a dyslexia simulation on May 7 at Riverside Local Schools.

Volunteers Needed To Deliver Meals

The Geauga County Department on Aging is in need of Home Delivered Meal drivers for Burton areas on Fridays. The meal routes start at the Middlefield Senior Center, 15820 Ridgewood Road in Middlefield. The Home Delivered Meal program delivers warm, nutritious lunches between the hours of 11 a.m. and 1 p.m., Monday through Friday, to homebound senior citizens in the community.

The department on aging is looking for area agencies, organizations, church groups and individuals 18 years old or older, with a valid driver’s license, who are interested in volunteering for the program. Training includes filing department on aging Home Delivered Meal volunteer paperwork and a short orientation about the program. Volunteers can deliver meals on a weekly, bi-weekly, monthly or as needed/substitute basis.

To sign up or for any questions, contact Nathan Gorton at 440-279-2138 or email at NGorton@co.geauga.oh.us.

Cardinal BOE Approves School Name Change

As Cardinal Middle School transforms into a kindergarten-through-sixth-grade school, it will also have a new name.

Cardinal Schools Board of Education voted unanimously May 8 to rename the building at 16175 Alameda Drive Cardinal Elementary School.

The decision between Cardinal Elementary School and Jordak Elementary School was made following a survey to which 199 individuals responded, said board President Linda Smallwood.

“The survey results were very, very close. The majority of our current parents, students and staff voted for Cardinal Elementary (School),” she said.

Community members who did not identify as students, parents or staff numbered 11. Nine of those who took the survey and 60 of 75 alumni who responded were in favor of Jordak Elementary School, according to the survey chart she handed out.

Of the current student/parent/staff responses, 73 of 113 favored Cardinal Elementary School, it showed.

The final tally was 91 responses favoring Cardinal and 108 favoring Jordak, according to the hand out.

“I was hoping the survey would be more clear. We are being asked to choose between students, parents and staff versus our alumni and history,” said board member Kristen

Klepper. “I just want the community and alumni to know we hear you, we see you, we acknowledge you.”

Smallwood emphasized the survey was not a vote for the name, but was an opinion check.

Due to the support for including Jordak in the name, there is potential for a “history hall” at the new school, she said.

“I’d like to make sure we do something to acknowledge the legacy of AJ Jordak,” Klepper said, offering to take the lead on the Huskie history hall.

Board member Anita Marlowe supported the idea.

“It’s important to acknowledge that a lot of people contributed to Cardinal, to remember Parkman and Huntsburg are part (of the history),” she said, adding the history hall should include pictures of all the schools.

“We should keep our history intact,” she said.

Due to decreasing enrollment, the board voted over the last few years to combine the student population of Cardinal Intermediate and Jordak Elementary schools on East High Street and move grades Kindergarten through sixth to the middle school building on Alameda.

Grades seventh through 12th will be housed at the neighboring high school on Thompson Avenue.

The former CIS was bought by All Around Children daycare and preschool, which had its grand opening last week. According to the district’s three-year plan, JES may be sold. The plan also includes moving the board of education offices to the high school.

In other business, the board voted to contract with EdTech of Simi Valley, Calif., to handle the district’s IT program for 37 months for $268,250 in quarterly payments.

The education technology company will provide an IT director, a technology programs manager, a network operations engineer, onsite technical resources, Chromebook management and supplemental staff, according to the online agenda.

The board also voted to contract with Ravenwood Mental Health to pay $101,546 per year for three therapeutic behavioral health support workers for students in kindergarten through grade 12 identified as needing those services.

Pilgrim Mennonite Church will hold Vacation Bible School June 17-21 from 6:30-8:30 p.m. for youth ages 4 years through eighthgrade at the church located at 16078 Old State Road in Middlefield. For information, call Judy at 440-548-2219.

25 words for $15 Deadline: Friday at Noon

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Mennonite VBS
VBS
MIDDLEFIELD POST 440-729-7667

Faith Matters

Delivering God’s Special Touch

It is my joy and privilege to have ministry opportunities in two local special care facilities in the Middlefield area. The residents are responsive and grateful for the faith, hope and love we bring. Most of them have faced significant challenges to their health and require specialized nursing care on a daily basis. The familiar surroundings of home and a more independent lifestyle have given way to the realities of advancing age and diminished health.

It is fascinating to gain information about individual lives and learn more about the experiences that have shaped their lives. Most have had productive careers, raised loving families, served in the military, and contributed in important ways to the life we enjoy here in America. It is vital that these dear people feel valued and know that there are those who care about them. Loneliness is a battle that any of us can face from time to time. However, at this time in life, when perhaps a spouse has died, or adult children are far away, it becomes even more likely to be an issue.

sion as her only son’s body was being carried in a coffin to be buried in the outskirts of the village. The Bible says that Jesus’ heart overflowed with compassion when he saw her. He said, “Don’t cry!” and walked over to the coffin and touched it. He then spoke to the dead boy and commanded him to get up. Suddenly he sat up and began to talk. Jesus then gave him back to his mother.

We may not often see the miraculous power to heal like our Lord did, but we can still show His love. In fact, as followers of Jesus, it is expected that we do so.

Jesus always seemed to be on the lookout for those who needed His special touch the most. God has a tender heart for those who are weighted down with the burdens of life. Sickness, rejection, failure and hopelessness were often supplanted by His love, power and peace.

The Samaritan woman Jesus met at the well had a story of many failed relationships. Men had probably used and then discarded her. Her life was in survival mode, often just trying to avoid the gossip and scorn of those around her. However, when the Lord showed up, everything changed for her. New hope, rooted in Christ’s love and forgiveness, cat apulted her back to her village to tell others about her Savior.

In Matthew 25, we have a picture of the “sorting out” that will take place when the Son of Man comes in His glory. It is described as the separation of the sheep from the goats. The criteria given for those to be eternally blessed versus those who will suffer eternal punishment is our willingness to reach out to those in need. (Biblically, our salvation is based on the grace of God, not our works. However, the evidence and fruit of that living faith will certainly be demonstrated by our good works (See Ephesians 2:8-10).

Jesus said that when we feed the hungry, give a drink to the thirsty, clothe those in need, look after the sick, show hospitality to a stranger, or visit those in prison… we actually do it for Him. Christ so identifies with such people that when we reach out to them, it touches the very heart of God.

May the Lord fill you and me with His compassion and a readiness to be His caring servants each day. You will bring blessing to

Senior Citizens Go to Prom

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SUBMITTED
The Middlefield Senior Center and Burton Health Care organized a senior prom on May 10, where over 40 local area seniors attended. Many had never been to prom before. The event featured good food, dancing, live entertainment by Terry James and elegant prom attire. Thanks to everyone who made the day special for our Geauga seniors.

The following is a sampling of the calls handled by the Middlefield Village Police Department, May 2-16, 2024.

EXTRA PATROL

May 2

5:38 p.m., Industrial Parkway. Manager requesting extra patrol due to receiving information from an employee that there is a male after him who is going to shoot up the business and set cars on fire. This was supposed to occur from 10-11 p.m. Unknown male’s name. Officer advised. Nightshift will be notified.

FOUND PROPERTY

May 7

9:39 p.m., S. Springdale Avenue. Found wal-

Police Blotter

let, multiple credit cards in different people’s names. Food stamp card, Tractor Supply card, ID. See report.

FRAUD

May 2

6:50 p.m., S. Springdale Avenue. Female came in and asked caller to pay for items for a baby. Caller bought the items for $126 and then a male came back in the store 15 minutes later and returned the items. Caller will be waiting by customer service.

INDECENT EXPOSURE

May 6

5:22 p.m., S. State Avenue. There are a male and female white Honda that went behind the dumpster behind Marathon to urinate

and then left. Unable to get a plate from building cameras. They went toward the village and its cameras might be able to get a plate. If police can identify them, the business would like to press charges.

JUVENILE PROBLEM

May 15

3:02 p.m., N. State Avenue. Juvenile came into the station to report he was assaulted after school by unnamed subject. He claimed he was walking home from school with another person and unnamed male started saying stuff to them. They tried walking away but unnamed subject attacked them. Juvenile was able to get away and came to police department to report it.

LOCKOUT

May 15

4:10 p.m., W. High Street. Employee at Circle K would like an officer to assist her with getting the office unlocked where there is a bird loose. Caller went to get something to help her catch the bird and the door locked behind her. Entry gained, bird removed.

PROPERTY DAMAGE

May 8

4:29 p.m., Lake Avenue. Amish man ruined caller’s yard. Her iris flowers are ruined. She is upset and wants to make a report. Caller is upset Middlefield is “turning into Cleveland.” No assistance needed.

SUSPICIOUS

May 12

5:59 a.m., S. Springdale Avenue. Male in parking lot peeing. Right by the construction area. Male has been on the property for a couple weeks. Walmart requested for him to be trespassed. Male understood and left the property.

May 14

5:59 p.m., W. High Street. Male taking photos and watching a small child playing in Arby’s lobby. This is the same male who was taking photos before. Red work van. Officer advised and made contact with male in his vehicle in parking lot. He denied taking photos of children or starring at children and gave officer consent to look through his phone. Officer observed no photos of children in his recently taken images. Male told Arby’s can request he be trespassed from property. Company will advise police later of its course of action.

WEAPONS OFFENSE

May 3

6:06 p.m., S. Springdale Avenue. Mega TK 2384 on back of white truck, red stripe, male mid to late 40s. Caller asked male to leave the lot for paving and he pulled a gun on him. Caller advised he waved it at him twice. Caller can no longer see semi. Male brandished firearm at Walmart employee. Report under review by prosecutor’s office.

Real Estate Transfers

Following is a list of area real estate transfers for the weeks of May 13 & 20, 2024, provided as a public service by the Geauga County Auditor’s Office. Transfers may involve the sale of land only.

HUNTSBURG TOWNSHIP

Lori Byrne, Brookview Road (lot 52), to Brian and Brittany Anderson, $20,000. (1.45 acres)

MIDDLEFIELD TOWNSHIP

Mary M. Miller, and Reuben C. and Martha L. Byler, 14523 Madison Road, to Reuben C. and Martha L. Byler, $38,000. (1.00 acres)

MIDDLEFIELD VILLAGE

PBP Ltd., 16481 Cottonwood Place (Bldg. 5 Unit 40), to Stephen and Linda Schmidt, $250,000. (0.00 acres)

NVR Inc., 15232 Timber Ridge (s/l 158), to Scott A. and Sheila L. Major, $321,900. (0.21 aces) Middlefield Parkway, 15254 Timber Ridge

(s/l 147), to NVR Inc., $64,600. (0.21 acres)

Middlefield Parkway, 15256 Timber Ridge (s/l 146), to NVR Inc., $64,600. (0.21 acres) Middlefield Parkway, 15247 Timber Ridge (s/l 174), to NVR Inc., $64,600. (0.21 acres)

Jerry A. Elliott, 15002 Lenny Drive, to Equity Trust Company, custodian FBO Thomas J. Wieland, $175,000. (0.79 acres)

Richard L. Seyer (TOD), 16034 High St., to Pierce Street Properties LLC, $209,000. (0.38 acres)

PARKMAN TOWNSHIP

Matthew J. and Heather N. Soeder, 16560 Old State Road, to Terrance L. Pennington Jr., $319,500. (2.00 acres)

Jacob R. and Ellen E. Schlabach, 18960 Nelson Road, to Marty N. Fisher, $200,000. (2.00 acres)

Daniel J., Linda, Mark and Betty Ann Hershberger, 17121 Tavern Road, to Daniel J., Linda, Martin D. and Emma A. Hershberger, $166,000. (13.30 acres)

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Memorial Day

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cemetery, Stith said.

Mary Ann Dottore, Hambden Township’s Cemetery Sexton administrator, said according to Freedom Alliance’s Pastor Andrew Beorn, his church building was built around the Civil War.

At Hambden Township Cemetery, nine soldiers with wreaths and their ladies with bouquets placed colors on the graves of veterans, followed by citizens with flowers to further decorate the graves, Stith said, adding in 1920, two Civil War veterans survived to attend the services, with other visitors attending from Chardon, Huntsburg, Chagrin Falls, Painesville and Cleveland.

“The township continues to support the Memorial Day observance and honor the veterans of their township, as well as all veterans that served our country,” Dottore said.

“Viewing the historical records in the town hall is very interesting. The records go back to the 1800s. It is exciting to know I have the opportunity to add to those historical records — that someone in the future will find as interesting as I do.”

Hambden Fire Chief Scott Hildenbrand said the fire department began the tradition of having a parade, then a speaker at the Hambden Congregational Church, followed by the reading of veterans’ names in the township park and a pancake breakfast back at the fire station.

“We must never forget,” he said. “It is very important to continue this tradition and it is a great opportunity for the community to come together to remember those who served our country.”

Civil War Veteran

Edward Payson Latham

“When I think of Memorial Day, I think of the Grand Army of the Republic and Civil War veterans, especially ‘Pace’ Latham, who was severely wounded, but returned to Geauga to lead a very fulfilling life full of public service,” Stith said.

Born March 1839, Latham became commander at the Pool Post (Troy Township) of the GAR.

“On June 19, 1862, after the victory at Cumberland Gap, Kentucky … troops celebrated by firing three rounds from cannons — a spirited contest to see which cannon could fire the most rounds. While loading for a second charge, Latham’s cannon discharged prematurely, throwing Latham about 20 feet,” Stith said.

His arms were so badly shattered, they had to be amputated to the elbow and he lost sight in one eye. His obituary suggests he spent the remainder of his life in continual pain and required amputations, which took both of his arms off nearly to the shoulder.

He drove a wagon with reins looped around his neck and shoulders, and wrote with pen between his teeth.

According to the Geauga Republic, Latham gave a following speech on Decoration Day, 1876, on the price of liberty, to his comrades and fellow citizens in Troy:

“The subject before us is fraught with interest to us all. And why? Because we are each and all the recipients of those blessings which are secured to us through the patriotic efforts of those whose memory we have met today to perpetuate. This is not a gala day. We have not gathered here for mere pastime or amusement, but we have gathered here to pay a tribute of respect to the memory

Local Historian Helps Keep Geauga Records Alive

Born and raised in Licking County, Bari Oyler Stith moved to Geauga County when her husband got a job in Chardon after com pleting a tour in the Army during the Vietnam War.

“I am very appreciative and blessed to live in this beautiful, vibrant county where people celebrate their heritage through long-standing traditions, as well as preservation and adaptation of some of our most meaningful places,” Stith said. “I am inspired by the sheer number of and dedication of our veterans … who have returned to us, then turned their talents and energies into service in so many ways to our community.”

Stith is director of Ursuline College’s Historic Preservation Program. Her students have done preservation projects all over Ohio, including at Geauga County sites, such as Union Chapel, Cen tennial Oak, Punderson Manor House, Huntsburg Town Hall and Parkman Post Office.

She’s also a trustee of the South Newbury Union Chapel Na tional Register Historic Site, Leadership Geauga Heritage/History Day narrator for bus tours and from 1990-2008, served as Geauga County archivist and records manager.

“I so appreciate that we, Geaugans, retain moments, such as our Memorial Day celebrations, to honor our veterans for their service to our community and our country,” Stith said.

To her, Memorial Day is an annual moment for reflecting on both the lessons of the past and the needs of the future.

“I have grandchildren now, so I think a lot about what they will need to anchor them for a successful future,” Stith said.

Her family members have served in the military since the American Revolution.

“To me, Memorial Day in Geauga is a time to bring my family members together to share those stories with the youngsters and participate in the community events … to honor those who have given their lives for us — as Memorial Day was originally meant to be — as well as those who have served,” Stith said.

of those who died that their country might live…

Comrades and fellow citizens, after concluding the exercise here, we shall, with slow and solemn tread, march to yonder churchyard, where lie the remains of some of our noble comrades, and, as gentle hands take those vernal flowers, fit emblems as they are, of the purity of the principles to maintain which our comrades gave their lives…”

A Geauga County Commissioner, Latham moved to Burton and built Latham House, now part of the Burton Village Historic District on the National Register of Historic Places on the southeast corner of Burton Square.

“According to local lore, there are handles rather than doorknobs so that Latham could use his arms to open doors,” Stith said.

Chardon’s Dan Best said Latham’s prosthetic apparatus is displayed at Geauga County Historical Society’s Century Village in Burton.

“Payson/Pace was evidently a very independent, determined and ambitious fellow,” Best said. “Story goes that when a stiff breeze blew his brimmed hat off his head, a passerby went to pick it up for Pace. Latham waived off the would-be good-deed doer. With the flick of his boot toe, Pace flicked the hat upside down, bent over completely at the waste, and placed his crown inside the hat’s bowl and came up wearing it.

He died at age 82 and is buried at Troy Cemetery.

Veterans continued to remember their fallen comrades through the development of the GAR Highways, running cross country and following U.S. Route 6 through Chardon, Hambden and Montville townships.

“One of the most important displays of respect we can do on Memorial Day is to remember,” Stith said. “Find a way, no matter how small, to remember all those who have

fought and sacrificed for the blessings we have today and for this beautiful country that shelters and nurtures us.

“Whether we attend our heartwarming community celebrations or gather with family and friends, or fly our American flag and

plant flowers in red, white and blue — this is a day for thoughtful remembrance, gratitude and joy,” she continued. “And, involving our children is paramount so that they take these lessons about sacrifice and cost and consequences into the future.”

Page 7 Wednesday May 29, 2024 Middlefield Post
ROSE NEMUNAITIS/KMG Local historian Bari Oyler Stith looks at Sherman Dickens tomb, a Civil War veteran, in Hambden Township Cemetery. He was born in 1842 and died in 1862.

FOR RENT

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

EVENTS

Dorothy’s Porch Free Rummage Celebration: Lutheran Church, 10621 Auburn Road, Chardon. May 30-31, 9a2p. Clothing, household items, bedding, etc. Want to donate? Call 440-285-3490.

FOR SALE

Western Reserve Memorial Gardens, Chesterland OH, Chapel Mausoleum, Double Glass Niche; $7,500/OBO. 440-487-9131 after 5pm.

2017 Kubota Riding Mower: T2080 20-HP 42” deck, well maintained, maintenance by Kubota every year, immaculate condition; $1,300. 440-668-4773.

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

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

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

Janome Memory Craft 15000 Embroidery Machine, Koala Slimline Artisan Cabinet in Golden Teak w/chair, wine color. For more information call 440-533-5292.

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

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

GARAGE/ESTATE SALES

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

Nottingham Woods Multi Neighborhood Garage Sale, in Chardon (Munson Township): Jun 6-7, 9a-3p, and Sat. Jun 8, 9a-12n. Two neighborhoods participating: Sutton Place and Bridal Trail, both off Auburn Road.

Barn & Yard Sale: Jun 6-8, 8a-5p. 11085 Taylor Wells Rd. Household, crafts, Longaberger, books, tools, sandblaster, lift-table, wood chipper, leaf blower, tiller, bullet heater, acetylene torches. Vintage: mill stone, outdoor decorations, toy metal truck, Mercury kids wagon. LOTS MORE!!!

Multi Family Indoor Garage Sale: Jun 1-2, 8a-6p, 14005 Aquilla, Burton. Crafting, sewing machines, clothes, furniture, household, jack posts, electric panels, organ. MAKE AN OFFER TAG SALE: Everything must go. Name your price on hundreds of items. May 30-31, Jun 1, 10a-4p. 7626 Clay St, Thompson.

HUGE Estate/Yard/Garage/Barn sale: May 30, 31, 9a-7p, June 1-2. 9a-5p. Multi family, buildings, tents, food!8720 Euclid-Chardon Rd., Kirtland (Next to Lake FarmPark).

HELP WANTED

Help with yard maintenance. Good pay. Chardon area. Call 440-226-6053.

Yard Work: must be able to use lawn equipment and have own transportation. Flexible days and hours. 440729-1158.

PETS & ANIMALS

Sammy needs an indoor home! Large, handsome, black & white 6-yr old cat. Very sweet. Loves being petted & brushed. Neutered, vaccinated. Rebecca 440321-2485.

MISCELLANEOUS

FREE fact: marijuana causes anxiety, depression and possible psychosis! Warn young people to not even try it.

REAL ESTATE

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

RENTAL WANTED

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

SERVICES

Taxi Service: 4 passengers only, for cleaning crews, short and long trips. Contact Lisa at 440-708-4835. Joe Eicher doing roofing, siding, remodeling, cleanout houses, we do most anything. Call between 8a-4p, 440-813-4272. No answer, leave message.

Experienced Housekeeper: will help clean, do laundry, and more, in Geauga county. 440-313-1804. Albert’s complete tree service, land clearing, firewood, excavation and sewer work. 440-687-5404.

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

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

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

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

WANTED

Wanted: a used wheelchair in good to fair condition. Call 440-636-3601.

WANTED TO BUY

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

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.

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

Page 8 Wednesday, May 29, 2024 Middlefield Post
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