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LORAIN COUNTY
AMHERST NEWS-TIMES
Thursday, April 11, 2019
BULLETIN BOARD
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OBERLIN NEWS-TRIBUNE
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WELLINGTON ENTERPRISE
www.lcnewspapers.com
Volume 6, Issue 15
APRIL IS LCCC MONTH
Thursday, April 11 • OBERLIN: The Oberlin Public Library board of trustees will meet at 5 p.m. on Thursday, April 11 at the library. The meeting is open to the public. • AMHERST: A spring flowers paper cut art workshop will be presented at 7 p.m. on Thursday, April 11 at the Amherst Public Library. Absolutely no experience is necessary to create a one-of-a-kind piece of framed artwork using just paper cutouts, glue, and markers. Registration is required for this program. All supplies will be provided for registered attendees. • HENRIETTA TWP.: “A Night of One-Acts” will be presented at 7 p.m. on Thursday, April 11 at the Firelands High School gymnasium. This free production will be composed of three one-act plays featuring high school students. The first will be “The 9 Worst Breakups of All Time,” featuring on relationships-gone-bad from the Cro-Magnon era to the Civil War to modern day. The second will be “10 Reasons You Should Have Stayed Home Sick Today” — a tour of high school’s everyday horrors from the dreaded surprise test to the battle for a bus seat. The third will be “Oz,” which will take the audience to a world over the rainbow where the yellow brick road has been sold to foreign investors after a financial meltdown. • OBERLIN: The Low-Vision Support Group will meet at 4 p.m. on Thursday, April 11 at Kendal at Oberlin’s Green Room for the audio presentation “Learning to Live with Low Vision.” All are welcome. • OBERLIN: “Conversations on Elusive Utopia” will be the topic of a Peace Potluck on Thursday, April 11 at Peace Community Church, 44 East Lorain St. Dinner will start at 6 p.m. At 7 p.m., Carol Lasser and Gary Kornblith will lead a discussion based on their recently published book, “Elusive Utopia: The Struggle for Racial Equality in Oberlin, Ohio.” Be sure to take food to share for the supper if you can. Parking and accessible entrance are located behind the church. • OBERLIN: NAACP Branch 3196 will meet at 6 p.m. on Thursday, April 11 at the Oberlin Public Library. The executive committee will meet an hour earlier. The agenda includes preparation for the “Confronting Hate and Creating Community” conference in Elyria at the end of the month, and continuing discussion of advocacy on behalf of public education and other priorities of the national organization. BULLETIN BOARD PAGE A3
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LCCC trustee Michael Sherman, trustee Margarita Quinones, student A.J. Ramos, community outreach adviser Ken Glynn, trustee Teresa Gardner, county commissioner Lori Kokoski, student Sherry Washington, student Noah Entenok, college president Marcia Ballinger, commissioner Matt Lundy, and commissioner Sharon Sweda.
Commissioners celebrate college Lorain County commissioners declared April to be Lorain County Community College Month last Wednesday, presenting college president Marcia Ballinger with a plaque. “For more than five decades, Lorain County Community College has been empowering the community by playing a vital role in preparing residents and local employers for the future. The college is a major force in our region and we felt it was important to recognize the significant contributions LCCC has made to our community at the local level through this designation” said commisioner Matt Lundy. Since 1963, one in four Lorain County residents have taken
classes at LCCC and more than 36,000 have earned degrees. A recent focus on expanding high school dual enrollment through College Credit Plus has led to 43 percent of Lorain County high school seniors graduating with LCCC college credits, saving families $5.5 million in tuition during 2018. “In addition to their educational offerings, the college enhances life for everyone in the county through the vibrant programs and events offered at LCCC’s Stocker Arts Center, Spitzer Conference Center, and the Norton Culinary Arts Center,” said commissioner Lori Kokoski. The college has adapted to changing times, now offering
Ohio’s first applied bachelor of science degree in microelectronic manufacturing, approved by the Higher Learning Commission just last year. LCCC also plans to unveil new associate degree programs for the Industrial Internet of Things and Blockchain as well as certificates focused on cloud computing and data analytics this year. “Lorain County Community College is always on the forefront of what is happening not only in our community, but regionally and nationally – and they adapt their programs to best prepare our residents for the future and for good jobs,” said commissioner APRIL PAGE A2
Watts: It’s never too late to learn The year before she turned 50 — and after 14 years as a stay-athome mom — Tabitha Watts decided it was time do something for herself, something that would make her life and the lives of her family better. She enrolled as a student at Lorain County Community College’s Wellington Center. It is Watts’ first college experience. She had spent her years since high school raising her family with her husband of 31 years, Mark.
They had three children and, after nine years fostering a number of children, they adopted four girls, one of whom has a developmental disability. After more than a decade as a full-time mom and caretaker to her elderly mother-in-law, and after a difficult period in her life, Watts wanted to make a change. With just two children still at home, she got a job as a cashier at Village Market, both to get out of the house and to help fund the education she
WATTS was now determined to seek. Two weeks later, she began classes at LCCC’s Wellington Center, a decision that she said will ultimately transform her
life. And there was no hesitation about what she wanted to study and where she wanted her education to take her. “I come from a long line of caretakers and have spent much of my life taking care of others,” she said. “I wanted to do something that would help people, so social work seemed like a natural career goal for me.” LCCC has given Watts the opportunity to see STUDENT PAGE A2
INSIDE Amherst
Oberlin
Wellington
Emergency deal gives township fire coverage
First Church seeks $1.4M for historical renovations
Traveling Vietnam tribute wall coming this summer
OBITUARIES A2 • CROSSWORD B3 • CLASSIFIEDS C4
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Thursday, April 11, 2019
Lorain County Community Guide
OBITUARIES Gregory D. Brant Gregory Douglas “Greg” Brant, 45, of Grafton, died Wednesday, April 3, 2019, at home. He was born on Dec. 4, 1973, and lived in the Wellington area most of his life. Greg was a loving dad who enjoyed spending time with family and friends and always had a smile for everyone. He also enjoyed fishing, listening to music, and watching kung fu movies. Greg was known for his joking personality and his generosity. He is survived by his parents, Mark and Judy Sheldon; fiance, Lisa Smith; children, Chaz and Jenetta; siblings Lori Gilles (Robert), Tracy Brant, Scott Brant (Nicole), Jared Sheldon; and several nieces and nephews. Services were held Saturday, April 6 at Norton-Eastman Funeral Home, Wellington. Expressions of sympathy and online condolences may be expressed at www.norton-eastmanfuneralhome.com.
Peggy Lou Reed Peggy Lou Reed, 91, of Wellington, died April 7, 2019, at New Life Hospice in Lorain. She was born in New London to Harold and Dorothy (nee Shipman) Norton and was a lifelong resident of Wellington, graduating from Wellington High School in 1946. Peggy worked for the American Greetings company as well as for Rockwell and Cleveland Still. She was a member of the Order of the Eastern Star. Peggy was a loving mother, grandmother, and great-grandmother and cherished time with her family. She will be remembered as a strong woman to the end. Survivors include her sons, David (Debbie) Reed of Wadsworth and Douglas (Linda) Reed of Grafton; grandchildren Kelly, Wendi, Adrienne, and Eric; great-grandchildren Tiger Lilly, Lee, Reed, and Adelynne; and her siblings, Joan Whitney and Harold Norton, both of Wellington. Peggy was preceded in death by her husband, William; granddaughter, Cassandra Reed; and siblings Robert Norton, Dorothy Louise Sutliff, Dan Norton, and William Norton. Friends and family will gather on Friday, April 12 at 11 a.m. at Greenwood Cemetery, Wellington, for a graveside service. The family would like to extend a thank you to the staff of Preferred Care for the compassion they gave to their mother. In lieu of flowers, donations may be directed to New Life Hospice, 3500 Kolbe Rd, Lorain, 44053. Expressions of sympathy may be shared online at www.norton-eastmanfuneralhome.com.
Marjorie E. Spangler Marjorie Elizabeth Spangler (nee Strauss), 85, of Amherst, passed away Friday, April 6, 2019, at New Life Hospice following a lengthy illness. Services were held Wednesday, April 10 at Hempel Funeral Home, Amherst. Burial was at Ridge Hill Memorial Park, Amherst Township.
Phillip R. Hicks Phillip R. Hicks, 66, of Henrietta Township, passed away Thursday, April 4, 2019, at home. Friends may call Thursday, April 11 from 5-8 p.m. at Hempel Funeral Home, 373 Cleveland Ave., Amherst. A Mass will be held Friday at 11 a.m. at Nativity Blessed Virgin Mary Catholic Church, 333 South St., South Amherst.
APRIL
FROM A1 Sharon Sweda. By 2025, about 65 percent of jobs will require a post-secondary credential, Ballinger said. LCCC’s mission is to ensure local students are ready to compete in a changing job market, she said. Commissioners also announced an additional investment of $125,000 to the LCCC Foundation’s Health and Safety Scholarship and the “Be Green” Scholarship to support the more than 77 percent of LCCC students who require financial assistance in order to attend college.
See county's new voting machines The Lorain County Board of Elections will host five demonstrations of its new voting machines before the May 7 primary election. These new voting machines replace the TSX touch screen system that was in use here since 2005. About half of local voters will see the new system in May, since only about half of the polls in Lorain County will have prima-
ries or ballot questions. The entire county will vote on the new system in the November general election. The public is welcome to see the new voting machines on the following dates: • Monday, April 15 from 3-7 p.m. at the Lorain Public Library Main Branch, 351 West 6th St., second floor. • Tuesday, April 16 from 3-7 p.m. at the North Ridgeville
Branch Library, 35700 Bainbridge Rd. • Tuesday, April 23 from 1-7 p.m. at the Oberlin Public Library, 65 South Main St. • Thursday, April 25 from noon to 7 p.m. at the Elyria Administration Building, 226 Middle Ave., commissioners’ hearing room on the fourth floor. • Tuesday, April 30 from 3-7 p.m. at Amherst VFW Post 1662, 165 Cleveland Ave.
LCCC and CSU announce dual-enrollment Lorain County Community College students planning to transfer to Cleveland State University will soon benefit from a new streamlined pathway to earning a four-year degree. The University Partnership Express CSU initiative was announced March 6, providing dual admission to both institutions. LCCC students in the program will receive a CSU Vikings ID and can take advantage of special events, computer labs, and recreational facilities at both schools. They'll take a first-year experience course at LCCC taught by a CSU graduate. Those in the program also can take up to three classes at CSU while attending LCCC and collaborative advising will be provided by both institutions. High school students can get a head start on this path by taking College Credit Plus courses from LCCC, saving even more time and money in pursuit of a fouryear degree. “Cleveland State University was one of our founding partners when we launched the University Partnership in 1995, making it even more meaningful that today we enhanced our partnership
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Cleveland State University president Harlan Sands and Lorain County Community College president Marcia Ballinger exchange sweatshirts after announcing a new partnership. with CSU to create this unique transfer experience for LCCC students,” said Marcia Ballinger, president of Lorain County Community College. “Together, LCCC and CSU are leveraging the best of both institutions to offer students a direct, precise path to a bachelor’s degree, while also engaging in the exceptional experiences available on both campuses.” CSU is the number one transfer destination for LCCC students.
From 1999 to 2018, 542 students earned a bachelor’s degree from CSU through LCCC’s University Partnership program. CSU continues to offer six bachelor’s degree programs through the University Partnership. UP Express CSU will provide additional opportunities for students and help to increase educational attainment both within Lorain and Cuyahoga counties, further strengthening the region’s economy with knowledgeable, prepared talent.
responsibilities. For Watts, the LCCC experience has been more fun — and not as difficult — as she imagined. ‘It’s been a very good start,” she said. “Our environment is easy and non-intimidating to navigate,” said Amy Szmania, coordinator of the Wellington Center. “We have many adult students like Tabitha who are starting college for the first time, as well as students who have come from home schooling and smaller high school settings. For all of them, Wellington is a great and accessible place to learn to navigate the higher education system.” The Wellington Center, which just celebrated its 10th anniversary, provides a place where students from smaller high schools in the region can take College Credit Plus courses, allowing them to earn an associate degree while still in high school, giving them a head start both educationally and financially. Cindy Kushner, director of school and community partnerships at LCCC, said the Wellington Center allows a diverse group of students to get a start in a comfortable environment, while helping students who, unlike Watts, haven’t identified their career goals. “We have a variety of tools to help new students, or those
thinking about starting classes, find their passion and become knowledgeable about high-demand career options in our community and region,” she said. “Advisers at Wellington then help them plan their schedules, and we can help with filing the financial aid application, too. It’s a full-service center.” Watts anticipates completing her associate degree this spring and her bachelor’s degree in 2021. After finishing the spring 2018 semester, she’ll now take most of her classes in Elyria. “I’ve found I really like taking classes. English composition and introduction to social work have been favorites. And it’s been fun to compare notes with my 21-year-old son, who is also in college,” she said. Watts, who became a firsttime grandmother in June, said she’s also looking forward to earning her degrees from LCCC and starting a new career. “My husband will be close to retirement when I finish, so I’m hoping he’ll have a chance to stay home while I go out and do work that’s fulfilling to me and helps other people,” she said.
STUDENT
FROM A1 first-hand what social workers do every day and just how deeply their work affects the lives of their clients and their families. “As I sometimes struggled to care for my mother-in-law and my daughter and to cope with some of the issues my other children had, I saw how much it helped them to connect to the services they needed, including social workers,” she said. “I want to be one of those people who goes out into the community to help others, a medical social worker or in community family assistance.” Watts, who began classes at the LCCC Wellington Center in Fall 2016, is now nearly two years into her journey toward a bachelor’s degree in social work. First she is taking the classes she needs to earn an associate of applied science degree in human services. Although it had been more than 30 years since Watts, as a high school student, sat in a classroom, LCCC made it easy to get started. She spoke with an adviser about her educational and career goals and the adviser explained her options and helped her make choices. Watts took the placement assessment and soon after was an active student, balancing an average of three classes a semester with part-time work and family
This story was provided by Lorain County Community College and has been edited for length and style.
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POSTMASTER: Send address changes to Lorain County Community Guide, 144 South Main St., Cadiz, OH 43907. How can I submit a news item? News should be sent to news@lcnews papers.com no later than 10 a.m. each Tuesday. We publish submissions on a space-available basis. We reserve the right to hold or reject any submission. We also reserve the right to edit all submissions.
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Thursday, April 11, 2019
Lorain County Community Guide
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BULLETIN BOARD FROM A1 • OBERLIN: A Convocation Series event with David Sheff and Nic Sheff will be held at 7:30 p.m. on Thursday, April 11 at Finney Chapel, 90 North Professor St. Nic Sheff got drunk for the first time at age 11. In the years that followed, he smoked pot regularly, did cocaine and ecstasy, and developed addictions to methamphetamines and heroin. His father, a renowned journalist who has written for The New York Times, Wired, Fortune, and Rolling Stone, helped his son battle and overcome his addictions. Their is the story portrayed in the 2018 film “Beautiful Boy,” produced by Amazon Studios and adapted from David Sheff’s book of the same title. Nic Sheff is a writer for the Netflix series “13 Reasons Why” and the AMC crime drama “The Killing.” He travels the country speaking about substance abuse, mental health, bipolar disorder. and recovery. The event is free; no tickets are required. A book signing will follow the convocation. The Oberlin Bookstore will have books for sale in the lobby; cash only.
April 11-13 • OBERLIN: The Spring Back Dance Showcase will be held at 8 p.m. on April 11, 12, and 13 at the Warner Main Space, 30 North Professor St. Presented each year, Spring Back showcases student and sometimes faculty choreography. The cost is $5.
April 11-14 • OBERLIN: “Body of Bourne” will be presented by Oberlin Theater at 7:30 p.m. on April 11, 12, and 13 and at 2 p.m. on April 14 at the Irene and Alan Wurtzel Theater, 67 North Main St. Through dramatized scenes, letters, and essays, “Body of Bourne” presents the biography of renowned writer and World War I pacifist Randolph Bourne, whose short but meaningful life was forever affected by his physical disabilities. From his timid childhood to his ascent as an impassioned social critic, Bourne’s journey takes him around the world, overcoming physical obstacles through his intellect and his friends.
April 11 and 25 • WELLINGTON: The Wellington Writers Group will meet from 6-7:30 p.m. on Thursdays, April 11 and 25 at the Herrick Memorial Library. Take samples of your writing to share with the group. New members are welcome. Registration is encouraged. To register, call the library at 440-647-2120.
Friday, April 12 • AMHERST: A toddler playtime will be held from 10:30-11:30 a.m. on Friday, April 12 at the Amherst Public Library. No registration is required. • OBERLIN: A legislative luncheon with Ohio Rep. Joe Miller (D-Amherst) will be held at noon on Friday, April 12 at the Fox and Fell Dining Room at Kendal at Oberlin. Miller will discuss his stances on legislation moving through the Ohio Statehouse and will answer questions. The event is sponsored by the League of Women
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The Lorain County Community Guide bulletin board is for local nonprofit and not-for-profit events. Items are published on a space-available basis and will be edited for news style, length, and clarity. Send your items to news@lcnewspapers.com. Voters Oberlin Area. Tickets can be purchased at www.lwvoberlinarea.org. • OBERLIN: A fish fry will be held from noon to 6 p.m. on Friday, April 12 at Rust United Methodist Church, 128 Groveland St. Dinners are $10. Get catfish or ocean perch, coleslaw or french fries, bread, and dessert. Help yourself to a free snack while you wait. Second snacks will be available for $1. Green flowers will be for sale by the FOR committee. For more information, call Rust UMC at 440-7744905.
April 12 and 13 • AMHERST: An Amherst Historical Society long barn sale will be held from 8 a.m. to 3 p.m. on Friday, April 12 and Saturday, April 13 at the Sandstone Village, 763 Milan Ave. Sale items of interest include baked goods, furniture, vintage tools, glassware, puses, hats, accessories, dolls, toys, games, puzzles, books, bed linens, and small kitchen appliances. Proceeds go toward the further development of the historical village. • SULLIVAN: A spring rummage sale and bake sale will be held from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. on Friday, April 12 and 9 a.m. to noon on Saturday, April 13 at Sullivan First Congregational Church, 503 Rt. 224. Donations will be accepted during the mornings from Monday to Thursday. No televisions or other electronics.
Saturday, April 13 • AMHERST: An Easter egg hunt will be held at 11 a.m. on Saturday, April 13 at Sprenger Health Care’s Amherst Manor, 175 North Lake St. The event is for ages 12 and under. Be sure to take your own basket to collect eggs. Shuttle parking is available at 449 North Lake St. • WELLINGTON: The U.S. Coast Guard Auxiliary Lorain Flotilla 6-4 will hold a one-day OBEC-approved safe boating class from 8:30 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. on Saturday, April 13 at the Lorain County Metro Parks Wellington Nature Center, 535 Jones Rd. The class fee of $30 includes all materials, refreshments, and lunch. Preregistration is required by March 30. The course, which will be conducted by members of Lorain Flotilla 6-4 and the Ohio Division of Watercraft, will cover fundamentals of safe boating, state-required equipment, boat operation laws, navigation rules of the road, basic safety and risk management, and aids to navigation. Classes are enhanced with videos, slides, overheads, handouts, and other visual aids. In Ohio, mandatory boater education is required for a boat operator born on or after Jan. 1, 1982. This course fills that requirement. For more information or to sign up, contact Steve Magyar at Pier 58 Marine, 440-774-4338 or steve@pier58.com. • OBERLIN: The Oberlin Chamber Orchestra will perform at 7:30 p.m. on Saturday, April 13 at Finney Chapel, 90 North Professor St. Violinist and 2018-2019 Senior Concerto Competition winner Xinyuan Wang will take the stage with conductor Raphael Jimenez and the ensemble in Sibelius’ “Violin Concerto in D Minor.” The evening will conclude with Ravel’s “Mother Goose Suite.” The concert is free. • WELLINGTON: “Death of a Dallas Dynasty,” a murder mystery and dinner, will be presented at 6 p.m. on Saturday, April 13 at First Congregational Church, 140 South Main St. Dinner will be by Lobo’s Pasta Concessions. The menu includes chicken parmesan, meatballs, cavatelli and sauce, salad, garlic bread, dessert, and beverage. Tickets are $20 each and can be reserved by calling 440-647-3308. • AMHERST: A string art workshop to benefit the Amherst Quarterback Club will be held from 1-4 p.m. on Saturday, April 13 at the Steele High School field house. Christine Agostinelli of HeartStrings by Christine will show you how to create a string art piece to take home. The cost is $40; preregistration and a $5 nonrefundable deposit are required. A portion of each ticket sale will go to support
the Quarterback Club. To register, contact club president Christa Kraft at 440-752-0591 or amherstqbclub@gmail. com. • OBERLIN: Greater Oberlin Community Voices will meet at 10:15 a.m. on Saturday, April 13 at the Oberlin Public Library. It is a monthly forum for open civil, civic conversation about concerns and situations affecting groups of residents, large and small, in the Oberlin area. Among the topics on April 13 will be rezonings underway in Oberlin, as well as the pros and cons of the proposal before city council to adopt a new institutional zoning category. • WELLINGTON: The 8th Annual Wellington Dukes Pride Day Carnival will be held from 9 a.m. to noon on Saturday, April 13 at Wellington High School, 629 North Main St. A free breakfast, sponsored by Main Street Wellington, will be served in the cafeteria from 8-11 a.m. This year’s carnival will feature a bounce house, petting zoo, and blood drive. In all, 47 organizations will provide games. There is no cost to have a booth; for information, call Beth Bric at 440-647-4286. All proceeds will be donated to Well-Help to provide Wellington students who receive free breakfasts and lunches during the school months with food during the summer. Premier sponsors include Forest City Technologies and Columbia Gas. The free carnival is supported by many other individuals, organizations, businesses, and churches. • OBERLIN: The Oberlin chapter of Citizens’ Climate Lobby will meet from 1-3 p.m. on Saturday, April 13 at the Oberlin Public Library. The guest speaker via video conference will be the Rev. Susan Hendershot of Interfaith Power and Light, speaking about faithful stewardship of creation. The group will discuss actions members can take to advance current bipartisan climate legislation in Congress. For more information, go to www.citizensclimatelobby.org, write to jwsabin@gmail.com, or call John Sabin at 440-574-1570. All are welcome.
Sunday, April 14 • OBERLIN: The Music at the Meeting House concert series will welcome the Daly Brass Quintet at 4 p.m. on Sunday, April 14 at the First Church in Oberlin UCC, 106 North Main St. This ensemble of Oberlin Conservatory students will perform a wide range of music, from Renaissance to jazz. All Music at the Meeting House concerts are free and open to the public. • OBERLIN: Learn about a type of Japanese ceramics called Satsuma ware and its intricate decoration during a Sunday Object Talk at 2 p.m. on April 14 at the Allen Memorial Art Museum, 87 North Main St. The speaker will be Oberlin College student Emma Larson. • OBERLIN: A dinner and concert feature international jazz and neo-soul artist Chantae Cann will be held Saturday, April 13 at Oberlin First United Methodist Church, 45 South Professor St. Dinner will be served at 5:30 p.m. and the concert will start at 7 p.m. Proceeds benefit local missions. For tickets, call 440-775-1178. • OBERLIN: A Citizen Science Day Wikipedia Edit-a-Thon will be held from 12:30-3 p.m. on Sunday, April 14 at the Oberlin Science Center library, 119 Woodland Dr. Be a citizen scientist as you help improve Wikipedia articles that relate to science topics. No experience necessary. Curiosity is a must. Drop in anytime and stay as long as you like. Instruction will be provided, led by Alison Ricker. Register via email to aricker@oberlin.edu.
Monday, April 15 • OBERLIN: “Taxation Without Representation Is Tyranny” will be presented at 7:15 p.m. on Monday, April 15 at Kendal at Oberlin’s Heiser Auditorium. Kendal at Oberlin resident Larry Mirel will speak. He was a lawyer in Washington, D.C., and will talk about constitutional, legal, and political forces that have kept D.C. residents second-class citizens for more than 200 years. • OBERLIN: “An Evening with Susan Orlean” will be presented from 4:30-6 p.m. on Monday, April 15 at Nancy Schrom Dye Lecture Hall, 119 Woodland St. Orlean is a New York Times bestselling author. Her latest work, “The Library Book,” explores the history, power, and future of libraries. A book signing will follow the talk. • OBERLIN: A Mercy Health Aixiliary collective goods fundraiser, formerly “Books Are Fun,” will be held from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. on Monday, April 15 in the Mercy Health Allen Hospital board room. MORE ON PAGE A4
EMAIL CONTACTS JASON HAWK: jason@lcnewspapers.com — Editor MANDY SALUK: mandy@lcnewspapers.com — Display advertising JONATHAN DELOZIER: jon@lcnewspapers.com — Reporter and photographer
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Thursday, April 11, 2019
Lorain County Community Guide
BULLETIN BOARD FROM A3
Tuesday, April 16
• OBERLIN A meeting of the Oberlin board of education that was originally scheduled for April 9 has been moved to 6 p.m. on Tuesday, April 16 at Oberlin High School, 281 North Pleasant St. • WELLINGTON: Make a special Ohio necklace at 5:30 p.m. on Tuesday, April 16 at the Herrick Memorial Library. The class for adults is free and all materials will be supplied. Space is limited. Register at the circulation desk or by calling 440647-2120. • AMHERST: A dine-to-donate event in support of the Firelands bands will be held from 11 a.m. to 11 p.m. on Tuesday, April 16 at Ziggy’s Pub & Restaurant, 193 Park Ave. When ordering, mention the Firelands Band Boosters and Ziggy’s will donate 15 percent of the bill. • OBERLIN: Violinist Sohyoung Lee will perform at 7:15 p.m. on Tuesday, April 16 at Kendal at Oberlin’s Heiser Auditorium. An artist diploma student at the Oberlin Conservatory of Music, Lee will perform music by Handel, Grief, and Wieniawski assisted by Yu Sakamoto on piano, Hannah Kim on cello, and Julian Grabarek on piano.
Wednesday, April 17 • OBERLIN: The Spring Quartet will perform at 7:30 p.m. on Wednesday, April 17 at Finney Chapel, 90 North Professor St. Drummer Jack DeJohnette, saxophonist Joe Lovano, bassist and vocalist Esperanza Spalding, and pianist Leo Genovese span multiple generations and a universe of styles, laying claim to virtually every major accolade a jazz musician can garner. Tickets are $35 for the public; $30 for seniors, military, Oberlin College staff, faculty, and alumni; and $10 for students. Order at www.oberlin.edu/artsguide or by calling 800-371-0178. • OBERLIN: “Less Is More: A Haiku Workshop” will be offered at 7 p.m. on Wednesday, April 17 at the Oberlin Public Library. Led by Julie Warther, author of “What Was Here,” it will introduce contemporary English-language haiku, a deceptively simple poem that employs rich imagery, brevity, juxtaposition of two distinct parts, and an objective awareness of your surroundings. Registration is required. For information, call the library at 440-775-4790. The event is sponsored by the Friends of the Oberlin Public Library, The Oberlin Writer’s Group, the library, and The Bridge. • AMHERST: An evening of music and food to benefit Lorain County’s homeless veterans will be held Wednesday, April 17 at VFW Post 1662, 165 Cleveland Ave. Doors will open at 5 p.m. and a barbecue buffet dinner by Pogie’s will begin at 6 p.m. Tim Blake, Rick Keane, and other local singers and songwriters will take the stage. There will be raffles and a cash bar. The evening will be a benefit for Family and Community Services, Support Services for Veterans Families, which promotes housing stability among very low income veterans and their families who are homeless or transitioning to permanent housing. Tickets are $20 and can be purchased at www. pogiescatering.com or by calling 440-864-4654. • WELLINGTON: A free self-defense workshop
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will be held at 6 p.m. on Wednesday, April 17 at the LCCC Wellington Center, 151 Commerce Dr. Jeff Ellis, an eighth-degree black belt and self-defense expert with more than 45 years of experience, will lead guests in hands-on training and teach techniques to stop an attacker. No registration is required for this event. For more information, call the Wellington Center at 440-647-1776.
April 17 and 21 • WELLINGTON: “Amazing Love,” a live drama of the crucifixion, will be held at 7 p.m. on Wednesday, April 17 at Fellowship Church, 44777 State Rt. 18. The reenactment will be held outside, so be sure to take lawn chairs. Fellowship Church will reenact Holy Week in Jerusalem, starting with Palm Sunday and ending with the crucifixion of Jesus. “The Resurection” will be presented at 9 a.m. on Sunday, April 21 at the church.
Thursday, April 18 • OBERLIN: Indian musician Rajeev Taranth will perform at 8 p.m. on Thursday, April 18 at Finney Chapel, 90 North Professor St. Taranth is hailed as one of the world’s leading exponents of the sarod. The disciple of maestro Ali Akbar Khan masterfully brings the depth and rigor of the tradition of Hindustani classical music with an inspired imagination and emotional intensity to his work. Admission is $5 for the public or $2 with an Oberlin College ID. • OBERLIN: The Oberlin Brass Ensemble will perform at 7:30 p.m. on Thursday, April 18 at Warner Concert Hall, 77 West College St. Roland Pandolfi will lead the ensemble in movements from Handel’s “Water Music Suite,” a sonata by Gabrielli, Rimsky-Korsakov’s “Procession of the Nobles,” and selections from a new piece by Cody Gray. • OBERLIN: The Indigenous Peoples’ Day committee will meet at 6 p.m. on Thursday, April 18 at the Oberlin Public Library. There will be discussion of upcoming events and possibly election of officers, especially a treasurer to register the committee as a nonprofit and help achieve other goals. • OBERLIN: Members of the Oberlin Schools Endowment Fund will talk about their courtyard garden project and others at 7:15 p.m. on Thursday, April 18 at Kendal at Oberlin’s Heiser Auditorium. The Oberlin High School jazz club will provide entertainment. • NORTH RIDGEVILLE: The Women Business Owners Network will meet at 6 p.m. on Thursday, April 18 at Don Mould’s Plantation, 34837 Lorain Rd. Laura Walker of Don Mould’s Plantation will give a presentation on hydrangeas. The business spotlight will be on massage therapist Alise Excell. Be sure to take dinner. Also, take business cards and literature for an exchange. For reservations, contact Excell at 440-864-3279 or handzonhealing@yahoo.com. • OBERLIN: A Suzin L. Chocolatier fundraiser featuring Easter selections will be held by the Mercy Health Allen Auxiliary from 7 a.m. to 3 p.m. on Thursday, April 18 in the Mercy Health Allen Hospital lobby.
April 18 and 27 • OBERLIN: A workshop on a new Oberlin-focused genealogy database with more than 57,000 individuals will be held at 3 p.m. on Thursday, April 18 and again on Saturday, April 27 at the Oberlin Public Library, 65 South Main St. The 30-minute introductory training workshop, offered by the Oberlin Heritage Center, will focus on the Family Tree Maker database. It is free and open to anyone. If you have ancestors who lived in Oberlin or are researching Oberlin history, this file may be a big help to you. For more information, call 440-774-1700 or e-mail liz.schultz@oberlinheritage.org.
Friday, April 19 • OBERLIN: A gallery talk will be offered at 10:15 a.m. on Friday, April 19 at the Allen Memorial Art Museum, 87 North Main St. Andrea Gyorody, Ellen Johnson ’33 Assistant Curator of Modern and Contemporary Art,will focus on a work in the exhibition “The Body is the Map: Approaches to Land in the Americas After 1960.” Meet in the central gallery of the museum.
Saturday, April 20 • AMHERST: The Amherst Lions and Leo Clubs’ annual community Easter egg hunt will be held Saturday, April 20 at Maude Neiding Park. The Easter Bunny will arrive at 10:30 a.m. for pictures and the hunt will begin at 11 a.m. The hunt is for children 10 years old and under. There will be separate hunt areas for toddlers to age three, ages four to six, and ages seven to 10. Parking is limited. Be sure to arrive early or park in an alternate location. The Lions will also collect used, unwanted eyeglasses to help those who need them. • OBERLIN: A “Freedom’s Friends” docent training workshop will be held from 9 a.m. to noon on Saturday, April 20 at the Oberlin Heritage Center. Learn about Oberlin’s role in the history of abolition and the Underground Railroad and how to present it in the format of a 90-minute walking tour through historic neighborhoods surrounding downtown Oberlin. • OBERLIN: A free community hot meal will be served from 5-5:30 p.m. on Saturday, April 20 at Grace Lutheran Church, 310 West Lorain St. One and all are invited. No age limit.
Sunday, April 21 • ELYRIA: An Easter brunch will be held from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. on Sunday, April 21 at the Lorain County Community College Spitzer Conference Center, 1005 North Abbe Rd. The event will include a brunch menu, as well as photos with the Easter Bunny, cookie decorating, and an Easter egg hunt. To reserve seats, call 440366-4100 or visit www.lorainccc.edu/easter. Tickets are $30 for adults, $10 for children ages 12 and under, and free for children three and under.
Monday, April 22 • OBERLIN: An Earth Day potluck will be held at 5:30 p.m. on Monday, April 22 at Peace Community Church, 44 East Lorain St. At 7 p.m., Steve Mayer, professor of psychology and peace studies at Oberlin College, will discuss his recent book, “Transforming Psychological World Views to Confront Climate Change: A Clearer Vision, A Different Path.” Parking and accessibility is in the back of the church. • OBERLIN: Pianist Jenny Huang will perform at 7:15 p.m. on Monday, April 22 at Kendal at Oberlin’s Heiser Auditorium. Huang will share music by Mendelssohn, Beethoven, and Chopin. The concert is free and open to the public.
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INSIDE: LIONS EASTER EGG HUNT DETAILS • B3
AMHERST NEWS-TIMES THURSDAY, APRIL 11, 2019 • SERVING AMHERST SINCE 1919
Emergency fire deal in place for township
HOPPING INTO EASTER
JASON HAWK EDITOR
At the stroke of midnight last Sunday, a contract providing South Amherst fire coverage to the surrounding township expired. Less than 24 hours later, Amherst firefighters appeared before city council, ready to take on the job of protecting their neighbors. The city’s laddermen have for years responded to fires, crashes, chemical spills, and other safety threats in the portion of Amherst Township north of the Ohio Turnpike. South Amherst’s crews have protected the area south of the toll road. That all changed last week, when township trustees voted to walk away from its long-standing contract with the village. Trustee Dennis Abraham said South Amherst priced itself out of a renewal — officials there wanted to impose a 57 percent rate increase the first year, with more hikes following. Abraham said he and fellow trustees David Urig and Neil Lynch have been thinking about ending their relationship with the village fire department for years. The added cost was the proverbial straw that broke the camel’s back. Amherst also raised rates on the township back in January when council adopted a new contract. A new deal was struck for $11,000 per quarter, $500 per pumping unit sent on each call, and $28 per hour for each firefighter responding. That did sit well with the township. Fire chief Jim Wilhelm explained that it had been more than 20 years since a rate increase had been voted through. Council unanimously pushed through an emergency vote following a police and fire committee
Photos by Jonathan Delozier | Amherst News-Times
The Easter Bunny paid a visit to the Amherst Steele cross country team and area kids on Sunday for a pancake breakfast. Attendees also enjoyed gift basket raffles, face painting, and fresh treats in the school cafeteria. ABOVE: Jade and Zoe Glatz says hello to the Easter Bunny. BELOW: Steele cross country runners say thank you to their furry friend.
FIRE DEAL PAGE B2
OPEN FRIDAY APRIL 12
THE STRESS GENERATION
How today’s kids are dealing with anxiety JASON HAWK EDITOR
You wake up in the middle of the night and can’t get back to sleep. Your head hurts. Your stomach hurts. Your shoulders hurt. You grind your teeth; your jaw locks up. You don’t feel like talking. You just want to be left alone. The hobbies you should love, your Jason Hawk | favorite foods, your job — none Amherst News-Times of it holds any interest. If you’ve ever been ground Clinical counselor Penny down by stress, anxiety, or Morgan says some children depression, you know the sympdeal with overwhelming anxiety and depression. toms all too well.
Now imagine a child dealing with it. “As the years go by, I see more and more kids stressed out,” said Penny Morgan of Firelands Counseling and Recovery. Before a small crowd of concerned parents April 4 at Nord Middle School, she spoke about children’s brain health. What’s the scope of the problem? Panic attacks and obsessive compulsive disorders often are seen by age 10. Anxiety is sometimes misdiagnosed as ADHD. In the United States, an estimated 1.8 million children have anxiety disorders. ANXIETY PAGE B2
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Page B2
Amherst News-Times
Thursday, April 11, 2019
AN INSIDE LOOK
Cairns sentencing
No jail time was given to Kevin Cairns, the Amherst man who held his wife at gunpoint and fired off shots inside their Rome Beauty Drive home in early 2017. He was sentenced April 1 to three years community control, contingent on staying employed and completing an anger management or domestic violent program. He may not use drugs or alcohol, leave the state without written permission, and have no contact with his victim. In addition, Cairns cannot step foot in Lorain County unless for work. Breach of the terms of his sentencing will result in 36 months imprisonment at the Lorain Correctional Institution. Cairns pleaded guilty to felony abduction and lesser counts of domestic violence and using weapons while intoxicated. Police said they were sent by 911 to Cairns' Apple Orchard home because he was drunk and threatening to kill his wife. He surrendered after a 20-minute standoff, according to Sgt. Mike Murphy.
Staff members are getting a close-up view of what the inside of the new Powers Elementary School on South Lake Street looks like. Construction is on target for substantive completion this fall and the school will open in January 2020.
POLICE REPORTS
CHURCH DIRECTORY
• April 1 at 2:05 p.m.: Gabrielle Richards, 23, of Lorain, was charged with petty theft and possession of criminal tools following a complaint at Target on Oak Point Road. • April 1 at 11:49 p.m.: Mathew Hiner, 34, of Amherst, was charged with possession of drug paraphernalia. • April 2 at 8:55 a.m.: Officers responded to Subway on Rt. 58 due to an argument between a young couple. • April 3, time undisclosed by police: A man said he received unwanted text messages from his father and made a harassment complaint. • April 3 at 12:09 a.m.: Kane Haponek, 19, of Lorain, was charged with possession of marijuana and expired registration. • April 3 at 10:38 a.m.: Selena Feliciano, 21, of Lorain, was arrested on a warrant through the Amherst police department for failure to appear for pretrial. The original charge was driving under suspension. • April 3 at 3:45 p.m.: An administrator at Amherst Junior High informed police a 13-year-old student made a comment that could have been construed as a threat. Police determined nothing criminal took place. • April 3 at 7:59 p.m.: Officers responded to a domestic dispute on Elyria Avenue. There was no physical altercation or threat of violence. • April 4 at 10:12 p.m.: A bed frame and mattress were reported stolen from a Maple Avenue home. • April 5 at 1:40 a.m.: Police responded to RC's Brewhouse on Church Street, where a man appeared to be under the influence of alcohol or drugs. A man was taken to Mercy Health Lorain Hospital by ambulance. • April 7 at 1:19 a.m.: Brian Young was charged with marked lanes, weaving, and operating a vehicle while impaired. • April 7 at 9:27 a.m.: A mountain bike was reported stolen. Editor’s note: Though charged, defendants are innocent until proven guilty in a court of law.
FIRE DEAL
FROM B1 meeting. It put in place a temporary contract to provide fire coverage to the township while mayor Mark Costilow’s administration negotiated a comprehensive deal with trustees. “We’re on a gentleman’s handshake at this point to provide services. I’d really like to get this under contract,” Costilow said. While important, the vote was also largely symbolic. Even without a contract, Amherst firefighters would have responded to fires within the township because of mutual aid agreements.
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All Amherst-area churches are invited to post service times in the News-Times. Send your listing to us via email at news@lcnewspapers.com. • St. Paul Lutheran Church, 115 Central Dr., has traditional worship services each Sunday at 8:30 a.m. and informal services at 11 a.m. Sunday school and Bible study begin at 9:45 a.m. Nursery care is available during worship services and Bible study. Community prayer box and dog station available. • Good Shepherd Baptist Church, 1100 Cleveland Ave., has Sunday school at 9:45 a.m. and worship services at 11 a.m. each Sunday. Bible study for all ages is at 9:45 a.m. on Sundays. Bible class is at 6:30 p.m. on Wednesdays. • Faith Baptist Church, 440 North Lake St., has Sunday school for all ages at 9:30 a.m. and worship service at 10:45 a.m. Nursery care is available during both. Ablaze Youth Group meets at 6 p.m. on Wednesdays. • Family Fellowship, 780 Cooper Foster Park Rd., has Sunday services at 9 a.m. and 11 a.m. • New Beginnings Church of Christ, 591 Washington St., has Bible classes for all ages at 9:30 a.m. and worship at 10:30 a.m. on Sundays. A training room class for ages two to four and junior worship for kindergarten through fifth grade is available. • St. John’s United Church of Christ, 204 Leonard St., South Amherst, has worship at 9 a.m. each Sunday. Sunday school for children is held during the service. • Freedom House, 1240 Park
Ave., has services at 10:30 a.m. on Sundays and 7 p.m. on Thursdays. Prayer meetings are held at noon on Wednesdays. • Amherst Church of the Nazarene, 210 Cooper Foster Park Rd., has Bible classes for all ages at 9:30 a.m. and worship at 10:30 a.m. on Sundays. A prayer service is held at 7 p.m. on Wednesdays. Next Step services are held at 6 p.m. on Saturdays. • Trinity Evangelical Free Church, 46485 Middle Ridge Rd., has a traditional Sunday worship service at 9 a.m. and a contemporary service at 10:45 a.m. There is children’s programming during both services. Grades six to 12 meet at 9 a.m. only. Summit (young adults ages 18 to 30) meets from 7-9 p.m. on Thursdays at the church. • Eversprings Missionary Baptist Church, 49536 Middle Ridge Rd., has Sunday school at 10 a.m., Sunday worship at 11 a.m., and Sunday evening services at 6 p.m. Wednesday services are at 6 p.m. • Heritage Presbyterian Church, 515 North Leavitt Rd., has Sunday service at 10:30 a.m. • South Amherst First United Methodist Church, 201 West Main St., offers a contemporary worship service at 10:30 a.m. each Sunday. • Elyria Zion United Methodist Church, 43720 Telegraph Rd., Amherst Township, offers a traditional service at 9 a.m. each Sunday. • Cornerstone Community Church, 111 South Lake St., has Sunday service at 10:30 a.m. Wednesday service is at 6:30 p.m. • St. Joseph Catholic Church, 200 St. Joseph Dr., has Mass-
es at 4 p.m Saturdays (St. Joseph Church, Amherst); 5:30 p.m. Saturdays (Nativity of the Blessed Virgin Mary, South Amherst); 8:30 a.m., 11 a.m., and 5 p.m. Sundays (St. Joseph); 9 a.m. Mondays (St. Joseph); 8 a.m. Tuesdays (Nativity); 7 p.m. Thursdays (St. Joseph); and 9 a.m. Fridays (St. Joseph). • Community Congregational United Church of Christ, 379 South Main St., has Sunday worship and Sunday school for ages three and up at 10 a.m. Nursery care is provided for those three and under. Communion is offered the first Sunday of every month. • St. Peter’s United Church of Christ, 582 Church St., has Sunday worship service and church school at 10 a.m. • A Fresh Wind Church, 1115 Milan Ave., has Sunday worship service at 10 a.m. and Solomon’s Porch youth ministry at 6 p.m. • Amherst United Methodist Church, 396 Park Ave., has Sunday worship at 10:30 a.m. For information, call 440-988-8330 or visit www.amherstchurches. org. • Old Stone Evangelical Church, 553 South Main St., has adult Sunday school at 9:30 a.m. and worship at 10:30 a.m. Sundays. A free community supper is offered from 5-7 p.m. the second Wednesday of each month. A free community breakfast is served from 8:30-10:30 a.m. the second Saturday of each month. Carry-outs are available at either meal. • Brownhelm United Church of Christ, 2144 North Ridge Rd., worships each Sunday at 11 a.m. Sunday school for children is held during the service.
mood taper off. There are clear risk factors for anxiety disorders and depression: family instability, living through traumatic experiences, changing homes or schools often, and heredity. “There’s definitely a biological component to mental health issues. If I have a lot of anxiety, I can probably find somebody in my family who has those symptoms as well,” Morgan said. What can you do to limit the risk? You can help your children build mental resiliency, which is a sense they can overcome life’s challenges — that even if things go wrong, they can pick themselves up and move forward. “Whenever something happens, we look at it as a lesson. And we can use those lessons to move over the next bump in the road,” said Morgan. Some protective factors are common sense. Kids who have supportive families, good self-esteem, regular school attendance, good academic performance, problem-solving skills, and who feel connected to their community are less likely to have anxiety and depression. Building meaningful connections with kids is the best step you can take to prevent anxiety. Giving your child 20 or 30
minutes of undivided attention is far more helpful than spending hours on end in the same room but on separate screens, said Morgan. Stretching, yoga, laughing, listening to calming music, having close friends who are supportive — all are valuable in the fight for brain health. Morgan’s advice for parents: Allow your kids to make choices. That means you have to know what they are capable of handling, and they need to understand that privileges are earned with demonstrated responsibility. Listen to your kids in a nonjudgmental way and validate their feelings, Morgan said. Ask questions and listen to the answers. And maybe most importantly, let your kids know it’s OK to have stress and anxiety — that it’s about managing your stress, not eliminating it. “You can’t avoid stress. There are going to be times when I might feel anxious or I might feel depressed. It really is about how I manage it, how I work through it as I have those feelings,” Morgan said. If you see your child’s anxiety or depression continue, talk to a family doctor. Don’t let stigma hurt your child — don’t wait.
ANXIETY
FROM B1 Kids tend to endure more anxiety than their parents assume, said Morgan — 28 percent of teens and 14 percent of tweens say they worry a lot or deal with a great deal of stress. What is anxiety? “It’s really the fear of the unknown. A lot of people who have anxiety focus on that ‘what if’ question,” Morgan said. Anxiety can be good — it can motivate a student to study for a test and perform well — but only if it’s in the short term. Stress can’t be allowed to build up, to be a pervasive part of everyday life, to become a part of a child’s identity, she said. Teens with anxiety believe their lives are out of control. They may have racing thoughts, irritability, edginess, restlessness, headaches, and outbursts. That state can balloon into depression, characterized by sadness for much of the day and every day. Teens with depression will tend to withdraw, lack energy and focus, and experience changes in sleep patterns and appetite. This isn’t just moodiness. Morgan said the brain normally produces just the right amount of chemicals it needs to feel OK — but under a lot of stress, its neurotransmitters begin to fail and the endorphins that regulate
Thursday, April 11, 2019
Amherst News-Times
Page B3
COMETS BRIEFS Baseball • Pitcher Justin Hritsko safeguarded the Comets as the bats rallied for a 9-3 win over Midview. Eric Ritter had two RBIs; Jason Monos had a run and two RBIs; TJ Staton had a run, a double, and an RBI; and Josh Qualls had two runs and an RBI. Hritsko retired four Middies on strikeouts and allowed just three hits in fives innings. • Josh Qualls had a terrific day as Amherst topped North Ridgeville 6-1, notching a run, a walk, two doubles, three RBIs, and a stolen base. TJ Staton had a run, a double, and an RBI. Jason Mono had two runs and two doubles. Dylan Eaton was the winning pitcher, striking out nine for the Comets in six innings and allowing just two hits. • Josh Qualls racked up a run, two RBIs, and a stolen base as Amherst shut out Berea-Midpark 6-0. Eric Ritter picked up a pair of runs, a double, and an RBI; Jacob Lezon had a run but put on a performance by stealing three bases. Jake Hart had an RBI and stolen base. Kyle Dalzell was the winning pitcher, striking out 12 and allowing no runs on three hits in seven innings. • Pitcher Dylan Eaton picked up the 4-1 win over Olmsted Falls, picking up 10 K's in seven innings for the Comets. TJ Staton smacked a triple and also had an RBI, while Jacob Lezon registered two runs and a stolen base. Softball • Lindsey Reavis led the Comets with four hits and four RBIs as the girls rolled to a 12-2 win over Berea-Midpark in six innings. Cassidy Kettleman had three hits, Kasey McGraw had two and two RBIs, and Madison Wormsley and Kylee McGraw each notched two hits. Madison O'Berg picked up her fifth win on the mound, allowing just one earned run.
Lions Easter egg tradition set for April 20 Splashes of pink, yellow, green, blue, and purple will soon dot the landscape of Maude Neiding Park as the Amherst Lions and Leo Clubs get ready for the annual Amherst Community Easter Egg Hunt on Saturday, April 20. “This is our 23rd year of hosting this very popular family event,” said club president Lori Elswick. “There’s a lot of preparation and then it’s all over in a matter of a few minutes.” The Amherst Steele Leos — the youth service organization of the Lions — have the task of stuffing candy treats in 10,000 plastic eggs the week before and then scattering the eggs throughout the park on the morning of the hunt. “Each of the tasks takes us a few hours to complete but it’s a lot of fun,” said Leo president Jenna McCloskey. “It wasn’t so many years ago that we were the egg hunters. Now we get to help continue this holiday tradition.” The fun will begin with the arrival of the Easter Bunny aboard an Amherst fire engine at 10:30 a.m. The Easter Bunny will be available to greet youngsters and have pictures taken before and after the hunt. The hunt itself will begin promptly at 11 a.m., signaled by the blast of the fire engine horn. Families are advised to arrive early. “Parking is limited at the park,” said Elswick, “so be prepared to park on the nearby side streets and walk to the park. We don’t want anyone missing the start.” There will be three separate hunt areas marked according to age levels: toddlers to three-year-olds, four-to-six-year-olds, and seven-to-10 year-olds. In addition to the candy-filled eggs, there will be specially marked eggs that can be redeemed for prizes at the end of the hunt. Parents are asked not to enter the designated hunt areas when the hunt first begins, especially for the toddler to three-year old section. “We want the young children to enjoy the experience at their own pace and don’t want over-enthused parents spoiling the fun or accidentally knocking down the young egg hunters,” said Elswick. “We’ll let them know a few minutes into the hunt when they can join their children.” For those who are too young to walk on their own, Elswick suggests they visit with the Easter Bunny, who will have plenty of eggs to hand out. However, parents of children with special needs are advised to ask a Lion or Leo Club member for assistance so everyone can take part in the fun. Portable toilets provided by P&J Sanitation will again be available at the park, since the park restrooms are not de-winterized yet. This is a free public event but donations to support Amherst Lions vision care and many other community projects will be accepted. The Amherst Lions will also collect unwanted, used eye-glasses to be recycled and distributed to those in need in developing countries. Collection boxes will be set up for any contributions. For more information about the Amherst Lions Club, look up “Amherst Ohio Lions Club” on Facebook, or email amherstohiolions@gmail.com.
• Kasey McGraw nailed two homers and three RBIs to lead the Comets on a 7-1 rampage over North Ridgeville. Madison O'Berg put another hit over the fence and brought home two RBIs, while Kylee McGraw had a pair of doubles. On the mound, O'Berg struck out eight and allowed just one error on three hits. • Here's a score that speaks for itself: 24-5. Amherst topped Westlake as Madison Wormsley picked up her first pitching win of the season. Kylee McGraw had four hits, including a grand slam, and Cassidy Kettleman had a three-run home run. Comets with multiple hits included Lindsey Reavis, Kasey McGraw, Madison O'Berg, McKenzie Cornwell, and Wormsley. • Pitcher Madison O'Berg enjoyed a one-hitter as the Comets triumphed 5-0 over Olmsted Falls. Cassidy Kettleman had a triple and two runs, while Madison Wormsley had a pair of singles. Kasey McGraw, Lindsey Reavis, and Clarissa Lezon helped O'Berg lock down the Bulldogs with key defensive plays. Track and Field Amherst defeated Midview at home, with the girls scoring 88 points and the boys pulling 76. First place finishers included: • Alex Boyles: Long jump, 15 feet 1 inch. • Macy Dimacchia: 100-meter hurdles, 16.8 seconds.
• Macy Dimacchia: 300-meter hurdles, 51.5 seconds. • Sydney Walker: Pole vault, 10 feet 6 inches. • Kalyn Potyrala: 800 meters, 2:30.7. • Anna Dudziak: 100 meters, 13.3 seconds • Kaylee Haff: 1,600 meters, 5:52.1. • Merrik Mihalek: 400 meters, 1:08. • Sidney Hooks: 200 meters, 28.5 seconds. • Cassidy Hill: 3,200 meters, 12:43. • The 4x100 relay team of Kylie Olney, Sidney Hooks, Anna Dudziak, and Kami Dumais, 53.1 seconds. • The 4x200 relay team of Kylie Olney, Sidney Hooks, Anna Dudziak, and Macy Dimacchia, 1:56.7. • The 4x800 relay team of Kaylee Haff, Kayla Snowden, Kalyn Potyrala, and Cassidy Hill, 13:17.7. • Dominic Deshuk: Long jump, 21 feet. • Dominic Deshuk: 110-meter hurdles, 15.3 seconds. • Dominic Deshuk: 300-meter hurdles, 42.1 seconds. • Caleb Stempowski: High jump, 6 feet 4 inches. • Caleb Stempowski: 200 meters, 23.4 seconds. • Jaret Prete: Shot put, 46 feet 8 inches. • Jaret Prete: Discus, 152 feet 9 inches. • Bradley Kirsch: 800 meters, 2:08.9. • Cael Walker: 1,600 meters, 4:57.8. • Aaron Kukucka: 400 meters, 57.3 seconds. • The 4x800 relay team of Isaac Davis, Matthew Kirsch, Seyveon Plaza, and Sam Parker, 9:36.1.
SWEEP! SWEEP! SWEEP!
Jonathan Delozier | Amherst News-Times
► Luke Feakins delivers a pitch during his complete game shutout Sunday, part of a double-header against Lorain. He struck out 13 in Amherst’s 6-0 victory, then stepped to the plate for his own run and a double. Justin Hritsko knocked out a run, and RBI, and had two stolen bases. Josh Qualls had a run, an RBI, and a stolen base. Also against Lorain, Jacob Lezon knocked out a home run and had two RBIs, three runs, and a double Sunday in a 10-0 shutout win. TJ Staton had two RBIs; Jake Hart had an RBI, two runs, and a stolen base; and Justin Hritsko had two RBIs and a run. Brayden Willbond was the winning pitcher, striking out five in two innings and shutting down Lorain on two hits. Jason Monos pitched four innings, retiring six and allowing just one hit.
CRUISING THE WORLD ACROSS 1. *Measured in knots 6. Kendrick Lamar’s genre 9. High school breakout 13. More lax 14. Female gametes 15. Rice wine 16. Verdi’s output 17. X 18. Chilled, two words 19. *San Diego and San Francisco connection 21. *Budapest and Belgrade connection 23. Greek H 24. H. H. Munro’s pen name 25. ____ De Triomphe 28. Old World duck 30. Accept without proof 35. Through, to a poet 37. What the Big Bad Wolf did 39. TV and radio 40. Observer 41. Letter-shaped girder 43. Month of Purim 44. What hoarders do 46. Tallest volcano in Europe 47. Trending one online 48. *Phnom Penh and Vientiane connection 50. Lazily 52. Antonym of keep 53. Cathedral area 55. “High” drink 57. *Iquitos and Santarem connection 60. *Shanghai and Jingzhou connection 64. Walter Mondale’s nickname 65. A try 67. Like an unwelcome neighbor 68. Hunter’s fake duck 69. R&B Charles 70. Clear the board 71. “Hurry!” acronym 72. Often follows to 73. Bullseye game DOWN 1. Pig trough stuff 2. The biggest bear 3. Biz bigwig 4. Fear-inspiring
5. Author’s first copies 6. Campus drillers 7. Hail to Maria 8. Bamboo-eating bear 9. Hokkaido people 10. Bed with bars 11. *French Riviera port 12. WSW opposite 15. Opposite of pluralism 20. Iambus, pl. 22. Theodor Geisel, ____ Dr. Seuss 24. Term of endearment, with pie 25. Mr. T and friends 26. Mother Goose’s poem 27. Floorboard sound 29. *Wittenberg and Dresden connection 31. Clothing joint 32. Milk dispenser 33. *Port in Biscayne Bay
34. Dog-____ pages 36. Approximately, two words 38. Ollivanders’ merchandise, sing. 42. *Island country off the coast of Sicily 45. Stylish 49. Government Printing Office 51. Pined 54. Chow down voraciously 56. Greek bazaar 57. Bellicose deity 58. Flexible mineral 59. At the summit 60. Duncan toy 61. One of the Romanovs 62. Marinara quality 63. Beholder’s organs 64. Food safety org. 66. Needlefish
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Thursday, April 11, 2019
Amherst News-Times
One more Pop Show for choir’s Mark Skladan JASON HAWK EDITOR
Mark Skladan broke into a huge grin when we asked about his retirement at the end of the year. After 22 years at the fore of the Amherst Steele High School choirs and more than three decades in education, he plans to step down after one last Pop Show. “I’m not excited to leave my kids behind because I still enjoy what I’m doing,” he told us. “I’m still in music and in the classroom itself. It’s always been a joy for 33 years. The education field is
changing just a little bit from when I got in it and there’s emphasis on other things. I really want to concentrate on music and that’s really all I’ve been about.” After starting his career in New London and then Midview, Skladan came to Amherst in 1997 to take over for Alan Peterson, who headed the choir for 24 years and carried on the legacy of former director Bob Bostwick. A tribute concert was held in May 2016 for all three directors and their half-century of contributions to the choral program. Skladan has put his own stamp on the choir, earning the
praise of his students and fostering their talents through district and state contests. His favorite part of the job has been molding start-of-the-year raw talent into end-ofthe-year excellence. It’s a chance to watch students’ confidence grow as they hone their voices, he said. But there’s also pressure: “Choir has to go undefeated. You can’t go to a concert and have a bad concert,” said Skladan. “Sometimes a team can go and have a bad game and lose the game. But a choir, we can’t do that because 1,000 people are looking at us. If we do a bad job,
Spring is at Don Mould’s
everybody knows it... We’re taking our test, not in a classroom — we’re taking it in front of people.” Under his leadership, the choir has collected numerous accolades and toured New York, Chicago, and Nashville. “What we’ve tried to do, in my philosophy, is not only teach them to have a love for music and love singing but try to give them some life skills and some lessons for life — responsibility and getting along in a group situation,” said Skladan. Not every Amherst graduate will go on to sing but it’s a skill his graduates can carry through life, he said. Now, preparing to retire, the longtime choir director said he’s enjoyed his experience working with students, parents, and staff members.
“It’s been a joyful run. I hope I’m going out on top before someone says, ‘Is that guy still here?’ That’s my goal and I hope I achieved it.” MARK SKLADAN He is also voicing his concern for the future of public school arts programs. The benefits of vocal instruction are not testable in the same way standardized tests measure progress in science and math, Skladan said. He pointed to the European education
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model, in which the arts are required courses, not electives as they are here in Ohio. “There’s this emphases on testing and emphasis on ‘core’ subjects. Well yes, those things are important,” he said. “You have to know how to do math and how to write. We’re not diminishing the importance of those. But you also have to have a creative side. “That’s what I’ve always been about. Usually, kids in band and choir and orchestra are the kids who really, really succeed because they know how to organize and they also have that creative side that’s so important.” Just one more Pop Show is on the calendar before Skladan departs Steele. Performances are scheduled for 7:30 p.m. on Friday, May 17 and Saturday, May 18 at the Lorain Palace Theatre. Now in its 53rd year, the theme of Pop Show will be “Road Trippin’ (The Final Tour).” Skladan said his seniors came up with the idea since it’s their farewell from high school but also his. Don’t take it the wrong way, though — no one expects Pop Show to go away. It’s become a “mega event” over the past 30 years, growing out of the school cafeteria and drawing crowds enough to warrant multiple shows.
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OBERLIN NEWS-TRIBUNE THURSDAY, APRIL 11, 2019 • SERVING OBERLIN SINCE 1930
First Church seeks to raise $1.4 million
OHC COMMUNITY AWARDS
JASON HAWK EDITOR
For a brief moment Friday, I stood where Mark Twain once did — where Frederick Douglass spoke, and Ralph Waldo Emerson, President Woodrow Wilson, Martin Luther King Jr., and Booker T. Washington. I stood behind the pulpit and looked out over the sun-filled sanctuary of the First Church in Oberlin, a space designed by evangelist Charles Finney so he could look squarely in the eyes of everyone seated within. Now changes are coming to the church, which hopes to raise $1.4 million this spring. Pending approval by the city’s historic preservation commission, church leaders have a list of renovations they plan to pursue. It includes reconstruction of the chancel, where a large, fixed pulpit dating back to 1928 will be removed. The goal is to restore the platform, according to historian Laurel Price Jones. “For a long time, the Meeting House was used for everything. It was used for debates. It was used to worship. It was used for demonstrations. The telephone was demonstrated here,” she said. After the construction of Finney Chapel, with another venue available for events, the pulpit was installed. Church leaders — including Jones, Michael Schmid, and Dale Preston — told us the FIRST CHURCH PAGE C2
Jason Hawk | Oberlin News-Tribune
Michael Schmid, Laurel Price Jones, and Dale Preston sit inside the historic First Church in Oberlin UCC, which is due for restoration projects.
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Earth Day Offers Valuable Lessons to Investors Article 10 – April 15, 2019
stocks. By reinvesting these dividends, you can increase the number of shares you own – and share ownership is a good way to help build your portfolio. Some companies have paid, and even increased, their dividends many years in a row, but keep in mind they’re not obligated to do so. • Plant seeds of opportunity. Some Earth Day events involve planting trees – many of which won’t be fully grown for decades. When you invest, you are planting seeds in the form of investments you hope will grow over the years. Of course, you will likely see some volatility along the way, but over the long term, investments with strong fundamentals may reward you for your patience. Apart from these ideas, you also can connect the idea of helping protect the environment with investing for your goals. Through socially responsible investing, you can screen out investments in companies whose products you find objectionable, while supporting businesses whose work you believe helps contribute to a better world. And you can find investments, such as mutual funds that emphasize social responsibility, whose returns are competitive, so you don’t have to sacrifice growth potential for your principles. In the nearly 50 years since Earth Day celebrations began, we have taken steps to improve many aspects of our physical world, although the work continues. And by following some of the same techniques, you can improve your investment environment, too.
On April 22, millions of people will observe Earth Day by participating in events that support environmental protection. As a citizen, you may want to take part in a local celebration. And as an investor, you can learn a few lessons from the themes of Earth Day. Here are a few of them: • Avoid a toxic investment environment. A recurring topic of Earth Day is the necessity of reducing toxins from our air, water and land. And, while you might not think of it in those terms, your portfolio can also contain some “toxic” elements in the form of investments that may be hindering your progress, or, at the very least, not contributing to it. For instance, you might own some investments that, for one reason or another, have consistently underperformed, or are now too aggressive for your risk tolerance, which can change over the years. In these cases, you might be better off selling the investments and using the proceeds for other, more appropriate ones. • Look for sources of renewable energy. Efforts to protect our environment include a push for more renewable energy sources, such as solar and wind. As an investor, you, too, can look for “renewables” in the form of investments that keep paying you back in one way or another. Of course, the most basic example would be a bond, which pays you regular interest until the bond matures and you get your principal back, provided This article was written by Edward Jones for the issuer doesn’t default, which is generally unlikely with an investment-grade bond. use by your local Edward Jones Financial AdHowever, you also may want to consider visor. another type of renewable – dividend-paying
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Oberlin Heritage Center Community Award winners pose after being recognized at the nonprofit’s annual dinner meeting last week at The Hotel at Oberlin.
Meet this year’s winners History Teacher of the Year Award: Mike Demchak As a social studies teacher at Christian Community School in North Eaton, Demchak is well aware of the relevance of delving into the past to enhance our ability to interact with today’s world. His experience as a high school history teacher led him to embrace the National History Day program as a tool for students to learn not only research and argumentative skills, but also to deepen their understanding of the value found in critical thinking, teamwork, goal-setting, patience, and responsibility. For more than a decade, Demchak has built his school’s History Day program into a powerhouse that sees consistent success at Cleveland’s regional contest as well as at the state and national levels. Business Leader Service Award: Marty Buck For 15 years, Buck, owner and operator of Techies, has served as the Oberlin Heritage Center’s IT department and now plans to retire. Although he is a subcontractor on paper, OHC members have found him to be a volunteer at heart — Buck has handled a number of planned projects, including researching technology purchases, installing equipment, networking computers and
OHC campaign hits $551K
More than 260 donors have contributed $551,000 to the Pat Murphy Endowment for Heritage Preservation to date. The figure was announced April 2 at the Oberlin Heritage Center's annual meeting, and met with celebratory whistles from hundreds of attendees. Named in honor of former director Pat Murphy, who retired in 2015 after 22 years of service, the fund generates income toward the maintenance and preservation of the OHC's buildings and museum collection. Board president Gail Wood said the endowment campaign has surpassed its mid-point goal. Many of the donors are part of a special circle of friends known as Heritage Center Endowed Life Members who were recognized at this year’s annual meeting. Each received the gift of a elm tree lapel pin in appreciation for their deeply rooted support of the organization. The image of an elm was taken from the tree that decorated the corner of Tappan Square until 1965. Governance committee chair Barbara Enos presided over the election of new trustees, including Carl Jacobson, Julie Min and Nikki Smith-Hignite. Laurel Price Jones and Brittnei Sherrod were re-elected to three-year terms on the OHC board, while Stephen Johnson III and Edward Wardwell were appointed honorary trustees following completion of several board terms each. copiers, backing up records, and more. He’s been called upon to solve emergency server issues or recover errant batches of email, always solving problems with finesse and no fuss. In addition to his service to the OHC, Buck is valued by others in the community, including the First Church in Oberlin UCCC
and the Friends of the Oberlin Public Library. Volunteers of the Year: The Westwood Cemetery GPS Team Westwood Cemetery was dedicated in 1864 and contains thousands of monuments, headstones, and markers. AWARDS PAGE C2
'Elusive Utopia' tells the story of rise and fall of race ideals JASON HAWK EDITOR
Founded in 1833 with the righteous goal of stamping out slavery and prejudice, Oberlin lost its way over the course of a century. That is the depressing path traced by historians Gary Kornblith and Carol Lasser in "Elusive Utopia: The Struggle for Racial Equality in Oberlin, Ohio," released in December after 20 years of hard work.
As keynote speakers April 2 at the Oberlin Heritage Center's annual meeting, they talked about the erosion of the city's ideals — but also some of its heroes. The town's all-white founders declared they would stand for nothing less than complete abolition and equal rights for all races. But they pledged only to use peaceful means — a stance that began to change as the years wore on. A turning point came in 1858, when a U.S. marshal kidnapped escaped slave John Price from
Oberlin under the Fugitive Slave Law and absconded to Wellington, where he holed up in a hotel to await a train back to the South. When townsfolk heard about Price's abduction, a rescue party marched south and freed him by force. Fifteen months later, residents flooded First Church to mourn abolitionists John Copeland Jr. and Lewis Sheridan Leary, Oberlinians who had taken part in the 1859 raid on Harpers Ferry,
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Oberlin News-Tribune
Spring break camp
The Oberlin Heritage Center will offer a week of camp for boys and girls ages eight to 13 from 9:30 a.m. to 4 p.m., Monday, April 22 through Friday, April 26. It will focus on people and events in history that made us shudder, yet also were catalysts for improvements and change in the world. The camp fee is $110 per child ($100 for children and grandchildren of Oberlin Heritage Center members). Scholarship assistance is available to those who qualify for free or reduced school lunch programs. Camps are held the Oberlin Depot, 240 South Main St., with some walking field trips to places nearby. Make a reservation at www.oberlinheritagecenter.org or contact museum education and tour coordinator Amanda Manahan at 440-774-1700.
FIRST CHURCH
FROM C1 platform space should be more flexible. Paint, new carpet, energy-efficient lighting, new electrical service, and installation of a small elevator are also planned. Pew cushions, which are 110 years old, will also be replaced. Ten windows that extend the full height of the Meeting House will be repaired. Some have cracked glass; sills need replaced and all need new caulk and paint. When restoration is complete, they’ll get storm windows and screens, too. “If nothing is done for those windows, we will lose them and that’s not acceptable,” said Jones. Sandstone steps at the front of First Church have settled and must be fixed. Schmid said the plan is to remove them, lay a new foundation, and restore as many of the original slabs as possible. Jones said the church’s iconic cupola will also get attention. It’s steel crown has corroded, as have the anchors that hold it to the roof. An outdoor terrace is also planned for the green space along North Main Street. It will provide ramped access and a powered door to the church. First Church has launched a capital campaign for the projects. It already has $300,000 in cash on hand and slightly more than that amount in grant pledges from the Ohio Historic Preservation Office
and the National Fund of Sacred Places. The congregation is doing its part and now First Church is looking to the community in hopes of finding another $500,000. Jones said the church is important not just as a landmark but also because it has been central to Oberlin’s mission through the years. When it was built in 1842, it boasted the largest auditorium west of the Allegheny Mountains. It drew notable speakers from near and far and established a legacy of abolitionism, women’s rights, temperance, and civil rights. “The Meeting House — by any standard, not just in Oberlin — is a really important building because of the early history of Oberlin as a colony, using education to produce reform,” Jones said. “Because there was this fervor and because abolition then became a cause, a tremendous amount of important things happened from the Meeting House.” It remains important, said Preston: More than 100 organizations hold events each year at First Church, from The MAD Factory to the Oberlin Heritage Center to the Oberlin Choristers. More than 1,000 people visit the church each year on historical tours, usually in groups of 20 or 30. All told, an estimated 20,000 people pass through the church doors every year, Jones said.
AWARDS
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For the past 10 years, volunteers from the Oberlin Heritage Center have been documenting the gravestones by transcribing inscriptions, taking photos, and most recently determining GPS coordinates to make it easier for visitors to find specific gravesites. The GPS phase of the project begin in 2014 with the help of then-board member Rich Fredrickson and his surveying and engineering company, Rafter A. Ltd. Judy Connolly has kept a database through all phases of work. Other team members include Camille Hamlin Allen, Amy Chuang, Judy Cook, and Adam Freas, along with OHC members Amanda Manahan and Liz Schultz. Last year, the team logged 172 volunteer hours in the field and another 360 working with the data. Over the course of four years, they have dedicated more than 2,000 hours. Visit the database at www.oberlinwestwood.org/omeka. Youth Community Service Award: Ruby Denneen As a high school junior, Denneen inquired about volunteering for the
Oberlin Heritage Center in the summer of 2017. She dedicated two hours nearly every Saturday and stood out for her willingness to do whatever was needed with care and attention to detail. She contributed research in preparation for the OHC’s 2018 Spring Break Camp and continues to help with program evaluation and publicity distribution. Youth Community Service Award: John Elrod Since becoming involved at the Oberlin Heritage Center as a high school sophomore in the spring of 2017, Elrod has become a valued assistant due to his research skills, artistic nature, and ability to quickly learn. He has contributed in many areas of museum work, including history education and programming, leading tours and assisting at kids’ camps, and designing publicity materials. Elrod was even the “voice” of OHC on a series of public service announcements recorded by WOBL/ WDLW last summer. He will attend Denison University this fall.
Thursday, April 11, 2019
Peace posters
An exhibit of peace posters created by students in Shiraz, Iran, is on display through May 20 in the Friends and Community Galleries at Kendal at Oberlin. The show was organized by Jafar Mahallati, faculty member in the Oberlin College religion department. A reception will be held at 2:30 p.m. on Wednesday, April 17 in the Friends Corner dining room.
Asbestos vote
A $3,657 change order was approved on emergency vote Monday, April 1 to cover costs associated with the demolition of the former Oberlin Bait Canteen on Sumner Street. Matt Winters Excavating of Atwater, Ohio, was paid the additional funds because more asbestos than expected was found when digging, said city planning and development director Carrie Handy. The building's walls extender farther underground than originally believed, she said. The increase brought the total demolition cost to $105,648, in excess of the $100,000 budgeted.
College Credit Plus
The first nine Langston Middle School students to take a College Credit Plus course have completed SDEV 101. The course introduced strategies for developing success in college. It covered personal responsibility, motivation, goal-setting, learning styles, emotional intelligence, student skills, lifelong learning, and career and academic planning.
UTOPIA
FROM C1 which had been orchestrated to start an armed slave revolt. The two events marked a shift from Oberlin's embrace of civic disobedience to acceptance of coercive force to end human bondage in the United States, said Kornblith. By the 1860s, Oberlin had become a safehaven for black migrants, including former slaves fleeing southern bondage. About one in five residents was African-American, compared to just two percent of all Ohioans. Kornblith and Lasser said that, while imperfect, race relations in Oberlin were far more advanced than elsewhere, even in most of the North — the public schools were open to people of color, for example. But even here, racial prejudice was still a matter of everyday life and was intertwined with economic status. Before the Civil War, it was mainly the town's African-American residents who propelled their white neighbors toward more radical steps to end slavery, said Lasser. When the Civil War broke out, white Oberlin men rushed to join the ranks of the North. It wasn't until 1863 that people of color were allowed to take up arms, however. And white Oberlinians often led the black regiments in which their black neighbors were allowed to serve. After the war, efforts to enshrine equal rights for people of all races was met with stiff resistance at the state and federal levels. And that's when everything started to go wrong for race relations in Oberlin, Kornblith and Lasser said. The late 1800s and early 1900s saw the rise of the temperance movement, which equated alcohol use in any amount with moral decay. Kornblith said it created "the racialization of respectability" — white teetotalers were viewed as morally superior to black people who drank. Oberlin's evangelical reformers viewed the battle against alcohol as the moral equivalent of the fight against slavery, he said. But abolitionists had never viewed slaves as responsible for their enslavement, while alcohol use was viewed as a self-destructive behavior. The result was an increasing wedge between the races, both socially and economically. Where once they had been prominent business owners, social orgnaizers, and politicians, Lasser said residents of color were pushed out of the picture by their white counterparts. Stigmatization of blackness led to residential segregation, sometimes enforced by racist property and housing laws. By the 1950s, Oberlin increasingly looked like the rest of the country in terms of prejudice. "In short, the not-very-happy ending of our story is that the color line came to Oberlin much later than the rest of the country but by the 1920s it was undeniable," Kornblith said. THREE HEROES Kornblith and Lasser shared the tales of three race-relations heroes that fit into the city's larger story. • John Watson was among those who landed in the Cuyahoga County Jail after rescuing Price in 1858. Born into slavery around 1920, he came to Oberlin in the 1840s and opened a grocery store and restaurant,
earning respect and admiration. He was an early and persistent leader in Oberlin's pursuit of equality, harboring freedom-seekers on the Underground Railroad. In 1851, when a white family turned away fugitives from the South, Watson opened his doors — and the next day called a town meeting to exact an oath to help anyone and everyone fleeing slavery. Freed from jail after the Price rescue, Watson was unhappy that slave-catchers thought Oberlin held southern sympathizers who would look the other way. He pressed his compatriots to accept the use of deadly force as morally justifiable in opposing slavery. • Born enslaved around 1836, Henry Lee fled Virginia. In Oberlin, he took odd jobs and classes and in 1865 reached freshman status at the college. He later returned to Virginia to rescue his three sisters and their families. "I wish to bestow upon them the blessings of a free civilization," Lee said. Wherever he went, Lee found trouble. He twice refused to give up his first class ticket while traveling by rail; the first time he was rescued by the president of Oberlin College, who just happened to be riding in the same car. The second time, he was beaten. On another occasion, Lee was shot after refusing to remove his feet from a bench where a white man wanted to sit. Lee publicly chided Republicans — then the party of Abraham Lincoln — for failing to pass a civil rights act. He later called for people of color to declare their independence from the Republican Party. Lee fought for black business opportunities and against laws limiting them. He demanded the Oberlin school board remove a textbook with racist language. And he demanded the college help even the playing field for non-whites. • Blanche Virginia Harris Brooks Jones fought for black rights but avoided open confrontation, instead embracing a strategy of social respectability. She became one of the earliest teachers sent by the American Missionary Association to educate freed people in the South. Brooks Jones taught in Virginia, Mississippi, North Carolina, and Tennessee, becoming a school principal. In 1893, she returned to Oberlin and quickly inserted herself into the town's social hierarchy, taking charge of a sewing school, joining the board of the kindergarten association, and running unsuccessfully for the board of education. In her later years, seeing the respectability tactic fail, Brooks Jones adopted a more radical approach. She welcomed the Niagara Movement — founded by WEB DuBois and William Monroe Trotter as a forerunner to the NAACP — to Oberlin for its annual meeting. Black delegates from 11 states took this recommendation home: "Obey the law, defend no crime, conceal no criminal, seek no quarrel; but arm yourselves, and when the mob invades your home, shoot, and shoot to kill." Brooks Jones went on to help found the city's NAACP chapter and promote women's suffrage but "she lived to see the fall of Oberlin's Utopian vision," Kornblith said.
Thursday, April 11, 2019
Oberlin News-Tribune
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FEELING THE MAGIC
CAREER DAY
@OCSSuper
Oberlin City Schools band students performed last week at Disney World in Florida. Here, they chill with new unofficial Oberlin student Mickey Mouse!
POLICE REPORTS • March 22 at 1:43 p.m.: Nicholas Babal, 34, of Brooklyn, was charged with possession of drugs. The charge came after complaints to law enforcement about a reckless driver. Marijuana and a smoking pipe were found in Babal's vehicle. • March 23 at 12:04 a.m.: Za-Quan Bolling, 20 of Wellington, was charged with felony counts of having weapons under disability and improper handling of a firearm in a motor vehicle. Denavin Whitman, 18, of Wellington, was charged with felony counts of carrying a concealed weapon and improper handling of a firearm in a motor vehicle. A juvenile was also involved and was recommended for charges of possession of marijuana, improper handling of a firearm in a motor vehicle, carrying a concealed weapon, having a weapon under disability, theft, and possession of criminal tools. The charges came after a
theft complaint at Wal-Mart on US 20, Police said they recovered a semi-automatic pistol from under a seat, a semi-automatic handgun from one suspect's underwear, and a revolver in a vehicle's glove compartment. Also in the vehicle were several black bandannas, latex gloves, and stolen merchandise, according to a report. • March 23 at 10:38 p.m.: A woman said she saw two juveniles rummaging through her car outside The Hotel at Oberlin and she was pushed to the ground. • March 25 at 11:05 a.m.: A complainant said someone tried to open a cell phone account in her brother's name at Wal-Mart. • March 26 at 11:11 a.m.: William Huffman, 48, of Elyria, was arrested on a warrant through the Sheffield police department for failure to appear in court. • March 26 at 5:31 p.m.: A cell phone account was reportedly
opened fraudulently. • March 27 at 10:15 a.m.: A fraudulent credit card transaction for $931 was reported to police. • March 30 at 4:34 p.m.: Mark Barrier was arrested on a warrant through the Ashland police department for failure to appear in court. The original charge was failure to file a municipal income tax return. • March 30 at 5:19 p.m.: A non-student allegedly threatened to end her life inside the Kohl Jazz Building at Oberlin College. She was released to a relative. • March 30 at 11:13 p.m.: A computer was reported stolen from The Feve on South Main Street. It was later found at home. Editor’s note: Though charged, defendants are innocent until proven guilty in a court of law.
CHURCH DIRECTORY All Oberlin-area churches are invited to post service times in the News-Tribune. Send your listing to us via email at news@lcnewspapers.com. • Park Street Seventh-day Adventist Church, 99 South Park St., has Sabbath school at 9:30 a.m. followed by worship at 11 a.m. on Saturday. Prayer meetings are held at 7 p.m. on Wednesdays via the prayer line (details on the church website). Visit www. parkstreetsda.org for more information. • Oberlin Unitarian Universalist Fellowship meets at 355 East Lorain St. at 10:30 a.m. on Sundays for worship. Childcare is available. Meditation, drawing on many traditions, will be held from 1-2 p.m. on Tesuday, April 16. • Christ Episcopal Church, 162 South Main St., holds Sunday services of the Holy Eucharist at 8 a.m. and 10:30 a.m. Adult Christian formation is held at 9:15 a.m. on Sundays. The Holy Eucharist is celebrated on Wednesdays at 8 a.m. Adult choir rehearsals are at 7:30 p.m. on Thursdays. • Grace Lutheran Church, 310 West Lorain St., holds worship service and Sunday school at 10 a.m. on Sundays followed by fellowship and adult Bible study at 11:40 a.m. • Sacred Heart Church, 410 West Lorain St., has a vigil Mass at 4 p.m. on Saturdays; Sunday Mass at 10:30 a.m.; and weekday Masses at 6:30 p.m. Thursdays and 8:45 a.m. Fridays. • The First Church in Oberlin, United Church of Christ, 106 North Main St., has Sunday worship at 10 a.m. with communion the first Sunday of each month. Childcare provided. Children’s church is at 10:15 a.m. Sunday school will be held for all ages at 11 a.m. For weekly information, visit www.firstchurchoberlin.org. • The Empty Field Buddhist Community, 5 South Main St., Suite 212, meets at 8:30 a.m. on Sundays. Meetings include two 25-minute meditation periods and book study until 10:30 a.m. For more information, contact John Sabin at 440-574-1570 or jwsabin@gmail.com.
• First United Methodist Church, 45 South Professor St., has adult Sunday school at 9:30 a.m. and worship at 10:30 a.m. with infant care available. • Christ Temple Apostolic Church, 370 West Lincoln St., has free hot breakfast from 8:30-9:30 a.m. on Sundays with Sunday prayer from 9-9:30 a.m. Sunday Academy is at 9:30 a.m. with classes for preschool to adults, followed by concession and refreshments. Worship and children’s church is at 11 a.m. Tuesday Bible study is at 7 p.m. Wednesday prayer is from noon to 1 p.m. First Friday prayer is from 7-8 p.m. Prison ministry at Lorain Correctional Institution in Grafton is at 6 p.m. on the third Sunday of each month. For transportation, call pastor Laurence Nevels at 440-774-1909. • Pittsfield Community Church has Sunday worship service at 10:30 a.m. There is a new Mothers of Preschool children’s group. For more information, call 440-774-2162. • Rust United Methodist Church meets Sundays with a free community breakfast at 9 a.m., church school for all ages at 9:30 a.m., and worship at 11 a.m. A noon prayer service is held each Wednesday. Sparrow Bible Study is held Wednesdays at 7 p.m., 133 Smith St. Gospel Choir practices at 12:30 p.m. on Saturdays. • Peace Community Church, 44 East Lorain St., has worship at 10 a.m. on Sundays. There is a children’s class during service. A peace vigil is held at noon on Saturday on Tappan Square. • House of Praise International Church meets at 11 a.m. each Sunday at Oberlin High School with a service as well as children and youth ministries. For details, visit www.hopchurch.org. • Mount Zion Baptist Church, 185 South Pleasant St., has the Church at Study service at 9:30 a.m. Sundays with the Church at Worship at 10:30 a.m. The Church at Prayer is held at 6 p.m. on Wednesdays. • Calvary Baptist Church, 414 South Main St., has Sunday school at 10 a.m. and worship at 11 a.m. with children’s church
for preschool through third grade. Bible study is held at 6 p.m. on Sundays, with teens meeting at 7:15 p.m. Wednesday is family night with Men of Action Bible study, Women of Faith Bible study, and teen and JOY Club meetings at 6:30 p.m. • East Oberlin Community Church has Sunday school at 10 a.m. and Sunday worship at 11 a.m. A friends and family meal is held at noon on the last Sunday of each month; take a dish to share. Pastor Chris Vough has office hours at 5 p.m. on Wednesdays, followed by Bible study at 6 p.m. For more information, call 440-774-3443. • Life Builders Foursquare Church meets at the pastor’s residence, 43 East Vine St. Sunday praise and worship starts at 11 a.m. Men’s Bible study is at 7 p.m. on Tuesdays. A women’s meeting is held twice each month on Sunday after church. • Oberlin Missionary Alliance Church, 125 South Pleasant St., holds Sunday school for children and adults at 9:30 a.m. Sunday morning worship begins at 10:45 a.m. Weekly workshop begins with Wednesday prayer services at noon and Bible studies at 7 p.m. with pastor Lester Allen. • Oberlin Friends (Quakers) meet for worship from 10:3011:30 a.m. each Sunday in the education center at Kendal at Oberlin, 600 Kendal Dr. • Glorious Faith Tabernacle, 45637 East Hamilton St., has services Sundays at 11 a.m. with pastors Allan and Rochelle Carter. Sunday school is at 9:30 a.m. Intercessory prayer is held at 6 p.m. on Tuesdays with Bible study at 7 p.m. • Green Pastures Baptist Church, 12404 Leavitt Rd., has Sunday school at 10 a.m. and worship service on Sundays at 11 a.m. A Sunday evening service is held at 6 p.m. • The Kipton Community Church, 511 Church St., has Sunday services at 8:30 a.m. and 10:30 am. with youth Sunday school at 10:45 a.m. Communion is the first Sunday of the month. The church food pantry is open every Tuesday from 6-7:30 p.m. for our area.
Submitted photo
Andy Bilczo puts his handprint into cement with his mom, Jennifer Bilczo, in the Lorain County JVS masonry trades lab. The vocational school nearly burst at the seams March 30 as fourth-, fifth-, and sixth-graders rolled up their sleeves for some hands-on exploration during a Career Tech Saturday event. Kids removed hard drives from desktop computers, built their own birdhouses, made terrariums, baked rainbow bread, flew drones, used airbrushes, and more.
LETTERS Remembering a meeting
To the editor: As a member of Totally Engaged Americans, the tea party group in Lorain County, I appreciate (Janet) Garrett and her election challenges to Rep. Jim Jordan. Ms. Garrett articulated clear differences between progressive and conservative visions for the citizens’ relationship with our government. I would like to respond to her remarks regarding our 2014 meeting. I was present and near the gentleman who, according to her, said that Republicans needed to suppress the vote and that the audience nodded in approval. I remember his comments differently, although I understand Ms. Garrett’s point. First, I remember him making comments about early voting that met with agreement. Ohio generously allows a full month of early voting. Our wish is to protect voter integrity and we are concerned with increasing opportunities for errors and inaccuracies with this extended time. I then recall the troubling part of his comments where he mentioned that Democrats vote early, and therefore early voting unfairly benefited Democrats. I don’t believe the word “suppress” was used, however I was uncomfortable with either his direction or his expression of that view and understand how Ms. Garrett perceived it. Members of our tea party are grassroots advocates. We are not part of a political machine where discussions of suppressing, intimidating, or misleading voters would be acceptable. We want to persuade people to our side and then win or lose on the merits. Ms. Garrett also recognized points of agreement with our group. We all can observe the same problems when it comes to the costs of health care, for instance. We agree that health care is best managed by patients and doctors and that our costs have risen faster than our wages. We also both see problems with the increased influence of third-party health insurance companies. It is possible to find agreement in identifying and articulating a common problem. Unfortunately, the political atmosphere is so toxic that we paint the other side with the worst stereotype, and then argue with that stereotype rather than with the person. We appreciate Ms. Garrett for attending in 2014 and wish her well. Michael Moats Assistant Chair, Totally Engaged Americans
Who does Jim Jordan work for?
To the editor: A national news outlet reports that Rep. Jim Jordan of the Ohio's 4th District, as the ranking member of the House Oversight Committee, has been involved in sending a letter to big drug companies encouraging them to refuse to comply with the House Oversight Committee's investigation into corruption in drug costs. Again, he is a member of the House Oversight Committee. Online news outlet Buzzfeed.News states, "House Republicans are warning drug companies against complying with a House investigation into drug prices." Rep. Jordan thinks it is more important for big drug companies to make money than for citizens to save money on fair pricing for much-needed medicines. Who exactly does Rep. Jordan work for? It's not the people that pay his salary nor the citizens who vote him into office. Rep. Jordan is unworthy of the responsibility voters have placed on his shoulders. He bows to a different master. Jim Jordan has to go. Charles Peterson
Page C4
Thursday, April 11, 2019
Oberlin News-Tribune
OBERLIN COLLEGE City picks Yates as its new code A decade of Fulbright scholarship administrator ERIN ULRICH OBERLIN COLLEGE
JONATHAN DELOZIER REPORTER
Oberlin College was recognized as a top producer of Fulbright Students for the 2018-2019 academic year, an honor the college has received annually for a decade. First introduced by then-Sen. J. William Fulbright, Congress created the Fulbright Program in 1946, designed to foster international goodwill through global learning initiatives for students. The Fulbright U.S. Student Program now offers opportunities for recent graduates and graduate students to engage in international exchange and learning in more than 160 countries and awards 1,900 grants annually. Funded through an annual appropriation by the United States Congress to the Department of State’s Bureau of Educational and Cultural Affairs, the program is the largest of its kind in the United States. Oberlin’s 220 total recipients of Fulbright U.S. student grants have engaged in a wide range of international learning experiences, from studying violin in Samoa to studying anti-obstetric violence law in Argentina. Director of fellowships and awards Nick Petzak said the breadth of skills Fulbright students gain through their diverse experiences gives them a leg-up professionally. “Fulbright students are engaged in practical, intense professional experiences — the kinds of experiences the global economy demands and employers value,” Petzak said. “These kinds of experiences can be personally and professionally transformational.” Transformation, Petzak said, is a common theme shared by Oberlin Fulbright alumni. Theodora Nestorova, a 2018 graduate who is studying vocal pedagogy in Vienna, Austria, echoed this sentiment. “Professionally, my life
Chris Yates, former building inspector for the city of Lorain, has been hired as Oberlin's code administrator. The new full-time position has been created to fill the void left by the retirement of community service officer Henry Wallace. Wallace stepped away in December after 34 years of service with the Oberlin police department, where he had also been captain of the auxiliary. City manager Rob Hillard characterized the new position in three parts. One will include nuisance enforcement such as abandoned vehicles and tall grass complaints, similar to Wallace's work. Writing parking tickets, another aspect of Wallace's job, will not be part of Yates' duties. “We readdressed the position and decided to make it full-time,” Hillard said. “Henry's position was parttime. A third of what Chris is doing relates to what Henry was doing, specifically related to things like abandoned vehicles and junk in yards.” Parking enforcement will be handled by Oberlin police officers. Yates will also oversee city housing enforcement and adherence to the International Property Maintenance Code as well as ensuring compliance with social equity standards set by federal law such as the Americans with Disabilities Act. He began work March 27. “We have a lot of agencies that we work with, whether that's Neighborhood Alliance or other groups,” Hillard said. “Chris will be our main contact with them. It's a broader position and a broader conversation. Henry, in a very complex way, worked with the police department on enforcement issues.” “We valued Henry so much and he did a great job for the city,” he added. “When changes occur in an organization, it gives you a chance to reflect on how you pursue important tasks. As a result of Henry's retirement and some needs we wanted to focus on internally, we made this decision.”
School donations
The Oberlin board of education has accepted the following gifts: • $1,000 from the GL Newman Fund for any need designated by the district treasurer. • $25 from the Oberlin Rotary Club for the band and jazz band.
Photo courtesy of Theodora Nestorova
Theodora Nestorova and Emma Ellis, both 2018 graduates of Oberlin College and Fulbright recipients, attended the Fulbright Berlin Seminar. plan has always included taking an international approach to my career as a classical singer and vocal pedagogue and voice researcher,” she said. “My Fulbright year here in Vienna has solidified that desire for a trans-Atlantic connection and opened my eyes to new perspectives and possibilities.” Fulbright students design their own research projects, live with host families, and are immersed in the culture of the country they reside in during their grant year. Fulbright recipients act not just as cultural ambassadors, but as Oberlin ambassadors in other parts of the world. Petzak said Oberlin students are well-prepared for this responsibility. “Oberlin students are steeped in ethical understanding and the critical thinking, interpersonal, and professional skills needed to succeed as cultural ambassadors,” Petzak said. “They know how to engage in unfamiliar contexts, how to listen, and how to promote a sense of community. These are skills and habits of mind crucial to the ‘promotion of international goodwill’ that drives the promise of the Fulbright program.”
Many alumni have used their Fulbright year to prepare for their professional lives and enhance their Oberlin education by applying it to a global context. A history and creative writing graduate, 2018 graduate Olivia Maia Fondaras Goffman is teaching in Malaysia through a Fulbright English Teaching Assistantship. “Every day I’m in the classroom, I’m reminded of how much I love to work with adolescents,” she said. “This experience has cemented my desire to continue working with that age group in my professional life.” While some Fulbright alumni’s experiences have helped crystallize their future career plans, Petzak said many are inspired to pursue new paths. “Oberlin Fulbright alumni have exciting careers in law, education, media, finance, the arts — the range is incredibly broad. Through applying their Oberlin education in a new context, Fulbright alumni discover fulfillment and interest in challenges they had not anticipated; they discover new contexts for what is possible and change directions.”
To advertise in the classifieds, call 440-775-1611, 9-4 M-F RENTALS FREE HEAT Cozy and Convenient 1 and 2 bdrm MAPLE GROVE APTS 186–192 N. Oberlin Rd. 440-775-3098 Large 2 bedroom apt. Wellington. 440-6472672. (3:28, 4:4, 11, 18)
SERVICES Old refrigerators, appliances, scrap metal, batteries, cars--will pick up for free. Brian (440)281-
2516. (4:25) Floor repair and install carpet, wood, laminate, vinyl or ceramic. Call Joe Parr Sr. 440-647-4374 or cell 440-935-4778. (12:26)
HELP WANTED Maintenance/General Laborer Growing company with an immediate opening for Maintenance/General Laborer position. Basic maintenance skills required, Machinist/Millwright experience a plus. Must be a self-starter and
work with limited supervision. Position includes travel to customer facilities. Send resume to Intertek: 6805 West River Rd, Elyria OH 44035 or andrea@intertekllc.com. (3:28, 4:4, 11, 18) Hairstylist wanted Do you love the beauty industry? Are you looking for a rewarding career as a hairstylist? If so, then Charles Scott Salons and Spas has the job for you. Rare opportunity to join our team of dedicated stylists. Full or part time available. Minimum 3 years experience. Contact Customer Service at charlesscott.com.
(4:11, 18, 25) Help wanted for Janitorial in the Wellington/Oberlin area – part time - day shift and evening. Must pass background check. Please call 440-7480640. (4:11, 18, 25, 5:2)
LEGALS PUBLIC NOTICE Diamond Towers V LLC proposes to build a 160-foot Self-Support Communications Tower at the approx. vicinity of 7984 Leavitt Road, Amherst, Lorain County,
OH 44001. Public comments regarding potential effects from this site on historic properties may be submitted within 30 days from the date of this publication to: Trileaf Corp, Sylvia Wilson, s.wilson@ trileaf.com, 10845 Olive Blvd, Suite 260, St. Louis, MO 63141, 314-9976111. (4:11) NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING Please be advised a public hearing has been scheduled for Monday, May 20, 2019, to begin at 5:30 p.m. to discuss an application to rezone parcels #02-02-019-103-029
(033, (035), (036), (039), located on West Park Drive to allow for a City of Lorain Central Service Complex from R-1B and I-3 to I-2 zoning. The Lorain City Planning Commission met on April 3, 2019 to consider these amendment and recommended approval to Lorain City Council. Copies of all documentation related to this proposal will be on file for public inspection in the Office of the Clerk of Council, 200 West Erie Ave., Lorain, Ohio. Please contact Nancy_Greer@cityoflorain.org for additional information. N. Greer, CMC (4:11)
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WELLINGTON ENTERPRISE THURSDAY, APRIL 11, 2019 • SERVING WELLINGTON SINCE 1864
FFA BANQUET
Jonathan Delozier | Wellington Enterprise
Wellington fire district chief Mike Wetherbee addresses village council April 1, touching on a number of ways that firefighting has changed in the past decade.
Firefighters adapting to heavy duties, cancer risks New student officers sworn in
Submitted photos
Incoming FFA chapter treasurer Wyatt Collins gives outgoing officer Thomas Keller a lift.
JONATHAN DELOZIER REPORTER
A widening range of duties for firefighters as well as better understanding of health risks associated with the job were among topics Wellington fire chief Mike Wetherbee recently discussed with village council. Wellington firefighters underwent 4,528 hours of training in 2018 but the department is operating at a roughly 50 percent turnover rate among new hires. Losing recruits at that pace is a trend reaching beyond Wellington. It has led to many departments needing increased mutual aid, the chief said. Last year, the WFD fielded a record 566 calls, the fourth year in a row the department has set or tied its call record. Twenty-one of those calls involved the WFD providing mutual aid while other departments aided Wellington on calls 18 times. “The need for our services is increasing and we're running more than we ever have,” Wetherbee said. “About half of those runs are in the village and the other half is divided among the townships. We run first response to Pittsfield, so there's a lot up there.” The average Wellington firefighter has been with the department for 12.2 years, a decline from a 17-year average in 1986, Wetherbee said. In 2016, firefighters across the U.S. responded to 35.3 million calls. That represents a 300 percent increase compared to 1981 even though the population has risen by just 42 percent. Responses to actual fires represented just four percent of 2016's national calls and amounted to roughly half of 1981's total. Providing assistance in medical emergencies made up 68 percent of 2016's calls, according to the United State Fire Administration. “Our job is a little bit of everything nowadays,” Wetherbee said. “More and more keeps getting added to the training and to the manual. Training FIREFIGHTERS PAGE D2
A banquet celebrating 27 FFA members' successes was held by the Lorain County JVS on Thursday, March 21. “It is my hope that this banquet shows the students that their contribution has an impact on everyone around them, whether they realize it or not," said adviser Beth Berthold. She said FFA provides opportunities for students to become leaders capable of changing the community for the better. “Recognizing this, especially in front of their family and friends, can be the push someone needs to take on a leadership role in other aspects of their life," she said. Officers for the 2019-2020 school year were announced. They are: • President Skyler Mshabbek, a landscape and greenhouse management junior from North
New FFA officers for the 2019-2020 school year at the Lorain County JVS are Skyler Mshabbek, Seth Miller, Ky’lynn Miller, Wyatt Collins, Kaitlyn Stevens, Joshua Morlock, and Emerald Chimileski. Ridgeville. • Vice president Seth Miller, a landscape and greenhouse management junior from Amherst. • Secretary Ky’lynn Miller, an
industrial equipment mechanics junior from Avon Lake. • Treasurer Wyatt Collins, an OFFICERS PAGE D2
Village enacts parking restrictions JONATHAN DELOZIER REPORTER
A new ordinance will try to curb the number of privately-owned vehicles left on public property in Wellington for long periods of time. Village council approved the legislation April 1. It outlaws leaving personal vehicles
on public roadways or property with the principal purpose of display for sale, washing, greasing, or non-emergency repair. A car left in the parking area at Union School Park while it underwent repairs helped prompt the ordinance, said village manager Steve Dupee. “The vehicle seemed
like it was in a state of constant repair,” he said. “It didn't look like that process was coming to a quick and reasonable solution or end.” Over the course of a year, a first-time offense will carry a $10 fine that increases to $15 unless paid within 72 hours. A second offense will cost $20 and $25 after 72 hours while a third
offense will run $30 and $35 after three days. If two or more fines remain unpaid, vehicles may be impounded or immobilized until payment is made to the village. Dupee said certain scenarios will be exempted from the new law and a driver won't necessarily receive a PARKING PAGE D2
Vietnam Moving Wall display coming to town this summer JONATHAN DELOZIER REPORTER
The Vietnam Moving Wall, a national touring display since 1984, will be coming to Wellington. Union School Park will play host to the display from July 11 to 15. The wall is one of two half-size replicas of the Vietnam Veterans Memorial in Washington, D.C. It is shown every year between April and November throughout the country. Mayor Hans Schneider said
credit for bringing the structure to Wellington goes to VFW Post 6941 and post president Fran Brooks. “We had a preliminary meeting about it today with the VFW,” said Schneider. “We were just trying to gauge needs and expectations. This is going to be a big event and we'll all get together again soon. We're all very thankful for Fran Brooks and the effort he's put forth.” Wellington's American Legion will also help with the project. Those wishing to volunteer their own help toward the display are encouraged to call the VFW or American Legion.
A public planning meeting for the wall will be held at 6 p.m. on Thursday, April 25 at VFW Post 6941, 207 North Main St. This will be the first time the moving wall has come to Wellington since making its inaugural appearance in 1984 in Tyler, Texas. The program is administered by Michigan-based Vietnam Combat Veterans Ltd. “It's a very moving experience for Vietnam veterans and certainly we want to make sure we do right by them,” Schneider said. “It's a large undertaking and certainly daunting but as we go through these discussions I know we'll be able to get this right.”
SUBMIT YOUR NEWS TO: NEWS@LCNEWSPAPERS.COM
Page D2
Thursday, April 11, 2019
Wellington Enterprise
Sidewalk repair application fee a possibility JONATHAN DELOZIER REPORTER
Changes to the village's sidewalk repair program are being reviewed by officials. A nonrefundable $25 application fee may be instituted but that same amount would be credited to residents who decide to go ahead with repairs after their walkways are inspected.
The village's sidewalk program pays for 100 percent of existing concrete removal and 50 percent of labor and materials involved with new concrete installation. This year's village budget has allocated $15,000 for sidewalk repairs. Work is often contracted out rather than being handled directly by the village public works department. “The $25 fee is only nonrefundable if the resident
FIREFIGHTERS
FROM D1 for one firefighter has moved from about 240 hours a year to 270 or 275 over the past few years. There's training in (hazardous materials), incident command, emergency vehicle driving. It makes it tough to find people. We've had real problems keeping people the past seven years. It's getting tough everywhere.” “Communities like ours and the townships around here have to ask for help,” he said. “They just can't do it on their own.” A recent study by the National Fire Protection Association found that firefighters face a nine percent increased chance of cancer diagnosis and a 14 percent increase in cancer-related death compared to the rest of the population. The danger doesn't end when firefighters exit the scene of a blaze, with many cancer risks stemming from continued use of protective equipment that hasn't been properly cleaned, according to the study. “We have to start conforming to these state standards that have come with legislation about these cancer issues,” said Wetherbee. “They want us taking showers as soon as we get back from a structure fire. They want us stripping down on-scene and putting our gear in biohazard bags before we take them back to the station.” A $600,000 expansion to the Kelly Street station is set to take place this summer. The project includes installation of showers, additional truck bays, and a command office. “There's all kinds of things being put in place to keep carcinogens off of us and keep us from spreading them all over the place,” Wetherbee said. “Right now, we have nowhere to shower. This expansion will help immensely in that regard and many others.”
to have his sidewalk replacement fees added to his local income taxes. Finance director Vanya Hales said that option still exists for residents and that fees are placed with taxes by practice in the event of nonpayment. According to the Lorain County auditor’s office, sidewalk replacement will not increase homeowners’ property taxes as long as it’s not part of a “complete
modernization.” The IRS says you cannot deduct money from your federal taxes used for local benefits that tend to increase the value of your property. Local benefits listed are the construction of a new sidewalk, street, water, or sewer system. However, you can deduct taxes paid for local benefits if they’re for maintenance or repair of an existing street or sidewalk.
Plans approved for WFD expansion, Dukes stadium track, and brewery JONATHAN DELOZIER REPORTER
Conceptual plans for a trio of large projects were approved March 27 by the Wellington planning commission. Final approval was granted on plans for a 5,800-square-foot expansion of the Kelly Street fire station. It will cost roughly $600,000. The village fire budget will cover all costs with half coming from its cash reserve and the remainder expected to be financed. Plans show the addition will house new truck bays as well as men and women's locker rooms and a command office. Contractor bidding for the project is being handled by the Poggemeyer Design Group. Construction could start in the late spring or early summer. Also given the green light was installation of
This elevation drawing shows a mock-up of the front of Mechanic Street Brewing Company on East Herrick Avenue. a six-lane running track and other improvements at the Wellington Dukes' Dickson Street stadium. Schools superintendent Ed Weber said he hopes to settle on a contractor by the board of education's monthly business meeting. MKC
Architects of Powell has overseen project planning and the bidding process. The new six-lane latex track is expected to cost approximately $260,000 with other project options potentially pushing the final total to over $400,000.
Approval for a proposed brewery on East Herrick Avenue is contingent on the planning commission's imminent review of a conditional use permit. Mechanic Street Brewing Company will be located at 111 East Herrick Ave., the former home of Happy Valley Chinese Restaurant, which never reopened after an electrical fire in March 2017 severely damaged the building. The building was purchased last year for $50,000 by JPW LLC of Spencer, owned by resident Jeff Worcester. The brewery will be operated by his son, 2007 Black River High School graduate Ryan Worcester. All beer will be original and brewed on-site, with varieties expected to include India pale ale and amber ale. The establishment will not have a kitchen but snacks such as popcorn could be offered.
OFFICERS
PARKING
FROM D1 ticket if they're forced to leave their vehicle overnight on public property. “Let's say someone got a flat tire and they pulled over into a public area to replace it,” he said. “If it's obvious that this was their only solution, then that's fine. Someone can also be actively working on a vehicle. What we had in this situation was a car on jacks for many, many days.” This is not the only parking-related decision council has made this year. Yearly $60 parking passes for downtown residents were instituted by the village in January, ensuring participants that their vehicles won't be towed from off-street public parking areas after time limits have expired. The measure came about in response to some residents saying they were unable to move their vehicles due to daily schedules and medical issues. Other parts of that legislation included forbidding the passes to be used for trailers and allowing two passes per household. Passes can not be sold or given to another resident.
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chooses to not participate in the program,” said village manager Steve Dupee. “It ends up being kind of like a deposit. This new fee is about covering the cost of going out to inspect a property and for us to provide estimates to them.” An ordinance to make the proposed fee official could be on council's April 15 agenda, Dupee said. Village councilman William Bogan said he elected
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FROM D1
industrial equipment mechanics junior from Wellington. • Reporter Kaitlyn Stevens, a landscape and greenhouse management junior from Elyria. • Sentinel Joshua Morlock, an
industrial equipment mechanics junior from Columbia. • Student adviser Emerald Chimileski, a landscape and greenhouse management junior from Keystone.
The National FFA Organization is an extracurricular student organization for those interested in agriculture and leadership. It has chapters at the JVS, Wellington, and other local public schools.
CHURCH DIRECTORY All Wellington-area churches are invited to post service times in the Enterprise. Send your listing to us via email at news@ lcnewspapers.com. • First United Methodist Church, 127 Park Place, Sunday school for all ages begins at 9:30 a.m. with worship at 10:45 a.m. Choir rehearsal is from 7-8:30 p.m. on Wednesday. Caregivers Support Group meets at 2 p.m. on the first Monday of each month. Free community meals are offered from 5-6 p.m. on the last Monday of each month. Praise service starts Saturdays with fellowship at 5 p.m. and the service at 5:30 p.m. • St. Patrick Church, 512 North Main St., has Masses at 6 p.m. Saturday and 8:15 a.m. Sunday. Weekday Masses are at 8:45 a.m. Monday and 6:30 p.m. Wednesday. For more information, call 440-647-4375. • Fellowship Church, 44777 St. Rt. 18, Wellington, has Sunday worship at 10 a.m. with kids’ classes. Wednesday night group study and Foundation Youth ministry meets at 7 p.m. • First Congregational United Church of Christ, 140 South Main St., has Sunday service at 10 a.m. The first Sunday of each month is family worship and communion. • Camden Baptist Church, 17901 St. Rt. 511, Camden Township, has Sunday school at 9 a.m. and worship at 10:15
a.m. and 6 p.m. on Sundays. AWANA and “Ignite” (junior and senior high), meet at 6:45 p.m. on Wednesdays. Adult prayer meeting and Bible study begin at 7 p.m. on Wednesdays. A nursery is provided for Sunday services. • Brighton United Methodist Church has Sunday worship at 11 a.m. Bible study is held at 7 p.m. on Tuesdays. For more information, call 440-828-0773. • Rochester United Methodist Church has Sunday worship at 9 a.m. • Wellington Freewill Baptist Church, 205 Woodland St., has Sunday school at 10 a.m. and worship at 11 a.m. Sunday evening services are held at 6 p.m. and Wednesday services are at 7 p.m. • United Church of Huntington, 26677 Rt. 58, has Sunday services at 8 a.m. and 10:45 a.m., as well as Sunday school classes for all ages at 9:30 a.m. Nursery care is available during worship services and the Sunday school hour. • Lincoln Street Chapel, 139 Lincoln St., has Sunday school at 10 a.m. and worship at 11 a.m. • New Life Assembly of God, 108 West St., has Sunday school at 9:30 a.m. and worship at 10:30 a.m. A Wednesday evening family night at 7 p.m. includes Bible study, youth group, girls ministries, and Royal Rangers. • Penfield Community Church, 40775 St. Rt. 18, has Sunday school at 9:30 a.m. with Sun-
day worship at 10:30 a.m. Kidz Klubhouse for children and Fusion for youth will be held from 6:30-8 p.m. on Sundays. • Bethany Lutheran Church, 231 East Hamilton St., has Sunday worship at 10:15 a.m. with Sunday school and adult Bible class at 9 a.m. For more information, call 440-647-3736. • First Baptist Church, 125 Grand Ave., has Sunday school at 9:30 a.m. and worship at 10:45 a.m. and 6 p.m. on Sundays. The 24/7 Youth Group meets at 6:30 p.m. on Wednesdays at the youth barn. Children’s programs and adult prayer meeting and Bible study are at 7 p.m. Wednesdays at the church. A nursery is provided for all services. • Christ Community Church, 212 West Herrick Ave., has Sunday school at 10 a.m. and worship at 11 a.m. For more information, call 440-647-7641. • Brighton Congregational Church, 22086 State Rt. 511, has Sunday school at 9:45 a.m. and worship service at 11 a.m. • Pittsfield Community Church has Sunday worship service at 10:30 a.m. There is a new Mothers of Preschool children’s group. For more information, call 440-774-2162. • Angels Unaware Bible study is held at 7 p.m. on Mondays at the LCCC Wellington Center. It provides a study from Genesis to Revelation. For more information, call 419-681-6753.
Thursday, April 11, 2019
Wellington Enterprise
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Electric work begins on Taylor Street JONATHAN DELOZIER REPORTER
Work has begun on an overhead electric service upgrade in the off-street parking area near Taylor Street. The $10,000 project is expected to take roughly three weeks and will allow the
Wellington electric department to extend underground service and communication pathways to the future police station set to be located at 147 and 149 East Herrick Ave. Several three-phase transformer banks will be relocated from deteriorated utility poles with the goal of short-
ening electric service runs to downtown buildings. “This is some cleanup work of our existing system in that alleyway and public parking area,” said village manager Steve Dupee. “It will allow us to rebuild that system in the future. We're building basically a new three-phase system
that will allow us to rebuild what's already there without taking folks out of service. A three-phase system means three wires and more electricity delivered to one location.” A study on the condition of Wellington's poles is being carried out by American Energy Services. The Maryland-based firm
was recently paid $25,000 by the village to create a new map of poles and conduct a survey of electrical equipment such as transformers, street lights, and cutouts. That work will go toward creation of a GIS map of the village's electrical grid for use in infrastructure planning.
LAPOSKY LEADS DUKES BATTERS Russ Gifford | Wellington Enterprise
A seventh inning rally ensured a 13-5 Dukes win over the neighboring Black River Pirates. Cameron Brinker picked up the win from the mound, retiring six batters but allowing three runs on errors in six innings. Nick Laposky had three RBIs and the Dukes racked up two each from Mason McClellan, Ben Higgins, and Drew Unangst. For the Pirates, Carter Kocik and Timmy Young each posted two RBIs. PICTURED: Black River's Kyler Foster takes a throw from the pitcher as Wellington's Caleb Teague dives back to the base.
WHAT A COMEBACK! Russ Gifford | Wellington Enterprise
Down 5-1 in the second inning, the Dukes rallied to a 9-6 win over Firelands on the strength of Rianna Rosecrans, who had a home run and three RBIs. Wellington's Kennedi Benko notched three hits and a double, while Kendal Brasee had two hits. Lexy Coggins and Lauren Rounds also logged homers for the Falcons; Rounds put up three RBIs and Coggins had three hits and a double. PICTURED: Brooke Noss tags Firelands' Abigail Aslaksen out at second base on a delayed steal.
DUKES RALLY OVER PIRATES Russ Gifford | Wellington Enterprise
Payton Regal had a home run and three RBIs to lead the Dukes in a 10-3 victory over Black River. Teddi Hardoby had two hits, Mikayla Paramore had two hits and two RBIs, and Ally Zvara chipped in a double. Rianna Rosecrans was the winning pitcher, striking out four and allowing four hits in five innings. PICTURED: Wellington's Payton Regal sends the ball to the outfield against Black River.
Park committee searching for a planner JONATHAN DELOZIER REPORTER
A Michigan firm could be tabbed for further architectural design at Union School Park. The Wellington park planning committee met April 1 for the fist time this year and considered a $50,000 proposal from Ohm Advisors to
provide services. “This kind of proposal would take us closer to more concrete pricing,” said mayor Hans Schneider. “What we've already had done is a conceptual plan with a rough idea of what costs may be. We'll review that proposal and see where we go from here.” Early estimates for the cost of revamping the 4.6-acre park come in around $1.7
million but planners have said that number could come down as the project moves along. Last year, park designer Eric Brubeck presented his final concept plans, which included 20,000 feet of concrete walkways, 60 light posts, 31 benches, and seven flag poles. A one-third-mile jogging path would wrap around
the parks outer edges with a life-sized Spirit of '76 monument in the southwest corner. A large fountain entrance is envisioned for the site's west end facing South Main Street. No funding or timeline for construction has been determined but Schneider said grant dollars and sponsorships will be sought. “It will probably be a combination of grants, sponsor-
ships, and private donations in the end,” he said. The park received its name June 30 during a dedication ceremony as part of last year's village bicentennial celebration. The land was home to Union School in the late 1860s before the building was recommissioned as McCormick Middle School nearly a century later.
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Thursday, April 11, 2019
Wellington Enterprise
Rowland's music career quite the 'Picture' JONATHAN DELOZIER REPORTER
Courtesy photo
Ava Rowland, a 2017 Wellington High School graduate, has seen her debut album begin to gain notoriety in America and overseas.
Ava Rowland continues to strum a chord of success while building a singing-songwriting career. The 2017 Wellington High School graduate released her first album, “Polaroid Picture,” last year with its title track appearing at number five the past two weeks in music journalist Dimitar Dimitrov's top-30 list of current pop releases in America and Britain. Rowland has filmed a music video for “Polaroid Picture” and is now working on the release of two more singles. “We're not even really sure how my song got to the UK,” said Rowland. “I have a lot of followers on social media from over there, so I'm guessing some of them heard the song and passed it along
to the right people. It's so nice to know people like my music all the way over there.” Shortly after graduating from WHS, Rowland signed with PCG Universal and moved to Nashville, Tenn. She has since opened for renowned country acts all over the country including Montgomery Gentry and John Michael Montgomery. Rowland will travel in June to Kansas to open for Dylan Scott, followed by a stop in July in Missouri with Neal McCoy. She was invited in March to sing the National Anthem at the RAM National Circuit Finals Rodeo in Kissimmee, Fla. In December, she opened for Garth Brooks' daughter, Allie Colleen, at the Beachwood Ballroom in Cleveland. “That was pretty crazy,” Rowland said. “Garth wasn't there but it was just crazy opening up for his daughter.
A little before that in November, I also opened up for Emily Hackett at the same location.” Rowland recorded her second music video three weeks ago for the song “Exit Sign.” She is preparing to travel to California to produce another video, this one for “California Gypsies.” “Really, the opportunities have been such a surprise and a blessing. I'm really excited for the future. This has all been so exciting," she said. A taste of success nationally and abroad will not keep Rowland from performing in southern Lorain County this summer. She is slated for shows May 31 at Strikeout Lanes, Aug. 24 at the Lorain County Fair, and Sept. 14 at New London's Country Roads Music Festival. A Nov. 9 performance is scheduled at Red Iron Bar & Grill.
Kiwanis donates $1,200 to community efforts Wellington Kiwanis’ strong Pancake Day sales in February and a record-setting annual Morris Furcron nut sale last fall have allowed the 95-year-old civic club to contribute $1,200 to three local fundraising efforts. In honor of the late Nancy Ratliff, Kiwanis is sending $400 to the Stocker Foundation to help with funding for the Lorain County arm of Dolly Parton Imagination Library, which provides books for free each month to children up to five years old. This program is designed to increase childhood literacy through access to books, promoting kindergarten readiness and encouraging parents to read to their children every day. A countywide effort is underway to raise $95,000 this year to ensure the program’s viability.
“Nancy taught 35 years at Westwood Elementary and was a strong proponent of reading,” said Kiwanis president Terry Mazzone. “She was the southern Lorain County coordinator for the imagination library program. She had a 'Little Library' in her front yard in Wellington for neighborhood young people to exchange books and read. Nancy was our charter adviser for Kiwanis’ K-Kids at Westwood and joined her husband Ayers in Kiwanis when she retired in 2015. She leaves a large void for us to fill. We felt this donation from our pancake and nut sales was a meaningful way to honor Nancy.” Melanie Wilson, grants manager and director of special projects for the Stocker Foundation, said the Wellington zip code has one of the highest participation rates in the county at 71
percent. “Nancy Ratliff was a champion for literacy,” Wilson said. “It is an honor to accept this donation in her memory from the Wellington Kiwanis. Memorial gifts like this help to continue Nancy’s mission of helping kids in Wellington and throughout Lorain County.” Kiwanis also donated $500 to Wellington High School’s May 14 Community Day, when the entire student body will perform service work for organizations and senior citizens. The donation will help defray costs for a motivational speaker, student T-shirts, and an afternoon ice cream social at the Wellington Recreation Park for all participants. "We appreciate all of the support we receive from Kiwanis to benefit the
students at WHS," said principal Tina Drake. Kiwanis also contributed $300 to help in purchasing a twin-recumbent bike for the Landry Cole family. A Wellington High student, Cole continues to battle brain cancer. The special bike will allow her to safely ride side-by-side with a parent or a friend. The fundraising effort is being led by the Rev. Paul Wilson of First United Methodist Church and president-elect of Wellington Kiwanis. A recumbent has a chair about two feet off the ground as opposed to a typical bike seat. “The bike will give Landry the freedom to get out and about and get some good exercise,” Wilson said. “The bike will be a gift from the community that will last a lifetime.”