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THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 21, 2013

VOL. 22 NO. 8

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“The Second Year Will Be Better,” LaECI, CCA Promise Cause of Crawford Container Fire Remains Undetermined

by MARTHA SOROHAN Gazette Newspapers CONNEAUT - Conneaut Fire Capt. Steve Sanford said Tuesday that the official cause of the Feb. 11 fire at Crawford Container on W. Jackson Street remains undetermined.

The fire, called in shortly after 6:30 p.m., did $100,000 damage to the empty warehouse-sized building.

“The estimate is $100,000 because it was empty,” Sanford said. “And it was just an estimate. Obviously, the insurance amount will come in differently — if it was insured. That’s not known.”

Sanford could not confirm a report that about three hours before the fire broke out, a man had entered a nearby business to inquire about the building. Nor could he confirm having heard rumors among middle and high school students that the empty structure had been the site of a meth lab.

Sanford was to speak to the state fire marshall leading the investigation later Tuesday, but did not expect any conclusions regarding the cause of the sevenalarm fire.

“I haven’t heard of any new leads,” he said.

Sanford said after returning to the scene for seven hours Tuesday, Feb. 12, firefighters left the scene around 3 p.m. after dousing some hot spots.

“A few more areas [of fire] had flared up but there was no more harm to anything,” he said.

Sanford said property owner Ed Crawford will be responsible for cleaning up the site.

It was the second suspicious blaze at the location in 10 months. A May, 2012, fire believed to be arson caused $10,000 in damages.

Meanwhile, Sanford said no damage to residents or property occurred early Monday afternoon after a water line broke in the sprinkler system at Lake Pointe Rehabilitation & Nursing Center on Parrish Road.

An exterior water line had frozen and burst, he said. It set off the alarm that water was moving in the system and automatically alerted the Conneaut Fire Department.

Firefighters received the call at 1 p.m.

Sanford said that the broken line occurred in the sprinkler system’s inspection site.

“It wasn’t the sprinkler head, but the piping for the system on the outside of the building where they do the annual inspection,” he said. “The water didn’t ruin anything. It was compartmentalized to an area outside the building.”

by MARTHA SOROHAN Gazette Newspapers CONNEAUT - Lake Erie Correctional Institution Barry Goodrich told members of the city’s Public Safety Committee on Feb. 13 that with a full year of new prison ownership under its belt, the Correctional Corporation of America (CCA) sees a brighter future for the prison in 2013.

“We want to be a strong community partner,” he said. “The first year has been rough, and we know we can do better.”

Making his first appearance before a City Council committee after numerous last-minute cancellations last year, Goodrich was accompanied by four other CCA corporate staff and one Ohio Department of Corrections and Rehabilitation (OCRC) employee. Other CCA staff and an Ohio Highway Patrol member were in the audience to support Goodrich’s assertion that the prison is on solid footing and an asset to the community.

Public Safety Committee chair Tom Kozesky invited Goodrich to attend because of concerns with incidents of “contraband-tossing” over the north fence of LaECI, near the Norfolk-Southern railroad tracks, in late December and early January. These incidents, non-existent when MTC managed the prison for 12 years, led to the arrest and conviction of ten Cleveland and Youngstown residents in Conneaut Municipal Court.

Goodrich began by reading upbeat statistics contained within a Power Point presentation about the Nashville, Tenn.-based CCA, which owns 46 and operates 14 additional correctional facilities in 21 states and Washington, D.C.

PHOTO BY MARTHA SOROHAN

Steve Owen, Director of Marketing for Corrections Corporation of America (CCA), tells members of the Public Safety Committee on Feb. 13 that he wants it on record that he is proud that since CCA purchased it from the state in Jan., 2012, Lake Erie Correctional Institution is providing the city with a new source of revenue as a tax-paying, private business. Other CCA officials seated are (from left), Kelly Durham, Ben Shuster, (Owen), Daren Swenson, CCA vice president of operations. At right is Todd Ishee, of Ohio Department of Rehabilitation & Corrections. Out of camera range is LaECI Warden Barry Goodrich.

“We are saving Ohio taxpayers $3,000,000 annually,” Goodrich said, referring to the state’s only prison sale to a private entity.

Since CCA took ownership Dec. 31, 2012, the medium-security LaECI has housed Level 1 and Level 2 male inmates. Its population increased from 1,500 to 1,800, with half of the inmates from Cleveland or Cuyahoga County.

The average inmate age is 29, the average inmate sentence is 4.28 years, and the average prison stay is 2.79 years. Annual inmate turnover rate is 50 percent. Goodrich said that about 16.8 percent of inmates are affiliated with gangs or pose a security threat. Inmates openly involved in such activity are placed in segregation and transferred to another facility.

Kings and Queens of Hearts

PHOTO BY MARTHA SOROHAN

Four members of the Seniors Together Program at the Conneaut Human Resources Center reigned over Valentines Day festivities on Feb. 14. Elected Valentine king and queen by CHRC staff were (from left) Queen Fran Rought, Kings Cosmo Coccitto and Yash Wojtowicz and Queen Margaret Burnham. Seniors Together Director Marilyn Telega said there were four members of royalty, rather than two, due to tie votes. Read more about the festivities on page A4.

Goodrich said that prison programs in education, behavior/conduct and work environment are used state-wide, including CCA’s other Ohio prison in the center of the state.

Goodrich defended the number of internal prison incidents last year, saying that just seven calls were placed to 9-1-1, including medical issues. When questioned about reporting the information to the city, he said that the information is sent to authorities who need it.

Goodrich also explained that inmates whose behavior inside the prison is disruptive may be reclassified as Level III inmates, segregated, and transferred to other prisons.

“There are no Level III or IV inmates in the general population,” he said.

In the past year, he said that CCA has increased and upgraded security cameras to reduce blind spots, prevent incidents and enhance investigations; increased intelligence gathering; and added fences and protocols to control movement within the facility, including a second perimeter fence.

He said that staff members have had over 160 hours of on-thejob training, exceeding state requirements. Response teams have had more than 80 hours of training.

Turning to the topic of audits, Goodrich acknowledged that LaECI has been weak during 2012, but blamed some results on unfamiliarity with State of Ohio audits.

“The State of Ohio Audit from September 18 to 20 was a good learning experience,” he said. “We learned how Ohio does audits. We

See PRISON page 4A

GAZETTE NEWSPAPERS • WEEK OF WEDNESDAY, FEBRUARY 20, 2013 • 2A

TOWN TALK The annual “Best of Conneaut” contest featuring 50 categories runs March 1 to 31 on Katie Schwartz’ web site, everythingconneautohio .com. The Courier won as the city’s best news source in 2011, then lost by two votes to “AM Live!” last year. (A second recognition would be nice.) Schwartz’ newly redesigned web site features comprehensive information, including weather, social media integration and videos. “Technology is constantly evolving, and we decided to embrace that,” Schwartz said. Her goal is to connect on a greater level with local business owners and the community in 2013.

Independent photographer William A. West, whose pictures have run in The Courier, was ranked 15th in the 2012 point standings of the Ohio News Photographers Association.

The rankings include 12 months of work, with several first, second, third and fourth place pictures in news features and sports. West lives in North Kingsville.

United Way of Ashtabula County is looking for “Community Investment volunteers” for the 2013 United Way funds disbursement. A group of 50 to 60 people from across the county is needed to visit United Way agencies and

determine the validity of 2013 grant requests. If interested, call the United Way 998-4141.

Cleveland. Visit the web site www.malleys.com/conneautlions-club for details. Purchases made on that web site will benefit the Conneaut Steve Owen, Senior Di- Lions Club. Those without rector of Public Affairs for Internet access may visit the Corrections Corporation of Conneaut Public Library.

America, says that the Lake Staff members will be happy Erie Correctional to assist you on the computInstitution’s Recycling ers. The Lions Club supports Round-Up will return to eyesight-related causes and Conneaut in June. The popu- Conneaut Safety Town. lar Recycling Round-Ups, held at Good Shepherd Off to the Oscars in HolLutheran Church, were on lywood again this year, hiatus in 2012.

Conneaut Telelphone’s Ken Johnson has offered an “OsConneaut Area Chamber cars Challenge” to the meof Commerce is accepting reg- dia, inviting them to send istrations for its annual Busi- Oscar predictions to him. ness Expo 3 to 6 p.m. Tues- Johnson says he may have day, April 30, at the Conneaut to come up with prizes for Human Resources Center. the winner and runner-up.

Booths are open to Chamber and non-Chamber members A big “welcome back” to alike. Radio, newspaper and Vickie Marcy, who has relocal cable access advertising sumed writing new “At is included for participating Home With Vickie Marcy” businesses. Call the Chamber columns in the “common” at 593-2402. section of this newspaper, following a break during the The siren that went off at deaths of her mother and Lake Erie Correctional brother last year.

Institution about 1:30 a.m.

Sunday morning was caused The Ashtabula County by a short, not a prison inci- Basketball Foundation dent, according to prison annual dinner at the spokesman Scott Fisher. The Conneaut Human Resources Center is Sunday, April 7. siren has been fixed.

Cable Civic Meetings Schedule Feb. 19- 26, 2013

7.00 am AM Live 10.00 am Conneaut Chamber of Commerce Annual Dinner 11.30 am Hometown Happenings/ Sports 12.00 pm CHS Boys Basketball vs. James Rhodes 1.35 pm Conneaut Library Line 2.00 pm Life Is Better In Conneaut 2.20 pm CHS Halftime Collage 4.20 pm CHS Wrestling vs Chardon 5.45 pm How It Is Drawn with Will Callaghan 6.05 pm Identity Theft Presentation 6.40 pm Singing In the Kitchen 7.40 pm City Rec. League Basketball Camp 7.55 pm CHS Halftime Collage 8.05 pm Conneaut Business Expo 9.00 pm Hometown Happenings/ Sports 9.40 pm Conneaut Library Line 10.00 pm CAC Dance: “Alice” 11.00 pm CHS Boys Basketball vs. James Rhodes 12.30 am Conneaut City Council Mt. Conneaut Food Pantry Worry no more about how 1.25 am Discover to fill Easter baskets next Director Renea Roach will Conneaut month. The Conneaut Li- be honored Monday night as 1.30 am FFC Truth #34 ons Club is sponsoring an Senior Citizen of the Month Easter candy sale with at Conneaut City Council.

Religious Services: Malley’s Chocolates, of St. Mary St. Frances Cabrini: Sun & Wed 3pm / Mon & Thurs 1am First Congregational UCC: Sun & Wed 4pm / Mon for fixing streets in you place in the role of tour- & Thurs 2am New Leaf United MethConneaut? ism in the future of our city’s odist: Sun & Wed 5pm / Mon 11. How many years economic development? would you support a street 14. Should parking on the & Thurs 3am Good Shepherd levy? front yard lawn be allowed Lutheran: Sun & Wed 6pm 12. If you answered “no” between the front property to #9, select a choice of spe- line and the front of the / Mon & Thurs 4am Family Fellowship: cial assessment (owner pays house, excluding the tree Mon. and Thurs. 2.30pm for maintenance), further lawn area?

Conneaut Church of reduced services, or “other” 15. Rank in order of imGod: Mon. and Thurs (with space for comment).

See SURVEY page 6A 3.20pm 13. What importance do

Did You Fill Out the City Survey?

by MARTHA SOROHAN Gazette Newspapers CONNEAUT - City Manager Tim Eggleston had no comment Tuesday when asked about the response rate to the city survey that popped up on the city’s web site on Feb. 13, but he said it would be coming off on Feb. 20.

The survey was designed by city administrators to seek citizen input in moving the city forward, Eggleston said.

Here are the questions: 1. Are you a City of Conneaut resident?

2. Rank service in order of importance: Public Works, Police, Emergency, Municipal Court, Health Department, Economic Development, Code Enforcement, Zoning Enforcement 3. Should Conneaut consider contracting out services if it would reduce costs?

4. Should the city look at consolidating services with other governmental units?

5. How important is the cleanliness of the city of Conneaut to you? (Rank 1 to 5).

6. Should the city continue to investigate a single trash-hauler system?

7. Should the city mandate recycling to meet County Recycling Plan goals to reduce the amount of trash that goes into the landfill?

8. Do you recycle?

9. How often do you recycle?

10. Would you support a 2.75-mill street levy to pay

Firefighters Respond to MVAs

Conneaut Port Authority, 7 p.m. Feb. 21 at Port Authority Office, 929 Broad Street Conneaut City Council, televised, 7 p.m. Feb. 25 Cable Advisory Board, 5:30 p.m. Feb. 27 Conneaut Recreation Board, 6 p.m. Feb. 27 Finance & Ordinance Committee, 6 p.m. March 4 Public Works Committee, 7 p.m. March 4 Monroe Township Trustees 7:30 p.m. Feb. 26 at Township Garage, 5578 S. Monroe Center Road Kingsville Township Trustees, 7 p.m. Feb. 27 at Fire Hall, 3130 Main Street

Senior Calendar GSLC Seniors - Good Shepherd Lutheran Church, Grove Street at Lake Road.

9:45 blood pressure, 10 a.m. program. Noon lunch.

Ages 50 and up. Bring a friend.

Feb. 21 - “Be the Judge” with visit from Conneaut Municipal Court Judge Tom Harris Wassie, Ashtabula County Nursing Home CHRC Seniors ToFeb. 22 - Cherry dessert gether - Conneaut Human in honor of George Resources Center, 327 Mill Washington’s birthday Street. Senior Soles walkers Feb. 26 - South Ridge 7:30 to 10:30 a.m. Seniors Christian Academy students Room opens 8:30 a.m. ProFeb. 27 - Monthly birthgram 10:30 a.m., lunch 11:30 day party at noon a.m. games noon to 1 p.m.

Feb. 28 - Kelly from OSU Feb. 21 - Bingo with April Extension

Man “Flips Off” Fans, Cited at CHS Game

by MARTHA SOROHAN Gazette Newspapers

calm down. When one of them, identified as Tingler, shouted an obscenity at the CONNEAUT - Officers officer, the officer told him he performing security detail at was to be escorted out of the the Feb. 15 varsity basketball gym. As Tingler was being game at Conneaut High escorted toward the exit, he School cited Randall L. — in the presence of the enTingler for disorderly conduct. tire gym with small children According to police re- and other students in the ports, an incident occurred area — raised his hand and at 8:30p.m., during the “flipped off” the other side of game’s fourth quarter. The the gymnasium.

Tingler was told he would report said that a section of fans at the west end of the be cited and was escorted to visitors’ section were the police cruiser.

Once outside, Tingler was screaming, causing one of the referees to turn and say cooperative and apologetic something in their direction. as he was being cited. He This brought more scream- was told he was no longer ing from a number of indi- allowed on school property and would be thus advised viduals in the section.

One Conneaut officer by school faculty. He said he walked toward the section of understood, and cleared the fans and advised them to scene.

Chamber Seeks “Basket” Donations CONNEAUT - Conneaut Area Chamber of Commerce is seeking donations for a gift basket to be raffled at the Ashtabula County Medical Center Foundation’s “Diamonds and Denim” event 7 to 11 p.m. March 2 at the Geneva Lodge. Chambers of Commerce from throughout Ashtabula County are competing to see whose basket receives the highest bid of the evening.

The winning Chamber will receive “Diamond Pocket” plaque. The event includes a champagne reception, gourmet dinner stations and cocktails, live entertainment with dancing, and silent and live auctions.

Proceeds help fund summer internships for 10 Ashtabula County high school students to attend the ACMC Summer Academy, which provides experience for those pursuing careers in health care.

To donate, or for more information, contact Chamber Director Wendy DuBey at 593-2402.

PHOTO BY JORDAN WISER

Firefighters from Station #1, squad 219 and Engine 211, along with three Conneaut police officers, responded to two motor vehicle accidents over the weekend.

Above, they tended to a two-car motor vehicle accident, without injuries, at 502 W. Main Road at 3:30 p.m. Sunday. Heavy damage was reported to both vehicles.

Firefighters assessed both, including one rear-ended by a Jeep, to insure no gas leaks. Conneaut officers and firefighters also responded to a vehicle fire on I-90 at 3:44 a.m. Feb. 16. The driver of a westbound vehicle reported that the headlights of a vehicle behind him were shining so strongly into his mirror that he moved into the driving lane, but as he moved, the other vehicle did, too. He then lost control of his vehicle and struck the barrier wall west of the rest area. After coming to a stop, he and his passengers exited the vehicle because it began smoking. Soon afterward, it started on fire. He and his passengers moved away from the vehicle until police and Fire Station 1 personnel arrived on the scene. The interstate westbound lanes were shut down for about 30 minutes. No one was injured.

Men’s, Co-Ed Softball Sign-Ups Underway Sign-ups for the Conneaut Recreation Board Men’s and Co-ed Softball League is underway. League games will be played at Lakeview Park ball field.

Teams that sign up and register before April 1 receive a discount on fees. Before April 1, cost is $500 for men’s teams and $400 for co-ed teams. After April 1, fees jump to $650 for men and $550 for co-ed. Anyone interested in managing a team or signing up may contact Jason Picard at 440-969-4866.

GAZETTE NEWSPAPERS • WEEK OF WEDNESDAY, FEBRUARY 20, 2013 • 3A

D-Day Committee Needs Pop-Up Canopies, Tin Cans

by PATRICIA ROWBOTHAM Gazette Newspapers CONNEAUT - The local D-Day Committee is seeking pop-up canopies and 500 empty one-pound cans for the 13th annual D-Day Event Aug. 16 and 17 at Township Park.

Chair Lori McLaughlin announced these needs at the monthly D-Day Committee meeting 9 a.m. Feb. 9 at the American Legion. Also in attendance were D-Day Ohio, Inc., treasurer Jennifer Palagyi, City Manager Tim Eggleston, Bob Kennedy, Eric Montgomery, Tom Shugerts, Vickie Yendriga, Donna Wiser, Jordan Wiser, Don Watson, Richard Spink, Jerry Anderson, Doug Oldaker, Steven Lee, Don Watts, Dave Owens, Dave Dickson, Pat and Karl Rowbotham, Ann Wiley, and Angel Wassie.

The cans will be used to make luminaries to put at Township Park during the event. Cans, with lids and labels removed, may be dropped off at Biscotti’s Restaurant, 186 Park Avenue.

More pop-up canopies are needed to make golf-cart stops in the park and shuttle stops in the parking lots.

Canopies in sizes 10x10, 10x20, and 20x20 are requested.

McLaughlin announced that the re-enactors spa-

ghetti dinner will be held at the Conneaut Human Resources Center on Aug. 17.

The CHRC will also be used for a second event after the day-long re-enactment on Aug. 17, due to overflow crowds at the USO-style show upstairs at the American Legion.

The group is unable to use the first floor of the Legion for the spaghetti dinner and a second US0-style show because a wedding reception has been reserved there.

Since the post-dinner event will be held at the CHRC, with a capacity of 400, it may be advertised as a “stage door canteen.” A shuttle bus will take re-enactors to that event. It is about three blocks from the American Legion.

D-Day Ohio, Inc., board member Eric Montgomery, in charge of World War II veterans’ hospitality for the D-Day Event, would like to invite those veterans to the spaghetti dinner.

At Township Park, a new “Supply Area” will be set up in a central area where borrowed items may be signed in and out.

A Communications booth will be set up again at the park. The Communications Committee met recently to discuss the safety of visitors, re-enactors and volunteers.

Next to the World War II Veterans’ Tent, located this year at a new site near the

A tour group will be bringing about 150 people in three busloads to the event.

A place for them to eat is being lined up.

McLaughlin announced that a grant application seeking funds for expanded transportation was submitted to the Conneaut Foundation.

The 2013 D-Day tri-fold color brochures, along with 15,000 line cards, will be ready by March 9.

More buildings and props are needed, along with assistance in building them. Dan Merzke, of D-Day Ohio, Inc., of Columbus, is expected to The D-Day Committee oversee the building, startneeds tin cans. Call Lori ing in late spring.

Ramblin Rose Alpaca McLaughlin at Biscotti’s.

Farm on Root Road in Monroe Township, has extended tennis courts, will be a tent an invitation to those with acknowledging all veterans. contained camping to park The committee hopes the at the farm for D-Day American Legion will man events. it.

A list of volunteer needs Tom Shugerts, repre- will be printed for the March senting VFW Post 2836 of meeting. Many volunteers Conneaut, says the organi- are needed in these areas. zation would like to put up a Contact McLaughlin if able live statue down by the wall. to help.

An article last year in a VFW • Running wires through magazine last year about D- Township Park, starting late Day did not mention the Aug. 13.

Conneaut VFW, he said.

• People with radio and Montgomery will follow up sound system expertise to find out about the article.

• Dispatch for the OperaJeff Raines of New Leaf tions Center Methodist Church will head • Parking lot attendants up security to ensure that • Ham radio operators World War II veterans have See D-DAY page 6A preferred seating.

“Twist” Performs at CHS Halftime

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PHOTO BY ALLAN MONONEN

Members of the “Twist” competitive cheerleading and dance teams performed at the Conneaut/Brookfield basketball game on Feb. 15. Twist is directed by Jolene Roberts.

Police Raid Under-Age Drinking Party on Daniels Road

by MARTHA SOROHAN Gazette Newspapers CONNEAUT - Conneaut police responding to an anonymous complaint of an underage drinking party on Daniels Avenue shortly after midnight Feb. 17 arrested one person for obstructing official business.

According to police reports, the anonymous complainant advised that the owners of the residence were out of town and their 17-year-old son was believed to be hosting the party.

Police arrived to find four to five cars parked in the driveway. A male was occupying one of them.

One officer began knocking on the front door, announcing his presence, and was able to hear the sounds of clanging bottles and persons hurriedly moving about the house.

About eight to ten “youngerlooking” persons were shuf-

fling past the front door and down a set of steps.

As their knocking continued, officers observed an opened six-pack of Yuengling beer on the kitchen counter, along with a 30-pack of Sam Adams beer on the floor next to the doorway leading to the basement.

With still no response to the knocking, officers then observed a larger, red-haired male, identified as 21-year-old Ryan Anderson, emerging from the basement steps and reaching for and locking the front door while police advised him to open the door. The male then retreated to the basement.

With still no response from anyone acknowledging their presence or answering the door, police contacted a caretaker and informed of the complaint. He responded immediately. After several attempts

by the caretaker, the homeowners’ son answered the rear door of the residence.

The caretaker made entry into the residence and made contact with the son. The son then went to the front door and allowed officers into the residence.

The caretaker and the officers corralled all occupants of the residence from the basement to the kitchen area and another officer who was maintaining exterior security came in the front door reported that he had observed a male attempt to exit a small basement window, damaging it in the process.

Several opened containers of alcohol, including beer, vodka, and various other alcoholic beverages, were observed in the basement and the upstairs of the residence.

The son admitted that he was hosting the party, but had not

furnished the alcohol to any of the persons present. He advised that the party goers had brought all of their own alcohol.

Officers identified four juveniles, including three 17year-old females and a 15year-old male. Also identified were 12 other subjects under age 21, and three adults 21 and older.

Anderson was arrested and transported to the City Jail for Obstructing Official Business, then later released on a Personal Recoginzance bond.

The homeowners’ son was picked up by a relative and the caretaker secured the house.

All alcohol was disposed of before securing the house and the occupants were released to responsible parties.

Charges are being sent to Ashtabula County Juvenile Court and Conneaut Municipal Court for review.

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GAZETTE NEWSPAPERS • WEEK OF WEDNESDAY, FEBRUARY 20, 2013 • 4A

PRISON were re-inspected in November and found to be in compliance or in action [to correct deficiencies],” he said.

Goodrich said LaECI’s recent “plan of action” of Jan., 2013, was in compliance.

“I’m proud of that,” he said.

While results of the Jan. 22-23 “spontaneous inspection” initiated by Ohio Rep. John Patterson (D-99) have not been released, he said that the prison must meet over 500 American Correctional Association (ACA) standards, 97 Ohio standards, and 1,600 internal standards for CCA. “I’m proud of how intensive it is. It’s done well, and it’s transparent,” he said.

Regarding inmate programs, he said that a goal of 89 inmates earning GEDs last year set by CCA and the State of Ohio had been exceeded by six at LaECI, where 97 inmates earned their certificates. Goodrich said Ashland University supplies the prison’s higher education courses. The prison offers vocational training in Computer-Aided Design, Building maintenance and faith-based courses in substance abuse.

“We want to reduce inmate idleness,” Goodrich said.

Goodrich also told the committee that CCA is an “Employer of Choice,” recognized by the magazine G.I. Jobs as a “top 100 militaryfriendly employer” for more than five years, and that CCA retained 93 percent of staff members employed by previous prison management MTC. Lt. Tim Stutzman, a 10year prison assistant shift supervisor who transferred from MTC to CCA, volunteered that former MTC LaECI employees were worried about jobs, wages, and their future upon learning in

From page 1A Sept., 2011, that LaECI had been sold to CCA. “We were a family and we cared about each other,” he said. “But now we’re part of a bigger family. If we need help, other CCA staff comes to help for a few weeks and then goes back. There are opportunities to advance and be promoted, whether to a different department or all over the United States.”

But he also pointed out that LaECI’s population has shifted in the last ten years.

“There’s a population difference in the prison between 2003 and 2013,” he said. “Changes over the past 14 months are a reaction to changing times. But the future is bright.”

Goodrich said that the prison wants to be a strong community partner and that in 2012, it was part of 77 Ohio or CCA events. He said that the prison’s recycling shop, which employs 65 inmates, recycled 1.9 million pounds last year.

“We’re committed to involvement with the community,” he said. “We want to be a strong community partner.”

To that end, Goodrich expects the prison to raise $1.2 million in tax revenues, based on 2012 data.

“I hope it goes to the schools,” he said. “I hope it supports businesses.”

Goodrich hopes to increase LaECI’s Community Relations Board from eight to upwards of 20 members in 2013 while acknowledging that the Community Service crew that assists local nonprofits and government entities with community projects is nearly non-existent, with just two inmates qualifying due to rigorous standards and expectations.

After painting a rosy picture, the CCA contingent also answered some tough questions from Public Safety Committee members and

City Council.

To At-Large Councilman Neil LaRusch’s question of 20 percent prison staff turnover rate, Goodrich verified the figure and said that most prison staff turnover is higher.

When LaRusch asked if it were true that segregated inmates were urinating in bottles and sleeping on the floor due to overcrowding, Goodrich said that had happened once, and it been corrected.

But Todd Ishee, of the Ohio Department of Rehabilitation & Corrections, added that crowded segregation rates of Level II inmates are common in many prisons.

LaRusch also asked about the reported “dramatic” increase in in-house law enforcement calls, but Goodrich said all calls are investigated by law enforcement to determine what happened. He said that from January through Sept., 2012, the percentage of such calls was 9.4 percent lower than when CCA began its ownership.

“The number of incidents went up at the end of the year because of attempts to breach the [prison] perimeter,” he said.

When LaRusch also asked if real estate investment lobbyists were attempting to get the Ohio legislature to reduce CCA’s tax burden, and whether half of the property was given by CCA to the state to reduce the tax burden, CCA Marketing Director Steve Owen answered it was a “paper conversion” that would “follow up.”

LaRusch said that when he had met with Ohio Highway Patrol and CCA in early January to talk about options regarding the contraband incidents, he was worried because he thought he heard officials say that more

cameras and permanent fencing would come to LaECI in CCA’s next budget cycle.

“The citizens can’t wait,” he said.

“All funded projects being designed and engineered will happen this year. But we have to be cautious about specifics. We don’t want anyone to defeat the system,” said Daren Swenson, CCA vice president of operations and prison start-ups.

Swenson, also a former warden, reiterated that the first year of prison ownership is rough.

“We know we can do better in 2013 because we know our expectations. It’s exciting what we can do in Conneaut that we do in 50 other places in the United States. You’ll see signs of changes in 2013,” he said.

Ishee said that good corrections practices will make LaECI safer for inmates and the community.

“I look forward to the results we think they’ll produce,” he said.

Ishee volunteered that contraband incidents that have emerged in Ohio over the last five years present an ongoing struggle.

“Contraband is a big issue, but there is real support here,” he said. “You’ve had a high success rate with the criminal element that reflects the Ohio Highway Patrol, the Conneaut Police Department, and the community. You’ve had more arrests and captures here than at other sites. All the people caught attempting to throw contraband were either arrested and/or convicted. We have never seen better results than what we have here, because of teamwork and good intelligence training. But it’s not unique to Conneaut. It’s a national problem.”

Saying that the city wants to be on board, and

PHOTO BY MARTHA SOROHAN

LaECI Warden Barry Goodrich listens as the CCA contingent offers optimistic information before the Feb. 13 Public Safety Committee meeting at City Hall. To his right are Todd Ishee of ODRC and Daren Swenson of CCA. offering City Council’s assistance, City Council President Tom Udell asked Goodrich for better communications with the city.

“We don’t have to know everything, but if it involves the public, the [city] administration should know about it,” he said.

Ward 1 Councilman Doug Hedrick’s concerns were particularly heightened because the prison sits in his ward.

“I recognize the need for community relations because the citizens are frightened,” he said. “When things occur, I don’t need to know all the details, but keep the lines of communication open so that I can reassure my constituents that thing are being handled and taken care of to allay the fear of the unknown.”

CCA employee Jeff Fisher, who also worked at the prison under MTC management, said that fights, tobacco and drugs are considered “contraband” along with cell phones.

“It used to be if you were caught with a cell phone, it was 30 days’ segregation.

Now, it’s an increase in the security level and you’re out.

Phones are up drastically.

The state changed it,” he said.

City Manager Tim Eggleston told the CCA contingent that Goodrich has his cell phone number, along with that of the Law Director and Police Chief, and asked that the prison get information to them so they could pass it along.

Committee chair Tom Kozesky expressed concerns about who handles and patrols the fence exterior and perimeter on city property.

Law Director Dave Schroeder suggested “No Trespassing” signs be posted in the woods and adjacent prison grounds so that the city can take legal action if the signs are ignored.

“There is no reason for anyone to be there,” he said.

Schroeder also asked whether state legislation is being initiated to add tobacco as a prohibited prison substance. Ishee said he is not aware of any such action.

Kozesky had the last word at the hour-long meeting, “We appreciate your coming. We trust we can be good neighbors. First years are always rough. Then they smooth out,” he said.

Seniors Celebrate Valentine’s Day in Style

by MARTHA SOROHAN Gazette Newspapers CONNEAUT - Cosmo Coccitto had no idea what was in store when he walked into the Seniors room on Feb. 14 at the Conneaut Human Resources Center shortly before 11 a.m.

Before he could find a seat, Seniors Together Director Marilyn Telega whisked him up to the front table and placed a gold paper crown — which she admitted she got from Burger King — around his head and pronounced him Valentine’s Day King.

“You just arrived on your white stallion,” Telega told him.

“White stallion? I was waiting for a train,” said Coccitto, who never stopped smiling. “Boy! This is a big honor! One of the biggest honors I’ve had in years.”

Coccitto added that he had worn his red vest just for the ladies.

Along with Yash Wojtowicz, Fran Rought and Margaret Burnham, he had been elected Valentine’s Day royalty by staff at the

Nic Church presents a yellow rose to Seniors Together member Ellen Platz. Church brought roses and heartshaped boxes of chocolate to all the seniors. The woman holding her rose, at left, was not identified.

PHOTOS BY MARTHA SOROHAN

Seniors Together Director Marilyn Telega crowns Yash Wojtowicz Valentine King on Feb. 14. Valentine Queens were Fran Rought (left) and Margaret Burnham. In the background is Dennis Rought, Sr. Conneaut Human Resources Center.

The party was a joint celebration by Seniors Together staff and Nic Church, who loves to provide heartshaped boxes of candy, Valentine cards, and yellow roses to Seniors Together members each year.

“Nic loves the seniors,” Telega explained to the 25 seniors in attendance. “He

is so kind and generous. He has brought us yellow roses, cookies and gifts.”

Church brought a handmade quilt made by his late wife, Debbie, for a Valentine’s Day drawing.

Winner was Dennis Rought, Sr. Seniors also feasted on ice cream sundaes along with heart-shaped cookies, provided by Church, and

cupcakes baked by Darlene Anderson.

Seniors played games, such as guess-the-numberof-candy-hearts-in-the-jar.

Winners were Karen Ring and Fran Raught.

Church also made a monetary contribution to the seniors program.

“I know how much they Dennis Rought, Sr., (left) and Nic Church hold up a quilt need it,” he said. “It’s hard made by Church’s late wife, Debbie. Rought won the quilt for them to raise money.” in the Seniors Together Valentines Day drawing.

GAZETTE NEWSPAPERS • WEEK OF WEDNESDAY, FEBRUARY 20, 2013 • 5A

Kelly Peretich, Seth Walbridge Are Engaged Ron and Sheri Walbridge of Conneaut are happy to announce the engagement of their son, Dr. Seth A. Walbridge, to Dr. Kelly T. Peretich, daughter of Dr. and Mrs. David Peretich of Murrysville, Pa. Dr. Peretich is a graduate of Allegheny College and Drexel University College of Medicine.

An anesthesiology resident at the University of Pittsburgh Medical Center, she is the granddaughter of Adele and the late Edward Peretich of Murrysville, Pa., and Hilda and the late Edward Taylor of Altoona, Pa. Dr. Walbridge, a graduate of Allegheny College and Temple University School of Dentistry, practices at Forest Hills Dental in Pittsburgh, Pa. He is the grandson of Laura and Harry Warren of Conneaut and the late Donald and Viola Walbridge of W. Springfield, Pa. A September wedding is planned.

Kicking the Nicotine Habit

Local Events Feb. 21 - TOPS meeting, 6 to 8 p.,m. at Marcy Family Center, Harbor & Liberty Streets.

March 1 - Opening reception, 6 to 8 p.m. at Conneaut Arts Center’s Student Art Show

Feb. 22 - Lenten dinners 4:30 to 6:30 p.m. at Cabrini Hall, 744 Mill St. Fish $9, pasta, $5, with potato, vegetable, roll, coffee/tea. Dessert $1. Take-out available.

March 2 - Benefit Spaghetti dinner by Phil’s Catering for Conneaut High School girls’ softball team, 4 to 7 p.m. at American Legion, 272 Broad Street.

March 9 - “Let’s Think Feb. 22 – Fish Fry, 5 to 8 p.m. American Legion, 272 Spring!” Craft Fair 10 a.m. to Broad Street. Sponsored by 4 p.m. at Conneaut Human Resources Center, 327 Mill Women’s Auxiliary.

Street. Food, fun, prizes, Feb. 23 - Mary’s Kitchen, raffles, Easter bunny. $1 ad11 a.m. to 1 p.m. at Conneaut mission. Crafters, vendors Human Resources Center, wanted. Call 593-5273.

327 Mill St. Homemade soup, March 9 - Motorcoach trip bread, dessert. Free. Sponsored by St. Mary/St. Frances 11 a.m. to Cleveland’s Playhouse Square for matinee perCabrini Church. formance of “Sister Act.” TickFeb. 23 - Spaghetti dinets $63. Call Conneaut Arts ner, with homemade sauce, Center (440) 593-5888. meatballs, Italian sausage, March 9 - Chili Cook-Off, bread, salad, dessert, beverage, 5 to 7 p.m. at Family Fel- 1 to 5 p.m. at Monroe Fire lowship Foursquare Gospel Hall, 4095 Center Road.

Church, 641 Mill Street. Sponsored by Monroe Township Volunteer Fire DepartAdults $8, children $4. ment. $5 ages 9+, $2.50 ages Feb. 24 - “Ragtime to 6-8, ages 5 and under, free.

Dixieland,” 1:30 p.m., Register by March 5, $10.

Conneaut Arts Center, 1025 Call John 812-0048.

Buffalo St., with “Sister Jean” March 16 - Spring Fling the Ragtime Queen, Kenan Leslie and Rod Raker. Home- 6 to 10 p.m. at American Lemade soup lunch precedes 2 gion, 272 Broad Street, with p.m. program. Adults $10, Se- music by the Kingpins. Benniors $8, Students $6. 593- efit American Legion traveling softball team.

5888.

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

“From Ragtime to Dixieland” 1:30 p.m. Feb. 24, featuring Ragtime queen “Sister” Jean Huling, her grandson, Kenan Leslie, and Conneaut keyboardist Rod Raker. Enjoy homemade soups, sandwiches, dessert before 2 p.m. program. $10 adults, $8 seniors, $6 students.

Reserve for a seat for the March 9 motorcoach trip to the matinee performance of “Sister Act” at Cleveland’s Playhouse Square. Leave 11 a.m. Dinner stop, Dutch treat, on the way home, at I-90 Willoughby interchange. Return 7 p.m. Tickets $63 non-members, $60 CAC members. Call 593-5888.

The Student Art Show opens with a reception at 6 p.m. Friday, March 1. The display includes artwork from students ages elementary through high school from Conneaut, Buckeye, and Northwest Pennsylvania schools.

Photography by Chris Joslin remains on the CAC walls for another week.

Kingsville Public Library Events Kingsville Public Library is participating in “Food For Fines” throughout February. Bring in a donation for the local food pantry and library fines will be forgiven. Return long-overdue items, with a food donation, and no fines will be assessed. Questions? Call 224-0239.

fee is $10.

The public will determine the winners. , MONROE TOWNSHIP Admission of $5 for ages Registration is March 5 for 9 and older, $2.50 for chilthe Monroe Township Vol- dren 6 to 8, and free for chilunteer Fire Department dren 5 and under includes second annual Chili Cook- samples of all chili entries, Off 1 to 5 p.m. March 9 at one dinner bowl of chili of the Monroe Fire Hall, 4095 your choice, beverage, and Center Road. Entrants one voting ticket. Call John must prepare a minimum of (440) 812-0048 or Jimmy three gallons of chili. Entry (440) 645-4396.

by Kerry Gerdes Gerdes Pharmacy 245 Main St. 593-2578 products provide the user with certain amounts of nicotine that decrease in a stepwise manner over time to help wean the person off the chemical.

Some over-the-counter nicotine products include chewing gum or lozenges (Nicorette) and patches (Nicoderm CQ, Habitrol).

Nicotine oral inhalers and nasal sprays (Nicotrol) are available as prescriptions.

Nicotine-free smoking cessation aids are prescription drugs and include varenicline (Chantix) and bupropion (Zyban). These drugs interfere with processes in the brain that are linked to nicotine cravings.

Conneaut’s Creative Writing

BY MARY LEWIS

BLESSING OF SNOW It covers a multitude of litter.

It makes the landscape bright.

It cancels unwanted obligations.

It gives me a chance to enjoy my warm house.

It allows me to plan for summer.

It prevents me from pulling weeds.

I know they are only misplaced plants and I know that ubiquitous green pest is there, but Snow hides it from me.

Do you wish you had your favorite book with you, but find it too big to carry around? Would winning a Kindle Fire make your day? The Friends of The Conneaut Public Library are celebrating the library’s migration to a new CLEVNET operating system, with downloadable books available, by sponsoring a drawing for a chance to win a Kindle Fire. Tickets are $1 each, three for $2 or five for $3.

Drawing is April 1. For more information, contact the Conneaut Public Library 593-1608.

Registration for Spring Story Hour is underway. “Books and Babies,” for ages birth to 24 months, will be held 10:30 a.m. Tuesdays. “Storytime for Tots,” for children ages 2 and 3, will be held 10:30 or 4:30 p.m. Wednesdays. “Story Hour,” for ages 4 and 5, is 10:30 a.m. or 4:30 p.m. Thursdays. The eight-week sessions begin the week of March 12 and end the week of April 30. Call 593-1608 to register.

Second Annual Chili Cook-Off March 9 Monroe Township

by MARTHA SOROHAN Gazette Newspapers

Smoking tobacco is a highly addictive habit.

This is due to the nicotine content in cigarettes, which triggers a release of chemicals in the brain that results in a pleasant and relaxing feeling for the smoker. However, smoking tobacco is also well known for its negative effects on the body, notably related to causing cancer, lung diseases, heart attacks, and strokes.

Tobacco smoke is also harmful to those who do not smoke but are constantly exposed (secondhand-smoke). Counseling and attending support groups have been helpful for some smokers. Medications are also available to assist with smoking cessation.

Products that aid with smoking cessation can either contain nicotine or be nicotine-free. Nicotine

Conneaut Public Library Events

Conneaut Hospital Thrift Shop Scholarship Volunteers of Conneaut Hospital Thrift shop are accepting applications for their scholarship program from students planning to enter the health field.

The health field includes anyone studying to become a physician, nurse, dentist, lab/X-Ray technician, etc.

Residents of Ashtabula County age 17 and older who are enrolled as high school seniors or graduates may apply.

Applicants and prior recipients may reapply annually.

Application deadline is June 1.

Application forms are available at the Conneaut Hospital Thrift Shop, 247 Main Street; by mail (P.O. Box, 194), 247 Main Street, Conneaut; UH-Conneaut Medical Center, 158 West Main Road, and Conneaut High School, 381 Mill Street, Conneaut.

Applications are available at all county high schools.

For additional information, contact Arlene Cole, president, at 594-4485.

Pharmacy & Health

Alumni Calendar Rowe High School ‘53/54 Rowe High School Classes of 1953/54 will meet for breakfast 9 a.m. March 5 at Perkins Restaurant, Conneaut Plaza.

Guests welcome. Breakfasts held the first/ third Tuesdays of each month.

CHS ’64 Conneaut High School Class of 1964 will meet 10 a.m.

Friday, March 8, at Antonette’s Restaurant on Erie Street.

The class will hold a “Spring Break” get-together 6 p.m.

Saturday, April 13, at Pat’s Fireside. Spouses and guests welcome.

PLANT IN BLOOM My little cactus I protect from cold weather.

So here are pictures.

WINTER PLANTS SURROUND ME Winter plants surround me A prayer plant at my knee, Hoya vine, a jewel in Spanish, I’m waiting now to see. <These are the hoya.> It has a drop of sweet fragrant juice at the center of each star.

To snap this shot, I turned on the light Just to prove this blooms at night.

A mother-in-law’s tongue I must admit, it’s a rare sight.

The thick leaves are on the jade I’m sure you know how it’s made.

It grows tall in tropical forests And really doesn’t like shade.

GAZETTE NEWSPAPERS • WEEK OF WEDNESDAY, FEBRUARY 20, 2013 • 6A

D-DAY

From page 3A

(see Fire Chief Steve Lee.) • Shuttle stop managers • Program sellers • Carry donation cans throughout the crowds • Spaghetti dinner volunteers Aug. 17 • Canteen workers Aug. 17 • Build marquee boards listing park events and maps (See Richard Spink.)

• People to man a second information booth in the park’s lower level. Tables, chairs, canopies and a sign are needed here as well.

• People to take maps, bus schedules and event lists to area businesses • Golf cart stop managers • Information booth volunteers at the city’s July 4 Festival • Jeeps, vehicles or a float

for the July 4 parade (held July 6) Pat Rowbotham will check with the Conneaut Board of Tourism regarding putting up D-Day banners, with new frames.

Due to the need to expand the area for Allied re-enactors’ tents on the soccer field, there will be no on-site parking for veterans and handicapped. Veterans and handicapped will park at the CN Dock Company and be transported to the park.

Reenactors will park at Lakeshore Primary School.

City Manager Tim Eggleston will check to see if Lakeview Park may be used for re-enactor parking.

Rick Chase is lining up van drivers.

Information booths will be manned by adults familiar with the area. Ann Wiley is lining up many from New Leaf United Methodist From page 2A Church.

The Veterans’ Area is beportance to you Tourism De- ing moved to the current tenvelopment, Economic Devel- nis court area. New tennis opment, Marketing of courts are being built on the Conneaut, Downtown Revi- western side of the park. talization, Consolidation of McLaughlin will check with city services, property main- the park board to see if holes tenance, trash, blighted may be made for tent pegs properties. in the current court surface.

16. What goals should the It will be converted to a city work toward (space for parking lot once the new comment)? courts are completed.

SURVEY

Eggleston said that banners put across the road must be erected by Conneaut Telephone.

Due to state budget cuts, the Army Band will not return this year, but hope to be back in the future.

Dave Owens may apply for a Navy band. Conneaut High School Vocal Music Director Megan Kalosky may impersonate a WWII-era singer for the event.

Two more sets of bleachers are being made for beach-front seating. More are needed.

Several more food vendors have been in contact about the event. More are needed in the lower park area, but their stands must be period-correct.

The group is considering applying for a Wal-Mart Foundation Grant, since they do much to help veterans. Word is they are cutting back on grants, however.

Future meeting dates are: March 9 (along with 11 a.m. D-Day Ohio, Inc., board meeting): April 13; May 4; May 18 (including walk-thru at Township Park); June 15; July 13; Aug. 3. Meetings begin 9 a.m.

The next meeting is 9 a.m. Saturday, March 9, at the American Legion. Volunteers welcome.

Introducing Our Newest Physician

Douglas C. Fleck, MD Board Certified in Pediatrics University Hospitals is pleased to welcome Douglas C. Fleck, MD to Ashtabula Pediatrics. Dr. Fleck has privileges at UH Rainbow Babies & Children’s Hospital and other area hospitals.

Board Certified in Pediatrics, Dr. Fleck received his medical degree from Case Western Reserve University School of Medicine in Cleveland, Ohio. Dr. Fleck completed his residency in Pediatrics at Akron Children’s Hospital in Akron, Ohio. He also served as the Pediatric Chief Resident and Assistant Chief Resident at Akron Children’s Hospital. Dr. Fleck was named among 2010 - 2012 Best Doctors in Cleveland Magazine and 2012 Best Doctors in America with Best Doctors, Inc. Dr. Fleck has special medical interests in general pediatrics, adolescent medicine, autistic spectrum disorders and attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD). He is currently welcoming new patients.

There’s only one Rainbow.

1527 W. 19th Street Ashtabula, Ohio 44004

440-964-8387 167D W. Main Road Conneaut, Ohio 44030

440-593-5014 RainbowBabies.org

Most major insurances are accepted.

Rotary Club Offers New Membership Levels

by MARTHA SOROHAN Gazette Newspapers CONNEAUT - Starting with “membership month” in March, Conneaut Rotary Club is offering new Corporate/ Business and Family membership levels.

Both levels offer up to four members of one organization or family the opportunity to join Rotary without membership responsibility falling on one person.

Conneaut Rotarian Chris Brecht said that according to an informal survey, weekly Rotary meeting requirement was a frequent stumbling block to prospective members. That is why Rotary International adopted the pilot program and why the Conneaut Rotary Club board unanimously approved the new membership levels in January.

“For a small-business owner, the weekly meeting can be hard to make,” said Brecht. “But by having an additional representative, you can still be involved.

Also, with four potential members from a family or business/organization, that’s four more people helping out the community and making the many projects supported by the Rotary Club of Conneaut that much more effective.”

Conneaut Rotary Club has already welcomed Snyder Collision Center as its first business/corporate member.

A Corporate/Business Membership includes a primary member, i.e., a senior level executive, and up to three other designees from that company. Voting, officeholding, and Rotary International roster listing is restricted to the primary member, while “secondary members” may attend events and attend meetings.

Family Memberships, which follow the same format, are encouraged to meet the needs of young families and the growing numbers of those who work out of their homes, said Conneaut Rotary Club President Joe Rogers.

“As you know, many business associates work out of their homes or have a small business and take their preschool children there during normal working hours,” he said. “This has restricted potentially excellent members to committing to any service organization. Our club is encouraging those potential members to bring their children to our meetings.”

Snyder Collision owner John Wilson has taken his 5year-old daughter, Jodi, to Rotary meetings.

“Our club looks forward to having his young daughter attend. It has not been an issue,” Rogers said.

Brecht — who followed his father’s footsteps in joining Conneaut Rotary Club to become more involved in the community — says that family memberships are a great way for spouses and generations of families to participate in something together while serving and supporting the community.

PHOTO BY MARTHA SOROHAN

Conneaut Rotary Club’s new Corporate/Business Members are Conneaut Collision. Owners are John and Christine Wilson and their daughter, Jodi Wilson, 5 (at left).

Rotary’s 50th individual member, Mark Lytle, joined the club earlier this month. March is Rotary Membership Month.

“Many retirees may find Rotary is a great opportunity to get involved in helping the community,” he said.

The new membership programs come at a time when Conneaut Rotary Club is thriving. Mark Lytle joined as Conneaut Rotary Club’s 50th member earlier this month, “We made it a friendly competition last year for each member to bring at least one guest during March. We had such a positive result that we decided to do it again this year,” Brecht said.

New members who comprise nearly half the local Rotary Club membership have jumped right in. Eight are serving as officers.

New members have helped make Conneaut Rotary Club the second-highest, in terms of membership, among the Ashtabula County Rotary Club “Cluster.” Only Geneva Rotary has more members.

“We reach out and visit all of our sister clubs within our

Cluster and have had mutual exchanges with Andover, Jefferson and Geneva” said Rogers. “Both Past District Governor Steve Zabor and current District Governor Julie West have been very supportive of our Club and its crazy ideas! Our growth and vitality speaks volumes to that support!”

Despite new membership initiatives, Conneaut Rotary Club sets no membership goals.

“My father was a member and past-president of the Rotary Club of Conneaut and I remember as a kid helping the Rotarians plant trees at the new underpass and repaint the ‘Welcome to Conneaut’ sign on Route 7,” said Brecht. “I remember attending Judge Harris’ ‘My Day in Court’ program and I remember as a senior in high school coming into a Rotary meeting and giving a speech about my future plans. Rotary has been a beacon in Conneaut for 90 years and a worthwhile organization to be a part of.”

Site Solver Guess the location

PHOTO BY MARTHA SOROHAN

Have you seen this sight solver in Conneaut? Be the first to call its location to The Courier (440) 576-9125, ext. 116, starting 5 p.m. Feb. 21, and you will win a donut and small coffee from Mooney’s Bakery, 213 Broad Street. Last week’s Site Solver was the sign outside the entrance The Rock Christian Fellowship at 256-1/2 Liberty Street. Winner was Chuck McCrory.

GAZETTE NEWSPAPERS • WEEK OF WEDNESDAY, FEBRUARY 20, 2013 • 7A

CELEBRATING 90 YEARS OF ROTARY IN CONNEAUT

Service Before Self CONNEAUT ROTARY SUPPORTS AND PROMOTES SOAP BOX DERBY, PROJECT PRIDE, DUCK DERBY, HALO, DICTIONARIES FOR KIDS, STUDENT DAY IN COURT, CHRISTMAS CARDS ON THE LAKE, STUDENT OF THE MONTH

MEMBERS Penny Armeni - Conneaut Center for the Arts Cyndy Arndt - Conneaut Savings Bank Stacy Aunger - Keybank Terry Atkinson - Conneaut Dock Kathe Bailey - KBG Consultants Tom Belnap - Tom Belnap CPA Chris Brecht - State Farm Insurance Kori Marcy-Campbell - Marcy Funeral Home Rick Chase - Conneaut Telephone Russ Coltman - Coltman Information Management Charles Deck - Deck Vending Bert Drennen - Community Supporter Wendy DuBey - Conneaut Chamber Wally Dunne - Consultant Tim Eggleston - City Manager Arnie Esterer - Markko Vineyards Rick Furmage - Prudential Phil Garcia - Phil’s Catering Kerry Gerdes - Gerdes Pharmacy Barb Gurto - UH Conneaut Medical Center Tom Harris - Judge JoEllen Hipps - Waters Catering Al Hoffman - Dr. Al Hoffman Kent Houston - Superintendent Bob Hybert - Community Supporter

Chris Joslin - Joslin Landis Insurance Scott Landis - Joslin Landis Insurance Traci Landis - Buckeye Schools Glenda Lowe - Ramblin’ Rose Alpacas Mark Lytle - Keybank Bob Marcy - Marcy Funeral Homes Chuck Marcy - Community Supporter Lori McLaughlin - Biscotti’s Restaurant Debbie Newcomb - Conn. Human Resource Center Joe Orlando - Orlando Brothers Golden Dawn Bim Orrenmaa - Fire Chief/Security Kathy Pape - Conneaut Library John Plosila - Superintendent Joe Rodgers - US Steel Martha Sorohan - Gazette Newspapers Jeanette Speer - Speer Accounting Pam Stump - Imagination Custom Creations Greg Sweet - Greg Sweet Chevrolet Father Ray Thomas - Priest Mitch Trout - Trout Bail Bonds Tom Truran - Print Craft Daniel VanSlyke - Teacher John Wilson - Snyder Collision Corrie Wojtowicz - Andover Bank Jack Young - Healthcare Dawn Zappitelli - Conneaut High School

MARCH

Is Membership Month See a name you know on our roster of members?

Ask them for an application & join our local Rotary Club!

TAKE ADVANTAGE OF OUR NEW MEMBERSHIP OPTION:

CORPORATE MEMBERSHIP

An option to new members is to join as a business, corporation or group such as a church. Instead of individual membership, your business can list employees or members who can also attend meetings to represent your group and share the opportunities of networking, informational speakers, fellowship and fun enjoyed at every Rotary meeting.

YOUR LOCAL INDEPENDENT PHARMACY FOR 52 YEARS Christopher E. Brecht Agent 256 Liberty Street Conneaut, OH 44030 Bus: 440-593-1191 www.brechtinsurance.com State Farm, Bloomington IL 1211999

Kerry Gerdes, Ticey Czup & Dave Turner, Pharmacists

HOME DELIVERY AVAILABLE!

G

ERDES PHARMACY 245 Main St., Conneaut

593-2578 • 1-800-445-2537 Monday-Friday 9-8 • Saturday 9-4

www.mygnp.com/gerdesrx

CONNEAUT AREA

CHAMBER OF COMMERCE 100+

Years of Service

235 Main Street, Conneaut, Ohio 44030 Email: conneautchamber@suite224.net www.conneautchamber.org Tel. 440.593.2402 • Fax 440.599.1514

Picture Yourself at the Conneaut Community Center for the Arts!

Located in the Port of Conneaut, Ohio Housed in historic “Kilpi Hall” Discover the ART of living!

Summer Concert Series • Art Camp for Kids Art Exhibits • Dance Program • Theater for Kids & Adults Year-Round Cultural Venue Check us out at www.conneautartscenter.org 440-593-5888 • 1025 Buffalo Street

Sports

GAZETTE NEWSPAPERS • WEEK OF WEDNESDAY, FEBRUARY 20, 2013 • 8A

Falcons claw Warriors

BY ALLAN MONONEN Gazette Newspapers ASHTABULA TOWNSHIP -The Edgewood Lady Warriors faced off with county rival Jefferson Wednesday. Jefferson shot well from outside to take an initial 18-9 lead, extend that to 30-17 at the half and go on to a 61-42 victory.

“Sarah (Busch) hit a couple three’s early, that opens up the inside,” Falcon coach Rod Holmes said.

Helping out the Falcon offense, they shot well from the line, making 6/11 to add to their lead.

After the break, Jefferson flew out and pushed out their lead to 51-29 after three periods.

“The third quarter’s been our Achilles heel all year long, it’s not that we come out poorly other teams just run it down our throat.We get stops but we don’t have the confidence in our ability to score. That’s the bottom line, we don’t have confidence in ourselves. We have to be confident to weather the storm.It’s only a few min-

Cortney Humphrey, of Edgewood, puts up a shot, as she is guarded by Emily Smock,1 and Deanna Comp. utes of spurts, we ‘re up and down. Sometimes we’re good, sometimes we’re not so good,” Warrior coach Dave McCoy said.

Edgewood battled back to win the final period, with Taylor Diemer hitting a couple threes but the gap was too large to fill as the Warriors fell by the final 6142.

On the scoresheet, Sarah Busch led the Falcons with 19, including three threes.

“The things about me being able to hit threes is my follow through. It’s important (to score) because I know I am one of the better offensive people on the team.

Every shot I take is important,” Busch said.

LeeAnn Farr helped out with a double/double, 18 points and 11 rebounds, Jessica Becker added seven, Emily Smock, five, Lindsay Becker and Deanna Comp three each.

Colleen

DISCOVER WHAT YOUR A-TECH HAS TO OFFER Start exploring on Thursday, February 28, at the annual A-Tech Spaghetti Dinner & Open House!

A-Tech Culinary Arts student Teyonna Vaux

Please join us on Thursday, February 28 for our Open House from 3:30 p.m. to 8:30 p.m. and our Spaghetti Dinner from 4:30 p.m. to 7:00 p.m.

Adults - $4.75

Senior Citizens - $4.00

Children 12 & Under - $3.75 During this event, you will have the opportunity to meet our staff, enjoy a delicious, student-prepared meal, and tour our classrooms and labs. * All proceeds benefit A-Tech Scholarship Fund.

1565 State Route 167, Jefferson, Ohio 44047 . 440-576-6015 . www.atech.edu The Ashtabula County Technical & Career Center does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, national origin, sex, disabilities, or age in its programs and activities and provides equal access to the Boy Scouts and other designated youth groups.

O’Connor,Sarah Brook and Ariann Barile had two points apiece.

Taylor Diemer led the Warriors with 14. April Lane added six and Ronnie Brady, five. Haley Holden, Alyssa Johnson, and Gia Saturday had four points each. Julie Rich, and Cortney Humphrey had two points apiece and Carrie Pascarella made a free throw.

Jefferson improves to 913, Edgewood drops to 3-18.

In the JV contest, the Falcons held on for a 35-28 win.

Taylor Diemer,12 fires up a three from the corner for the Warriors as they hosted the Falcons.

Kaycee Smock led Jefferson, 9-13 with ten points. Ashley Evans had eight for Edgewood, 4-15.

Monday the Warriors ventured to Cortland Lakeview. Edgewood fell behind early as the Bulldogs went on to a 75-26 win.

“We fell behind early and dug a hole we couldn’t get out of,” Coach McCoy said.

PHOTOS BY ALLAN MONONEN Taylor Diemer had 8 and Keegan McTrusty, of Carrie Pascarella scored six Edgewood, readies to for the Warriors. inbound the ball during a game against Jefferson.

Edgewood moving in a different direction; releases Coach Iarocci

BY BYRON C. WESSELL Gazette Newspapers ASHTABULA – Fresh off a state football playoff berth for the first time in school history, the Edgewood Warriors will be moving in a different direction after the release of Head Football Coach Dom Iarocci.

Coach Dom Iarocci was let go as head coach of the Edgewood Warriors football team after an evaluation over two months ago on Dec. 14, 2012. The news still comes as a surprise to many high school football followers in the area, especially in the Buckeye School District.

Iarocci was the head football coach for the Warriors for the past three seasons and was an assistant coach prior to that under Joe Kearney.

“I want to thank Edgewood for the opportunity to coach there. I especially would like to thank the coaches, players, fans, booster club, cheerleaders and band for their great support,” Iarocci said.

“I love my players, and myself and my coaches put our hearts and souls in building the program,” Iarocci added.

Iarocci comes from a long line of great football coaches as he started in Madison under George Opron and Jack Hribar and was part of a 10-0 season in 1973 as the offensive coordinator. Iarocci also was the offensive coordinator at Ashtabula under Jim Orr for back-to-back 9-1 seasons in 1988 and 1989. Iarocci went on to be the head coach at Saint John for nearly a decade and also worked with Coach Hassett at Geneva and eventually under Joe Kearney at Edgewood.

Iarocci has already been approached by coaches in the area offering him positions on their staff, but Iarocci is unsure about coaching again at

the moment.

“It takes the heart and soul out of you to have two administrators tell you they’re going in a different direction. Plus, I wouldn’t want to coach against the Edgewood players,” Iarocci said.

As a football coach, Iarocci knew the amount of time, energy and dedication it takes to run a football program. He spent three weeks of his vacation time to run his two-aday program over the summer.

“I loved doing what I was doing and was looking forward to just coaching,” Iarocci said on nearing a possible retirement.

Things seemed to be going in the right direction as Edgewood went to the state play-offs for the first time in school history. On top of that, nearly 20 seniors were expected to come back next season to keep the program heading in the right direction.

Iarocci was blindsided by his evaluation, in which out of 36 questions, 17 were marked excellent, 12 were marked acceptable, two were marked in-between acceptable and needs improvement, and five were marked needs improvement. Zero of the questions were answered with a 1, which denoted any assessments deemed unacceptable.

One of those areas for improvement was to attend clinics, seminars and to stay abreast of current techniques and methods.

Just a week prior to the evaluation, Iarocci said he was given a press release to attend a football clinic. Another area of concern dealt with public relations and cooperation with newspapers, radio, T.V. booster club, parents and the general public.

Iarocci went into the evaluation fresh off of getting complimented at the Annual

Touchdown Club Dinner. He recently gave the superintendent a helmet signed by himself and all of the players. The Ashtabula Township trustees presented him with a plaque honoring him and the high school on their successful season. The football team was asked to be in the Christmas parade and the Edgewood School Board honored him and gave him a certificate for his accomplishments.

He also dealt with the experience of play-off week, where Iarocci and the players had to go through the uncertainty of if they were even going to be allowed to participate.

“Handled himself well during a very difficult time with the playoff situation we were presented,” the evaluation listed as an area of strength.

Over 400 fans lined the parking lot to send off the Warriors football team. Nine buses traveled down to the game to show their support.

Some other areas of concerns dealt with the coaching staff in helping other coaches become better coaches and holding regular coaching meetings for the entire staff (7-12.) Furthermore, an area marked for improvement was preparing for daily practices with staff so maximum instruction is presented, utilizing all opportunities for instruction and plans for contests.

Iarocci said in past seasons, his coaching staff was cut down from 10 coaches to only six, but he also held Sunday morning meetings for his coaching staff.

For these reasons, Iarocci had a problem with his evaluation.

“I worked for some hall-offame coaches and yet I was evaluated by two guys who in my opinion have no idea how

See IAROCCI page 9A

Sports

GAZETTE NEWSPAPERS • WEEK OF WEDNESDAY, FEBRUARY 20, 2013 • 9A

Madison Streaks past Conneaut

PHOTOS BY ALLAN MONONEN

Dani Heinonen, of Conneaut, prepares to inbound the ball during a game against Madison.

BY ALLAN MONONEN Gazette Newspapers CONNEAUT - Conneaut hosted Madison Tuesday on Senior Night, in an independent ladies basketball contest.

The visitors ran out to a 16-3 first quarter lead and broadened that to 24-7 at the half.

Conneaut was able to get the lid off the basket in the third period as they outscored the Streaks but Madison regrouped in the final stanza for a 52-26 triumph.

“I was really proud of the way the girls played tonight,”Spartan coach Tony Pasanen said.

“When we play team defense like we did tonight we can hang with anyone. The problem is that we give up more points off our offense than our defense.”

Madison converted many of the 20 Spartan turnovers into points.

Madison assistant coach Randy Rose filled in for coach Mike Smith who was under the weather.

“We are an inside/out team. We just missed some shots early and Tony Pasanen made a nice adjustment as he doubled down on the post to take that away from us. We had to start kicking the ball out to our shooters,” Coach Rose said.

Abbie Trivisonno had a hot streak in the fourth quarter to lead the Streaks to the finish line.

“That was a big steal by Abbie it really sparked us and got us going. That came

out of a timeout where I talked to the girls about getting the emotion and finishing the game strong,” Rose added.

“Tori Simek and Lydia Coccitto close out their careers, I can’t say enough about their attitude and heart. They leave a a good example for the younger girls to follow,” Pasanen praised his seniors.

In a nice gesture by both teams, injured Spartan senior Angie Zappitelli hobbled to center court for the tipoff. When the Madison player out jumped her and tipped the ball to her teammate, the Spartans called time to enable Angie to leave the court and be replaced. Madison then inbounded the ball to continue the game.

On the scoreboard, Trivisonno lead the Streaks with 13, Taylor Bland added 10. Melanie Primer and Julie Gavorski had eight each. Danielle Johnson added seven and Taylor Gustin and Julie Bruening had two each.

For the Spartans, Lexi Zappitelli scored seven, Shae Brink, five, Dani Heinonen and Lydia Coccitto four each. Jessica Thompson had three, Payton Hanas two and Tori Simek one to wrap up the Spartan scoring.

Madison moves up to 157, 8-4, PAC. Conneaut slips to 7-15.

In the Jv prelim, the Streaks ran away with a 4715 victory. Lily Kershbaum tallied 12 for Madison, 19-3.

Alyssa Cahdwick had six for Conneaut, 6-13.

The Conneaut Spartans defend a three pointer during a game against Brookfield.

Brookfield Warriors slay Spartans BYALLAN MONONEN Gazette Newspapers CONNEAUT - Conneaut hosted Brookfiled Friday night in the return game of the home/home series.

In the first contest at Brookfield, the teams battled evenly until the Warriors were able to pull away in the final minutes.

Friday, Conneaut fell behind early, but fought back to within six points in the last five minutes. Brookfield then made their foul shots to go away with the 49-33 win.

In a fast paced contest, the visitors ran out to a 13-6 first quarter lead, and added on to a 22-14 advantage at the half.

“We had a bit of an offnight shooting. We also had a number of turnovers that we usually don’t make. Give Conneaut credit for both of those items. They played hard all the way. We knew it would be a physical game,” Warrior coach Bill Kovach said.

Conneaut cut the gap to 38-32 in the last five minutes when Michael Mirando hit a three pointer. Brookfield called a timeout to regroup, and then scored two baskets to restore a ten point lead.

That would be the closest the Spartans would come for the remainder of the contest.

“I think we played poorly on offense. Maybe we hesitated a few times but Brookfield has long arms that alter the passing lanes.

They’re too good a team to have an off night shooting against. Missed layups and limited free throw chances cost us. We just didn’t seem to have the good chemistry

IAROCCI to evaluate a coach or a football program in Principal Karl Williamson and Athletic Director Steve Kray,” Iarocci said.

Iarocci said what he regrets most about being let go is not being able to have a chance to say goodbye to the team and his players.

“I’m going to miss them Lydia Coccitto looks to pass for the Conneaut Spartans very much. The kids and as they hosted the Madison Blue Streaks. coaches were part of my daily life throughout the year, starting in February with weightlifting. They are a great group of kids and every player was like a son to me. The fans and booster club were always great to me, too,” Iarocci said.

There’s always two sides to a story, and for the Buckeye School District and Edgewood High School officials, they said they want to go in a different direction with the head football coach position.

Overall, the evaluation Jessica Thompson brings the ball up-court for the Conneaut and the ultimate release of Spartans during a recent game against Madison.

PHOTOS BY ALLAN MONONEN

Dylan Campbell, of Conneaut, goes to the free throw line during a game against Brookfield. we’ve had lately. You can’t play just three quarters of defense against a good team like we did. They hurt us early, they hurt us late but otherwise we were right there with them,” Conneaut coach Tim Tallbacka said.

“We talked early about stopping their three point shooting. We watched film from the first game and they can shoot the three. I think we did well rebounding, which we stress. Conneaut was solid and kept us from doing a lot of what we want to get done.

They are a good team,” Coach

Kovach added.

Scoring wise, Jeremy Quinlan led the Warrior attack with 18. Derrick Dickson added ten.

Bud Ritari had a good game inside with 12 points, Nick Blood added seven and Mirando six. Christian Williams put in six, Jordan Geiser, two and Dylan Campbell, one.

Brookfield improves to 154, Conneaut sags to 6-13.

In the JV contest, the visitors won an exciting game, 4240. Caleb Hunkus scored ten points for the Warriors, 14-4.

Justin Myers put in 13 for

Conneaut, 7-11.

Tuesday the Spartans traveled to Ledgemont to take on the Redskins. Conneaut scored at least twenty points in every period to take a 8433 victory.

Conneaut had four seniors scoring in double figures.

Christian Williams and Bub Ritari tallied 16 each. Nick Blood had 15 and Michael Mirando, 22 to lead the visitors.

The Spartans also won the JV game, 45-30. Justin Myers had 11, Jarrett Young scored 12 for Ledgemont.

From page 8A looking into a different direc- as he has received countless tion,” Edgewood’s Athletic Di- letters, emails and calls askrector Steve Kray said. ing why he was let go, and all Dom Iarocci was summed up: The Warriors are currently he can replay is “I don’t know.”

“The Edgewood Warriors in the process of filling the Will a fresh start help the football team had a success- head football coach position. Warriors continue their new ful season. At this time, the “We want to provide them found success on the gridiron, administration feels that the with someone with different or will the Warriors find program needs to move in a approaches to help their suc- themselves humming the different direction to keep the cess continue,” Kray added. tune of, “You don’t know what program developing into a For Iarocci, many ques- you’ve got until it’s gone?” perennial playoff contender. tions are still left unanswered Time will tell.

We thank Coach Iarocci for his years of service to Edgewood Senior High School and our student athletes,” the general evaluation of Iarocci’s performance read.

In a recent phone call, Kerry Gerdes, Ticey Czup & Edgewood High School gave Dave Turner, Pharmacists the following statement: “We’re very appreciative of HOME DELIVERY AVAILABLE! his efforts this past season and his coaching staff. The kids put in a lot of effort and PHARMACY they worked hard in the offseason. The district is mov245 Main St., Conneaut ing in a different direction to 593-2578 • 1-800-445-2537 bring in someone new with Monday-Friday 9-8 • Saturday 9-4 different approaches. We’re www.mygnp.com/gerdesrx proud of our team and we’re

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GAZETTE NEWSPAPERS • WEEK OF WEDNESDAY, FEBRUARY 20, 2013 • 10A

Fireworks Toss Leads to Charges

by MARTHA SOROHAN Gazette Newspapers CONNEAUT - Police units were dispatched to E. Main Road Feb. 13 for reports of fireworks being tossed out of a dark-colored vehicle. Two juveniles and two 18-year-olds involved are facing charges.

According to police reports, officers were summoned at 5:54 p.m. by a caller who said the vehicle’s occupants were throwing fireworks at other vehicles that drove near and/ or passed the dark-colored vehicle.

The caller had obtained the license plate number, which came back registered to a 17-year-old male juvenile.

Officers patrolled the immediate area and pulled into the driveway of the listed address and observed a dim light on inside the garage. A car was parked inside with four boys sitting in it. The vehicle’s registration matched that given by the complainant.

As the officer began tapping on the window of the garage door, the subjects inside the car began frantically scrambling about as if trying to place items on the floor.

Seeing their startled response, the officer asked them to open the overhead door.

The male seated in the

driver’s seat exited the car and walked out of the man door on the east side of the garage. He was young and displayed a hostile attitude and demanded to know why the officer was at his house.

The officer responded to his poor attitude by ordering him to return to the vehicle to speak with him and the passengers at the same time.

The juvenile continued being less than cooperative and repeatedly said that he lived at the residence and was waiting for his mother. The officer entered the garage with him and questioned him about where the group had been prior to his arrival and why they were sitting in the garage with the doors closed.

The young man refused to answer questions and repeatedly asked the officer why he was there. At one point, a front-seat passenger, 18year-old Evan Troy James Sintic, said, “Shut up, man! I did it. I threw the fireworks out of the car.”

The other occupants of the vehicle denied possessing any other fireworks and Sintic said he had tossed them all out of the car before arriving at the residence.

The officer opened the overhead garage door and had all four boys exit the garage

and provide identification.

In addition to two 16-yearold juveniles, including the driver, were 18-year-old Ryan McBride and Sintic. When McBride exited the car, officers observed a long BBQ grilltype lighter on the floor of the car where he had been seated.

Each of the subjects was patted down for possible contraband.

A check of the vehicle’s back seat uncovered small reddish-purple colored wooden sticks consistent with those commonly used on bottle rocket fireworks. Inside a back pack on the back seat were three bottle rockets and items belonging to one of the male juveniles.

Also located was a tin container with a Wrigleys Chewing Gum logo. Inside were several items consistent with that of drug paraphernalia: cigarette rolling papers, a cigarette rolling device, glass pipe with a charred residue consistent with that of burnt marijuana, another tin container and a plastic bag containing a small amount of suspected marijuana. The juvenile stated they were not his and that he took them from his mother.

Officers checked the rest of the vehicle’s passenger compartment and located a plas-

tic bag containing a substance consistent with that of marijuana concealed under the rear edge of the passenger’s side front seat. On the driver’s side rear floor was an empty plastic bag and a small pile of loose marijuana on the floor that appeared to have been recently dumped.

In the front center console was a cigar wrapper that had been emptied of its original contents and in the map pocket of the passenger’s side front door was the packaging from the cigar wrapper.

When officers removed the items and presented them to the boys, none would claim ownership. They said they did not know they were in the car.

Since officers found a suspect item where each of the boys was seated, the officers advised that a report was going to be generated and each faced possible charges.

Sintic and McBride were released from the scene. The vehicle owner’s mother arrived to take custody of her son and the other juvenile was transported to the station and later picked up by his mother.

The mother stated that the male driver was not supposed to be at the house and that he had been recently cited into juvenile court for marijuana possession.

Suspended Driver Man Arrested on ACSO Warrant Cited, Vehicle Towed by MARTHA SOROHAN witness. The caller said

by MARTHA SOROHAN Gazette Newspapers CONNEAUT - Harry Hammer was cited for driving under suspension following a traffic stop on Feb. 15.

According to police reports, officers at 10:04 p.m. observed the rear license plate illumination on a blue Chevy Astro van heading westbound on State Street was not working.

Checking the vehicle reg-

istration, they found that the license of the vehicle owner, Hammer, had been suspended.

When officers stopped the vehicle, neither Hammer nor his passengers could provide an operator’s license or proof of insurance. Dispatch confirmed Hammer’s suspension, and he was cited. His vehicle was removed by Emus Automotive. A friend arrived to drive Hammer and his passengers from the scene.

Gazette Newspapers

CONNEAUT - Richard Henderson was arrested on an active warrant with the Ashtabula County Sheriff ’s Office on Feb. 12.

According to police reports, Conneaut police were dispatched to Center Street at 3:36 a.m. in reference to an intoxicated male who was unwanted.

They were met at the residence by the caller and a

her boyfriend, Henderson, was drunk and needed to go. The witness said that Henderson had broken her TV. At that time, Henderson walked out of the front door of the residence.

Officers asked dispatch to run Henderson’s information. They learned that the sheriff ’s office wanted Henderson on an active warrant, and arrested him.

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Favor Turns Foul As Driver Is Cited

by MARTHA SOROHAN Gazette Newspapers

he was having a bad day.

Welty provided an operator’s license issued by CONNEAUT - A local the state of Indiana. Aware man with suspended driving that Welty lives in privileges was cited Feb. 13 Conneaut, officers asked after being spotted behind why he did not have an Ohio the wheel of a friend’s ve- license. He did not answer, but said his driving status hicle.

According to police re- was valid.

The front seat passenger ports, officers at 7:40 p.m. observed a Jeep station was identified as vehicle wagon with only one work- owner Eakin. The rear seat ing headlight on the passenger’s side passenger passenger’s side traveling was Jill Nottingham.

Dispatch advised that northbound on Mill near Welty’s and Eakin’s Ohio Jackson Street.

After learning from Dis- driving privileges were suspatch that the vehicle’s reg- pended. Welty had an open istered owner, Carrie Eakin, suspension for an OVI ofwas suspended for a Non- fense and Eakin a Non-ComCompliance Suspension, of- pliance Suspension.

Officers asked Welty to ficers initiated a traffic stop on 16th Street just east of exit the car and asked why he was driving. He said he Mill Street.

They talked with the op- and his girlfriend, Eakin, erator, Stephen Welty, and were doing Nottingham a noticed twitching of his face favor by driving her to the and hands. When ques- pharmacy.

Welty was cited. tioned about it, Welty said

Juvenile Found Walking on I-90 Entrance Ramp

by MARTHA SOROHAN Gazette Newspapers CONNEAUT - A juvenile found walking on westbound I-90 was turned over to her father by Conneaut police.

According to police reports, officers were dispatched to the scene at 5:28 a.m. Feb. 11, after receiving a call from a driver about a juvenile possibly walking on the roadway.

They found the juvenile female, who appeared to be about 9 years old, walking on I-90 westbound about 500 feet west of the westbound entrance ramp off Route 7.

She told police she was walking from her father’s house on Buffalo Street to her mother ’s house in

Looking for a copy of

Ashtabula. She said she was walking because her stepmother was not allowing her to use Facebook.

Police transported the girl to the police station.

During the time officers were retrieving her, 9-1-1 dispatch had received a frantic call from the stepmother.

Dispatch advised the caller and the child’s father that they had the juvenile and were bringing her back to the police station.

The father met with officers at the station and explained what the juvenile had advised. Police warned the juvenile about the dangers of leaving home unattended, and turned her over to her father’s custody without further incident.

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Religion

GAZETTE NEWSPAPERS • WEEK OF WEDNESDAY, FEBRUARY 20, 2013 • 11A

CAMA Lenten Services Begin Feb. 21

by MARTHA SOROHAN Gazette Newspapers CONNEAUT - “Prayer and Practice: Means of Grace That Nurture Faith and Shape Life,” is the theme of the Conneaut Area Ministerial Association’s 2013 series of Lenten worship services.

The ecumenical services are held 6:30 p.m. Thursdays, Feb. 21 through March 21, at rotating churches.

Churches, pastors, and musicians share duties at each service.

All are welcome.

“We chose ‘Prayer and Practice’ because they are essential to Christian life,”

said Joyce Shellhammer, pastor of First Congregational United Church of Christ. “Each service reflects a different aspect of prayer.”

• February 21: Church of God, 5327 Center Road (Route 7). Tim Kraus, pastor, Conneaut Church of Christ, preaching. Music by “Singing Preachers.”

• February 28: Church of Christ, 448 W. Main Road.

Carson Robson, pastor, Conneaut Church of God, preaching. Music by Norris Kelly, choir director, First Congregational United Church of Christ • March 7 - New Leaf United Methodist Church, 283 Buffalo Street. Joyce

Shellhammer, pastor, First Congregational United Church of Christ, preaching.

Music by Believers Fire of Good Shepherd Lutheran Church • March 14 - Good Shepherd Lutheran Church, Grove Street at Lake Road.

The Rev. Scott or Jan Walsh, pastors of New Leaf United Methodist Church, preaching. Music by First Congregational United Church of Christ.

• March 21 - First Assembly of God, 389 W. Main Road. Nancy Guthrie, pastoral assistant at Good Shepherd Lutheran Church, preaching. New Leaf UMC Choir will sing.

Wildfire Dance In the Spotlight

Midweek Lenten Services at GSLC Good Shepherd Lutheran Church, Grove Street at Lake Road, offers 7 p.m. Wednesday Lenten worship, “Discovering the Parables,” following 6 p.m. soup-and-sandwich supper, with dessert, in Fellowship Hall.

On Feb. 27, Mark Lytle will speak on “The Prodigal Son,” followed by Ruchard Tulino speaking on “The Unforgiving Servant” on March 6.

FILE PHOTO

Purple fabric draped on crosses in front of many Conneaut churches symbolizes the 40-day period of Lent, which began Feb. 13.

CORRECTION

Church Sign:

Due to roof problems,the congregation of Monroe United Methodist Church will meet starting Feb. 24 at 10:30 a.m. at Kelloggsville United Methodist Church, 4763 N. Monroe Center Road. Kelloggsville UMC pastor who graciously offered the Monroe congregation use of its sanctuary for the near future is the Rev. Aleeta Burkholder.

“The victim of Good Friday was the victor on Easter.”

– First Baptist Church, Conneaut

Religious Briefs At 11 a.m. worship Feb. 24 at First Baptist Church, 370 State Street, greeters will be Dixie Onion, Ken and Ruth Powell and the Carothers family. Interim pastor is Brian Ewig.

Monroe United Methodist Church will worship 10:30 a.m. Feb. 24 at Kelloggsville United Methodist Church, 4763 N. Monroe-Center Road. Pastor Samara Jenkins will preach. There will be no Sunday school.

At 11 a.m. worship on Feb. 24 at First Congregational United Church of Christ, Main & Buffalo Streets, liturgist is Donald Horwood. The Chancel Choir will perform, “Let Us Love One Another,” accompanied by flutist Hannah Lower.

In recognition of Black History Month, Pastor Joyce Shellhammer and Norris Kelly will speak on “Brother and Sister in Christ Jesus,” based on Matthew 25:3146. Kelly will perform “Give Me Jesus.”

Spirituals will be featured.

The Rev. Scott Walsh will preach on “Enemies of the Cross,” based on Philippians 3:17-21, at 9 a.m. contemporary and 11 a.m. traditional worship Feb. 24 at New Leaf United Methodist Church, 283 Buffalo Street. New Leaf Adult Choir will sing “Beneath the Cross” under the direction of Rebecca Levering.

Free brunch 8:45 to 10:50 a.m. People in Prayer for Progress 10 a.m. Saturday at New Leaf South on Gateway Boulevard.

Youth meet 6 p.m. Sunday at New Leaf South.

At Good Shepherd Lutheran Church, 876 Grove Street on Feb. 24, the second Sunday of Lent, the Rev. Franklin Gore will preach on “Expectations,” as part of his Lenten sermon series, “They Call Him the Savior.” Worship with Holy Communion is 8:30 a.m. (contemporary) and 11 a.m. (traditional). Nursery available for birth to 5. Congregational meeting is noon Feb. 24.

Church Meals New Leaf United Methodist Church, 283 Buffalo Street, free Friday Community Dinner 5 to 6 p.m.

Feb. 22 menu is ham & scalloped potatoes. On March 1, roast pork and bow tie pasta will be served. Meals include veggies, homemade rolls & butter, desserts.

Free Wednesday evening suppers 5 to 6:30 p.m. at Family Fellowship Foursquare Gospel Church, 641 Mill Street.

Menu Feb. 27 is Tuna Noodle casserole, salad, Jello salad, soft drink.

Lenten fish fries 4:30 to 6:30 p.m. Fridays at Cabrini Hall, 744 Mill Street. Baked or fried white fish dinners, with baked potato, mixed vegetables, homemade roll & butter, cole slaw or apple sauce, and coffee or tea, $9; children $5. Pasta & sauce meal with cole slaw or applesauce and roll is $5.

Dessert $1 and pop or bottled water $1.

Take-out available. Also 50/50 raffle. Gift basket raffle at the final dinner on March 29. Dinner follows 4 p.m. Stations of the Cross at St. Francis Cabrini Church. Fish Fry sponsored by St. Mary/St. Frances Cabrini Church.

Spaghetti dinner fund-raiser 5 to 7 p.m. Feb. 23 at Family Fellowship Foursquare Gospel Church, 641 Mill Street.

Pasta with homemade sauce and meatballs, Italian sausage, salad, bread, dessert, drink. Adults $8. Children $4.

Bus Trip to “Noah” in Lancaster, Pa. Good Shepherd Lutheran Church is sponsoring a bus trip to Lancaster, Pa., on July 8 and 9 to see the dramatic production of “Noah.” The audience is seated in the ark with the animals as wind and rain pound against the structure. Stay at the Cork Factory Hotel, with stops at rural quilt and craft shops. Dinner at the Plain and Fancy Restaurant. Call Shirley Harco at 594-3873 for information.

SUBMITTED PHOTO

Award-winning Wildfire Dance presented its 18th annual Spotlight Show on Feb. 17 at Lakeside High School. This year’s Junior and Senior competition teams feature 53 girls ranging in age from 11 to 18 from Ashtabula, Geneva, Conneaut, and Madison. Also appearing in Sunday’s show were young dancers who learned a dance routine at a special dance clinic on Saturday. Photographed is the Wildfire Senior Competition Team performing to Annie Lennox’s a capella version of “Little Bird.” Proceeds from the event fund entry fees to upcoming 2013 competitions in Findlay, Dayton, and Cincinnati. Wildfire competition teams head to Findlay on Saturday to compete in the Ameridance regional contest with 11 routines. Wildfire Dance is directed and choreographed by founder Mary Murtha of Conneaut.

Forty-one A-Tech Students Earn Certificates For Perfect Attendance

BY JAN PERALA A-Tech JEFFERSON TOWNSHIP - Fortyone Ashtabula County Technical and Career Campus students were honored at a recognition ceremony and ice cream social last Friday afternoon for perfect attendance last semester.

“There’s so much importance attached to attending school each and every day,” ATech senior Joe Robinson said. “From seeing your friends, to taking a test or a final, PHOTO BY JAN PERALA FOR A-TECH showing up to school Twins Pamela and Jasmine Brown of Conneaut were among every day shows what 41 A-Tech students who received certificates for perfect a great work ethic you possess, as well as attendance at a recognition ceremony last Friday hosted by showing that you care Dean of Students Paul Stofan (left), Instructional Coordinator about furthering your Gilda McQuoid (right). education. It was our decision attendance pencil: • Early Childhood Eduto attend A-Tech; therefore, • Auto Technology – Ken- cation – Katie Bogdan, you should want to be there neth Anthony, Theresa Christopher Bush, Jillian every day, and I am happy Harding and Jonathan Flannery, Kristaly Montalvo every day I go to school!” and La’Cole Parrigan Lupold Robinson is immersed in • Electricity – Gerald • Auto Collision – his second year in A-Tech’s Leenoshka Juan Scott Public Safety Academy, • Graphic Communica• Business Technology – where he is learning the Veronica Tackett tions – Sara Anderson, Tifropes of fire safety. For • Carpentry – Cory fany Ayres, Krista Beddoe, Robinson, day-to-day class Chapman Pamela Brown, Jasmine participation assumes life• Computer Information Brown and Carly Tackett altering proportions.

• Health Care Academy Systems – Brandon Last’s Fridays recogni- Boomhower, James – Brittany Chapman and tion and ice cream social was Cunningham, Ryan Davis, Tiffany Chmielewski hosted by A-Tech Principal Luis Gonzalez, Levi Joerns, • Horticulture – Misty Jon Whipple, Dean of Stu- Michael McArdle, Dustin Sacket dents Paul Stofan and In- Thress and Evan Zubeck • Masonry- Joshua Rose structional Coordinator • Power Tech – Michael • Computer Networking Gilda McQuoid. Celebratory & Electronic Technology – Bixby, Kyle Lake and Brett ice cream sundaes were Lane Randolph, Christopher McIlwain served by A-Tech Culinary Sitko • Public Safety Academy Arts students. Each of these • Cosmetology – Kelsie – Joseph Robinson and perfect attendees received a Blankenship Ashley Seavey verbal pat on the back, a cer• Welding – Felipe • Culinary Arts – Isaac tificate, a pin and a perfect Garriga, Cody Thomas Pacheco-Santos, Jr.

GAZETTE NEWSPAPERS • WEEK OF WEDNESDAY, FEBRUARY 20, 2013 • 12A

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4

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Lloyd’s Shredded BBQ

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699 LB

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9

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499

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Wholey Shrimp Ring

IQF

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599

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7

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Hampton Farms Peanuts

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United Tea

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Extra-Chewy Chocolate

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