Gazette 09-21-11

Grape press donated to Harpersfield Ruritans —

Best of the County — See page 6A

See page 5A

KSUA opens new learning facilities — See page 11A

THEGAZETTE

Vol. No. 135, No. 38

WEDNESDAY, SEPTEMBER 21, 2011

JA HS cr owns crowns Homecoming rro oyalty

Periodical’s Postage Paid

75¢

Nazarene Church buys old Jefferson BOE office

BY STEFANIE WESSELL Gazette Newspapers JEFFERSON - Although only one bidder showed up, it was enough to sell the old Jefferson Area Local Schools Board of Education office on Saturday, Sept. 17.

“We sold the board office for the minimum bid,” Superintendent Doug Hladek said.

Hladek served as the auctioneer during the auction of the administration building, which is located at 45 E. Satin St. in Jefferson.

Buying the property was the Jefferson Church of the Nazarene for $90,000. The church is located next to the property, which was a factor in church officials pursuing the purchase.

With the new schools and buildings in the district, the property is

no longer needed for school purposes. The property consists of an approximately 3,062-square-foot building situated on approximately one acre of land.

Church officials also presented a $10,000 cashier’s check, which was required by the terms of the sale, Hladek said.

On the school district’s side, Hladek said the Board of Education will vote on a resolution formally agreeing to the sale during its next meeting.

“I anticipate the board will accept the offer,” Hladek said.

Jefferson Church of the Nazarene Pastor Rodney Kincaid said the church had a vested interest in the property just by virtue of it being located next door to it.

As it happened, two pieces of property came up for sale next to

the church around the same time, Kincaid said.

The church bought the one owned by the school district. The church and the board had a partnership regarding the parking lot, and if someone else had bought the property, that could have negatively affected the church, he said.

“Right now, we are just celebrating the fact that we got it,” Kincaid said.

He said there are no immediate plans for the property, and he expects nothing to change yet. He said the church members will discuss it more once the board vacates the building, although he said they are not in a rush.

When deciding whether to purchase the property, Kincaid said a vote came before the congregation,

See BOE page 13A

Ashtabula police to receive new ballistic vests

BY SADIE PORTMAN Gazette Newspapers ASHTABULA - The purchase of ballistic vests for the City of PHOTO BY STEFANIE WESSELL Ashtabula Police Department was Jefferson Area High School seniors Kyle Dunford and Jackie Piscsalko voted on at Monday night’s city were crowned King and Queen prior to the Homecoming game council meeting.

City Manager Anthony against the Grand Valley Mustangs on Friday, Sept. 16. For more Cantagallo introduced the ordiphotos, see inside this week’s Gazette. nance, which read, “An ordinance authorizing the city manager to enter into a contract with Fire Force Incorporated to purchase ballistic vests for the protection of police officers.”

The new ballistic vests would protect an officer in the event of being hit with a bullet.

Ashtabula’s police wear ballistic vests today, and providing them

Auschwitz survivor talks to Jefferson students

with new vests will keep the city’s law enforcement officials safe and up to date with the new technology of bullet-resistant vests.

Cantagallo was very much for the idea of the new vests, especially after the vest saved an officer just this past spring.

“This past spring, one of our police officers arrived on a call and as he was exiting his cruiser, a man about 20 yards away stood up and fired a pistol at him and the pistol bullet swiped him in the vest, [which] saved his life,” Cantagallo said.

Cantagallo said he did not plan to be on the scene that night, but as fate would have it, his night ended at the crime scene, where he saw first hand the power of a bul-

let-resistant vest.

“I was there by pure accident about 20 minutes to 30 minutes after this happened, and the officer was taken to the hospital, but this vest was still there and I would have to tell you that it was amazing to see this very, very light piece of material with this dent in the middle that stopped a .38 caliber pistol round,” Cantagallo said.

Numerous police officers’ lives from across the United States have been saved when wearing similar vests while on duty, and Cantagallo was sure the officer who was shot on scene in the spring would not be here without the strength of the ballistic vest he was wearing that night.

See VESTS page 13A

Here she is: Geneva’s Miss Grapette

PHOTOS BY SADIE PORTMAN

Philip Gans shows the students at Jefferson Area High School photos of how skinny those in Auschwitz were and yet they worked day in and day out.

BY SADIE PORTMAN Gazette Newspapers JEFFERSON - Phillip Gans came to Jefferson Area High School last Thursday afternoon to give not only a lesson on the Holocaust but a message of erasing the hate.

Gans is a Holocaust survivor from Holland who lived through two years at the Auschwitz Three Concentration Camp, starting when he was just 15 and being liberated when he was 17.

Gans’ family went into hiding in August of 1942 and they remained in hiding until the Nazis found him and his family in July of 1943.

Gans said he woke up and saw Nazis going into the house and awoke his sister, who told him to go back to sleep. When he woke up again, it was to Nazi officials in their room.

His family was interrogated, jailed and then placed in a

Westbrook Holland detention camp where they stayed for less than a month.

“I’ve really been lucky all my life. I’ve missed death so many times,” Gans said.

Gans said his mother, sister and grandmother made it to Auschwitz but were gassed almost immediately. His brother and father were both spared.

“There’s families of three and four people who came to Auschwitz and went straight to the gas chambers, husband, wife and children,” Gans said.

Gans’ brother eventually got blood poisoning while working in Auschwitz and was sent to the gas chambers after a short stay in the camp hospital.

“They had no respect for humanity,” Gans said.

Twenty-one of Gans’ family members were killed in the Holocaust, including his mother, father and brother and sister. The only other known survivor of his family was an aunt who fled to Aruba during the Nazi occupation of France.

Gans said most people kept to themselves while in Auschwitz.

See SURVIVOR page 13A

PHOTOS BY SADIE PORTMAN

Brandi Vokurka, center, was crowned Miss Grapette, with Katie Peck, right, as first attendant and Devin Travis as second attendant. INSET: Karlie Bradbury flashes a smile as she is named 2011 Young Miss Grapette.

Grapette 2010 Alyx Lynham said.

BY SADIE PORTMAN Lynham said her mother and father Gazette Newspapers were an amazing force of support during her year as Miss Grapette and GENEVA - The Geneva High she was gracious for all they had School Auditorium was filled done. with anticipation Saturday Lynham said the experience night as the Grapette hopefuls was one she will not soon forget stood on stage waiting for the and she has grown tremendously new Miss Grapette to be since first being crowned one year crowned. ago.

Excitement overcame the “I believe I have learned to be small auditorium as Brandi a better person through this expeVokurka was finally announced rience,” Lynham said. as this year’s Miss Grapette, with Now Lynham is ready for a new the crowd reacting in cheers and adventure as she gives her title to applause.

Vokurka, who was shocked and surThe three-and-a-half hour event was prised by her win. First attendant for Miss filled with talent and beauty as the girls Grapette went to Katie Peck, with Devin competed for top titles of Miss Grapette, Young Travis coming in as second attendant.

Miss Grapette, Junior Miss Grapette and Little Other Grapette winners including Karlie Miss Grapette.

Bradbury as the 2011 Young Miss Grapette. JunVokurka was crowned Miss Grapette as tradi- ior Miss Grapette is now Paige Mottley. Kaitlyn tion dictates by the 2010 court, who shared sto- Keenan won the title of first attendant Junior ries of their experience as a Grapette going to a Miss Grapette and Amelia MacWilliams was variety of different festivals across the state. Com- crowned the second attendant. bined, the Grapettes attended a total of 200 paLittle Miss Grapette went to Lexi Donato, with rades and festivals.

See GRAPETTE page 7A “I had no idea what was in store for me,” Miss

2A • GAZETTE NEWSPAPERS

WEDNESDAY, September 21, 2011

New Beatitude ODOT leaves Ashtabula drivers House to be dedicated confused by intersection

BY SADIE PORTMAN Gazette Newspapers ASHTABULA - The new bridge that was put in Ashtabula has created confusion at Lake Avenue and West 19th Street.

“There has been a great deal of public complaint coming into our phone systems regarding being on Carpenter Road and the ability to make a right onto West and a left onto Lake,” Ashtabula City Manager Anthony Cantagallo said.

The bridge was completed after the Ohio Department of Transportation (ODOT) conducted a traffic study to examine the flow of traffic in the area.

“That whole bridge reconfiguration was done with a traffic study, and the new bridge is not exactly where the old bridge was. It moved several degrees to the north,” Cantagallo said.

“The moving of the bridge caused a reconfiguration of the lanes.”

Two aluminum poles holding new lights will be placed at the intersec-

tion by ODOT. “[The lights] are supposed to be here and be installed by the 23rd of September. That’s the latest information,” Cantagallo said.

Cantagallo wants to ensure the safety of those driving in the area while also creating sufficient traffic flow.

“The objection from many of the citizens, including some people on council, is that it is confusing. You don’t know whether you can go straight or make a right,” Cantagallo said.

Cantagallo said the city has addressed their concerns with ODOT. “We went to ODOT and said you’ve created this problem for us, and their response to us was, ‘we may have, but when the new lights come on, then you’ll be able to figure out what’s going on,’” Cantagallo said.

Cantagallo was hoping the city could place a temporary sign in the area so drivers understand they can make a right turn and continue go-

ing north once they’ve stopped.

“Their response was ‘absolutely not,’” Cantagallo said. “Their point is that if you go in and make any changes to that intersection, from there on out it’s your project and we go back to Columbus.”

Cantagallo said the city cannot afford to lose the ODOT funding, so the streets must remain as ODOT left them.

“We had the conversation with them virtually two to three times a week. They are moving forward in a way which they think is great speed,” Cantagallo said. “I really can’t argue with and I don’t know what’s holding them up.”

Cantagallo wants those who drive in Ashtabula to know the city has not ignored their complaints and are doing the best they can with what ODOT has left them.

“I know there’s a problem. We are not in a position to go and fix it. We have to wait for ODOT to do it,” Cantagallo said.

Dinner

with a Doc

A Conversation with Pediatrician Jude Cauwenbergh, DO Thursday, Oct. 13, 6:30 p.m.

Casa Capelli Restaurant 4641 Main Ave., Ashtabula

You’re invited to join pediatrician Jude Cauwenbergh, DO, for an evening of dinner and conversation relating to back-to-school health issues, fall sports safety and seasonal childhood illnesses.

The $15 cost per person includes dinner, soft drinks and dessert. Reservations and advance payment are required. Reserve your spot at the table by calling (440) 997-6555 by Oct. 10.

Gratuity not included.

Find us on

www.facebook.com/ashtabulahealth

in Ashtabula

BY SADIE PORTMAN Gazette Newspapers ASHTABULA - The Beatitude House will be holding a dedication ceremony for its new facility located at the former St. Joseph’s Elementary School on 3404 Lake Ave. in the City of Ashtabula. The dedication will be Wednesday, Sept. 28, beginning at 10 a.m.

“The vacant school will be given new life as it is renovated to create homes for 10 homeless families,” Jennifer Roberts said. “Work is expected to begin in October 2011, with families scheduled to move in during the spring of 2012.”

The Beatitude House will provide housing for homeless mothers and their children.

“In addition to housing, Beatitude House will provide families with support services including counseling, parenting classes, educational opportunities, and child advocacy, providing families with the tools to enable them to move from homelessness and poverty to stable housing and financial stability,” Roberts said.

The Beatitude House has been in the Youngstown area for a number of years but is now taking the step to expand into Ashtabula.

“Beatitude House, sponsored by the Ursuline Sisters of Youngstown, is committed to all disadvantaged women and children, “ Roberts said.

“By creating homes, providing educational opportunities and fostering healthy families, we provide them with the opportunity to transform their lives.”

Roberts said there was a number of businesses in the area whose funding was instrumental in beginning the project.

“Funding for the project has been secured from the Federal Home Loan Bank, through a partnership with Farmers National Bank, the Ashtabula Foundation, the Conneaut Foundation, the Ursuline Sisters of Youngstown, Northwest Savings Bank, the Frank & Pearl Gelbman Foundation, Farmers National Bank, Davis International, and many individual donors, including Joe and Mary Kay Del Priore,”

Roberts said.

The Del Priores have been involved with bringing the house to Ashtabula for about four years now.

“The Del Priores are Ashtabula residents who were instrumental in bringing Beatitude House to Ashtabula,” Roberts said.

Joe Del Priore said his wife Mary Kay has given to the Beatitude House for many years after she became close with some of the sisters. The idea to expand the program into Ashtabula came with open arms from the Del Priores and they knew they had to assist.

The Ashtabula branch of the Beatitude House will be called the House of Blessing for Ashtabula County and will be located in the Saint Joseph’s Elementary School Building behind Saint Joseph’s Church.

Del Priore said the house is not a shelter. It goes beyond giving them a bed and food and teaches them how to survive.

“It’s not a shelter where after 30 days, they have to leave and find themselves in the same situation 30 days prior to that,” Del Priore said.

Del Priore said the hope the Beatitudes House offers is not just for the mothers but for the children as well.

“It shows these children that there is something more in life than the uncertainty that they faced before they started in the Beatitude House,” Del Priore said.

The Beatitude House is still accepting donations from anyone who would like to assist in the project.

“There is still an opportunity for individuals to personally help transform the lives of homeless families in the community, through participation in the Ashtabula Make a House a Home Campaign,” Roberts said. “There are a variety of levels in which a donor can contribute to the campaign, ranging from $300 to provide security and other living expenses to $1,800 to assist in the completion of an apartment.”

For those who can’t give monetary donations, there are still other ways to contribute to the house.

“People are calling us and donating furniture for the place, appliances and just those people who maybe can’t afford to do anything like that, their moral support and vocal support has been outstanding,” Del Priore said.

Many donations have come from throughout the county, including from the Ashtabula Foundation, the Conneaut Foundation, a couple foundations from Mahoning County and even a grant from Federal Home Loan Bank that helped them raise close to $1 million for the project.

“It’s amazing for Ashtabula,” Del Priore said.

“We’re just besides ourselves to know that something like this will be reality in Ashtabula.”

For more information on the campaign, you can contact the development department at 330-744-3147 or to learn more about Beatitude H o u s e www.beatitudehouse.com.

Sadie Portman, reporter for the Gazette, may be reached at sportman@ gazettenews.com.

Ashtabula Senior Center invites Sheriff Johnson to speak ASHTABULA Ashtabula County Sheriff William Johnson will be at the Ashtabula Senior Center on Wednesday, Sept. 21, at 1 p.m.

Sheriff Johnson will discuss events that are taking place in Ashtabula County, along with the rules of duty of the sheriff department.

There will also be an open forum with questions and answer period to follow.

Along with these topics Sheriff Johnson will also discuss identity thief, which seems to hit home with a lot of seniors.

WEDNESDAY, September 21, 2011

Community Center plans reverse raffle to raise funds

BY SADIE PORTMAN Gazette Newspapers

COMMUNITY

GAZETTE NEWSPAPERS • 3A

Geek pride

idea of the reverse raffle after attending a few over the years.

“I help with the Geneva-onJEFFERSON - The the-Lake Police Auxiliary ReJefferson Community Center verse Raffle every year and we is holding its first raffle on Sat- come out pretty good each year, urday, Nov. 12, from 4:30 p.m. so I thought why not bring it to Jefferson?” Douglas said. until midnight.

Douglas said the night will “This is our first reverse raffle,” Randy Douglas, orga- being forth entertainment and community, along with a nizer of the event, said.

The reverse raffle night will chance to take home a prize or include dinner, beer and wine, two.

“We want everyone to come and people attending are permitted to bring in their own out and have some fun,” Douglas said. Tickets are on sale drinks as well.

“The doors are opened to and are selling at $25 a piece.

“We’d like to get pre-sale anyone who wants to attend,” Douglas said. “The money tickets sold, and if we have any raised will go to both the left over, they will also be availJefferson Senior Center and able at the door the night of Community Center so we can the raffle,” Douglas said.

Douglas said all are welprovide future classes and come to come out and support make some repairs.”

There is no set goal on how the cause.

“It’s a good fundraiser. It much money they would like to raise. Douglas said however not only helps the community much the final total is, it will center out, but it provides a be put to good use. Places like nice night out,” Douglas said.

Douglas would like busiSubway, Valarie’s Hair Design and Golden Dawn have or are nesses to know they are still set to make donations for the accepting any and all donacommunity center’s reverse tions.

“We’d just like to get the raffle event.

“Everything is gathered word out so people know about from a donation,” Douglas the raffle and they can still buy tickets or make a donation,” said.

PHOTOS BY STEFANIE WESSELL Raffle items are still being Douglas said.

Live long and prosper, said the students and staff dressed up for Nerd Day at JAHS. Pictured, from left, are Destinie Douglas welcomes all who Hill, Rebecca Banks, teacher Nancy Champlin and Zack Miller. collected for the Chinese aucare interested to contact him tion.

“We don’t have the informa- for tickets or to make a contriThe students and staff at Jefferson Area tion on exactly what items we bution. “It’s going to be a good High School celebrated Spirit Week last have collected yet,” Douglas time,” Douglas said.

For more information, consaid. “We are still in the proweek in honor of Homecoming. Each day tact the Jefferson Community cess of collecting items.”

Douglas came up with the Center at (440) 576-9052. had a different theme, including Nerd

Aqua Ohio starts West Erie Street waterline replacement project in Jefferson

BY STEFANIE WESSELL Gazette Newspapers JEFFERSON - Aqua Ohio, Inc. officials announced this week that construction has started on the West Erie Street waterline replacement project in the Village of Jefferson.

The upgrade on West Erie Street includes the replacement of approximately 2,000 feet of six-inch diameter, cast iron water main with new eight-inch diameter, ductile iron pipe.

The pipe will be installed along West Erie Street from Chestnut Street to Franley Drive, according to Aqua officials. Three fire hydrants equipped with larger pumper outlets will also be installed as part of this project to allow for the delivery of more water for fire-fighting purposes. The new main, which is expected to be in service by the end of October, will enhance fire protection and provide more reliable wa-

Day on Wednesday, Sept. 14.

ter service to the area.

“The main replacement project totaling $211,000 is part of Aqua’s ongoing capital improvement program that continues to complement previous years’ efforts to proactively upgrade aging infrastructure,” Aqua Ohio Area Manager Tony Mancari said. “This is the ninth major main replacement for the Village of Jefferson since 2001, in addition to the $1.3 million, 500,000 gallon storage tank constructed in 2010. Our plan, in which we work closely with village officials and fire department (officials) to develop, allows us to better ensure uninterrupted service to our customers and addresses deterioration to avoid last minute, more costly repairs.”

Aqua Ohio serves nearly 280,000 people in 54 commuSeniors Nick Kobernik, Derek Deyermand and Jennifer nities, including more than Even the teachers got in on the fun, including Dr. John Hall, sophomore Tayler Johnston and teacher Amy 85,000 people in Lake County Patterson, pictured with students Rebecca Banks and Gasser pose for a photo in their nerdiest outfits. and over 3,000 people in the Zack Miller.

Village of Jefferson in Ashtabula County.

THE GAZETTE USPS 273-820 Office located at: 46 W. Jefferson St., Jefferson, Ohio 44047 Address editorial correspondence to: P.O. Box 166, Jefferson, Ohio 44047 (440) 576-9125 Fax: (440) 576-2778 Email: gazette@gazettenews.com Publisher ................................... John Lampson President ............................ Jeffrey J. Lampson General Manager .................... William Creed bcreed@gazettenews.com Senior Editor ......................... Stefanie Wessell swessell@gazettenews.com Reporter .................................... Sadie Portman Advertising ................................... Rick Briggs

Apples galore

BY STEFANIE WESSELL Gazette Newspapers

the game of Apple Bingo, with the prize being a shiny, ripe apple.

Like most Jefferson Historical Society events, the festival was held on the grounds of the Trinity Church, which is now the headquarters of the Historical Society at 42 East Jefferson St. In the former sanctuary of Trinity Church, there was a grandma’s attic sale. All of the gems were reasonably priced to move them on out to a new home.

JEFFERSON - Apples were the featured item during the Apple Fest on Saturday, Sept. 17.

The Jefferson Historical Society organized the event, which celebrated the fruit loved by Johnny Appleseed, also known as John Chapman.

Apples were featured in games and food, including in the menu of fruited chicken salad, meatloaf with applesauce, apple fritters, applekraut hot dogs, apple Stefanie Wessell, senior muffins and more. editor for Gazette NewspaGuests young and old pers, may be reached at Shirley Howley calls out Bingo numbers during the Apple alike were entertained with swessell@gazettenews.com.

Fest.

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Marg Masirovits checks her card during the game of Apple Bingo.

LETTERS POLICY We encourage letters to the editor on topics of interest to our general readership. Although letters should be of sufficient length to express your idea, please limit them to 400 words or less. Letters should include your name, address, telephone number and hand written signature. We reserve the right to edit all letters for style, clarity and libelous content.

Questions? Call Us at (440) 576-9125 Advertising ........... Rick Briggs x106 Classifieds ............ Traci Dean x101 Subscriptions ....... x101 Circulation ............ x102 News ...................... Stefanie Wessell x107 Sports .................... Byron Wessell x115

PHOTOS BY STEFANIE WESSELL

Virgie Butcher enjoys a cup of soup as she helps with the Members of the Jefferson Historical Society Jackie Huber rummage sale at the Jefferson Historical Society. and Phyllis Wayman cook up food during the Apple Fest.

4A • GAZETTE NEWSPAPERS

WEDNESDAY, September 21, 2011

JAHS celebrates Homecoming It was Homecoming Week at Jefferson Area Senior High School, and students chose their Royal Court. Before Jefferson Area High School seniors Kyle Dunford and Jackie Piscsalko were crowned King and Queen prior to the Homecoming game against the Grand Valley Mustangs on Friday, Sept. 16, the rest of the court walked the field with their chosen family members. A parade also was held Friday evening

Queen candidate Brittany Gattarello waves to the crowd.

PHOTOS BY STEFANIE WESSELL

Homecoming attendants freshman Deanna Comp walks onto the field at Falcon Pride Stadium with her parents Jerry and Linda Comp.

Homecoming King candidate Nick Stranman rides in the Homecoming parade.

Homecoming Queen candidate Rachel Francis walks onto the field with her parents Scott and Melinda Frances.

The Class of 2012 cheer during the parade.

Homecoming King candidate Jonathan Hubler is pictured with parents Bonnie and Bill.

2010 Homecoming Queen Gidget Marrison returned for the annual Homecoming parade.

Queen candidate Amanda Zalar gets a ride in the Homecoming parade.

Homecoming King candidate Nick Stranman is pictured with parents Doug and Sharon.

Youth in a Jefferson-area football league rode in a float in the Homecoming parade.

WEDNESDAY, September 21, 2011

GAZETTE NEWSPAPERS • 5A

Grape press donated to Harpersfield Ruritans

PHOTOS BY SADIE PORTMAN Gene Sigal and Ron Belding help bolt the plaques to the grape press after Sigal donated the press to the Harpersfield Ruritans when he found it in the back of the barn of the Ron Belding and Gene Sigal hold the plaques that are now bolted to the grape press once owned by one of the Grape JAMboree founders, Joe Gruber. old Gruber farm.

BY SADIE PORTMAN Gazette Newspapers HARPERSFIELD TOWNSHIP - A grape press found in the back of Joe and Leora Gruber’s old farm has been donated to the Harpersfield Ruritans by South River Winery owner, Gene Sigal. “[Segal] was going to sell it, but then he turned around and donated to the Ruritans instead,” Jim Pristov, Ruritan and Harpersfield trustee, said.

Sigal bought the old Gruber farmer and began going through items that were still left in the barn when he found the grape press.

“When I bought the farm, all of the things left in the barn came with the farm, and so the press was something I knew had value or interest, but it’s not something that’s modernly used now on grape farms because of its age and style,” Sigal said.

Sigal is not sure of the exact age of the press, but he said it is at least 50 years old - if not older.

“It is probably at least 50 years old. It might even be 100 years old,” Sigal said. “It is a very simple kind of press and was very widely used by grape farmers for a long time.”

Sigel initially thought to put the press up for sale, but after reviewing the history of the press, he felt the Ruritans could continue a tradition that began at the first Grape JAMboree.

“It was on Joe Gruber’s farm and Joe was one of the founders of the Grape JAMboree,” Sigal said.

Although they cannot be for certain, the Ruritans have suspicions that the press was used for years at the Grape JAMboree to make grape juice.

“Rather than just get rid of it, I thought it was a good way for them to carry on that tradition,”

“Rather than just get rid of it, I thought it was a good way for them to carry on that tradition. Probably this press has been used at the Grape JAMboree at different times for making the juice because the Ruritans have been supplying fresh juice from the beginning.”

- South River Winery owner Gene Sigal

Sigal said. “Probably this press has been used at the Grape JAMboree at different times for making the juice because the Ruritans have been supplying fresh juice from the beginning.”

When the press was first found, a lot of tender loving care was needed.

“The bolts still have to be tightened up, but it’s really been cleaned up since we first got it,” Pristov said.

The press not only had untightened bolts but was covered in dust.

“It was forgotten for awhile,” Pristov said.

The Ruritans have cleaned up the press and commissioned Belding Monuments to make a plaque to commemorate Joe and Leora Gruber.

“It looks nice. [The Ruritans] did a lot of work on it,” Sigal said.

The Ruritans hope the grape press can be used for more than just the Grape JAMboree. They would like to display it at other community functions, such as events at the Harpersfield Covered Bridge.

“Eventually we’ll get a trailer to move it around so we can then display it because we’d like to honor Joe and Leora [Gruber], but I think Gene Sigal would be proud, too,” Pristov said.

Ron Belding and Gene Sigal stand underneath the grape press after the plaques commemorating Joe and Leora Gruber were bolted into place.

Sadie Portman, reporter for the Gazette, may be reached at sportman @gazettenews.com.

Walnut Beach may receive volunteers to refurbish facilities

BY SADIE PORTMAN Gazette Newspapers ASHTABULA - Walnut Beach’s restrooms and facilities are in need of repair, and some local citizens have suggested volunteering their time and resources to fix the issues.

“There’s a group of citizens that are very interested in fixing and cleaning up the the restrooms at Walnut Beach on a voluntary basis,” Ward 3 Councilor Ann Stranman said.

The volunteers plan to attend the parks and recreation committee meeting and discuss their proposal with the city.

Stranman was aware the union would have to be notified and liability issues would also have to be addressed.

“Maybe we could come up with some kind of waiver as far as liability would go and just kind of run it by the union,” Stranman said.

Council Vice President Betty Kist knew of the volunteers and said the union was aware of their notion.

“This did come up with the union, a volunteer board,” Kist said.

The volunteers are prepared to gather donations of items such as paint and supplies that are needed to clean and refurbish the restrooms.

“I have absolutely no problem at all with volunteers,” Councilman Jim Trisket said. “I welcome it.”

Everyone on council agreed this could be just what the park needs.

“If we could do this, it would be great. And I’m sure they would have a plan to present to us exactly what to bring to this,” Kist said.

Kist said Walnut Beach is a popular attraction and it is in the city’s interest to get the facilities up to par.

“We would love to get those restrooms updated, and with the traffic we get down there, I think everyone would really appreciate it,” Kist said.

Councilor August Pugliese suggested with the facilities being closed for the end of summer, it might be a good time to start and avoid the winter weather.

“I think now that the bathhouse is closed, now would be good time,” Pugliese said. “Once the winter hits, those bathhouses get cold and no one will want to work in that weather.”

Pugliese had a similar idea of getting donations and has already asked local businesses.

“I myself have asked some contractors if they have any sinks or things that we could possibly use, and I haven’t heard back, but they said they would look around,” Pugliese said.

City Manager Anthony Cantagallo also was aware of Walnut Beach’s problems and received an estimate for the city to fix the facilities.

“About 14 months ago we had contractors go through the restrooms and concession stand and at that time, this contractor came back with a budget,” Cantagallo said.

The contractors came back with an estimate of $52,000 for the cost of painting and totally refurbishing those restrooms.

Kist suggested if the volunteering does not work out, the city invest back into the beach.

“If it doesn’t work out with the volunteers, I think we need to put this in the budget for next year. This is tourism,” Kist said.

Kist was concerned with the loss of tourism if the facilities are not welcoming.

“To do this would be well worth the $52,000,” Kist said.

Kist said no matter what, the facilities need to be fixed for the benefit of the city and everyone who visits the beach.

“We’ve been looking at this for at least eight years since I’ve been on council, and I think it would be beneficial to the people and the city,” Kist said.

From consultation to rehabilitation.

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6A • GAZETTE NEWSPAPERS

WEDNESDAY, September 21, 2011

Growth Partnership celebrates Best of the County

BY STEFANIE WESSELL Gazette Newspapers HARPERSFIELD TOWNSHIP - Growth Partnership for Ashtabula County helped celebrate the “Best of the County” with its annual awards dinner on Tuesday, Sept. 20, at the SPIRE Institute in Harpersfield Township.

A handful of awards were given out, each to an individual or business that has made a mark on the county.

“It was a privilege for me to come to the Growth Partnership and Ashtabula County a little over nine months ago. And it is again a privilege for me to be standing here tonight to celebrate with all of you the exciting things that are going on in Ashtabula County,” Growth Partnership Executive Director Brian Anderson said. “The theme we selected for today’s program is ‘moving forward,’ and it grew out of my initial meetings with many of you. It was a theme I incorporated into my presentation at the Profiles Breakfast back in February at Kent State. After seeing all of the assets and strengths of the county, my message that morning was that Ashtabula County needs to treasure its future as much as we treasure our past.”

Anderson said that theme rings even more true today, as there is much to be proud of and cherish in Ashtabula County in the past.

“However, we need to remain focused on a future that can be just as bright, if not brighter, than that past,” Anderson said.

Award winners included Arnie Esterer, Lifetime Achievement Award; Joe Del Priore, the Robert S. Morrison Director’s Award; Shelly Mullen and the Lift Bridge Community Association, the Bey Blanchard’s President’s Award; Mick Prochko and Covered Bridge Gardens, the George H. Kaull Award for Entrepreneurship; and Scott Strayer of Cristal Global Company/Millennium Inorganic Chemicals, Joe Miscnec and Ric Selip of Grand River Rubber and Plastics, Tim Green and the Sheldon Calvary Camp, Dave Murtha and Continental Plastics of Ohio and Julie Rose with Community Care Ambulance for Best of the County awards.

Ashtabula County Commissioner Joe Moroski presented the Lifetime Achievement Award to Esterer, owner of Markko Vineyard.

“After 17 years as an industrial engineer, Arnie made the decision to leave his desk job and start a winery. He had started growing grapes at the family home in the Ashtabula Harbor and thought he could make a new career of it. That was in 1968. Today, Markko rieslings are rated among the best in the country.

Arnie has been inducted into the Ohio Wine Producers Association Hall of Fame and the American Wine Society gave him the Award of Merit, its highest and most prestigious award.”

You might say he’s a generous contributor to the

Growth Partnership Ashtabula County President Dr. Susan Stocker welcomed guests to the 2011 annual Best of the County dinner Tuesday evening at the Spire Institute in Geneva. community and with respect to his wine, a gracious pourer, Moroski said.

During his acceptance speech, Esterer said the award was not only a personal achievement, but also an indication that the community recognizes the importance of grapes and wine in the local economy.

“This Lake Erie region has the right climate and soil with the potential to become a major producer in a worldwide market, so your goal should become much more than tourism and the pleasures in a bottle. Wine has nutritional value - to feed people in the safety of their home or restaurant,” Esterer said. “Wine has been around here for 150 years. It’s in your blood now. So with the location, the business and the people, take Lake Erie wines to the world.”

Marty Kuula presented the award to Strayer, who he described as the ultimate team player.

“He will be the first to tell you that he is only trying to do right by Cristal Global’s employees, yet it is Scott who has set an example for others to follow.

Under his leadership and direction, Cristal employees are some of the most community-minded people in and outside of Ashtabula County,” Kuula said.

He is personally involved in many of the leading organizations in Ashtabula County and he serves in leadership positions in most, if not all, that he is involved in, Kuula said.

“Cristal Global and Millennium have always supported the county’s community efforts, and I have always had the company’s and employees’ support in maintaining my involvement,” Strayer said. “I would like to recognize the employees at Cristal Global – Ashtabula Complex. There is tremendous involvement by many at the Complex and I have always tried to demonstrate the leadership that they are living on a daily basis.”

Anderson presented the Director ’s Award to Del Priore.

“With Growth Partnership in transition last year,

Joe Del Priore stepped in to keep a steady hand on the many ongoing projects. Joe says he got to know Ashtabula County again during that time and he came to the conclusion that Ashtabula County really is a great place. Not just its location, but the resilient, hardworking people who live here,” Anderson said.

Del Priore said that he was at a loss when thinking about what he would say this evening.

“But, as I looked back and tried to remember where I’ve been and what I’ve done, I realized how blessed I’ve been in my life.

I’ve always known that a lot of my good fortune was because of luck and being at the right place at the right time. It also became clear to me that good fortune, or whatever you call it, has placed some wonderful people in my life that have touched it in a special way,” Del Priore said.

He highlighted those people, who included his mother, who raised him, and Mr. Claire Welch, a Democrat County chairman who helped him receive a position as a patronage boy in Washington, D.C., under then U.S. Senator Stephen Young of Ohio right out of high school.

“After Washington, my first employment here at home was working for Jack and Vince Callihan. They were the owners of the Volkswagen dealership in Ashtabula. They were true gentlemen, the most honest and decent mentors a young man could have,” Del Priore said. “In 1974, I went to work for Pinney Dock and Transport Company and started working for Mr. Maynard Walker. It was a great place to work, full of challenges, excitement and rewarding experiences.

Along the way, Maynard taught me more than just how to run the dock, but I also learned many life lessons from him.”

Now, with the help of his wife Mary Kay, the retired Del Priore has been working on bringing the Beatitude House, a transitional housing program committed to homeless women with children, to the county.

Jeff Jenks presented the award to Selip and Misinic of Grand River Rubber and Plastics.

“Dedication to the community is why Ric Selip and Joe Misinic did not want to sell Grand River Rubber and Plastics to just anyone.

They were looking for someone to take over the 35-year old company who had the same passion for keeping it a viable business in the county as they did. Ric and Joe had to look no further than the employees on the production floor. This agreement saved countless jobs and reassured Grand River’s clients that they are here to stay,” Jenks said.

Selip said that when they started the business 35 years ago, they didn’t realize that the hardest part about starting a company is what to do with it in the end.

“We just figured that you build a good organization and when you are ready to retire, you just sell it to the highest bidder. One problem with that – we never thought about the fact that

Lift Bridge Community Association chair Shelly Mullen accepted the Bey Blanchard Presidents’s Award at the Growth Partnership dinner Tuesday evening. Mullen said the closing of the lift bridge in Ashtabula Harbor for repairs in 2008 turned out to be a blessing in disguise, uniting the merchants to promote and develop the historic Ashtabula Harbor.

One of their goals is to return fireworks to the city of Ashtabula. we would end up liking the people that worked for us and there’s the dilemma,” Selip said. “Twice in our history, in 1998 and in 2007, we came this close to selling. In both cases, as Joe and I got into the due diligence process, which by the way was our due diligence as well, there was just something that didn’t sit right.”

They decided to sell the company to the people who need it most – the employees, Selip said.

Laura Jones presented the award to Green, who represented the Sheldon Cavalry Camp.

“Calvary Camp remains today a simple place where the emphasis is in shaping the lives of young people and adults. The hope of Calvary Camp is to prepare children and young adults for the world with the hope that they will interface all humanity with dignity, respect and grace,” Jones said.

Green noted that some people may not have heard of the Sheldon Calvary Camp until this evening.

“Our mission is quite simple, and that is to provide a place where friendships are nurtured, acceptance of individual differences is modeled and all of God’s creation is valued,” Green said. “This year marks our 75th anniversary. We were privileged enough to have worked with over 1,000 children in our traditional camp programs, those children hailing from 25 different states and several countries. We worked with over 1,000 individuals in our extended season programs and our family camps. We employed 94 individuals this summer, which may even make us the second largest employer in North Kingsville.”

Growth Partnership President Sue Stocker presented the award to Mullen and the LBCA. “If you’ve been in the Historic Ashtabula Harbor lately, I’m sure you’ve noticed all of the wonderful changes that have taken place over the last couple of

years. Thanks to the Lift Bridge Community Association, which was formed in 2008, the entire area has a new united purpose. This group of committed people saw the need for the merchants and other businesses to come together for the good of the community,” Stocker said.

In her acceptance speech, Mullen said that, in 2008, serendipity brought about a series of wonderful events.

“The reality that our iconic Lift Bridge at the foot of our commercial district would be closed for construction brought both thru traffic and the merchants on Bridge Street to a dead stop.

It was this reality that inspired a very insightful man (Ren Carlisle) to ask if we could just sit down, talk and figure out not only how we would survive the upcoming year, but also how we would thrive for years to come. The bridge made people stop.

Our job was to give them reason to stay,” Mullen said.

“From that moment on, we no longer looked at ourselves as individual businesses owners. We became a unit. A collective. A community. We went from identity crisis to knowing exactly whom we are, what we could become and how we intended to get there.”

Mullen said their mission is to become a regional destination for tourism, recreation and entertainment.

“Our energy has become infectious. Over half of our 74 members are supporters well beyond Bridge Street.

They are our cheerleaders, our ambassadors who offer not only moral support and belief in our mission but eagerly donate their time, money and good deeds as committed volunteers,” Mullen said. “Our district now hosts two major events, the Beach Glass Festival and the Wine and Walleye, that combined bring in roughly half of a million dollars in just four days. Our goal in 2012 is to resurrect the Blessing of the Fleet in May and fireworks in July.”

Lewis Shiley presented the award to Murtha and Continental Structural Plastics of Ohio, which makes fiberglass, reinforced plastic parts primarily for the automotive industry.

“This Conneaut facility has seen several ownership changes over the years yet has kept its employee-base steady and well trained. It is operating more safely and has strong continuous improvement strategies underway. CSP has been an excellent corporate citizen to Conneaut, not only in creating and retaining jobs, but also in supporting community activities.”

Murtha thanked all the wonderful hard-working employees of the CSP Conneaut team.

“Their dedication to the plant and to our customers has made our facility in Conneaut the success it is today. Thanks to each and everyone one of you,” Murtha said.

“CSP Conneaut will continue to be a responsible corporate citizen and support our community. We will stress safety, quality, communication and cooperation and strive for continuous improvement within our system to keep jobs in

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Ashtabula County.”

Ashtabula County Convention and Visitors Bureau Executive Director Mark Winchell presented the George H. Kaull Award for Entrepreneurship to Prochko of Covered Bridge Gardens.

“The Prochko family has been farming in Ashtabula County for 75 years. Covered Bridge Gardens is the family’s most recent venture. Mick Prochko has gone beyond harvesting produce and sending it off to market.

He has spread the goodness of Ashtabula County farming. Mick has shown how agriculture is important to Ashtabula County and how many people who live in larger cities yearn for fresh produce,” Winchell said.

Prochko said that passion is something that comes from the heart.

“It cannot be taught nor can it be bought. You either have it or you don’t,” Prochko said. “Why else would you give up a comfy eight to five job with benefits for the thrills and excitement of the local Jerry Springer Show? The yelling and screaming that accompany each and every Friday night packing. The blood curdling screams of the radio at 4:30 a.m. telling you it’s time to get up and put those fresh cut flowers in the truck. It is not me that this award is for. It is for my family that has put up with my craziness for the last ten years. It is for the employees, many of whom that have returned year after year to see if my head really would explode.”

Prochko said they do it for the fun and adventure.

“People ask me when I want to retire. I tell them never. This is a game for me, a game where the outcome is people like you that appreciate what we do,” Prochko said.

Tina Stasiewski and Wendy Snyder presented the award to Community Care Ambulance, represented by Rose.

“Community Care Ambulance is so much more than just an ambulance service.

In fact, CCA only transports patients with medical emergencies a small percentage of the time. Most of the miles logged in its fleet of vehicles are for patients who cannot get themselves from home to the doctor’s office,” Stasiewski said.

Snyder said CCA has positively impacted Ashtabula County not only through quality and timely medical transportation, but also through community involvement and outreach.

“Community Care sprung from an idea - could healthcare providers do better for our communities by cooperating and collaborating? We believe that the success of CCA has answered that question with a resounding ‘yes,’” Rose said.

In 1994, the Ashtabula County Medical Center and Memorial Hospital of Geneva, now University Hospitals Geneva Medical Center Boards of Trustees, approved a proposal to create a new, not-for-profit full service EMS and medical transportation organization to better serve the needs of Ashtabula County residents, Rose said.

“Since its inception CCA has exponentially grown and now serves 911 contracts, hospitals and nursing facilities in Ashtabula, Geauga and Lake counties, employing over 160 certified critical intensive care providers, paramedics, advanced and basic EMTs, emergency medical dispatchers, wheelchair technicians and support personnel that care for over 50,000 patients a year,” Rose said.

“Our fleet of vehicles travels over a million and half miles a year transporting patients.”

Medical Reserve Corp. to meet Sept. 26 The next Medical Reserve Corp. meeting will be held on Monday, Sept. 26, at 7 p.m. in the basement meeting room of the Ashtabula County Health Department.

It is National Preparedness Month, and there’s no better time to remind the public of the importance of volunteering. Renee Palagyi of the Red Cross will be the guest speaker, and it should be an very enjoyable evening.

WEDNESDAY, September 21, 2011

GRAPETTE

GAZETTE NEWSPAPERS • 7A

From page 1A

first attendant Madelynn McKinney and second attendant Teagan Gilbert.

The Grapette Pageant is the first main event of the Grape JAMboree, which will begin its festivities this Saturday and end on Sunday. All Grapettes will be making appearances as representatives of the JAMboree.

David Johnson, president of the committee that organizes the festival, was excited to see this year’s Grapettes crowned and was ready for another great year of grape festivities in Geneva.

“I’d like to thank everyone for attending what we consider the first event of the 48th annual Grape JAMboree,” Johnson said.

2010 Little Miss Grapette Abigail Riffe says her farewell speech with the help of former Grapettes Kayla Carabotta and Mikaela Sandstrom.

Amelia Mac Williams received the title of second attendant for Junior Miss Grapette.

Little Miss Grapette was awarded to Lexi Donato.

Paige Mottley was given the crown for Junior Miss MC Jeff Tanchek stands with Miss Grapette Brandi Vourka, center, and her first and second attendants, Katie Peck, Grapette. right, and Devin Travis.

Karlie Bradbury receives her crown and sash after being named Young Miss Grapette at Saturday’s pageant.

Junior Miss Grapette first attendant went to Kaitlyn Keenan.

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8A • GAZETTE NEWSPAPERS

WEDNESDAY, September 21, 2011

Crafts come back to Lakeshore Park for third year

BY SADIE PORTMAN Gazette Newspapers ASHTABULA TOWNSHIP - Lakeshore Park in Ashtabula was overfilled with crafts and homemade food and furniture on Saturday and Sunday, Sept. 10-11, as the Crafts in the Park made its third annual appearance.

Many people have been coming since the beginning, like Dolly Rogers, who sews and makes a variety of crocheted and needlepoint crafts.

“It’s a great location and there’s good people to be with,” Rogers said.

Rogers has been making crafts to sell since 2001.

“I always did crafts for myself, but after the kids left home and stuff, I had time for myself and time to do the things I wanted to do,” Rogers said.

Many jewelers also set up booths.

“There’s a great crowd and it gets me ready for Village Peddler,” Theresa Wilmington said Wilmington goes across the east coast looking for the perfect stone to accent her jewelry.

“The rocks we did from Georgia and New York and North Carolina,” Wilmington said.

The people of Ashtabula County took to the Wilmington’s jewelry.

“There’s a lot of people who appreciate handmade stuff instead of things that might not be as well made in a store,” Wilmington said.

The local Boy Scouts also gave out a helping hand by carrying many crafters’ items to their tents as the rain began to pour.

“We had a whole herd of them helping and carrying stuff,” James Olsen of Jimbo Toys said.

Candy Arp, the organizer of the event, was pleased with the crowd, who came even in Saturday’s rain.

Arp likes to see the wide variety of areas people will come to for the Crafts in the Park.

“A lot of the vendors last year commented on how many Pittsburgh shoppers they had,” Arp said. “It’s because of the advertising I do, and a lot of that is just fliers and footwork.”

The money made from the show goes into the yearly advertising.

“Everything we sell as far as the vendors spaces and the Chinese auction, that will all go mainly to advertising,” Arp said.

“We do major advertising to Erie, Cleveland, Pittsburgh, Meadeville, everywhere.”

Arp begins advertising in March, but not all the money will go to advertising. They also make a donation to the park every year for the park to purchase new flowers.

“We make our donation around November every year after all the bills are paid and we ask them to put it in the flower fund,” Arp said. “We love it down here. It’s absolutely the best atmosphere.”

Each year Arp has seen the show grow, not just in crowd numbers but in the number of vendors as well.

“The first year we had 52 vendors and last year we grew to 77 and this year we James Olsen displayed his handcrafted wooden toys. All the toys were made of cherry have 94,” Arp said. wood, which is Olsen’s wood of choice since it has a nice finish and is hard to splinter.

Arp said the first year was hard since vendors want to sell in a show that has longevity.

“Some of my vendors that are here today actually came down and walked around the first year and they had that look on their face that said, ‘I should have been here,’” Arp said.

Arp is proud the show has gained a reputation after only three years.

“We get a lot of positive feedback,” Arp said.

Sadie Portman, reporter for the Gazette, may be reached at sportman@gazette news.com.

People look at Bitsie Boutique’s wide array of dog collars and homemade pet treats during Crafts in the Park.

PHOTOS BY SADIE PORTMAN

Even in the rain the crowds came to Lakeshore Park as they looked at a variety of crafts from jewelry to wind chimes during a craft show Sept. 10-11.

Doris Higley and Donna McLean sold their jewelry at the park on Saturday, Sept. 10.

McLean began crafting bracelets and earrings after retiring from nursing and Higley soon followed her lead.

McDonald’s celebrates National People Week

BY SADIE PORTMAN Gazette Newspapers

Umbrellas were a widely seen attire at the Crafts in the Park event at Lakeshore Park Saturday morning, Sept. 10.

The Boy Scouts served the people of Lakeshore Park hot dogs and chili as a fundraiser.

GENEVA - McDonald’s is honoring its customers with National People Week, starting Sept. 18 and going through the 24.

“At McDonald’s, we believe that our people are the foundation for our business. They bring our brand to life for our customers by delivering a simple, easy and enjoyable experience,” Laura Hegedus, of Stern Public Relations, said.

McDonald’s wants to connect to the community, as well as celebrate their hard workers who serve the people of Ashtabula County every day.

“To celebrate McDonald’s hardworking employees and to bring well-deserved attention to the dedicated crew members who serve our communities every day, McDonald’s of Northeastern Ohio will be participating in National People Week, Sept. 18 – 24, 2011,” Hegedus said. “This weeklong celebration is part of a nationwide initiative for McDonald’s and its franchisees.”

Hegedus said many people forget about those working behind the counter and those working to keep McDonald’s a community staple.

“At McDonald’s, the crew and management teams are the pioneers of this great McDonald’s system. From corporate employees, vendors and restau-

rant staff, they have helped to build the foundation and have set the values of Ray Kroc’s vision of unending determination,” McDonald’s Regional Marketing Manager Joe Woods said.

McDonald’s creates jobs for many people in Ashtabula and provides a system in which they can climb the ladder, working their way to the top.

“I started 33 years ago working the French fries station at my neighborhood McDonald’s restaurant and now, I’m president of McDonald’s USA. My story really isn’t that unique. More than half of McDonald’s franchisees and 75 percent of restaurant managers started at entry-level jobs,” said Jan. Fields, McDonald’s USA president.

To help in the festivities, Ronald McDonald will be visiting the McDonald’s on 918 Lake Ave. in Ashtabula, 2424 E. Prospect Road in Ashtabula and 807 Broadway in Geneva on Wednesday, Sept. 14. All are welcomed to attend.

Hegedus is excited to share McDonald’s triumphs with the community.

“A majority of these restaurants are owned and operated by independent franchisees that take pride in serving their communities,” Hegedus said.

Sadie Portman, reporter for the Gazette, may be reached at sportman@ gazettenews.com.

WEDNESDAY, September 21, 2011

GAZETTE NEWSPAPERS • 9A

Geneva Area Chamber of Commerce P.O. Box 84 • 866 East Main Street • Geneva, Ohio 44041 Phone: 440-466-8694 • Fax: 440-466-0823 Email: info@genevachamber.org • Website: www.genevachamber.org

2011 Board of Directors & Officers Officers President: Tim Lenart, Individual I-Vice President: Bill Widlits, Chestnut Homes II-Vice President: Kim Patrone, Quail Hollow Resort Treasurer: Douglas Braun, Lakeview Federal Credit Union Executive Director: Sue Ellen Foote

Board of Directors Jennifer Brown, City of Geneva Beth Cheney, Rae-Ann Geneva Skilled Nursing & Rehabilitation Center Jaime Cordova, Spire Academy/ GaREAT Geoff Freeman, Free-Mar Telecommunications Mike Goddard, Crawford Insurance Agency Cliff Henry, Harpersfield Township Brett Horvath, Geneva Area City Schools Evan Jahn, Waste Management Shirley Lehmann, Northwest Savings Bank Tony Long, JLS Computer & Accounting Service Rich Phinney, Rosemary’s Pizza Richard Pruden, Geneva Township Darrell Ramsey, HDT EP, Inc. Amanda Tirotta, Lakeview Federal Credit Union Richard Trice, UH Geneva Medical Center Terri Vincent, Loudermilk Tractor & Cycle

Place Your Business Advertising Here!

For More Information, Call Rick Briggs 440-576-9125 x106

WELCOME NEW MEMBER

COMMUNITY CALENDAR OF EVENTS Sept. 23, Chalet Debonné Clam/Steak Bake, reservation 466-3485.

Conneaut Savings Bank P. O. Box 221, Austinburg, OH 44010 Contact: Lori Stevens, Branch Manager Phone: (440) 275-3554, Fax: (440) 275-2036 Web: www.conneautsavings.com Email: lstevens@conneautsavings.com Local bank. Loan decisions made locally. Fast, prompt, courteous services. Offering savings accounts, checking accounts, certificate of deposit, mortgage loans, auto loans, equity loans, and boat, ATV, and RV loans.

Earth's Natural Treasurers Location: 5503 Lake Rd. East, Geneva-on-the-Lake, Ohio Mailing: 460 Clay St., Geneva, Ohio 44041 Contact: Sharon Bezoski Phone: (440) 813-2501, Fax: (440) 466-4481 Web: www.earthnaturaltreasures.com Email: entreasures@live.com Our products are natural healing products to uplift the body, mind and spirit. Local artist feature their work. We have unique clothing, sterling silver and gemstone jewelry, lucky bamboo, crystals, gemstones rough and polished, crystals, natural healing herbal health and body products, and more.

Sept. 24-25, 48th Annual Geneva Grape Jamboree, parades, entertainment, contests and rides, Sat. 10-10, Sun., noon-10 p.m., Parade Sat 1:30 p.m. & Sun. 2 p.m.FMI www.grapejamboree.com or 466JAMB. Sept. 24-25, Old Mill Winery celebrates the Grape Jamboree, 403 S. Broadway, Geneva. FMI 466-5560 or www.theoldmillwinery.com Oct. 1, Grand River Academy tour of the new Robert S. Morrison Lecture Center, 3-5 p.m., dedication ceremony 6 p.m. FMI 275-2811.

Oct. 2, & 9, Ferrante Winery Trolley Tour & Cavatelli Dinner. Trolley tours begin at noon, 1 p.m, 2 p.m, & 3p.m.. Your afternoon beings with an educational tour to a select number of Ashtabula County's historic covered bridges. After the tour guests will be served a cavatelli dinner at Ferrante Winery. Seating is Limited. Pre-paid reservations only, at (440) 466-8466 or alyssa@ferrantewinery.com.

Oct. & Nov. every weekend Old Mill Winery Clam Dinners, 403 S. Broadway, Geneva. FMI www.theoldmillwinery.com or 466-5560 Oct. 7, Geneva Business Association Scarecrow Contest Winners announced.

Oct. 8-9, Ashtabula County Covered Bridge Festival. FMI 576-3769 or www.coveredbridgefestival.org.

Oct. 8, Geneva's Shortest Covered Bridge Dedication, 2 p.m.

48TH ANNUAL GENEVA GRAPE JAMBOREE SEPTEMBER 24 & 25, 2011

Oct. 14, No School Geneva students NEOEA. Oct. 15, Old Mill Winery Sweetest Day special 466-5560 or www.theoldmillwinery.com.

Jamboree Programs can be picked up at the Chamber office or at various locations in Geneva.

Parades: Saturday 1:30 p.m., and Sunday 2 p.m.

Honorary Grand Marshall is Ron Clutter, the 2010 Citizen of the Year.

Phone: (440) 466-JAMB-Web: www.grapejamboree.com

GENEVA AREA CHAMBER HOSTS CANDIDATES NIGHT Wednesday, October 26, 2011 at 7 p.m.

Geneva Community Center, 72 W. Main St., Geneva Come meet the candidates - Free to the public Invited candidates in races and information about levies for Geneva City, Geneva Township, Geneva-on-the-Lake, Austinburg Township, Harpersfield Township, and Geneva School Board. FMI 466-8694 Lakeview Federal Credit Union is a cooperative financial institution, owned and controlled by the people who use its services. These people are members.

Lakeview is a community-chartered credit union. Which means, as long as you live, work or worship in Ashtabula County, you are eligible for membership. Stop in or call 440.415.9900 for details on how to join today!

Geneva Area Chamber of Commerce Citizen of the Year

Oct. 26, Geneva Area Chamber hosts Candidates Night, 7 p.m. at Geneva Community Center, Open to the public, Come meet the candidates. FMI 466-8694.

Oct. 29, Ghoulfest, Rt. 20 & Rt. 534, Geneva. Duck Run, pumpkin carving contests, costume contests, haunted gym, good, games & candy. FMI 466-9139 or 466-4675.

Oct. 29, The Lodge & Conference Center Vintners Dinner, FMI 466-7100 or www.TheLodgeAtGeneva.com Oct. 29, The Lodge & Conference Center Halloween Party, entertainment, dinner specials, drink specials, costume contest & more.

466-7100 or www.TheLodgeAtGeneva.com.

Oct. 30, Trick-or-Treat for Geneva, Geneva Township, Harpersfield Township, Geneva-on-the-Lake, 4-6 p.m.

The Haunted Forest of Powderhorn The 5th Annual Haunted Forest of Powderhorn, is located at 3991 Bates Road, Madison. Come walk over 1 mile of dark forest trails where creatures of the forest will scare you. The event is used to help the Perry High School Golf Team. Admission is $9 for adults and $7 for students. The Haunted Forest is open every Friday and Saturday night in October, beginning October 1, from dark to 11 p.m. or when the line ends. Discount coupons are at various Madison locations. For details call 428-5951.

Nomination forms for the Geneva Area Citizen of the Year are available at the Chamber office. Call or stop in to pick one up. Nominations need to be returned to the Chamber office by November 9, 2011. The new 2011 Geneva Area Chamber of Commerce Citizen of the Year will be announced at the Annual dinner on Wednesday, December 7, 2011. The City of Geneva will also award the new 2011 Geneva Economic Development Awards. This year the Annual Dinner will be held at the Spire Institute.

2011 Geneva High School Football Schedule 9-23 9-30 10-7 10-13 10-21 10-28

Grand River Academy Dedication Ceremony of New Lecture Center Saturday, October 1, 2011 Grand River Academy will host an open house and tour of the new Robert S. Morrison Lecture Center. This will be open to the public from 3:00 to 5:00 p.m. The dedication ceremony will take place at 6 p.m. The festivities will be in conjunction with their alumni weekend.

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Geneva's Shortest Covered Bridge Dedication Ceremony will be during the Ashtabula County Covered Bridge Festival on October 8. 2011 starting at 2 p.m.

The bridge is located on Liberty Street from South Eagle to South Broadway.

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10A • GAZETTE NEWSPAPERS

WEDNESDAY, September 21, 2011

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PHOTO BY SADIE PORTMAN New salesman Bill Paananen shows off some of Weather Sealco’s new windows on display.

BY SADIE PORTMAN Gazette Newspapers ASHTABULA - For 70 years, WSA Weather Sealco has been family-owned and operated, giving the community knowledge on many home improvement jobs.

Located at 4707 State Rd. in Ashtabula, Weather Sealco is proud to serve the county.

“We pretty much do everything that is a part of exterior home improvement,” John Hogan said.

Weather Sealco does a variety of work, including replacement windows, vinyl siding, entry doors, storm doors, awnings, vinyl railing and decking and garage overhead doors.

“They can either purchase the materials from us, or they can be professionally installed by us,” Hogan said. “A lot of people don’t realize that we’ll sell to the home owner as well, so if they just want to buy product, we can do that.”

With the fall now coming, it is the perfect time of year to begin looking at replacing drafty windows and making your house more energy efficient.

“This time of year, replacement windows are a good thing to think about getting ready for winter,” Hogan said.

Installing premiumgrade vinyl windows can save the home owner up to 30 percent off their energy bills, he said. Hogan said that by just replacing windows, a big difference in your winter energy bills will be noticeable.

“We’re really able to tighten people’s homes up and get them energy effi-

cient so they’re not just heating the outside, and we help them reduce their energy costs,” Hogan said.

Although vinyl siding makes less work for a home owner, it can also help on heating and cooling costs as well.

“Vinyl siding is more of an aesthetic with people not wanting to paint their homes, but they do help tighten the house up as well and stop drafts,” Hogan said.

Hogan said it’s important to get windows and siding jobs done before the winter months hit.

“We want people to think ahead and get some of these things done before the major winter hits,” Hogan said.

Weather Sealco, along with hitting a major anniversary this year, has also increased their sales team by hiring Bill Paananen. “[Paananen] is very knowledgeable and has been in the business for 20 years,” Hogan said.

Adding the personal and family atmosphere, along with having a wide knowledge of the home exterior improvements, is what has kept Weather Sealco in business for so long.

“We’re all professional and know what we’re doing and we know what we’re talking about,” Hogan said.

WSA Weather Sealco is open from 8 a.m. until 4:30 p.m. Monday through Friday and 8 a.m. until noon on Saturdays. You can call (440) 992-9181 to make an appointment or their toll free line at (800) 992-9181.

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WEDNESDAY, September 21, 2011

GAZETTE NEWSPAPERS • 11A

Kent State University at Ashtabula opens state-of-the-art learning facilities in Main Hall ASHTABULA - Kent State University at Ashtabula announces the completion of a major renovation to the north wing of the second floor of Main Hall on the campus.

The renovation and updates, which cost $1.2 million, was funded completely by Kent State University at Ashtabula funds.

Construction started in May of this year, and was completed in time for students’ arrival for Fall Semester, 2011.

The renovation includes: • Dedicated Physics and Geology labs, complete with science casework, technology interface and reconfigurable bench tops for flexible teaching configurations.

• Full reconfiguration of four (4) general instructional classrooms to accommodate 30, and up to 60 students.

• Interior décor that draws inspiration from Lake Erie and the history and heritage of Ashtabula through color, texture and wall graphics.

• Student lounge to accommodate ten (10) students in a central space.

• Full fire alarm replacement and installation of automatic fire sprinkler system for renovated areas, including fire service line into Main Hall.

• Green initiatives, including energy efficient lamps and ballasts, and new energy efficient windows.

The opening of the state-of-the-art Robert S. Morrison Health and Science Building in 2009 was the first step in transforming the campus to promote a modern approach to higher education learning through collaboration, interactivity and engagement, providing every student a learning experience with the latest technologies and equipment.

“This renovation of A-wing is the next step in our vision to create a 21st Century learning environment, with the ultimate objective of providing the best possible place for students to grow and learn,” said Dr. Susan Stocker, dean and chief administrative officer of the campus.

Jeffery Foster, of Payto Architects, was the lead architect on the project. He worked in conjunction with Kent State University architect Susan Kirkhope. The interiors were designed by Kristin Nolan-Payto.

KSUA staff, faculty and students, and members of the community, celebrated the opening of the newly renovated wing at a ribbon-cutting ceremony on Friday, Sep. 9, 2011.

The next steps in the master plan to transform the campus are to renovate the technology building, which will consist of SUBMITTED PHOTOS moving the bookstore to that building. Work is planned to commence in the summer of Dr. Donald Driscoll, Assistant Professor of Physics, demonstrates a lesson in static electricity in the new physics lab, Kent State University at Ashtabula.

2012.

Students study in the new lounge at Kent State University at Ashtabula.

Pictured is the new classroom at Kent State University at Ashtabula.

They’ve got spirit Jefferson Area High School celebrated Spirit Week last week with theme days, a parade, the crowning of Homecoming king and queen and the Homecoming Dance.

SUBMITTED PHOTOS

Bionca McCullough, Chase Stowe, Autumn Hayes and Troy Bloom attended the JAHS Homecoming Dance on Saturday.

Jefferson Area High School Homecoming King Kyle Dunford and Queen Jackie Piscsalko dance together.

Alyssa McIntyre and Andrew Santiago pose for a photo.

Dressing up for Spirit Week were Kayleen Altman, Ashton Allen, Leah Preslar, Mr. Fred Burazer, Casey Hall and Brad Kobernik

Assistant Principal Mr. Jeremy Huber is pictured with student Daran Woodin, who dressed as a teacher for Spirit Week.

The JAHS Junior Class ride on a float during the Homecoming Parade.

Jefferson Gazette Only

Getting ready to cheer on the Falcons were, left to right, Jarred Gifford, David Chase, Sheneese Summers, Jessica Woodin, Cooper Cleveland, Keston Schwotzer and Danielle Locy.

12A • GAZETTE NEWSPAPERS

WEDNESDAY, September 21, 2011

New JAHS Alumni of the Year chosen Falcons Menus Jefferson & Rock Creek Elementary Schools Breakfast 9/21 9/22 9/23 9/26 9/27 9/28 9/29 9/30

French toast sticks, sausage patty, fruit juice or fruit Egg & sausage on a biscuit, fruit juice or fruit Warm cinnamon roll, fruit juice or fruit Choice of cereal, fruit pop-tart, fruit juice or fruit Whole wheat pancake, sausage links, fruit juice or fruit Breakfast casserole, fruit juice or fruit Benefit nutrition bar, fruit juice or fruit Breakfast pizza, fruit juice or fruit PHOTOS BY STEFANIE WESSELL

Lunch 9/21 9/22 9/23 9/26 9/27 9/28 9/29 9/30

Previous Alumni of the Year gathered to present the honor onto Joey Paul during the Homecoming game this past Friday. Pictured, from left, are 2006 Alumni of the Mary Hostetler, Joey Paul, daughter Elizabeth Paul, wife Barbie Paul and 2005 Alumni of the Year Pat Inman. positive role models for present or fu- Year receives a plaque, and their name

BY STEFANIE WESSELL ture students.

Gazette Newspapers is added to a collective plaque that will Paul attended Rock Creek Elemen- be on display in the new board office.

JEFFERSON - A new Jefferson tary School and is a 1980 graduate of Area High School Alumni of the Year Jefferson Area High School.

Past recipients and their During the ceremony, a list of Paul’s was chosen prior to the Homecoming football game against the Grand Val- many achievements was read, many of year of award are as follows: ley Mustangs on Friday, Sept. 16. which dealt with his time serving in the 1996 - Stewart Case Each year, the Jefferson Area Edu- U.S. military in a variety of leadership 1997 - Millie Stutzman cation Foundation presents a plaque positions. Among his honors is receiv1998 - John Glazier to the new Alumni Hall of Fame mem- ing the Distinguished Service Medal.

1999 - Lawrence Anderson, Jr. Paul and his wife Barbie have three ber before the Homecoming game.

2000 - Herbert Housel This year, as past Alumni of the children: Alex, a graduate of the U.S. 2001 - Betty Mae Shear Year stood by him, the honor was pre- Air Force Academy; Sarah, a 2010 2002 - Larry and Carol Bragga sented to Joseph Paul. Paul’s wife, graduate of Jefferson Area High 2003 - Dr. Richard L. Waters Barbie, and daughter, Elizabeth, at- School; and Elizabeth. Alex and his 2004 - James Martin tended the brief ceremony with him. wife Dagmar recently celebrated the 2005 - Pat Inman Members of the community were birth of their daughter, Saskia.

2006 - Mary Hostetler The Jefferson Area Education invited to nominate alumni who have 2007 - Marcia Park contributed significantly to their pro- Foundation first created the Alumni 2008 - Dave Keep fession, their school or their commu- of the Year award in 1996. Every year, 2009 - Jim Baker nity. The nominees are considered the person chosen as Alumni of the 2010 - Dr. John R. Patterson

Macaroni & cheese, PB & jelly pocket, mixed vegetables, diced pears Grilled ham & cheese sandwich, tomato soup, saltines, mixed fruit Hawaiian pizza, broccoli & cauliflower with dip, boxed raisins Popcorn chicken, waffle potatoes, dinner roll, diced pears Cream turkey over mashed potatoes, biscuit, California blend, peach cup Chef ’s salad w/lettuce, meat & cheese, pepperoni breadstick, pineapple tidbits Corn dog w/dip, potato triangle, petite banana French bread pizza, garden fresh salad, pineapple tidbits

Jefferson Area Junior/Senior High School Breakfast 9/21 9/22 9/23 9/26 9/27 9/28 9/29 9/30

French toast sticks, sausage patty, fruit juice or fruit Blueberry pancake wrap, fruit juice or fruit Wheat breakfast bar, mozzarella string cheese, fruit juice or fruit Fruit pop-tart, yogurt go-gurt, fruit juice or fruit Sausage, egg & cheese on biscuit, fruit juice or fruit Cocoa krispie bar, hard boiled egg, fruit juice or fruit Ham, egg & cheese wrap, fruit juice or fruit Whole wheat pancakes, sausage patty, fruit juice or fruit

Lunch 9/21 9/22 9/23

Taco salad w/lettuce, meat & cheese, refried beans, applesauce, cinnamon sticks Turkey & cheese croissant, pasta salad, veggies & dip, blueberry crisp Pepperoni pizza, fried rice, seasoned carrots, fruit cup

Jefferson & Rock Creek Elementary schools

Jefferson Area Junior/ Senior High School

Breakfast Price: $1.50 Reduced Price: .30 Milk Price: .50

Breakfast Price: $1.50 Reduced Price: .30 Milk Price: .50

Lunch Price: $2.50 Reduced Price: .40 Milk Price: .50

Joey Paul was named the Jefferson Area High School Alumni of the Year prior to the Homecoming football 2006 Alumni of the Mary Hostetler congratulates Joey game on Friday, Sept. 16. Paul is pictured with his wife Paul on being named to the JAHS Alumni Hall of Fame. Barbie and daughter Elizabeth.

Lunch Price: $2.75 Reduced Price: .40 Milk Price: .50

Students invited to free College Knowledge program

JEFFERSON - When should a student think about and plan for college? Is it soon enough to start the process while one is in line to receive his high school diploma? Or JEFFERSON - The Jefferson Fire Department will should one really begin planhold a Swiss steak dinner from 4-7 p.m. Sept. 24 at its ning in tenth grade when refacility on 98 E. Jefferson St. in Jefferson. The price is port cards are issued for the $8 per person. The dinner will include meal, dessert year? Or before? and drink. Dine in or take out are available. All proThe Jefferson Historical ceeds benefit the Jefferson Firefighters Association.

Society will be presenting a free program entitled College Knowledge on Sunday, Sept.

25, at 2 p.m. Pat Inman, the Historical Society’s treasurer and a former guidance counThe Jefferson Community Center, located at 11 E. selor at Jefferson Area Local Jefferson St., will have its first annual reverse raffle Schools, will answer those on Nov. 1. The cost is a $35 donation. Doors open at questions along with many 4:30 p.m. Ticket includes dinner, beverage and dessert. others. She will suggest avThere will be a Chinese auction, silent auction, bingo, enues students need to invesside boards and a 50/50 raffle. To purchase tickets, call tigate in order to be the best candidate for a college or uni576-9052.

Jefferson Fire Department to present Swiss steak dinner

Nov. 1 Jefferson: Community Center Reverse Raffle

versity to accept.

Are grades the only area that is looked at? Does volunteering count? What is the place of extracurriculars?

How does one bring up a low GPA (grade point average)?

The presentation will be followed by a question-andanswer session, along with light refreshments. Parents are invited to attend along with their children. The Jefferson Historical Society is located at 42 East Jefferson Street.

As a former guidance counselor, Mrs. Inman has helped students in applying for and securing many millions of dollars in scholarships. Come see if she has ideas that might help you or your child on the road to higher education.

READ ALL ABOUT IT...

Every Week in Your Local Community Newspaper

$ 00 The 30 Gazette 46 Per Year

Out Of County $

Jefferson Area

00

PHOTO BY STEFANIE WESSELL

Pat Inman, the Jefferson Historical Society’s treasurer and a former guidance counselor at Jefferson Area Local Schools, will speak at a program titled College Knowledge.

The Ashtabula County

Gazette Geneva • Ashtabula

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WEDNESDAY, September 21, 2011

GAZETTE NEWSPAPERS • 13A

An itch worth scratching Jefferson Community Center brings back

By Josh Wood Eagleville Bible Church

Halloween fun with Boo in the Park

Growing up on a ranch in the hills of north central Arkansas, I was always getting into things. There were many old barns and sheds on my dad’s property and my siblings and I loved to go exploring! I don’t know if it was just my luck or not, but it was always my sister and brother who would find the misfortune of running into a mouse, stepping on a snake, or falling into a hill of red ants (ok, maybe they were pushed, I can’t remember)! I began to carry myself with an attitude of invincibility.

In fact, to this day, I have still never gotten the chicken pox (don’t worry, I got my vaccine when I was a teenager, my mom insisted)! One other common side effect of living out in the country was the overabundance of poison ivy. Over all my years of running through the fields, climbing trees, and scavenging through run down barns, I never once got a spot of poison ivy! When I was twelve years old, I bragged to my boyscout troop that I wasn’t allergic and the boys pooled together $100 to give me if I would sleep in a patch of poison ivy all night. Not only did I do it, but I did it in nothing but my underwear and still nothing! Poison Ivy knew not to mess with me.

Now I am 27 years old and living in Northeast Ohio. Low and behold, two weeks ago I had my first ever bout with poison ivy… and it did not take it easy on me. Almost as if it knew that it had many years to make up for on this first occasion. I have now learned that poison ivy does not care who it goes after. If there is an opportunity to grow/infect, then it is going to do so. I can’t explain why it waited until now to come after me… probably just dumb luck.

Christians should be like poison ivy in the way that we spread the joy we have from Christ to others. Poison Ivy doesn’t play favorites, and neither does Christ! In James 2:1-13, James warns us against playing favorites with how we treat others. James uses the example of materialistic significance as determining factors in how we treat others.

He says that we are prone to treating the rich well and the poor… well, poorly.

Instead we should view others through the eyes of Christ, as lost souls that he sacrificed his life to save. If Jesus was willing to die for someone then they are definitely worthy of being treated with respect and dignity. Not only should we treat them well, but we should also make every attempt to help them come to saving knowledge of Jesus Christ! The joy we have inside should be contagious so that it rubs off on those we come in contact with… a lot like poison ivy.

In today’s world we have other classifications that determine how we treat people. For our young people in school, it may have to do with popularity or athletic ability. For those in the professional world, we may treat a colleague who is higher up on the chain of command differently than we would treat the guy who works in the mailroom or cleans the bathrooms.

Discrimination can also rear its ugly head in a place as innocent as the fast food line. If there is a person standing in line with poor hygiene we may choose to avoid them and go wait somewhere else, but doesn’t that person deserve to have the joy of Christ as well? Strive to look past the appearance, wealth, and social status of an individual and view them through the eyes of Christ.

Every person is a soul who Christ viewed as worthy of the ultimate sacrifice. What little sacrifices are we willing to make in order to bring the joy of Christ into someone’s life today?

So be a contagious Christian. Go out and infect your world!

SURVIVOR

BY SADIE PORTMAN Gazette Newspapers JEFFERSON - October is quickly approaching and with it brings the ghouls, ghosts and late night creatures of Halloween.

The Jefferson Community Center is once again planning a scary night of fun to celebrate Halloween during the days of October 22, 23, 28 and 29.

“Halloween is vastly approaching, and the Community Center is planning our annual Boo in the Park and Trail of Terror,” Allison Brown said.

The Community Center is looking for donations and help in once again organizing the event. Many local businesses and organizations have helped and even participated in the event in previous years.

“In the past years, companies and community groups such as Radio Shack and the Girl Scouts have participated,” Brown said.

All those who wish to participate are encouraged to contact Brown. Do-

nations are not just monetary, since the community center is opening its doors to all who have time, decorations or costumes to contribute to the project.

“We would like to invite all companies and employees interested to participate in this event,” Brown said.

The Boo in the Park has become a time-honored tradition in Jefferson and is only made possible through those who help and donate to the project.

The two-weekend event will be open to the public, and all those who attend will not be disappointed.

In the past, many volunteers have offered their assistance in transforming the trail and park into a spooky adventure with jumps and screams.

Brown said all who come to the park come in the hopes of being scared as well as having a good time. “[The volunteers and donations] have set up a spooky scene on the trail and helped to scare children who came in to be spooked,” Brown said.

League of Women Voters to hold informational forum on Nature Conservancy

ASHTABULA - Discover how a newly acquired property of The Nature Conservancy could provide an important new asset for Ashtabula County.

The League of Women Voters will hold an informational forum at 7 p.m. Sept. 27 at the Harbor-Topky Library, 1633 Walnut Blvd. in Ashtabula (near Walnut Beach).

Ashtabula County is the largest county in Ohio, with thousands of acres of highly productive farm land, but Ashtabula also has some of Ohio’s most wild and scenic rivers and wetlands home to many endangered species.

Many parts of Ohio are having serious problems controlling the water quality of their wetlands, lakes, rivers and streams.

A number of organizations are cooperating in our county and northeastern Ohio to mitigate some of these environmental problems.

One is The Nature Conservancy in Ohio, a nonprofit organization that recently received from the City Mission of Cleveland the 58-acre Grand Valley Christian Camp along the Grand River in southern Ashtabula County. With more than 25 buildings, this gives an important new asset, adding to their 1,300 acre Morgan Swamp Preserve, and providing them a new home base for the Conservancy in Northeast Ohio Guest speaker will be Karen Adair, TNC Northeast Ohio Projects Director. Karen is overseeing seven nature preserves, a three-year Great Lakes Restoration initiative grant focused on controlling and preventing invasive plant species throughout the Grand River watershed and the management of their new home office to be at the site of the former Grand Valley Christian Center.

Also speaking will be Sue Curkendall from Spire InstiFrom page 1A tute. Sue will talk about volunteering opportunities at Spite Institute and the advantages of being a volunteer.

Also speaking will be a person from the Citizens Corps, a organization that uses volunteers to respond to emergencies that can happen both locally and nationally.

Right now, the Community Center is compiling a list of people who can offer up their services for the event.

They will contact those who wish to help as the dates get closer.

Brown said the event brings the community together and offers all a chance to enjoy the Halloween festivities with friends and family.

“We hope to bring companies and people together by helping out in a very fun event,” Brown said.

Brown is looking forward to beginning the yearly event and creating another year of memories for all involved.

Brown would like to thank all who donate in advance by saying, “Thank you for any help you can offer.”

For more information, contact the Jefferson Community Center at (440) 576-9052.

Sadie Portman, reporter for the Gazette, may be reached at sportman@gazettenews.com

AHS/HHS/LHS Alumni Association is gathering class reunion photographs The AHS/HHS/LHS Alumni Association is gathering class reunion photographs for the new 2012 Alumni Directory. Please send your most recent class reunion photos (with captions) to encie@suite224.net.

A limited number of photographs may be used.

Please update your personal information at 1-800-2991230. You may also call this number to inquire about purchasing a directory.

VESTS

From page 1A

“The officer is alive today because of this vest, so I think they are well worth their value,” Cantagallo said.

The City of Ashtabula has chosen Fire Force Incorporated to contract the ballistic vests. The company is located in both Butler, Pennsylvania and Columbiana, Ohio. According to their website, they have been in busy for 22 years providing products and services for both fire departments and law enforcement agencies.

The measure was unanimously passed by Ashtabula City Council.

Sadie Portman, reporter for the Gazette, may be reached at sportman@gazettenews.com.

BOE

From page 1A

with members being highly in favor of it.

He said the church will obtain a loan to pay for the property, and he expects the church to fundraise for it as well.

Stefanie Wessell, senior editor for Gazette Newspapers, may be reached at swessell@gazettenews.com.

ACMC Women’s Cancer Awareness Luncheon

Holocaust survivor Philip Gans spoke to the students at Jefferson Area High School last Thursday. He spent two years in Auschwitz.

“You didn’t make friends because today he’s your friend and tomorrow he’s dead,” Gans said. “I never had any friends in camp.”

Gans’ father lasted the longest of all his family members, perishing during the death march. However, Gans said his father always had hope and left proof of this hope by burying valuables in the family’s backyard.

Gans’ father passed the hope to keep Gans alive while facing the tormenting events of the Holocaust.

“Hope. You never gave up hope,” Gans said.

When the Americans liberated Gans, he was fluent in both Dutch and German.

After they taught Gans English, he became an interpreter for the liberators.

Gans eventually returned to his old Holland homestead with a shovel and searched for the valuables his father had hid.

After digging a reasonably sized hole, Gans thought nothing was to be found. It wasn’t until he was patching the hole back up that he found a metal box.

“When I was shoveling the dirt back into the hole,

I heard a noise and it was a metal box. And in the box were my dad’s watch, a chain, jewelry, little gold pieces,” Gans said. “If he had known that we weren’t coming back, he would have never buried it. He would have given it to somebody.”

Gans allowed students to see the number 139755, which was tattooed on his arm by Auschwitz officials.

He was opened to questions.

“This is history. I’m not trying to get rich over it,” Gans said.

Gans said although the Nazi rule has been defeated, hate is still present throughout the world and can even be seen in the hallways of the schools.

“In this day and age with all the bullying going on, don’t be a bystander. Speak up,” Gans said. “If you see someone being bullied, go to a grown up, a teacher or principal.”

Gans said it starts with one person stepping up to stop the cycle of hate.

“Erase the hate. Don’t hate anybody,” Gans said.

Sadie Portman, reporter for the Gazette, may be reached at sportman@gazette news.com.

Saturday, October 22, 2011 The Elks Club 3115 Lake Road West (Across from Kent State) • Doors open at 10:30 am for shopping • Luncheon and entertainment at 11:30 am • Presentations at 12:30 pm $15 per person, $25 for you and your guest Join us in a show of female solidarity in support of one another, our families, friends and neighbors and learn about innovations and strides in cancer treatment.

Call 440-997-6555 to RSVP and prepay by October 14.

Seating is limited to 175.

Presentation by: Linda Heglund, RN ACMC Oncology Nurse Menu: Classic Chicken Salad on a Bed of Lettuce Pasta Salad Celebratory Cupcakes Coffee and Punch

Exhibitors and Vendors: ACMC Cancer Services ACMC Urology Dept.

American Cancer Society Alzheimer’s Association Bonnie’s Baskets & Wreaths Bridge Street Boutique Cookie Lee Jewelry Genentech Just Desserts Longaberger Michi Purses Partylite Candles Premiere Jewelry Sandpiper Gallery Scarves by Madelon Scentsy Zonta And MORE!

14A • GAZETTE NEWSPAPERS

WEDNESDAY, September 21, 2011