Courier 12-15-11 by Stefanie Wessell

Inside this week Letters to Santa written by the children of Ashtabula County

Norris Kelly Leads Choir at First UCC - See page 6A

Lights of Love List 1 - See page 9A Periodical’s Postage Paid

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

THURSDAY DECEMBER 15, 2011

VOL. 20 NO. 50

The Rev. Frank Gore

Frank Gore Appointed to Port Authority by MARTHA SOROHAN Gazette Newspapers

Dave Schroeder Running for County Prosecutor

Law Director Dave Schroeder

CONNEAUT - The Rev. Frank Gore was appointed by Conneaut City Council Monday night to a 15month term on the Conneaut Port Authority. Despite rumored behind-thescenes efforts to secure another recommendation from City Manager Timothy Eggleston, Gore will fill the remaining months of a term vacated by the retiring John Palo, and was present Monday evening to accept congratulations of coun-

by MARTHA SOROHAN Gazette Newspapers CONNEAUT - Conneaut Law Director David Schroeder will be the Republican challenger to Democratic incumbent Thomas Sartini in the Ashtabula County Prosecutor’s race next November. Schroeder filed petitions with the Ashtabula County Board of Elections last week. “It’s the right thing to do,” he said. Schroeder explained that he has looked at the situation in the county and decided he was the better qualified person for the position “at this point in time.” A native of Erie, Pa., Schroeder

See APPOINTMENTS page 11A

Fourth of July Festival July 5 to 8 CONNEAUT - With July 4 falling on a Wednesday next year, Fourth of July Festival Chair Shelley Bailey was presented with two options for the four-day 2012 Fourth of July Festival: the weekend before Independence Day, or the weekend after. She chose the weekend after. “We could not get the ride company the weekend before, and I didn’t want to scramble to find a new one,” she said. That means that on July 4, local residents will have to hit the beach or backyard picnics rather than Lakeview Park. “We tried a five-day festival one year, and it was too long,” said former Fourth of July Festival Chair Tom Udell. Except for the calendar date, the Festival will look and feel like those of other years. Sam’s Amusements will fill Lakeview Park with games and rides for a fifth year. DQ-Conneaut Idol, Miss Fourth of July Pageants, live entertainment and the parade will return. The parade date is Saturday, July 7. Fireworks over Lake Erie will close out the festival on Sunday, July 8. Conneaut Area Chamber of Commerce executive director Wendy DuBey released the Fourth of July Festival schedule earlier this week, saying she knows that people are beginning to make 2012 summer plans. “I realize it’s only December, but we’ve already gotten several calls, and I think it’s because the 4th falls on a Wednesday,” she said. Nor is it too early to think about donating to the city’s Fireworks Fund, via the Chamber, by contacting DuBey at the Chamber at 440593-2402.

CENTS

GAZETTE NEWSPAPERS, INC.

A Madcap Merry Christmas

by MARTHA SOROHAN Gazette Newspapers

See SCHROEDER page 4A

PHOTO BY MARTHA SOROHAN

The biggest giant of them all appeared near the end of the Madcap Puppets’ “Jack and the Gentle Giant,” performed Tuesday evening at the American Legion by the Conneaut Public Library as a Christmas present to the community. The free program attracted about 100 people, and included punch and cookies and a visit from Santa Claus. Read more on page 12A.

John Williams Does It Again: City Recognized for Financial Reporting Excellence

Chamber Accepting ‘Citizen of the Year’ Nominations by MARTHA SOROHAN Gazette Newspapers

CONNEAUT — Who stands out in your mind as a person whose service to the community has helped move Conneaut forward during 2011? The Conneaut Area Chamber of Commerce is eager for names of such persons as it opens nominations for the city’s coveted “Citizen of the Year” award. You have just a few weeks — until Dec. 30 — to submit your nomination. The Citizen of the Year award recognizes outstanding community service, preferably over a period of years and over and above what one does for a living. Services should include current community service. “We’re seeking individuals who really stand out in the community, those whose contributions, in accordance with our mission, have made Conneaut a better place to live, work and play,” said Wendy DuBey, executive director of the Conneaut Area Chamber of Commerce. PHOTO BY MARTHA SOROHAN Recent winners have been At Monday night’s Conneaut City Council meeting, Conneaut Finance Director John Williams (left) and City Manager Tim Eggleston accepted a plaque for outstanding reporting in the city’s 2010 2010’s Lori McLaughlin, whose Comprehensive Annual Financial Report from Jim Armeni (second right), regional representative of community and county leadership helped grow the annual D-Day Auditor of State David Yost’s office. Also pictured is City Council President Tom Udell. Event, and 2009’s Penny Armeni, a tireless behind-the-scenes by MARTHA SOROHAN “This report goes to those with even one little thing, then you don’t worker for multiple organizations Gazette Newspapers a timely, clean report with no find- get it,” he said. and director of the Conneaut Comings and no material weaknesses At the end of the Council meet- munity Center for the Arts. CONNEAUT - Still battling the or deficiencies,” Armeni explained. ing, councilors one by one congratuNominations must be made in remnants of pneumonia, Conneaut As Armeni shook Williams’ lated Williams for his fine work. writing and include biographical Finance Director John Williams hand and handed him the plaque, “Keep up the good work,” said information pertinent to the was well enough to stand in front the always-modest Williams re- At-large Councilman John Roach, award. Nominations are open to of Conneaut City Council on Mon- sponded that it was his staff that while City Council President Tom the community, but selection will day night to receive what has be- had done an excellent job. Udell said that he has thanked be made by past Chamber presicome an annual award from Audi“But it’s an honor and a privi- Williams many times over. dents and former Citizens of the tor of State Dave Yost’s Office. lege to receive this on behalf of the Ward 3 Councilman Greg Mooney Year. Auditor representative Jim city,” he said. may have said it best, however, The Chamber is also accepting Armeni presented the Award of DisAfter the meeting, Williams “Congratulations to Mr. Will- nominations, from Chamber memtinction to Williams for excellence in admitted that the Award of Dis- iams,” he said. “I bet you’ve run out bers only, for the 2011 Chamber preparing the 2010 Comprehensive tinction is not easy to achieve. of room on the wall for your Annual Financial Report (CAFR). “If there is anything wrong, plaques.” See NOMINATIONS page 10A

2A • GAZETTE NEWSPAPERS

THURSDAY, DECEMBER 15, 2011

Cable Schedule

TOWN TALK Mike & Gail Kenyon report that the “special needs” daughter, “Daisey,” they plan to adopt from an Eastern European orphanage will not be in Conneaut in time for Christmas. Now that the couple’s paperwork has been accepted in that country, they await an invitation in three or four weeks to visit and meet Daisey for the first time. They expect to bring Daisey home four to six months following that trip, or around next May or June. Richard Lucas was recently interviewed by NBC’s Chuck Scarborough about his book on Millard Gillars, “Axis Sally: The Amercian Voice of Nazi Germany” who lived for a time in Conneaut. Lucas attended the 2011 D-Day Event and will return in 2012 to sell and sign his book. Renee Palagyi, director of the Ashtabula County Chapter of the American Red Cross, said that more than 5,000 cards were sent from Ashtabula County to military members serving overseas. The Red Cross had made a pitch to individuals and organizations

throughout the county this year, and they came through. Last year, Palagyi said fewer than 2,000 cards were sent. The Red Cross set up at its office tables with cards and supplies for volunteers to come in and create their own messages. Students at Conneaut Middle School, made cards at school, which were delivered to the Red Cross. Palagyi, of North Kingsville, said the response was phenomenal. Conneaut Area City Schools Board of Education President Nick Iarocci offered sympathy at the Nov. 22 school board meeting to the family of former BOE member John Specht . Specht, recently deceased, had served on the board for 24 years. “He will be missed,” Iarocci said.

Conneaut Area City Schools Superintendent Kent Houston has invited Lt. Joseph McHenry to speak at a teachers’ assembly 9 a.m. Jan. 3 that is open to the community. McHenry will discuss school lock-down procedures. Houston invited McHenry after he heard him speak at an administrators’ conference in August. “He was the highlight of the program,” Houston said. Jan. 3 is “waiver day,” the last day of Winter Break before students and teachers return to classes on Jan. 4. Girl Scout Cookie sales begin on Dec. 18. The entire Girl Scout cookie sale has been moved up this year by at least six weeks. Cookies may be ordered but will not be in before Christmas, of course. Order them through your favorite Girl Scout. And remember — Girl Scout Troop 80671 has cookbooks for sale featuring local recipes. Call Becky Hautala for cookbook information.

Also at the CBOE meeting, Gateway Elementary School Principal Liesl Blackwell thanked Mike Allshouse for building a ballet barre for students in the ballet class that is part of the end-of-the-day arts program at Gateway. Two area churches — Blackwell said Allshouse South Ridge Baptist and also donated the materials. Kelloggsville Church of the Nazarene — are holding “Christmas Eve” services on Wednesday, Dec. 21. Listings of Christmas worship services will be in The Courier this week and on Dec. 22.

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Ward 2 Councilman Charlie Lewis was dressed for the season at Monday night’s Council meeting, wearing a red tie with white snowflakes. If you see Lance Drew on Dec. 20, wish him a Happy Birthday. And thank him for volunteering many hours of filming and editing the Conneaut Christmas lights CDs for this season’s donors to the Conneaut Food Pantry. He and his wife, Debbie, are awaiting the imminent birth of another grandson. The Courier office will be closed for Christmas on Dec. 23.

Dec 13-20, 2011

Christmas Events for Conneaut Dec. 16-17 - Christmas program presented by the Conneaut Community Center for the Arts Dance Department, 7:30 p.m. Dec. 16 and 2 p.m. Dec. 17, 1025 Buffalo Street.. Dec. 17 - Santa’s Workshop and carriage rides, 5 to 7 p.m. at Lakeview Park. Free. Dec. 20 - Holiday Band/Choral Concert, 7 p.m. at Conneaut High School, 381 Mill Street. Dec. 25 - Free community Christmas dinner, noon to 2 p.m. at New Leaf United Methodist Church, 283 Buffalo Street.

Civic Meetings Conneaut Port Authority, 7 p.m. Dec. 15 Conneaut Public Library board, 5 p.m. Dec. 19 at 304 Buffalo Street Conneaut City Council, 7 p.m. Dec. 19 with swearing-in of new councilmen Conneaut Area City Schools Board of Education, 6 p.m. work session, 7 p.m. meeting Dec. 21 at Southeast Building, 2nd Floor, 400 Mill Street Conneaut City Council 7 p.m., Dec. 27 Conneaut Recreation Board, 7 p.m. Dec. 28 North Kingsville Village Council, 7 p.m. Dec. 21 at Municipal Building, 3541 Center Rd. Monroe Township Trustees, 7:30 p.m. Dec. 27 at 5578 S. Monroe Center Road Kingsville Township Trustees, 7 p.m. Dec. 28 at Fire Hall, 3130 Main Street

Senior Calendar

Thursdays The next gathering is Nov. 3. Dec. 15 - Christmas Party, with singing led by Duffy Guthrie. Watch out for Santa Claus!

CHRC Seniors Together

GSLC Community S.E.N.I.O.R.S People ages 50 and up are welcome the first and third Thursdays of the month at Good Shepherd Lutheran Church, 876 Grove Street. Health checks 9:45 a.m., 10 a.m. devotion, exercise and lunch the first and third

Religious Services: St. Mary St. Frances Cabrini: Sun & Wed 3pm / Weekdays 11 a.m. at 327 Mon & Thurs 1am Mill Street. Free. First United Church of Daily walking 7:30 a.m. Christ: Sun & Wed 4pm / Mon & Thurs 2am Dec. 15 - South Ridge New Leaf United MethChristian Academy students odist: Sun & Wed 5pm / Mon Dec. 16 - NO LUNCH & Thurs 3am WILL BE SERVED. Good Shepherd Dec. 20 - Nancy Lutheran: Sun & Wed 6pm Hutchens, R.N., “Healthy / Mon & Thurs 4am Series” Family Fellowship: Dec. 22 - Visit to “ChristMon and Thurs 1.30pm mas Past” Ashtabula PentecosDec. 26 - CENTER tal: Mon and Thurs 2.20pm CLOSED

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10.00 am Conneaut City Council Meeting 10.55 am Discover Conneaut, Ohio 11.00 am Hometown Happenings & Sports 11.20 am Community Christmas Music Program 12.55 pm First Baptist Kids Christmas 3.00 pm Mufon II Presentation 4.55 pm Life Is Better In Conneaut 5.15 pm Army Newswatch 5.40 pm Conneaut Board of Education Meeting 6.40 pm Come Wassailing 7.00 pm Conneaut City Council Meeting 7.55 pm Hometown Happenings & Sports 8.15 pm Community Christmas Music Program 9.50 pm First Baptist Kids Christmas 10.25 pm Come Wassailing 10.40 pm Conneaut Library Line 11.30 pm Conneaut Christmas Parade 12.20 am Conneaut Board of Education 1.20 am Voices of Hope Christmas Concert 3.15 am Conneaut City Council Meeting 4.10 am Discover Conneaut, Ohio 4.15 am Hometown Happenings & Sports 4.40 am Army Newswatch 5.05 am First Baptist Kids Christmas 5.40 am Community Christmas Music Program 7.00 am AM Live

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THURSDAY, DECEMBER 15, 2011

City Manager’s Report Dec. 12, 2011 PUBLIC WORKS DEPARTMENT SITE IMPROVEMENT PROJECT

GAZETTE NEWSPAPERS • 3A

CBOE Refinances Stadium Loan with Conneaut Savings Bank

To beautify the Public Works Department property on Broad and 16th St., the Public Works Director is looking to remove the concrete slabs exposed at the intersection and grade the property to a four-in-one slope so the area can be mowed. North Coast Construction will do the work at no charge other than they would like the concrete that is removed. This is a win/win for the city in that City crews do not have the time to do the work and the contractor is using his fuel and equipment which is a saving to the city budgets, and the project will enhance the look of the intersection. I believe this is just one small step in showing the community and potential investors and residents that the city is also taking stock in improving its facilities to improve the visual charter of the city which in turn enhances the quality of life in the community. This project will not have a negative impact on the use of the property.

EAST SIDE INDUSTRIAL PARK GAS SERVICE

PHOTO BY MARTHA SOROHAN

I have contacted Dominion East Ohio Gas to start discussion on the cost of installing a gas line down the new road to provide gas service to anyone wishing to locate in Conneaut.

The Dec. 22 meeting of the Conneaut Area City Schools Board of Education will be the last meeting for the current school board. Pictured (left) are Sonny Heinonen, Connie Jury, Nick Iarocci, Rob Eager and Mike Kennedy. Jury, Iarocci and Eager did not seek re-election in November. They will be replaced in January by Suzanne Bernardini, Joan Norton and Cris Newcomb.

ZONING REPORT

by MARTHA SOROHAN Gazette Newspapers

3 - Demolitions permits were issued 3 – Properties cited for trash and garbage 2 – Zoning permits for accessory structures issued 1 – Property maintenance to fix deteriorate stairs

CONNEAUT - Conneaut Area City Schools Board of Education granted at its Nov. 22 regular meeting flexibility in mathematics WIND TURBINE graduation requirements for Conneaut High School Work has not started yet but still hopeful that the com- (CHS) students to accommopany will have the work completed within the next two date those attending A-Tech weeks barring any adverse weather. (formerly the Ashtabula County Joint Vocational School). CHS Principal Dawn Zappitelli told the board dur-

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ing a pre-meeting work session that students completing their junior and senior years at A-Tech must take computer classes there, rather than math classes required at CHS. The Board also approved the refinancing of a $440,000 loan from Dave York Sports of Louisville, Ky., for new bleachers and press box built at Conneaut Municipal Stadium in 2010. The original loan between the school district and York had called for four annual payments due

July 1. But Gerald Eighmy, cochair of the project’s fundraising arm, the Conneaut Area Recreational Endowment (CARE), explained to the board during the work session that while pledges have been received to cover the cost of the project, the payment plan with York was not in synch with pledge receipts of the privatelyfunded project. As a result, he approached Conneaut Savings Bank, which agreed to refi-

nance the loan at 3 percent interest, down two points from the 5 percent interest rate of York’s loan. Because he will be paid in full by the end of the year, York agreed to forego the interest accrued on his loan so far. Conneaut Area City Schools Superintendent Kent Houston called it a positive move. “This better aligns the pledges to the payment

See CBOE page 10A

Non-Union City Employees Get Their Pay Raise by MARTHA SOROHAN Gazette Newspapers CONNEAUT - Nonunion city employees are breathing a sigh of relief after Conneaut City Council passed an ordinance authorizing new “maximum rates of pay” at Monday night’s regular meeting. The passage of the ordinance was relatively easy despite questions at the Nov. 29 Finance & Ordinance Committee Meeting and at Council’s Dec. 5 work session regarding the city’s ability to afford it, considering its announcement last month that

it had to find ways to overcome a budget shortfall in excess of $400,000 in 2012. On Monday, Ward 1 Councilman Dave Campbell asked during a discussion of the ordinance, in its first reading, whether the city might consider dividing the 4 percent raises into a threeyear program. “It’s easier to hand money out than take it away,” he said, aware that the 2013 budget shortfall is predicted to be considerably higher than that of 2012. “There are a lot of uncertainties with the prison and the economy.” Campbell said if he were

voting with his heart, he’d say yes to a 6 percent raise. “I could support this divided into thirds. I know that $2,000 raises are worth every penny but with today’s economics? No one is getting 3 percent pay raises. Let’s talk about it another week,” he said. Campbell was the lone hold-out, however. Ward 3 Councilman Greg Mooney tempered his “yes” vote by stating, “We’re approving these rates and you will do with them as you see fit?” City Manager Tim Eggleston responded that he will, since the ordinance

technically sets a maximum pay raise for the positions but guarantees no employee is granted one. However, Eggleston argued last week in favor of the raises, saying the non-union employees had not had a raise in several years, that their salaries were below those of city workers in other communities, and that raises were fair because union employees’ contracts guaranteed raises in 2012. Finance Director John Williams had said last week that the non-union employ-

See RAISE page 4A

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Sewer Rate Ordinance Moved to Second Reading by MARTHA SOROHAN Gazette Newspapers

Mooney and Charlie Lewis are giving the rate hike idea a run for its money. CONNEAUT - A little Mooney argued at Monover two years ago, a head- day night’s City Council line nearly identical to the meeting that he opposed one above graced the front keeping the 2010 rates in page of The Courier after place for a third year bethen-councilman Robert cause when the rate hike Naylor used a yellow chart was passed in 2010, the unto explain to City Council derstanding was that it why a sewer rate hike was would be used to pay off advisable — for one year debt. only. “That debt has been paid After much discussion off, so [if we pass this] we’ll that year, City Council just roll the 15 percent to passed a 15 percent one-year spend more. It’s done, and I sewer rate hike. Council won’t support it,” he said. passed it again a year ago Mooney was referring to and will likely pass it a third three major sewer departtime before year’s end, even ment debts that go back to though lame-duck Council- 1971. Annual payments of men Dave Campbell, Greg $53,000, $51,000 and

Cable Advisory Board Has A Vacancy by ALLAN MONONEN Gazette Newspapers CONNEAUT - Cable Advisory Board member Bill Lundgren submitted his resignation to the board at its 6 p.m. meeting Dec. 7, citing work commitments. Anyone interested in completing the remaining year of Lundgren’s appointment may submit a letter of interest to the City Manager. The CAB meets the third Wednesday of the month to discuss local cable operations, programming and equipment. Members are not compensated. The board also formally approved its 2012 budget. After cutting the budget for the three previous years, the board submitted the same amounts as 2011. The professional service contract for the part-time coordinator will remain at $20,540; telephone/communications $350; incidentals, $500; and equipment purchase stays at $5,000 for a total of $26,390. Franchise fees paid to the city from cable TV subscribers through monthly cable TV bills ex-

ceed by about four times the cost of local cable operations. During discussion, CAB member Jim Supplee informed the board that the mini T purchased last year has not been installed. It requires an IP license, which has not been purchased. The Mini T enables the system to be accessed from outside the office, making it easier for the coordinator, who lives in Erie, Pa., or members to manage the system, especially during an emergency. Supplee will check into the problem before the January meeting. Currently, if the system goes down, someone must go to the office and manually restart it. The system may remain out of service for some time if no one is immediately available. The board repeated its interest in residents’ submitting programs to air on the local access channel. Cameras are available to lend for local use to responsible and knowledgeable people. Coordinator Regis Galvin will train them. The CAB will meet 6 p.m. Jan. 18 in council chambers.

$215,000 have been due since the debt was incurred in 1971, 1987 and 1988, respectively. City Finance Director John Williams said when the sewer rates went up in 2010 that the debt would not be paid off until 2013, and could not be paid early. He said Monday night that $100,000 remains to be paid off next year. When Council first passed the rate hike, Wastewater Manager Craig Pearce had said that without it, he would have to lay off two employees, or one-fifth of the department. No such assertions have been made this year, but Williams said that without maintaining the status quo — the 15 percent is not an increase — the year-end carry-over would be in jeopardy and that the year-end carry-over is crucial to keep from having to borrow to pay for small projects without issuing notes. Williams said by keeping the current sewer rates, the carry-over from 2012 to 2013 will be $330,000, down from the ideal carry-over of $500,000 based on a $3 million sewer fund. “We still have a debt load,” he said. “Every fifty cents of every dollar goes to pay debt.” Campbell suggested dropping the rates by 3 or 5 percent to carry out a promise to voters, but Williams said that for every 5 percent drop in rates, the revenue goes down by $100,000. Such a drop would leave $233,000 in the carry-over fund, or less than 10 percent of the annual budget at the end of 2012. “I can do more studies if that’s how you want to go,” Williams said. “But if the carry-over gets too low, it’s difficult to maintain a positive fund balance.” He said that in 2010, the Sewer Department experienced only four months of a positive fund balance. He anticipates the current balance of $83,000 to nearly

double by year’s end. “It’s still below what we want,” he said. “But it’s up to Council.” Williams recommended to Council that the rates be unchanged, emphasizing that the city has had no water rate hike for three years. He said he has compared water rates in neighboring communities and found some are higher and others lower than Conneaut’s, but has done little research on sewer rates, countering Campbell’s contention that constituents have called him saying other communities’ sewer rates are 30 percent less. Lewis said he could support the maintaining of the current rates for no more than one year. “That way, there’s some hope that we’ll reduce them as we said two years ago. Or was it three? I lost track of time,” he said. “Yes, we said we’d look into it each year,” said Council President Tom Udell. City Manager Tim Eggleston suggested that council’s new Public Utility Committee study the rates early next year and propose a plan after reviewing them and what is needed in the sewer fund. Campbell said he was upset that when new Public Works equipment was purchased during the administration of former City Manager Robert Schaumleffel, the costs were divided among several city departments, including the Sewer Department. Campbell called it a “public stunt,” and Williams said that project cost the sewer fund $20,000. “I agree it wasn’t the best approach, but it was an attempt to consolidate the departments,” he said. “It can’t happen against because charter changes have changed it so the Public Works Director no longer has oversight over the sewer department.” Williams said the repay-

See SEWER page 4A

4A • GAZETTE NEWSPAPERS

THURSDAY, DECEMBER 15, 2011

Kingsville Library Christmas

Welcome, Richard Ogren

Children packed the Kingsville Public Library’s Simak Welcome Center on Dec. 3 for three sessions of Christmas parties, where Santa Claus (below, right) was a highlight of the event. Pictured right, Cheryl Brunnel and her daughter, Hannah, of Kingsville, enjoyed making ornaments, while (below) Edgewood Senior High School volunteers happily posed for a picture after assisting all day. They are: (front, with puppet) Kane Swanson; (middle, left) Jessica Reed, Sara Wilpula, Matt Burch and Kayla Wright; and (back row) Eric Hodges and Sierre Stadalsky. Kingsville Public Library will offer a Winter Break Movie “Smurfs” (PG) 2 p.m. Dec. 28. The movie is free. Free popcorn is given to those who bring a Kingsville Public Library card.

SUBMITTED PHOTOS

Sandra and Lawrence Ogren are proud to announce the birth of their son Richard James Ogren, on Aug. 15. Richard was born at Hillcrest Hospital in Mayfield Heights. He has an older brother, Adam, 18. Grandparents are Richard and Elizabeth Ogren, and the late Arlin & Emma Champlin of Conneaut.

Site Solver

RAISE

From page 3A

ees’ raises would cost the city $31,000, while new union contract raises were costing the city $200,000. When the vote was taken, the raises passed by 6-to-1. In his City Manager ’s Report, Eggleston said that repair work on the lakefront wind turbine that was struck by lightning in August had not yet begun even though NexGen had promised to begin on Dec. 5. He also said that a firm doing “noisy” testing in the city was gone. That extension cords had been placed down Broad Street to test seismic activity raised suggestions of enacting city guidelines regarding “fracking,” the controversial gas well drilling method. Law Director David Schroeder said that discus-

sions with the Ohio governor ’s office to remediate the question of law enforcement at Lake Erie Correctional Institution once state ownership ends Jan. 1 are not resolved, but he is optimistic they will be “successfully concluded” on behalf of the city. He said that per the governor’s word, agencies and directors involved in the solutions have been in regular contact. Council passed an ordinance prohibiting truckers’ use of engine, or “jake” brakes in the city, with the exception of I-90. Council had been prepared to pass an ordinance prohibiting these brakes within city limits until Campbell on Dec. 5 questioned impact on I-90 and Route 7.

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Law Director David Schroeder last week researched engine brake ordinances in other communities with interstate highways and told Council such an ordinance could outline the areas exempt from prohibition or signs could be posted in those exempt areas. Council opted to exempt not only vehicles on I90, but commercial vehicles which utilize the engine brake in response to an emergency situation. Emergency vehicles are also exempt. Council also approved an ordinance authorizing the City Manager to apply for the Clean Ohio Assistance Fund to begin Phase II of the Astatic property at Broad & Jackson to determine what has to be done to clean up the site. The 2012 city budget ordinance was also in first reading on Monday night, but it was moved to a second reading because some council members had just received copies prior to the meeting and needed time to look at it. Council approved two resolutions. One opposes central collection of munici-

pal income taxes by the state of Ohio. “I reiterate my opposition. This is not a good idea,” said Finance Director John Williams. The second is an annual Ohio Revised Code-mandated exercise to accept amounts determined by the Budget Commission and authorizing tax levies and certifying them to the Ashtabula County Auditor. Williams recommended that council move to a second reading an ordinance to amend the 2011 budget through interfund transfers. He had missed work due to illness and said that he wanted more time to go over it. Council approved a general fund transfer of $36,250 to the Street Department, Litter Control, Cemeteries, Fire Pension Fund, and the Tree Commission. Council adjourned to executive session at 7:55 p.m. to discuss personnel and real estate. The Dec. 19 7 p.m. work session will include the swearing-in of new councilmen Doug Hedrick, Phil Garcia and Rich McBride. They will take their seats in January.

SEWER ment plan charging the sewer department for Public Works purchases cannot be changed. “The payments have to come out in equal proportion,” he said. “We’ve let our citizens down,” Campbell said. Mooney said that he had never seen a year-end carryover of more than 20 percent and could not support the ordinance to maintain the current rates. Two years ago, council members had expected the automated meter readers

From page 3A (AMRs) might result in more water and sewer revenue by replacing aging meters, but this has not materialized, due in part to the loss of industry and lower water usage by residents. “We needed 15 percent hike to retire the debt, and we retired the debt,” Mooney said. “I can’t support it.” With that, at-Large Councilman Neil LaRusch ended the discussion by moving Ordinance #112-11 to second reading, which delays it to Dec. 27.

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Do you know the location of this Site Solver? Be the first to call its location to The Courier (440) 576-9125, ext. 116, starting 5 p.m. Dec. 15, and you will win an oil change (cars only) from Osburn Tire & Automotive, 4804 Caleb Ave., Kelloggsville. Last week’s Site Solver was a fish on the wall of the Conneaut Public Library. Winner was Janet Clark. (Please note that Site Solver responses are not considered before 5 p.m.)

Conneaut’s Creative Writing The Jesus Ideal by Meryl Taylor Jesus is the ideal, not the ideology... not statuary in sweet repose or icon revered. Even if the epitome of how we should respond to one another. Even if the belief is not in the man, even if religion does not come into play, adhering to a concept of kindness is the next best move. A fellowship of understanding, a kinship of love, a brotherhood of caring... what it means to be a human being, evolved from a central idea, lessons sent across the ages by good men, vulnerable women A wisdom wrought from gentle purpose dispersed to the masses not a belief but an action.

SCHROEDER has lived in Ohio since 1977. A graduate of Cleveland Marshall Law School, he began practicing law in the state in 1981. He recently moved to Ashtabula County. Schroeder is no stranger to the county prosecutor’s office. He worked there under former county prosecutor Greg Brown, and stayed through Sartini’s transition. Since 1996, he has had a private law office in Ashtabula with attorney William Bobulsky. If Schroeder is elected, Conneaut will be looking for a new part-time law director. “Council is aware of it,” he said. Schroeder said he could

From page 1A

not help noticing that at the meeting with more than 30 state, county and city officials at Kent State University Nov. 16 to discuss law enforcement matters pertaining to the sale of Lake Erie Correctional Institution to Corrections Corporation of America, not a single attorney from Sartini’s office was in attendance. “This is a $72.3 million dollar sale in this county,” Schroeder said. “Who was missing from the meeting?” Schroeder, who is making his first bid for public office, expects a tough campaign. “Any time you take on a career politician, it’s an uphill fight,” he said.

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GAZETTE NEWSPAPERS • 5A

At Home With.... Vickie Marcy

Pharmacy & Health Pneumonia: Risk Factors & Treatment Pneumonia is an infection of the lower respiratory tract, which is most commonly caused by the bacteria Streptococcus pneumoniae. Influenza virus infection can also lead to pneumonia, particularly in persons at an increased risk for developing the condition. Pneumonia occurs most commonly during the winter months. The condition may affect persons in the community (CAP or community-acquired pneumonia) or hospitalized persons (hospital-acquired pneumonia). Symptoms include shortness of breath, increased heart rate, cough, and fever. Persons who smoke are encouraged to stop. The pneumococcal vaccine may be recommended for certain persons based on the risk of infection. Antibiotics are usually prescribed for the treatment of pneumonia. Amoxicillin (Moxatag)

by Kerry Gerdes Gerdes Pharmacy 245 Main St. 593-2578 may be prescribed for children. A macrolide antibiotic, such as azithromycin (Zithromax), clarithromycin (Biaxin), or erythromycin (Erythrocin) may be prescribed for eligible persons who are otherwise healthy. Other medications that might be prescribed include doxycycline (Vibramycin), or fluoroquinolones such as moxifloxacin (Avelox) or levofloxacin (Levaquin). If influenza infection occurs with the pneumonia, oseltamivir (Tamiflu) and zanamivir (Relenza) are antiviral medications that may be prescribed.

Hi everyone! Wow, here we are just nine days away from Christmas and I’m not ready! I’ve been a little under the weather and the time has just slipped away so now I’ve really got to hustle to get things done. How the heck did fifty weeks zip by so fast?!? We were just talking about getting the ground ready for the spring planting, followed by the heat of summer and now we’re heading into another new year in a couple of weeks. Help!! I need to find a way to slow time down a little so I can enjoy every day instead of getting up and rushing around and the days blur into one another and the next thing you know, you look around and wonder: where did the time go? Just because I’m retired doesn’t mean I’ve got long endless days of nothing to do, in fact, it seems like there’s more to do now that I’m not working outside the home anymore. How does that work?!? I never seem to get caught up with what I want to do (and have to do) so it seems like the day just flies by and the next thing you know it’s time for bed. Do you think it has anything to do with getting

Rec Basketball Sign Ups Underway The Conneaut Recreation Board Basketball League for boys and girls in grades three to six is holding sign-ups through Dec. 19 for league play that begins in January. Forms are available at the schools and the Conneaut Public Library, 304 Buffalo Street. For further information, contact Jason Picard (440-969-4866).

Letter To The Editor

older? If that’s the answer then I only have one thing to say about that: NO!! I’m too young to feel so old and tired, I need to find a way to slow time down. PECAN TARTS • 3 cups flour • 1 1/2 cups butter • 8 oz. cream cheese Cut butter and cream cheese into flour, form into Vickie Marcy ball, cover and chill for one hour. Shape into 1" balls, • 2- green pepper, place in miniature muffin diced pans, and press down and up • 1/2- Cup long grain sides. Set aside while you rice make the following filling: • 1 tsp. seasoned salt • 1-large can tomato • 2 large eggs juice • 1/2 cup corn syrup • 2-15 oz. cans tomato • 1/2 cup sugar • 1 tbs. melted butter • 1 tsp. vanilla • 1 cup chopped pecans

Dear Editor: On behalf of Conneaut City Council and the City of Conneaut, we would like to extend our condolences to the family of Cindy (Wick) Benn from Conneaut, who sadly died in a farm-related accident in Springfield Township, Pa., on Dec. 7. Dave Campbell, Ward 1 Councilman Conneaut

Conneaut Public Library Events

Last chance for Conneaut Public Library raffles!

New session of “PM Workout,” with Sally Mucci, gets underway the week of Jan. 9. Seven week session ranges from $27.50 for once a week, $38.50 for twice a week or $6.50 per “pop-in” class. Classes are held 6:30 to 7:30 p.m. Mondays and Wednesdays.

Drawings will take place at the Conneaut Public Holiday Hours at the CCCA: Dec. 23 - 9 a.m. to noon; Library’s Christmas party Dec. 22 for the Jewelry Raffle Dec. 24, 25, 26 - Closed; Dec. 27-29, 9 a.m. to 5 p.m., Dec. and the Childrens’ Holiday Basket Raffle. Tickets are $1 30, 31, Jan. 1, 2 - Closed. Classes resume Jan. 3. apiece or six for $5. The SEA (Sea Horse Education) program’s jewelry raffle will help care for the library’s male and female seahorses, Coral and Stormy. Winner receives a crystal seahorse necklace and sea life jelly bracelets by Cookie Lee valued at $40.

Breast Cancer Support Group meets Jan. 16

Children’s Holiday Basket Raffle

The “P-in-C Warriors,” the local breast cancer support group, will celebrate with a post-hoilday party 6 p.m. Jan. 16 at 6000 Furnace Road. A light dinner will be provided. Attendees are asked to bring dessert. A white elephant gift exchange will be offered. Everyone who attends will receive a gift. Anyone touched by breast cancer in any way is welcome to enjoy holiday spirit in a private setting. To RSVP or for more information, contact Tracy or Mike David (440-594-1338) or visit thepincwarriors@yahoo.com.

The Friends of the Conneaut Public Library are sponsoring a Children’s Holiday Basket Raffle. The basket includes a Folkmanis Fox Puppet, the book Fantastic Mr. Fox by Roald Dahl, and a DVD The Fantastic Mr. Fox. The Conneaut Public Library will celebrate Christmas all day on Dec. 22, with raffle drawings and more. Come dressed in your favorite Christmas sweater to be eligible to win a special prize. Conneaut Public Library will be closed on Dec. 23 and Dec. 26.

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Before you begin baking, assemble all of the ingredients, bowls, utensils, etc. on your work surface so you won’t have to run back and forth between your fridge and cupboards. Keep the kitchen sink full of hot soapy water, and wash utensils, bowls, etc. as you go and you won’t have a lot of clean-up when you’re done baking.

Mix together all of the 1025 Buffalo St. (440) 593-5888 above ingredients, fill muffin cups 2/3 full. Bake at 375¡ for 10 - 12 minutes until fillThe Conneaut Community Center for the Arts’ Dance ing is set and tarts are Department will present a Christmas program, “How the golden brown. Grinch Stole Christmas & LesPatineurs” at 7:30 p.m. GREEN PEPPER SOUP Dec. 16 and 2 p.m. Dec. 17 under the direction of dance • 2# ground chuck, director Tessa Deutsch, Meghann Stell and Penny Armeni. browned until no longer This program is free, with donations accepted. pink New four-week session of adult Woodcarving classes, • 1- small onion, diced with instructor Terri Schultz, begins Jan. 5. Woodcarving is held 7 to 9 p.m. Thursdays. Supplies are furnished for beginners. Fee is $28 non-members and $25.20 CCCA members.

Kingsville Public Library “Movie Matinee” Holiday Party Kingsville Public Library will offer a Movie Matinee 2 p.m. Dec. 28 at the Simak Welcome Center, 3205 School Street. The free movie is “Smurfs,” rated PG. Free popcorn will be handed out to those with Kingsville Public Library cards. The Friends of the Kingsville Public Library will sell other refreshments.

Mix all ingredients together in crock pot, cover. Turn heat to high until bubbling, turn heat to low and cook 6 - 8 hours.

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6A • GAZETTE NEWSPAPERS

THURSDAY, DECEMBER 15, 2011

Norris Kelly Leading Choir at First UCC by MARTHA SOROHAN Gazette Newspapers

meeting at the White Turkey this past summer that led to Kelly’s hiring at First UCC. CONNEAUT - Thanks to “‘Norris!’ Joyce said to me. the direction of Norris Kelly, “‘I have something to talk to a choir has returned to First you about,’” he said. Congregational United The chance meeting came Church of Christ. at the perfect time for Kelly Kelly, an Akron Public as well as Shellhammer, who Schools administrator with was anxious to honor church a powerful voice, is back in members’ requests to resurhis home town directing the rect a choir. And after years adult choir at the urging of in educational administralay pastor Joyce tion, Kelly had come to the point in his life where he Shellhammer. Her request was hard to wanted to sing. Kelly had earned a secturn down, Kelly said, because he has known her al- ond degree in communicamost all his life. tive disorders at Oberlin, “I’ve known her since I and had gone on to study was 8 or 9. She was a kin- speech/language pathology dergarten teacher at Monroe and audiology at the UniverElementary School when I sity of Denver. “I had a ‘full ride’ to Denwas in third grade,” said ver, so I couldn’t really afford Kelly. When he eventually en- to turn down the opportutered the educational field, nity,” he said. after earning a Bachelor of Studying in Denver unMusic Degree in vocal per- der Dr. Richard Berry, a formance at Oberlin College Texas university provost, Conservatory of Music, their Kelly recalls that his roompaths crossed again. mate was so impressed with “She was the principal at his voice that he questioned Southeast Elementary,” said why he was studying educaKelly, “and I ended up as a tion. principal in Elyria and Ak“I had to support myself. ron. We kept in touch I couldn’t just wait for my through her son, Paul, who ‘big break,’” Kelly told him. is an organist.” Another factor was that he But it was a random comes from a line of educa-

SUBMITTED PHOTO

Norris Kelly, new choir director at First Congregational United Church of Christ, rehearses the choir during a Sunday morning rehearsal. tors. His mother was a teacher. “Education is important,” he said. And the years were not wasted. Kelly’s Master’s Degree in Speech Pathology has given him not only an expertise in vocal health and

vocal pedagogy, but is leading him to pursue a Ph.D. at The Ohio State University to tie in vocal performance and pathology at the college level. “I can continue my studies or finish my PhD. to complete my love of education by

The Real Meaning of Christmas at First UCC SUBMITTED PHOTOS

Sunday was a special day at First Congregational United Church of Christ, where the youth group was busy wrapping gifts for the HALO family adopted this holiday season. They are (front, left) Tiffany Ferl, Clay Brown, Luke Lundgren, Matt McBride, Jonathan West, and Ben Mittlestadt; and (standing, left) Alyssa Bennett, Mackenzie Carraher, John Lower, Adam Laitinen, Jake Kehoe, Julia Krieg and Pam Laitinen. Santa Claus (left) also paid a visit during morning worship, reminding children how sad it is that some youngsters do not understand that the real meaning of Christmas is the celebration of Jesus’ birth.

teaching voice on the college level, by specializing in the atmosphere of vocal pedagogy,” he said. “or, from pathology to professional voice for singers. I want to help students — maybe those who are engineers, but who want to sign — have the ‘ahha!’ moments about what they can do, to have them listen to the old guy who says you have lots of opportunities. There is a place for everyone in the arts.” Kelly loves all aspects of music. A recent performer in the acclaimed musical, “Paul: A Musical Journey,” with the Arlington Church of God in Akron, he is former personnel manager with the Houston, Tex., Symphony and also serves on the voice faculty at the Cleveland Music Settlement, where he works with adolescents to adults. “Many adolescents come from the Cleveland School of Performing Arts. I also have workshops in vocal health and pedagogy, including vocal care for professionals who use their voices every day,” he said. For his newest part-time position that began in October, Kelly drives to Conneaut —where his wid-

owed father, Norris, still lives — to lead a 15-member choir the second and fourth Sundays of the month. He calls 15 a healthy number. “Some people want to sing in the choir, but can’t, due to their schedules. Some come when they can. We have more women, but at least five men, both tenors and basses,” he said. “Some read music and others do not, and those who do help the others along.” The choir is slowly building up a repertoire consisting of music sung by past First UCC choirs and more complex music as skills develop. That there are no midweek choir rehearsals is a bonus for some, but it does mean members’ getting up on Sundays for 9 a.m. rehearsals under the accompaniment of Janet Smith. Kelly likes to keep things “democratic,” with the group reaching consensus on issues. He is also teaching them vocal “tricks of the trade.” “It’s user-friendly,” he said. “I explain things and

See KELLY page 7A

Church Sign: Help is just a prayer away. - New Leaf United Methodist Church

Religious Briefs A Children’s Christmas program will be held 6 p.m. Dec. 18 at First Assembly of God, 389 W. Main Road, featuring the Children’s Bell Choir with recitations and music. Christmas cookies and milk will follow in Fellowship Hall. Family Fellowship Foursquare Gospel Church, 641 Mill Street, will hold a special Christmas service at 4 p.m. Dec. 18, followed by a ham and turkey dinner. All we welcome. At 11 a.m. worship Dec. 18, the fourth Sunday of Advent at Good Shepherd Lutheran Church, Grove Street at Lake Road, readers are Mike Bidwell (8:30 a.m. contemporary worship) and Shirley Harco (11 a.m. traditional worship). No mid-week Advent service will be held this week. The Rev. Scott Walsh, pastor, will preach on ‘Christmas Surprise!” at 9 a.m. contemporary worship and on “Jesus Genes II” at 11 a.m. traditional worship for the fourth Sunday of Advent Dec. 18 at New Leaf United Methodist Church, 283 Buffalo Street. Becky Levering will direct the choir in “The Carol of the Star.” Greeters for the Fourth Sunday of Advent Dec. 18 at First Congregational United Church of Christ, Main & Buffalo Streets, are Audrey Punkar and Nancy Baker. Liturgist will be Shane Brown. The Sunday School children will present a Christmas program under the direction of Janet Smith. The Jim Kennedy family will light the Angel Candle on the Advent Wreath. Pastor Joyce Shellhammer’s meditation is entitled, “Angels from the Realm of Glory.” Pianist is Jim Fuller. A Christmas dinner hosted by the church family will welcome HALO families after worship.

“Friday Night Live” Continues During Advent at NLUMC by MARTHA SOROHAN Gazette Newspapers CONNEAUT - The Rev. Scott Walsh, pastor of New Leaf United Methodist Church, says that the “Friday Night Live” services offered 6 p.m. during Advent may continue in January. Walsh said the idea to offer Friday night worship came after the overwhelming success of the free Friday evening community dinners, served from 5 to 6 p.m., along with comments

from people who said they would like to attend church, but their work schedules do not permit it. “I have heard from nurses, especially, who have to work Sunday mornings,” he said. With so many people in Fellowship Hall on Friday night, that evening seemed like a logical time to offer casual, contemporary worship. “It’s something we’re trying, during Advent,” he said. “We’ll see whether people want it to continue.” Pleased with the growth and activ-

ity at New Leaf, Walsh stressed that a new building is definitely needed to handle it. The church purchased property last year on Gateway Avenue. “Have you seen our parking lots on Sunday mornings?” he asked, referring not only to the small church lot, but the lot behind the old Carnegie Library on State Street. “There is simply no more room.”

Church of God Church of God, 5327 Center Road, will offer 6 p.m. Christmas Eve Candlelight and Communion service, and 10:30 a.m. worship Christmas morning. No service Christmas night. Family Fellowship Foursquare Gospel Church Family Fellowship Foursquare Gospel Church, 641 Mill St., will hold a Christmas service 4 p.m. Dec. 18, followed by ham and turkey dinner. Christmas Day worship is 10:30 a.m. No evening service will be held Dec. 25. First Assembly of God First Assembly of God, 389 W. Main Road, will celebrate Christmas Eve with 6 p.m. Candlelight Service with an illustrated sermon, “One Christmas Candle.” On Christmas Day, Pastor George Fink will preach on “Christmas and Communion” at the Christmas Family Communion Service at 10:30 a.m.

Friday Night Live! Advent worship is held 6 to 6:45 p.m. in the Sanctuary of New Leaf United Methodist Church, 283 Buffalo Street, following free dinner at 5 p.m. All are welcome.

CHURCH MEALS

New Leaf United Methodist Church, Main & Buffalo “Friday Night Live” Worship Service will be held in the sanctuary from Streets, will serve its free Friday dinner, prepared by Dave Jones, from 5 to 6 p.m. Dec. 16. This week’s menu is 6 p.m. to 6:45 p.m. through Dec. 23 Roast Pork and Stuffing, real mashed potatoes & gravy, Crazy Dave’s Dinner Rolls and assorted desserts. Casual, contemporary worship follows 6 p.m.

Christmas Worship in Conneaut Amboy United Methodist Church Amboy United Methodist Church, 554 W. Main Road, will hold Christmas Eve candlelight service at 7 p.m., with a skit, “The Twelve Days of Christmas.” Christmas Day worship is 11 a.m.

Greeters for 11 a.m. worship Dec. 18 at First Baptist Church, 370 State St., are Kathy Drew, Audrey Corcoran and Jim & Gerri Conroy. At 4 p.m. Dec. 18, church members will go caroling at homes of shut-ins and nursing homes, then return to church for food and fellowship.

Christmas morning worship is 11 a.m. in the Dining Room. Good Shepherd Lutheran Church Good Shepherd Lutheran Church, Grove Street at Lake Road, will hold Christmas Eve contemporary family worship 4 p.m. and traditional Candlelight Worship 7 p.m. On Sunday, Dec. 25, a “unity worship service” will be held 10 a.m. featuring Blessing of the Toys. Children are encouraged to bring a Christmas toy. Holy Communion is celebrated at all services.

New Leaf United Methodist Church, 283 Buffalo Street, will offer free Christmas dinner in Fellowship Hall from noon to 2 p.m. Dec. 25. The community is welcome.

Soup Kitchen Open Dec. 17

Kelloggsville Church of the Nazarene Kelloggsville Church of the Nazarene, 4841 Route 84, Due to Christmas Eve and New Year’s Eve falling on will have a candlelight service 7 p.m. Wednesday, Dec. 21, Saturdays, the Soup Kitchen, “Mary’s Kitchen,” run by St. and 11 a.m. service Christmas Day. Mary/St. Frances Cabrini Parish will serve lunch this month from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. Dec. 17. Homemade soup, Kingsville Presbyterian Church Christmas Eve worship is 7 p.m. at Kingsville Presby- breads and dessert will be served. All are welcome. terian Church, 3056 W. Main Street, Christmas Day worship is 10 a.m. New Leaf United Methodist Church New Leaf United Methodist Church, 283 Buffalo Street, will hold 6 and 11 p.m. Candlelight Christmas Eve services. Christmas Day worship is 9 a.m. contemporary in Fellowship Hall and 11 a.m. traditional worship in the Sanctuary.

First Baptist Church, Conneaut North Kingsville Presbyterian Church First Baptist Church, 370 State St., will hold a CandleNorth Kingsville Presbyterian Church, 6546 Church St., light Christmas Eve service 6:30 p.m., and Christmas mornwill host 7 p.m. Candlelight Communion service on Christing worship 11 a.m. mas Eve. On Christmas Day, worshippers may attend 10:30 First Baptist Church, Kingsville a.m. service at Trinity Presbyterian Church, 1342 W. ProsFirst Baptist Church, 6003 Route 193, will celebrate pect, Ashtabula. Christmas Eve with 7 p.m. candlelight service. One serSouth Ridge Baptist Church vice will be held Christmas Day at 10:45 a.m. South Ridge Baptist Church will celebrate Christmas First Congregational United Church of Christ Eve with a candlelight service at 7 p.m. Wednesday, Dec. First Congregational United Church of Christ will have 21. Christmas morning worship is 10:30 a.m. There will Christmas Eve Candlelight and Communion service at 9 p.m. be no evening worship on Dec. 25.

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THURSDAY, DECEMBER 15, 2011

GAZETTE NEWSPAPERS • 7A

“Day In Court” Today I was going to court with a few of my classmates. Upon arrival to court, we were welcomed by Judge Harris. He started off by reading the defendants their rights. As the day pressed on, we experienced traffic cases and theft. Though none of these went to trial, I had a good time and thought the judge handled his courtroom well and enforced the rules. by Breana Sprinkle There are a lot of good benefits from this courtroom experience, like finding a new career, learning wrong from right and learning what not to do. In a real courtroom, the judge does a better job than the ones on television. In between about a few cases, he had allowed us to ask questions in order to help us understand what his job is about. I asked about the name of the accused. He told me the proper name of the accused is called the defendant. In conclusion, I appreciated listening for the first time, Ms. Bernay for giving us the chance to experience this, the judge for showing us his job, and the Rotary Club. I hope I never go to court for something bad. I enjoyed the experience and respect the court allowed me to have.

“Showtime” for Conneaut Public Library Teens

PHOTO BY MARTHA SOROHAN

Conneaut Public Library “volunteens” Ryan Burdette (left), Lyle Sallade, Rebecca Sallade, and Heather Weaver are filming “book trailers” under the guidance of Stephanie Gildone (left), Conneaut Public Library Youth Services Coordinator. by MARTHA SOROHAN Gazette Newspapers

CONNEAUT - Do you remember “Reading RainSprinkle’s is one of six winning essays written by bow?” Conneaut Middle School eighth-graders following the “My Conneaut Public Day In Court” field trip to Conneaut Municipal Court. Library’s teen volunteers, dubbed “VolunTeens,” are filming book trailers, “Reading Rainbow” style, which premiered over the library’s “Library Line” program airing on Conneaut Cable TV channels and posted onto YouTube. The first trailer they completed, for “Green Angel,” by Alice Holtman, has been posted on YouTube. It was followed in November Air Force Airman Bryon A. Nagle graduated from an by “Ghost and the Goth,” eight-week program of basic military training at Lackland the last of a trilogy by Air Force Base, San Antonio, Tex. Sacey Kade of Columbus. The airman studied military discipline and studies, Air “It’s just like a video Force core values, physical fitness, and basic warfare prin- book ‘teaser,’ with snippets ciples and skills. The son of Jami Greer of Conneaut, Nagle is a 2011 graduate of Edgewood Senior High School.

In The Military

Air Force Airman Nagle Graduates From Basic Training

Alumni Calendar

Rowe High School ‘53-54 Rowe High School Classes of 1953/54 will meet for breakfast 9 a.m. Dec. 20 at Perkins in Conneaut. Spouses and guests are welcome. The class will meet next at 9 a.m. Tuesday, Jan. 3, at Perkins in Conneaut.

KELLY keep it moving. It’s a great collaboration.” Just two months into the new position, Kelly envisions the choir growing beyond its two-Sundays-amonth worship service schedule. The choir sang with the mass choir numbers at Sunday’s Community Christmas Concert at First Assembly of God, and plans to sing on Christmas Eve. “It’s a joy to sing in the First UCC sanctuary because there are absolutely no sound problems,” Kelly said. “There’s a lot of marble.” Kelly says he grew up

From page 6 singing at all the churches in Conneaut and has worked at many others in Colorado and Northeast Ohio, including Trinity Cathedral in downtown Cleveland. But this is his first time directing a church choir. “I enjoy the humor that you can use with adults, and I like their commitment,” he said. “They want to sing and they’re singing to glorify God.” Shellhammer could not agree more. “Norris has done a great job with our choir and he is very nice person. We are blessed to have him,” she said.

SUBMITTED PHOTO

Harpist Sue Krieg accompanies Norris Kelly, tenor.

of the book,” said Conneaut Public Library Youth Services Coordinator Stephanie Gildone, who is coordinating the effort and oversees the VolunTeens. “It’s been so much fun.” Giving “snippets” of the book means acting out some of the parts, rather than showing teens speaking directly into the camera, raving about the book. For the “Ghost and the Goth” trailer, the group obtained a ouija board as a prop to spell out “Ghost” and “Goth.” They also acted out some of the scenes. “Ryan does his magic, and — oh my gosh! — we all got chills at the end,” said Gildone. That would be Ryan Burdette, a senior at

Conneaut High School, who has a way with editing. Heather Weaver, a Conneaut High School sophomore, has been setting up the shots and scenes, while Ryan Burdette, a CHS senior, has been doing much of the editing. Gildone said the teens select the books by researching on line for something with the right balance — not too simple, but not too complicated — that works well in a one- or twominute teaser. “We give enough to make people want to read the book,” said Gildone. “If it’s too long, it’s not as effective.” “They are all learning how to film,” said Gildone. Also participating in the most recent project were

Lyle Sallade, Conneaut Middle School 7th grader; and his sister, Rebecca, a CHS sophomore. “We are looking for more students to join the effort,” Gildone said. The number of VolunTeens usually peaks in the summer, Gildone said, to help with the library’s Summer Reading program, but the program continues year-round. Teens meet about once a week, usually after school on Fridays, to work on the project using library video cameras. Gildone said the exercise is a good means of teaching the teens about filming and video production. All teens are welcome. If interested, call Gildone at the library (440) 593-1608.

CMS Students Bowling for Food

by MARTHA SOROHAN Gazette Newspapers CONNEAUT - The shelves of the Conneaut Food Pantry will soon be filled with non-perishable food items collected during Conneaut Middle School’s “Cap-A-Bowl” food drive. Organized by school secretary Julie Sedmak, the December drive has brought in about 19 boxes of food, making it one of the most successful holiday food drives in school history. Sedmak credits its success to the motivator. Homerooms that collect at least 20 cans are eligible to select three representatives to participate in a bowling tournament that takes place in the school halls from the time students begin arriving each morning, about 7:40 a.m., until the first bell rings twenty minutes later. El Camp Lanes’ Pat Cifelli donated the bowling pins. Tournament brackets are posted on the wall and updated daily. Since the bowling tournament began on Dec. 6, 45 students have qualified. The homeroom of the tournament winner will earn a pizza party. “We’ve been bowling every day,” Sedmak said. “Sometimes entire homerooms will come down and watch their representatives.” Sedmak expects to wind up the fund-raiser prior to

SUBMITTED PHOTO

Conneaut Middle School 7th graders Adam Laitinen (left), Brianna Oatman and Alexis Nelson help with the school’s morning bowling tournaments that are serving as a reward for CMS homerooms that collected at least 20 cans of food during a holiday drive for the Conneaut Food Pantry. the start of Winter Break on Dec. 23. “I want to wind up before Christmas so that we can take the canned goods over the Conneaut Food Pantry. It should be a nice surprise,” she said. Sedmak said that while food contributions are winding down, the bowling tournament is a hot topic

of conversation. “The kids talk every day and ask who won, but I tell them they have to listen to the afternoon announcements to find out,” Sedmak said. Though she has organized the food drive, Sedmak says the gimmick that has eased the countdown to Winter Break did

not originate with her. “It’s kind of a spin-off from the Turkey Bowl on Fox8 News [in Cleveland],” she said. “When Principal Linda Bernay said she wanted to do a food drive for the holidays, I suggested that we make it like the Turkey Bowl. We’ve had a lot of food drives, but this is our biggest one yet.”

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THURSDAY, DECEMBER 15, 2011

CBOE schedule,” he said. “Now we have money to pay for the bleachers and to move forward.” “It’s nice that Conneaut Savings Bank stepped up, so [the loan] is a local hold,” added CBOE member Mike Kennedy. The school board also approved a Conneaut High School National Honor Society trip to New Orleans May 17 to 19. In presenting the proposed trip to the board, NHS Advisor Emily Wacker said she offered the group options of visiting Toronto, Gettysburg/Philadelphia, San Francisco or New Orleans. New Orleans was preferred, she said. The group plans to fly from Akron/Canton and return via a night flight on Saturday, May 19. Round-trip air fare is about $315. “Safety is our number one concern,” she said, assuring the board that teachers will chaperone and there will be nighttime supervision at the hotel. The booking company has been used in past years and she described it as “reputable.” “We will have the same tour guide as last year [in New York City,” she said. “I feel comfortable taking them.” Wacker hopes that fundraisers will whittle the perstudent cost to about $425, comparable to the 2011 trip. She hopes to offer “not your typical” fund-raisers such as spaghetti dinners and a dance, something people “like to do” rather than selling. The trip excluding air fare will cost about $555 per student, based on roughly 50 people. Approving the request, the board wished Wacker “lots of luck,” then complimented her

From page 3A directing of the successful CHS drama, “The Mousetrap,” staged by the Thespians in mid-November. The board also adopted new procedures and policies for tracheotomy care and suctioning, gastrostomy tube feeding, and mechanical ventilator usage with regard to a patient attending the Conneaut schools while residing at Lake Pointe Rehabilitation & Nursing Center. Just two days after she began attending classes, however, her private nurse resigned. Karen Kehoe, Director of Special Services, noted during the work session that the student is unable to attend school without a nurse. The private nurse job had been posted. The board approved a new copying and postage system contract with Pitney Bowes which saves the district $5 per month while providing a brand new machine. In personnel matters, certified employee Jessica Kennedy was issued a continuing contract, $50,679, effective Sept. 30. Kennedy had had a continuing contract in the district where she was formerly employed, and according to Ohio Revised Code, continuing contracts are transferable to new districts for teachers marking two years of employment. Kennedy’s father-in-law, CBOE member Mike Kennedy abstained from the vote. Certified teachers rewarded with pay increases for completing additional education, effective with the start of the 2011-2012 school year, are Lisa Andrejack ($49,045), Courtney Case ($45,775) and Denise Miller ($45,775). Miller was also approved for maternity leave Jan. 3 through May 21, using sick leave, if necessary, until her return. Maternity leave was approved for certified em-

ployee Katie Newcomb from March 30 to May 29, and for classified employee Jodie Wnoroski from Oct. 27 to Jan. 14. Substitute teachers hired were Megan Ciolek, Martha Laurila, Jeff Raisian, David Guglielmo, Rhiannon McCorkle, Jenna Waid, Adam Holdson, Olympia Maenpaa and Mollie Weisman. Catherine Glosser was hired as a home tutor at $20 per hour, as-needed, for not more than 72 hours or $1,440, for the 2011-2012 school year. The board approved a contract change from 3.75 to 4 hours for bus driver Stacey Libbey, effective Oct. 31, and in the next motion, accepted her resignation as a full-time employee effective Nov. 16. She was rehired as a substitute driver, later in the meeting. The board approved contract changes for driver Jeff Lowery to bus mechanic, 8 hours a day, for 12 months, at $13.57 per hour, effective Nov. 7. Changes to the contract of bus driver Jane Simpson, from 6.75 to 7 hours, were approved, effective Nov. 21. The board also hired substitute classified personnel for the 2011-2012 school year: Pamela Thomas, cafeteria, $7.40 per hour; custodial, $8 per hour, Gary Duris, Felicia Knox, Julie Gritzer, Mary Steighner, Nancy Henson, George Zahler; Parapfofessional $7,40/hour Mark Reffner; transportation $11.50 per hour, William McFadden; The school district also awarded to low-bidder Polchosky Excavating a snowplow contract for the 20112012 school year. Polchosky was hired for $10,000 to plow Conneaut High School, Lakeshore Primary School and the bus garage; and for $4,750 to plow Gateway El-

ementary and Conneaut Middle Schools. The snow plow contract goes into effect in January and ends at Spring Break (April 29). As he did last year, Houston is banking on low snow totals in December. School district maintenance crews will handle this month’s plowing and the Southeast Building lot throughout the winter. “You’re gambling again,” joked CBOE member Sonny Heinonen. “We have trucks,” Houston said, to which Heinonen replied that the district had “won the last two times,” meaning the two previous Decembers. The board tabled a motion to approve revisions to the Conneaut Music Boosters ByLaws, requesting more time to peruse them. In school board committee reports, board member Nick Iarocci reported that the school board is waiting for the City of Conneaut to approve the transfer of a small portion of Liberty Street Park. Meetings between the school board and City Council will resume in January. The board plans to sell a vacant parcel of land at the bus garage on Rowe Street. In his school board president’s report, Iarocci said the land will be sold at auction. If it does not sell, it will be listed for private sale with Rick Furmage of Prudential. There was no report on the Athletic Council or City Council, but a committee will work with the new school board next month to put a new drugs and alcohol athletic policy in place for the 2012-2013 school year. In his Superintendent’s Report, Houston said the repairs to the roof above the seventh and eighth grade wings of Conneaut Middle School were completed in three days, courtesy of the Ohio Schools Facilities Commission. Houston said one more repair is

needed at CMS and one at Gateway. He was happy to report that the problem of noisy hand dryers in Conneaut Middle School restrooms have been repaired. Discovering the noise was due to vibrations against the wall, school district maintenance supervisor Kevin Miller suggested putting rubber washers behind the hand dryers. That solved the problem. He reported that Denny Bowman, an architect with Smolen, donated time to study infrastructure solutions for the east side of the stadium, and hoped to start the work before Christmas. Repairs are being funded through a grant from the Conneaut Foundation. In administrators’ reports, Director of Curriculum and Testing Kris Mucci reported that half the third grade students at Gateway Elementary School passed the fall Ohio Achievement Assessment. She thanked second grade teachers at Lakeshore Primary for having prepared the students well. Fall tests are administered to third graders only, she said. Mucci said assessments will be moving to “on-line” only in the near future. Lakeshore Primary School Principal Jim Kennedy reported that the Parent/ Teacher Council-sponsored “Rock Out Hunger” event

brought in three boxes of canned food. Average daily attendance has been 96 percent. Conneaut Middle School Principal Linda Bernay described numerous activities at the school, including students’ writing to servicemen as part of a Red Cross project. Gateway Elementary School Principal Liesl Blackwell announced that the Family Book Club Night brought in 45 to 50 people on Nov. 14 and that Ohio Achievement Assessments scores from October showed 51 percent passing. The fourth grade will sponsor a Food Drive for the Conneaut Food Pantry as its holiday project. A future Game Night is in the works.. Conneaut High School Principal Dawn Zappitelli announced that the National Honor Society is selling multicolored wrist bands as a cancer awareness project. Board member Rob Eager offered his monthly thank-you to cafeteria workers. Leaving office at the end of the month, Eager said he had given these workers his first school board meeting “thank you” upon joining the board in 2008. “I love to eat,” he said. The board voted to change its December meeting from the third Thursday of the month to Wed., Dec. 21. Work session is 6 p.m., followed by 7 p.m. meeting.

NOMINATIONS From page 1A Champions. Chamber Champions are individuals, organizations, businesses, or industries that have demonstrated excellence in contributing to the goals and objectives of the Conneaut Area Chamber of Commerce. Awards criteria are broad so as to recognize efforts in economic or civic improvements. A prod-

uct or service, an idea or innovation, a success or investment that demonstrates commitment to the Conneaut area community may be deemed a Chamber Champion. Awards are: Professional Achievement Award is presented to a business or individual demonstrating a superb record of distinguished career accomplishments and who has made outstanding contributions to a profession, industry, or community. The 2010 recipient was former State Representative Deborah Newcomb. The 2009 recipients were Chris Brecht, Chris Brecht State Farm Insurance, and Kerry Gerdes, Gerdes Pharmacy. Leadership Award is presented to a business, industry or individual with outstanding achievements in economic development, jobs creation, enterprise growth, or start-up entrepreneurship. Burning Stone Cafe owners Neal and Nikki LaRusch were the 2010 winners while Eric Nesbitt, Conneaut Port Authority and Sonny Heinonen, Conneaut School Board accepted the 2009 Award for their efforts bringing wind turbines to Conneaut. President’s Award is presented to an individual, organization, or business that has exemplified the strategic objective of the Conneaut Area Chamber of Commerce: to make Conneaut a better place in which to work, live, and play. The Conneaut Public Library was the 2010 winner and the ecumenical home improvement project L.E.A.F. (Loving Equally All Families) was the 2009 winner. Chamber Champion recipients are chosen by the Chamber Board of Directors. The Directors may choose not to present every award each year and may make special presentations from time to time. Nominations for all awards will be accepted in person at the Chamber office, 235 Main Street (10 a.m. to 3 p.m. weekdays) or via e-mail conneautchamber @suite224.net. The 2011 Citizen of the Year and the Chamber Champions will be announced at the Chamber’s Annual Annual Membership Dinner Feb. 7, 2012. Contact Wendy DuBey with questions at (440) 5932402 or via e-mail.

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GAZETTE NEWSPAPERS • 11A

Railroad Right-of-Way Incoherent Driver Injured After Hitting I-90 Bridge Ride Ends in Arrest by MARTHA SOROHAN Gazette Newspapers

by MARTHA SOROHAN Gazette Newspapers CONNEAUT - Jeffrey Dalrymple was arrested after driving his vehicle on the north side of the CSX Railroad right-of-way on Dec. 9 Officers came upon Dalrymple 1:11 a.m. Dec. 9 while on patrol near the Chestnut Street crossing. After observing white lights from a vehicle being driven on the north side of the railroad right-of-way, they turned around on Chestnut at Depot Street and headed northbound on Chestnut Street. Upon reaching the railroad crossing a second time, they observed a car traveling westbound on the north side of the tracks at a high rate of speed. A subject was running next to the car on the passenger

side. An officer proceeded to travel down Clark Street to try to get in front of the car, then observed that the vehicle was stopped on the tracks just east of Whitney Road. The officer reached the vehicle and observed a male driver with a surprised look on his face. Identified as Dalrymple, the driver did not answer when asked where the other subject went. Dalrymple was placed in the rear seat the patrol unit. A check of his vehicle found several pieces of rusty drain pipe and other metals in the front and back seats that were found to have been stolen from the City Water Works on Clark Street. Dalrymple was arrested, and booked into the jail.

Ignoring Stop Sign Causes Accident at Mill & Madison Streets by MARTHA SOROHAN Gazette Newspapers CONNEAUT - A driver’s failure to stop at a stop sign resulted in a two-vehicle accident, without injuries, 8:04 a.m. Dec. 9 at the intersection of Mill and Madison Streets. Officers arrived to find a light blue 2004 Ford parked facing north on the west side of Mill Street, north of Madison Street, with damage to the driver’s side front end and side. A black 2008 Ford SW was parked in the yard at the northwest corner of Mill and Madison Street with damage to the driver ’s side mirror and

front end. The driver of the light blue Ford, Alice Blankenship, told officers she did not think she had been injured in the accident, but did not know what had happened to have caused it. A witness approached, according to police reports, who had observed the light blue Ford SW traveling westbound on Madison Street fail to stop at the stop sign at Mill St. Blankenship’s car was struck by the black Ford traveling northbound on Mill. Blankenship was cited for failing to stop at the stop sign.

CONNEAUT - A woman driving under the influence of narcotics was injured after causing a two-vehicle crash 1:46 p.m. Dec. 11 on the westbound lane of I-90 at the Furnace Road bridge. Police and EMS units dispatched to the scene near the city’s east limits arrived to find two vehicles at rest at the bridge that spans Furnace Rd. The first, a Honda Accord, was facing northwest with heavy front-end damage. Personnel from Station One were attending to a female in the driver’s seat. Minutes later, an officer observed the same female exit the Honda and run toward the ambulance parked directly in front of her damaged car. A witness to the crash was sitting in a silver Chevy stopped several yards in front of the Honda. He had been traveling westbound and observed the

Honda drive through the median from the eastbound lanes of travel. The vehicle appeared to be traveling at a high rate of speed before it began spinning around. After the vehicle entered the westbound lanes of travel, it struck the north side of the bridge wall before bouncing off and around his vehicle. He was not injured nor was his vehicle damaged as a result of the crash. At the end of the officer’s conversation with him, he said, “Officer, I think you should know the female driver of that car told me she had done some bad [stuff].” The officer then entered the ambulance and observed the female, who by then was completely naked and thrashing about as squad members tried to render aid. The officer told EMTs that she may be under the influence of a narcotic. Personnel said they had already suspected the same, since the female aggressively stripped off all of her clothing immediately after enter-

APPOINTMENTS cil members. “Welcome, Rev. Gore, to the Port Authority. He’s a good man,” said Ward 1 Councilman Dave Campbell. “I’m happy to be able to serve our community on this board,” Gore said. “I look forward to the challenges we face and hope that I can be of service to the people of Conneaut. Our lakefront is one of the greatest assets for our community.” Gore’s appointment Monday marked his first success in three attempts to be named to the Port Authority. In October, 2009, Gore and Bill Kennedy were appointed the Port Authority by former City Manager Robert Schaumleffel, but Schaumleffel rescinded the appointments the following week.

Three months later, Gore was the first of 12 candidates to be interviewed for the same two Port Authority vacancies. City Council, which makes Port Authority appointments upon the recommendation of the City Manager, selected veteran PA member Bill Cooper and Bill Fleischman in the absence of a City Manager, since Schaumleffel resigned effective Dec. 31. Gore told the panel last January that as one who lives and works in Port Conneaut, he desired to serve on the board because of economic development and his interest in building the community. Good Shepherd Lutheran Church, which Gore pastors, sits on Lake Road across from Township Park.

From page 1A Gore said Monday night he had a real vision for the port, but did not elaborate. He added that he does not own a boat. “My goal is to be supportive and to help the community,” he said. “With my church on the lake, I have a vested interest in developing the area.” In other board appointments at Monday’s Council meeting, City Council reappointed Connie Naylor to another four-year term on the Board of Tourism, which she chairs. Her appointment runs Jan. 14, 2012, to Jan. 13, 2016. Council also appointed three new members to the Conneaut Tree Commission. Jason Dalton, Libby Newbern and Frank Lamont are part of one of the city’s

from

Another DUS Citation for Local Man by MARTHA SOROHAN Gazette Newspapers CONNEAUT - Officers stopped at the Sandusky and Depot Street intersection at 3:14 p.m. Dec. 6 spotted Brandon Haley behind the wheel of a green SUV, approaching on Depot Street from the east. Aware that Haley had

been cited recently for Driving Under Suspension, officers contacted dispatch. A check of Haley’s license confirmed that he was under several license suspensions. A traffic stop was initiated in the driveway of 441 Mill St., where Haley was cited. His vehicle was towed.

ing the squad. She was extremely incoherent and and had mumbled something about using heroin, police reports said. Numerous prescription medications were found in her vehicle. Once the paperwork was completed for the vehicle’s removal, the officer again spoke with EMS personnel, who advised the female had uttered numerous sexual remarks while inside the ambulance. One EMT said she appeared to think that he was her boyfriend, and could not “wait” for him and began touching herself inappropriately while secured to the gurney. Identified as Brooke A. Wilson, she was taken to the hospital for treatment. At 2:30 p.m., officers located another vehicle involved in the crash. The occupants stated that Wilson’s vehicle had struck theirs, then fled before striking the bridge. Charges were referred for OVI on Wilson.

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largest boards charged with helping the city maintain its 25-year distinction as a Tree City USA. City Council also unanimously appointed City Council Clerk Pam Harper to her eighth two-year term. All but six Mondays each year, she faithfully takes attendance, reads ordinances, records votes, and takes meeting minutes known as the Journal of Council. Harper had submitted to Council last week a letter of interest in serving another two-year term. After Council members renamed Harper to the post, she thanked them. “She keeps me out of trouble,” said City Council President Tom Udell, seated at her left in Council chambers.

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12A • GAZETTE NEWSPAPERS

THURSDAY, DECEMBER 15, 2011

A Madcap Merry Christmas

Kids and parents alike flocked to the punch-and-cookies table after the 50-minute presentation, “Jack and the Gentle Giant,” presented by the Madcap Puppets of Cincinnati Tuesday afternoon at the American Legion, hosted by the Conneaut Public Library.

PHOTOS BY MARTHA SOROHAN

Christmas

Local children volunteered to help Madcap Puppets’ Rachel Christianson during the presentation. One volunteer had the privilege of returning his heart to the huge giant. “Give me a heart, and I’ll never be cruel again,” the Giant said. Once he had it, he said, “How good it feels to have a heart... warm and tingly.” The moral of the story? The heartless giant became peaceful and loving once again.

is coming! New Leaf will offer a variety of opportunities to worship...

Friday, Dec. 23 at 6:00 p.m. Can’t make it on Christmas Eve? Come and join us on the Eve of Christmas Eve for a Candlelit Worship Experience.

Sat., Dec. 24 • Christmas Eve 6:00 p.m. and 11:00 p.m. Come for our Christmas Eve Candlelit Worship Experience.

We invite you to join us for our

Christmas Day

Live Nativity Scene

Brunch

Dec. 18 • 5:00-7:00 p.m.

8:45-11:00 a.m.

Drive by or walk through. Live animals and costumed actors! Hot chocolate and Christmas treats will be served in our Worship Center.

Worship 9:00 & 11:00 a.m. Bevin White enjoyed attending the program with his grandmother, Connie Smith.

New Leaf United Methodist Church (Across from McDonald’s) 283 Buffalo Street | Conneaut | 440.593.2525 newleafumc@suite224.net | http://newleafumc.com We love the Lord, love one another and make disciples of Jesus Christ!

Lights of Love Still Available The Conneaut Area Chamber of Commerce will sell Lights of Love through Dec. 16 at Andover Bank, Conneaut Savings Bank, Key Bank, Port Conneaut Federal Credit Union, and the Chamber office, 235 Main St. Each “light” is $5 and may be purchased in honor or memory of a loved one. Names of honorees and donors will be published in The Courier, starting Dec. 15, and continue through the holiday season.