Lorain County Community Guide - Feb. 17, 2022

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AMHERST NEWS-TIMES • OBERLIN NEWS-TRIBUNE • WELLINGTON ENTERPRISE Thursday, Feb. 17, 2022

Submit items to news@LCnewspapers.com

Volume 9, Issue 7

Lawsuit: Ziegler firing was age discrimination JASON HAWK EDITOR

ELYRIA — Former cafeteria worker Barbara Ziegler is suing the Wellington Board of Education, claiming she is the victim of age discrimination.

Ziegler, 64, of Wellington, was a cook for the district for 32 years, starting in 1989.

She was fired in 2020 after an incident in which she took a meal from a McCormick Middle School fourth-grader whose parents had an outstanding $6 lunchroom debt.

Security video provided by the boy’s mother, Jamie Babb, showed Ziegler walk over to his table, slide the tray away from him and walk away without saying a word as the child sat

Oberlin native and Kent State protester dies RINI JEFFERS FOR THE NEWS-TRIBUNE

Bill Arthrell, who started his adult life with bullets and spent the rest of it relentlessly preaching peace, died earlier this month in an Oklahoma car crash. He was 72.

Arthrell, an Oberlin native, retired history teacher and renowned protester, was two hours into the long drive back to Ohio, said his sisterin-law, Claudia Arthrell.

Kristin Bauer | He preferred to drive at Community Guide night and left her Tulsa Bill Arthrell, of Clevehome at 8:30 p.m.; the land Heights and crash occurred shortly originally of Oberlin, after just east of Miami, speaks in May 2020 Oklahoma, state troopers about the events that told her. unfolded May 4, 1970, “He left in really good when he was at Kent spirits,” she said, having State University. just spent six weeks staying at her home while he had a knee replacement and visiting with family for the holidays, she said.

Her late husband, Dan, was Bill Arthrell’s only sibling. “We were so excited. He felt better than he had in ARTHRELL PAGE A3 Classifieds, legals, display advertising, and subscriptions Deadline: 1 p.m. each Monday Phone: 440-329-7000 Hours: 6:30 a.m. to 5 p.m.

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News staff Jason Hawk news@LCnewspapers.com Phone: 440-329-7122 Submit news to news@lcnewspapers.com Deadline: 10 a.m. Tuesday Send obituaries to obits@chroniclet.com

stunned.

Superintendent Ed Weber said Ziegler had overstepped her authority, and the situation should have been handled by the principal if the amount owed grew to $20.

A lawsuit filed last week by Brunswick attorney Michael Conway in the Lorain County Court of Common Pleas claims a “sham investigation” led to

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fourth-grader’s civil rights. But in the court filing, Conway said it was his client’s rights that were violated.

After she was disciplined and terminated, Ziegler was humiliated by media coverage of the board’s decision, the suit said.

She was later reinstated after union arbitration as a Wellington ZIEGLER PAGE A2

A tribute to teachers Provided photo Dukes boys basketball players celebrated Teacher Appreciation Day on Feb. 8 by going to classrooms across the district and presenting teachers with breakfast and coffee from Bread-NBrew. Teachers were also given the jersey of the student athlete that chose to honor them. Before hitting the court that night to take on the Black River Pirates, the Dukes held a short ceremony to recognize their teachers.

RIGHT: Westwood Elementary School teacher Cristy Hess was selected by Wellington High School student and sophomore basketball player Sean Whitehouse during Appreciation Day in the district.

Timken touts Trump policies in Senate campaign stop in Amherst JASON HAWK EDITOR

AMHERST — U.S. Senate candidate Jane Timken didn’t mince words about her political goals Tuesday, Feb. 8 during a campaign stop in Lorain County.

“I am running on the America First agenda,” she said, telling about 30 people who gathered at The Brew Kettle in downtown Amherst that she plans to support former President Donald Trump if he runs again and stump for his policies.

Timken’s platform closely mirrors Trump’s.

In a one-on-one interview, she called for a wall along the southern border of the U.S., and said she believes cartels are able to bring drugs TIMKEN PAGE A2

Kristin Bauer | Amherst News-Times

Jane Timken, a Republican candidate for the U.S. Senate, speaks at The Brew Kettle in downtown Amherst, on Tuesday, Feb. 8.

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Ziegler’s termination.

There is no evidence, the suit claims, that she meant to injure or starve the student. It says she did not give “what amounts to a free lunch to a white male middle school (8th grade) student who did not pay for it” and said she acted on a good-faith interpretation of workplace rules.

The Board of Education determined Ziegler violated the

Amherst

Oberlin

Wellington

School talk: How does the teen brain work? • B1

Former school custodian’s lawsuit alleges bullying • A6

Parking ticket rules must change in village • A5

OBITUARIES A2 • CLASSIFIEDS A4 • CROSSWORD B2 • SUDOKU B2 • KID SCOOP B6

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Thursday, Feb. 17, 2022

Lorain County Community Guide

Oberlin Council buys vacant parcels near bike path OBERLIN — Another 1.13 acres has been purchased by City Council along the Plum Creek corridor.

In an emergency vote last week, it approved the $2,600 purchase of three vacant parcels near the Oberlin Bike Path and Spring Street right-of-way.

In November, city officials were contacted by representatives of the Spring Frey family, seeking to sell the estate of the late Joseph Zieba.

“The property could provide additional space to assist in the maintenance of the bike path,” or could help better connect the path to the residential neighborhood to the south, said Carrie Porter, Oberlin’s planning and development director.

OBITUARIES Allyn W. Gibson Allyn W. Gibson, 93, of Oberlin, passed away peacefully during baker's hours Saturday, Feb. 12, 2022. Allyn was born July 5, 1928, to Burt and Leota (Goodrich) Gibson.

He graduated from Oberlin High School and attended the Ohio State University. Allyn married the love of his life, Melba (Mason) Gibson in 1948 and the two were happily married for 51 years.

Allyn devoted his life to continuing the legacy of the Gibson family business. Gibson's Bakery, a now fifthgeneration family business, was established in 1885 by Allyn's grandfather. Allyn took great pride in working alongside his father; brother, Harold; son, David for over 40 years and grandson, Allyn who will carry on the family tradition. In recent years you could also find his son, Rick at the bakery lending a hand. Allyn could often be found behind the counter passing out homemade candies and donuts to his adoring grandchildren and great-grandchildren.

Allyn, known as Grandpa Gibson to many, loved nothing more than spending time with family. He enjoyed singing and dancing and loved to be on the dance floor with his beloved wife and granddaughters. An avid storyteller, Allyn greatly enjoyed sitting outside Gibson's Bakery visiting and sharing stories with friends and customers. He was a proud member of the Oberlin community and was a 70 year member of the Masons of Ohio.

Allyn was preceded in death by his parents; wife, Melba; brother and sister-in-law, Harold and Marty Gibson; sister and brother-in-law, Helen and Jack Tykal and son, David Gibson.

Allyn leaves behind sons, Rick (Nancy) and Don (Kathy); daughter-in-law, Lorna; nine grandchildren, Ryan (Katie), Stephanie (Luke), Leah (Mike), Krista, Allyn (Erin), Steven, Katie (Greg), Don (Emily) and Annie (Buck); 16 great-grandchildren and many loving nieces and nephews.

The family will receive friends Thursday, Feb. 17, 2022, from 4 to 7 p.m. at The First Church in Oberlin, 106 N. Main Street, Oberlin. Memorial services will be held Friday, Feb. 18, 2022, at 11 a.m. also at The First Church in Oberlin. Reception to follow.

In lieu of flowers, the family would like you to donate to a charity of your choice.

Online condolences may be made to www.cowling funeralhomeoh.com.

CLARENCE WEST, 77, of Vermilion, went home to be with his Lord and Savior on Wednesday, Feb. 9, 2022, at Stein Hospice Care Center. Arrangements by Hempel Funeral Home.

CHRISTINA MARIE RAINEY (nee Godsey), 50, of Amherst, passed away Friday, Feb. 4, 2022, at Mercy Hospital following a lengthy illness. Arrangements by Hempel Funeral Home.

MARTIN VEITH, 91, of Reynoldsburg, Ohio (formerly Amherst), passed away peacefully in his home on Thursday, Feb. 10, 2022, surrounded by his family. Arrangements by Hempel Funeral Home.

Mercy stresses importance of heart health during pandemic The COVID-19 pandemic has disrupted normal life, increased stress levels and made it more challenging to maintain overall health. However, taking care of yourself – and especially your heart – may better protect you from the virus’s impact.

“Emergency evidence suggests COVID-19 patients with heart disease may be more likely to need hospitalization or even die from the virus,” said cardiologist Wes Holiday. “However, many of the cardiovascular risk factors associated with those more dire consequences

are things we have in our power to change. People who adopt healthier behaviors can strengthen their defenses against COVID-19 while also reducing their long-term risk from cardiovascular disease.”

The top ways to start improving your heart health include a nutritious diet, staying physically active, losing excess weight, managing blood pressure, controlling cholesterol, reducing blood sugar and quitting smoking.

Pandemic precautions – good hand hygiene, social distancing, masking and vaccination – are also key to stay-

ing healthy because the COVID-19 virus has proven harmful to the heart.

“Cardiovascular complications have commonly been reported among COVID-19 patients. In some cases, it can cause inflammation in the heart muscle. It may also directly harm the heart by disrupting the balance between oxygen supply and demand,” said Holiday. “Fatigue, chest pain and shortness of breath are all symptoms frequently reported by patients who end up experiencing the effects of the virus long after their initial infection.”

ZIEGLER

FROM A1 Schools employee, but without back pay for the year she’d been out of work.

Nor was she allowed to return to her old duties.

Instead, Ziegler’s former lunchroom job was given at a lesser rate of pay to Amanda Lawson, whom the suit says is about 30 years old.

The school board “used the ‘lunch shaming’ incident as an opportunity to act adversely, hoping to outright fire the plaintiff

because of her age, not expecting her to grieve the termination,” the suit says.

It alleges that the board’s motive was to “humiliate (Ziegler) into quitting her job by reducing her responsibilities and injuring her public reputation,” and as a result Ziegler resigned Aug. 5, 2021, because she was “no longer able to tolerate the abuse” of “intolerable working conditions.”

“No reasonable person would accept being stigmatized with the false label as a violator of a child’s civil rights, someone who starves school children, as a condition of continued employment and suffer a loss of pay and position as further undeserved punishment,” the lawsuit says.

It calls the school board’s conduct “malicious, unprivileged and intentional at all times”

and accuses it of “cruelty, managerial stupidity and gross incompetence, a desire to scapegoat someone who is thought to not have courage to fight injustice committed by the government so the accusers would not have to risk suffering adverse consequences for their disgusting acts….”

Ziegler is seeking trial by a six-member jury, and asking to be awarded compensatory and punitive damages.

TIMKEN

FROM A1 to Ohio because border agents are busy policing undocumented Mexican immigrants.

She advocated for tax cuts. She railed against mask and vaccine mandates. She vowed to bring back manufacturing jobs and to combat “Democratic socialist slide.”

“You are in the driver’s seat,” Timken told the small crowd, repeating many of those planks and basking in applause. “You tell me how you want this country to change.”

Timken rose to power as the chair of the Ohio Republican Party from 2017 to 2021.

Lorain County Commissioner Dave Moore said she had his support when seeking the state party’s top job six years ago. Angry at former Chairman Matt Borges for allegedly running the party “like a dictator,” and spurred on by a letter of recommendation penned by Trump himself, Moore threw his support behind Timken.

Now Trump’s endorsement could again make or break any of the numerous candidates seeking to replace Senator Rob Portman, who has chosen not to seek a third term.

Timken seemed confident she’ll get the former president’s blessing, but the competition for it is fierce, especially from former Ohio Treasurer Josh Mandel.

Also gunning for the Republican nomination are Matt Dolan, Mike Gibbons, Bill Graham, Neil Patel, Mark Pukita and J.D. Vance. That’s already a full field, even without Democrats Tim Ryan, Morgan Harper, Traci Johnson and LaShondra Tinsley all in the mix.

Were she to survive that gauntlet and win office, Timken would be one of two senators from Ohio, serv-

ing alongside Sen. Sherrod Brown, D-Cleveland.

Historically, Brown and Portman have worked across the aisle, especially when it comes to legislation aimed at economic development.

Timken was unable to give specific examples of where she might do the same, however.

“Look, I’m going to Washington to stand on my conservative principles,” she said — “… But I’ll work with Senator Brown when I think it’s going to make a difference in Ohioans’ lives, and it’s what Ohioans are telling me they want done.”

As party chair, Timken said she put 150,000 miles on her car visiting communities all over Ohio to hear their concerns. Now, with the primary voting starting in less than 60 days, she is on track to visit all 88 counties.

Along the way, she’s talked with sheriffs about rising violent crime, rode along with police officers and chatted with everyday residents about the effects of inflation.

At The Brew Kettle, Timken circled around to touch several times on sticker shock at the grocery store and gas pumps, and said she heard from farmers that fertilizer and seed will be four times more expensive this year.

While today she and her steel magnate husband are multi-millionaires, Timken said she grew up in a middle first family. To earn an income, she delivered newspapers, babysat, scooped ice cream and cleaned college dorm bathrooms.

“I’ve been there, trying to make ends meet and trying to live on a budget,” she said. “I understand where people are coming from. In fact, the inflation that’s hitting our

country now hits the people who can afford it the least.”

Many Ohioans are just a car or refrigerator repair away from serious financial trouble, she said.

In Amherst, Timken was asked by former Lorain County Administrator Tom Williams where she stands on economic development policies.

Instead of funding nonprofits, he asked whether she would support sending money to local governments to buy up vacant land so they can attract big corporations and jobs.

Lorain County was courting Intel before it agreed to go to Lordstown, but didn’t have 1,000 free acres to offer, Williams said.

Answering Williams, Timken said the federal government needs to make it easier for counties, like Lorain County, to create industrial parks and trade zones.

Timken also took questions from Kipton Mayor Bob Meilander, including one about corruption in Columbus.

Timken, whose campaign website describes her as “a conservative disruptor,” responded by saying there are foes inside the Ohio Republican Party, “trying to cause problems for it.”

Throughout the night, she repeatedly lashed out at former Gov. John Kasich, whom she’d initially supported for president in 2016 before backing Trump. Kasich, her website claims, transformed the party “into an anti-Trump mess.”

But Timken wrapped up her remarks by saying that if Republicans want to win in the 2022 midterms and gain back the White House in 2024, they need to stick together and back the party’s nominees, no matter what.

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SOLUTION TO CROSSWORD ON PAGE B2

SOLUTION TO SUDOKU ON PAGE B2

ABOUT THE COMMUNITY GUIDE LORAIN COUNTY COMMUNITY GUIDE (USPS 673-960) is published every Thursday, 52 weeks per year by Lorain County Printing & Publishing Company, 225 East Ave., Elyria OH 44035.

SUBSCRIPTION RATES: $40 for 52 weeks in Lorain County; $45 in Erie, Huron, Ashland, Medina, and Cuyahoga counties; $50 in all other Ohio counties; $55 outside Ohio.

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POSTMASTER: Send address changes to Lorain County Community Guide, PO Box 4010, Elyria OH 44036.

Thursday, Feb. 17, 2022

Lorain County Community Guide

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Rediscovering Black soldiers at Westwood Cemetery

HERRICK MEMORIAL LIBRARY 101 Willard Memorial Square, Wellington Read with Putter Putter the friendly therapy dog visits the Herrick Memorial Library from 3:15-4:30 p.m. each Thursday to listen to children read. This is a wonderful way for children to practice their reading skills as Putter listens to the stories that they read aloud. Call the library at (440) 647-2120 to sign up your child for a 15-minute time slot.

Countdown to kindergarten This six-week series of programs geared toward children ages 3-5 and their parents, will take place on Mondays through March 7 at 6 p.m. in the library’s community room. Each program will focus on the five early literacy skills of talking, playing, reading, writing and singing that all children need before starting school.

Kitchen Garden 101 It’s that time of the year, when the seed and plant catalogs arrive in the mail and you start thumbing your way through colorful pages of vegetable pictures. Let the Herrick Memorial Library help you learn how to start a successful vegetable garden that will feed your family and cut your grocery bills.

Guest speaker Fran Blank will teach you how to site your garden, when to plant your favorite veggies and how to deal with those terrible pests. This program will take place Saturday, Feb. 19 from 2-3:30 p.m. in the community room. Registration is requested and can be done in person or by calling (440) 647-2120 by Feb. 17.

American Girl goes to the movies Calling all girls, ages 7-11, and their American Girl dolls: The Herrick Memorial Library Children’s Department is hosting a special day for you from 1:30-3:30 p.m. on Saturday, Feb. 26, with fun things so your doll can enjoy the movies with you. Call (440) 6472120 to reserve a place.

Sign up by Feb. 24. Dolls are invited but not required.

Board meeting The board of trustees will meet at 10:30 a.m. on Tuesday, March 8 at the library. The meeting is open to the public. Masks are required.

Spring wreath how-to Learn to make a simple wreath to celebrate the coming of spring.

This event will be held from 6-7:30 p.m. on Tuesday, March 8.

The library will supply all of the materials for this crafty project — all you need to do is to register by March 4 at the check-out desk or by calling (440) 647-2120.

Space is limited to 15 participants.

Game on Tweens and teens in grades five and up can show off their gaming skills on the library’s Nintendo Switch and Wii games from 1-4 p.m. on Saturday, March 12. Compete against librarians and enjoy light refreshments to keep up your energy level.

Call (440) 647-2120 by Thursday, March 10 to register.

Will Wellington miss out on July 4 fireworks this year?

A meeting to start planning for Wellington’s Fourth of July celebration has been set for 2 p.m. on Sunday, March 6 at the Route 58 LCCC branch on the north side of town.

But festivities could look entirely different in 2022, said Main Street Wellington Director Jenny Artnz.

The Wellington Area Chamber of Commerce, which for years has organized Independence Day observances, has disbanded. Main Street is asking nonprofits, businesses and residents to help carry the holiday forward, but is “almost trying to rebrand July 4” by adding fresh events.

Because of supply chain issues related to the COVID-19 pandemic, the village’s most popular tradition is in jeopardy, according to Mayor Hans Schneider.

“Because it’s such in flux right now, there’s a very good potential there won’t be fireworks,” he told City

Council last week. “We’re trying to race the clock here.”

The vendor that normally handles Wellington’s launch from the Lorain County Fairgrounds said fireworks may still be possible, but to expect a significant increase in cost, said Arntz.

Join Adrienne Sato at 7 p.m. on Tuesday, Feb. 22 for a Black History Month program about the creation of a new self-guided tour highlighting African American Civil War soldiers memorialized in Oberlin’s Westwood Cemetery.

Sato is a second-year Oberlin College student from Louisville, Kentucky, and an intern at the Oberlin Heritage Center. She will discuss her year-long work researching the formation of African American Union regiments, known as the United States Colored Troops.

She’ll also talk about the individuals who answered the call, as well as provide biographical narratives of a few of these men.

Sato will present this free program via Zoom. Preregistration is required at www.tinyurl.com/OberlinWestwood.

United Methodist Women serve cabbage roll dinner A cabbage roll dinner to benefit the Friends of the Herrick Memorial Library will be held from 4-7 p.m. on Monday, Feb. 21 at First United Methodist Church in Wellington.

The event is for pick-up only, with no dine-in option.

The menu includes cabbage rolls, au gratin potatoes, green beans, applesauce, roll and dessert. The cost is $10 per dinner by cash or check only.

Pre-order by Feb. 18 by calling (440) 647-2120.

The event is sponsored by the United Methodist Women.

Hospice seeks volunteers Volunteers are needed at Hospice of the Western Reserve.

It is seeking new volunteers to serve patients and families in hospice and palliative care programs throughout northern Ohio. Various opportunities are available and may vary by location; there are also virtual and nonclinical opportunities to serve.

To start the process of joining the team, visit www. hospicewr.org/volunteer or call (216) 255-9090.

ARTHRELL

FROM A1 a long time.”

Bill Arthrell, of Cleveland Heights, learned a love of history from his parents, George and Mildred “Millie” Arthrell, his sister-in-law said. Every summer, the whole family would pick a book from any era or place and would study it as a family. Trips were planned to Civil War battlefields and other historic sites.

His empathy was always there, perhaps, but the day it was focused like a laser could be circled on a calendar with a Sharpie: May 4, 1970.

That was the day Arthrell was one of 1,500 protesters at Kent State University when National Guard members opened fire, killing four students, injuring nine and shocking a nation.

He had just turned 21.

Earlier that day, he told The Chronicle-Telegram in 2020, he’d gone to the protest with another student, Robert Stamps.

They’d gotten separated in the rally, and Stamps was seriously wounded when he was shot in the rear by a guardsman.

A year later, Arthrell was one of many protesters indicted over actions that day while the guard members were exonerated. The charges eventually were dropped for lack of evidence.

Arthrell, who spoke often of the events at Kent and whose recollections are included in many recountings of the period, often attributed his indictment as revenge for his actions on campus

a few days before the notorious shootings.

On April 22, word spread on campus that students were going to kill a dog with napalm. A huge crowd showed up at the expected time, outraged and ready to stop it, including an animal welfare officer with a leash.

There stood Arthrell in a suit coat and tie to explain there was no dog and there would be no grotesque display, but if it was illegal to use such a weapon on an animal, why should our government use it on people in Vietnam?

“He felt things intensely,” his sister-in-law said. “There was just a part of him that felt like he needed to add a voice. That was part of his meaning and purpose.”

Arthrell, known to say in later years that he “never met a protest I didn’t like,” would continue to add his voice to many causes of the day — and to rack up dozens of arrests along the way.

“What happened at Kent — that was traumatic,” his sister-inlaw said. “That really mobilized him internally to give a damn.”

He would go on to earn a master’s degree in education from Cleveland State University after graduating from Kent and taught history off and on in the Cleveland Schools before retiring.

But he started his teaching career in Oberlin, where he had graduated just a few years, but a lifetime, before.

John Pardee was a newcomer

©

to Arthrell’s seventh grade class, new to the school and knowing no one.

“He came into my life when I needed him,” Pardee, now an environmental consultant in Oberlin, remembers. “He was energetic. I was tremendously inspired by his passion for social justice, his passion for doing the right thing. And eventually he spent his entire life pursuing those goals, doing everything in his power pursuing this right thing. And besides that, I just liked him. He was engaging, and funny. He cared for his students.

He was just a great guy. He was extremely different and proud of that, I think. He was not afraid to stand up and be counted.”

Arthrell lived a vagabond life, visiting different countries and living in several.

Years later, he lived briefly in Thailand, “touched by the sweetness of the people, the gentle heart of the people,” sister-in-law Claudia Arthrell said.

He ventured to Vietnam at the time, moved to make apologies for the war.

He spent stints living in Germany, Great Britain, Israel, New York City and most recently Ukraine, moved by the plight of the Ukrainian unrest following the Maidan Revolution.

Just watching the killing of 130 protesters on television threw him into a deep depression; within weeks, he was on a plane to begin a series of yearly sojourns to spend

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weeks and months there. He was part of a documentary, “Ukraine: Path to Freedom,” told through foreigners, and he wrote a book of poetry, “Ukrainian Heart.”

He had six copies of his book on the last day of his life, and was looking forward to attending an upcoming event in Cleveland marking the 10th memorial of the Maidan Revolution, Claudia Arthrell said.

“His heart was always for people. He always found the sweetest people, the gentlest people, that had the commitment to freedom in the midst of being overcome by others,” she said.

His family was able to retrieve a few of his belongings from his car after the crash: some journals, his Beatles CDs, a sweat shirt, a tie and an address book.

They are remainders of a remarkable man at times brilliant and at turns frustrating because “he would never show up on time because he might stop to write a poem on the side of a road and directions just never worked with Bill,” Claudia Arthrell said, laughing.

In his journal was a list of the things he was most proud of in his life, written over the prior few weeks.

“Being courageous. Being outrageous. Being a leader in the peace movement. Taking dangerous adventures, and doing it alone. Being almost like Indiana Jones. Being a leader in the peace movement … my sense of loy-

alty and willingness to try new things” were listed, along with quitting drinking years ago and living around the world.

He’d also been reconnecting with old friends while recuperating in Oklahoma, his sisterin-law said, and was looking forward to new adventures with his new knee, even considering a move out west himself.

In the end, William “Bill” Arthrell will be home again, back on Morgan Street, the same street where he grew up in different days. He will once again join his brother Dan, and Millie and George, but now it’s at Westwood Cemetery, not the family’s old home.

The accolades of his many international friends and students from his decades of adventures continue to come in on Arthrell’s social media pages. At his funeral, set for Feb. 25 at First Church in Oberlin, Pardee will be speaking of his lifelong friendship with Arthrell, which continued long past their meeting in the classroom and inspired political activism on Pardee’s part as well.

The two were making plans for a podcast at the time Arthrell died.

“A lot of people talk the talk, they say a lot of things about what needs to be done, but that guy didn’t just give it lip service,” Pardee said. “He always walked the walk. He was dedicated to justice and equality. He was an incredible human being.

Absolutely one of a kind.”

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Lorain County Community Guide

FHS senior was Samaritan Firelands High School senior Mary Dempsey has been recognized for going out of her way to help a community member in need.

On an extremely cold morning, she stopped to help an elderly man working in his yard, according to Principal Catherine Keener. His mailbox and trash can had been knocked over.

Dempsey was concerned about the Claus Road resident’s Mary Dempsey health. She offered to return after school to do the work herself, as long as the man went inside — and stayed true to her promise.

The man and his wife were so grateful, they called the school to praise Dempsey’s actions.

Mercy Health Lorain earns trauma verification Mercy Health Lorain is now a verified Level III Trauma Center, according to the American College of Surgeons.

The new designation recognizes the hospital’s commitment to providing optimal trauma care and meeting standards for assessment, resuscitation, surgery, intensive care and stabilization of patients, according to a news release.

A Level III Trauma Center also provides 24-hour immediate coverage by emergency physicians and prompt availability of surgeons and anesthesiologists.

Mercy Health Lorain opened its Level III Trauma Center in 2019 through a collaboration with MetroHealth, but its certification was provisional until recently.

CLASSIFIEDS HELP WANTED

HIRING!!

Group Home Aides Needed!

Contribute to the community and enrich the lives of others by performing valuable and gratifying work!

Applications and information are available on our website:

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Ohio Driver’s License Driving Record →High School Diploma/GED →Must Pass Drug Test/Physical →Good

LEGALS NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARINGS Please be advised that Lorain City Council will host a public hearing on Monday, March 14, 2022 in the Lorain City Council Chamber at 200 West Erie Ave., Lorain, Ohio. The hearing will commence at 5:45 p.m. to discuss the following item: ZCA 1-2022 - An application to rezone PPN: 02-01-006-131004 @ 1154 West 17th Street from B-2 to R-3. William Arnold is the applicant.

The Lorain City Planning Commission met on February 2, 2022 and recommended approval of the item above to Lorain City Council. Copies of all documentation related to this proposal will be on file for public inspection in the Office of the Clerk of Council, 200 West Erie Avenue, Lorain, Ohio. Please contact Nancy_Greer@cityoflorain.org for additional information. NANCY GREER, CMC L.C.C.G. 2/10-17/22 20697285 LEGAL NOTICE 0-21-36 An Ordinance establishing the salaries of the members of Council and Council President.

0-21-37 An Ordinance to bid and award contract for sludge removal services for the City’s Water Pollution Control Center for 2022-2023.

0-21-38 An Ordinance authorizing an agreement with various Lorain County political subdivisions to extend the agreement for technical rescue response for the Fire Department for the years 2022-2026.

0-21-39 Ordinance establishing the salary for the Clerk of Council for the years 2022 and 2023 and repealing all ordinances in conflict herewith.

0-21-40 An Ordinance establishing the salary of the Treasurer of the City of Amherst for the years 2022, 2023, 2024, and 2025 and repealing all ordinances in conflict herewith.

0-21-41 An Ordinance establishing the salary of the Auditor of the City of Amherst for the years 2022, 2023, 2024, and 2025 and repealing all ordinances in conflict 0-21-42 An Ordinance reappropriating funds in various departments.

0-21-43 Ordinance authorizing the Mayor to enter into a contract for professional services with Bramhall Engineering and Surveying Company relating to the 2022 Street Rehabilitation Program.

0-21-44 An Ordinance authorizing the soliciting of bids for the Milan Avenue Road Improvement Project and autho-

rizing the award of the contract for such work to the lowest responsive and responsible bidder.

0-21-45 An Ordinance approving the 2022 interim budget.

0-21-46 Ordinance declaring the ward boundaries of the City of Amherst.

0-21-47 An Ordinance approving the final development plan and owner’s/developer’s agreement for Lily’s Gated Community and rezoning and approving Lily’s Gated Community as a Planned Development District.

R-21-03 A Resolution requesting that the County Auditor of Lorain County, pursuant to Ohio Revised Code Section 5705.03(B), certify to the City of Amherst the total current tax valuation of the City and the dollar amount of revenue that would be generated by one (1.0) mill for the purpose of providing and maintaining fire apparatus, appliances, buildings, and sites therefor for the Fire Department of the City of Amherst, Ohio Pursuant to Section 5705.19(I) of the Ohio Revised Code.

R-21-04 Resolution accepting amounts and rates as determined by the Budget Commission and authorizing the necessary tax levies and certifying them to the County Auditor.

R-21-05 A Resolution requesting that the County Auditor of Lorain County, pursuant to Ohio revised Code Section 5705.03(B), certify to the City of Amherst the total current tax valuation of the City and the dollar amount of revenue that would be generated by one (1.0) Mill for the purpose of providing and maintaining fire apparatus, appliances, buildings, and sites therefor for the Fire Department of the City of Amherst, Ohio Pursuant to Section 5705.19(I) of the Ohio Revised Code; repealing all Ordinances and Resolutions in conflict herewith.

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. 2/17/22 20697577 PUBLICATION OF LEGISLATION The following is a summary of legislation adopted by Lorain City Council on February 7, 2022. 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 8-22 Recognizing & commending Nancy Greer upon her retirement after 30 years of public service. 9-22* Amending Reso 1-22, Council Rule 42- Conduct. 10-22 Auth S/S Director to apply for and enter into contract for a grant to fund the construction of the Planned Active Transportation SRTS. 11-22* Supporting establishing an Executive Training Facility operated by Military Veterans. Ordinance 10-22* Auth S/S Director to apply for and accept a grant w/ the Lorain Historical Society for submission to the National Register of Historical Places.

11-22* Assessing the cost of abating nuisance by removing litter/garbage/rubbish/junk during the current calendar year.

12-22 Auth the S/S Director to modify a contract w/ GPD for professional services related to the design of 3 intersection safety improvements (W 21st & Leavitt, Oberlin & Washington) 13-22 Auth the S/S Director to apply for, accept & enter into WPCLP agrmt on behalf of the City for construction of Martin’s Run Pump Station Improvement project.

14-22* Auth the S/S Director to enter into contracts w/ Williams Brothers Builders for renovation and alterations of Oakwood Pool & bathhouse at Oakwood Park. 15-22 Auth the S/S Director to enter into a contract for the purpose of rehabilitation of E36th St from Globe to Grove 16-22* Auth the S/s Director to enter into a contract w/ the highest rated and ranked engineering firm for prof services related to the E. 28th St Rehab project 17-22 Adopting the rec of Planning Commission to approve request to rezone 6301 W. Erie Avenue from R-3, B-2 and R1-B to I-1. 18-22 Adopting the rec of Planning Commission to approve request to rezone 5445 Beavercrest Dr. to Mixed Use. 19-22 Adopting the rec of Planning Commission to approve request to rezone SE Broadway & E 22nd Street from B-2 to MU. 20-22* Auth Mayor to accept 2022 NOPEC Energized Community Grant for $114,797. 21-22* Appropriation. 22-22* Auth Mayor to accept Home Investment Partnerships- American Rescue Plan (HOME-ARP) from HUD & execute all necessary documents. 23-22 Auth the S/S Director to advertise for proposals for the sale of real property no longer needed for municipal purposes. (*Denotes legislation was passed as an emergency.)

L.C.C.G. 2/14-24/22 20697544

Bid for Underground Railroad home project gets Oberlin Council backing JASON HAWK EDITOR

OBERLIN — Traveling under the cover of darkness, pursued by slave-catchers and in fear for their lives, Black families could find a hiding place at Bruce Wilson Evans’ door.

The Oberlin carpenter and abolitionist’s home at 33 East Vine St. was a safe place to rest before continuing the dangerous journey north to freedom.

Now City Council is backing a $30,000 bid to help restore the porch of the onetime Underground Railroad stop.

It voted last week to endorse a grant application to the Ohio History Connection — the state’s preservation office. If successful, the Oberlin Heritage Center and Wilson Bruce Evans Home Historical Society plan to remove the house’s 1927 porch and replace it with an entrance that would have been familiar during the Civil War era.

Carol Lasser, manager of

the Evans historical society, said the goal is to eventually restore the entire home to have it looked when Evans lived there, from 1856 until his death in 1898.

“This will be a major step forward for us,” she said.

The Evans house is on the National Register of Historic Places and has also been designated an Oberlin landmark, according to Carrie Porter, the city’s planning and development director.

Evans’ place in local history has also been enshrined in numerous books. He and brother Henry Evans were both participants in the 1858 march from Oberlin to Wellington to rescue John Price, an escaped former slave who was kidnapped by slavecatchers.

While the Evans brothers were born into freedom in North Carolina, they risked their lives time and again by defying the Fugitive Slave Act of 1850 and illegally harboring desperate people seeking safety in Canada.

The Oberlin Historic Preservation Commission has already given its blessing to the porch replacement

project, Porter said. All that remains is to get the funding.

Council voted to fast-track its support of the state grant application to meet a Feb. 18 deadline. Doing so does not mean any taxpayer money will be diverted from the city budget, Porter said.

This is not the first time Council has put its stamp of approval on a historic preservation grant application. It did the same for the First Church of Oberlin United Church of Christ when it asked for state cash to renovate its Meeting House, which also has a rich history of being a center of abolitionist work.

Several officials spoke up about the Evans home’s importance to Oberlin history.

Councilwoman Eboni Johnson called it “a real jewel in our community.”

She was among those who toured the home last year when Evans’ descendants held an inaugural meeting of their historical society.

They were joined by local residents concerned about the preservation of African American history, according to Lasser.

“There’s really some beautiful details in there that I think the renovation will bring out,” Johnson said.

“More power to you,” Councilman Ray English told Lasser, “not just with this grant proposal, but the other work that’s needed to really complete the renovation of the home and begin actual programming.”

Appropriately located near Oberlin’s Martin Luther King Jr. Park, the Evans home has been vacant since 1997.

In a 2021 presentation, Charles Hall of Clevelandbased City Architecture outlined priorities for bringing it back to its original stature. At the top of the list was a new roof to replace the 127-yearold Pennsylvania blue slate, followed by the front porch and rear wing reconstruction.

The original hope had been to open the home to the public in 2022. That’s unlikely to happen now, according to Lasser.

If all works out, eventually the building will be used as a meeting hall for up to 40 people, and for educational programs and exhibits.

Wellington cops chase boot tracks looking for catalytic converter thief DAVE O’BRIEN THE CHRONICLE-TELEGRAM

WELLINGTON — Wellington police didn't have to look too hard to track where their suspect went when they were called to investigate the theft of a catalytic converter Jan. 31 from a victim's car on Barker Street.

All they had to do was follow a set of "distinct" boot prints the suspect left in the snow to another residence only about 700 feet away, according to a search warrant unsealed in Lorain County Common Pleas Court.

No charges appeared to have been filed as of Friday after the Feb. 1 search of a Hamilton Street house by Wellington police, according to a search of a potential suspect's name in Oberlin Municipal Court and Common Pleas Court records.

Judge Chris Cook signed the warrant on Jan. 31, giving Wellington police permission to search a house in the 100 block of Hamilton Street for stolen catalytic converters as well as tools and boots possibly involved in the theft, among other items.

In an affidavit, Wellington police Officer Ethan Chaperlo wrote that he responded to a house in the 300 block of Barker Street in the village on Jan. 31 to take a theft report. The son of the

homeowner reported he was checking his father's residence when he "noticed footprints walking to the side of his Ford SUV which was parked in the driveway," Chaperlo wrote in his request for a search warrant.

Chaperlo noted "an impression in the snow of an individual who had been lying down, and discovered that (the) catalytic converter was missing from the vehicle." He then noticed "footprints in the snow that led away from (the victim's) vehicle around the south side of the garage, leading to Adams Street."

The footprints also had a "distinct triangle in the boot imprint in the snow" and Chaperlo followed them west on Adams Street and south through a yard to the driveway of a house in the 100 block of Hamilton Street.

No one was home there, but Chaperlo saw more footprints leading from the sidewalk back through a small field "leading directly to the driveway" of the victim's house, he wrote.

Chaperlo, Wellington Police Chief Tim Barfield and three other Wellington officers searched the Hamilton Street residence on Feb. 1, according to an inventory attached to the search warrant.

Seized from the residence were multiple pieces of cut exhaust pipe; a sawzall and dozens of used and new sawzall blades; three jacks including a car jack,

a floor jack and a 4-ton bottle jack; miscellaneous tools and equipment batteries; a pair of gloves; a jacket; drug paraphernalia including a suspected methamphetamine pipe, spoons, straws, lighters and a used hypodermic needle, according to the inventory.

Catalytic converter theft has risen dramatically in the past several years, according to the National Insurance Crime Bureau. The NICB reported just last month that thefts of catalytic converters had jumped more than 300 percent. Catalytic converters can cost between $800 and $1,200, according to J.D. Power.

Catalytic converters use precious metals including platinum, palladium and rhodium to convert engine exhaust to less environmentally harmful gases, according to the NICB. Those metals have risen in price in recent years and with that increase in price, thieves have increasingly been stealing catalytic converters to sell to scrap metal dealers for a profit.

Vans and vehicles that sit higher off the ground are especially susceptible to having a thief cut their exhaust systems off with battery-powered tools. Thefts seem to also increase in colder months such as December, the month in 2020 that accounted for 16 percent of all catalytic converter thefts in the nation, according to the NICB.

Water meter project ‘in its infancy’ JASON HAWK EDITOR

WELLINGTON — Vowing transparency in what is bound to be an expensive undertaking, Village Council set aside time last week to discuss new water meters.

Wellington is losing money on its older models, which after more than two decades in many cases are nowhere near accurate, according to Water Department Superintendent Gregory Frenk.

The general sentiment on Council seems to be that a village-wide move to new technology is needed — namely, to models that automatically report readings via radio technology without the need for human meter readers.

But that change-over could be a couple of years down the road or more, considering the expense.

“This is going to be a significant project,” Village Manager Jonathan Greever

said in committee talks.

He’s not kidding: When the city of Amherst moved to a modern water meter system several years ago, the cost was about $2.5 million.

That was at pre-pandemic costs. On the other hand, Wellington doesn’t have to buy as many meters as Amherst did, since it has far fewer households.

Frenk and Greever both repeated that plans are in their infancy, and officials have yet to decide just how much to spend and for what kind of features.

Water meters on the market today range vastly in what they can do. Some can detect leaks early — a feature that appeals to Frenk.

He said such models could alert Wellington workers to a problem that needs fixed right away, instead of resulting in a huge surprise bill for a homeowner.

Some metering systems include an online component that allow customers to check their water use in real time. That would be

helpful if, for example, a homeowner suspected a toilet leak and wanted to see how much water was going through their home even though nothing appeared to be running.

Another potential feature is the ability to slow water use if needed. Frenk cautioned, though, that no one is talking about buying a system like those used in drought-parched states like California, which throttle back the ability to use water after a customer hits a certain limit.

Council President Gene Hartman has said several times in the last couple of months that he intends to shine as much light as possible on any plans for a water meter switch-over.

He doesn’t want the public to feel it is being left in the dark.

Greever backed that pledge of openness about the project: “I think that if we are honest, we can make a compelling case about what we can do,” he said.

But Frenk said it’s important for Wellington residents to know there is also a certain amount of expense tied to doing nothing at all about the village’s meter problems.

Every month that goes by still means pouring tax money into replacing broken meters, and paying workers to read them. Those manpower costs would evaporate with new radio-read meters.

“There’s going to be cost savings, potentially, and we’re going to have to factor that in,” Frenk said.

Council has already increased utility rates to compensate for water losses, and to start building a bankroll for a replacement system.

Last month, elected officials voted to incrementally increase water rates by 20 percent and sewer rates by 15 percent over the next three years.

That jump has already started with a 10 percent increase for water and 5 percent increase for sanitary sewer costs, effective immediately.

Thursday, Feb. 17, 2022

Lorain County Community Guide

Page A5

Bruce Bishop | Amherst News-Times

Amherst firefighters at the scene of the crash on Route 2 where a vehicle reportedly failed to stop for traffic that was slowed by a fire.

Semi fire, four-car crash send one to the hospital Bruce Bishop | Community Guide

Lorain County sheriff's deputies leave University Hospitals Elyria Medical Center after one of their fellow officers suffered a medical emergency and died while on duty.

Deputy dies after medical issue at the Justice Center STAFF REPORT

ELYRIA — A Lorain County sheriff's deputy died on what was supposed to be his last day at work at the Justice Center last Wednesday afternoon.

According to a news release from the Sheriff's Office, Deputy Joel Rapose was stricken around 2:30 p.m. He was taken by ambulance to University Hospitals Elyria Medical Center, where he died.

Rapose, an Amherst native, started his law enforcement career with the Grafton Police Department in 1991.

He started working with the sheriff's office in 1996, and was hired full-time two years later. He became a deputy on Sept.

25, 2001, and had announced his intention

to resign from the sheriff's office.

Last Wednesday was scheduled to be his last day at work there.

Law enforcement agencies throughout Lorain County began posting thin blue line images on social media pages that night, some offering thoughts and prayers to the Sheriff’s Office.

The Lorain County Deputies Association and Wellington Police Department changed their profile pictures to include a black band over the regular deputies’ badge.

“Our thoughts and prayers are with the Lorain County Sheriff's Office as we all mourn the loss of one of their deputies,” the Amherst Police Department posted.

“An amazing man gone way too soon.

We’ll take it from here, Deputy.”

Rapose is survived by his father, his fiancee and a 16-year-old son.

Wellington’s old parking ticket system must change JASON HAWK EDITOR

WELLINGTON — An unconstitutional parking ticket policy is being rolled back

by Village Council.

It’s moving to once again make parking violations minor misdemeanors that are handled by Oberlin Municipal Court.

A rule on the books for years allows Wellington police to write tickets for a fine of $10 if paid within 72 hours or $15 thereafter.

A second ticket in the same 12-month period would up the penalty to $20 if paid right away or $25 after three days, and a third violation would be $30 or $35.

If in the space of a year two or more tickets go unpaid for that initial 72-hour period, police are allowed to impound the vehicle.

The only problem is that there’s been no way to contest a parking ticket, said Councilman Guy Wells.

“We had somebody who very much wanted to do that, and we didn’t have a legal way in place to do that,” he said.

Wellington Law Director Stephen Bond said that to keep the village’s enforcement

on the books, “technically” Council would have to come up with a way for tickets to be challenged “to adhere to state code.”

But this is no mere technicality, and it goes beyond state code.

The issue strikes right to the heart of the American legal process as outlined in the Bill of Rights. The Fifth Amendment guarantees due process, the Sixth guarantees the accused a right to a speedy and public trial and both are reiterated in the Fourteenth Amendment.

Wells, who chairs the Police Committee, said he doesn’t know how long the current ticket ordinance has been on the books, except to say “time immemorial.”

Wellington, like many small towns, used to have a mayor’s court. Wells said he suspects that after the mayor’s court was phased out some decades ago the parking ticket ordinance was a loose end that was never wrapped up.

“There’s aren’t reams of parking tickets to take care of anyway,” he said. “We’re not like downtown Cleveland, with the stadium, where there are thousands of cars ready to be ticketed.”

The change went through a first reading last week and is likely to go through two more before a final vote.

League of Women Voters talk about ‘Making Democracy Work’ “Making Democracy Work: What’s Happening and What You Can Do” will be presented from 7:15-8:15 p.m. on Monday, Feb. 21 by the League of Women Voters of the Oberlin Area.

The virtual Presidents Day program, in honor of Black History Month, will feature community and League leaders looking at democracy through the lens of diversity, equity and inclusion.

Jeanine Donaldson, director of the Elyria YWCA and Lorain County Racial Equity Center, will discuss initiatives of the Oberlin League: voting rights, improving elections, money in politics and redistricting specifically from the perspective of social equity.

Oberlin Councilwoman Eboni Johnson will present aspects of the city’s social equity plan. She served on the committee that developed the plan over the past year, looking at education, housing, policing and access to medical care.

LWVOA Voter Registration Coordinator Maureen Simen will discuss registration efforts and the May primary election. Vice President Rhys Price Jones will talk about voter education using Vote411 and the Voter Guide.

President Deb Cocco will present information about the national League focus on programs and priorities for 2022-2024.

Register for this Zoom program at www. tinyurl.com/OberlinLeague.

JASON HAWK EDITOR

AMHERST — A car plowed into stopped traffic on Route 2 Friday afternoon as firefighters worked to get a semi fire under control near the Oak Point Road exit.

Both incidents could have been much worse, according to Amherst emergency workers — only one person was rushed by LifeCare ambulance to Mercy Health Lorain Hospital with what appeared to be non-life threatening injuries.

Problems started when a triple-axle truck’s rear passenger tire caught fire, said Fire Chief Jim Wilhelm.

It’s unclear how it started — the brakes are a candidate — but he said the fire grew so hot that it melted through the aluminum trailer.

Limestone the truck was hauling was spilled all over the highway, resulting in the closure of one of the eastbound lanes.

The semi driver was fine, according to police Sgt. Jacob Perez. In fact, Wilhelm said he was able to disconnect the tractor, which was perfectly fine, and drive away. But the danger on the highway hadn’t passed.

A Hyundai sedan slammed into a Chevy Silverado stopped by the work ahead, and careened into a Chrysler Town and Country minivan and a Ford Econoline, Perez said.

“He actually ripped the whole back tire and rim off that (Chevy) truck,” he said.

The driver, whose license was suspended, told police he’d looked down to answer a phone call from his wife, according to Perez. Witnesses said the Hyundai didn’t slow down at all before plowing into traffic.

That driver was taken to the hospital. His name was not yet available Friday.

Police planned to charge him with failure to maintain an assured clear distance ahead, as well as driving under suspension.

Vermilion firefighters

were called for mutual aid during the crash, which Amherst police Lt. Dan Makruski said shut down both eastbound lanes for 20 to 30 minutes. Vaughn’s Towing was called to clean up the wreckage.

And still the danger was not over.

After Amherst firefighters left, they received word the semi trailer was on fire again.

Wilhelm said tires are notoriously hard to extinguish once they catch fire.

The semi trailer was sitting on a pile of limestone and was moved, allowing it to reignite — so his crews pulled an about-face and headed back to Route 2 to get the job done.

They cleared the scene around 2 p.m.

Interstate Towing was used to clean up the burned semi trailer, since a huge flatbed was needed to haul it away. The Ohio Department of Transportation used a small loader to remove the limestone so the highway could fully open.

Page A6

Thursday, Feb. 17, 2022

Lorain County Community Guide

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Former Oberlin Schools custodian alleges bullying

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ELYRIA — A former middle school custodian is suing the Oberlin Board of Education, saying she was fired after being bullied over an “unsightly skin condition.”

Beth Thodt, 50, of Oberlin, is accusing the school board of discriminating against her in violation of Ohio labor laws.

In a lawsuit filed last week in the Lorain County Court of Common Pleas, attorney Michael Conway of Brunswick said his client was hired Jan. 20, 2021, and was terminated less than five months later when officials voted for a reduction in force.

The school board advertised to hire a custodian at the same level no later than July of last year, “which makes that excuse a sham,” the suit says.

The RIF was a pretext and not the real motivation for ending Thodt’s employment, according to the suit.

It claims supervisors became aware of Thodt’s skin disorder when they saw her picking at wounds on her arms. She also has disabling psychiatric symptoms and limitations, the suit said, yet can still perform the required job duties.

School officials allegedly demanded Thodt’s personal medical information “and harassed and bullied her when she

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WELLINGTON TWP — A Shelby man was killed and four other people injured in a traffic crash on Hawley Road south of state Route 18 on Saturday, the State Highway Patrol said.

Troopers responded just before 3:30 p.m. to find a 2013 Chevrolet Equinox being driven south on Hawley Road by Tyler Wallace, 32, crossed the center line and hit a 2016 GMC Denali head-on.

Wallace, who was not

wearing a seat belt, suffered fatal injuries and was pronounced dead at the scene, the Highway Patrol said in a news release.

The Denali was being driven by Debra Vanderpool, 60, of Willard. She was transported first to University Hospitals Elyria Medical Center then later to MetroHealth Hospital in Cleveland.

Passenger Tammy Papai, 54, of Wellington, also was transported to UH Elyria for treatment.

Two children in the Denali were taken to Rainbow Babies Hospital in Cleve-

land. None of the injuries in the Denali were lifethreatening.

Hawley Road was closed for three hours. The Wellington Fire Department, South Lorain County Ambulance, Central Lorain County Ambulance, Lorain County Sheriff’s Office, Lorain County Coroner's Office and Bauer’s Towing Service all responded to the scene.

Speed is believed to have been a factor in the crash, which remains under investigation.

It was Lorain County's second fatal crash of 2022.

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asked for reasonable job restructuring accommodations for her condition, which sometimes made her late to work…” the suit says.

After severe bullying incidents, Thodt suffered a mental breakdown, according to the suit. It said someone soiled restrooms and hallways with leaves and refuse after Thodt had just finished cleaning, and in another incident someone left religious literature with her.

Thodt was so frustrated that she offered to resign and then took it back – but the Board of Education claimed it was a valid resignation, the suit claims.

It calls the board’s conduct “disgusting,” “extreme” and “outrageous” and said it “must not be tolerated in any civil society.”

“A society is judged as civil or evil by how it treats the defenseless and the weak who who need help,” like Thodt, the suit says. She “trusted the employer to treat her with respect and the employer intentionally abused that trust to injure” Thodt.

She is demanding a jury trial and seeking compensatory and punitive damages for loss of her $21,588 income plus benefits, as well as for emotional distress.

Conway, who represents Thodt, is the same attorney who on filed a suit the same day against the Wellington Schools on behalf of former employee Barbara Ziegler.

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Lorain County is seeking bids for what the Board of Commissioners said is more than $4.7 million worth of work to be done on the runway pavement and lights at the Lorain County Regional Airport in New Russia Township.

Commissioners voted last week to advertise for bids for the project in The Chronicle-Telegram. Bids will be opened at 2 p.m. March 22.

The estimated cost of all work on the project is $4,732,045. A pre-bid meeting, which is not mandatory, will be held at 10 a.m. March 1 at the airport,

44050 Russia Rd. Commissioners also voted unanimously to accept a $59,000 Airport Rescue Grant from the Federal Aviation Administration to be used "for costs related to operations, personnel, cleaning, sanitization, janitorial services, combating the spread of pathogens at the airport, and debt service payments," according to the board's agenda.

There is no local match, as the FAA will pick up the entire cost of the grant.

The airport received a $23,000 COVID-19 relief grant in April 2021. In April 2020, it received a $69,000 grant to help it respond to the pandemic.

The airport operates 24/7 and receives funding from user fees, state grants and the FAA.

$50K in crash rescue tools ordered for Oberlin FD JASON HAWK EDITOR

OBERLIN — Some heavy-duty tools priced at $50,900 are being ordered so Oberlin firefighters can better cut through the wreckage of crashed cars.

City Council cast a unanimous emergency vote last week to approve the purchase of a “jaws of life”-style cutter, spreader and ram.

Fifty years ago, firefighters had to rely on tow truck operators to rip apart crashed vehicles so victims inside could be pulled free, Oberlin Fire Chief Robert Hanmer said.

Then along came modern extraction tools that could easily breach those vehicles – today they’re carried on the city’s pumper trucks.

But the Fire Department’s current tools are almost worn out – and the aged ones are not effective when dealing with newer alloys, Hanmer said. As “car technology evolves with newer and stronger metals, we need to have the tools readily available to meet these challenges,” he wrote in a memo to Council.

The new equipment will replace a set bought in 1998, and will be batterypowered. That means the extraction gear will no

longer be tethered to fire engines by electrical cords, which hampers firefighters.

“It gives them a lot more flexibility to get closer to the cars,” Hanmer told Council. “They don’t have to park right on top of the car with the truck, so they’re very efficient tools.”

The deal through Hurst eDraulic Extrication Tools of Warren includes the purchase of four mini-cutters that can be carried inside buildings. Hanmer said that if his crews have to go inside an Oberlin College dorm, for example, the mini-cutters could trivially pop open doors instead of using an ax or pry bar.

B

OUR TOWNS

Lorain County Community Guide • Thursday, Feb. 17, 2022

Projects pump up Amherst’s $49M budget JASON HAWK EDITOR

AMHERST — A $49.17 million budget is being considered

by City Council, flush with money for special projects.

Even through the challenges of the COVID-19 pandemic, Amherst has seen a string of good years, with tax income consistently gaining steam, said Deputy Auditor Gwen Melbar.

Officials have also been frugal with spending, which meant they are able to roll over $2.34 million that went unspent last year.

Mayor Mark Costilow presented what he deemed “a pretty simple budget” for 2022 to the Finance Committee last week, with notable increases in capital outlay accounts.

One of the most notable bumps was in the street improvement fund. In a follow-up interview, Costilow said he included money to add parking spaces downtown, and to add more roads to the summer paving list.

He is also asking Council to approve a $400,000 increase for storm water improvements, doubling what was allocated last year.

That cash would go toward drainage work on the south side of Cooper Foster Park Road near the Lorain border, where extreme storms tend to push water onto the roadway.

The work is needed to minimize flooding, which has been a priority for two decades, the mayor said. Basement flooding has all but been eliminated compared to the nightmare days of the late 1990s and early 2000s, but the system is still vulnerable.

Councilman Chuck Winiarski, R-At Large, who was on Council through many flooding events of years past, threw his support

behind the $400,000 increase.

“I hope we spend every nickel of it, and maybe some more if we can afford it,” he said.

But Winiarski also asked Auditor Derek Pittak to provide more information before the final budget vote about Amherst’s debt picture. The city has borrowed millions in the past to pay for storm sewers and water treatment upgrades.

The 2022 budget proposal also reflects increases to parks and Office on Aging funds. Costilow said his hope is to make renovations to Nordson Depot and potentially move the senior citi-

Busy builders

zens services department into the Franklin Avenue facility, which is now owned by the city.

The move would allow the space to be staffed all day, he said. The plan is to allow seniors and other groups to use it for meetings and activities, and possibly rent it out for small weddings or receptions.

Councilman David Janik asked what would happen to the Office on Aging’s Cleveland Avenue building if it were to move. According to Costilow, that would almost certainly be up to Council, which could decide to repurpose BUDGET PAGE B2

Brains and pains Amherst forum explores how teenagers develop

JASON HAWK EDITOR

Jason Hawk | Wellington Enterprise

Builders Club President Kloey Helms, Vice President Lilyan Armstrong and Treasurer Corwin Scyoc, all eighth-graders, work on a poster project.

McCormick kids learning everyone needs a little help JASON HAWK EDITOR

WELLINGTON — The world can be brutal. A group of McCormick Middle School students wants to make it a kinder, gentler place.

The Builders Club is experiencing a revival this year in Wellington, with a full slate of projects aimed at helping Lorain County residents in need.

“Everybody needs help sometimes,” said President Kloey Helms, a Wellington eighth-grader, while making tri-fold posters last Thursday afternoon to spread the message.

Club members spent the end of the day crafting heart-shaped Valentine’s Day “candygrams,” which they sold to classmates.

The proceeds will go to help teachers restock classrooms with everyday

supplies at the end of the school year, said adviser Tracy Strait.

Next they’re gearing up to run a contest in the Wellington Schools, collecting goods to fill 19 backpacks for the Neighborhood Alliance Haven House.

The 68-bed shelter at 1536 E. 30th St. in Lorain takes in men, women and children who have nowhere else to go — it’s the county’s only around-the-clock emergency shelter.

Seventh-grader Dominic Reyna, who serves as the Builders Club secretary, said he’s excited about helping to donate the backpacks.

“It’s mostly helping people who don’t have the money to help themselves, for buying food for their family,” he said.

Dominic said he knows people who have struggled with hunger. Just knowing the problem exists is dif-

ficult, he said.

Builders Club is one of several Kiwanis Club efforts in Wellington.

It’s the “middle stage” between the younger grades K-Kids and older Key Club.

The name can throw some people.

Builders Club isn’t about engineering or construction, but about building character.

“These kids are learning to help those around them, to look around and see the need and do something about it,” said Strait.

One of the greatest needs for the area is blood, which is in critically low supply.

Strait’s kids have organized a blood drive for 8:30 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. on Wednesday, March 9 at McCormick. To sign up, visit BUILDERS PAGE B2

A little help needed for 2022 Chalk Walk CHRISTINA YUHASZ FOR THE NEWS-TRIBUNE

OBERLIN — As people walk through downtown Oberlin on a summer day in June, they'll see a city awash in colors and art.

Sidewalk art, that is.

The Oberlin Chalk Walk was brought to life by Barry Richard in 2005, after getting an idea from a friend.

“In 2005, a friend sent me pictures of elaborate chalk art pieces done on the streets in Italy,” said Richard, chairperson of the

Oberlin Chalk Walk Committee.

He reached out to the director of Main Street Oberlin, Geoff Cummings, and the director of the Allen Art Museum, Stephanie Wiles, to pitch the idea.

“They were both very supportive of the idea and pledged financial support to buy pastels and hire local artists,” Richard said.

The Oberlin Chalk Walk takes place downtown on the two main streets in Oberlin from the Hall Auditorium down to the post office.

“The Chalk Walk is ab-

solutely free, about 1,000 people come to each year,” said Amber Manahan, a representative of Oberlin Heritage Center, for the event. “The importance of The Oberlin Chalk Walk is for families to get out. It is also a way for local artists to bring some color to the Oberlin streets. Oberlin is a fairly artistic community.”

One thing that has changed this year is that in the last two years, the cost of pastels has gone up by 50 percent. To buy them for participants, the Oberlin Chalk Walk has created a GoFundMe page.

AMHERST — If you’ve argued with a teenager and lived to tell about it, you’ve probably walked away asking exactly how their brain works.

“It does, I promise,” joked Amherst Sarah Schools Director of Student Services Walker Sarah Walker in an informative talk last week about adolescent development.

She drew on experiences raising three teenagers of her own and incorporated biology and psychology in an effort to help parents understand what is going on inside their kids’ minds.

It’s not always pretty. But there Megan are good physiological reasons why Jarmusz young people often act on impulse, run into trouble, get involved in fights and engage in risky behavior, Walker said.

To start, scientists say the adolescent period of brain development doesn’t just include the teenage years. It stretches from about ages 12 to 24.

During that uncertain, experimental time, those “kids” aren’t just dealMary Jane ing with hormones, immaturity and Loushin rebellion.

“There are so many things happening and so many connections happening in an adolescent’s brain that it’s just really hard for them to manage it all,” Walker said.

“Yes, they’re testing boundaries.

Yes, they’re pushing your buttons.

Yes, they’re trying to see how far they can go,” she said. “But they’re Ken also being very impulsive and quick Fritz with their decision-making.”

That has everything to do with the order in which parts of the brain develop.

The amygdala is first. It’s the control center for emotions and motivation, “the place that controls immediate responses, controls your instinct,” Walker said.

The last part of the brain to fully develop is the

“I think the increased cost is due to lack of competition and supply chain issues. Our normal vendor, Reeves, is not currently selling pastels, and the only supplier we could find to buy pastels in big sets costs about 50 percent more than in 2020 when we last made a purchase,” Richard said.

You can donate at www.tinyurl.com/ChalkWalk2022.

The Oberlin Chalk Walk is usually held on the third or fourth Saturday of June.

This year the event will be held from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.

June 25.

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SUBMIT YOUR NEWS TO: NEWS@LCNEWSPAPERS.COM

Page B2

Thursday, Feb. 17, 2022

Lorain County Community Guide

Magical science show set for Feb. 21 at LCCC Wellington

Golf league seeks players

A magical science show by Lorain County Community College’s “Professor Reggie, the Rock n’ Roll Doctor” is set for 1 p.m. on Monday, Feb. 21 at the LCCC Wellington Center.

“Professor Reggie” is Regan Silvestri, associate professor of chemistry at LCCC. He has performed his one-man science magic show at local schools throughout Northeast Ohio, reaching

The Amherst City Golf League has openings for players for the upcoming season.

Two-man teams or singles to play as subs or regulars are needed. This is a men’s league, mostly retirees, for fun with competition. It plays Tuesday afternoons at Forest Hills. Contact Gregg at (440) 277-7349 if interested.

thousands of students.

“This is a science entertainment show for kids while they are off from school on President’s Day,” said Silvestri.

Kids will see a gummy bear disappear into a dazzling display of fireworks, be astonished as elephant toothpaste explodes high into the air and astounded as a 3,000-year-old genie is

summoned from a bottle to reveal the mysteries of the ancient universe. The show will also answer burning questions such as: Can swimming eggs fly?

What are Frankenstein’s teeth made of?

And why are goopy goobers so gooey?

For more information or to register for this free event, contact Amy Kiley at (440) 647-1776 or akiley@ lorainccc.edu.

BUDGET

FROM B1 or sell the building.

Officials are already looking ahead to what changes this year could mean for the 2023 budget.

Union contracts are up for re-negotiation, so more money has been put

in administrative budgets for outside counsel during those talks.

Costilow and Pittak said they plan to hire a consultant to do a salary comparison study this year.

They want to see how

OBERLIN CITY COUNCIL CLERK’S OFFICE

Amherst’s pay compares to similar cities.

“We don’t want to lose people solely because we’re not competitive with other cities,” Costilow said.

Amherst is operating

on a temporary budget right now that will carry it through the end of March.

That’s when the year’s permanent budget must be passed and sent to the county.

NOTICE OF BOARDS AND COMMISSIONS VACANCIES

The following City commissions have vacancies for terms expiring on the dates provided below. Applications for interested parties are available at the Clerk of Council’s office, located at 85 South Main Street, Oberlin, Ohio 44074, or by submitting a form via the City’s website, at https://www.cityofoberlin.com.

Applications will be received until filled.

# OF CURRENT VANCIES

DATE TERM EXPIRES

Oberlin Community Improvement Corporation

1

12/31/2023

Resource Conservation and Recovery Commission

1

12/31/2023

Underground Railroad Center Implementation Team

1

Unlimited

BOARD NAME

U.S. PRESIDENTS ACROSS 1. Short for specification 5. Knave 8. *Like President Eisenhower’s head 12. *One fourth of a Presidential term 13. Take-out handout 14. The Beast’s problem in “Beauty and the Beast” 15. *Pres. Eisenhower established this space agency 16. Thought 17. Body of water 18. *#22 and #24 20. First-rate, slangily 21. Terminate, as in mission 22. Lingerie staple 23. Public speaker 26. Ivory tickler 30. “Fresh Prince of ____-Air” 31. Most likely to win 34. Pot contribution 35. By surprise 37. Indian restaurant staple 38. Lacking justification 39. Office communique 40. Greece and Bulgaria peninsula 42. Overnight stop 43. Indifferently 45. Sturdily built 47. English course abbreviation 48. “_____’ it easy” 50. Oliver Twist, e.g.

52. *University of Virginia founder 56. African prairie 57. *Second most-popular Presidential birth state, after Virginia 58. Arm bone 59. Poem at a funeral 60. German title 61. Arnold Lobel’s “Mouse ____” 62. High school club 63. Clinton ____ Rodham 64. Hitler’s Deputy DOWN 1. Update a FitBit 2. Sound of bells 3. “At ____, soldier.”

4. Modern tie forerunner 5. Aromatic lumber 6. Beside, archaic

7. Two of the same 8. *The only President who was a bachelor 9. ____ 51, Nevada 10. Law school entry requirement, acr.

11. Bear’s room 13. Edith Piaf’s hit 14. Meat of coconut 19. Digital tome 22. Trash container, e.g.

23. *One of three Presidents to win a Grammy 24. James Dean’s famous role 25. Remember this battle 26. *First to serve coast to coast 27. Indo-Aryan, as in languages 28. Did not smell good 29. Like yellow polka dot bikini

BUILDERS FROM B1

www.redcrossblood.org/give.html/find-drive.

They also are planning a clean-up day to prepare the village green in front of Town Hall for Memorial Day services. Strait said club members plan to widen the circle as much as possible, clearing sidewalks along East Herrick Avenue of debris.

The club is also planning to host a dance — that hasn’t happened at the middle school since the COVID-19 pandemic started in March 2020 — and will volunteer to run the Duke Pride Carnival in April.

BRAINS FROM B1

pre-frontal cortex, which controls decision-making, problem-solving and the ability to consider the consequences of actions.

“They’re taking the things they’ve learned and they’re now trying to transfer it, or use it in a different way” to express their personal identities, which they’re still figuring out, said Megan Jarmusz, staff psychologist at Marion L. Steele High School.

Adolescents struggle with becoming independent while still relying on parents, she said. That can be a strange balance to strike.

During those years, expect kids to be more interested in spending time with friends than family. They’ll have mood swings, be more self-conscious and sometimes deal with low self-worth.

“Don’t be surprised if your child is a little bit withdrawn,” Jarmusz said. “These are really big things that they’re dealing with. Emotions can be heavy.”

It’s OK to give kids the space they need to work through those more complex feelings, she said.

In all likelihood, there will be clashes. Arguments are bound to happen more often, and kids will challenge their parents’ points of view.

What can parents do to help their kids through it all?

First, model positive relationships with other family members, said Jarmusz. Get to know your child’s friends and their parents.

Listen to your child’s feelings and have discussions with them. Talk openly about your own feelings, too.

“If we’re asking our kids to be vulnerable with us, and to let us in and to talk to us about what they’re dealing with, it’s OK to expect that back,” Jarmusz said.

Listening will be key through the adolescent years, said Steele counselor Mary Jane Loushin — “Most of us adults talk way too much,” she said.

Teens want to know they are being heard, so ask followup questions to show you are interested in what they have to say, said Loushin.

And don’t give advice unless they ask for it.

Be sure to give praise and affection. Loushin said parents tend to gush over their children in elementary school, but that positive reinforcement falls away as kids grow older.

Do little things together to make your teen feel valued, she said. Make an effort to share meals, which can be difficult because modern life is so busy.

When teens do mess up — and they will — count to 10 before responding as a way to maintain self-control, Loushin said. Don’t take your child’s moods or comments personally.

Ken Fritz, who teaches health and coaches the Comets football team, said his game plan is to create a safe space before starting any lesson.

He takes the first 10 minutes of each class to talk about a topic that has nothing to do with education — a favorite is what everyone had for dinner the night before.

That’s decompression time for everyone, said Fritz. It gets kids relaxed and receptive.

“Allow these kids to know you care before you try to lecture them or try to give them any kind of conversation about anything else,” he said.

32. June 6, 1944 33. Salt in cocina 36. *a.k.a. Silent Cal 38. Loosen ropes 40. Deli acronym 41. ____ ____ help 44. Hawaii’s number 46. Mob offensive 48. High-pitched laugh sound, in print 49. Like Bananas Foster 50. “All’s well that ends ____” 51. Away from wind 52. *Second most common Presidential first name, after James 53. Type of gin 54. Cross to bear 55. Midday slumbers 56. Chill, with ‘out’

SOLUTION CAN BE FOUND ON PAGE A2

SOLUTION CAN BE FOUND ON PAGE A2

Thursday, Feb. 17, 2022

SPORTS

Lorain County Community Guide

Page B3

Send sports news to news@lcnewspapers.com. Deadline for all submissions is 10 a.m. each Tuesday. Printed as space is available.

For the trophy room

Photos by Erik Andrews | Oberlin News-Tribune

Following an 80-70 victory over Clearview on Friday to earn at least a share of the Lorain County League title, Phoenix boys basketball coach Kurt Russell joins in the net-cutting festivities on Oberlin’s home court.

Phoenix claim the LC League title ERIK ANDREWS CORRESPONDENT

Following a brief stumble at Keystone the prior week, Oberlin returned sufficiently to form on Senior Night, besting rival Clearview 80-70 to claim the Lorain County League title for the second time in three years.

The win gave the Phoenix a share of the championship title, and contender Columbia’s loss to Keystone sealed the deal.

The evening began with Oberlin celebrating its senior class. Marius Harrell, Ty Locklear, Andre Yarber, Dayvion Witherspoon and Korey Russell were recognized at center court with parents and family members.

Following a sluggish first quarter, Oberlin recovered to post a 44-32 lead going into the halftime break.

All five seniors had already entered the scoring column, paced by Locklear (14 of his 18 for the game) Oberlin senior Marius Harrell cuts through traffic in the lane for and Witherspoon (7 of his 10 on the two of his 13 points against Clearview. evening).

Unable to pull away, the Phoenix Raiders had entered the evening tied ing for this point in the season, and held the Clippers in check, maintain- with Oberlin, but with the Columbia the reward is here... and hopefully ing a low double-digit lead through loss, the Phoenix victory assured beyond," coach Kurt Russell said the second half. them of — at minimum — a share of as players and fans whooped and Junior Isaac Thompson provided the LCL title. shouted around the gym. big numbers down low as his hot Oberlin Athletic Director John The hardest work is yet to come, he hand contributed 17 second half Carter was at the ready with ladder said — tomorrow, the Phoenix (14-6, points en route to his team-high 21, and scissors to celebrate with a net12-1 in the LCL) travel to Columbia, to go with 15 big rebounds for his cutting ceremony. seeking to claim the LCL title outseventh double-double on the season.

"It's quite gratifying seeing our right as they face the Raiders.

As the game wound down, word young men celebrate (unexpectedly) That will be followed next week as circulated that over in Lagrange, this title on our home floor. There the OHSAA Division 3 tournament Keystone had upset Columbia. The has been a lot of hard work prepartrail begins in earnest.

CARDS WIN ON FUNDAMENTALS

Photos by Russ Gifford | Wellington Enterprise

Jayden Roberts put up a game-high 23 points, but the Dukes still fell to Brookside in a 72-63 affair Friday. The Cardinals moved the balls around, with Zion Young and Jaycob Kolleda picking up 16 points apiece, Nolan Waechter netting 12 and Kenny Grobolsek adding 10.

The Dukes had Roberts at the fore, Jacob Knapp with 13 and Jacob Weegman with 12 — and almost no long game, while Brookside hit time and again from beyond the arc. Wellington also gave up 15 points from the free throw line. ABOVE: Wellington's Luke Vannucci brings the ball up on offense.

Comets wrap indoor track and field season in style In the final regular indoor track and field conference meet of the season, Amherst’s girls placed fourth overall and the boys placed eighth on Friday night.

For the girls: • Ella Baker placed first in the 60-meter race with a time of 8.09 seconds and first in the 400-meter race with a time of 60.93 seconds.

• The 4x200 team of Jazzara Phillips, Megan Ciura, Alanna Woodworth and Ella Baker won first place with a finishing time of 1:50.32.

• The 4x400 team of Megan Ciura, Catherine Turner, Alanna Woodworth and Ella Baker placed second in 4:20.79.

• Marisa Del Valle placed second in the 3,200-meter race with a 12:14.01 finish.

• Catherine Turner was fourth in the 1,600 meters at 5:39.34.

• The 4x800 relay team of Aurora Wilson, Hailey Counts, Natalie Raesler and Nadine Darkow placed fourth in 11:45.21.

• Katherine Low was fourth in the 3,200 meters with a time of 12:28.83.

For the boys: The 4x400 relay team of Sean McQuate, Kayden Tackett, Seyveon Plaza and Ryan Szczepanik took first place with a time of 3:37.88.

• Sean McQuate placed third in the 400 meters with a time of 52.71 seconds.

• Ty Perez placed fourth in the 3,200 meters at 10:08.00.

• Kayden Tackett placed fifth in the long jump with a distance of 18 feet 6 inches.

85 SOUTH MAIN STREET OBERLIN OHIO 44074 FEBRUARY 17, 2022 BOARD AND COMMISSION MEETING DATES ALL MEETINGS WILL TAKE PLACE AT 85 SOUTH MAIN STREET UNLESS OTHERWISE NOTED FEBRUARY 21, 2022 ������OFFICES CLOSED IN OBSERVANCE OF PRESIDENT’S DAY FEBRUARY 22, 2022 ������OPEN SPACE COMMISSION - 5:00 P�M FEBRUARY 22, 2022 ������REGULAR CITY COUNCIL MEETING - 7:00 P�M - COUNCIL CHAMBERS

Oberlin senior Dayvion Witherspoon drives baseline against Clearview in first quarter action. He finished with 10 points on the night.

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

Lorain County Community Guide

COMETS BRIEFS

Thursday, Feb. 17, 2022

37-POINT NIGHT FOR GOTSIS

Girls Bowling Amherst won its second straight Southwestern Conference title on Sunday, amassing 4,009 points to far outpace second-place North Ridgeville and third-place Avon Lake.

Three Comets bowlers broke the 600-pin mark: Makayla Velasequez rolled a 664 series on games of 246, 195 and 223. Allison Taylor rolled a 662 series on games of 258, 212 and 192. And Hannah Aschenbach rolled a 632 series on games of 246, 202 and 184.

Other Comets scorers were Melissa Nunez, 499 (146, 181, 172); and Sabrina Stawicki, 498 (161, 189, 148).

Swimming In sectional action Saturday, 14 Comets swimmers qualified for 17 events at the OHSAA district meet at Bowling Green on Feb. 19: • Sierra Dorobek will compete in the 50 and 100 free.

• Grace Grove will compete in the 200 and 500 free races.

• A.J. Sliman will compete in the 100 backstroke and 200 intermediate medley.

• Clair Petrillo will compete in the 100 fly.

• Sierra Dorobek, Grace Grove, Jaidyn McKee and A.J. Sliman will compete in the 200 free relay.

• Sierra Dorobek, Grace Grove, Kenzie Molnar and A.J. Sliman will compete in the 400 free relay.

• Kenzie Molnar, Claire Petrillo, Mary Soboslay and Estella Woodworth will compete in the 200 medley relay.

• Ethan Belak will compete in the 1 meter dive and 50 free.

• Michael Petrillo will compete in the 200 and 500 free races.

• Ethan Belak, Ethan Homolya, Jaden Orlandi and Michael Petrillo will compete in the 200 free relay.

• Ethan Belak, Jaden Orlandi, Michael Petrillo and Chris Turner will compete in the 400 free relay.

• Cole Mayer, Mason Kinser, Chris Turner and Ethan Homolya will compete in the 200 medley relay.

Ice Hockey • Nick Ciura’s double overtime goal gave Amherst a 4-3 win over Rocky River. The Comets were locked in a tie after Joey Kramer scored all three regulation goals.

Goalie River Ambroz recorded 45 saves.

• The tables were turned when Hudson scored an overtime goal for a 4-3 win. Gavyn Cumberledge scored first for the Comets, and Nick Ciura and Thomas hall took their turns adding to the tally. Goalie River Ambroz had 37 saves.

Girls Basketball • Kristen Kelley never gave up in last week’s 63-40 loss to Olmsted Falls, amassing 18 points for the Comets. Kayla Ferancy had 12.

• Kristen Kelley led Amherst to a 46-16 blowout over Valley Forge last week, scoring 21 points.

Kristin Bauer | Amherst News-Times

Amherst's George Gotsis passes the ball while guarded

by Elyria's Isaiah Johnson on Friday night. A last-second Nick Hamrlik bucket beat the buzzer for a 78-77 Comets win over the Pioneers in the Southwestern Conference battle. Gotsis ended the night with an unheard-of 37 points, backed by George Fayer with 12 and Jordan Koury with 11.

Gotsis’ game-winning shot gave him 8 on the night. Elyria was led by Jayden Crutcher with 23; Omar Palos had 18 and Ryan Walsh had 17.

RIGHT: Elyria High School's Steven Furcron recovers the ball from Amherst's Nick Hamrlik on Friday night.

WHOPPER OF A WIN Russ Gifford | Wellington Enterprise

When the Dukes broke free, they really broke free.

After trailing 6-7 in a mediocre first quarter, Wellington kicked into high gear to lead 29-9 at the half, holding Black River in check for a 62-38 final score. Jayden Roberts had 18 points and Jacob Weegmann had 14 in the win, while the Pirates were led by Eric Groesser with 7.

LEFT: Wellington's Luke Vannucci passes out of pressure from Black River's John Kray.

‘CATS GET IT

Russ Gifford | Amherst News-Times

Mirror images of each other for three straight quarters, the Falcons and Wildcats fought to 37-all going into the final frame last Thursday.

That’s when Keystone’s defense locked down and a tired Firelands five fell behind 14-4, giving the ‘Cats a 51-41 edge. Keystone’s Delaney Peters led all scorers with 21 and teammate Brooklyn Barber kicked in 16 more. For the Falcons, Bella Simmons and Abbey Schmitz each netted 11 points. ABOVE: Firelands’ Bella Simmons and Keystone's Helayna Houston fight for possession.

IN THE CAVS’ HOUSE

David Richard | News-Times

Gary Uhler of Firelands tries to keep control of the ball while defended by Vermilion’s Cole Groene and Ben Rini at Rocket Mortgage Field House. The Sailors won 55-37 in the non-conference showing at the Cleveland NBA venue.

Thursday, Feb. 17, 2022

Lorain County Community Guide

Page B5

LORAIN COUNTY LEAGUE WRESTLING TOURNAMENT

Photos by Russ Gifford | Wellington Enterprise

Two Dukes wrestlers were crowned as winners in their respective weight classes Saturday at the Lorain County League wrestling tournament at Black River. Jeremiah McKee won in the 132-pound division and Derrick Andolsek won at 165 pounds. A third Wellington star, Devan Diedrick, placed second in the heavyweight class. Cayden Conrad placed third at 157 pounds, Sam Smith was third at 138 pounds and Austin Sutherland finished fourth at 150 pounds. Together, the Dukes finished fifth overall. Though Firelands was favored, Keystone won the conference title. ABOVE LEFT: Firelands’ Mason Stanley controls Clearview’s Greg O’Hern. Stanley took third place in the 165lb weight class. ABOVE RIGHT: Black River’s Jonathan McKean tries to get position on Keystone’s Diego Moralez. McKean finished second in the 150lb weight class. BELOW LEFT: Wellington’s Cayden Conrad wrestles Keystone’s Jonathan Gould. Conrad won the match to place third in the 157lb class. BELOW RIGHT: Wellington’s Sam Smith battles Brookside’s Justin Fraam. Smith finished third in the 138lb weight class.

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Page B6

Thursday, Feb. 17, 2022

Lorain County Community Guide

© 2022 by Vicki Whiting, Editor Jeff Schinkel, Graphics Vol. 38, No. 11

Cutting Down on Drag

he people who compete in the Winter Olympics are more than great athletes.

They are also masters of science. Gold Medal athletes know about the science of a fall line, drag and friction.

Find the definition of each of these words on the page. Write the definition in the Gold Medal Dictionary.

While we don’t always feel air, we are always moving against it. The faster we move, the more we can feel the air rushing past us.

Air is actually slowing down our motion. This is called drag.

Place a pencil on START. Close your eyes. Trace the curving path down the slalom run. Score 1 point for each slalom flag cleared. Now have a friend try. Who scored highest?

Standards Link: Vocabulary Development: Use a dictionary or context clues to find the meaning of words.

Fall Line

Downhill skiers crouch with their chests to their knees.

They try to be very small, so that only a little of their body is in contact with the air.

This lessens the drag.

Skiers who have the least amount of drag will ski faster.

Competitors in downhill skiing, the luge and bobsled races look for the fall line. The fall line is the quickest way down a hill. When a sled moves away from the fall line, the athlete must steer to correct the path, losing energy and speed.

Add up the numbers following each bobsled track. The animal athlete with the lowest number has found the fall line and wins the gold!

Standards Link: Physical Science: When forces on an object are unbalanced, the object will change its velocity (i.e., it will speed up, slow down or change direction).

Drag Racers

Look at the three skiers.

They are all skiing down the fall line.

The one with the least drag will win.

Circle the skier you think will win.

To find out each skier’s time, add up the numbers above each skier. The skier with the fastest time wins the gold!

Standards Link: Number Sense: Calculate sums to 30.

What is Friction?

Friction is the rubbing of one object or surface against another.

Place your two palms together with your palms only lightly touching each other. Slide your palms back and forth against each other. There is only a little friction and your hands move easily.

Push your palms tightly together and try to move them back and forth. It will be harder to move your palms because there is a lot of friction and that slows the motion.

The athlete who did the best job waxing their board will win this race.

(The lowest number is the fastest time.)

Now put soap and water on your hands. This will reduce the friction and your hands should move together faster. Athletes wax skis, boards and runners to lower friction and help them go faster.

Standards Link: Life Science: Reading Comprehension: Follow simple written directions.

Look through the newspaper to find pictures and words that represent the above words.

Make a Spirit of the Olympics poster with your findings.

SCIENCE MEDAL ATHLETES OLYMPICS BOBSLED SKIER SPIRIT FRICTION DRAG FALL LINE GOLD LUGE KNEES RACERS

G O F O D T L B U C

G K T A I G O L D O A A L R L B L E C S

R E I K S L O N C M

This week’s word:

LUGE

S R E C A R E L P E

E D S E E N K D T G

The noun luge means a racing sled where riders lie on their backs with feet pointing forward.

N O I T C I R F A U

There are luge competitions in the Winter Olympics.

S E T E L H T A I L

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

D P O L Y M P I C S

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

National Hero

Science Behind the Scenes

The communities that host the Olympic games must respect the environment. Look through the newspaper for ways people protect the environment. Can you find any ideas for protecting the environment during the games?

ANSWER: Good ice sight.

Standards Link: Earth Science: Know ways in which humans can change ecosystems.

Complete the grid by using all the letters in the word SKIER in each vertical and horizontal row. Each letter should only be used once in each row. Some spaces have been filled in for you.

Standards Link: Visual Arts: Understand and apply media techniques and processes.

Standards Link: Science: Identify forces that can act on an object, including friction.

Each of these animal athletes won an event on this page. Draw a line from each gold medal to its winner.

Standards Link: Reading Comprehension: Follow simple written directions.

Who is your favorite national hero? What is it about this person that you admire most?

What character traits does this person have?