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AMHERST NEWS-TIMES • OBERLIN NEWS-TRIBUNE • WELLINGTON ENTERPRISE Thursday, Jan. 14, 2021

For the first time in nine months, Oberlin students to learn in person

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Volume 8, Issue 2

'There is light there'

JASON HAWK EDITOR

OBERLIN — Most students haven't stepped foot inside Oberlin's public schools since last March. Cautious during the COVID-19 pandemic, the district is among the very last in Lorain County to be fully online. Classrooms are set to light up again Tuesday, Jan. 19. But with just a week “There’s going remaining until a to be little hybrid learning model things that begins, Oberlin City Schools officials were happen that still busy Tuesday at press time hammering we’ll manage out the details of a soft on the fly... open. That’s just how "Teachers are eager life works in a to have kids back. They're ready to go," pandemic.” said Superintendent Oberlin High School David Hall — they Principal Chris Frank just didn't have the final word on how many days students will attend in person each week. That decision was expected at or following a Tuesday night meeting of the Oberlin Board of Education. Those logistics haven't stopped educators from readying their dormant buildings. Principal Chris Frank said Oberlin High School has been prepared for oneway hallway traffic, assigned seating to ensure social distancing and checking plumbing to make sure it's in working order. "We have been talking about this and planning for this since June, July," he said in a phone call Monday, talking about tentative restart plans. "There's going to be little things that happen that we'll manage on the fly. That's fine — that's just how life works in a pandemic." Hall and Frank said the results of a parent survey were being compiled over the weekend, and would be used to make final decisions on how Oberlin's hybrid learning model will work. Students won't attend four or five days a week at first, Hall said, and there will probably be more in-person hours for younger students. The most recent draft of the Oberlin City Schools plan calls for grades three to 12 to attend just one or IN PERSON PAGE A2

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Priscilla Steinberg, a resident at Kendal at Oberlin, is inoculated against the coronavirus on Dec. 29. She is set to receive the second dose Jan. 19, which will increase her resistance to COVID to 90 percent or higher.

What vaccine means for nursing home residents’ future still cloudy JASON HAWK and LAINA YOST

It's not a silver bullet. But for nursing home residents closed off from the rest of the world these past nine months, the COVID-19 vaccine is everything. It's the "first step right now and the only tool that will get us to the end of

almost — but not quite — full immunity after two weeks building up antibodies. Long-term care facilities are in the first wave for vaccinations because they are the most vulnerable Americans, said Lorain County Health Commissioner David Covell. Since the pandemic started, health VACCINE PAGE A2

Local leaders share 2021 ‘resolutions’ Whether it's losing weight, saving money, traveling or picking up a new skill, many of us make New Year's resolutions. So do local government leaders — we reached out to officials in Amherst, Oberlin and Wellington to learn what "resolutions" they have in mind for 2021, in terms of projects, policies, purchases and personnel. REPORTING BY JASON HAWK

AMHERST

OBERLIN

WELLINGTON

Mark Costilow Mayor "I would like to complete some of the projects we put aside last year because of COVID," said Costilow. "Some of the roads that were slated to be paved last year, I want to do those and others, so I want to get a lot of paving done." Amherst's budget carryover from 2020 is likely to be robust, he said, in part because the city scaled back its operations and spending as a precaution when the pandemic started.

Linda Slocum City Council President "Despite the setback that we've had with COVID-19, we are very much anxious to move ahead on initiatives," said Slocum. Inking a "social equity plan" is near the top of her list. The city has been listening to residents about ways to fight discrimination and recover from historical injustices, leveling the playing field for minorities. A big step, said Slocum, was voting in 2020 to recognize racism as a public health crisis. Now comes the

Hans Schneider Mayor Reaching the COVID-19 pandemic's endgame is priority No. 1 for Schneider. "I'd like us to return to some normalcy for businesses and residents," he said. A close No. 2 is opening the village's new police station on East Herrick Avenue. Renovations and construction are expected to wrap up in October. Expect bids for the project early this year, Schneider said. The final price tag is expected to be between

AMHERST PAGE A3

OBERLIN PAGE A3

WELLINGTON PAGE A4

INSIDE THIS WEEK

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the tunnel," said Heidi Freas, director of quality assistance at Welcome Nursing Home in Oberlin. "There is light there," she said. "We can see it." Upward of 90 percent of eligible Welcome residents received the vaccine on Dec. 29, Freas said. The first shot gives about 50 percent protection. The second dose is rolling out this month, and will afford

Amherst

Oberlin

Wellington

Hot Dog Heaven land must be rezoned • B1

Interest in boy’s home coffee business is ‘brewing’ • B1

Full STEAM ahead with McCormick changes • B1

OBITUARIES A2 • CLASSIFIEDS A4 • CROSSWORD A5 • SUDOKU A5 • KID SCOOP B6

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Thursday, Jan. 14, 2021

Lorain County Community Guide

New Russia Township meeting The New Russia Township trustees will meet at 8 a.m. on Saturday, Jan. 16 at the township administrative offices, 43600 Butternut Ridge Rd. The topic is employee reviews.

School travel plan session

An online session to review the latest Oberlin School Travel Plan will be held from noon to 1:15 p.m. on Thursday, Jan. 21. The Oberlin City Schools, city of Oberlin and Lorain County Public Health have collaborated to draft the plan, with input from residents. It’s designed to prioritize projects for funding in the 2021-2022 school year and beyond that will help students get to and from school more safely. Log on at www.tinyurl.com/OberlinTravel or call in by phone at (720) 928-9299. Attendees will have a chance to win a $25 gift card.

New commission leadership

Bryan Burgess was unanimously chosen as chair of the Oberlin Planning Commission on Wednesday, Jan. 7. Usually, the longest-tenured member of the commission is nominated to serve as chair. That would be Eric Gaines, who pre-emptively declined to take the role and instead nominated Burgess. Gaines was named vice chair. The commission has two new members in 2021: Jack Ford and Leslie Joseph.

MHARS board seeks director

The Mental Health, Addiction and Recovery Services Board of Lorain County has begun the search for its next executive director, retaining Waverly Partners of Cleveland as its executive search firm. Board member Tracey Frierson heads a nine-member ad hoc search committee that will work with Waverly Partners to identify qualified local, regional and national candidates. “Our committee has developed a profile with the experience and leadership characteristics of our preferred candidate,” Frierson said. “We are open to executives with backgrounds in mental health and substance use disorder organizations or related experience with a commitment to our mission of service to the Lorain County community.” The position profile is available at www.mharslc.org/ join-our-team. Elaine Georgas is currently serving as interim executive director of the board, which was established in 2019 through the alignment of the Alcohol and Drug Addiction Services Board of Lorain County and the Lorain County Board of Mental Health. For more information about the search, contact search consultants Heidi Milosovic and Eric Peterson at mharslc@waverly-partners.com. The MHARS board is the county agency responsible for the planning, evaluation and funding of needed programs and facilities for addiction and mental health services. It assesses community mental health and addiction needs including setting priorities and developing plans for the operation of community substance use and mental health services and programs in Lorain County.

OBITUARIES CATHERINE MARIE ELLIS (nee Wysocki), 59, of Amherst, passed away Monday, January 4, 2021 at Mercy Regional Medical Center in Lorain, following a lengthy illness. Hempel Funeral Home is handling arrangements EVERETT M. 'PAPA' BEVINS went home to be with the Lord on Sunday, January 3, 2021 in his home surrounded by his loving family under the care of Bluegrass Hospice Care.Hempel Funeral Home is handling arrangements. FRANK A. NESBIT, 87, of South Amherst, passed away Wednesday, December 30, 2020 at Welcome Nursing Home in Oberlin from complications of COVID-19. Hempel Funeral Home is handling arrangements. LEROY (NEIL) BARTLOME, 87, a resident of Milan, passed away peacefully Wednesday, January 6, 2021, at Stein Hospice in Sandusky, following a full and meaningful life.Hempel Funeral Home is handling the arrangements.

VACCINE

FROM A1

officials have tracked 892 cases among Lorain County long-term care residents, and another 657 among staff, as of Friday. There have been 92 COVID-related deaths among residents here, according to the Ohio Department of Health. "Hopefully as the vaccine starts to get out into those nursing homes, we'll have less and less and less," Covell said. Kingston of Vermilion received its first vaccines just before Christmas — an early gift to both staff and residents. Koreen Brattoli, community relations specialist at the nursing home, said everyone there is excited about the vaccine because it marks the beginning of the end of the crisis. Kingston is expecting to begin the second dosage of vaccines next week, guaranteeing an even higher safety rate for residents. They will be among the first in the country to get the second shot. Residents at Kingston have many reasons for getting the vaccine, according to staff. High on that list is getting to see grandchildren soon. The possibility of soon being able to see families has given the residents at Kingston a reason to celebrate, Brattoli said. Taking the vaccine was also important to staff to protect residents there, she said. Despite the rapid rollout of vaccinations in local nursing homes, it’s unclear when doors will reopen to visitors. "We're kind of in a holding pattern, awaiting some direction from our regula-

“Hopefully as the vaccine starts to get out into these nursing homes, we’ll have less and less and less” in terms of COVID cases. David Covell Lorain County Health Commissioner

tors," said Freas. The state, she said, is working to create protocols for what percentage of staff and the public must be vaccinated before Ohio is deemed safe enough to expose residents to life outside long-term care facilities' walls. As of Friday, the state reported 7,097 people had been vaccinated in Lorain County. The majority were working age, not nursing home residents. Statewide, there have been 221,302 vaccinations, or about 1.89 percent of Ohio's population. There are 1,379 registered long-term care facilities in Ohio. A little fewer than half are allowing indoor visits, even with 84 of the state's 88 counties in red alert status. About three-quarters are allowing residents to have window visits from family and friends, and more than a third are allowing outdoor visits. Fourteen percent are in lockdown with no visitors allowed at all. The situation is Lorain County roughly parallels what's happening in the rest of the state, but here visitations are just slightly more restricted, according to Ohio Department of Health data.

So far at the Kendal at Oberlin retirement community, 98.6 percent of residents have been vaccinated or plan to get their first shot Jan. 19, said CEO Barbara Thomas. "That's a huge plus, but it's far from what is needed," she said. Both Thomas and Freas reported a lower percentage of staff members have opted to get the vaccine so far — at Kendal, it's about 65 percent, and at Welcome it's about 35 percent, they estimated. Both said they are working hard to educate employees about the vaccine, and said they understand the initial hesitation. Neither company is requiring workers to be inoculated as a condition of employment. Thomas said safe practices must remain in place until herd immunity is achieved at not just longterm care facilities but in the general public. Herd immunity happens when enough people have been vaccinated that a virus has trouble finding suitable hosts who allow it to spread. In short, Covell said, the more people who are vaccinated, the faster life goes back to normal. Until that point is

reached, masks will still be required at Kendal, twice weekly tests will be done and visitations are severely limited, Thomas said, expressing worry for those under her care: "They can still get it. And they can still pass of COVID to other people who aren't vaccinated," she said. Thomas warned that vaccinations are a start, but the pandemic is far from over. While "cautiously preparing for the day and being patient," she anticipates at least another year of restrictions. Freas said Welcome's doors also remain closed to visitors, with few exceptions: There are "compassionate care" allowance for residents nearing death, for example. Visits by video chat have become a lifeline for residents and are likely to remain so through 2021, Freas said. "They're critical. Just to be able to put your eyes on your loved one and to be able to have that visual contact... Those are so important," she said. “An overwhelming, vast majority” of residents at Sprenger Health Care have also been vaccinated, according to Vice President of Acquisitions and Development Amy Sanfilippo. The company operates facilities in Wellington, Amherst, Lorain and Avon Lake. "The vaccine brings hope that we will soon begin to live our lives as we did before. We understand that will not happen immediately, but this is the first step in that direction,” Sanfilippo said.

IN PERSON

FROM A1 two days each week to start, Hall said. He wants to gradually work children back into the classroom as COVID-19 vaccines become more readily available this spring. There will still be a fully-online option for families that are uncomfortable with the risk of attending in person, Hall said. But for most kids, he said the benefits of being in class outweigh the risks of both the virus and a decline in academic performance and engagement Oberlin teachers have tracked in recent months. Students "need social interaction along with academic interaction. That's critical," Hall said. "They need the skills of working with others in person. Having that piece makes them better students and better people." Frank also noted "computer fatigue" that's set in after months of online learning. "There's a social, emotional aspect of school," he said. "Having kids in school is so much more than the academic pieces. It's

about creating young adults who are going to be caring and productive." Many parents have been struggling with their new roles as at-home teachers since last March, Hall said — they're doing their best, but he said kids need the benefit of licensed teachers, most of whom decades of experience. Oberlin is one of several school districts making changes this month. After rising COVID case counts pushed the Lorain County JVS completely back online in the fall, the building will return to its previous hybrid model Jan. 19. Not all classes there will be in person, but Superintendent Glenn Faircloth said last month that vocational students need to get into labs and have hands-on experience to be certified in their fields. If the virus starts to spread out of control again and the county alert level rises from red back to purple, both Oberlin and the JVS are prepared to pump the brakes, their superintendents said.

Vermilion started the fall semester online and gradually eased into hybrid learning, then a COVID spike forced students back online in November. The district will go through another evolution Jan. 19 at the start of the second semester, with students fully in person. An online option will still be available to those who want it. Like Oberlin, Lorain City Schools are also now transitioning from fully remote learning to a hybrid model. That started Monday with preschool through eighth grade students attending half-days twice per week, and Lorain High School will follow Jan. 19. Elyria Schools will start the second semester Jan. 23, but has not yet announced detailed plans. Although Superintendent Ann Schloss has said it is her hope to be in-person five days a week, the district is monitoring COVID-19 numbers and vaccine news to make a final decision.

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Thursday, Jan. 14, 2021

Lorain County Community Guide

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AMHERST

FROM A1 How much the mayor asks City Council to approve for summer roadwork will depend on the final budget numbers and income tax projections, he said. Tax collections will probably be stable and even up a bit, despite the COVID crisis' toll, Costilow said. Amherst is home to diverse businesses, many that were deemed "essential" and stayed in operation during widespread closures last spring. Jennifer Wasilk City Council President “The most important thing to me is to improve the walkability of the city,” said Wasilk. “Our sidewalk project seems like a modest project, but it’s worthwhile.” For the past several years, Amherst has sent notices to hundreds of home and business owners, requiring them to fix or repair broken sidewalks. That initiative was temporarily shelved during the pandemic, but Wasilk said she supports a plan by Mayor Mark Costilow to resume in 2021. New sidewalks are also needed, she said, though City Council has not moved on any plan to create them.

Wasilk said she would like to eventually see every street with a 35 mph speed limit have a sidewalk down the length of at least one side. “That might be 10 years down the road, but I would like to see it,” she said. Joseph Kucirek Police Chief Putting 2020 in the rear view mirror as far as possible is Kucirek’s top concern. No special programs or projects are on the agenda, he said — the “real story here” is recovering from the pandemic and getting back to normal in 2021. “COVID has affected us in many ways, but luckily the (Amherst Police Department) staff and their families have remained mostly healthy this past year,” Kucirek said. “That’s not to say we didn’t have positive tests from the staff — we did. Three to be exact. But they had little to no symptoms, which we are grateful for.” As for personnel and training, “this is one day at a time,” he said. “Keeping everyone healthy and safe is always the top goal. We would like to get back to the

hands-on, in-person training that we were doing prior to COVID and put the virtual training behind us. Virtual may be good for some things, but it really robs us from the value of in-person conversations.” Jim Wilhelm Fire Chief “We want to get over this COVID stuff. Get it gone, that’s what we need to do,” said Wilhelm. Three Amherst firefighters were out of commission because of the virus last week, he said. All were recovering, and the department had enough manpower to cover the city. Wilhelm said the fire department received its new Jaws of Life equipment, which is used during rescue operations — it can rip a car apart to free trapped riders, for example. Car rescues are frequently handled by Amherst firefighters, with both Route 2 and the Ohio Turnpike in their jurisdiction. The equipment was purchased using a $70,842 grant from the Federal Emergency Management Agency. Now Wilhelm and company are waiting to hear about another

grant application that would pay for an air pack filling machine. It would replace a unit that’s been in service since 1983. Wilhelm said the machinery is still serviceable, but should be replaced to protect his crews’ safety. Training will be a priority in 2021. Several homes on Cleveland Avenue have been marked for demolition to make way for construction of a new Hot Dog Heaven, which burned in late August . Wilhelm said he plans to run rescue and fire suppression drills inside the homes, using a machine to generate heavy smoke. Steve Sayers Schools Superintendent After recovering from the changes forced by COVID-19 last spring, the Amherst Schools will look at how tools developed during the crisis will be used far into the future. Sayers said the pandemic forced teachers to reach kids and families in new ways. The Comets Live program, for example, was developed to live-stream games and other events that were closed to the public — and it

makes sense to continue it. “That’s something we can carry forward with us even after COVID, when things return to normal,” Sayers said. “Whenever that is.” The district will turn its eyes in 2021 to developing a five-year maintenance plan for its facilities. Over the past 15 years, Amherst has gone through big changes. It’s closed old schools and a year ago opened a brand new one to reduce its footprint and rein in costs. Now it’s imperative to make sure new and upgraded facilities are cared for, so they last as long as possible, Sayers said. Amherst will also have to curb spending. “This past year has not been a good year for us financially,” said Sayers, pointing to state funding cuts and additional costs brought on by the pandemic. “We’re going to have to do some ‘right-sizing’ to get back to where we need to be,” he said. A handful of additional teachers were hired for the 2020-2021 school year because of social distancing and other safety requirements. Sayers said those positions will not remain in place. The personnel may, however. He said he believes layoffs will not be necessary, and that retirements and resignations will balance staffing numbers instead.

OBERLIN

FROM A1 difficult part — finding ways to fix it. Housing is prime example of an area where social equity should be improved, Slocum said. "How do we determine what kind of new homes we'd like built? Who can they help?" she said. "It could also affect our zoning decisions. How do our zoning policies affect a wide range of economic interests?" Sidewalks will be a priority in 2021. Slocum said new sidewalks have been a topic in Oberlin for more than a decade. Now a committee is working to develop an "active transportation plan" to determine where sidewalks would provide the most benefit. "We still have some places in the city where there are no sidewalks, where it is not safe for pedestrians to walk," she said. "I think it's our obligation to address that." An ordinance long on the books requires sidewalks to be installed whenever properties are developed with new structures. No such ordinance exists for aging neighborhoods. Rob Hillard City Manager The 2021 budget is chock full of projects. Hillard said among the most important is repaving of Grafton Street and a nearby portion of Park Street from Grafton to Vine Street.

Washington Street, Monroe Street, Colony Drive and Hawthorn Drive are all also on the list for resurfacing. Developing a social equity plan has been Hillard's goal the last two years. He wants to level the playing field for Oberlin residents of all backgrounds when it comes to economic opportunities, education, police relationships, housing, transportation, justice, mental health, environmental sustainability and other areas. "The end goal is to continue to raise our consciousness about ways to help protected classes," he said. "Oberlin does a good job of evaluating through that particular lens, but we can always do better." Other projects high on his priority list include: • Working on a comprehensive plan to guide Oberlin through the next decade and beyond. • Designing and installing pedestrian signals at the corner of Lorain and Professor streets, as well as West College and Professor. • Installing a new playground at Spring Street Park. • Teaming with Providing Oberlin With Efficiency Responsibly, Efficiency Smart and other organizations to develop a weatherization program to help renters and homeowners. Ryan Warfield Police Chief Revisiting the Oberlin Police Department's use of force policy is a top priority for Warfield,

especially in light of strained police relations due to shootings across the nation. "We know the governor is going to have some new stuff pertaining to training," he said. "We know he is obviously going to have the hot button issues of duty to intervene, all the things people are concerned about now." Once the pandemic is over, officers should have a more active role in talking with high school students about race and justice, Warfield said. Last February, a talk about those issues at Oberlin High School proved prescient. Warfield sat down for a hard conversation with students in February, just before justice marches were organized across the United States in response to the death of George Floyd at the hands of Minneapolis police. Warfield said he also wants to reach out to young men to help them make positive decisions about what it means to be a man, a father and to be responsible for their health and finances. "If we build a relationship with them early, hopefully we won't have to build a different relationship with them later," he said. Oberlin police are getting two hybrid Ford cruisers this year, and are also wrapping up a long upgrade to the station's dispatch center. It includes new equipment, furniture and carpet and completion has taken longer than expected because of the pandemic. Robert Hanmer Fire Chief Two major purchases are on

Hanmer's plate this year — a new ladder truck with a more-than $1 million price tag to replace the Oberlin Fire Department's 1998 model, and a $400,000 rescue truck to replace an existing 2001 model. "We've been working on getting these now for a couple of years, putting together the financing," Hanmer said. "These aren't things you can go out and order and get the next day." Both trucks must go to City Council for approval. Then it will take about a year to have the vehicles built. Hanmer said he's also looking forward to getting firefighters back into the community this year as the COVID-19 crisis hopefully winds down. Most of his personnel have been vaccinated, he said, and are eager to start holding public events again as mass vaccinations are rolled out. David Hall Schools Superintendent Oberlin's new elementary school is on schedule to open in Fall 2021, and walking across its threshold will be the highlight of the year for Hall. "It's going to be great for our

community to go in there and see all the new opportunities that are available," he said. In a construction meeting Jan. 7, he learned the project is still on track and on budget, in large part because weather has cooperated. An opening ceremony is being planned for August, and classes will begin late that month for students in preschool through fifth grade. This spring, the Oberlin Board of Education is expected to start talking about the next phase of its long plan to relocate the district's schools to a single campus. Hall said the board needs to start developing a timeline for construction of a school for grades six to 12. Hall said he's also excited to put $1.5 million in state literacy grant funding to work. After decades of struggling with reading scores, Oberlin will double down on building foundational skills for students in kindergarten through eighth grade. The money will be used to hire a literacy coach, train teachers and pay for a curriculum overhaul. Changes will be put in place over a five-year period. Teachers will also work this year to combat learning loss among Oberlin students due to the COVID-19 pandemic. High online attendance at the start of the school year has "drifted off," Hall said, and students have become less engaged, which has translated into some lower grades, especially in math. Reclaiming lost ground will be important, he said: "We're hopeful once the vaccinations start getting out, we can start getting back on track."

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Thursday, Jan. 14, 2021

Lorain County Community Guide

Guidance counselors think outside of the box FOR THE NEWS-TRIBUNE

OBERLIN — Counselors at the Oberlin City Schools are thinking outside of the box, focusing on different ways to help students during the COVID-19 pandemic. At both Eastwood and Prospect Elementary schools, Ben Eiskamp is delivering his classroom guidance curriculum to all classes via Zoom. Since the beginning of the school year, students have discussed and practiced social emotional learning. They are working on empathy and compassion. “We learn how to identify others' feelings, to look at the world

through different perspectives and to think about what are the kinds of things we can do or say when someone is feeling down,” Eiskamp said. Now he’s turning his focus to working with students to explore strong emotions and how to manage them in healthy ways. “It is amazing to see that even in the virtual environment, our students understand the importance of getting along with others,” Eiskamp said.”Now more than ever, we need to make sure to provide our students with the tools they need to establish a positive mentality.” Langston Middle School counselor Emily Jindra is working on a new program called You Belong. It's closely tied to a nationwide program born from

the Sandy Hook school shooting tragedy that took place almost exactly eight years ago on Dec. 14, 2012. The project is funded by a grant from the Lorain County Board of Mental Health. Langston Middle School is one of several middle schools in Lorain County participating in the program. You Belong "places importance upon improving the school climate and finding ways for all students to feel connected and to let them know that others care about them,” Jindra said. It is a student-led group that aims to come up with fun and creative ways to help foster a caring, connected and supportive environment in the school, even in a virtual setting.

This year, You Belong plans to host virtual events, such as “fun lunches’ where students can log into Zoom to play games and interact with each other; partner with the Mad Factory to host virtual improv theater games; and even organize a school dance. “My favorite part of the program is that the ideas come from the students, so not only do the You Belong student leaders get the opportunity to take ownership of helping create a positive school environment, their ideas are a lot more creative and intouch with what other middle schoolers would find fun and engaging,” Jindra said. Working with Oberlin High School students, guidance counselors Suzzane Nock and Jen-

nifer Bracken have been making sure students are engaged and having their needs met while attending remotely. “We have regular check-ins with students in need, and Oberlin High School has implemented targeted intervention days with students who are academically in need, allowing us to reach these students in person,” Nock said. Bracken said that despite COVID-19, students are attending in-person as well as virtual college visits. “We are seeing students applying and getting accepted every day to colleges,” she said. “Even with the pandemic, this is important and it is important for students to pursue their dreams.”

Ortiz is Oberlin Rotary Club's Senior of November SARAH COLSON OBERLIN HIGH SCHOOL

The Oberlin Rotary Club honors a high school senior each month during the school year. These young people are recognized for character and positive attitudes. The Oberlin Rotary Club will donate $25 to a charity or project of the student’s

choosing in their name. The Oberlin High School senior honored for the month of November was Ophelia Ortiz. She has played the bells in marching band throughout her high school career. She has participated in various roles, including squad leader, drill captain and choreography captain. She has also been in

cheerleading for three years. Ortiz was also selected for the National Honor Society. Outside of school, Ortiz has been active in 4-H, serving as club secretary and selected for the 2020 Junior Fair Royal Court. She has won Best of Breed and Reserve Best of Breed for her pet rabbit projects.

She performed in The MAD Factory production of "Heathers." You can also find Ortiz working as a server at Catrina’s Mexican Restaurant. Believing in service, Ortiz has been a member of the Interact Club, the community service club of OHS, sponsored by the Oberlin Rotary Club. She has also been involved in community service

projects through 4-H and as co-president of the Do Something Club at OHS. With the Do Something Club, she helped organize a "Jeans for Teens" drive. The club collected 22 pairs of jeans, which were distributed at a local mall. After graduation, Ortiz plans to study either biochemistry or biomedicine. She aspires to one day be a veterinarian.

Ophelia Ortiz

WELLINGTON

FROM A1

$1.6 million and $2 million. Wellington police have long outgrown their tiny station next to Town Hall. "The police station is cramped," Schneider said. "They're on top of each other. It's questionable in my mind whether we're doing our best work in there." Opening the newer, much larger station will fulfill a promise to village residents, he said — they voted for a tax increase intended to see the project through, and allowing the project to drag out wouldn't be right.

water storage tank on Erie Street. Dating back to 1951, "Thank tank is well beyond its useful life," he said. Further improvements to the village's raw water pump station are also needed in 2021, Dupee said. Water is pumped out of the Charlemont Creek and into the upground reservoir each year to maintain Wellington's supply. New pumps "will be much more energy efficient and of course much more reliable," said Dupee.

Steve Dupee Village Manager Moving the police department to a larger, "more appropriate" facility is also at the top of Dupee's to-do list. "The most important part is that the village is going to be able to do better police work because of this new facility," he said. Also important to Dupee is the replacement of a 300,000 gallon

Tim Barfield Police Chief "We're certainly looking forwarded to having a new home," said Barfield, perhaps the biggest champion of the plan for Wellington's new police station. Space at the old station is so tight that his office has long since become a storage area. Two offices are just "expanded closets," Barfield said, and it's nearly

impossible to seat any two people in the same room. "We're all on top of each other," he said. "When the public comes in here for cases, it's difficult to find any quiet places for conversation." Last week, Barfield planned to meet with state officials to the architect to go over details of the new station's holding facilities. Mike Wetherbee Fire Chief Construction on an addition to the Kelly Street fire station is on track to finish in early- to midFebruary, according to Wetherbee. The new area has been completely enclosed, and a structure is being built to connect the old station, he said. "Basically, they're putting a lot of finishing touches on the outside," the chief said. "They're inside doing a lot of the important work with electric and so on... It's moving pretty quickly now." Wetherbee said the extra square footage will allow firefighters

to spread out and organize the equipment they have stored: "It's going to give us an actual bay area where we can do decontamination after we come back from a structure fire or an accident." Showers and locker rooms are an important piece of the puzzle. They are part of a push by the Ohio Bureau of Workers' Compensation the last few years to lower the prevalence of cancer and other diseases among fire personnel. Wetherbee said he wants to have a grand opening ceremony "once the weather breaks," likely in June. Ed Weber Schools Superintendent Recovering from the COVID-19 pandemic won't mean just reopening school doors in 2021. Weber said students will need extra supports as they return to school in-person, including help academically, socially and emotionally.

"For us to have a bright future, we need a path that is illuminated," he said. "We know we've had some academic success, and we know COVID then set us back a bit. So we'll be focused on reclaiming it." Facilities will also be a focus this year. Weber said the district's buildings have needs that must be addressed. Several attempts to pass levies to fix problems at Westwood Elementary and Wellington High School have failed in recent years, and problems there haven't gone away. "I think we did a pretty solid job with educating the community of the need," he said. "It just wasn't something they were willing to say yes to." It's time to look at other options, he said. After working with the Wellington Schools the past six months, the Ohio Facilities Construction Commission will present its ideas to the Board of Education in a special session at 6 p.m. on Tuesday, Jan. 19. Weber said he does not know what ideas it will float, or whether the school board will be receptive.

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LEGALS AMHERST LEGALS 0-20-28 Adding Chapter 909, utilities in public right of ways, to the Codified Ordinances of the City of Amherst 0-20-29 Adding Chapter 925 of Pubic Ways for small cell wireless facilities and wireless Support structure to the Codified Ordinances of the City of Amherst 0-20-30 Adding Chapter 927, Small Cell Design guidelines, to the Codified Ordinances of The City of Amherst. 0-20-31 Authorizing Mayor to enter into contract for professional services with Bramhall Engineering and Surveying Company relating to the Cooper Foster Park Rd Drainage Improvement Project (Phase I) and authorizing and directing the Safety/Service Director to solicit bids for such project and award the contract to the lowest responsive and responsible bidder 0-20-32 Authorizing the Mayor and Safety/Service Director to enter into a Cooperative Agreement with the City of Lorain for the Cooper Foster Park Road Improvements

Project. 0-20-33 Authorizing and directing the Safety/Service Director to submit an application to the OPWC for State Issue 1 (round 35) funds for the years 2021 for roadway improvements and repairs on Milan Avenue and Cleveland Street 0-20-34 Approving the 2021 Interim Budget 0-20-35 Establishing the salaries and benefits for the Amherst Fire Department effective 1/1/21 and repealing all ordinances in conflict herewith. R-20-07 Approving the expenditure of Cares Act Funds for subgrant agreement with Lifecare Ambulance Services, Inc., for necessary expenses incurring due to the public health emergency with respect to COVID-19. R-20-08 Approving the expenditure of Cares Act Funds for subgrant agreement with Amherst Exempted Village Schools, for necessary expenses incurring due to the public health emergency with respect to COVID-19. R-20-09 Approving the expenditure of Cares Act Funds for subgrant agreement with St. Joseph Parish School, for necessary expenses incurring due to the public health emergency with respect to COVID-19. R-20-10 Approving the expenditure of Cares Act Funds for subgrant agreement with Firelands Local School District, for necessary expenses incurring due to the public health emergency with respect to COVID-19. R-20-11 Approving the expen-

diture of Cares Act Funds for necessary expenditures incurring due to the public health emergency with respect to COVID-19. The complete text of the above listed ordinances and resolutions may be viewed in the office of the Clerk of Council during regular business hours. Olga Sivinski, Clerk of Council 206 S. Main St. Amherst, OH. 440-988-2420 L.C.C.G. 1/14/21 20676264

PUBLIC NOTICE TO THE OWNERS, OCCUPANTS, MORTGAGEES, LESSEES AND ALL PARTIES HAVING AN INTEREST IN THE REAL PROPERTY LISTED HEREIN BELOW: The list of the properties below have been deemed dangerous buildings in the City of Lorain. As a dangerous building, the building constitutes a public nuisance. City of Lorain Ordinance Chapter 1523 defines these properties as Unsafe Buildings, according to Lorain Codified Ordinance 1523.01. These properties are considered Dangerous Buildings and according to LCO 1523.03 shall be considered Nuisances to the City of Lorain. Pursuant to LCO 1523.05, the Chief Building Official (CBO) of the City of Lorain has declared the properties listed below as dangerous buildings and by virtue thereof public nuisances. A hearing is scheduled on

the 3rd Thursday of January the 21th 2021 at 9 AM at Lorain City Council Chambers on the first floor located at: 200 W. Erie Ave Lorain, Oh 44052 before the Lorain Demolition Board (Board) pursuant to LCO 1523.06 for the purpose of presenting the determination of the CBO to the Board for its determination. All parties who have an interest in such parcels are entitled to attend and participate in the hearing. 906 Dewitt St 3421 Livingston Ave 3890 Lexington Ave 2213 E 32nd St 334 W 23rd St 338 W 23rd St 400 W 23rd St 346 W 23rd St 2380 Apple Ave L.C.C.G. 1/14-21/21 20676043

tomated Traffic Enforcement Program in the City of Lorain. Ordinance 1-21 Repealing Ord 101-08 and adopting and replacing Ch. 923 of the Lorain Codified Ordinances establishing floodplain management and measures. 2-21* Authorizing the S/S Director to enter into a sub-grant agreement w/ Lake County Ohio Port Authority and Economic Development Authority and ODNR. 3-21* Appropriation (Charter Commission Expenses). 4-21 Repealing Title 1, 5, 7, 9, 11, 13, 15, 17 and 19 of the Planning & Zoning Code & all ordinances in conflict and est. a new Planning & Zoning Code. (*Denotes legislation was passed as an emergency.) L.C.C.G. 1/14-21/21 20676091

PUBLICATION OF LEGISLATION The following is a summary of legislation adopted by Lorain City Council on Dec. 21, 2020. The complete text of each item may be viewed or purchased in the Clerk of Council Office @ Lorain City Hall, 200 W. Erie Ave., Lorain, OH, during normal business hours or contact Nancy Greer @ 204-2050 (Nancy_Greer@cityoflorain. org). The following summary of legislation passed has been reviewed/approved by the Law Director for legal accuracy as required by state laws. Resolution 41-20* Approving the necessity of acquiring, constructing and improving certain public improvements

PUBLICATION OF LEGISLATION The following is a summary of legislation adopted by Lorain City Council on Jan. 4, 2021. The complete text of each item may be viewed or purchased in the Clerk of Council Office @ Lorain City Hall, 200 W. Erie Ave., Lorain, OH, during normal business hours or contact Nancy Greer @ 204-2050 (Nancy_Greer@cityoflorain. org). The following summary of legislation passed has been reviewed/approved by the Law Director for legal accuracy as required by state laws. Resolution 1-21 Supporting the investigation and further study of implementing an Au-

owned by Red Brick Development, LLC in the City of Lorain in cooperation w/ Lorain, Elyria Twp ESID. 42-20* Approving the necessity of acquiring, constructing and improving certain public improvements owned by Norcare Enterprises, Inc. in the City of Lorain in cooperation w/ Lorain, Elyria Twp ESID. Ordinance 158-20Auth the S/S Director to enter into a contract w/ lowest/best bidder for Washington Ave Bikeway Project. 159-20 Auth the S/S Director to enter into a contract w/ lowest/best bidder for Redhill Boosted Pressure Zone Improvement project. 160-20* Assessing the cost to abate nuisance by cutting noxious weeds during current calendar year. 16120* Auth the appropriation of money from the General Fund for the purpose of advancing monies to eliminate negative cash balances in various funds of the City of Lorain. 162-20* Amending Ord. 94-20 to auth a maximum principal amount of $2,745,000 of health benefits claims bonds. 163-20* Auth the S/S Director to enter into am MOU between the City & FOP Lodge #3 in accordance w/ the provision of Article 31-wages (exceptional appointments). 164-20* Auth Auditor to pay invoice submitted by the Utilities Dept that invokes the Then & Now Certification Exception process & pay said invoice. 16520 Auth S/S Director to enter into a contract w/ the lowest/ best bidder for construction of planned active transportation plan/Safe Route to School

project. 166-20* Auth S/S Director to enter into an agmt w/ City of Lorain & County of Lorain, auth the collection & transportation of water to the City of Lorain WWTP for sale of a portion of water to Lorain County (104 agrmt). 167-20 Est. Part 17- FeesChapter 1701.01 Administration of the Lorain Codified Ordinances. 168-20 Repealing Ch. 1219 of Codified Ordinances - Fees, Charges & Expenses. 169-20 Repealing Ords 40-14 & 94-18 and Lorain Codified Ordinance 1501.07, Permit Fees & est new Title Three, Building Permit Fees as Ch. 1703 of the Lorain Codified Ordinances. 170-20 Amending Ord. 22-18 and Lorain Codified Ordinance Ch. 561 "Litter & Litter Removal". 171-20* Determining to proceed w/ acquisition, construction & improvement of certain public improvements owned by Red Brick Development, LLC in cooperation w/ Lorain, Elyria Twp ESID. 172-20* Levying Special Assessments for the purpose of acquiring, constructing, equipping and improving certain public improvements owned by Red Brick Development, LLC in cooperation w/ Lorain, Elyria Twp ESID. 173-20* Determining to proceed w/ acquisition, construction & improvement of certain public improvements owned by Norcare Enterprises Inc. in cooperation w/ Lorain, Elyria Twp ESID. 174-20* Levying Special Assessments for the purpose of acquiring, constructing, equipping and improving certain public im-

provements owned by Norcare Enterprises Inc. in cooperation w/ Lorain, Elyria Twp ESID. 175-20* Auth S/S Director to enter into the lease/purchase agmt w/ Provision LLC w/o competitive bid for the lease/ purchase of body cams for a total of $267,450 ($41,400 annually for 5 yrs) from Police Levy. 176-20 Auth the S/S Director to purchase w/o competitive bid 1 forklift for Water Purification Plant. 177-20* Auth S/S Director to apply for & accept grant from Jobs Ohio Inclusive Project Planning Program Application administered by Team NEO. 178-20* Auth the City of Lorain to enter into CRA Tax Abatement agmt w/ Broadway Management LLC. 179-20 Amending Ord. 88-16 & Ch. 557 "Weeds" if the Lorain Codified Ords. 180-20* Appropriation. 181-20* Appropriation- 2021 Budget. 182-20 Amending Ords. 54-20, 16819, 151-19, 40-19 and 47-18 Section 15.3.7 Mayor-Safety/ Service & Ord. 16-20 Section 16.4 (HR Generalist & Admin Assistant) (*Denotes legislation was passed as an emergency.) L.C.C.G. 1/7-14/21 20675839

LEGAL NOTICE In the Court of Common Pleas, Domestic Relations Division, 225 Court Street, Elyria, Lorain County, Ohio, 44035. Case No. 20DR088644. Natasha TownsendSeymour, 2342 East 35th Street, Lorain, OH 44055,

Plaintiff vs. Irving Seymour, Defendant. Irving Seymour, whose last known address 340 Cornell Avenue, Elyria, OH 44035 but whose address other than as set forth is unknown and cannot with the exercise of reasonable diligence be ascertained, and upon whom service of summons cannot be had in the State of Ohio, will take notice that on December 17, 2020, Natasha TownsendSeymour, as Plaintiff, filed her complaint against him in the Court of Common Pleas, Domestic Relations Division, of Lorain County, Ohio, being Case No. 20DR088644, requesting a divorce from Defendant, that the Court make a fair and equitable distribution of the parities' property and debt, and an award of a reasonable sum for any costs, expenses, and attorney's fees in this action, and for such other relief as shall be proper and necessary, based upon the grounds that the parties are incompatible, and for other grounds under RC § 3105.01 Said above named defendant will further take notice that he is required to answer the complaint on or before the 4th day of March, 2021. NATASHA TOWNSENDSEYMOUR, Plaintiff By: CHRISTOPHER P. REWAK, (#0085957), 300 Fourth Street, Elyria, OH 44035, Attorney for Plaintiff L.C.C.G. 12/31/20; 1/7-14-2128; 2/4/21 20675680

Thursday, Jan. 14, 2021

LETTERS Gifts buoyed OCS through the holidays To the editor: Oberlin Community Services would like to thank the Oberlin and Lorain County communities for all their support for our food programs this past holiday season. As for everyone, this year has been especially challenging at OCS. However, this year more than any other, we were buoyed by support from our community. Donations came from all directions: vans of dry goods from Oberlin College Campus Safety and Oberlin City Schools, stretchers of food and gifts from Mercy Health Allen Hospital staff, meals from local restaurants like Aladdin’s and Bingo, and streams of donations from individuals, some whom we already know and love, and others we just met. We’d like to give a special shout-out to Oberlin IGA and owner Leo Braido. IGA’s annual holiday food drive was an unmitigated and unprecedented success — all told, we received over 500 bags of dry goods. These were instrumental in making sure we could distribute holiday meals to over 450 Oberlin families this year. We’re grateful to Leo, his staff, and everyone who purchased bags for OCS! We truly feel blessed to serve a community that shows such solidarity and resourcefulness. Thank you from the bottom of our hearts, and we look forward to seeing what the new year brings! Liv Hanson Oberlin Community Services Food Programs Coordinator

Honored to be vaccinated To the editor: I wish to compliment the Lorain County Health Department for the COVID clinic held at New Russia Township Hall on Jan. 6. It was efficient, orderly, and well done. I am deeply honored to have received my first dose of the vaccine at that time. The shortest distance between two points is a straight line. The COVID vaccine is our straight line — and the chance to fight together and have some normalcy back in our lives. Our darkest days can be our finest hours. Let us remember the ones we have lost or sickened from this virus. I pray for the day when I can once again see your face and shake your hand. Bill Doane Community Pharmacist

'Gang of Five' should resign To the editor: The “Ohio Gang of Five” should resign. Claims of voter fraud to alter the November election will not be forgotten. This group of Jim Jordan, Bill Johnson, Bob Gibbs, Warren Davidson and Steve Chabot joined more Republicans who were in the process of challenging ballot results just prior to the assault on the Capitol. In Ohio, “No political party or group which advocates, either directly or indirectly, the overthrow, by force or violence, of our local, state, or national government or which carries on a program of sedition or treason by radio, speech or press or which has in any manner any connection with any foreign government or power or which in any manner has any connection with any group or organization so connected or so advocating the overthrow, by force or violence, of our local, state or national government or so carrying on a program of sedition or treason by radio, speech or press shall be recognized or be given a place on the ballot in any primary or general election held in the state or in any political subdivision thereof.” ORC3517.07 Raised in Washington, D.C., three years military overseas under a dictator and retired from both state and federal government, I feel that Donald Trump should be impeached. The “Ohio Gang of Five” can expect that if and when they file for reelection in less than a year, challenges will be made to ascertain if they are patriots or political anarchists bent on abolishing our democratic government and law. Anthony Mealy

Lorain County Community Guide

Got a clunker? Donate it to the FFA and help the Ronald McDonald House HENRIETTA TWP. — Firelands FFA students are asking for donations of used vehicles and farm equipment to benefit Ronald McDonald House Charities of Central Ohio. Their efforts are part of an Ohio FFA Community Clunker Cleanup fundraiser. The chapter that secures the most donations by April 1, with at least five vehicles, will receive a $10,000 prize from Telhio Credit Union. Firelands FFA placed second in the state last year, trailing the grand prize winner by just one donation. To support the Firelands students' mission, call 800-332-8201 and schedule pick up of your used vehicle or equipment and use the

promotional code #OH0088. All car donations must be accompanied by the title. Funds raised through auction of the donated items will directly support Ronald McDonald House Charities families, and donations may qualify for tax deductions. “We encourage the Firelands community to share this opportunity with family and friends as every vehicle donated makes a life-changing impact,” said FFA adviser Shanna Finnegan. “We were amazed at the support we had last year and couldn’t believe how simple the donation process was. We are excited to help clean up our community again, while also helping more families in their time of need.” FFA is a youth organization

dedicated to fostering leadership, personal growth and career success. Its members are preparing for leadership roles in agricultural science, business and technology. Firelands FFA has 92 members who are part of the Ohio FFA Association. Ronald McDonald houses across the nation provide a home-awayfrom-home for families of children who are hospitalized. The charity also operates a Ronald McDonald Care Mobile in Central Ohio — a traveling medical clinic providing primary care to children who have a hard time getting to the doctor. For more information about the Community Clunker Clean up, email sfinnegan@firelandsschools.org.

POWER programs continue with Sustainable Reserve Fund grant Thirty homeowners have gotten a big boost — an average of $2,100 each, and just $700 out of pocket — in the past 18 months, with help from Providing Oberlin With Efficiency Responsibly. The grassroots organization gives guidance on how to make cost-saving energy improvements on a budget. POWER is set to continue through 2024 after securing a grant from Oberlin’s Sustainable Reserve Fund. “The biggest thing that stops people from making their homes more efficient is money,” said Energy Advocate Greg

Jones. “Now we can help address that problem for all Oberlin residents.” Founded in 2009, POWER is a nonprofit that can provide financial assistance to all Oberlin residents, but has a focus on serving the low-income community. Homeowners who are below 150 percent of the federal poverty level are eligible for Warm Choice, a program that covers 100 percent of the cost of insulating and weatherizing a home. Many fall above this cut-off yet still struggle financially, Jones said. Everyone qualifies for some financial assistance, from 25 percent of

the costs not covered by existing efficiency programs, up to 100 percent of the cost. There is no application or additional paperwork required. Oberlin's Sustainable Reserve Fund was created by voters in 2017 to fund programs that contribute to the city’s Climate Action Plan. “Clearly the need for weatherizing homes in Oberlin still exists," said city Sustainability Coordinator Linda Arbogast. "I am thrilled that our Council members have agreed to fund POWER for four more years to continue the momentum that was built

up for the program.” Energy efficiency provides long-term environmental benefits by reducing the use of natural gas, and by reducing the electricity grid’s peak load, when dirty market energy is purchased to meet demand. Energy efficiency also helps lower energy bills. All Oberlin residents, including those who rent, are eligible for POWER’s free services and the new home efficiency grants. For more information or to schedule a walkthrough home assessment, call Jones at (440) 935 0995.

THE GRAMMY AWARDS ACROSS 1. Nothing-but-net in basketball 6. “Zip it!” 9. The ____ in Switzerland 13. Ann Patchett’s novel “Bel ____” 14. “Mele Kalikimaka” wreath 15. Ten million, in India 16. Fire in one’s soul 17. Crematorium jar 18. Trail follower 19. *Artist with most 2021 Grammy nominations 21. *Powerhouse Award 2020 winner with six 2021 nominations 23. *____ Sayer’s “You Make Me Feel Like Dancing” 24. Pettifoggery 25. Lending letters 28. “Through” in text 30. Butcher’s discards 35. Fortune-telling coffee remnant 37. Crew equipment 39. Asian goat antelope 40. “Polar Express” roof rider 41. Toughness 43. *Two-time Grammy winner Kelly 44. Watch word? 46. *Best New Artist nominee Cyrus 47. “Clueless” catch phrase 48. *Black Pumas’ nominated record 50. Hand-me-down 52. NYC time zone 53. *____ Loaf, winner of one Grammy 55. Nirvana’s “Come as You ____” 57. *Post Malone’s twice-nominated work 61. *Venue of 2021 Grammy Awards 65. Dig, so to speak 66. Reunion bunch 68. Silk-patterned fabric 69. On Elsa of Arendelle’s head 70. Historical period 71. Join the cast of, two words 72. Balkan native 73. Dog’s greeting 74. Bed cover DOWN 1. Union foe 2. Stuff for sale, sing.

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3. Capital of Indiana, for short 4. Counter seat 5. “The Green ______” 6. Swerve 7. *”I Can’t Breathe” artist 8. Delhi language 9. Seed coat 10. Trickster in Norse mythology 11. Like “Dead Poets Society” school 12. Blood fluids 15. Winnowing remains, pl. 20. Salmon variety, pl. 22. Flying saucer acronym 24. Event attendance 25. Kind of committee, two words 26. Movie trailer, e.g. 27. He had no cause? 29. *”____ on Me” by Lady Gaga and Ariana Grande 31. Cheese on Peloponnese

32. “...when out on the lawn there ____ such a clatter...” 33. Large-eyed lemur 34. *”Folklore” nominee and recipient of 10 Grammys 36. Nancy Sinatra’s boots 38. Sinbad’s seven 42. Semolina source 45. Cloth armband 49. Get the picture 51. Movie genre, pl. 54. Off kilter 56. Longer than #70 Across 57. A and B, e.g. 58. Doing nothing 59. *Katy Perry’s 2013 Grammy-nominated song 60. Stewie Griffin’s bed 61. Unforeseen obstacle 62. Low-cal 63. One of Great Lakes 64. Email folder 67. Composer Gershwin

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Lorain County Community Guide

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Thursday, Jan. 14, 2021

Officials, party members react to riots at the Capitol

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Local leaders reacted last Wednesday to riots in Washington, D.C., that led to a breach of the U.S. Capitol. Lorain County's three officials in Congress and both of the Ohio senators were at the Capitol at the time the protests began. In addition, a group of local Republicans left at 1 a.m. Wednesday to drive to D.C. Among those was Kirsten Hill of Amherst, chairwoman for the local TEA Party and State Education Board member. Hill said more than 300 went from the Lorain County and Cleveland area. Some riding the bus came from Michigan, western Ohio and even some from Wisconsin. The group attended President Donald Trump's speech at noon, located near the Washington Monument. Toward the end of the speech, around 1 p.m., Hill said they began making their way to the U.S. Capitol, where Congress was convened inside and speakers were lined up outside. As the group neared the reflection pond, Hill said they could see a lot of people had already made their way to the Capitol. "It was pretty incredible that all those folks were there," she said. She said there were temporary bleachers set up outside the building, possibly for the upcoming inauguration. Hill said all kinds of people with flags were on the bleachers and calling people to come in closer. "You kind of watched the thing unfold," Hill said. She said there was word of alleged "infiltrators" who weren't there for "what the rest of us were there for," Hill said. She said people can get caught up with crowds. A friend that Hill said she did not see Wednesday had texted her and said a group of people had separated early from Trump's speech and made their way to the Capitol, which Hill said she thought was strange. Several Republicans have begun to spread word that it was actually antifa that went in to the Capitol, but there is no evidence to support that. Instead, several of the protesters are recognized Trump and QAnon supporters. Hill's group stayed close, she said, and none went into the Capitol building, she said. They were walking up on the lawn and saw someone was bringing some sort of tear gas, and pink stuff that Hill said looked like a fire extinguisher. "We're not damaging property," she said. "That's high on our list. We respect people's property and the public property." Hill was not monitoring the news, and said she didn't know what was happening inside the Capitol, only outside. She learned a woman had been shot — she later died — by Capitol Police after people started getting news alerts. "It was pretty dynamic," she said. "It was kind of in a slow motion." Hill said she guessed it made an impression on elected officials, although she hadn't yet seen reactions from anyone yet. It certainly made an impression on lawmakers inside the Capitol building, who were forced to evacuate as a mob forced its way past police and into both Chambers and congressional offices. Rep. Bob Gibbs, R-Lakeville, who had planned to object to the certification of the Electoral College vote, said in a statement that he "absolutely and completely" condemns the riots. "These violent and illegal actions must be met with swift justice," the statement said. He urged everyone "to let law enforcement do their job and to leave the Capitol area. This is shameful and unAmerican.” Rep. Jim Jordan, R-Urbana, who also had planned to object to the certification of the Electoral College, sent out a short statement. "Americans support peaceful protests, First Amendment activity, and the men and women of law enforcement," he said. "What happened today is wrong and is not what America is about." Rep. Marcy Kaptur, D-Toledo, released a statement saying the behavior of rioters would not be allowed to prevent the constitutional mandate to certify the Electoral College votes. “This is a horrific day for American democracy and liberty,” she said. “My deepest gratitude goes out to the selfless men and women of the Capitol Police for keeping my colleagues and our public servants safe. The attack on the U.S. Capitol today is an assault on democracy, decency and our Constitution. Those who have stoked and perpetuated this violence must be held accountable to the fullest extent of the law." Sen. Sherrod Brown, D-Cleveland, tweeted that he and his staff were safe: "The violence at the Capitol needs to end now. The lives of countless work-

Elvert Barnes Photography

Trump supporters parade at Union Station Columbus Circle along 1st Street at Massachusetts Avenue in Washington, D.C., on the morning of Jan. 6, before the Capitol was breached.

ers — journalists, staff, and Capitol Police are being put at risk by this attack on our democracy." Sen. Rob Portman, R-Cincinnati, who had said he would not support the opposition to the Electoral College votes, put out a statement calling the violent protests "shameful." "An attack on the Capitol building is an attack on every American," he said. "Likewise, an attack on our nation’s brave law enforcement officers is an attack on the rule of law and the safety and security of all Americans. It is time for President Trump to embrace the peaceful transfer of power, which is mandated under the Constitution and a hallmark of our democracy." After the Senate regathered late in the evening, both Portman and Brown voted to certify the Electoral College vote, as they had said they would do. Ohio Gov. Mike DeWine said in a news release that the riots were an "embarrassment to our country." He said President Donald Trump should call on the protestors to leave the Capitol building. "The final step in the constitutional process of electing our president has been disrupted. The stopping of the count of the Electoral College votes has occurred because the security of the U.S. Capitol has been breached by a violent mob. As a nation of laws, this is simply not acceptable. Lawlessness is not acceptable. This is an affront to our Constitution and everything we hold dear. Those who breached the Capitol breached the Constitution. Peaceful demonstrations outside the Capitol are an exercise of the demonstrators’ First Amendment rights. Stopping the constitutional process by which we elect the president is not." Lorain County Republican Chair David Arredondo said he was not among the group that went to D.C., but condemned the actions at the Capitol. "I certainly condemn any kind of civil disobedience or violence," he said. "This is not Republicans. I don't know who is causing the occupation of the Capitol there. Whoever it is, they should be arrested and prosecuted." Lorain County Democratic Chair Tony Giardini said the sight of the Capitol being overrun was something he couldn't have imagined "in my worst nightmares." "Last time I checked, it's a federal crime to do what they did. It's a federal felony and they're not getting pardoned," Giardini said. "They've got pictures of all of them. Every damned one of them needs to be indicted and put on trial. Every one of them. There is no excuse for it." State Rep. Joe Miller, D-Amherst, said it was just a matter of time before something like this happened. "Unfortunately I think that the whole world is watching and many of us are disappointed that we are in a time in this country where we think this is a necessary response to losing an election." State Rep. Gayle Manning, R-North Ridgeville, sent a news release calling the violence a "sad day for America." "No matter the form of protests across this country, they should not escalate into violence," she said. "I am praying for our law enforcement and our country during these unprecedented times of uncertainty. I hope that balance and order are reinstated within our nation’s capital.” State Sen. Nathan Manning, R-North Ridgeville, expressed similar sentiments as other leaders across Ohio. "This is sad for our country; it's embarrassing for our country," he said. "… I support the First Amendment, but this is rioting and it needs to stop." State Rep. Dick Stein, R-Norwalk, did not immediately respond to requests for comment.

OUR TOWNS

Lorain County Community Guide â&#x20AC;˘ Thursday, Jan. 14, 2021

Hot Dog Heaven rezoning will go to public hearing JASON HAWK EDITOR

AMHERST â&#x20AC;&#x201D; Six parcels on Cleveland Avenue could be rezoned for commercial use in February, paving the way for Hot Dog Heaven to be rebuilt. The former restaurant was located in a century-old home until it burned in late August.

The business had legally operated in a residential zone its entire history under a "nonconforming use" exemption, said Mayor Mark Costilow. But now Amherst's ordinances won't let owner Chris Russo rebuild on the site without rezoning. The Planning Commission has recommended redesignating Russo's parcels from R-1 residential to C-2 commercial use.

A public hearing is scheduled for a public hearing is scheduled for 6:45 p.m. on Monday, Feb. 8. Because of the pandemic, the meeting will be held virtually and live-streamed on the city's website. Residents who wish to speak on the rezoning must visit www. amherstohio.org/city-council to pre-register. City Council will have the ulti-

Full STEAM ahead with a McCormick â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;culture shiftâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; plan

mate say on whether the change is approved. Costilow and Council President Jennifer Wasilk said they have received no negative feedback yet from residents who may oppose the rezoning. "I can't imagine a person standing in front of City Council and opposing Hot Dog Heaven coming back," Costilow said. The restaurant was a landmark

that influenced generations of Amherst students and was a hallmark of the community, he said. Russo has purchased homes to the west of where the business once stood. He plans to use the land to rebuild a larger, more efficient Hot Dog Heaven with a drive-thru and expanded parking. Russo has HOT DOG PAGE B2

AN ENTERPRISING FAMILY

JASON HAWK EDITOR

WELLINGTON â&#x20AC;&#x201D; A "culture shift" is coming to McCormick Middle School, which in the fall will be remodeled as a STEAM academy. The school will seek Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts and Math designation from the Ohio Department of Education, Principal Nathan Baxendale told the Board of Education last week. Teachers hope to show students in grades four to eight how core subjects connect to the everyday world, with classes in computing, the human brain, energy, robotics, automation, matter and ecosystems and medicine. Baxendale said the key will be a move to "project-based learning." Teachers will be expected to assign projects that push students to experience how textbook topics apply to real life. Part of that effort will be forging partnerships with Lorain County businesses, he said. For example, gifted students at McCormick already take part in a solar car STEAM PAGE B2 Angelo Angel | Chronicle

Eldon Foster of Oberlin holds his coffee mug that includes his coffee roast business logo on Sunday.

Oberlin boy seeks to make people happy with his home coffee business DYLAN REYNOLDS THE CHRONICLE-TELEGRAM

OBERLIN â&#x20AC;&#x201D; When Eldon Foster was 6 or 7 years old, he sketched a drawing of a person holding a cup of coffee to their mouth with the words â&#x20AC;&#x153;Good coffee!â&#x20AC;? in a thought bubble above their head. The sketch was envisioned as the logo for his new coffee business,

Provided photo

Kali Seddon and Alex Pruchnicki compete in the FCCLA National Virtual Baking and Pastry competition.

JVS seniors win praise in virtual baking contest PITTSFIELD TWP. â&#x20AC;&#x201D;â&#x20AC;ŻTwo Lorain County JVS seniors in the culinary arts program recently placed second in the Family, Career and Community Leaders of America National Virtual Baking and Pastry competition. Alex Pruchnicki of Avon and Kali Seddon of Midview proved their skills through the preparation of quick bread, choux pastry, cookie and shaped yeast bread. Competitors had less than three hours to produce the required food items. For Seddon, the biggest challenge was working around COVID-19 restrictions and finding a place to work. â&#x20AC;&#x153;Competing virtually was a new experience and made me appreciate in-person competitions more,â&#x20AC;? Seddon said. â&#x20AC;&#x153;Competition has always been a very serious thing for me, but through all of this, it was a lot of fun and a good learning experience.â&#x20AC;? Pruchnicki was excited to compete and represent the state of Ohio, despite all the challenges they faced: â&#x20AC;&#x153;I knew this was going to be a challenge and would push me out of my comfort zone, but I was excited to take it on.â&#x20AC;? Due to the pandemic, the competitions took place remotely with all food production being held as a team and recorded on video. NEMO Grille in Avon, where Pruchnicki works, allowed the students to use their kitchen for the BAKING PAGE B2

â&#x20AC;&#x153;Eldonâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Amazing Coffee,â&#x20AC;? which he runs out of his Oberlin home with a little help and expertise from dad, Sam Foster. A few years later, Eldon is 10 years old, the business is still going strong and the same drawing still is printed on the label for every bag of coffee he sells to customers in town and beyond. â&#x20AC;&#x153;Buy the green beans, roast the coffee, if the people want it, grind

it so you can put it in your coffee maker,â&#x20AC;? Eldon said, describing the process for each bag. â&#x20AC;&#x153;... We put a label onto the bag, open the bag, pour it in and sell it.â&#x20AC;? Eldonâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Amazing Coffee offers many varieties of beans and ground coffee, including a Brazil Dry Process Minas Cafe PequeĂąo, a Ethiopia Sidama Damo and several others, for COFFEE PAGE B2

Brewpub plan gets downtown approval JASON HAWK EDITOR

OBERLIN â&#x20AC;&#x201D; A brewpub will make its home in a long-empty downtown storefront after receiving site plan approval last week from the Oberlin Planning Commission. Indigo Blue Morris LLC intends to open a threebarrel microbrewery and

restaurant at 29 South Main St., according to applicant Sam Foster. He and wife Abbie, an Oberlin Conservatory of Music graduate, recently moved back to the city from Medina. "It is our desire to be involved in the Oberlin community and to contribute to its overall well-being," Foster wrote in a December memo to the commis-

sion. "To that end we have been discussing opening a business, and given my love of brewing, and our mutual love of cooking and hospitality, a brewpub feels like a perfect fit for us." Details of the opening aren't yet firm. The long-vacant space was a grocery store many years ago. It has since been home to Dave's

Army-Navy and Simply Elegant Candles & Gifts. Because its use will change from retail to restaurant space, Planning Commission approval was required. Foster said he wanted to lock down approval to use the building before hiring an architect and committing to other details. BREWPUB PAGE B2

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MR. HERO CRASH

NEXUS appeal puts eminent domain use in the crosshairs JASON HAWK EDITOR

Provided photo

A woman accidentally hit the gas instead of the break just after 9 a.m. Friday, smashing her car through the front of Mr. Hero on Route 58 in Amherst, according to Assistant Fire Chief Brandon Dimacchia. The vehicle destroyed the front door and window of the business. "Just about all the glass and framing was damage, but she was uninjured," Dimacchia said. He said the driver was examined by LifeCare Ambulance paramedics, and declined to go to the hospital. No one was in the store at the time, and there was no damage to the neighboring Blue Sky Restaurant or T-Mobile store, he said. Mr. Hero was boarded up.

Murner to lead Wellington school board in 2021

Brett Murner was chosen Jan. 4 to serve as president of the Wellington Board of Education for a second consecutive year. "This has been a difficult year for the school district, and I think that you've done a very admirable job," school board member Ayers Ratliff told Murner. "I think we would be smart to have you get us through another year of this COVID." Murner said he believes "we've all done the best job we can," and said he was happy to accept the task. Penny McClafflin, who served as vice president of the board in 2020, was sworn in for an additional year as well.

Local man in Wisconsin crash

A Wellington man was seriously injured in a crash last Thursday in Wisconsin. Dennis Mouser, 71, was struck by a delivery truck after falling while crossing a county road shortly after 8 a.m. Thursday, according to a news release from Portage police. The driver of the delivery vehicle was reportedly unaware Mouser had fallen. Mouser was transported to an area hospital with serious injuries. No other information was available.

HOT DOG

FROM B1 also promised to keep the building's look and feel true to its storied history. Costilow said he feels commercial zoning "is the proper use" for the land. There is already commercial property adjacent on Cleveland Avenue and across the street. "There's property on a couple different corners there that are already commercial, and it's a really good fit," he said.

STEAM

FROM B1 competition, but he said it would also be valuable for them to talk with workers at a company that uses solar energy. The move to STEAM means changing the building's schedule. Every Wednesday, there will be a three-period STEAM block for the entire school, Baxendale said. It will be used to make sure every student at McCormick has exposure to STEAM ideas. "While we have our gifted programming and we have our accelerated programming, we can't just limit opportunities to those students. They're there for everybody," he said. Baxendale called the shift "what it's going to take for us to be a viable successful school going forward." The quest for STEAM designation has been in planning for several years. McCormick had been poised to start the transition last April, but plans were put off by the COVID-19 pandemic. Teachers will start training in the next couple of months, and Baxendale told the Board of Education that while some have reservations, there is also excitement. The school will apply for STEAM designation in December 2021, and state education officials will visit to evaluate how programs are being implemented at the building.

BAKING

Thursday, Jan. 14, 2021

Lorain County Community Guide

FROM B1 competition. At the time of the completion, the JVS was on a fully remote schedule. The students' instructor, chef Timothy Michitsch, said he is grateful for the local restaurant's help. “I can’t even begin to express how proud I am of these two students for completing this competition with all of the obstacles they encountered along the way,” he said.

OBERLIN — Land was improperly seized to make way for the NEXUS pipeline, according to lawyers for the city of Oberlin. City Council voted last week to pledge another $18,500 toward its ongoing legal battle over the natural gas line. The funds will go to attorney Carolyn Elefant. who has filed for a rehearing of a case against the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission in the U.S. District Court of Appeals, District of Columbia. The case could potentially go to the U.S. Supreme Court, according to Oberlin Law Director Jon Clark. The city first retained

Elefant in January 2016 as its representative in proceedings that ultimately led to NEXUS' authorization. Now she will argue that the pipeline company's use of eminent domain to take land from residents and other communities along its 257-mile path was improper. Clark said there is a question about whether eminent domain — using the court system to force sale of private property — could be used, since NEXUS may serve markets in Canada. The Natural Gas Act applies differently when exports are involved, he said. The city's appeal will also focus on the safety of residents who live in the "impact zone" should there be an explosion, Clark

said. Some on Reserve Avenue are within 50 feet of the pipeline. NEXUS' impact on the environment will also play a role in the appeal, he said. FERC must balance environmental interests when authorizing energy projects. Clark said the NEXUS pipeline carries fracked gas, "and as everyone knows, fracking is a contributor to global warming." The appeal will likely take at least a year to reach oral arguments, Clark said. The NEXUS pipeline transports gas from eastern Ohio through Michigan. It does not extend into Canada. Oberlin's suit claims the project "lack(s) any discernible public benefits" and "the adverse effects on

landowners and communities are not outweighed by public benefits and that no public use justifies the exercise of eminent domain." Opposing lawyers argued that the NEXUS pipeline is not an export facility, but a domestic interstate pipeline, and that the project couldn't be halted because some gas may someday go to Canada. The pipeline has been in operation since late 2018. Oberlin Council President Linda Slocum said she hopes the continuing case will lead to regulations on further pipeline construction. "Our experience can benefit other groups filing similar lawsuits," she said. "There could be future gas lines proposed for Oberlin. We are protecting our local residents for the future."

OPINION COLUMN

Why I decided to get the vaccine HANS SCHNEIDER MAYOR OF WELLINGTON

I wanted to share with the community my decision to receive the Moderna COVID-19 vaccine this past Wednesday. Before reading further, please know that I recognize the decision to receive the vaccine is very personal for all of us. I don’t think, at this early stage of the process, there is a right or wrong answer. While it was right for me, it may not be right for you right now for any number of reasons. While I would encourage everyone to strongly consider receiving it, I respect your right to make the best decision for you on your own terms and timeframe. To be honest, when talk of a vaccine started and through much of the development of them, I was of the mindset that I would pass on receiving it. Too new and too many unknowns were the primary reasons for my initial stance. I figured I’d take a wait and see approach before making a final decision. However, as we delved further into the pandemic it became clear that the vaccine offered the clearest pathway to getting back to

normal. The risk associated with receiving a newly developed vaccine started to fade against the risk of contracting COVID-19. Given my own health history — I battled an autoimmune disease called Guillain-Barre syndrome, have active asthma and an underlying heart condition — I worry about contracting COVID-19, how severe it could be given my underlying conditions and what longterm effects of the disease might stay with me. Also, as I researched the development of the vaccines and the results of ensuing trials, I began to feel more comfortable with the thought of being vaccinated. Certainly there are unknowns still associated with them including how long does immunity last and are there any long-term effects from receiving the vaccination. While they aren’t 100 percent effective based on trials, 94.1 percent is a number I can get behind. I spoke to a number of fellow health care workers regarding their thoughts. Some were pro-vaccine while others weren’t. The most important conversations were between my wife and I. We openly discussed the risks and merits of receiving the vaccine versus not.

These were good conversations that I needed to have and the opinions I received helped shape my decision. As a health care worker, I deal directly with over 25 patients plus fellow staff every working day. Being vaccinated will enhance the care I give by providing my patients a safer environment to receive treatment and will lower the risk of passing on the virus to them. As the mayor of the village, I’ve been very vocal regarding wearing masks, social distancing and limiting contacts with others. Receiving the vaccine aligns with those views and was the next logical step for me. Two days post vaccination (as this is written), I feel good. I had slight swelling at the vaccination site. My arm was sore as well but that has continued to diminish. More importantly than feeling good, I feel optimistic. The past year has been rough on all of us but there will be brighter days ahead. Vaccination will play a part in that. I hope you all consider putting your arm forward when the opportunity presents itself. Stay safe and stay healthy.

church told all his coworkers about his business. “He bought like 16 bags of coffee and I came into church with this huge box of coffee and it was like four days of straight roasting,” he said. “And it smelled good,” Sam Foster laughed. Operating his own business has not been all fun and games for the young entrepreneur. He said there was at least one occasion when he burned a batch of beans because he forgot they were roasting while playing outside. But for the most part it has been a fun experience. It didn’t hurt that Eldon comes from a coffee-appreciating family. He has loved the flavors of the drink since he first tasted it and has been roasting it since he turned 7.

It also didn’t hurt that the family already had some of the equipment needed inside their home. Sam Foster roasts coffee and brews his own beer, and the same equipment for the beer can be used to steep the coffee similarly to a French press. “All of the kids drink coffee and enjoy it,” Sam Foster said, reflecting on why Eldon wanted a coffee business. “My daughter, the oldest, she would have a little bit of coffee with a lot of milk in a bottle when she was little, and they’ve all just loved it.” A software developer by trade, he also has the spirit of an entrepreneur. Sam Foster recently received site approval from the Oberlin Planning Commission to open a new brewpub at 29 South Main St. in Oberlin.

COFFEE

FROM B1 delivery within Oberlin or pickup. Orders can be placed through a link on the Eldon’s Amazing Coffee page on Facebook, and customers can choose their own roast and grind levels. Making money was never the primary goal for Eldon. Sure, having a little extra cash is never a bad thing, but he said some of his favorite memories are when he’s seen his beans make a customer happy. His cello instructor recently sent the family an email about how espresso she bought from Eldon made the best affogato — a dessert with espresso over ice cream or gelato — that she has ever tasted. Another time Eldon felt his mission of making people happy was succeeding was when a friend from

BREWPUB

FROM B1 About 1,500 square feet at the front of the building will be open to customers, with a maximum occupancy of about 100. The brewery and kitchen will each take up about 600 square feet, according to the site plan application. Foster said he's been a homebrewer for many years and also makes wine. "And friends have sort of pestered me about opening a brewery for many years,"

he told the commission — and the more he thought about it, the more it felt like a good fit. The application said the brewpub is intended to be a family-friendly space where people can get to know each other over a mug. "I think it's a great idea. I'd like to see something like that go into any of our empty spaces downtown," said commission Vice

Chair Eric Gaines. The business will be somewhat of a novelty for Oberlin, where some restaurants serve alcohol but there are no bars or other establishments that exist primarily to serve alcohol. Despite being a college town, Oberlin has a long history of temperance that dates back to its founding in 1833, according to the Oberlin Heritage Center. It was long designated a

"dry" town where alcohol was banned. In 1893, the Anti-Saloon League was founded in Oberlin and went on to successfully lobby for Prohibition. In the mid-1900s, there were occasionally taverns that sold low-alcohol beer, and it was only in the 1980s and 1990s that a few restaurants were licensed to serve hard liquor, according to the Heritage Center.

Thursday, Jan. 14, 2021

Lorain County Community Guide

FALCONS SHOW TEAMWORK

Page B3

RAIDERS BLAST AHEAD

Photos by Russ Gifford | Oberlin News-Tribune

Madison Sutton led Firelands on a 68-38 tear past Oberlin on Jan. 6 in Lorain County League competition. Megan Sutton and Lauren Valerius each added 12 to the Falcons' total, and 11 of the team's players contributed baskets. For the Phoenix, Mar'khila Holloway led with 15 and Sanayah Wilborn followed with 13. The teams faced off again Saturday and Firelands again dominated, 81-34, with a 24-2 third quarter putting the nail in the Phoenix coffin. Madison Sutton led the Falcons into the fray once more, with a game-high 18 points. Abbey Schmitz was at the fore too with 17, and Dylan Koba-Nelson added 14. Casey Amato had 14 for Oberlin and Holloway notched 12 points. ABOVE: Oberlin’s Casey Amato moves with the ball under pressure from Firelands’ Bella Simmons. RIGHT: Firelands’ Madison Sutton gets a basket in the paint against Oberlin.

Photos by Russ Gifford | Wellington Enterprise

After a neck-and-neck first quarter Saturday, Columbia pulled away 23-5 in the second and next looked back, defeating Black River 57-39. The Pirates' Riley Kubitz led all scorers with 17 points, but the Raiders had a more varied line-up: Elise Champagne scraped together 16 points, Allyson Ross had 13 and Mallory Hottell had 10. ABOVE: Black River’s Riley Kubitz gets a basket against Columbia.

INSURMOUNTABLE LEAD

BOMBACK GOES OFF

Russ Gifford | Wellington Enterprise

Black River flipped the script in the fourth period Friday and tried to mount a comeback, but it wasn't enough to overcome a sizeable Columbia lead as the Raiders surged to a 93-75 win. Brandon Fisher had 19 points en route to the victory — teammate Caleb Borling had 18 and Trevor Hottell and Nathan Borling each contributed 13. For the Pirates, John Kray racked up 18 points, Logan Clifford had 15 and Peter Jeske had 10. ABOVE: Black River's Daniel Jeske gets to the basket against Columbia.

85 SOUTH MAIN STREET OBERLIN OHIO 44074 JANUARY 14, 2021

Russ Gifford | Amherst News-Times

Caden Bomback overpowered the Clippers' defense Jan. 6 as the Falcons rolled to a 70-44 win. After a deadlocked first period, Firelands broke loose in the second and third to take a 62-35 lead heading into the final quarter. Alex Angle had 14 points and Mitchell Hodges had 10, but it was Bomback's night as he racked up a game high 20. B'ohn Smith-Belcher topped the Clearview scorers with 16. ABOVE: Firelands’ Caden Bomback gets a fast break layup at Clearview.

BOARD AND COMMISSION MEETING DATES ALL MEETINGS WILL BE Live Streamed @ http://oberlinoh.swagit.com/live NOTICE: DISABLED MEMBERS OF THE COMMUNITY WHO MAY NEED ASSISTANCE, PLEASE CALL 775-7203 OR E-MAIL: banderson@cityofoberlin.com NOTICE REQUIRED: TWO (2) WORKING DAYS IN ADVANCE OF MEETING (48 HOURS) CLERK OF COUNCIL’S OFFICE.

Page B4

Photos by Joe Colon | Amherst News-Times

Thursday, Jan. 14, 2021

Lorain County Community Guide

Cesear, Zehel and '81 boy cross country team named to HOF

JUST A BIT BETTER

It was razor thin, but the Comets managed to edge Berea-Midpark by just one or two points every quarter Jan. 5 for a 5549 final at home. Ty Weatherspoon led the pack with 19 and George Fayer kicked in 10 points. Amherst is set to host Avon at home Friday, with tip-off at 7 p.m. RIGHT: George Fayer looks to score against Berea-Midpark in Southwestern Conference action. The junior point guard has been a staple of the Comets offense so far this season.

COMETS AT THE SWC CHAMPIONSHIP Amherst placed sixth Saturday at the Southwestern Conference wrestling tournament, with 98 points. Olmsted Falls had the first place showing with 175 points. Top performances for the Comets: • Ryan Trowbridge placed first in the 106-pound contest with a 9-2 decision over Avon Lake's Jake Dzik. • Noah Mendez defeated Jared Counts of North Ridgeville by pin in 3:48 in the 126-pound division. • Ryan Auvil pinned Avon Lake's Lucas Marconi in 53 seconds to take third place at 170 pounds. • Nick Jackson defeated Tyler Duff of North Ridgeville by 8-6 decision to take third place at 182 pounds. • Lavell Gibson took first in the 220-pound division with a 3-2 deciAngelo Angel | Chronicle sion over Luis Caraballo of Olmsted Amherst's Noah Mendez, left, tries to get North Ridgeville's Falls. Jared Counts on his back in the 126-pound final.

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AMHERST — Two individual sports standouts and one team have been inducted into the Amherst Athletic Hall of Fame for the Class of 2021. Due to the COVID-19 pandemic, they will be honored next January in a combined ceremony with the Hall of Fame's Class of 2022. Inductees include: • Brian Cesear, a football and wrestling standout who as a senior was named the Golden Helmet Winner (Lorain County Player of the Year) and Southwestern Conference Most Valuable Player, making him just the second player in Amherst football history to achieve either accolade. He was named First Team All-Ohio, First Team AllDistrict, First Team All-Lorain County, First Team AllSouthwestern Conference, and was a team captain. As a junior, Cesear was named First Team All-District, First Team All-Lorain County, and First Team All-Southwestern Conference. He was a three-year starter on state playoff qualifying teams, playing on both sides of the ball as a fullback and linebacker. On the wrestling mat, Cesear was a two-time OHSAA state qualifier. He finished fourth as a senior and sixth as a junior. As a senior, he was named the Lorain County Wrestler of the Year, winning tournament championships at Columbia, the Avon Lake Knights of Columbus and Bellevue. As a junior, he won his weight class at the Brecksville Tournament. Cesear attended Ohio University, where he continued his wrestling career, and was named captain his senior season. • Heather Zehel, a volleyball, basketball and softball standout. During her senior year, all three programs won Southwestern Conference Championships, and the 1991 volleyball team made it to the state semifinals — the team was inducted into the Amherst Athletic Hall of Fame in 2020. On the volleyball court, Zehel was named Second Team All-District, First Team All-Southwestern Conference and First Team All-Lorain County. She was named to the District III and Lorain County All-Star Teams. On the hardwood, she was named Honorable Mention All-Lorain County and participated in the Lorain County All-Star Game. On the softball diamond, Zehel had two tremendous seasons. As a junior, she was named Second Team AllConference and Second Team All-Lorain County. She was the only underclassman on the All-SWC teams. She broke the Comets softball record with 90 at bats. In addition she led the team in hits, RBI and defensive assists. As a senior, Zehel was named Lorain County’s Miss Softball, First Team All-Conference and First Team AllCounty. She led the team with a .510 batting average and 27 RBI. In the field, she had a team-leading .937 fielding average. Zehel attended Baldwin Wallace College where she played Volleyball, basketball and softball. • The 1981 boys cross country team was the Class AAA OHSAA state runner-up. The team was coached by Amherst Athletic hall-of-famer Richard Cooley. Members consisted of David Allen, Jeff Greene, Darryl Guidish, Bob Lukesic, Bob Skiddle, Tim Welte and Robert Wilburn. Scoring for the Comets at the state meet were Greene (17th), Wilburn (22nd), Welte (14th), Guidish (32nd) and Skiddle (45th). On the way to the state meet, the team finished runnerup at the sectional meet and won the district title. This team won the Lakeland Conference Championship by 58 points as its five top runners finished no worse than seventh.

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Ice Hockey

Nathan Harmych hat-tricked as Amherst took down Strongsville 3-2 on Jan. 5. He put one in the goal on a first period power play with help from Logan Eicher and Avery Winkleman. In the third period, Harmych struck twice — once unassisted, and then with help from Joey Kramer on a last-second shot to win. Comets goalie Brady Grove won the day on defense with 17 saves, preserving the team's 9-0 record. • Amherst's perfect season was spoiled by a 6-3 upset at Hudson on Jan. 8. Joey Kramer opened the game with a goal on a Nathan Harmych assist, and skated off the ice three periods later with a hat trick. But Hudson's Sully Clark wouldn't be denied, putting in two of his own, adding an assist and backing a more diversified offense that buried Comets goalie Brady Grove under 20 shots.

Girls Basketball

• Berea-Midpark racked up a 32-13 lead at halftime in Southwestern Conference play Jan. 9, en route to a 55-42 win over Amherst. Natalie Pleban had 11 points and Kayla Ferancy had 10 to anchor the Comets. The Titans' Courtney Simon had 21. Prior to the game, Amherst celebrated the team's only senior, Nora Wright, in a presentation with her parents, Nora and Thyrin Wright.

Boys Basketball

• The Demons got stomped 80-57 in Southwestern Conference action on Jan. 8. The Comets' George Gotsis led all scorers with 19 points, trailed closely by teammate Ty Weatherspoon with 17. Westlake's fate was sealed in the first half, as Amherst went 20-9, 21-9 to more than double up the score at the halftime buzzer. The Demons played more evenly in the second half, going down swinging 21-17, 18-22.

Thursday, Jan. 14, 2021

Lorain County Community Guide

Page B5

POLICE REPORTS AMHERST

• Dec. 14 at 2:09 p.m.: A man attempted to steal meat and seafood worth $312 from Giant Eagle on Kresge Drive, but police said he dropped a backpack filled with merchandise as he left. • Dec. 15, time undisclosed: Construction wood was reported stolen from Park Avenue. • Dec. 16 at 12:24 a.m.: A 17-year-old Lorain boy was charged with underage consumption of alcohol, disturbing the peace and disorderly conduct by intoxication. He was taken to the hospital about making suicidal comments. • Dec. 17 at 7:49 p.m.: Dylan McCrann, 19, of Lorain, was charged with reckless operation. Police said he drove through a front yard on Van Oaks Drive. • Dec. 17 at 7:04 p.m.: A child who cut herself with a knife in an attempt to end her life was taken to the hospital for treatment. • Dec. 18, time undisclosed: A Discount Drug Mart manager said a cashier was the victim of a quick-change scam the previous day. • Dec. 18 at 12:14 p.m.: A theft complaint was made at Dollar Tree on Kresge Drive. It involved a quick-change scam. • Dec. 18 at 1:39 p.m.: A man said someone fraudulently tried to open accounts in his name. • Dec. 18 at 10:21 p.m.: Tristan Cooper, 25, of Elyria, was charged with criminal damaging, disorderly conduct by intoxication and open container. The charges followed a complaint about a disturbance at Cedar Pub on Park Avenue. • Dec. 18 at 10:30 p.m.: Bradley Markovich, 25, of Lakewood, was charged with operating a vehicle while intoxicated and failing to stop after a crash. Police said he hit the landscaping rocks at the entrance to the English Lakes development on Middle Ridge Road. His unoccupied vehicle was found blocking the entrance. • Dec. 18 at 10:59 p.m.: Tristan

Cooper, 25, of Elyria, was arrested on a warrant through the Elyria Police Department on charges of operating a vehicle while intoxicated, right of way and hit-skip. • Dec. 19 at 9:32 a.m.: Police responded to a domestic dispute on Pearl Street. • Dec. 19 at 1:52 a.m.: Peter Boden, 39, of Amherst; Samuel Allison, 31, of South Amherst; and Michael Giacopelli, 29, of Amherst, were charged with disorderly conduct by intoxication and disturbing the peace. The charges came after police responded to a fight on Henry Street. Officers separated people who were still attempting to fight each other when they arrived, according to a report. • Dec. 20 at 1:39 a.m.: Paul Smith, 38, of Lorain, was arrested on a warrant through the Avon Police Department for failure to appear in court. • Dec. 20 at 5:49 p.m.: A person said they lost $900 to a texting scam. • Dec. 23, time undisclosed: Police responded to a domestic complaint involving a child. • Dec. 24 at midnight: Officers responded to a domestic dispute on Willow Hollow Court. • Dec. 24 at 1:51 a.m.: Steven Perez, 24, of Cleveland, was arrested on a warrant through the Amherst Police Department for failure to appear in court. The original charges were driving the wrong way on a one-way street and driving with a suspended license. • Dec. 24 at 6:44 p.m.: Officers responded to a domestic dispute on Shady Drive. • Dec. 29 at 1:08 a.m.: Females were reportedly fighting outside a Days Inn room on Route 58. Police found a window broken. • Dec. 31 at 1:30 a.m.: Joshua Fryson, 36, of Lorain, was arrested on a warrant through the Lorain Police Department for contempt of court. The original charge was domestic violence. • Jan. 1 at 8:09 a.m.: Charles Hill, 49, of Lorain, was arrested

on a warrant through the Amherst Police Department for failure to appear in court. The original charge was petty theft. • Jan. 2 at 1:10 p.m.: A fraudulent checks complaint was made at Lakeshore Automotive on Cooper Foster Park Road. • Jan. 2 at 2:31 p.m.: Matthew Spalding, 30, of Vermilion, was arrested on a warrant through the Amherst Police Department for failure to appear in court. The original charge was larceny. • Jan. 2 at 7:02 p.m.: Victoria Jean, 52, of Amherst, was charged with operating a vehicle while intoxicated, driving in marked lanes and reckless operation. She was wanted on suspicion of a hit-skip crash in North Olmsted, according to police.

OBERLIN

• Dec. 12 at 10:19 p.m.: Amari Wilkerson was charged with driving under four open license suspensions, as well as possession of marijuana. • Dec. 15 at 4:10 p.m.: A woman who accidentally left her purse in a shopping cart at Walmart reported $600 stolen from it. • Dec. 19 at 7:43 p.m.: A woman reported the theft of $140 from her PayPal account. • Dec. 22 at 11:51 p.m.: A suspicious vehicle was removed from the parking lot in front of The Child Garden on US Route 20. According to police, its owner was deceased. • Dec. 23 at 2:11 p.m.: A woman was allegedly outside on North Main Street, yelling, swearing and throwing rocks. The incident is allegedly linked to an ongoing dispute that has resulted in menacing charges. • Dec. 24 at 4:05 p.m.: Oberlin police helped find a person wanted by the Lorain County Sheriff's Office for questioning. Officers seized marijuana the man allegedly had in his possession, according to a report. • Dec. 25 at 8:10 p.m.: Police responded to a domestic dispute on South Pleasant Street.

• Dec. 26 at 8:54 a.m.: Todd Lewis was arrested on a warrant through the Lorain County Sheriff's Office. • Dec. 27 at 7:30 p.m.: A woman said her son's friend stole a portable speaker, vodka and tequila from her home on South Park Street. Charges of felony burglary and contributing to the unruliness or delinquency of a child were forwarded to county juvenile court for consideration. A felony burglary charge was also sent to the grand jury for consideration. • Dec. 29 at 1:52 a.m.: Christopher Parker was arrested on a warrant through Oberlin Municipal Court for failure to appear. • Dec. 29 at 8:43 a.m.: Officers responded to a domestic issue on Maple Street. • Dec. 30 at 7:15 p.m.: Oberlin College security called police about a person believed to be having a psychiatric episode. He was taken to the hospital. • Jan. 1 at 1:06 p.m.: A woman reported losing personal ID documents at The Bridge on South Main Street. • Jan. 3 at 3 p.m.: Officers responded to a domestic dispute on North Park Street.

WELLINGTON

• Dec. 9 at 3:52 p.m.: Matthrew Kaminoski, 27, of Wellington, was charged with violating a temporary protection order. • Dec. 9 at 8:30 p.m.: A package was reported stolen from a porch on Dewolf Street. • Dec. 10 at 4:15 p.m.: An auditor discovered money was stolen from the accounts of several Rescare residents, according to the facility director. • Dec. 14 at 5:58 p.m.: Matthew Kaminoski, 27, of Wellington, was arrested on a warrant through Oberlin Municipal Court for violation of a protection order. • Dec. 15 at 3:43 p.m.: Police investigated a possible theft at Elms Retirement Home involving a delivery of medications. • Dec. 18 at 6:27 p.m.: Police

responded to a juvenile who overdosed in an apparent attempt to end her life. • Dec. 18 at 9:18 p.m.: A 17-year-old Spencer boy was charged with operating a vehicle while intoxicated and speeding. • Dec. 21 at 9:19 p.m.: A domestic violence protection order violation was reported to police. • Dec. 22 at 2:11 p.m.: A theft was reported at Apples Market on East Herrick Avenue after an employee saw security camera footage of a male and female allegedly stealing hygiene products. • Dec. 26 at 10:14 p.m.: Michael Marcum, 20, of Wellington, was arrested on a warrant through the Wellington Police Department on a charge of petty theft. • Dec. 27 at 10:39 a.m.: Police responded to a complaint of a reckless driver near West Herrick Avenue and Kelly Street. • Dec. 27 at 3:19 p.m.: A man reported his sister-in-law took his vehicle without his permission. • Dec. 28 at 3 p.m.: A man who lost his wallet and later had it returned said there was $111 missing. • Dec. 28 at 5:21 p.m.: A Courtland Street woman reported her car had been keyed. • Dec. 29 at 2:31 p.m.: Mark Bagnall, 58, of Wellington, was charged with domestic violence following a complaint on Barker Street. • Dec. 29 at 10:42 p.m.: Kyle Hayes, 25, of Wellington, was charged with operating a vehicle while intoxicated and bloodalcohol content over .08 percent. The charges came after a report of a disturbance at Fort's Tavern on West Herrick Avenue. • Dec. 30 at 8:35 p.m.: Walter Rauscher Jr., 53, of Wellington, was charged with operating a vehicle while intoxicated and blood-alcohol content of .17 percent or greater. Editor's note: Though charged, defendants are innocent until proven guilty in a court of law.

UH Rainbow Lorain Pediatrics is growing to serve you better! At UH Rainbow Lorain Pediatrics, our goal is to provide our families with the highest quality health care. That’s why we are excited to share news of the big changes coming to our practice in the New Year.

IN JANUARY, we will open a second location at: 319 West Lorain Street, Oberlin 44074

And, we will welcome two new pediatric providers: Khalid Akbar, MD Pediatrician Elana Richter, CNP Pediatric Nurse Practitioner

IN FEBRUARY, we will move our main office to: 590 North Leavitt Road, Amherst 44001 With easy access to parking and private entrance.

All UH Rainbow Lorain Pediatrics providers are accepting new patients. Schedule an appointment online at UHRainbow.org/ScheduleRLP or call 440-482-7514. Learn more about our changes at UHRainbow.org/RLP

RBC 1425466 Lorain Peds_9.89 x 10.indd 2

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Lorain County Community Guide

In the past, some people have tried to get rid of crows in a number of ways – even exploding dynamite where large numbers of the birds roost. But despite it all, crows have thrived and now live almost everywhere in North America.

Do you know your crows? People haven’t always been kind to crows. Farmers put up scarecrows to keep the birds out of their fields and gardens. Some people just don’t like them.

Children are born curious. From their earliest days, sensory exploration brings delight and wonder. New discoveries expand their minds. When they unlock the joy of reading, their world widens further. Magic happens. Kid Scoop opens the doors of discovery for elementary school children by providing interactive, engaging and relevant age-appropriate materials designed to awaken the magic of reading at school, at home, and throughout their lives. For more information about our literacy non-profit, visit kidscoopnews.org

With a family member, see if you can find each scarecrow’s twin. Can you find the one unique scarecrow?

Crows are intelligent birds.They also eat a lot of pests that can damage crops. But farmers know that one of the favorite foods these birds enjoy is corn!

What do you call a group of crows?

The letters along the correct path over the cornfield spell the answer! M O

F A

Y S

M U

C L E D

A group of crows is called:

W V

P This crow removed some words from the story. Can you replace them?

Crows are famous for holding “funerals” when one of their kind has died. Crows will keep watch over a fallen bird, sometimes for many days. Scientists wonder if they feel sad or if they might be trying to figure out how the crow died so they can learn from it.

Crows have been found using sticks to get insects out of small cracks and holes. New Caledonian crows also make tools. They have been seen pulling the leaves off a stick and creating little hook-shaped tools from twigs, leaves and thorns.

Shortly after she started the daily feeding routine, little _______ started getting left on the food platform. Over time, Gabi has ____________ nearly 100 little trinkets.

The crows have brought her buttons, a LEGO piece, charms, stones – most of the gifts are ________ things they can carry in their beaks. One time she got a little piece of _________ with the word, “best” on it. Was there another piece with the word “friend” on it? Gabi likes to think so.

Up in the Air

Can you make five squares by moving only two sticks?

Look through the newspaper to find: • 3 things that fly • 3 words that describe crows • 3 items crows might steal • 3 places where crows are found

Standards Link: Reading Comprehension: Follow simple written directions.

Stumped? Answer at: kidscoop.com/answers

Scientists have found that crows can solve puzzles that have up to eight steps. Can you solve this puzzle? Circle the numbers that add up to 8. Put a box around the numbers that add up to 10. The numbers must be next to each other or above and below each other like this:

Standards Link: Math: Solve logic puzzles.

Look through the newspaper for examples of three or more tools that people use at work. Discuss what life would be like without those tools. Standards Link: Use the newspaper to locate information.

DYNAMITE MAGPIES THRIVED INSECTS RAVENS THORNS CROWS TWIGS TOOLS NESTS ROOST CLOSE STICK HOOK RID

I N E T I M A N Y D

D S T I N S E C T S E E E L G L S I G S

V E D I R N N T A T

This week’s word:

ROOST

R T O S L G V M W E

H S H O O K A O A N

The verb roost means to settle on a perch (a place where a bird rests).

T H O R N S R M R T

The pigeons roost on the top of the roof.

S T I C K C L O S E

Try to use the word roost in a sentence today when talking with your friends and family members.

I I W O P S E N D S

Standards Link: Letter sequencing. Recongized identical words. Skim and scan reading. Recall spelling patterns.

ANSWER: Velcrow!

Crows Use and Make Tools

hen Gabi was four years old, she dropped some _______ on the ground. Quickly, a crow flew in and took off with it. Gabi then started feeding the crows in her neighborhood by leaving out dry dog food bits.

of bird would you be? Why?