Courier, Jan. 5, 2012

CHRC Valentine Celebration - See page 2A

King Leonidas guards CHS. - See page 7A

Rebecca Holdson is Student of the Month - See page 7A Periodical’s Postage Paid

THE COURIER Conneaut own Ne wspaper Conneaut’’s Home T Town Newspaper

THURSDAY, JANUARY 5, 2012

State Reneges; OHP Out At LaECI

VOL. 21 NO. 1

See LaECI page 3A

CENTS

GAZETTE NEWSPAPERS, INC.

Thar She Blows!

Tom Kozesky Is Council’s President Pro Tem

by MARTHA SOROHAN Gazette Newspapers

by MARTHA SOROHAN Gazette Newspapers CONNEAUT - Just as city administrators feared, the Ohio Highway Patrol no longer has jurisdiction over felony investigations at Lake Erie Correctional Institution (LaECI) in Conneaut.

Effective with the State of Ohio’s Dec. 31 sale of the prison to the Corrections Corporation of America, the responsibility for felony investigations occurring inside prison walls falls on the Conneaut Police Department or the Ashtabula County Sheriff ’s Department.

Conneaut Law Director David Schroeder was informed on Dec. 27 via phone call from a State of Ohio Attorney General’s representative.

“The sheriff is not willing

75

PHOTO BY MARTHA SOROHAN

Snows that arrived in Conneaut early this week were almost welcomed by Mill Street good Samaritan Corky Erdman, who, when snow falls, bundles up in cold weather gear, including yellow goggles, and fires up his snowblower to clean the walks and driveways for six or seven neighbors, some of them elderly. “If I’m going to do my own, I might as well do theirs, too,” said Erdman, who counts on about an hour to clean the walks and driveways. “I don’t mind it.” Conneaut missed the brunt of a two-day New Year’s snowstorm that left a half-foot of snow in the southern parts of Ashtabula County. Before the week is out, temperatures are predicted to be back into the 40s.

CONNEAUT Conneaut’s brand new 2012-2013 City Council unanimously accepted Council President Tom Udell’s recommendation that Ward 4 Councilman Tom Kozesky be named Council President Pro Tem, and elected him to that position at Council’s 2012 Organizational Meeting 6 p.m.

Tuesday evening in Council chambers.

Udell explained that upon Robert Naylor’s resignation from Council two years ago, he had appointed Ward 1 Councilman Dave Campbell as President Pro Tem. With Campbell’s loss at the polls in November, the position came open again.

“I asked Tom if he were interested, and he was receptive,” said Udell, who

said he felt fortunate that good health has kept him from missing a single City Council meeting since elected president two years ago.

Once Council voted in favor of Kozesky, Udell then joked, “Now, here’s my resignation.”

The biggest discussion of the meeting was whether to do away with regular work sessions, held the first and third Mondays of each month. Some have been argued they be replaced by committee meetings.

Udell also had a list of new committee assignments.

Heading up Public Works will be former Public Works Director John Roach, while Phil Garcia will take Parks & Recreation. Neil LaRusch will continue with Finance & Ordinance, Kozesky will

See PRO TEM page 3A

Staying Alive:

Teachers Learn Lock-Down Alternative

by MARTHA SOROHAN Gazette Newspapers CONNEAUT - Teachers from Lakeshore Primary School huddled on the floor against the cafeteria wall Tuesday morning at Conneaut High School to demonstrate how they had been taught to respond if an armed gunman were to come into the school building.

Though they could only describe how their students would be on the floor with them, how the classroom door would be locked and the shades drawn, it took Kent State University law enforcement officer Lt. Joseph Hendry only a few seconds to show the 150-member audience the futility of their actions if they wanted to stay alive.

Hendry simply rushed over and raised his arm as if holding a pistol.

Then, explaining that mass murderers are interested in high body counts, he showed how a gunman can kill more people more quickly if they are huddled together than if they are spread out singly around the room.

But even better advice he had for the teachers was to get out.

“If you’re hiding, the gunman knows you’re in there,” he said. “Why are you sitting there waiting for him?”

Turning to the audience, he asked, “Do these people look like they’re ready to do anything?”

For nearly two hours, speaking without a microphone, Hendry held his audience of educators, administrators, city officials, law enforcement and school board members, and a few concerned citizens, in the palm of his hand by encouraging them to use common sense, not fear, in dealing with incidents that have become far too common in the last 20 years: senseless random killings by madmen intent on killing large num-

bers of innocent victims before turning the guns on themselves.

Advocating a response method known as “ALICE,” an acronym for “alert,

lockdown, inform, counter and escape,” Hendry said he was encouraged to teach the program begun by Greg Crane and Allen Hill, who were upset about the futile

lock-down procedure that ended up costing lives during the student attacks at Columbine High School.

Hendry pointed out that though a door to escape was just 20 feet from many students, they had been told by trained teachers to stay inCity Council President Tom Udell (right) recommended side.

Ward 4 Councilman Tom Kozesky (left) as Council’s Yet he noted that any law President Pro Tem for 2012-2013. Council unanimously enforcement officer will adelected him to that position at Tuesday evening’s 2012 See ALICE page 4A organizational meeting of City Council.

Health Department Cuts Friday Afternoon Hours

PHOTOS BY MARTHA SOROHAN

During a program on the “ALICE” response to armed intruders in schools, former Marine Corps sergeant Joseph Hendry demonstrates how a chair may be used as a weapon against an armed introducer

PHOTO BY MARTHA SOROHAN

Matt Stouffer of Kingsville received his annual TB test Tuesday afternoon at the Conneaut Health Department by Conneaut’s co Director of Nursing Jodi Slayton, R.N.

by MARTHA SOROHAN Gazette Newspapers CONNEAUT - Balancing the city’s 2012 budget came, in part, on the back of the Conneaut Health Department.

Starting Jan. 6, the Health Department, at 327 Mill St., will be open just half-days on Fridays, from 8 a.m. to noon.

Other weekday hours, from Monday through Lt. Joseph Hendry points to a door at Conneaut High Thursday, will be unchanged School to emphasize that when confronted by an in- at 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.

The Friday afternoon truder, escape is the best option.

closing was approved by the board as a way of cutting Health Department costs at the request of Conneaut City Council.

Health Commissioner Sally Kennedy said that closing on Friday afternoon was logical, since the Conneaut Human Resources Center building in which the Health Department is housed also closes on Friday afternoons.

“It was logical to do that and easier rather than having to explain to why we weren’t open,” she said.

Obtaining copies of birth

and death certificates, and TB testing will be affected the most by the closing, Kennedy said.

Copies of Ohio birth and death certificates cannot be obtained when the Health Department is closed.

Because TB tests are read 48 hours after they are administered, persons who are tested on Wednesday afternoons will have to wait until the following Monday for results to be read.

Otherwise, services

See HEALTH page 8A

2A • GAZETTE NEWSPAPERS

THURSDAY, JANUARY 5, 2012

“Live, Laugh, Love” Valentine Celebration

TOWN TALK An All-You-Can-Eat Pasta Dinner is being sponsored 4:30 to 7:30 p.m.

Jan. 14 at the Monroe United Methodist Church, 4302 Center Road, to benefit five girls from Troop 80671 who will be receiving Gold Awards in the spring.

Adults $6, Seniors (60+) $5, Children 3 & under, free.

Hosts are the Gold Award recipients’ parents. This is also the time of year to order Girl Scout cookies.

Cookie information will be available at the dinner.

Boxes are $3.50.

If you would like to help the Animal Protective League, eat at Bob Evans on Jan. 15, and 15 percent of your bill will be donated to the APL. Pick up a coupon from the APL, or the website since a coupon must be handed to the server

upon placing your order.

At Monroe Township Trustees’ organizational meeting on Jan. 3, Chuck Riley was elected township trustee chair and John Griggs vice chair. Taking his seat as trustee for the first time was Ed Kirch, elected in November. The trustees’ next meeting is 7:30 p.m. Jan. 10 at the Township Garage, 5578 S. Monroe Center Road.

Latva is the new part-time receptionist/administrative assistant/Jill of all trades, replacing Jennifer Simpson, who is continuing graduate studies in Youngstown.

Lisa Howe will be accompanying paralysis victim Tim Taylor to the Dominican Republic in a few weeks for his second stem cell transplant to help him continue to regain feeling in his arms and legs. Thanks to community generosity, funds were Artwork by the Har- raised for Taylor’s second bor Artists will be dis- trip — he had his first transplayed this month at the plant a year ago. A teen Conneaut Community Cen- dance hosted by the Ameriter for the Arts, 1025 Buf- can Legion softball team sevfalo Street. An opening re- eral weeks ago helped put ception will take place 2 to Taylor over the top and provided extra funds so he could 4 p.m. Jan. 7. recuperate in the hospital a Speaking of the day or two longer than he did Conneaut Community Cen- in 2011. The pair will be flyter for the Arts, Amanda ing from Cleveland.

Though the city’s Highway Adoption Program has fallen by the wayside, it would appear, City Council Clerk Pam Harper said she still has forms for groups or individuals who would like to adopt a highway, or a portion of a local highway.

City Council President Tom Udell also noted at Council’s 2012 Organizational Meeting on Tuesday evening that board and committee chairs should notify City Manager’s Administrative Assistant Pat Beckwith of changes in board membership, such as resignations and new members so that lists at City Hall are up-to-date. Chairs should also contact Beckwith to make sure roster information is up to date.

Cold, Empty at Lakefront Lagoon PHOTO BY MARTHA SOROHAN

Conneaut Human Resources Center Director Debbie Newcomb holds up a flyer and pink tickets for the CHRC’s Valentine’s Day celebration benefit, “Live, Laugh, Love,” 8:30 p.m. to 1 a.m. Saturday, Feb. 11. The evening features Stand-Up Comedy, provided by out-of-area entertainers, at 8:30 p.m., followed by DJ Anthony Evans’ “Virtual DJ Show” 10 p.m. to 1 a.m. Hot food (ox roast sandwiches) will be available at the BYOB event, along with ice and soft drinks. A 50/50 drawing and Chinese Auction will be part of the fun. Doors open 7:30 p.m. Tickets, $10, are available at the CHRC (593-5273), Conneaut Area Chamber of Commerce, 235 Main St., and the Burning Stone Cafe, 218 Washington Street.

Senior Calendar

GSLC Community S.E.N.I.O.R.S People ages 50 and up are welcome the first and third Thursdays of the month at Good Shepherd Lutheran Church, 876 Grove Street.

Health checks 9:45 a.m., 10 a.m. devotion, exercise and lunch the first and third Thursdays The next gathering is Jan. 5.

PHOTO BY ALLAN MONONEN

With F, G and H docks removed by the Port Authority, the end of the Lagoon area at the Public Dock looks cold and lonely as the new year begins. Replacements for the three docks will go in well before the official boating season begins in May. The Conneaut Port Authority will meet in special work session 9 a.m. Saturday at Basil’s Cafe on Park Avenue.

D-Day Segment to Air on Discovery Channel Jan. 11

by MARTHA SOROHAN Gazette Newspapers CONNEAUT The long-awaited segment of the August, 2011, D-Day Event taped by a Discovery Channel crew will be aired next week.

Air time, announced on Tuesday, is 10 p.m.

Wednesday, Jan. 11.

Details have not been released, but early reports were that the footage would be part of a pilot for a show whose title has nothing to do with what Conneaut residents understand as a “D-Day Event.”

One member of the three-man film crew, Hugh Daley, originally from Britain, had participated in D-

Day as an Allied U.S. Ranger in 2004, and pitched the filming concept to Discovery. Thanks in part to the event’s web site, the concept was approved.

He said last summer the segment would be aired as part of a pilot for a series about young military paraphernalia collectors looking for military items.

The camera will follow them and watch their adventures at military re-enactments, and what they find and plan to do once they purchase the items.

They said that the entire episode will be about Conneaut’s D-Day Event, but the segments of the sale, where the men are finding and buying items, will be staged. They will have located materials that people want to purchase, and the sale will take place at the D-Day Event.

Daley — said to have ‘charmed’ D-Day Ohio, Inc., chair Betsy Bashore

about coming last summer to film at the event — said the crew’s goal was to present the D-Day Event in the best light possible.

“We are here to show hobbyists honoring the vets and demonstrating an affinity for history,” Daley said.

Last summer, the trio said they had expected the half-hour segment to be aired around Thanksgiving.

“We hope it’s a big hit,” Daley said last summer.

“We are going to give it extra energy to make it a big event.”

Jan. 5 - “Safety FIRST,” featuring EMS demonstrations to start new year in safety.

Jan. 19 - “It’s Sleepy Time,” wear your PJs day, Expert on eye health and sleep apnea.

CHRC Seniors Together Weekdays 11 a.m. at 327 Mill Street. Free. Special programs Tuesdays and Thursdays.

Daily walking 7:30 a.m.

Jan. 5 - Special Bingo with Denise from Lake Pointe Rehabilitation Jan. 10 - Craig from Ashtabula Wound Center Jan. 12 - Corn Hole Jan. 16 - CENTER CLOSED (No birthday dinner at Perkins this month.)

Winter Sock Hop is March 9, 10

PHOTO BY MARTHA SOROHAN

Back for the sixth year is the Winter Sock Hop, coming to the Conneaut Human Resources Center, 327 Mill St., from 6:30 to 10:30 p.m. March 9 and 10. Entertainment on March 9 will be “Blast from the Past,” featuring vocalists Steve Poros, Phil Sneary, Keigh Bartlett, Colleen Serni and Buddy Scoville. Saturday evening will belong to the Kingpins. Committee chairs Darlyene Brisley (left) and Lisa Howe hold up “records” being made up for BYOB event sponsors ranging in levels from $50 to $200. Both nights, baked goods, hot food, soft drinks will be available. Bristly holds the soon-to-be t-shirt logo.

PHOTO BY MARTHA SOROHAN

The D-Day Event will make national television at 10 p.m. Jan. 11, when the Discovery Channel uses in a 30-minute program footage shot in Conneaut last August as part of a show about young men who travel the re-enactment circuit searching for military paraphernalia. This picture was taken of a re-enactor last August at Township Park.

A 50/50 drawing, Chinese auction and $50 Lottery ticket shirt will be available.

Contests include the favorite bubble-gum blowing, hula hoop, best-dressed 50s, and more. Tickets are $10 for each night or $18 for both nights if purchased together. The event is geared for all ages, and does sell out. Call Brisley for tickets at 599-8561.

THURSDAY, JANUARY 5, 2012

GAZETTE NEWSPAPERS • 3A

Nancy Guthrie is PRO TEM Senior of the Month

PHOTO BY MARTHA SOROHAN

Nancy Guthrie was honored as Conneaut’s Senior Citizen of the Month at Council’s Dec. 27 meeting.

Nominated by Pat Laughlin, Guthrie is a native of Milton, Pa., who graduated from Indiana University of Pennsylvania and taught elementary music from 1985 to 2005 with the Conneaut Area City Schools. A 20-year piano teacher at the Conneaut Community Center for the Arts and a member of a piano quartet, Guthrie is past choir director and current director of hand bell choirs at Good Shepherd Lutheran Church.

Good Shepherd’s Pastoral Assistant since 2009, Guthrie leads the church’s Community Seniors program, locally coordinates Northeast Ohio Lutheran Marriage Encounter, and was instrumental in the church’s bringing the Kelly Miller Circus to town for three years and the Teen Serve program in 2010.

A harpist, driver for Faith in Action, and a member of Conneaut Area Ministerial Association, Guthrie in her spare time enjoys slow-pitch softball, her scooter and the outdoors.

head Public Safety, Rich McBride will head Public Utilities, and Doug Hedrick will be charged with the Economic Development Committee.

Udell will be in charge of the City Revitalization & Clean-Up Committee, into which the road Adoption Program will be absorbed.

Kozesky will remain liaison to the Conneaut Port Authority, LaRusch liaison to the Conneaut Area City Schools Board of Education, Garcia liaison to the Board of Tourism, and McBride the Cable Advisory liaison, which he said is a logical offshoot of the Public Utilities Committee.

“You don’t have to go to all these committee meetings, but you should keep in touch,” Udell told them.

“And report on them once or twice a month. That makes the people who serve on them feel that they are there for a reason.”

Once Udell had mentioned doing away with work sessions, council found it impossible not to discuss it, even though Udell said work sessions would continue as scheduled “until otherwise noted.”

Udell said the elimination of regular work sessions would “save” a Mon-

From page 1A day night, and leave it open for a “relaxed” committee meeting that is not televised.

Law Director Dave Schroeder noted that Rules of Council states that all matters of Council “shall” be referred to Standing Committee unless otherwise ordered.

“We should abolish this rule, change this rule, or adopt and implement it,” he explained.

But he added that while communities handle the “work session” differently, there is no master rule.

“It’s what works best,” he said, and At-Large Councilman Neil LaRusch said he feels that Council committees are the best solution to what is going on in the city.

Kozesky recalled that years ago, committees met regularly but held few work sessions. He said that legislation always went to committees, then to council, and that Finance & Ordinance Committee met to discuss the majority of legislation coming before Council.

But At-Large Councilman John Roach said short meetings are a result of everyone’s being informed ahead of time.

“There is less bickering and arguing,” he said, which

prompted Udell to remind Councilmen that if they change their minds about an issue following a committee meeting in which they indicated how they would vote, they should alert their fellow councilmen prior to Council’s vote.

“There is nothing wrong with changing your mind,” he said. “but don’t let it catch us off guard.”

He also asked councilmen to let him know if they plan to miss a meeting, since lack of a quorum may stall legislation.

Council also discussed public speaking at Council meetings. LaRusch has pushed for more control over public comments after one local resident spoke out against his business in October.

“We seem to have people speak for three to four months before an election or to degrade someone. There is no wealth of policy addressed. I want Council to be seen as a professional entity,” he said.

LaRusch went so far as to ask if public comment could be edited out of the aired council proceedings, since derogatory statements such as those made against his business were then aired 21 times the following

week. Schroeder warned that curtailing the right of free speech, and the right to air proceedings, is difficult, and that people have a right to comment on the city.

“It’s hard to make a judgement call,” he said.

“On the other hand, it can’t be a personal attack. But if we televise a meeting, we televise a meeting.”

LaRusch said that not televising the public portion of the meeting does not violate the Sunshine Law. “When it downgrades your livelihood, what can City Council do?” he asked.

Udell suggested the matter go to a committee. He said Council has the power to eliminate all cable TV coverage by passing an ordinance.

“But sometimes if there’s been a tiny technical glitch in the broadcast, no one’s fault, people will call and ask what’s missing. It’s a tough situation,” he said.

Schroeder promised to look into the legality of excising a “derogatory” portion of a public meeting.

The meeting ended shortly before 7 p.m. Udell had announced at the meeting’s outset that the City Charter mandates an organizational meeting of City Council by the third day of the month every other year.

She called her nomination “touching” and “a humbling experience.” When Conneaut City Council President Tom Udell noted that she enjoys a whirlwind of activities, Guthrie said the point in life is to have fun. She and her husband, Duffy, have three children and four grandchildren. They have attended Good Shepherd Lutheran Church since 1980.

Civic Meetings Conneaut Port Authority work session, 9 a.m. Jan. 7 at Basil’s Cafe, Park Avenue Conneaut City Council, 7 p.m. Jan. 9 Conneaut Planning Commission, 7 p.m. Jan. 10 Board of Health, 8:30 a.m. Jan. 11 at 327 Mill Street Conneaut Area City Schools Board of Education, 5:45 p.m. budgetary meeting, 6 p.m. work session 7 p.m. meeting Jan. 12 at Southeast Building, 400 Mill Street PHOTO BY MARTHA SOROHAN Zoning Board of Appeals, 7 p.m. Jan. 12 Conneaut Public Library Board of Trustees, 5 p.m. At-large Councilman Neil LaRusch (left) chats with new Ward 3 Councilman Rich McBride at Tuesday’s 2012 City Council organizational meeting. At left facing the camera is Ward 2 Councilman Phil Garcia.

Jan. 23 at 304 Buffalo Street

LaECI

Monroe Township Trustees, 7:30 p.m. Jan. 10 at 5578 S. Monroe Center Road Kingsville Township Trustees, 7 p.m. Jan. 11 at Fire to accept that responsibility, Hall, 3130 Main Street so it has defaulted to the City of Conneaut,” Schroeder announced during his Law Director’s report at Tuesday evening’s City USPS 012-979 Council work session. “Now we are obligated.”

Office located at: Schroeder gave his report after the City Council Presi46 West Jefferson St., Jefferson, Ohio 44047 dent Tom Udell opened the Address editorial correspondence to: meeting at 7 p.m. and P.O. Box 166, Jefferson, Ohio 44047 promptly announced the courier@gazettenews.com group would move into executive session for the pur(440) 593-6030 pose of litigation.

Forty minutes later, the Fax: (440) 576-2778 legislators returned, and Schroeder’s news was delivPublisher ................................... John Lampson ered in short order, along President ............................ Jeffrey J. Lampson with a statement that the city will take “any and all General Manager .................... William Creed steps to protect the city fibcreed@gazettenews.com nancially.”

Senior Editor ......................... Stefanie Wessell The dreaded news, and implications of a pending swessell@gazettenews.com lawsuit, came as no surprise.

Editor ...................................... Martha Sorohan But the fight to return courier@gazettenews.com OHP to its original capacity is far from over, according to SUBSCRIPTION RATES Law Director David Schroeder.

Local Delivery (1 year) .................................. $30.00 Ever since the state’s Seniors - Local Delivery (1 year) .................. $25.50 Sept. 1 announcement that Out-of-Area (1 year) ..................................... $46.00 the 1,500-bed medium secuSeniors - Out-of-Area (1 year) ...................... $39.10 rity prison would be sold to Corrections Corporation of Annual subscription rates non-refundable America on Dec. 31, city administrators were aware The Courier (USPS 012-979) is published weekly by that the OHP would no The Gazette Newspapers, Inc. at 46 West Jefferson St., longer have jurisdiction over felony investigations inside Jefferson, OH 44047. Periodical’s postage is paid at Jeffthe prison once the sale went erson, OH 44047. POSTMASTER: Send address changes through. to The Courier, P.O. Box 166, Jefferson, OH That meant the respon44047. sibility would fall on the Printed on Recycled Paper Conneaut Police Department, which did not have LETTERS POLICY $150,000 in its 2012 budget We encourage letters to the editor on topics of interest to our to pay to hire two additional general readership. Although letters should be of sufficient officers needed to replace length to express your idea, please limit them to 400 words Ohio Highway Patrol troopor less. Letters should include your name, address, telephone ers at the prison. number and hand written signature. We reserve the right to Though left out of state edit all letters for style, clarity and libelous content. conversations regarding the prison sale, the city has not Questions? Call Us at (440) 593-6030 stood idly by.

Schroeder took council Classifieds ......... Becke Schindler x104 almost step-by-step through the city’s relationship with Subscriptions .... Cassie Nagy x102 the state vis-a-vis the News ................... Martha Sorohan x116 prison, starting with a Dec. Sports ................. Byron Wessell x115 30, 1997, agreement in which the city donated land, Advertising ........ Tina Wilson x207 several million dollars, and

THE COURIER

From page 1A applied for grants for wetlands mitigation projects for prison property. The prison was constructed for $35 million dollars.

Most important, however, was a section of that agreement stating that the project would always be part of the Ohio Correctional System and that the state would remain the sole owner.

That sentence will likely come into play as Schroeder fights to keep the city’s head above water financially with this latest outcome.

Even if the city receives property taxes from the privately-owned prison, they would hardly offset the cost of hiring additional police officers.

Without additional officers, Schroeder believes that the entire community is at risk.

“The citizens have a right to have police protection,” he said.

Throughout the last three months, city administrators have met with powers-that-be at the state level on three occasions to discuss this issue, and came out optimistic each time.

Though State Rep. Casey Koslowski (R-99) appeared to be playing a political hand when, appearing at a special meeting of City Council’s Finance & Ordinance Committee, he told the city that it should be glad the prison was remaining in Conneaut, and that the city will gain property tax revenue, he nevertheless returned to Columbus to meet with Department of Corrections officials. A few days later, he was part of a meeting in Columbus with City Council President Tom Udell, Ward 4 Councilman Tom Kozesky and At-Large Councilman Neil LaRusch with Department of Rehabilitation & Corrections (DRC) Director Gary Mohr and DRC attorney Greg Trout, along with representatives of Sen. Capri Cafaro

(D-34).

Though councilmen found out about the meeting at the 11th hour, they came away optimistic, but LaRusch said some elements of the conversation they were not at liberty to discuss.

“The city is still looking into what’s fair and what’s right, and we’ll try to represent the citizens of this community as best we can,” LaRusch said.

Fast forward about 25 days and a large state contingent convened at a special meeting at Kent State University Ashtabula to again discuss particulars of the sale. That conversation went well, ending 30 minutes ahead of schedule, with parties again optimistic.

After that meeting, an Ohio Highway Patrol representative said the OHP had budgeted to serve Lake Erie Correctional Institution in 2012, even though Cafaro appeared to be the only one at the meeting who hammered home the point that statutorily, the OHP would no longer be in control at the prison once the sale to CCA went through.

The conversations became quiet, however, following a meeting in Columbus in early December, when several councilmen and the law director again drove to Columbus, this time to talk to Gov. John Kasich, who made the decision to privatize five state prisons to balance the state’s budget. But news from that meeting was slow in coming.

Lake Erie was the only state prison sold.

Cafaro and Kozlowski continued to maintain that they were working to resolve the felony investigation jurisdiction issue and Cafaro was the only one to suggest that Ohio’s Bureau of Criminal Investigation handle the investigations.

Both legislators had talked about a Mutual Aid agreement with the OHP, since

there was no time before Dec. 31 for the state legislature to draw up legislation mandating that the OHP retain jurisdiction after the prison was sold to a private owner. Kozlowski had said he was working to introduce such legislation.

Schroeder told Council on Tuesday night that the Attorney General’s office said that the state was reluctant to enter into an agreement with the Ohio Highway Patrol for fear of its inability to defend troopers civilly should they be sued.

Thus, the OHP would, he said, not be conducting investigations at the prison unless it was an emergency.

Schroeder said the city would do the right thing and accept its legal responsibility at the prison, but he said that legal recourses are available.

Rumors had surfaced in the past months that the city would file an injunction to block the prison sale if the situation were not resolved.

Schroeder said Tuesday that the city will keep track of the costs of the prison felony investigations, of which there are two to five each month.

He said council was “united” behind him as he continues to do the right thing.

“We didn’t ask for the sale,” he said.

At-large Councilman Neil LaRusch, instrumental in planning the meetings in Columbus, said he was surprised at the outcome, but remains optimistic that “individuals will keep their word to make it happen.”

Udell said he was also surprised at the outcome, since he had felt progress was moving well after each meeting.

“But we have no ill feelings toward CCA,” he said.

“This is the city versus the State of Ohio. We will continue on.”

4A • GAZETTE NEWSPAPERS

THURSDAY, JANUARY 5, 2012 had several arrest warrants for Hughart, they drove to Ashtabula and took custody of him and booked him into the jail.

At 4:56 p.m. Dec. 20, a vehicle reportedly struck the building at True North Shell Station.

At 6:15 p.m. Dec. 20, a break in was reported at a Mill Street residence.

Nothing was reported taken.

At 12:22 a.m. Dec. 21, a domestic situation was reported on Harbor Street.

At 4:52 a.m. Dec. 21, a domestic situation was reported on Harbor Street.

At 6:10 a.m. Dec. 21, a domestic situation was reported on West Main Road.

At 8:08 a.m. Dec. 21, a domestic situation was reported on Old Mill Road.

At 9:07 a.m. Dec. 21, a juvenile male was arrested at Conneaut High School and transported to Youth Detention Center after an altercation at the school.

He had allegedly been in a fight with another student, then punched a teacher several times while the teacher attempted to break up the fight.

At 10:29 a.m. Dec. 21, a domestic situation was reported on Dorman Road.

At 2:42 a.m. Dec. 22, a domestic situation was reported on Sandusky Street.

At 10:48 a.m. Dec. 22, a West Street resident reported a fraud.

At 11:49 a.m. Dec. 22, a non-injury traffic accident was reported in the area of Route 7 and I-90.

At noon Dec. 22, a break-in was reported at an unoccupied Poplar Street residence.

At 5:18 p.m. Dec. 22, an assault was reported on Harbor Street.

At 6:23 p.m. Dec. 22, a domestic situation was reported on Whitney Road.

At 3:13 a.m. Dec. 23, a State Street resident reported the theft of medications.

At 4:11 a.m. Dec. 23, Gary Ratliff was arrested on Harbor Street for warrants through the Ashtabula County Sheriff ’s Office. CSO. He was turned over to their custody.

At 12:10 p.m. Dec. 23, a domestic situation was reported on 15th Street.

At 12:39 p.m. Dec. 23, copper was reported stolen from a Harbor Street residence.

At 4:10 a.m. Dec. 24, a domestic situation was reported on Cleveland Court At 1:30 p.m. Dec. 24, a tire was reportedly stolen off a vehicle on Center Street.

At 10 p.m. Dec. 24, damage was reportedly done to a fence and a vehicle on Grove Street.

At 12:51 a.m. Dec. 25, a break in was reported at a Broad Street business.

At 12:43 p.m. Dec. 25, a Hayward Avenue resident reported harassment.

At 3:01 a.m. Dec. 25, a hit-skip traffic accident was reported on Lake Road.

At 9:27 a.m. Dec. 25, a domestic situation was reported on Depot Street.

At 1:08 p.m. Dec. 25, a custody dispute was reported on Grifton Avenue.

At 6:25 p.m. Dec. 25, a West Main Road resident reported harassment.

At 7:50 p.m. Dec. 25, a TV and X-Box were reported stolen from a Har-

Police Beat At 1:19 a.m. Dec. 15, a Madison Street resident reported his tires had been slashed.

At 12:40 p.m. Dec. 15, a non-injury traffic accident was reported on Mill Street.

At 3:14 p.m. Dec. 15, a Sandusky Street resident reported harassment.

At 4:40 p.m. Dec. 15, a domestic situation was reported on Daniels Avenue.

At 5:24 p.m. Dec. 15, Gary Ratliff, wanted for warrants through the Conneaut Municipal Court, was arrested on Route 7 by an Ohio Highway Patrol trooper. He was transported to the jail facility and booked in.

At 2:07 a.m. Dec. 16, a fight was reported at the Golden Anchor bar.

At 9:28 a.m. Dec. 16, a wheelbarrow and a shopping cart were reported stolen from a Liberty Street residence.

At 5:51 a.m. Dec. 17, shoplifting was reported at Love’s Travel Center.

At 8:52 a.m. Dec. 17, a non-injury traffic accident was reported in the area of Route 7 and I-90.

At 11:53 a.m. Dec. 17, a domestic situation was reported on Harbor Street.

At 3:01 p.m. Dec. 17, an attempted break in was reported on Harbor Street.

At 11:44 p.m. Dec. 17, a 15th St. resident reported an attempted theft.

At 12:59 p.m. Dec. 18, a non-injury traffic accident was reported in the Route 7 and Gateway Avenue area.

At 9:21 a.m. Dec. 19, the owner of a Main Street car lot reported a tire and rim were stolen off one of his vehicles.

At 10:47 a.m. Dec. 19, a package that was delivered through the mail was reported stolen from the porch of a Harbor Street residence.

At 11:47 a.m. Dec. 19, a door was reported stolen from a Main Street residence.

At 2:07 p.m. Dec. 19, a Broad Street resident reported harassing text messages At 3:39 a.m. Dec. 20, shoplifting was reported at Circle K Store.

At 7:38 a.m. Dec. 20, a break-in was reported at an abandoned Main Street residence.

At 4:31 p.m. Dec. 20, Conneaut Police were notified by Ashtabula police that Timothy Hughart was incarcerated at Ashtabula Jail. Since Conneaut police

NEW HOMES & KITCHENS

OVER 200 HOMES BUILT!

bor Street residence.

At 9:01 p.m. Dec. 25, a fight between two males was reported on Harbor Street.

At 3:46 p.m. Dec. 26, a domestic situation was reported on Madison Street.

At 7:34 a.m. Dec. 26, a Mentor resident suffered a bump on her head after a traffic accident in the area of Route 7, and I-90.

At 9 a.m. Dec. 26, a custody dispute was reported on Salem Street.

At 1:50 p.m. Dec. 26, the owner of a Culver Road. property reported metals and vehicle parts were stolen from his land.

At 1:54 p.m. Dec. 26, jewelry was reported stolen from a residence on Nickel Plate Avenue.

At 8:14 p.m. Dec. 26, a neighbor dispute was reported at a Harbor Street residence.

At 11:03 p.m. Dec. 26, a domestic situation was reported on Cleveland Court.

Roll-Over Victims Need No Aid

PHOTO BY JORDAN WISER

Around 3:45 p.m. Dec. 28, Conneaut Fire Station #1 and Conneaut Police Department were dispatched to the 400 block of Center Road for a van that had rolled over into a field. Upon their arrival, the Conneaut Police confirmed no one was trapped in the cars. Paramedics from Station 1 assessed the victims and no one was taken to the hospital. The road conditions were very icy, and Conneaut Police advised the Conneaut Fire Station to use extreme caution.

ALICE

From page 1A

vise his children in such a situation, to run — run until they cannot see the building, and then to run even farther.

Hendry said that most people have no comprehension of what happens during a real attack. When Conneaut Police Chief Chuck Burlingham said it would take Conneaut police five minutes to respond to an incident at Conneaut High School, Hendry replied that a shooter fires every four to twelve seconds.

As minds raced to do the math to comprehend how many students could die while waiting for the police, Hendry went on to say that police rarely stop shooters.

“Shooters usually surrender, or they commit suicide,” he said.

When Hendry asked the teachers and administrators why they have been told to hide together should an intrusion occur, no one could explain.

“It makes no sense,” he said. “Spread out. If you’re all bunched up, you are observing and not acting. I as an intruder have to think if you’re not all in a bunch.”

A video from Columbine and statistics from the Virginia Tech shootings showed the common sense in the ALICE method.

Hendry said many people fail to respond to warning signs of demented people or even to sounds of gunfire.

That failure to act extends to the “lock down” procedure.

“Why sit on the walls and wait for someone to come to them?” he said. “This is common sense, but not common knowledge.”

Attempting to negotiate with a shooter is pointless.

“They are suicidal and they want to take people with them,” he said.

If those in the audience thought they were too petite or untrained to take on an intruder, Hendry convinced them otherwise. He showed two young, slender Lakeshore Primary School teachers them how to grab his arms, take him to the floor, and keep him down. He handed out empty water bottles and asked teachers to fling them first below his shoulders and then straight at his head, showing how an intruder will be caught off guard when items — of any kind — are flung at his face.

“Why do we let gunmen come in and shoot?” he asked. “Why do we wait to get shot? The attackers are not usually highly skilled.

One gunman should not be able to shoot so many people before he is stopped.”

Hendry said that anything, especially a woman’s handbag, can be used as a weapon.

With Conneaut High School Athletic Director Joel Taylor as his assistant, he showed how two people standing on either side of the door inside a room, holding chairs which they will use as weapons, can perhaps bring down a gunman.

“Gunmen are not in charge. They have to react to you,” he said.

He reminded that gunmen come without warning.

“They don’t arrive and say, ‘Hi, I’m here,’” he said.

“There is no alert other than the gun.”

Hendry also advised schools to alert staff and students to the gunman’s location.

“Get on the PA and say he is in the front hallway, or say he has moved to the back of the building,” he said.

Discussing the lifelong psychological impact of guilt due to inaction— the “shoulda-coulda-woulda” turmoil — Hendry also talked about what happens when police arrive, armed, shouting orders in an effort to gain control.

Conneaut Area City Schools Superintendent Kent Houston was instrumental in bringing Hendry to speak on a “Waiver Day,” a day free for students when teachers and administrators were required to attend the meeting. It is no secret that Houston, who had heard Hendry’s presentation at an administrator’s meeting in August, would like to implement the ALICE response in the district.

That would require his recommendation and the approval of the school board, he said.

After the program, Hendry said that the common “lock-down” model used in most schools originated during prison riots of 40 and 50 years ago.

Conneaut teacher Courney Case (right) and Lt. Joseph Hendry carry Conneaut teacher Missy Heinonen as Hendry demonstrates how to carry an injured person over a long distance.

Along with Lakeshore Primary teachers, Conneaut Area City Schools Board of Education member Mike Kennedy was pressed into service during Lt. Joseph Hendry’s presentation on subduing an armed intruder Tuesday morning at Conneaut High School. Hendry was the “intruder.”

“It was a national model with them for years, so they could keep track of the inmates,” he said. “The schools had nothing else to grab onto and there were no new concepts.”

Schools in Texas and Ohio have the highest rates of ALICE training in the nation, he said, but teaching it remains an uphill battle.

Hendry had to take a vacation day to come to Ashtabula County from Kent on Tuesday. A presentation in Jefferson on Tuesday afternoon had been cancelled.

“I’d love it if someone

would pay me to do this full time,” he said.

Also in Tuesday’s audience was Jefferson Village Police Chief Dave Wassie.

Wassie made the 22-mile one-way trek because the program scheduled for Jefferson later that afternoon was not open to the public. He was impressed with what he saw.

“My concern is to save lives,” he said. “It implements things I hadn’t thought of.”

Wassie added, however, that if one county school system adopts the program, the others should, too, so that all are on the same page.

The Conneaut Human Resources Center Presents

A VCalentine elebration ○

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LIVE ❦ LAUGH ❦ LOVE ○

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FEBRUARY 11 ❦ 8:30PM - 1:00AM ○

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BYOB • Baked Goods • Hot Food • Ice • Soft Drinks Available

50/50 Drawing • Chinese Auction e To Benefit th an m Hu ut ea nn Co s ce ur so Re Center

Doors Open 7:30pm Stand-Up Comedy Show 8:30pm Anthony Evans Virtual DJ Show 10pm-1am

Tickets $10.00 Available at the CHRC, Burning Stone Café and Conneaut Chamber of Commerce

Lt. Joseph Hendry (left) shows how one can use a fountain pen, a belt and shoelaces to create a tourniquet to stop bleeding in a shooting victim. His volunteer at Tuesday’s program at Conneaut High School was City Manager Tim Eggleston.

THURSDAY, JANUARY 5, 2012

GAZETTE NEWSPAPERS • 5A

Pharmacy & Health Treatment for Abnormal Heart Rhythm Atrial fibrillation (AF) is an abnormal heart rhythm.

With AF, the upper heart chambers (atria) do not pump blood adequately, leading to the risk of blood clot formation. Persons with heart diseases such as high blood pressure or heart failure are at an increased risk of developing AF. Other types of conditions can also increase the risk of AF include sleep apnea, and emphysema.

Although some persons may not experience any signs or symptoms, some may experience chest pain, shortness of breath, dizziness, and fainting. An electrocardiogram can be used in the diagnosis of an AF. Treatment for AF is aimed at preventing a stroke. Antiarrhythmic medications that may be prescribed include a beta blocker, such as esmolol (Brevibloc), calcium channel blocker, such as

by Kerry Gerdes Gerdes Pharmacy 245 Main St. 593-2578 diltiazem (Cardizem), or digoxin to control the heart rate. Alternatively, use of a pacemaker or implantable atrial defibrillator may be used to control the heart rhythm or rate.

Anticoagulant medications may be prescribed to reduce the risk of formation of blood clots and therefore reduce the risk of a stroke.

Warfarin (Coumadin) and dabigatran (Pradaxa) are anticoagulant medications that may be prescribed.

Persons who take warfarin require monitoring with a blood test on a regular basis, while Pradaxa does not require regular blood tests.

Letter To The Editor Salvation Army Thanks Community Dear Editor: The Conneaut Salvation Army Service Unit would like to thank everyone who rang a bell for Salvation Army this Christmas season. Your time and effort helped raise a total of $6917.03.

We would also like to extend a “Resounding ThankYou” to those who supported the Salvation Army through their giving. Without your generous hearts, we could not help those in the community who are in need. The people in this community showed the generosity not only with Salvation Army but also the Conneaut Food Pantry. You are amazing!

In our effort to work together for the good of our community, I encourage you to continue the support to both these organizations throughout the year. As a reminder, all the monies raised through Conneaut Salvation Army Service Unit stay in our community and help those in our community.

Thank you from all of us on the board of Salvation Army!

May God Bless you this New Year.

At Home With.... Vickie Marcy Hi everyone! Winter ’s here and wow, what a couple of cold snowy days we’ve had. I don’t know about all of you out there but I’m rethinking my stand on liking winter and the snow; now I know why bears hibernate.

Let’s see, curl up and sleep in a nice warm cave all winter while the bitter cold wind howls outside as I snuggle deeper into the warmth of the cave or be exposed to the elements and try to forage for food in the frozen tundra while the wind howls around me and snow is pelting me in the face...hmm, I’ll take the nice warm cave and a long winter’s snooze, and one extra blanket please.

When the weather is cold and snowy, I like to stay inside and get chores done that I haven’t had a chance to get to during the holidays, but after a few days everything’s caught up and then I pull out cookbooks and sit for hours reading and putting new recipes together in my mind.

I found a cookbook from the 50’s and it had some really good reading in it. It not only had recipes that I’ve never tried, there were some I’ve never heard of, and some I’d never fix; it also had tips for fine dining at home.

Fine dining, wow! The cookbook looks like it should be in June Cleaver’s kitchen because every other page has a picture of a lady in pearls and heels with a tiny little frilly apron on baking or serving a meal. Uh, I don’t think I own any pearls, let alone heels and my days of wearing cute little frilly anything, let alone aprons, have long since passed Anyway, I’m going to try some of the recipes and I’m going to share a few with you today. I can pretty much guarantee that I’ll be wearing jeans, sneakers and an

Combine whipping cream and sugar in heavy sauce pan. Over medium heat, cook, stirring constantly until sugar dissolves; stir in chocolate, corn syrup and butter. Cook over low heat, stirring occasionally until chocolate dissolves and mixture is well blended. Remove from heat and stir in vanilla, set aside to cool to room temperature. Place sauce in jars Vickie Marcy with tight fitting lids, store in refrigerator. To serve hot, in the lap of luxury wasn’t spoon into microwave safe it?? No? Doesn’t count so bowl, heat for 20 - 25 seconds move on? Well, ok, time to until warm. Yields about 2 get to our recipes.

1/2 cups fudge sauce.

Have you ever had a hankering for hot fudge any- CHICKEN, BROCCOLI AND thing? Yeah, me too! I found CHEESE CASEROLE a recipe for hot fudge sauce 1/4 cup melted butter that is so simple and so good 3 cups cubed day old it makes my mouth water bread (sourdough is thinking about it. It’s not great, but any will do) just for ice cream anymore.

1/2 cup fresh grated You can pour hot fudge sauce parmesan cheese, or you on cakes, cookies, my can use from jar tongue, puddings or a host 1 cup small broccoli of other things. Personally, I flowerets could take a spoon and eat 3 cups canned chicken it plain but I’ll refrain from breast that since I heard hot fudge 1 jar Alfredo sauce sauce COULD lead to weight 1/2 cup sour cream gain if eaten in excess. Moderation, that’s the key; would In large bowl, place someone pass the hot fudge bread cubes. Drizzle butter sauce and the jar of peanut over bread cubes, sprinkle butter please?? with cheese and toss to coat. Combine broccoli and THE BEST HOT FUDGE remaining ingredients, add SAUCE to bread mixture and toss 1 cup heavy whipping lightly. Spoon into 8x8 bakcream ing pan that has been 1/4 cup sugar lightly sprayed; sprinkle 8 oz. finely chopped additional parmesan unsweetened chocolate cheese over top if desired, 1/3 cup corn syrup bake at 400 degrees for 25 1/4 cup unsalted butter - 30 minutes or until bub2 tsp. vanilla bly and browned slightly on top. For a spicier dish, add four ounces shredded QUICK TIP OF THE WEEK: Jalape–o cheese to mixture; Put those Christmas cards from friends and famdelicious! ily to good use after the Holidays are over: glue or tape the bottom and sides and use for CD’s or, better That’s going to do it for yet, let the kids and grandkids use them for craft today, so until next time, projects. stay safe and happy!

old apron while I’m cooking so I won’t ruin my pearls, heels and tiny ruffled apron...right! Did people really dine like that over half a century ago?

Lace tablecloth, lit candles and fresh flowers on the table and everyone in dress clothes to eat lunch; um, ok, I may have dined like that once at a formal dinner but never at lunch!

Kind of makes you wonder what they did for breakfast, doesn’t it? Duh, silly me, here’s a breakfast section that I overlooked: all I can say is, you’ve got to be kidding!

I’m a pretty good cook/ baker but to the best of my knowledge I’ve never served broiled grapefruit, soft boiled eggs in fancy egg cups, butter that’s been carved to resemble tiny flowers, toast points, creamed salmon over waffles, or dozens of other breakfast items in the book.

Hey, here’s a thought, why not open a box of oatmeal and have a quick breakfast of oatmeal, toast and juice?

Or better yet, grab a frozen waffle, frozen sausages and frozen orange juice and have breakfast ready in ten minutes??

OK, I’m joking...kind of.

Maybe people did eat that way long ago, but today it’s not something you see everyday...unless you were born into the lap of luxury, which I definitely wasn’t unless you count the few times I sat on Santa’s lap when I was little. Hey! He’s got all the toys, so sitting on his lap was sort of like being

Matt Kitchen Wins Chamber Playhouse Raffle

The Rev. Franklin J. Gore, President Conneaut Salvation Army Service Unit (Serving Conneaut, N. Kingsville, Kingsville, Monroe, and Pierpoint)

Conneaut’s Creative Writing Another New Year Another year has passed Our threadbare illusions crumple by the wayside.

Dreams, hope, wishes cast up to a disinterested heaven, trickle to Earth, unrealized.

Whether we aim too high or too often, needs are not met.

Another year approaches; another chance to make amends for any slights, real or imagined.

Oh, Christmas Tree Oh, Christmas tree, oh, Christmas tree, how bare now are your branches!

The cats have all discovered you knocking off a ball or two.

Oh, Christmas tree, oh, Christmas tree, how bare now are your branches!

The tinsel is now on the floor, The angel rests beside the door.

Oh, Christmas tree, oh, Christmas tree, how bare now are your branches!

The tabby lays amid the mess of several presents, more or less.

Oh, Christmas tree, oh, Christmas tree, How bare, now, are your branches!

The little tom sits on a limb There’s nothing now to persuade him that he should leave the Christmas tree while it still has some branches.

Christmas Blows !!

It happened once again, this year, I swear by Rudolph’s nose!

I’m becoming Mrs. Scrooge!

I tell you, Christmas blows!

I wrapped all the presents bought, but, I guess it shows I’m giving up the Christmas Ghost.

I tell you, Christmas Blows!

Each person gets a present.

(I’m giving, heaven knows) Naught for me beneath the tree.

I tell you, Christmas Blows !

I made cookies, brought the ham, (That’s how it always goes).

Tonight, I fed the multitudes.

I tell you, Christmas Blows!

When Christmas season comes next year, I’m going to thumb my nose at every “Merry Christmas” wish.

I tell you, Christmas Blows!

- Meryl Taylor

SUBMITTED PHOTO

Chuck Herb (right) of Herb’s Towing prepares to load the playhouse for winner Matt Kitchen (left) as Conneaut Area Chamber of Commerce President Hattie Barnard looks on. The playhouse, constructed by inmates at Lake Erie Correctional Institution, was raffled immediately following the Annual Christmas Parade on Nov. 25. Herb generously agreed to assist in moving the playhouse to its new home.

Conneaut Community Center for the Arts 1025 Buffalo St. (440) 593-5888

Four-week session of adult Woodcarving classes, with instructor Terri Schultz, begins 7 to 9 p.m. Jan. 5 and continues Thursday evenings through Jan. 26. Supplies furnished for beginners. Fee $28 non-members and $25.20 CCCA members.

Kingsville Public Library Events “Basic Computers” is offered 5 to 7 p.m. Tuesdays, starting Jan. 10. Call 224-0239 for more information.

The classes are free.

A free four-week adult course in Conversational German, taught by Bonnie Ahola, will be offered 10 to 11 a.m. Fridays starting Jan. 13. No prior experience with German is required.

Kingsville Public Library will show “Mister Popper’s Penguins” at its next Movie Matinee 2 p.m.

Jan. 16 the Simak Welcome Center, 3205 School Street.

Free popcorn for those with Kingsville Public Library cards. Friends of the Kingsville Public Library will sell other refreshments.

Instructor Paula Knepp begins a new six-week session of Zumba 7:30 to 8:30 p.m. Jan. 2. Classes held 7:30 to 8:30 p.m. Mondays and Wednesdays.

A seven-week session of “PM Workout,” with Sally Mucci begins the week of Jan. 9. Classes 6:30 to 7:30 p.m.

Mondays and Wednesdays.

A new four-week session of Middle School Illustration Drawing classes, with instructor Kathryn Ford, starts 5 to 6 p.m. Jan. 9 and continues through Jan. 30.

Classes are geared to drawing techniques such as cartoon drawing, character drawing, illustrations exploring beyond what is offered in school. Ford has a BFA from Edinboro University with emphasis in graphic design and illustration.

Intermediate Quilting Class with Evelyn Boeson begins a five-week session 9 to 11 a.m. Saturday, Jan. 14 for quilters who have taken a beginning quilt class or are experienced quilters looking for a refresher class. Learn new patterns and techniques in this wintertime class offering.

Kremer Home

Would Like To Cordially Invite You To Join Us

January 8th, 2012 • 2-4pm BOOK SIGNING Dennis Hale, Author of Shipwrecked: Reflections of the Sole Survivor, speaking of his experience as sole survivor of SS Morrell Freighter on Lake Huron 12/29/1966.

LIGHT REFRESHMENTS

455 Main Street, Conneaut • (440) 593-6380

6A • GAZETTE NEWSPAPERS

THURSDAY, JANUARY 5, 2012

LEAF Generosity Continues Into Christmas

Church Sign of the Week: Happy New Year!

- New Leaf United Methodist Church

By MARTHA SOROHAN Gazette Newspapers

worked together to decorate one home, after several other homeowners took CONNEAUT - Who says their names off the list, for that LEAF community ser- unknown reasons. The vice projects must be con- decorating took one hour.

At the home, youth carfined to eight days in July?

Adults and youth from ried several heavy boxes up New Leaf United Method- from the basement, and the ist Church so enjoyed par- homeowner directed them ticipating in the annual as to what she wanted.

“We placed some wooden LEAF (Loving Equally All Families) community assis- figures on the porch, tance project last summer wrapped lights on the porch that they expressed to poles and around the porch, youth group leaders Sara and wrapped more lights on Wade and Debbie Tisdale a the deck on the side of the desire to help others in the house,” Wade said.

The teens replaced some community during the holiburned-out bulbs, put little day season.

What better way to show lights out on holly bushes off a community than in front of the house and asthrough Christmas lights? sembled and placed a Thus was born their lighted tree in the front project to help yard.

The best part of the homeowners decorate their homes’ exteriors for evening for the youth decoChristmas. Called “Shine rating may have been the His Bright Light,” the big bowl of popcorn preproject consisted of youth sented when the task was putting up and taking done. down homeowner-supplied The project is not quite decorations and extension complete. cords at no cost.

Though the group deco“We set up a booth ev- rated just one house, they ery Sunday in November received two more houses between the 9 and 11 a.m. to “de-decorate” in late services at New Leaf where January or early February, adults could ask questions at the homeowners’ reabout our mission and sign quest.

Youth also spread up for our assistance,” Wade said. “For homeown- Christmas cheer in other ers, it meant they did not ways that that same night.

“As a youth leader, you have to be out in the cold or carry heavy boxes or get always have to have a Plan up on ladders, often trying B, and since we had had some cancellations, we to do the work alone.”

In the end, a group of knew we did not want to about 25 youth and adults send everyone to this one

Religious Briefs At 8:30 contemporary and 11 a.m. traditional worship Jan. 8, Baptism of the Lord, at Good Shepherd Lutheran Church, Grove Street at Lake Road, greeters are Kyle Vidmar and Jack and April Sabo. Jan. 8 is Mission Sunday. Bring in Food Pantry items and capital campaign offerings.

Worship at 9 a.m. (contemporary in the Worship Center) and 11 a.m. (traditional in the Sanctuary) Jan. 8 at New Leaf United Methodist Church, 283 Buffalo Street.

Free brunch served 8:45 to 11 a.m. All welcome.

Greeters for 11 a.m. worship Jan. 8 at First Baptist Church, 370 State St., are Nancy Batchelor, Lynnette O’Baker, Kathy Drew and Ken and Ruth Powell.

CHURCH MEALS New Leaf United Methodist Church, 283 Buffalo Street, will serve its free Friday dinner, prepared by Dave Jones, from 5 to 6 p.m. Jan. 6.

Hot soup-and-sandwich lunch will be offered 11:30 a.m. to 1 p.m. Jan. 6 at First Congregational United Church of Christ, Main & Buffalo Street. Donation $6.

Community Men’s Prayer Breakfast will be held 8:30 SUBMITTED PHOTOS to 9:30 a.m. Jan. 14 at New Leaf United Methodist Church, Carly Kay, MacKenzie Powell and Michelle Tisdale par- 283 Buffalo Street. All men of the community are welcome. ticipate in the Live Nativity at New Leaf United Methodist Church.

Good Shepherd Lutheran Church, Grove Street at Lake house,” Wade said. “So, six gram is off to a good start. Road, will host a Chicken & Biscuit Dinner 4 to 7 p.m. youth and one leader deco- It was restricted this year Jan. 21. Carry-out available. Adults $7, children 10 and rated the house that we had to the New Leaf church under, $4. Menu includes mashed potatoes, green beans, applesauce, dessert, beverage. on our list, and the rest of family because it is new.

“The homeowner was the group baked cookies for Good Shepherd Lutheran Church Youth Group are takour live nativity scene (on happy because the house Dec. 18) and decorated our had not been decorated for ing orders this month for its Super Bowl Sunday Sub Youth Bulletin Boards in a few years because of Sale. Call 599-8908. the church as a Christmas health problems, and so when she saw the sign up card from the youth.”

Overall, Wade and at the church, she was Tisdale believe the pro- glad,” Wade said.

Church Directory

ASSEMBLY OF GOD

METHODIST

First Assembly of God 389 W. Main Rd., Conneaut, 599-8852 The Rev. George Fink, Pastor 9:30 a.m. Sunday School 10:30 a.m. & 6 p.m. Worship

Amboy United Methodist Church 554 W. Main Rd., Conneaut, 593-5901 The Rev. Elaine Turner 10 a.m. Worship & Sunday School

BAPTIST East Conneaut Baptist Chapel 393 Jennie St., Conneaut, 599-7665 The Rev. Terry Kern, pastor 9:45 a.m. Sunday School 11 a.m. & 7 p.m. Worship KIngsville First Baptist Church (Am.) 6003 St. Rt. 193, Kingsville, 224-1081 The Rev. David Hines 9:30 Sunday School 10:45 a.m. & 6:00 p.m. Worship First Baptist Church of Conneaut 370 State St., Conneaut, 593-5120 The Rev. Jonathan Singer 9:45 a.m. Sunday School/Children’s Church 11 a.m. Worship Lighthouse Free Will Baptist Church 248 Buffalo St., Conneaut, 593-5260 Pastor Tim Byers 10:30 a.m. Sunday Worship Old Time Baptist Church 809 Furnace Road, Conneaut Richard Elliot, pastor 10 a.m. & 6 p.m. Worship

Becca Tisdale and Amber

Alex Williams and India Davis

Bus Route Begins Weekday Afternoons Here is the route of the new bus service that Ashtabula County Transportation System (ACTS) is bringing to Cnneaut residents weekday afternoons from 1 to 4 p.m.

Fare is just $1.

Times and locations indicate actual Bus Stops of 2 minutes each (Times may vary by a minute or two) 1:00 Sunrise West Apartments :03

Highland Apartments

:06 -

Save-A-Lot Rent-A-Center Family Dollar Perkins Restaurant Rte 20 East

:10 -

UH Conneaut Medical Center Rte 20 East Dairy Queen Right (South) on Mill Street (Rte 7) (Demand only to Conneaut Human Resource Center)

:20 -

Kmart Rte 20 North Right on Main Street Golden Dawn City Hall Right on Broad Street South Right on Liberty

:30 -

Rear of Golden Dawn Left on Liberty

Your Local Independent Pharmacy for 50 Years Kerry Gerdes, Ticey Czup & Dave Turner, Pharmacists

HOME DELIVERY AVAILABLE!

GERDES PHARMACY

245 Main St., Conneaut

593-2578 • 1-800-445-2537 Monday-Friday 9-8 • Saturday 9-6 www.mygnp.com/gerdesrx

-

Left on Washington Key Bank Right on Main Left on Rte 20

:35 -

Conneaut Manor Rte 20 West Clark Gas Station Conneaut Phone Co. Right (North) Broad Street Quizno’s Subs Lake Road

:40 -

Moose Lodge Broad St. South Rte 20 West Post Office Mill St. Conneaut Human Resource Center (On Demand only) Conneaut Public Library (On Demand only) CVS Pharmacy

:48

UH Conneaut Medical Center

:53

Save-A-Lot

:58

Highland Apartments

:60

Return to Sunrise West Apartments (On Demand Only)

Bus will stop anywhere along the route if requested.

Passengers requesting rides to Conneaut from Ashtabula or Conneaut to Ashtabula can call the ACTS Operation Center at 440.992.4411 or 800.445.4140 for more information on availability.

Local Events Jan. 6 - Soup and sandwich luncheon, 11:30 a.m. to 1 p.m. at First Congregational United Church of Christ, Main & Buffalo Streets. Donation $6.

Jan. 7 - AUCE Breakfast, 8 a.m. to noon at Kingsville Masonic Temple, Route 193 and Creek Road.

Jan. 10 - Bingo 6 p.m. at Conneaut Optimist Club, 514 Harbor Street. Held every Tuesday.

Jan. 14 - AUCE Breakfast, 8 a.m. to noon at Conneaut Optimist Club, 514 Harbor Street. Donation $6.

South Ridge Baptist Church 924 Center Rd., Conneaut, 593-1481 Dr. Roger Hogle, pastor 10 a.m. Sunday School 11 a.m. Worship Services

New Leaf United Methodist Church 283 Buffalo St., Conneaut, 593-2525 The Revs. Scott & Jan Walsh, pastors 9 a.m. Contemporary Service 11 a.m. Traditional Service Gageville United Methodist Church 4063 St. Rt. 193, Kingsville, 224-0165 The Rev. David L. Blood, pastor 11 a.m. Worship Kelloggsville United Methodist Church 4763 North Monroe Center Rd. Conn The Rev. Elaine Turner 9 a.m. Worship 9:15 a.m. Sunday School Monroe United Methodist Church 4302 Center Rd., Conneaut, 594-1165 Jeremy Roseberry, pastor 9:30 a.m. Worship 11 a.m. Sunday School State Line United Methodist Church 7321 Bushnell Rd, Conneaut, 594-4267 The Rev. David L. Blood, pastor 9:30 a.m. Worship Services 10:30 a.m. Sunday School Wesleyan Methodist Church 313 E. Main Rd., Conneaut, 599-7228 The Rev. Wesley McIntire, pastor 9:30 Sunday School 10:45 & 7 p.m. Worship Service NAZARENE

CATHOLIC St. Frances Cabrini Church 744 Mill St., Conneaut, 599-8570 The Rev. Philip Miller Masses: 11:00 a.m. Sunday 5 p.m. Saturday (April - Sept) Morning Prayer 7:30 a.m. Wed-Thurs

Kelloggsville Church of the Nazarene 4841 St. Rt. 84, Kingsville, 224-1415 Pastor Les Bolen 9:30 a.m. Sunday School 10:45 a.m. & 6 p.m. Worship NEW APOSTOLIC CHURCH

St. Mary Church 744 Mill St., Conneaut, 599-8570 The Rev. Philip Miller Masses: 8 a.m. Sunday (April - Sept) 4 p.m. Saturday (Oct.-Mar.) Morning Prayer 7:30 a.m. Mon-Tues

New Apostolic Church 264 State St., Conneaut The Rev. William McNutt 9 a.m. Sunday School 10:30 a.m. Sun 8 p.m. Wed Worship

CHURCH OF CHRIST

NONDENOMINATIONAL

Church of Christ 448 W. Main Rd., Conneaut, 599-7401 Tim Kraus, pastor 9:30 a.m. Sunday School 10:30 a.m. Worship UNITED CHURCH OF CHRIST

1st Azusa Church Apostolic Faith Church of God Buffalo & Jefferson Sts., Conneaut 593-1576 Elder Robert Lyons, pastor Sunday worship: 11 - 11:45 a.m.

Morning worship: Noon - 1:30 p.m.

First Congregatinal United Church of Christ of Conneaut Main & Buffalo, Conneaut, 599-8744 Joyce Shellhammer, lay pastor 10:00 a.m. Sunday School 11 a.m. Worship

Edgewood Alliance Church 3137 E. Center St., N. Kingsville 224-2111 Senior Pastor Gary Russell 9 a.m. Sunday School 10 a.m. & 5:30 p.m. Worship

CHURCH OF GOD

Open Door Community Church 5802 Cemetery Rd, Kingsville 224-2675 The Rev. Greg Evans, pastor 9:30 a.m. Sunday School 10:30 a.m. Worship

Conneaut Church of God 5327 Center Rd., Conneaut, 594-7136 Carson Robson, pastor 9:30 a.m. Sunday School 10:30 a.m. & 6 p.m Sunday Worship FOURSQUARE GOSPEL Family Fellowship 641 Mill St, Conneaut, 593-3095 Bob Tarasiak, pastor 9:45 a.m. Prayer 10:30 a.m. & 6 p.m. Sunday Worship LUTHERAN Good Shepherd Lutheran Church 876 Grove St. (@Lake Rd.), Conneaut 599-8908 The Rev. Franklin Gore 8:30 a.m. Contemporary worship 9:45 a.m. Sunday School 11 a.m. Trad. worship, nursery avail.

MESSIANIC JEWISH Beit Lechem Congregation 593-4518 Trudy Hazen, pastor Sat. 10 a.m. Shabbat

Victory Fellowship 253 Liberty Street, Conneaut 593-2182 The Rev. Barry Todd 10:30 a.m. & 6:30 p.m Worship PRESBYTERIAN Kingsville Presbyterian Church 3056 W. Main St., Kingsville 224-1023 10 a.m. Worship and Sunday School North Kingsville Presbyterian Church 6546 Church St., Kingsville, 224-1491 Ken Ayers, CLP, pastor 10:00 a.m. Worship 11:00 a.m. Sunday School Pierpont Presbyterian Church 71 St. Rt. 7 S., Pierpont 577-1218 9:45 a.m. Sunday School 11 a.m. Worship

The Courier will publish your wedding, anniversary, birth and engagements at no charge!

Email courier@gazettenews.com

THURSDAY, JANUARY 5, 2012

GAZETTE NEWSPAPERS • 7A

No Martin the Spartan

The committee that helped bring Spartan King Leonidas to the lobby of Conneaut High School included (group at left) (front, left) Stephanie Burnett, Peggy Taylor, Bonnie Watts; CHS Athletic Director Joel Taylor (middle) and CHS Art Teacher Bob Cox; on opposite side of the statue case are (front, from left) Bob Cox, Sandy Dombrowski and Rita Vendetti, all CHS ’58; (back, left) CHS Principal Dawn Zappitelli and Matt Pape.

By MARTHA SOROHAN Gazette Newspapers

the armor, Cox ordered a second mannequin and interchanged some of the parts CONNEAUT - The namely, swapping the old larger-than-life Spartan torso for a new one - - a la warrior that has stood guard Dr. Frankenstein’s creature. over the main lobby of “We had to have someConneaut High School the thing the armor would past three months is no Mar- cover,” he said. tin the Spartan.

The two-color blue and He is King Leonidas - so gold plume on the helmet named by Conneaut High signifies that of a high-rankSchool students who had ing military officer, Cox exanticipated his arrival since plained. last spring.

“It is proper for a leader,” Even before they saw him he said. for the first time at the unThe statue’s sandals veiling during Homecoming came from a costume comweekend, they voted on his pany. name: Leonidas, King of the “I didn’t know anything Spartans. They were famil- about the size, and just iar with Leonidas from the hoped they’d fit,” Cox said. movie “300,” about the SparThe real sword held in the tans’ famous battle against mannequin’s right hand is of the Persian army.

Greek design. A hole was Making the high school bored through the lobby more friendly to visi- mannequin’s hands so the tors, and visually linking the sword and shield could be school to its mascot, had attached. Both were props been a goal of the School were made in California from Pride committee since it was the movie “300,” and which formed in 2005.

Cox acquired over e-bay.

But turning the goal into “That movie had a lot of reality might not have hap- computerization, but the pened without a commit- props were real,” Cox said. ment from the Class of ’58, The armor - often used by along with CHS art teacher Roman soldier re-enactors Bob Cox, who spent about a is real, most coming from year researching the cloth- armor companies. ing and gear required for a Even so, the sword and warrior mannequin. He the shield had to be the right helped secure its clothing size for the mannequin. and purchased his armor “There were other and weaponry. shields, but some of them Much of Leonidas’ gear is were too small. I had to deauthentic. termine the size of the case,” “It took a lot longer than he said, referring to the glass I had hoped, but I wanted it case in which the Spartan is to be realistic,” he said. “I protected. The case was conwould contact one company, structed by Matt Pape and and it would guide me to Mike Clancy, using glass doanother.” nated by Corporate Glass of The process also became Erie, Pa. more complicated than Cox Cox said that purchasing had anticipated. the clothing was not diffiAfter the first mannequin cult, since costume compaarrived, and proved to be too nies frequently make “overmuscular to be covered by runs” on costumes for mov-

ies and are willing to sell off the excess.

The cape was designed and sewn by Jen Krenisky of Jen’s Sewing.

“We had lots of volunteer help,” Cox said.

Behind the mascot, inside the case, is a mural painted

by Cox, an acrylic piece on a gold background.

How did Cox come up with it?

“I looked at a lot of battle pictures,” he explained.

Once the mural was done, Leonidas was placed inside and the case was pieced together. “[Athletic Director] Joel

Taylor and I came up with the idea of protecting Leonidas with a glass case,” Cox said.

The eye-catching statue, definitely worth seeing, cost the public nothing.

“It was basically all donations, all $3,000 to $4,000,” Cox said.

Donors included the Class of 1958, the School Pride Committee, and other staff donations.

At the statue’s unveiling over Homecoming weekend, CHS Principal Dawn Zappitelli thanked the Class of 1958 for volunteering with the project.

My Day in Court

by Rashad al-Araibi “My Day in Court” was a great learning experience for me. Throughout my session of observation, I learned many things, such as judicial system regulations, policies and the duties of judicial officers, along with the schooling and training qualifications that must be met in order to become a judicial officer.

Rashad al-Araibi Some of these officers are the court reporter, who types out everything that is said in the courtroom on a stenograph; the deputy clerk, who handles all papers for the judge to read and papers that are held for processing; the bailiff; and the clerk, who accepts payments such as fines that must be paid.

The officer who is said to have the highest authority in the courtroom is the judge himself, which in my case, is the Honorable Judge Thomas Harris. He is required to wear a black robe that represents authority in the courtroom.

This authority was demonstrated as we all rose for his entrance to the courtroom, and that’s when I realized that my experience had just begun.

As everyone was seated, the session in the court began. Judge Harris then read the rights to all people who were ordered to attend court that day. After this was completed, people were called up one-by-one. The charges against that person were stated and they had the right to plead guilty, not guilty or no contest. If they plead guilty, they were prosecuted and penalized for the crimes they were convicted of, which usually involved a jail sentence, a fine, or both.

If they plead not guilty, they were scheduled for a court trial by jury and would be considered innocent until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt.

If they plead no contest, they were obligated to state the truth about what happened and were scheduled for a trial to prove that there was no evidence against them.

The range of penalty was determined by what crime they committed, how they reacted to the arrest and charges, and the background records. The two types of penalties I witnessed were felonies and misdemeanors. Felonies usually call for a prison sentence, while misdemeanors only call for a sentence at a local jail. The two types of cases I witnessed were regular criminal cases and traffic cases. These cases were presented separately and the arraignments were read before each type was presented.

One recurring pattern I noticed was that almost every case was drug- or alcohol-related in some way. This proves to me that an easy way to stay out of trouble is to avoid these harmful substances. I believe this healthy life choice will provide for a longer, safer, happier life for not only me, but also my family as I mature.

Overall, I believe that this program is a great learning experience. It has really opened my eyes to the judicial system and has provided a sense of encouragement to lead a safe, healthy life.

I hope this program has the same effect on my peers and the rest of the younger generation in a way that could possibly change the future of the town. I would like to thank Conneaut Schools and also Judge Thomas Harris for this experience.

And that’s my Day in Court.

Al-Araibi’s is one of six winning essays written by Conneaut Middle School eighth-graders following the “My Day In Court” field trip to Conneaut Municipal Court.

Learn more about what your Ashtabula County Technical and Career Campus has to offer to start a new career, help you advance your current career or continue your education.

Enroll now in one of our Adult Career Technical Education Programs and start your career soon!

Find out everything you need to know about classes by visiting us 24/7 online @ WWW.ATECH.EDU

Adults, Enroll Now For: BUSINESS OFFICE SPECIALIST Develop business training & educational competencies for entry-level office careers.

Days: Monday - Thursday Time: 5:30 p.m. - 10:00 p.m.

Class Begins: 01/09/12

Microsoft Word I & II

Rebecca Holdson is Student of the Month

Introduction to processing computerized documents such as letters, newsletters, flyers.

Days: Mondays & Wednesdays Time: 5:30 p.m. - 10:00 p.m.

Class begins: 03/14/12

PHOTO BY MARTHA SOROHAN

Gateway Elementary School fifth-grade teacher Pam Greenfield (left) introduced Student of the Month Rebecca Holdson (center) to the Conneaut Area City Schools Board of Education at its Dec. 21 meeting. Greenfield selected the honor roll student as this month’s recipient because of her excellent academic and interpersonal skills. Holdson completes assignments on time, looks on the positive side, and is a good role model. “I enjoy having her in class,” Greenfield said.

Watching Holdson receive the award were her father, Wesley (back) her mother, Shelly; sister, Avery; and her grandmother, Liz Poland (right, rear). The Conneaut Area Chamber of Commerce and Conneaut Telephone sponsor the Student of the Month Award.

Alumni Calendar CHS Class of 1964 Conneaut High School Class of 1964 will meet 6 p.m. Jan. 6 at Pat’s Fireside Lounge.

Spouses and guests are welcome.

Rowe High School ‘58 Rowe High School Class of 1958 will meet 12:30 p.m. Jan. 18 at Kay’s Place, I-90 and Route 193.

Spouses and guests are welcome.

Hoop Shoots Jan. 7, 14 The Knights of Columbus Hoop Shoot, for boys and girls 10 to 14 as of Jan. 1, will be held Saturday at St. Mary Hall, State & Chestnut Street. First-place trophies will be awarded. District competition for first-place winners will take place in February. The Elks Annual Hoop Shoot is 1 p.m. Jan. 14 at Conneaut Middle School for boys and girls ages 8 to 13 as of April 1, 2012. Doors open at 12:30 p.m.

Trophies will go to first, second and third place in each gender and age group. District competition for first-place winners will be held Jan. 21.

For times and other information, call Linda Polshosky (440) 599-8741.

Microsoft Excel I & II Introduction to processing computerized spreadsheets (i.e. building, setup & format)

Days: Mondays & Wednesdays Time: 5:30 p.m. - 10:00 p.m.

Class begins: 05/14/12

Online Ed2go Online learning anytime, anywhere … just a click away!

Informative, fun, convenient and highly interactive online courses, most running for only six weeks and only cost $95.

Just a sample of courses: Navigating the Internet, Learning to Buy and Sell on eBay, Discover Digital Photography, Lose Weight and Keep it Off, Grant Writing, Creating Web Pages, Going Green at Home

Visit our Online Instruction Center to find more courses!! www.ed2go.com/ATech

CNC—Computerized Numerical Controls The Industrial Welding program offers training in stick, MIG, and TIG processes.

Days: Mondays & Wednesdays Times: 6:00 p.m. - 10:15 p.m.

Class begins: 01/23/12

SolidWorks A 60-hour integrated course in SolidWorks Essentials, Drawing Creation and Advance Part Modeling.

Days: Mondays & Wednesdays Times: 6:00 p.m. - 9:00 p.m.

Class begins: 04/16/12

Medical Readiness Class A FREE course to help you prepare for success in any health-related educational program!

36—Hour Class Beginning January 9, 2012 You must attend an ABLE Orientation session prior to the first day of class.

TO ENROLL CONTACT THE ABLE OFFICE @ 440-576-5599

WORKFORCE DEVELOPMENT—CALL NOW FOR MORE INFORMATION

440-576-6015 extension 1009 1565 State Route 167, Jefferson, Ohio 44047 . 440-576-6015 . WWW.ATECH.EDU

The Ashtabula County Technical and Career Center Board of Education and its staff are dedicated to providing equal opportunities and equal employment opportunities without regard to sex, race, color, creed, national origin, religion, age, pregnancy, handicap or disability.

8A • GAZETTE NEWSPAPERS

THURSDAY, JANUARY 5, 2012

Lights of Love 2011 In honor of Carol Chandler - Mary Kaye Callahan In memory of Amy Karhu - Mary Kaye Callahan In memory of Jeff White - Mary Kaye Callahan In memory of Patrick White - Mary Kaye Callahan In memory of Ronnie Williams - Kathy Temple In memory of Imelda Novinski - Kathy Temple In memory of Edward Fiala - Elsie Fiala In memory of Leonard Roscinski - Shirley Roscinski & Family In memory of Jeanette & Ellsworth Marteeny - Hazel Phillips & Family In memory of William H. Phillips - Hazel Phillips & Girls In memory of Sharon Lacy - Alice Marthaller In memory of Charles Rose, Sr. - Ronald Rose In memory of Bertha Vignal - Ronald Rose In memory of Mal Warren - Ronald Rose In memory of Marie Sabo - Ronald Rose In memory of D2 - Megan, Kelsey, & Matt Munson In memory of Robert Arndt - Cyndy Arndt In memory of Lois Lebzelter - Jeff Lebzelter In memory of Donald Campbell - Joan Campbell In memory of Ronald Gonda - Fran Gonda In memory of Ronald Gonda - Family of Ronald In memory of Bernard Stanley Wincik, Sr. - Marian Wincik In memory of Ferdinand & Bertha Urban - Marian Wincik In memory of Michael Beals - Grandparents Harry & Martha In memory of William & Naomi Bogan - Kathleen Wright In memory of Roy & Mary Wright - Bill & Linda Harkabus In memory of Roy & Mary Wright - John & Barb Wright In memory of Roy & Mary Wright - Tom & Kathy Wright In memory of Alberta “Sue” Siders - Children, Grandchildren, & Great-Grandchildren In memory of Fran Blickensderfer - Chris & Paula Siders & Boys In memory of My Dad, John D. Stump - Loretta In memory of My Husband, Larry Tratar - Loretta In memory of Jeff Stump - Loretta In memory of Herb Waters - Waters Catering

In memory of Herb Waters - Waters Catering In memory of Anthony V. Colby - Wife, Josephine Colby In memory of Hank & CeCe Poore - Your Family In memory of Milt & Charlotte Rudler - Your Family In memory of Bob Osborn - Jeanne In memory of Russell Goodiel - Your Family In memory of Ann Goodiel - Your Family In memory of Sherry Sawdy - Jeanne In memory of Son & Father, Mikey Lemmo - Mike, Pam, & McKenzie Lemmo In memory of Shelva Craig - Marian In memory of Fred Kercher - Carol Kercher In honor of Marijane Pettijohn - Nancy Rung In memory of Shelby Girl - Nancy Rung In memory of Robert W. Hensel - Katelyn French In memory of Walter Thayer - Bunny Thayer In memory of Cecil Thayer - Bunny Thayer In memory of Michael Joseph Jury - Kevin Jury/Lori Jury In memory of Nancy Heasley - Angel Rodgers In memory of Alec Moorhead - Jeanne Moorehead In memory of Marvin & Esther Kreiling - Dave & Sherri Kreiling In memory of Juanita & Ervin Hinebaugh - Dave & Sherri Kreiling In memory of Nellie Schlaich - Dave & Sherri Kreiling In memory of Pauline & Shorty Taylor - Dave & Sherri Kreiling In memory of Roxy Kreiling - Kathy Wright In memory of Trouble Wright - Kathy Wright In memory of Kiff Wright - Kathy Wright In memory of Harold Fredrickson - Kathy Wright In memory of Dawn Kelly - Kathy Wright In memory of Jeff Weise - Kathy Wright In memory of Edwin Sr. & Mary Kamppi - Lisa Stiles In memory of Joseph Gerics - Lisa Stiles In honor of Justice Beckett - Louann Beckett In honor of Jesse Beckett - Louann Beckett In memory of Bette Meola - Anthony Meola, Sr. In memory of Doc (Mark) Meola - Grandchildren In memory of Bob & Elna Roach - The Family In memory of Roach Family - The Family In memory of Anthony & Santa Rapose - Patty & Paul Palagyi & Ranae Palagyi In memory of Joseph & Pauline Palagyi - Patty & Paul Palagyi & Ranae Palagyi In memory of Sue Simpson - Lori Simpson In memory of Sue Simpson - Larry Simpson In memory of Sue Simpson - The Brecht Family In memory of Charles & Jennie Bortz - The Brecht Family In memory of Janice Kalil - The Brecht Family In memory of Robert Maier - Katie Maier In memory of Lucy M. Tuttle - Marjorie Williams In memory of Helen L. Williams - Marjorie Williams In memory of Janey Schultz - Lindsay Burlingham In memory of Grandma Helfinstine - Nikos Burlingham, Sr. In memory of Morgan Benjamin - Amber Rose In memory of Matthew DiBease - Amber Rose In memory of Maurice Simons - Michael Simons In memory of Arloiene Simons - Michael Simons In memory of Richard Simons - Michael Simons In memory of Louise Bartone - Nichole Colby In memory of Anthony Colby - Nichole Colby In memory of Anthony Rossetti - Nick Rossetti In memory of Rodney Luta - Cindy Lower In memory of Lillian Luta - Cindy Lower In memory of Edward Luta, Jr. - Cindy Lower In memory of Frank Lower - Jerry Lower In memory of Larry Lower, Sr. - Jerry Lower In memory of Jeffrey Stump - Christi Lower In memory of Chase Cummings - Rob & Rayah Spencer

Lights of Love Top Seller

HEALTH should be unaffected.

The department’s two directors of nursing, Jodi Slayton, R.N., and Louise Cleveland, R.N., are flexible.

Blood pressure screenings are done Mondays and Wednesdays.

Immunizations are offered all day Tuesdays and Thursdays.

Children’s physicals are by appointment only 1 to 4:30

SUBMITTED PHOTO

Gavin Nesbitt, a Lakeshore Primary School preschool student, received a $50 U.S. savings bond from Stacy Aunger, Conneaut Key Bank Branch Manager, after selling the most Lights of Love ornaments at his school this year. Lights of Love is a fund-raiser for the Conneaut Area Chamber of Commerce in which “lights” are sold for $5 in honor or memory of a loved one.

The lights illuminate the tree at downtown Conneaut Savings Bank throughout the holiday season. Students help sell lights each year, and the top seller is rewarded with a savings bond donated by Key Bank. Gavin is the son of Eric and Stephanie Nesbitt.

In memory of Andrew Crofoot - Rob & Rayah Spencer In memory of Vincent Crofoot - Rob & Rayah Spencer In memory of James & Pansy Facello - Teresa Facello & Tom In memory of Thomas J. Edwards, Sr. - Scott, Michelle, Scotty, & A.J. Edwards In memory of Bette Rae Edwards - Scott, Michelle, Scotty, & A.J. Edwards In memory of Leo & Barbara Dahlkemper - Michelle Edwards In memory of Grandma & Grandpa Edwards - Scotty & A.J. Edwards In memory of Art & Zona Weeston - Randy & Wilma Weeston In memory of Eli E. English - Randy & Wilma Weeston In memory of Geraldine & Robert Maray - Kori Zappitelli In memory of Lucille Campbell - Jane Michiels In memory of Glenn M. Benedict - The Downing Family In memory of Donne Benedict - The Downing Family In memory of Nevaeh Grace Dudas - Ken Vorse In memory of Wayne Palmer - Kris Palmer In memory of Scott “EZ” Barnes - Nate, LeAnna, & Pam In memory of Chad Keenan - Nate, LeAnna, & Boys In memory of Doug Abbey - Mary Lou & Family In memory of Grandpa Abbey - Rex & Laci In memory of Russell Merlene - Linda, Sonny, Brian, Tracy, Cale, Chase, Brett, Julie, Landon, Sarah, Jillian, & Erik In memory of Russell Merlene - Wife, Penny Merlene & Family In memory of Wallace Heinonen - Sonny, Linda, Brian, Tracy, Cale, Chase, Brett, Julie, Landon, Sarah, Jillian, & Erik In memory of Bob & Lois Shumake - Jerry, Susan, Eric, Jodie, Lilly, & Joey In memory of Margaret Palagyi - Jerry, Susan, Eric, Jodie, Lilly, & Joey In honor of Michael Palagyi - Jerry, Susan, Eric, Jodie, Lilly, & Joey In memory of Rose & Mike Best - Darwin Gurto In memory of James Todaro - Arnesta Todaro In memory of James Winteringham - Darwin Gurto In memory of James Todaro - Julie Griswold In memory of Michael Petz - Your Family In memory of Elizabeth Petz - Your Family In memory of Clem Gestwicki - Daniel Gestwicki & Family In memory of Charles & JoAnn Beaver - Charles & Eloise Beaver In memory of Charles & JoAnn Beaver - Dominic & Mary Palmer In memory of Howard C. Dolak, III - Debbie, Howard, & Tisha Dolak In memory of Patricia Brozell - Tisha Dolak & Family In memory of Parents Stephen & Helen Colucci - Angie & Larry Moore & Family In memory of Parents Edgar & Myrtle Moore - Angie & Larry Moore & Family In memory of David Lawrence - Iola & Family In memory of Arlo & Marian Lawrence - Iola & Family In memory of Olive McDonald - Iola & Family In memory of Angelo & Gaetanina Reo & Paul Reo - Anna Marie Reo In memory of Angelo & Gaetanina Reo & Paul Reo Oakey, Carmela, Joe, & Ashley Emery In memory of David Sharp - The Griswold Family In memory of Loved Ones - Darlene Meaney In memory of Sam & Bev Simone - Lynda Worley & Karen, Kellie, Laura, & Families In memory of R.J. Yesso - Lynda Worley & Karen, Kellie, Laura, & Families

From page 1A p.m. Tuesdays. Call the Health Department at 593-3087.

Because Health Department hours have been cut, all staff members have taken a pay cut, including Health Commissioner Sally Kennedy.

Kennedy said her department will monitor public reaction to the new hours.

“We will evaluate their impact,” she said.

Conneaut Health Department Co-Director of Nursing Jodi Slayton, R.N. (left) takes a blood pressure reading of Health Department Clerk Dolly Sherman. Both women’s hours have been reduced.

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THURSDAY, JANUARY 5, 2012

GAZETTE NEWSPAPERS • 9A

Hit-Skip Lands Drunk Driver Disorderly Conduct Costly To in Jail Before New Year’s Eve Disruptive Males

By MARTHA SOROHAN Gazette Newspapers CONNEAUT - The year 2011 ended on a sour note for a local driver involved in a hit-skip crash early

Saturday morning on Harbor Street.

Officers were notified 12:38 a.m. Dec. 31 of an accident, with possible injury, in the 800 block of Harbor Street. En route,

Site Solver Guess the location

PHOTO BY MARTHA SOROHAN

Do you know the interior location of this Site Solver?

Be the first to call its location to The Courier (440) 5769125, ext. 116, starting 5 p.m. Jan. 5, and you will win an oil change (cars only) from Osburn Tire & Automotive, 4804 Caleb Ave., Kelloggsville. (Please note that Site Solver responses are not considered before 5 p.m.)

Last week’s Site Solver was the piano inside the Conneaut Pizza & Sub Shop on Broad Street. Winner was Linda Lynch.

they learned the suspect vehicle, a white SUV, had fled the scene southbound on Harbor.

Another office on another call in the vicinity radioed that he had spotted a white SUV southbound on Harbor, in the area of 16th St., strike the barrier on Harbor Street.

When the first officer arrived there, he saw a white SUV traveling from Harbor Street, west on 16th St., with heavy frontend damage. Officers activated emergency lights and blocked 16th Street from Broad Street, then noticed that the vehicle was stationary.

As one officer began to exit his marked unit to talk with the driver, the driver began driving directly toward the cruiser.

The officer was able to jump back into the cruiser and remove it from the path of the SUV as the SUV continued past the unit and turned south onto Broad Street.

The officer then positioned his unit behind the suspect vehicle, but the driver failed to stop by the emergency lights. As the officer notified dispatch of what was happening, including the vehicle’s status and direction of travel, the suspect made an extremely wide right turn, west onto Depot Street,

nearly striking the street sign and driving over the sidewalk into the yard of the southwest corner house at Broad and Depot Streets.

The suspect continued west on Depot, ignoring the emergency lights, and then making a wide lefthand turn south onto Buffalo Street, this time nearly striking a tree.

Only after the officer was able to position his cruiser on the driver’s side of the suspect vehicle, essentially pinning the suspect between the tree, another parked car and his cruiser, did the suspect finally stop.

Though the officer issued several commands to the driver, seated solo in the vehicle, the man appeared incoherent and made no attempts to cooperate. When the officer opened the driver ’s side door, he was overpowered with the odor of an alcoholic beverage emanating from the person. Identified as Fernando F. Lopez, he had bloodshot and glossy eyes, and, during later questioning, was unable to recall the events that led to his being in police custody.

He was transported to UH-Conneaut Medical Center for a blood draw, then transported to Conneaut City Jail.

by MARTHA SOROHAN Gazette Newspapers

area, and wondering if he would be struck again, the lone officer unholstered his CONNEAUT - A fight in M26 Taser and trained it on progress sent officers to two male subjects who ig176 Hayward Avenue at nored his commands and 10:45 p.m. Dec. 31, and led continued to fight.

The officer warned them to the citation of several men on disorderly conduct that he would deploy his taser, training it on a black charges.

Police called to a Hay- male, identified as Grant ward Avenue fight involv- Reynolds, who had placed ing “several people” arrived Eric Sigley in a head lock to find six to eight male and struck him several subjects standing in the more times. roadway, yelling at one anFearful that one or both other. Upon spotting police, of the subjects would rethey took off running into ceive serious bodily harm if the yard north of the the fight continued, the ofofficer ’s location, yelling, ficer issued a few more “The police are here!” commands, then deployed When exiting his patrol the taser as the men concar, the officer noticed tinued to disregard them. about 30 people yelling and The parties then comseveral males involved in a plied and were handcuffed fight. They refused to stop for everyone’s safety. fighting when police orIt was later determined, dered them to do so, so po- according to police reports, lice grabbed one of them, that Reynolds and Sigley later identified as Corey had been involved in a fist Sigley, and pulled him off a fight and Cory Sigley had black male. tried to break it up. None As he did so, the officer of those involved claimed to was struck in the face by have been aware that the another male who was still officer had been assaulted. fighting.

Sigley and Reynolds Not knowing if the were issued citations for strike was intentional, and disorderly conduct by fightdue to the high number of ing, and released from the intoxicated people in the scene.

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10A • GAZETTE NEWSPAPERS

THURSDAY, JANUARY 5, 2012

Courier Year in Review: Jan - March, 2011 Weigh Station Back in Business

The new year brought a new outlook in terms of city finances with the Jan. 3 ribbon-cutting at the remodeled I90 Weigh Station in the westbound lanes of I-90, with computer-monitored “weigh-in-motion” scales which send trucks weighing more than 80,000 pounds to the next “static scale.” Truck drivers found to weigh more than 1,000 pounds over the limit are cited. They may not leave the area without resolving the overload issue and paying the fine to the Conneaut Municipal Court. During the Weigh Station’s 40month closing, the city lost about $40,000 in overload fines, according to Finance Director John Williams. Conneaut boasts the state’s only upper-level weigh station design. It is run by the Ohio Highway Patrol. In the photo taken last January, City Council President Tom Udell (center) cuts the red ribbon at the Weigh Station.

Council Okays Schaumleffel’s Severance Package

Lori McLaughlin Named 2010 Citizen of the Year

Debbie Newcomb Hired to Head CHRC About two months after Ed Somppi announced he was retiring from his 18-month position as Executive Director of the Conneaut Human Resources Center, the CHRC board hired Debbie Newcomb, who had lost her bid for re-election to the Ohio House in November. Somppi said he wanted the freedom to enjoy life with his wife, Luann, who retired in 2011 as administrative assistant to the Conneaut Police Chief. Newcomb’s grant-writing expertise, along with her substantial managerial and budgeting skills, helped land her the part-time position. Her interest in senior citizens — she was a nine-year member of the Ashtabula County Senior Services Levy Advisory Board — also prompted her to apply for the job. She was formally introduced to the CHRC staff on March 17.

Twenty-Three Apply for City Manager’s Job City Council opened up the search for a new city manCalling herself an “ordinary person,” Lori McLaughlin was named Conneaut Area Chamber of Commerce 2010 ager in late January and within a few weeks, received apCitizen of the Year Feb. 8 at the Chamber’s annual dinner plications from 23 hopefuls — including local applicants at the Conneaut Community Center for the Arts. A former Terry Mosio, Jr., Bill Kennedy, Dan Allds and John Ericksen. factory and retail worker, McLaughlin became involved in civic committees, enrolled in Ashtabula County Nothing Beats a Pizza Competition LEADERship and eventually went back to school following a serious auto accident in 1991 that left her wheelchair-bound for three months and unable to continue working in retail. McLaughlin remains involved in local and county causes, most notably chairing for the past 15 months the local D-Day Re-enactment Committee that led to her election to the D Day Ohio, Inc., board, which oversees Conneaut’s premiere tourist event.

Pizza Hut Coming To Conneaut

The saga of former City Manager Robert Schaumleffel officially ended Jan. 3, when City Council approved a $32,859.71 severance package to bring to a close his stormy two-year tenure. Council had tried initially to terminate Schaumleffel’s contract in April, 2010, but it was eight more months before the parties parted ways. Councilman Charlie Lewis was unhappy that Law Director David Schroeder was on vacation Jan. 3, and unable to answer his questions about the package. Councilman Dave Campbell also had misgivings, since Schaumleffel remained eligible for unemployment compensation. The package covered three months of Schaumleffel’s wages, car allowance, health insurance and a portion of vacation pay.

Planning/Zoning Manager Luciana Raterman Gone When 2010 City Council voted on the recommendation of the Finance & Ordinance Committee to reduce the Planning/Zoning Manager’s position from full- to part-time, Luciana Raterman said good-bye Dec. 31 after serving for nearly four years. She left so quietly that until Councilmen questioned it, no one knew her office was vacant. The City did not immediately replace her because of a proposed plan at the county level to hire Raterman as a part-time liaison to Conneaut and other communities. The city could then rehire her part-time. But the plan failed to materialize. Deanna Gates was hired to replace Raterman a few months later. The city had budgeted in 2011 $30,000 for two part-time P&Z managers.

Carly Prather Joins City Law Department

In a not-so-good year for the Conneaut Planning Commission, its announcement at the Feb. 9 City Council meeting that Pizza Hut had been given a green light to build a “Pizza to Go” restaurant at the southeast corner of Main and Mill Streets was cause for rejoining. Offering specialty pizza, pasta and wings, the restaurant opened in early summer.

Charter Review Committee Off and Running in February

JD’S Pizza family members Laurie Janek (left), owner Michael Morgan, and Morgan’s sons, Moses (front) and Noah were all smiles after learning their pizza was chosen “Best of Conneaut” by judges Tom Udell, Phil Garcia and Debbie Newcomb at the Conneaut Music Boosters’ first Pizza Competition on March 20. People’s Choice winner was Anthony’s Pizza. The event is expected to be repeated this year.

Reimbursed at Last: Campbell Paid for Legal Expenses Incurred by City Lawsuit

Per a City Charter that calls for seven-year reviews, the City Council-appointed Charter Review Committee held its first meeting Feb. 17 and scheduled bi-monthly meetings in order to wrap up its work by June 30 so any charter changes could be certified by mid-Augut for the November ballot. Chaired by Deborah Newcomb and co-chaired by Dick Showalter, the committee was comprised of Mike Bambarger, Marty Landon, Pat Williams, Susan Allshouse and Dave LeVesque. Allshouse replaced original member Mike Sherman, who resigned due to “time constraints” after the first meeting, where he suggested reverting to an elected mayor form of government because the current method is “dysfunctional.”

Post Card Water Bills Return In yet another move to revert to “pre-Schaumleffel” practices, Conneaut City Council on March 14 unanimously agreed to go back to billing city water customers via post card. The former City Manager had recommended the city move from billing water customers via post cards to business-size letterhead, saying the move was more professional and that the bills would have room to convey city information to residents. The city saves $15,000 annually by using the post card method after an initial $850 software program purchase. Williams said a machine purchased to fold the paper bills, on which it was paying $1,000 annual maintenance fee, could be used in another department. Williams said water billing department employees as well as consumers preferred the post card bills.

Two Significant Resignations at CBOE The city hired one of its own when Carly Prather accepted the Assistant Law Director’s position in January.

Prather had clerked in the office of former Assistant Law Director Luke Gallagher in the summer of 2009 and was interested when she heard Gallagher was leaving to return to full-time private practice. Born in Erie, Pa., and a graduate of Ohio Northern College of Law, the daughter of Rick and Cindy Prather describes City Law Director David Schroeder as a “good mentor and teacher.”

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First it was Conneaut High School varsity football coach Ken Parise, and then Conneaut Area City Schools Treasurer Mary Gillespie who resigned their positions about two weeks apart last winter.

Unlike Gillespie’s resignation, submitted after 14 months on the job so that she could become treasurer of the Ashtabula County Educational Service Center, Parise’s was unplanned, and left the door open for the school district to hire a new coach in hopes of building a winning team.

Raisian Family Funeral Home

Conneaut City Council on March 31 approved a $2,797.80 reimbursement in legal fees for Councilman Dave Campbell (left) after he was sued by former Public Works Director Bob Howland in late 2009. Howland had sued Campbell for the name of a Public Works employee who sent an e-mail questioning Howland’s decision to use an outside firm to install a Keefus Road guard rail where a car had gone off the road. Council originally denied Campbell’s reimbursement request, saying he had gone against advice of former Law Director Lori Lamer by not providing the name to Howland. Campbell claimed doing so would be a breach of confidence, Lamer’s replacement, Dave Schroeder, and a different City Council helped Campbell resolve the matter, even though Campbell had signed a paper releasing the city insurance company and the City of Conneaut “from all claims arising out of the public records request or the litigation.” Shown with Campbell in picture above is Ward 2 Councilman Charlie Lewis.

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