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VOLUME 4 No. 8
Friday, January 13, 2017
Voluntary Subscription Drive Crucial to Local News Like the Kirtland Chronicle? We really enjoy spending the month with you, through the pages of our newspaper as well as our website, www.kirtlandchronicle.com. The cost of publishing the Kirtland Chronicle is accomplished through the support of the generous advertisers you see. It’s because of them that we’re able to produce the Kirtland Chronicle, so we encourage you to patronize them. As a reader, we know you value a vibrant newspaper that is dedicated to and reflects the community in which you live. An informed public means citizens understand what is happening in their community and have a voice in its direction. However, the costs of production and delivery increase every year, so we need your
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receive from voluntary subscribers and advertisers is the only way we can continue to deliver the local coverage you deserve. Simply complete the subscription form in this edition or call 440-729-7667. We here at the Kirtland Chronicle are proud of our community and believe we are providing a vital service. On a personal level, I could not be more proud of the people that work to make the Kirtland Chronicle happen, the interest of our readers and the support of our advertisers. I want to thank all of our readers and advertisers for their continued support. John Karlovec Editor
BY MAGDALENE PESCH NEWS@KIRTLANDCHRONICLE.COM Between 800 and 1,000 gallons of diesel fuel leaked from a 32-yearold underground storage tank Nov. 23 at the Lake County Emergency Operations Center on Garfield Road, said Kirtland City Fire Chief Anthony Hutton at the Dec. 5 city council meeting. The fuel flowed about 3,000 feet downcreek, Hutton told council members. “The spill stopped before it got to the river, but the cleanup is pretty extensive. The spill was contained by a (hazardous materials) team,” Hutton told council members. “The Ohio EPA is currently overseeing the cleanup. They’ve had to remove some soil, go through everything before they turn the property back over to the owners.” He added Lake County’s insurance covered the costs of the cleanup and the county reimbursed the hazmat team. The only costs Kirtland covered were “some manpower costs,” Hutton said. Council also honored former Board of Zoning Appeals member Deloris Parsons for her years of service, reading a resolution commending her for “unselfishly giving See Council w Page 7
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A Note From The Mayor Page 3
City Helps Kirtland Animal Laws With Spotlighted in the New Year City Council Fuel Leak Hears Praise, Suggestions Cleanup Council Honors Longtime Zoning Appeals Member
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Hornets Nest Page 4
Inaugural Ice Festival Warms Up Winter Story on Page 7
BY MAGDALENE PESCH NEWS@KIRTLANDCHRONICLE.COM
Our furry cohabitants took the stage at the Kirtland City Council Jan. 4 meeting, drawing feedback from communities both far and near on an ordinance that would amend the city’s animal laws. In particular, the ordinance would give the city the ability to designate dangerous or vicious dogs, though it is not breed specific. It creates parameters that someone with a designated animal as dangerous or vicious must adhere to in order to keep their pet in the city. And it looks to stop people from feeding feral and wild cats to help control the population and keep the cats
Classifeds Page 8
Coffee with Council
MAGDALENE PESCH/KMG
Tony Fiorello, president of Willowick Community Cats, urges Kirtland City Council to “protect the humanity of the cats” while it protects the public welfare at the Jan. 4 council meeting.
away from residential areas, said Councilman Kevin Potter Jan. 11. The public was moved to offer both praise and suggestions at the Jan. 4 meeting for different
parts of Chapter 618 of the city ordinances. Willowick resident Tony Fiorello, See Animals w Page 6
Winter Weather Wreaks Havoc City Discusses Tempestuous Arrival of Old Man Winter BY MAGDALENE PESCH NEWS@KIRTLANDCHRONICLE.COM Despite clearer skies during the holidays, Kirtland City Council members and city officials discussed prior inclement weather, its ramifications and preparations for future bad weather at their Dec. 19 meeting. “(Kirtland) made national news,” said Service Administrator Carm Catania, regarding the magnitude of the December snowstorm that covered Kirtland in 34 inches of snow.
Councilman Matthew Schulz said he was “aware and thankful” of the Ohio Department of Transportation trucks maintaining Kirtland roads during the storms. He recommended Kirtland residents download an ODOT traffic smartphone application called OHGO, which allows users to see roads in real time, thus helping plan commute routes and commute timing. The application may be downloaded at http://www.dot.state.oh.us. Police Chief Wayne Baumgart
praised the service department’s response to the storm, saying how well it dealt with all of the snow Kirtland received. Mayor Doug Davidson also spoke about the major weatherrelated crash on I-90 that involved 50 vehicles and shut down I-90 for 15 hours. He praised Fire Chief Anthony Hutton’s efforts in helping coordinate triage for those harmed in the accident. Councilman Kevin Potter thanked Baumgart, Hutton and See Weather w Page 2
The next Coffee with Council is scheduled for Feb. 11, 9-10 a.m. at Kirtland City Hall. There is no January meeting. For more information, contact Kevin Potter at kpotter@kirtlandohio.com or 440-429-0293
Publication Schedule The Kirtland Chronicle publishes once a month. Karlovec Media Group reserves the right to change, cancel or add publication dates at any time. Jan. 13 Feb. 3 March 3 April 7 May 5 June 2
July 7 Aug. 4 Sept. 1 Oct. 6 Nov. 3 Dec. 1
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KIRTLAND CHRONICLE
Friday, January 13, 2017
William Wynder Recognized
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At the Jan. 4 council meeting, Mayor Doug Davidson, right, presented William Wynder with a proclamation in appreciation of his many contributions to the Kirtland community, including his service as director of the Historic Kirtland Visitor’s Center. William’s wife, Carol Wynder, whom the mayor said gave “invaluable assistance” to her husband, looks on.
Weather from page 1 Catania for their hard work during the storms and Councilman Kevin Eilerman said as a business woner, he is aware of how crucial road maintenance is, espeiclaly in adverse weather conditions. Catania credited his staff members with their care for their job, and their excellent and consistent care of city equipment, such as snowplows. He discussed the service department’s procedures during inclement weather, explaining that major roads are plowed first and “hills and curves” receive special attention. As much as possible, Catania said he keeps the same employee on the same snowplow route, as familiarization with a route will help the snowplow driver clear the route better knowing where roads rise or dip, knowing how far a certain curb might jut and other route specifics. The service department and the police dispatcher are “in constant contact,” said Catania, and plowers will prioritize areas that need to be cleared for emergency vehicles and other key areas indicated by the police. Schulz asked if Kirtland has ever investigated potential procedures for city-wide emergency notifications. At the public relations committee meeting that immediately preceded the council meeting, committee members Potter, Skrbis and Eilerman discussed how to use social and printed media more effectively in communicating with Kirtland residents in relation to both emergency and non-emergency matters. Potter distributed news articles and other literature that explore how other cities use social media and encouraged the P.R. committee to examine that literature and think of how social media might be used to increasingly benefit Kirtland and its citizens. In other business, council voted in favor of making the penalty in Kirtland for poisoning an animal the same as it is for killing or injuring an animal. “If you willfully and maliciously kill an animal, that is a second–degree misde-
MAGDALENE PESCH/KMG
Service Administrator Carm Catania discusses the typical snowplowing process in the city.
meanor. The ver y next section (in the Kirtland Code of Ordinances) was, if you willfully or maliciously poison an animal, it was only a fourth-degree misdemeanor. I felt we need consistency,” Umholtz said in an interview following the Dec. 19 meeting. He explained that a year ago, three pitbulls attacked and killed a dog that was walking with its owner, which sparked discussion at ensuing council meetings about Kirtland’s dog ordinances in general and suggested updates and changes to the code. Council also approved: • Resolution No. 16-R-59, authorizing Davidson to enter into a mutual agreement for technical assistance with the Lake County Soil and Water Conser vation District, and declaring an emergency. Schulz voted no, but declined comment further; • Ordinance 16-O-48, providing appropriations for the three-month period ending March 31, 2017; • Ordinance 16-O-49, designating financial institutions as public depositories; • Resolution 16-R-56, establishing standing committees of council; • Ordinance 16-O-57, which related to the appropriation for the year 2016; • Ordinance 16-O-58, which levies liens for delinquent sanitary sewer charges, after having removed a resident family that has paid its sewer charge arrear.
Friday, January 13, 2017
A NOTE
KIRTLAND CHRONICLE
FROM THE
MAYOR
Dear Kirtland Residents, lance, when delivered, will displace the oldI took a walk inside City Hall this New est ambulance in Chief Hutton’s fleet that is Year’s Day and stopped in to see JD, the battling rust and old age. departmental mascot at the police dispatch The next challenge for the 2017 budget office. will be the purchase of a front line pumper, JD appeared well rested and which allows the retirement of apparently did not overindulge in the reserve yellow-colored 1987 any way on New Year’s Eve. Pierce Arrow engine, and extendJD is also looking trim, as he ing the life of the 2003 American went from three feeding times a LaFrance pumpers by rotating day to two a couple months ago. them in use. While I was at the KPD side of Our Service Department has City Hall, Officer Martin was kind seven large single-axle trucks to enough to show me the two new cover their five routes during storms patrol cars. Both of the vehicles and all of their road activities. Mayor Doug are Fords and all-wheel drive. One One of the trucks, a 2009 Davidson vehicle is a Taurus and the other International, had an engine failis an Explorer. ure after our recent 32-inch snowTwo Crown Victoria police cruisers were fall, and the oldest truck of the fleet suffers retired after years of service to the residents from rust and salt and will need replacement of Kirtland. The old vehicle’s cost of mainte- this year. nance exceeded their value. Any new trucks we specify for service The new vehicles were a lease/purchase will have stainless steel beds to prolong at the state bid pricing. their useful life. The Fire Department has continued to In the 2016 and in the coming 2017 respond to a number of structure fires dur- budget, we continue to work to provide the ing the last months of 2016, both in Kirtland tools that our city employees need, so that and in mutual aid to our neighbors in Lake when called, they can respond effectively. County. KFD awaits the delivery of a replaceBest Regards, ment ambulance early in 2017. This ambuMayor Doug Davidson
KIRTLAND PUBLIC LIBRARY Kirtland Public Library is located at 9267 Chillicothe Road. Register for all programs at the front desk or call 440-256-7323.
Book Sale Dates for 2017 The Friends of the Kirtland Public Library book sale dates for 2017 are Feb. 4, May 6, Aug. 5 and Nov. 4. Hours are from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. for each sale, except Aug. 5 will keep the same hours as the yard sale — 8 a.m. to 2 p.m. The sales are held in the book cellar at the Kirtland Public Library, 9267 Chillicothe Road, Kirtland, 44094. All books are still selling for $3 a bag (furnished), specialty marked books $1 each, and DVDs, CDs, audiobooks and puzzles for $1 each. There is a huge assortment of books for all ages. See you there.
Writing Away the Winter Blahs Jan 28, 1 p.m. The Kirtland Public Library welcomes Tam Polzer for a winter-themed writing workshop. Polzer is a retired high school English teacher who taught at Riverside High School for 30 years in Painesville. She will lead participants in a series of guided meditations and writing exercises designed to help you relax, reminisce and reflect on the various seasons of your life. Participants are asked to bring their own writing materials. Call or visit the library to register for this program, which is sponsored by the Friends of the Kirtland Public Library.
Rock & Roll is Here to Stay Jan. 17, 7 p.m. James Henke, former chief curator at the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame in Cleveland, will share stories of the music industry at the Kirtland Public Library. Henke is a former music editor for “Rolling Stone,” who has interviewed such notable figures like Bruce Springsteen, Jerry Garcia and Eric Clapton. Henke is also the author of biographies on John Lennon, Jim Morrison and Bob Marley. Originally from Bay Village, Henke now resides in Cleveland Heights and writes for
the “Heights Observer” and other publications. This program is sponsored by the Friends of the Kirtland Public Library. Children’s, Teen and Family Programs in January
Forts and Stories Jan. 12, 6:30 p.m. Families, come and listen to a story about an owl and a rabbit who got in each other’s way when they made their houses. Then, create your own fort out of sheets under our table. Once your fort is complete, climb in and enjoy cookies and read books of your choice together. Please register and bring sheets or blankets and a flashlight.
Teen Cupcake Decorating Jan. 14 at 1 p.m. Teens, come decorate some delicious cupcakes with fun sprinkles, candies and more. Best part? You can take your cupcakes home — or you can eat them right away. Please register so we know how many cupcakes to bake.
Lego Builders Club Jan. 14 at 2 p.m.
Music and Movement Jan. 20 at 10 a.m. Children ages 2 years to 5 years, come join for some action songs, musical instruments, a parachute and yoga stretches for a cool down. A fun time is guaranteed for all. Please register for this program.
Snow Science Jan. 22 at 1 p.m. What secret ingredient can you use to lift an ice cube with a piece of string? How does blubber help wales when they swim in the cold ocean? Have you ever created an ice skater who skated along a table, indoors? Come to the snow science program and visit several different stations with wintry activities. Dress to mess. Families, please register.
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Jeffrey B. Karlovec John D. Karlovec Publisher Editor Cassandra C. Shofar Rick Briggs Pamela J. Molnar News Editor Sales Representative Production Supervisor Jamie A. Ward Brian Lavrich Sue Geither Sports Editor Sales Representative Graphic Design Ann Wishart Sharon Waite Karen S. Kaplan Staff Reporter In-House Sales Representative Graphic Design Deadlines • Editorial submissions are printed as space is available, at the publisher’s discretion, and may be edited for length, clarity and grammar. All submissions are due by noon on the Monday prior to the first Friday of each month for consideration for that month’s edition. •Email all editorial submissions to news@kirtlandchronicle.com. • The space reservation deadline for paid advertisements in that month’s Kirtland Chronicle is 4 p.m. on the Monday prior to the first Friday of each month. Late ads may be accepted at the discreation of mangement. • Email advertising requests and questions to ads@kirtlandchronicle.com. Circulation • The Kirtland Chronicle is distributed for free each month to homes and businesses in the communities of Kirtland, Kirtland Hills and Waite Hill. It is mailed through the U.S. Postal Service. • Copies are also available at more than 10 rack locations within Kirtland. • Circulation in excess of 3,300. • Produced monthly by the Kirtland Chronicle, LLC. • In case of error, we will re-print that portion of an advertisement that was in error. Notification of error should be made within three days of published date. The Kirtland Chronicle, LLC assumes no responsibility of error contained in any pre-printed material delivered with the paper as an insertion therein. • The Kirtland Chronicle, LLC reserves the right to reject or revise any advertisement or news item for publication. Letters to the Editor reflect the opinion of those signing them and not necessarily that of either the Kirtland Chronicle, LLC, its affiliates or its advertisers. All letters submitted are subject to editing, and none will be returned. • The opinions and representations contained in advertisements are those of the advertiser. They have not been verified by the Kirtland Chronicle, LLC, nor should they be construed to represent the position or viewpoint of this newspaper or its publisher. • Under no circumstances will any record filed in the county be suppressed at any time for anybody, except by order of court.
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KIRTLAND CHRONICLE
Friday, January 13, 2017
KIRTLAND Hornets nest Hornets Kick Off New Year with a Bang BY STEVE HARE OHIOVARSITY.COM The Kirtland boys’ basketball team opened 2017 with two straight Chagrin Valley Conference Valley Division wins. The first was a dominating 61-39 victory over Independence and the second came on a last second Jeremy Davis layup that gave the Hornets a 65-63 overtime win over visiting Cardinal on Jan. 6. “Our coach told us to wait until we get to 15 seconds and then I got the ball,” Davis said. “I just kind of drove, I don’t know, I just saw an open lane and I just took it and didn’t look back.” Davis scored a game-high 29 points but it was his last second shot that made the difference in a game the Hornets played without two starters. The Hornets fell to Chardon, 80-70, in a non-conference game on Jan. 9 that left their record at 5-3 overall and 5-1 in league play. A Valley Division title remains in play for the Hornets, who are one of four league teams with just one conference loss. That means Kirtland essentially controls its own destiny by sweeping league opponents down the stretch. With a healthy Palmer Capretta in the lineup, along with Davis and Brandon Samsa, the Hornets provide a difficult matchup for any opponent. “That three-headed monster of Brandon, Palmer and Jeremy is hard to cover,” said Kirtland coach Nick Gallo.
Girls overcome adversity Kirtland’s girls’ basketball team opened the 2016-2017 season with seven straight wins before dropping back-to-back overtime games to non-conference opponents NDCL and Perry. Even worse, starting point guard Katie McCollister suffered a season-ending injury on the final play of the loss at Perry. Freshman Lauren Snyder, who already had earned a starting role on the varsity squad, stepped in to fill McCollister’s shoes. The Hornets responded with three straight dominating wins to improve to 10-2 overall and 6-0 in league play. Kirtland has outscored its opponents, 623-356, so far this season. Success for the Hornets starts on the defensive end but a capable point guard is a must and Snyder has per formed well through her first three games at the position. “It’s hard when you lose your best friend on the court and a girl you’ve played with for the last several years,” said junior captain Sydney Snyder of McCollister’s injury. “Fortunately I have my sister stepping into the point guard position and the rest of the team is also stepping up to the challenge to keep our positive season going. The point guard position is a natural spot for Lauren. She’s played that position until this season. She has a lot of poise for being a freshman.” See Hornets Nest w Page 5
STEVE HARE/OHIOVARSITY.COM
Jeremy Davis hits a game-winning layup to lead the Hornets to an overtime win against Cardinal on Jan. 6.
Friday, January 13, 2017
KIRTLAND CHRONICLE
CHUCK BICKART
Kiwanis Club of Kirtland students of the month for January 2017 are, from left, Tommy Powers (KHS), Bella Piazza (KMS) and Brianne Selvaggio (KES).
Kirtland Kiwanis Students Of the Month for January SUBMITTED Kirtland Kiwanis sponsors the “Student of the Month,” as chosen by the principal and staff from each Kirtland school. Each student has their picture taken by Kiwanis member Chuck Bickart, receives a
certificate and a T-shirt that says “Student of the Month.” The students of the month for January 2017 are Brianne Selvaggio, from Kirtland Elementary School, Bella Piazza, Kirtland Middle School, and Tommy Powers, from Kirtland High School.
Hornets Nest from page 4 With Lauren Snyder running the point, the Hornets defeated CVC Chagrin Division opponent Beachwood, 55-40, then won backto-back league games at Hawken, 56-16, and against Fairport Harding, 63-11. The freshman credits McCollister for helping her settle in. “I’m really disappointed in Katie’s injury, she was a big factor in our games,” Lauren Snyder said. “Being the point guard comes with a lot of challenges, and with Katie still sitting on the bench I get input on what she sees out on the court. With the help of Sydney, Jenna (Sayle), and my other teammates, the pressure is taken off. From Katie’s injury Sydney had to move to the two spot where she helps me take up the ball during the press breaker. Even though there was an injury the season still continues, so we have to get stronger and work hard as a team.”
Grapplers making strides Kirtland’s young wrestling team continues to show improvement this season. The Hornets are 1-1 in dual meets and have compete in two challenging tournaments. “We’ve got a lot of young kids,” said Kirtland coach Scott Francis. “They’re down there and wrestling against kids that are better than they’ve seen before, but they’re getting better and learning stuff.”
STEVE HARE/OHIOVARSITY.COM
Freshman Lauren Snyder has stepped in at point guard for Kirtland girls’ basketball team.
The Hornets’ roster includes just three seniors, two juniors, two sophomores and six freshmen. Senior Gus Mormino already has recorded 15 wins this season with 10 pins. He finished fourth at the rugged Kenston Invitational Tournament and fifth at the South Rebel Invitational. Sophomore Konnor Duncan is second on the team with 11 wins. He finished seventh at the Perry Pin City Invitational. Senior John Miller and freshman Brandon Hepper both finished sixth at South.
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KIRTLAND CHRONICLE
Animals
that are being taken care of don’t tend to stray out to other neighbors, to other areas and cause even more problems.” Sickles distributed copies of Cleveland’s ordinance to council members. Vicki Diesner, midwest legislative director for the American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals, said she appreciated Kirtland has no breed-specific legislation. “We express our opposition to breed-specific ordinances and our support that this council has so wisely decided to be breedneutral. Breed-specific ordinances that ban ownership of dog breeds determined to be dangerous does raise serious Constitutional objections and perhaps most importantly, will fail to resolve the problem it seeks to address: public safety,” she said. Diesner said such laws fail to take into account the personalities of individual dogs, and that it is the dog owner’s responsibility to raise a socialized pet. Diesner, did, however, state objections to Kirtland’s regulations. “Persistent tethering of an animal on (its owner’s) property behind (required) barriers will only cause that animal to be more aggressive,” she said. “When you tether a dog, you are creating a more aggressive animal, so your effort to increase public safety is undermined.” Diesner said tethering for a short period of time is an animal-friendly environment, adding that includes the animal having access to water, food, shelter and toys. “That’s harmless. However, keeping a dog on a tether for the majority of the day often leads to negative behavior because tethered dogs run a high-risk of becoming, basically,
from page 1 president of Willowick Community Cats, spoke to advocate the Trap-Neuter-Return method as a way of controlling the feral cat population. He said there are many benefits to “reducing the number of cats naturally.” Fiorello urged council to work on an ordinance similar to Willowick’s, saying this would “protect the humanity of the cats” while simultaneously benefiting people. “Dispersing cats by not feeding them or banning people from feeding (them) is terribly unjust and certainly irresponsible,” Fiorello said. Dave Sickles, of Willoughby, also mentioned another city as a potential model in its treatment of both domesticated dogs and feral cats. He recommended the Kirt-land City Council look at the city of Cleveland’s tether law and expressed his appreciation of Cleveland’s finer points of animal control. “ There’s restriction on the tethering. There’s a length the tether has to be. You can’t use a choke tight collar. There’s also restrictions on when weather alerts are an issue, you can’t chain (an animal) all night. (The Cleveland ordinance) is something that (council members) should all look at,” Sickles said. “Also, the feral cat issue — making people that try to feed a colony of cats basically criminals makes the problem worse. If you have people who are taking care of their colonies, they’re getting vaccinated, then they have a history. It may take some time, but eventually the numbers (of cats) will start going down, and those cats
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stir-crazy due to the inability to release their energy and socialize with others,” she explained. “With dogs, boredom often leads to frustration, which in turn leads to aggression. An additional contributor to aggression is that, given a small space, which happens when you tether, tethered dogs are known to become irrationally protective of that area because it is essentially their whole world.” President Bob Umholz reminded Diesner that, according to Kirtland’s ordinance, dogs, even dangerous or vicious dogs may only be tethered for limited, finite amounts of time, not constantly. Diesner said tethering behind a wall will increase the safety hazards to the people who own the animal. “In addition, there is the issue of the tethering and leashing an animal while walking, that the equipment be no longer than six feet,” she said. “That is not appropriate. If an animal is tethered for a short time, that tether should be at least five times the length of the dog and no less than 10 feet. Also, a leash as short as six feet would not allow an animal to be run in the field for exercise, an activity that can actually reduce the energy and anxiety of a dog. The length of a leash of a dog that is controlled by the owner is not as important as muzzling that animal if it is out in public.” Diesner also talked about handling a feral cat population. “Kirtland is a rural area. Prohibiting the feeding of feral cats is difficult to enforce in addition to being inhumane for the region of the country that you are in, with extreme weather conditions,” she said. “The ASPCA would recommend the approach that Fort Wayne, Indiana has taken. Any person feeding or providing any level of care to free-roaming cats is required to follow the guidelines listed below with the ultimate goal of achieving a population of cats that have been spayed and neutered. Under Fort Wayne’s ordinance, any person feeding cats without adhering to those rules could result in enforcement action. The rules are required to prevent neighborhood nuisances and to protect the integrity of the program. Many of the rules look at keeping the animals in the feeding areas at a distance from high-residency areas. Actual feeding between 6 a.m. and 9 a.m. and culling that food so you’re not attracting other wildlife, you’re not creating more of a nuisance. This model would be an excellent program for Kirtland to adopt. It would balance the issue of humane treatment of the area’s feral cat population along with reducing nuisances.” Willoughby resident Lee Nesler, executive director of Lake Humane Society, also spoke, emphasizing persistent community collaboration in the success of cat population control. “Unless you have a dedicated spay-andneuter program, the cat (repopulation) is just going to continue. I’ll use a bathtub as an analogy. TNR has to happen continually because what happens is the population will grow to a point and then once your TNR has leveled out, cats are then spilling out with overflow. If you continue with TNR, that’s when your population starts to decrease.”
Friday, January 13, 2017
As for dog domestic dog treatment, Nesler said muzzle training is the way to go. “It’s one of the most progressive ways that people are teaching all of their dogs to be comfortable in a muzzle,” she said. “It’s important to do with any pet you have. Someday you may need that, to have a dog that can walk out in public and wear a muzzle and not be fighting it all the time. So instead of having the dog in a forty-foot line that’s in your yard and is getting caught in a tree, potentially choking itself, get (the dog) comfortable in a muzzle. Get it comfortable in a Gentle Leader (dog facial harness). That kind of training can be done very proactively, very positively for the animal.” Umholz asked who provides the resources for the spay-and-neuter and vaccinations. Nesler said people donate and the society itself donates, but that collaboration will continue to be key. “If we are working together, in tandem, we’re stronger. We can apply for grants,” she said, adding the humane society is interested in hiring a veterinarian for population control efforts such a spay-and-neuter and vaccination. “We (the council) are charged with the duty to protect the public health, the public welfare. If a wild animal is unsafe to be with children in the community, it would be our responsibility to make sure that the two won’t be together,” said Law Director Daniel Richards to Nesler. “We’re certainly not attracting wild animals into a residential setting where there are children. A feral cat is not domesticated. It’s not in the house, people are not taking it to the veterinarian. It has opportunity to get out and explore, get bitten by a raccoon or skunk or what have you. It has the capacity to become infected, right? Because of that, it’s necessary that there be some concern about there being close proximity in a residential area where children are … to make certain those things don’t happen. “The premise is that the cat isn’t attracted into areas where there are likely to be children. I can’t imagine anything more attractive to a child than a pussycat. And that problem of the attraction, the attractive nuisance like that, is bothersome to me, at least. This is a situation which we have to be concerned about, a matter of public health safety and welfare.” Markell resident Sterling Coleman said he has never seen a cat, but he has seen foxes and coyotes. “Feral cats are a good food source for wild animals,” he added. Glen Park Road resident Jim Davis said if humans cater to self-sufficient feral cats, the animals will repay the favor with their additional waste elimination. “I don’t dislike cats at all. (But) they’re feral cats. Feral cats don’t need people, really. They have everything they need. Cats are very adaptable. They live in the Himalayas. They live in the desert. They don’t need your help, they don’t need to be fed. They’ll take care of themselves and they can regulate their own populations. The feral cat problem is, when you feed them, they become a bigger problem. They don’t have to be helped. That’s where the problem is. You can’t feed feral cats and expect them to go anywhere else. If you quit feeding them, they’ll go away. You’re not hurting them (by not feeding them).” Because of the plethora of information and viewpoints, Kirtland City Council unanimously voted to table the issue until they consider all the input they received thoroughly. “I particularly want to thank you, you were all very polite as you expressed your concerns. It’s a highly emotional issue for a lot of people and you all conducted yourselves very civilly and we appreciate that very much,” said Umholz.
CAMPUS CHATTER Lance T. Davidson, of Kirtland High School class of 2012, graduated from Cleveland State University summa cum laude, majoring in finance.
Friday, January 13, 2017
KIRTLAND CHRONICLE
Farmpark Inaugural Ice Festival Warms Up Winter Jan. 27-28
Council from page 1 of her time and her heart to her fellow citizens in the Kirtland community.” “Parsons thoughtfully and deliberately considered the appeals presented by our citizens and … sought to apply the zoning code with fairness and compassion and concern for all those impacted by the board’s decisions,” said council President Bob Umholtz as he read the resolution. “Parsons’ service on the board of zoning appeals has enhanced … the operation of the board with the quality of life in our city. It is, therefore, the intent of this resolution to gratefully acknowledge the extraordinary service that Mrs. Parsons has provided in her many years of service to the city and our community and to recognize the valued assistance, cooperation and guidance which she willingly offered. “This council and administration recognize the sacrifices Mrs. Parsons has made in giving of her time and efforts to help make Kirtland a better community in which we can all be proud to live,” he concluded. “Thank you all so much,” Parsons said as she exchanged hugs and handshakes with council members. Mayor Doug Davidson praised her history of work in different community roles, saying the sum of her varied experiences strengthened her as an asset to Kirtland. “Thank you so much for your service. In all regards, Kiwanis, all those things go together, all your knowledge of the city, thank you so much for that,” said Davidson. Councilman Potter also praised Parsons, adding he wanted to express his gratitude to her beyond the resolution. “I moved here in 1986 with my family and my first memory of any public figure here would be Mrs. Parsons. Just the grace and dignity that she has brought to the city, not only to the library, but the board of zoning appeals and certainly at Kiwanis, all the
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Kirtland City Council President Bob Umholtz and Deloris Parsons embrace after she receives a resolution commending her for many years of service on the board of zoning appeals.
hard work she’s provided very selflessly. I can’t thank her enough. It means a lot to, certainly, me and I’m pretty sure I’m speaking for everyone else here, so thank you.” An emotionally-moved Parsons replied, “You’ll make me cry.” Councilman Kevin Eilerman inquired about the skeet shooting at the Kirtland Country Club. Mayor Doug Davidson reported the club has brought the issue to common pleas court and the City of Willoughby will fund the outside counsel that it has hired for the case. In other business, council voted to retain Umholz as board president, Councilman Rob Skrbis as president pro tempore, and Denise Roelle as clerk. Umholtz’ and Skrbis’ terms will end Oct. 30, 2017. Umholtz said the councilmen’s committee assignments will remain the same unless a councilman approaches him to express interest in a change.
One of the sayings at Lake Metroparks Farmpark during the winter months over the last couple of years is “Mother Nature and Old Man Winter are fighting again.” Northeast Ohio has seen either very high or low temperatures during the winter months. Farmers in the area need the cold of winter to help eliminate many damaging insects. If they don’t have those cold temperatures, a fruit crop will suffer due to poor bud development. As much as we enjoy the warmer days, cold weather is important to the growing cycle. In celebration of the cold, the Farmpark has partnered with Cleveland’s own and nationally known Elegant Ice Creations for the first annual Farmpark Ice Festival. Presented by Ganley Subaru East and Discount Drug Mart, the festival will kick off Jan. 27 with the unveiling of the
Farmpark-themed ice chair and an ice carving demonstration. Afterwards, visitors can enjoy crafts, hot cocoa, a s’mores bar, fire pits, music and an appearance by Anna and Elsa. The night will conclude with a large fire inside a tower of ice. Join Jan. 28 to witness some of the best ice carvers from around the country take part in a speed carving competition. Enjoy many other winter-themed activities to participate in on Saturday, including snowshoeing (weather permitting), in addition to all of the regular Farmpark daily programs. The festival will run Jan. 27 from 5-9 p.m. and Jan. 28 from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Make the Farmpark’s Ice Festival your new Northeast Ohio winter tradition. Regular Farmpark admission applies. Farmpark members and children under 2 get in free. The Farmpark is located at 8800 Euclid Chardon Road (state Route 6), one mile east of state Route 306 in Kirtland.
PARKS & RECREATION Fun Day Monday Penitentiary Glen Reservation Jan. 16, 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. Bring the family and friends for a good time, learning about nature during Fun Day Monday at Penitentiar y Glen Reservation. Stop by the Nature Center anytime between 10 a.m. and 3 p.m. Jan. 16 for free fun indoor and outdoor activities. Enjoy scavenger hunts, a campfire complete with s’mores, seasonal craft, outdoor “x-plorer” packs, hiking, hands-on exhibits, the Wildlife Center, live animals and much more. Naturalists are available to answer all of your nature-related questions and to
The Kitchen is the Heart of the Home ccording to the experts, remodeling your kitchen can make financial sense. The return on investment ranges from 91% to 98% but the real benefit is adding to the quality of life for the cook and the family. The kitchen is the heart of the home, the central gathering place, where everyone loves to be! If you’re ready for a kitchen makeover, but have the same trepidation as most homeowners, wondering “where do I start?” you’re in luck! Store with Style has everything you need, all in one place, All Wellborn kitchen and bath cabiwith customer service and atten- nets, including doors, drawers and tion to detail that has made us a ‘go face frames are hand crafted at to’ for many of your neighbors their Alabama facility. around Lake County. We have an A+ rating with the BBB and Angie’s List super service awards for 5 years running. Our certified kitchen and bath designer also holds a certification for aging in place design and as a general remodeler. We have a design plan in place that will take you through every step of the process with one point of contact and an emphasis on one stop shopping. On display in our Tyler Blvd. showroom are beautiful Wellborn Cabinets, with Cambria quartz countertops. Hundreds of door styles and finishes to choose from and best of all, both Wellborn and Cambria are proudly made in the USA. We also have a complete closet and garage cabinetry showroom. Our team will walk you through your selections from flooring, to paint, cabinets, counters, lighting, hardware, and more. We partner with many Lake County businesses to insure you have reliable suppliers in your neighborhood. If you’re already working with a contractor and they’re telling you to start shopping….no worries! We are ‘contractor’ friendly and can work together to deliver you the kitchen of your dreams. So, if you’re ready to take the first step towards your new kitchen call us first! We are the only stop you’ll need to make your dream kitchen a reality! Call us today at 440-974-8201.
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help guide you throughout the day. The event is free for all ages. Join for more Fun Day Monday activities Feb. 13 (Presidents Day) and April 17 (Spring Break).
Winter Bird Open House Penitentiary Glen Reservation Jan. 29, Noon to 4 p.m. Feeding and watching the birds in your yard is a great way to connect to nature. Enjoy an afternoon in the Nature Center learning tips to identify the winter birds that are commonly seen in our area, the basics of birdwatching and all about birdfeeders and types of bird feed The event is free for all ages.
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KIRTLAND CHRONICLE
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Friday, January 13, 2017
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