Drivers traveling down state Route 306 past West Geauga High School may notice something new and impossible to miss. An oversized banner now hangs on the exterior, celebrating two major accomplishments: West Geauga’s overall 5-Star rating and its recognition as the #2 Ranked High School (out of 764) in the state of Ohio.
The banner is more than just a display. It is a statement. It reflects the hard work of the students, the dedication of the staff and the unwavering support of the families and community. Each star symbolizes excellence and a reminder of what the district can accomplish together.
The new banner does not just mark a moment in time, it inspires the achievements still to come.
West Geauga Schools District Updates Phone Policy to Comply with State
Staff RepoRt
West Geauga Schools Board of Education updated its cell phone policy to comply with a new state requirement that bans student cell phone use during the school day beginning Jan. 1.
The mandate, included in Gov. Mike DeWine’s state budget, which he signed in June, requires school districts to adopt compliant policies by Jan. 1.
“Cell phones distract students from classroom instruction, resulting in smaller learning gains and lower test scores,” according to the
Ohio Department of Education. “Increased cell phone use has led to higher levels of depression, anxiety and other mental health disorders in youth.”
Under the new policy, West Geauga High School students may only use phones under certain conditions, said Superintendent Nancy Benincasa, adding the district will continue prohibiting elementary and middle school students from using cell phones at any point during the day.
“Previously, at West Geauga High School, we have allowed (high school) students to possess phones
but keep them silent and stored out of sight during class unless a teacher permits their use for educational purposes,” she said.
Under the revised policy, students may use cell phones only with permission from a supervising adult.
“There are exceptions allowed for students who need to use their cell phones for documented educational or medical purposes,” she added.
Cell phones also must remain on silent and stored in a locker, backpack or purse unless otherwise permitted through an individ-
ualized education program or 504 plan, the policy said.
In addition, cell phones are permitted during emergency situations, according to the district.
“Students may use school phones to contact parents/guardians during the school day depending upon the exigencies of the situation, the location of the students and the location of the (cell phone) during an active threat or emergency in accordance with the protocol outlined in the Board-adopted emergency management plan,” the policy said.
West G Hockey Turkey Bowl Sets Attendance Record
Submitted
Despite an impending Thanksgiving Day snowstorm, the 2025 West Geauga Varsity Hockey Turkey Bowl set an all-time attendance record with more than 200 people sharing donuts, coffee, cider and, most importantly, their love of hockey at beautiful Gilmour Academy Ice Arena.
Approximately 60 alumni players showed up, ranging in age from 18 to 44 years old. And many of the older alums had their children playing (some of whom were fantastic players and future West G stars!)
SUBMITTED
Keeping with tradition, our very own Linda Campbell kicked off the tight, well-played game with a beautiful rendition of the National Anthem. And the starting lines
featured members of the inaugural 1999 varsity team, coached by the team’s co-founders and original coaches, Bob Goehrke, Dick Maynard and Scott Hill.
Next year marks the 25th Silver Anniversary of the Turkey Bowl. The planning committee is already brainstorming something special! See you all next Thanksgiving morning for the 10 a.m. puck drop at Gilmour Rink!
The current Varsity team is losing a number of players to graduation. Any West G students (and surrounding school districts) who would like to play, please contact Coach, and West G alumni, Travis Wright at (330) 696-2113.
No prior skill necessary—just a desire to play for your school!
Community Meetings
Listed are upcoming public meetings and executive sessions. These meeting notices are NOT legal notices.
Chester Township: Dec. 3, 7 p.m., Zoning Commission; Dec. 8, 7 p.m., Board of Zoning Appeals; Dec. 11, 6:30 p.m., Board of Trustees; Dec. 17, 7 p.m., Zoning Commission; Dec. 24, 9 a.m., Board of Trustees. All meetings are held at the Township Hall, 12701 Chillicothe Road, unless otherwise noted.
Russell Township: Dec. 4, 2 p.m., Board of Trustees; Dec. 17, 4 p.m. – Citizens’ Park District; Dec. 18, 7 p.m., Board of Trustees. All meetings are held in the new Community Room at 8501 Kinsman Road, unless otherwise noted.
West Geauga BOE: Dec. 15, 6 p.m., regular meeting. All meetings are held at the BOE Community Room, 8615 Cedar Road, unless otherwise noted.
West Geauga High School celebrates its top state ranking with an oversized banner hanging on the exterior of the building.
Members of the Inaugural 1999 Varsity team: From left, Coach Scott Hill, Ryan Marshall, Davin Hill, Ryan Fox, Brian Baldacci, Coach Dick Maynard, Gabe Wright, Brendan Maynard and Coach Bob Goehrke
Master Gardener Info Session
Dec. 3, 7-8 p.m.
Those interested in learning more about the OSU Lake County Master Gardeners are invited to attend an informational session in
Town Crier
the Garfield Room at the Mentor Public Library Main Branch.
The session will feature a PowerPoint presentation by an OSU educator outlining the Master Gardener Volunteer program and
opportunities within the educational organization. Master Gardener Volunteers and the OSU educator will also be available to answer questions. Registration is available at mentorpl.org, by calling 440-255-8811 or in person at 8215 Mentor Ave.
Kiwanis Christmas Tree Sales
The West Geauga Kiwanis Club’s annual Christmas Tree fundraiser continues through Dec. 20 in the Drug Mart parking lot. Trees are available weekdays from 4-8 p.m. and weekends from 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. The final day of sales is Dec. 20, with hours from 9 a.m. to noon.
TOT Fundraiser
Teaching Our Traditions (TOT), a new local organization in Chester Township, conducts programs to inspire children to explore their imagination while equipping them with valuable life skills in areas such as hunting, fishing, conservation, culinary arts, trade fundamentals and business shadowing opportunities.
All of the proceeds from the bourbon raffle will support its programs.
Visit www.totkids.org/bourbon-raffle for information about the raffle. A Facebook live drawing is scheduled for Dec. 14.
Young of Heart
Dec. 5, 11 a.m.
Geauga Young of Heart’s annual Christmas Party for members only will be held at Manakiki Country Club in Willoughby Hills. The next meeting is Jan. 2.
The group will see a movie at the Aurora Atlas Movie Theater at 11 a.m. on Dec. 10. A bus trip is planned to Playhouse Square State Theater on Dec.12 to see “How the Grinch Stole Christmas!” For reservations, call Kimber at 440-668-3293.
Breakfast with Santa Dec. 6, 8:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m.
Geauga West Rotary Club is hosting its 33rd annual Breakfast with Santa at the West Geauga High School cafeteria. The all-youcan-eat pancake and sausage breakfast is $8 per person and free for children 1 year and younger. Meet Rudolph and Santa Claus. Take photos with Santa and enjoy festive music and games. Visit GeaugWestRotary.org for information.
FGP Explorers Series
Dec. 6, 10 a.m. to noon
Join Foundation for Geauga Parks for a walk in the winter woods of Whitlam Woods Park, 12500 Pearl Road in Chardon. For information or to register, visit foundationforgeaugaparks.org or call 440-564-1048.
Death Café
Dec. 6, 11 a.m.
Join for tea, cake and an open and safe conversation about death and dying at Unity Church of Chesterland, 7887 Chalet Drive in Chester Township. It is not a grief support group, and there is no agenda or cost. For more information, call 440-729-7027 or visit unityofchesterland.com.
See Town Crier • Page 3
Historical Village Welcomes
Mrs. Claus Dec. 7
The Chesterland Historical Village invites you and your family to visit Mrs. Claus and her elves on Sunday, Dec. 7, from 1-4 p.m., for an afternoon of story time, make-itand-take-it craft, and children writing letters to Santa that Mrs. Claus will deliver to him.
There also will be music, hot chocolate and cookies and so much more.
Town Crier from page 2
Holiday Open House
Dec. 7, 4-7 p.m.
The Geauga Democratic Party will hold a holiday open house at party headquarters, 12420 Kinsman Road in Newbury Township. Community members are invited to drop in to enjoy food and fellowship. Refreshments and light bites will be provided. Guests are asked to bring a dessert to share.
Bloodmobile
The American Red Cross asks people to schedule time to give blood or platelets to keep the blood supply stable ahead of the busy holiday season. Visit RedCrossBlood.org or call 1-800-733-2767 to make an appointment.
• Dec. 9, St. Mark’s Lutheran Church, 11900 Chillicothe Road, Chester Township, 12-5 p.m.
The Geauga County Public Employee Retirees Chapter 86 will meet at St. Mary Banquet Hall, Chardon. Lunch is at 11:30 a.m. Chardon High School’s Free Harmony choir will be performing. For reservations, call 440-479-1952 by Dec. 5.
CPC Crafters
Dec. 11, 6:30-8:30 p.m.
Join CPC Crafters for a craft night making festive pinecone trees at Christ Presbyterian Church, 12419 Chillicothe Rd. in Chester Township.
Operation Santa Sleigh
Dec. 13, 10:45 a.m. to 2 p.m.
The Chester Township Police Department will host its annual Operation Santa Sleigh at
Chesterland Historical Village
All this fun takes place in the restored 1842 Tanner House. Just look for the white picket fence. There is no charge.
The village is located on the corner of Caves and Mayfield roads and the holiday gift shoppe will be open for some unique shopping.
West Geauga Middle School, 8611 Cedar Road. The West Geauga Marching Band will parade Santa around the school, followed by a Jungle Terry show from 11 a.m. to noon and a performance by the West Geauga Choir at noon.
New, unwrapped toys are requested for donation. No toy guns, please. All donations will remain in Geauga County.
Winter Remembrance
Dec. 13, 12-2 p.m.
Join for a special holiday remembrance event at Gattozzi & Son Funeral Home, 12524 Chillicothe Road, Chester Township. Light refreshments will be served at noon, followed by the service at 1 p.m.
RSVP by Dec. 5 by calling 440-729-1906.
Joy to the World Concert
Dec. 18, 7 p.m.
Snowbelt Symphony Orchestra presents “Joy to the World” featuring vocalist Sarah Klein and conductor Greg Hillis at Lake Catholic High School. Tickets are $25 for adults and $10 for students. Visit snowbeltmusical. org or call 440-296-9610.
Cassandra C. Shofar, News Editor Jamie A. Ward, Sports Editor Ann Wishart, Staff Reporter Allison Wilson, Staff Reporter Emma MacNiven, Staff Reporter Pamela J. Molnar, Production Supervisor
Jeffrey B. Karlovec, Publisher John D. Karlovec, Editor Deadlines
Clay Karlovec, Sales Representative
Clinton Sestak, Sales Representative
Amber Ballard, Sales Representative
Regina Swinerton, Classifieds
Karen S. Kaplan, Graphic Design
Emma McGuire, Paginator
• 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 Friday prior to the Wednesday publication date for consideration for that edition.
• Email all editorial submissions to editor@karlovecmedia.com.
• The space reservation deadline for paid advertisements in that week’s Chesterland News is 4 p.m. on the Thursday prior to publication. Late ads may be accepted at the discretion of management.
• Email advertising requests and questions to ads@karlovecmedia.com.
Circulation
• The Chesterland News is distributed for free to homes and businesses in Chester Township. It is mailed through the U.S. Postal Service.
• Copies are also available at rack locations within Chester township.
• Produced by the Chesterland News, 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 Chesterland News, LLC assumes no responsibility of error contained in any pre-printed material delivered with the paper as an insertion therein.
• The Chesterland News, 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 Chesterland News, 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 Chesterland News, 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.
Food Drive to Assist Geauga Families
The Geauga Democratic Party is collecting food and household items to support local families. Donations may be dropped off at party headquarters, 12420 Kinsman Road in Newbury Township, on Tuesdays from 5:30–8 p.m. and Saturdays from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. through Dec. 16.
Requested items include canned and
boxed goods, instant or boxed milk, basic pantry staples, cleaning and laundry supplies, hygiene products and baby items such as diapers and formula. Donors are asked to check expiration dates. Monetary contributions are also welcome to help food banks purchase items most in need. All collected items will be distributed to local food banks.
Home Delivered Holiday Meals
The Geauga County Department on Aging and local Christmas sponsors Ohman Family Living and the Chardon VFW will offer a free traditional holiday meal to any Geauga Coun-
Meal delivery or congregate meals on Christmas Day. Instead, holiday meals are available by preorder only. Christmas Day meal requests are due by Dec. 18.
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West Geauga High School students (l to r) front row: Amber Goff, Guinevere Bo rawski, Gabriella Black; and back row: Miles Borawski and Hayden Makuch recently performed in the OMEA District VII Honors Choir. The elite ensembles included singers from 31 schools across the Cleveland area and were led by collegiate and professional guest conductors. The three-day experience concluded with a full concert showcase.
Obituaries
Ruth Faye Morgan
Ruth Faye Morgan, 83, passed away on Nov. 24, 2025, surrounded by her loving family.
Born on Jan. 13, 1942, in Cleveland, Ohio, Faye’s unwavering faith guided her life devoted to the care of her family.
Faye was a resident of Chester Township, Ohio, for 60 years. She was a longtime parishioner at St. Anselm’s Church, where she was a member of Christ Child Society and with whom she enjoyed many guided tours to holy sites in Europe. In recent years, she found her spiritual home at Divine Word Catholic Church in Kirtland.
After graduating from Willoughby South
High School in 1960, she became an early childhood educator. Her work touched the lives of many children, most notably as Head Teacher at Lake Geauga United Head Start.
After 20 years, she began an entire second career at a sign and graphics company she and her husband started. There she tirelessly took on many responsibilities, from managing the office to creating signs and hanging holiday decorations at Tower City. She fully retired only two years ago.
Faye is survived by her husband of 61 years, Robert; her daughters, Faye-Marie Brownfield (Andrew), Amy Caldwell (Bryan) and Lisa Cencula (Steven); her grandchildren, Harry, Bradley, Haley, Daisy and Jack; her sister Peggy Varley; and many nieces.
She was predeceased by her sister Claudia Callow.
Geauga Park District
For more information and registration, contact the park district at 440-286-9516 or visit www.geaugaparkdistrict.org
Hands-On Birding
Now through April, head out to the park district’s Bird in the Hand feeding station at The West Woods in Russell Township to try to hand feeding chickadees and other birds.
Stop first at The West Woods Nature Center to collect a packet of black oil sunflower seed from 10 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Then, follow the Trout Lily Trail and follow the signage.
To get started, cover the feeder with the bucket, place a few seeds in hand, hold it out flat, stand still and wait for birds to arrive. They tend to come in waves, so be patient. Hand feeding works best with just one or two people or a small group of three or four.
When finished, remove the bucket from the feeder, place any unused seed into the feeder and place the empty seed packet in the marked receptacle.
Make it a Nature-Filled Sunday
Geauga Park District will offer a full afternoon of nature experiences on Dec. 14, featuring a guided hike, a virtual talk and a craft program.
From 1-3:30 p.m., Naturalist Andy Avram will lead Ansel’s Cave Hike: History Written in Rock at The West Woods. This rare opportunity includes access to a restricted area of Ansel’s Cave. The three-mile hike includes hilly terrain and a stream crossing; sturdy footwear and weather-appropriate clothing are advised. No registration is required.
A virtual program, Research in Our Parks: Survey Results, will follow from 2:30-3:30 p.m. Naturalist Linda Gilbert will share highlights from butterfly, dragonfly and bird surveys conducted this past spring through fall. Registration is required to receive the Zoom link.
Then, from 4-6 p.m., adults with intermediate weaving skills may create a Paracord Holiday Ornament at The West Woods Nature Center. Naturalist Trevor Wearstler will guide participants to craft a paracord wreath. Registration and a materials fee of $10 for county residents are required.
Classifieds
AUTOS & PARTS
For Parts Only: 2003 Chevy Trail Blazer and 2000 Ford Windstar van. Many new parts on both vehicles. Any reasonable offer accepted. Call Dan 440-342-8592.
FOR RENT
Burton: Large 1 BR apt with den, laundry room, large garage, AC, private patio. No pets. $1,050. Call 440221-0649.
Chagrin Falls: 1BR with garage, heat, water, pool. In a nice area. $1,050/mo. Available Feb. 1. 234-3803491.
EVENTS
Join Us for Cookies with Santa! Saturday, 12/6, 2-4pm. American Legion Post 459, 14052 Goodwin St., Burton. Reserve your spot at btoburton.org. or call 440-8348621x5.
FOR SALE
Vintage Baby Buggy: $65. 440-487-2955.
Sawdust! We are a woodworking shop in Willoughby offering sawdust byproduct often used in animal bedding. You must have a dump truck or trailer to empty the overhead hopper. We are looking to establish a longterm pickup contract. Approximate volume is 10 yards per week, varying + or - 5 yards based on production. Cost is $100 per month. Please call 440-946-1718 with inquiries.
Stained Glass Sheets, HO Train items, large granite counter-top pieces, copper kettles, fresh/salt water aquariums, old clocks, kerosene lamps. Inquire. 440338-3563. Russell.
Family Burial Plot for sale. All Souls Cemetery. Serene location in prime section. Section 16. 216-440-8743. Hanging ceiling lights: 30” diameter $15, brass and copper with glass chimneys 28”, $50. Both very good condition. Call/text for pics 440-635-7183. John Deere 350B Trackloader $8,000. Ford 8N Tractor $1,500. Text 330-442-0085 for more info. Please leave message if calling.
Used 38’x50’ blue tarp, $40. 440-548-5801 or 216387-8994.
HELP WANTED
Part-time Farm Help Needed: Sat/Sun/Wed 8:30am11:30am. Clean and Bed 4 horse stalls. Refill hay nets. Turn out. Misc. other odd farm duties. Must pass background check. No smoking. 440-256-7297.
Part-time Cleaner wanted at St. Anselm School in Chesterland. 4:00pm-9:00pm Monday-Friday. $18 an hour. Must be 18+ and felony free. Call Sal Lazzano: 440897-8931.
PETS & ANIMALS
Gray 6 month old tuxedo cat needs indoor home. Neutered, vaxxed, very sweet but shy. Great with other cats. Call Rebecca 440-321-2485.
For Sale: 6-foot long 125-gallon aquarium w/glass lids, full 3-door cabinet; and 4-foot 32-gallon aquarium. All for $250. 440-729-0070.
THANK YOU Bainbridge for shutting down the Smoke Shop that was selling marijuana etc to minors! You’re preventing future addictions.
REAL ESTATE
Homes & Land Wanted: any condition or situation! Fast, friendly, local. Serving Geauga and surrounding counties. Text or call Wayne at 330-269-9595.
Local Investor will pay fair cash price for homes or land in any condition. Fast closing. Call or text 440-3460161 today.
SERVICES
AM Rides LLC: Reliable transportation for Amish crew hauling, cleaning crews, hunting trips, auctions, and towing. Safe, insured and on time. Airport trips also available. Call Craig: 330-431-8282. Will do in-home elder care, housework and laundry. Certified with references. 440-313-1804.
WANTED TO BUY
Old fishing tackle wanted: fishing lures (wood or plastic), mouse to bear traps, wooden duck decoys. Call Lee 440-313-8331.
Wanted: Old Maytag Wringer Washer. Will pay cash. 440-693-4520.
Following is a list of area real estate transfers for the week ending Nov. 21 and period Nov. 24-26, 2025, as a public service by the Geauga County Auditor’s Office. Transfers may involve the sale of land only.
CHESTER TOWNSHIP
Dane J. Lipovec and Laura A. Taylor, Peach Tree Drive, to Dane J. and Rachel N. Lipovec, $25,000. (3.93 acres)
James E. Stricker Jr. and Megan D. Novinic, 7063 Old Mill Road, to Dominic Corsillo, $530,000. (1.69 acres)
John Clouser, 7590 Pelham Drive, to John Clouser and Robin E. Shaw, $172,200. (5.00 acres)
Jeffrey R. Bowser (trustee), 8414 Cranwood Drive, to Joseph and Miranda Rogers, $375,000. (1.06 acres)
Peter C. Sanelli Jr., 9610 Wilson Mills Road, to Jackie and John Waugh, $485,000. (5.79 acres)
Marilyn A. Sukis, 13495 Chillicothe Road, to Nick Keglovic and Michelle L. Nicastro, $373,000. (1.04 acres)
Daniel P. and Elizabeth A. Osicki, 13180 Spring Blossom Trail, to Shannon and David Swiatkowski, $448,100. (1.27 acres)
Mark A. Morek (trustee), 11939 Storybook Lane, to Steven Morek and Kathleen Ellen Golden, $360,000. (1.52 acres)
Scott F. Whitney, 8342 Sharp Lane, to
Steven Hennessy, $162,500. (0.56 acres)
Eunice Rose Miller, 8226 Cedar Road, to Clearvu LLC, $250,500. (1.00 acres)
Leonard Kolada (trustee), 7655 Sherman Road, to Travis C. Edmonds, $235,000. (3.16 acres)
RUSSELL TOWNSHIP
Sharon M. Stevens, 15915 Laurel Road, to Mitchell Babej, $375,000. (0.45 acres)
Glenda S. Brown (trustee), 9636 Pekin Road, to Marc D. and Lana P. Stefanac, $400,000. (7.78 acres)
Town Square Holdings LLC, 8015 Fairmount Road, to Kevin and Lisa Molloy, $625,000. (7.00 acres)
James Francis and Valentine Trocme, 14797 Chillicothe Road, to Nicholas and Rebecca Oblak, $955,000. (5.00 acres)
Bruce Bechhold (trustee), 14689 Clydesdale Trail, to Brad J. Davison and Susie T. Venettacci Davison, $581,000. (3.02 acres)
Cory Hans Epprecht, 15300 Fedeli Lane, to Cory Fischer and Allison Fisher, $367,400. (6.25 acres)
Scott R. Deperro, Stump Hollow Lane (s/l 8), to Paula M. Metz, $511,900. (5.89 acres)
Robert D. Demuch and Erica Mankey Demuch, 15745 Hemlock Road, to Megan and Daniel Ricci, $439,900. (0.81 acres)
