Chester Township Fire Chief Retires
Shaw Looks Forward To Pursuing
Photography Hobby
by emma macNiveN macNiveN@karlovecmedia
com
After four decades of always preparing for the worst, Chester Township Fire Chief Bill Shaw can’t wait to look for — and capture — the positive in his retirement.
Shaw
While this won’t be Shaw’s first taste of re tirement, he hopes it will be a bet ter experience than the last one.
Shaw previously retired as fire chief in Solon in March of 2020, just as the COVID-19 pandemic hit.
“We were still in the midst of COVID and at that time, retirement
See Shaw • Page 5
Lindsey Elementary Fifth-Grader Has Geauga County’s #1 Dog
Staff report
Lindsey Elementary School fifth-grader Avery Ruthenberg — and her 2-year-old Rhodesian Ridgeback, Roxy — is the winner of the Geauga County Auditor’s Office’s 2025 #1 Dog Essay contest.
Geauga County Auditor Charles Walder presented Avery with the #1 Dog tag and certificate. Avery also received several gifts and Walder personally donated $250 to her teacher for a class project.
The auditor’s office received numerous essays — the #1 Dog is determined by a short essay written by any fourth- or fifth-grader in Geauga County — and the judging was not easy, according to a Feb. 10 press release, but Avery’s essay conveyed her true loyalty and love for Roxy.
Avery said she knew Roxy was the #1 dog for several reasons.
“First, she is so cute and makes people feel better when they are sad. Roxy makes everybody smile
because she is so pretty and what she does is super cute,” Avery wrote in her essay. “Also, she can tell when you are sad because she will come up to you and give you a kiss or lay her head on you. Sometimes she even brings one of her toys over.”
Second, Roxy helped Avery’s family make friends with one of their neighbors.
“One day we were walking Roxy and there was a puppy out
See Dog • Page 3
West Geauga Middle, High Schools Holds STEM Fair
Submitted
Students at West Geauga middle and high schools participated in the annual STEM Fair (Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics) sponsored by the West Geauga Kiwanis. The challenge consisted of Junk Box Wars where high school teams were given a box of random materials and a set timeframe to build a mechanism to carry out a specific function. Other activities included individual project research displays, a math competition, and the middle school “How Do I Fare” challenge puzzles. Winners are:
High School Individual Projects: Robert Vash, first; Myca Mykhaela and Matilda Tumada, second; and Tristan Morgan, third.
Middle School Individual Projects: Michael Yeager, first; Adleigh Vodika, second; Sam Geraci, third. Elementary school winner, Paul Wright.
High School Math Competition: Paul Barras
Middle School Math Competition: Kaz Southard
How Do I Fare?: Charlie Allin and Robert Meyer, first; Lola Franceschini and Savannah Sinkovec, second; and Lincoln Shirey and Kaz Southard, third.
Junk Box Wars: Capri Burch, Gabriella Ohlsen and Isla Yellen, first; Hayden Makuch, Connor Northup and JJ Rubinski, second; Tristan Morgan, Anderson Osolin and Mason Starr, third; and Best Design – Henry Duxbury, Joseph Kreuz and Darren Prince-Wright.
Kindergarten Registration
West Geauga began 202526 school year registration for kindergarten and new students on Feb. 20. Registration is completed online. Visit www.westg. org for information.
Obituaries page 6
Classifieds page 7
Food Pantry Open
Feb. 28, 10 a.m. to noon
The food pantry at the Chester Christian Center church is open to anyone in the community in need of food. One does not need to be a member of the church to attend.
The church is located at 11815 Chillicothe Road in Chester Township.
Free Community Dinner
Feb. 28, 5-6:30 p.m.
Mayfield United Methodist Church is hosting dinner at the church located at 7747 Mayfield Road in Chester Township. Carryout is available.
FGP Explorers Series
March 1, 10 a.m. to noon
Join Foundation for Geauga Parks to “Sneak a Peek” at Tupelo Pond, Big Creek Park, 9373 Ravenna Road in Chardon. For information or to register, visit foundationforgeaugaparks.org or call 440-564-1048.
Maple
Driving Tour
March 1, 2, 8 and 9, 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.
Maple Producers of Northeast Ohio
Town Crier
is hosting the 2025 “How Sweet It Is” self-guided Maple Tour. Maple syrup producers across northeast Ohio will open their sugarhouses to visitors to learn about their operations and see how maple syrup and maple products are made. For more information, including a complete list of participating producers and a map of locations, visit mpneoh.com.
Meet Us In The Garden
March 1, 10 a.m.
The OSU Lake County Master Gardener Volunteers host their first Meet Us in the Garden talk of 2025, “Identifying Alternatives to Using Peat,” at the Mentor Public Library, 8215 Mentor Ave.
The session is free, but registration is required. Visit mentorpl.org or call 440-2558811.
Bloodmobile
The American Red Cross encourages donors to give blood or platelets to help protect the blood supply. Make a donation appointment by visiting RedCrossBlood.org or call 1-800-733-2767.
Geauga Park District
For more information and registration, contact the park district at 440-286-9516 or visit www.geaugaparkdistrict.org.
Meet the Artists
March 1, 1-3 p.m.
Journey through a diverse collection of images portraying details big and small, all celebrating the colors and life present on Earth at the West Woods Nature Center in Russell Township. In the display, “Vivid Plant,” artists Deb Berkebile and Brittany Paynter have expressed their visions through textiles, pottery, paint and watercolor.
How Sweet It Is!
The park district’s annual Sap’s-a-Risin’ celebration returns to Swine Creek Reservation in Middlefield.
Festivities on March 2 and March 9,
both from noon to 4 p.m. – include sap-gathering in the sugarbush with a horse-drawn sap sled, sugar house tours with sample tastes of fresh syrup, and historical stations with costumed interpreters displaying and demonstrating maple sugaring methods from prehistoric to modern day. Plus, visit Swine Creek Lodge to warm up with free maple treats and live music featuring Mr. Haney String Band on March 2 and The Real Deal String Band on March 9. Maple syrup produced right on-site will also be available for sale while supplies last.
Swine Creek Reservation is a featured stop on two drive-it-yourself tours on March 2 and 9: the Ohio Maple Producers’ Maple Madness Tour and the more local Northeast Ohio Maple Tour. Tour maps with complete lists of participating sugar houses are available at ohiomaple.org and mpneoh. com.
March 3, St. Mark’s Lutheran Church, 11900 Chillicothe Road, Chester Township, 12-5 p.m. March 17, Geauga West Library, 13455 Chillicothe Road, Chester Township, 12-6 p.m.
Have A Heart Spay/Neuter
Valley Save-A-Pet will open its 2025 Have A Heart low cost spay/neuter program on March 3. The program offers cat and dog sterilizations at a discounted rate to pet owners.
Call 440-232-2287 any Monday and Wednesday from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. for information and to apply for a spay/neuter certificate. Calls will also be answered on the first Saturday of the month beginning in April. Feral cat caregivers are also encouraged to call.
To learn more about the organization’s programs and events, visit www.valleysaveapet.org.
Career Exploration Open House
March 4, 5-7 p.m.
High school and college graduates, high school students and job seekers are invited to a free Career Exploration Open House at KSU Geauga, 14111 Claridon-Troy Road in Burton. Sponsored by OhioMeansJobs Geauga County, Geauga Growth Partnership and Kent State University-Geauga, the event will provide valuable opportunities for attendees to connect with potential employers and explore career pathways.
No registration is required. Prizes will be given to all attendees. Call Maggie Carpenter at 440-564-1060 with questions or to register.
West Geauga Kiwanis Meetings
Tuesdays, 6:45 p.m.
West Geauga Kiwanis meets every Tuesday at the Chesterland Baptist Church, 12670 Chillicothe Road. Join for a free dinner and learn how Kiwanis serves local students and the community. Learn more at wgkiwanis. org.
CVWC New Member Luncheon
March 5, 12-2 p.m.
The Chagrin Valley Woman’s Club is hosting a new members luncheon at Welshfield Inn, 14001 Main Market Road, Burton. Reservations are a must. RSVP to Carole at 440729-4722. The public is welcome.
Kindness Sewing Circle
March 7, 10:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m.
NPower Services hosts a Kindness Sewing Circle at Celebration Lutheran Church, 10621 Auburn Road in Chardon. The monthly gathering is open to people of all abilities and provides a creative space for participants to craft fabric projects that benefit others in need.
In collaboration with Sew4Service and Celebration Lutheran, the free event will take place on the first Friday of each month through May 2.
Anyone interested in participating may email Anne Marie Wolfe at AnneMarie@NPowerServices.com or register online at www.npowerservices.com.
Young of Heart
March 7, 11:30 a.m.
Geauga Young of Heart will meet at St. Anselm Church in Chester Township. Bring a brown bag lunch. Snacks and beverages are provided.
Dan Karl will entertain the group with his keyboard, guitar and vocals.
A trip has been planned to the Tulip Festival in Holland, Mich., on May 6-8. Call Kimber at 440-688-3293 or Kit at 216-543-4442 for availability.
Polka Dance
March 8, 1-5 p.m.
Open to the public, Val’s Polka Dances and American Legion Post 432 are having a polka dance at 2 Cherry St. in Sharon Pa. There will be music by the Bob Zolka Band and ethnic foods from Catering by Carol. For more information, call 330-318-3004.
Genealogical Society Meets
March 11, 7 p.m.
Susan Cannavino will present "Dorothy Fuldheim: Cleveland Radio Pioneer and Personality" via Zoom at the next meeting of the Geauga County Genealogical Society. The program will begin after the short meeting. Registration is required; visit www. gcgsoh.org
DTJ Nut Rolls
DTJ Taborville is selling apricot, nut and poppy seed rolls. Orders must be received by March 13. Call 440-543-8494.
CWC Luncheon and Program
March 19, 12-1:30 p.m.
Join Chagrin Valley Christian Women’s Connection for a luncheon at the Chagrin Valley Athletic Club, 17260 Snyder Road in Bainbridge Township. The program features travel tips from local expert Kathy Shimer, of Destination Geauga. Stonecroft Ministry inspirational speaker Nancy Williams will share, “You are Priceless and Can Live Above Any Circumstances.” RSVP by March 12; call 440-213-1205 or email cwcchagrin@gmail. com for information.
Police Blotter
The following is a sampling of the calls handled by the Chester Township Police Department Feb. 7-17, 2025.
ANIMAL PROBLEM
Feb. 8
3:16 p.m., Caves Road. NE corner just before the gas station. There is a goat that escaped the fence. Small goat, possibly a baby goat. Caller is worried a car would hit it if it made its way into the road. Goat returned to pen on own.
CITIZEN ASSIST
Feb. 13
FRAUD
Feb. 15
2:29 p.m., Laurel Road. Caller advised his SSN was obtained and bank accounts are being opened in his name.
6:11 p.m., Opalocka Drive. Male arrived on station to file a report that while he was away from the residence today his soonto-be ex-wife packed up her clothes and stole their pets.
DISORDERLY
Feb. 13
11:55 a.m., Mayfield Road. Chesterland Internal Medicine, male is refusing to leave and is recording employees. No weapons. No one else in the lobby; he is at the lobby window arguing with employees. See supplement.
INJURED ANIMAL
Feb. 8
7:58 p.m., County Line Road. Caller advised their service dog ran away. Called back advising his wife found his service dog in some kind of distress with a wire around its neck. Officers dispatched for service dog caught in a wire. Officers were able to locate the dog and free it from the wire. Dog was taken back home with its owners. Dog was not injured.
ROAD RAGE
Feb. 7
10:50 a.m., Opalocka Drive. Road rage in parking lot of CTPD. Other male is sitting in the parking lot across the street. Small red Chevy pickup. CTPD arrived on scene prior to obtaining contact info for the male. Caller advised the male in the red pickup threatened to kill him. Incident started in Lake County and the red truck subject followed the caller to CTPD’s parking lot.
Community Meetings
Listed are public meetings and executive sessions for the month of March, unless otherwise noted. These meeting notices are NOT legal notices.
Chester Township: March 6, 7 a.m. –Board of Trustees, special meeting for 2025 permanent appropriations and five-year projection and executive session for purposes of executive compensation, 6:30 p.m. – Board of Trustees, regular meeting, with joint meeting with zoning commission at 7 p.m.; March 10, 7 p.m., Board of Zoning Appeals; March 19, 7 p.m., Zoning Commission; March 20, 6:30 p.m., Board of Trustees. All meetings
Dog
from page 1
and Roxy loved playing with him. His name was Roco. Then they started taking walks and seeing us outside so they started letting Roxy and Roco play,” Avery wrote.
“My mom and dad became friends with their owners and I became friends with their kids. Now every time we see them Roxy gets so excited, so do I. The reason I decided to write about it is because without the help of Roxy, we probably would not have been
are held at the Township Hall, 12701 Chillicothe Road, unless otherwise noted.
Russell Township: March 3, 7 p.m., Board of Zoning Appeals; March 6, 2 p.m., Board of Trustees; March 19, 4 p.m., Citizens’ Park District; March 20, 7 p.m., Board of Trustees; March 26, 7 p.m., Zoning Commission. All meetings are held at Russell Town Hall, 14890 Chillicothe Road, unless otherwise noted.
West Geauga BOE: March 10, 7 p.m., regular meeting. All meetings are held at the BOE Community Room, 8615 Cedar Road, unless otherwise noted.
friends with them for a while, maybe even never.”
Roxy also has many different personalities.
“For example, one second she could be crazy, then 10 seconds later she stops and lays down,” Avery said. “The reason I love this about her is because she is not always crazy or annoying or lazy. It’s more like having more than one dog I love so much.”
Finally, Roxy has endured many medical problems and surgeries, including urinary tract infections and being spayed. To learn more about the #1 Dog Contest, visit the Geauga County Auditor’s Office website.
8389 Mayfield Road, Suite B5
Chesterland, Ohio 44026
Phone
FAX 440-729-8240 ads@karlovecmedia.com editor@karlovecmedia.com
Cassandra C. Shofar, News Editor Jamie A. Ward, Sports Editor Ann Wishart, Staff Reporter Allison Wilson, Staff Reporter Emma MacNiven, Staff Reporter
Jeffrey B. Karlovec, Publisher John D. Karlovec, Editor Deadlines
Clay Karlovec, Sales Representative
Clinton Sestak, Sales Representative Regina Swinerton, Classifieds
Pamela J. Molnar, Production Supervisor 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.
Help Support the Chesterland News and Local Journalism
The Chesterland News and newspaper journalism are critically important and essential in protecting the vibrant community in which we live.
The Chesterland News stitches the communities we serve together. From news to in-depth articles on topics that deeply affect the community, the Chesterland News strives to bring you complete coverage.
The cost of publishing this newspaper — editorial, printing, mailing and other production costs — is accomplished primarily through the support of generous advertisers. These advertisers are community leaders who understand the value of a stronglocal newspaper. We appreciate each and every one of them.
To help us continue to invest in the community, we invite readers to show their support through a voluntary newspaper
subscription. If you value strong community journalism, please consider helping us with a voluntary subscription. The amount is entirely up to you. Simply complete the subscription form in this edition or call 440729-7667 ext. 500.
For any donation of $45 or more, we’ll even toss in a free gift in appreciation:
1. FREE one-year online-only subscription to the Geauga County Maple Leaf, a six-time winner of Ohio Newspaper of theYear, OR
2. Five FREE 25-word classified ads over the next year.
As always, we greatly appreciate the support you give us, whether it’s financially or simply by continuing to be a loyal reader of the Chesterland News.
Jeff and John Karlovec
Academic Challenge to Compete on TV
SUBMITTED
The West Geauga High School Academic Challenge team competes on WEWS Channel 5 against Vermilion and Orange high schools on March 22 at 11:30 a.m. Directly after the show airs, it can be seen on YouTube and ROKU. From left, standing, are team adviser, Mrs. O’Janpa with alternates Tristan Morgan, Matilda Tumada and Morgan Savage, student assistant Eve Carty and Superintendent Richard Markwardt; and team competitors (l to r, seated) Hayden Makuch, Parker Pacifico and Mason Towey.
Abundant Life Ministry
Saturdays in March, 7 a.m. to noon
Enjoy all-you-can-eat buttermilk pancake breakfasts with real maple syrup at Abundant Life Ministry Center, 13724 Carlton St. in Burton. There will be three varieties of pancakes along with sausage for $10. Check out the book sale with elementary library books and desks.
American Legion Pancakes
Sundays, 9 a.m. to 1 p.m.
American Legion Post 459 is serving its annual all-you-can-eat pancake and sausage breakfasts every Sunday through April 6 at the post located at 14052 Goodwin St. in Burton.
Bainbridge Civic Club
March 2, 9 and 16, 8 a.m. to 1 p.m.
The Bainbridge Civic Club hosts its annual all-you-can-eat pancake breakfasts in the Kenston High School cafeteria, 9500 Bainbridge Road in Bainbridge Township.
For more information, visit TheCivicClub.org.
Berkshire Athletic Boosters
Sundays in March, 8 a.m. to 1 p.m.
Berkshire Athletic Boosters are hosting all-you-can-eat pancake breakfasts in the Berkshire High School cafeteria, 14155 Claridon Troy Road in Burton.
Burton Fire Station
Sundays in March, 9 a.m. to 1 p.m.
Burton Fire Station will serve all-you-caneat pancake and sausage breakfasts at the station located at 13828 Spring St. in Burton. call 440-834-4416 for information.
Chardon VFW
Pancake Breakfasts
Sundays, 8 a.m. to noon
Chardon VFW Post 6519 will be serving its annual pancake breakfasts every Sunday, Feb. 2 through March 30, at the post located at 752 Water St. in Chardon. Breakfast features three flavors of pancakes, French toast, eggs made to order, home fries, sausage,
bacon, ham and toast. Call 440-285-3699 for takeout orders.
Gates Mills Community Club
March 2, 8:30 a.m. to 1 p.m.
Gates Mills Community Club is hosting its second annual all-you-can-eat pancake breakfast at the Community House, 1460 Chagrin River Road in Gates Mills. All proceeds support scholarships and civic projects. Questions? Email GMCC44040@gmail.com.
Geauga Historical Society
Sundays in March, 9 a.m. to 2 p.m.
The Geauga County Historical Society is hosting all-you-can-eat pancake breakfasts at the Century Village Museum, 14653 East Park St. in Burton.
For more information, call 440-834-1492.
Huntsburg
CC
March 1 and 8, 8:30 a.m. to noon
Huntsburg Congregational Church is hosting its all-you-can-eat buttermilk and blueberry pancake breakfasts at the church located at 12435 Madison Road, Huntsburg Township. There will be 50/50 and basket raffles. Carryout is available. For information, call 234-600-9582.
Parkman Chamber Pancakes
March 9, 16, 23 and 30, 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. Parkman Chamber of Commerce hosts its annual pancake and sausage patties breakfasts at Parkman Community House, 16295 Main Market Road. Eat-in or drive-through options are available.
WG Kiwanis Pancake Breakfasts
March 2, 9, 16 and 23, 8 a.m. to 1 p.m. Kiwanis Club of West Geauga is hosting its 72nd annual all-you-can-eat pancake, sausage and French toast breakfasts in the cafeteria at West Geauga High School, 13401 Chillicothe Road, Chester Township.
Cost is $10 for adults and $6 for children 6-11. Children under 6 are free. All proceeds support the community.
The club welcomes groups and individuals to volunteer for the community event. For more information, call Les Scott at 440-2210112 or visit wgkiwanis.org.
PGP Offers Scholarships
Protect Geauga Parks is offering its eighth annual Bob McCullough Memorial Conservation Scholarships to assist Geauga County high school seniors who will be attending two or four-year colleges, as well as those interested in pursuing non-degree technical programs that focus on environmental sustainability.
Three scholarships of $1,000 each will be awarded. Applications are due by midnight March 16. Visit ProtectGeaugaParks.us for application information and eligibility. Questions? Email info.protectgeaugaparks@gmail.com.
NOETIC Learning Math Contest
The Noetic Learning Math Contest is a national problem-solving competition that tests students' creative and critical thinking math intellect.
Grade-level winners Ella Branch, Colm Dugan, Keely Klein, Alexander Boukis, Zachary Gracon, James Davis, Andrew McNamara and Charles Allin were recently recognized at the West Geauga Board of Education meeting.
Ella Branch and James Davis scored in Noetic’s top 10th percentile amongst thousands of their grade-level peers across the nation. Congratulations to Ella Branch and James Davis on this outstanding accomplishment.
Shaw
from page 1
just wasn’t what I had anticipated it to be with all the shutdowns and restrictions and that type of thing,” Shaw said.
In the fall of 2021, Chester Township Fire Department was in turmoil after its previous longtime Chief John Wargelin was placed on paid administrative leave pending an independent review and analysis of the township’s fire department to determine if any Ohio Revised Code statutes had been violated.
Chester Township Trustees later approved a severance agreement with Wargelin, and the township and chief parted ways.
Shaw, who has worked in fire service for over 40 years, was hired as interim fire chief shortly after.
“It was firefighters that needed help and that’s just not something I can kind of turn my back on,” he said, adding he and township officials had agreed early on this would be a temporary position for him.
The plan at that time was to have parttime firefighter and paramedic Andrew Nagy become the department’s full-time assistant fire chief while Shaw trained him to eventually take over the chief’s role in 2025
“(Chester Township officials and I) came to an agreement on the timeframe and everything and they gave me a pretty clear set of instructions, of goals that they wanted me to reach in that three-year (timeframe) and I’m happy to say that we met all those,” Shaw said, highlighting some of his department’s accomplishments.
“(Our goals were to) stabilize the staffing, develop the officers as far as training and
West Geauga Schools
Global School Play Day
Westwood classrooms had the option to participate in Global School Play Day on Feb. 5. The purpose of the day is to provide stu dents an environment of supervised, unstruc tured play to be creative, problem-solve and socialize. No electronic devices are allowed.
Classrooms featured amazing fort struc tures built with boxes and blankets – designed, decorated and enjoyed by the kids - along with board games, crafts, puzzles and trains.
One classroom even had a “creation sta tion,” where students created anything using boxes and recyclable materials. Students were free to let their imaginations run wild.
their leadership skills and to find a replace ment … to gauge if there were any candidates internally that, you know, either have been thinking about or had the desire to move up to a chief’s position,” Shaw said.
that’s what we do and we try to prepare for those unfortunate events.”
Nagy, who became the full-time assistant fire chief last March, is grateful for Shaw’s mentorship.
“It’s been a great learning experience,” Nagy said. “I’ve learned a lot from him being a chief for 30-some years. He had a lot of great knowledge that he’s passed on to me, really helped hone my leadership skills and some of the bookkeeping stuff that, as a regular fireman, you’re not usually having much experience or exposure to.”
While Nagy’s knowledge and skill-sets have expanded under Shaw’s leadership, the fire chief has also experienced a lot of mental shifts — particularly learning to appreciate things without being reactive.
“It kind of dawned on me last month. So, we had one of those snow events and previously, I would hear the forecast and I would kind of go into planning mode, you know, ‘Oh geez, if the power goes out, are we gonna have to set up a warming center? And do I have to bring extra people in?’ … this and that. I didn’t feel that I had to do that because I had Assistant Chief Nagy here taking care of all that for me,” he said. “I was actually able to look at that snowfall and go, ‘Well, that’s really pretty outside.’”
Shaw said he is planning to get back into photography, a hobby he enjoyed many years ago.
“So, I’m going to get into that and just hopefully be able to look at the world, to try to look at the good of it, instead of always thinking about, ‘Oh, this is bad, you know, how are we going to react to it?’” he said.
Real Estate Transfers
Following is a list of area real estate transfers for the week ending Feb. 14, 2025, and period Feb. 18-20, 2025, provided as a public service by the Geauga County Auditor’s Office.
Cyndi and Larry Nicholson, 13386 Shady Lane, to Nicole and Adam Mocny, $318,500. (2.26 acres)
Trustee Ken Radtke said Shaw is planning to take some vacation time and Nagy will be appointed as the acting chief.
Trustees will vote on Shaw’s replacement
March, said Trustee Craig Richter.
“He’s turned around the department,” Richter said of Shaw. “(He) got us fully staffed at full time and has just turned around the environment into a very positive culture for the future.”
CHESTER TOWNSHIP
Carole Guider
Carole (nee Kin near) Guider, age 82, went to be with the lord on Feb. 9, 2025.
Born Feb. 26, 1942, in Kenton, Ohio, she was a Ches ter Township resident for 37 years before moving to Concord Township 20 years ago.
Carole was a Nurse (RN) with Bedford Hospital for 30 years, retiring in 1995. She had previously worked as a nurse for Bedford Hospital.
Carole was a 1960 graduate of Kenton High School and a 1963 graduate of Lima Memorial School of Nursing.
She loved being a part of her book club, bowling league and senior walkers.
Carole is survived by her husband of 62 years, George; children, Geoff (Stacey) Guider and Kathy (Jim) Lease; grandchildren, Clay (Alex), JD (fiancé Molly), Jessica (fiance’ Ryan), Jacy (fiance’ Braeden), Erika and Payton; and great-grandson, Owen Lease.
She is preceded in death by her parents,
Obituaries
Donald and Dorothy Kinnear; and brothers, Don and Keith Kinnear.
Family and friends called at Gattozzi and Son Funeral Home, 12524 Chillicothe Road, Chesterland, on Feb. 15, 2025, where services were also held.
In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions in Carole's name may be made to Hospice of the Western Reserve at www.hospicewr.org.
Fond memories and expressions of sympathy may be shared at www.gattozziandson. com for the Guider family.
Thomas Joseph De Marco
Thomas Joseph De Marco, 82, of Chester Township and Naples, Fla., passed away on Feb. 6, 2025.
A devoted hus band, father, stepfa ther, grandfather and brother, he is lovingly
survived by his wife, Bonna, with whom he shared 40 wonderful years, and his children: Todd (Heather) De Marco, Kristin (Derek Mansfield) De Marco, Lisa (Sam) Tyree, and Bonna’s daughters, Joelle (Pete) Snavely and Dana Kelly.
Tom is also survived by his youngest brother, Ray, and his beloved grandchildren: Max, Mia, Rex, Merin, Sylvia, Jack, Jess, Paige and Ruby.
Tom attended the University of Pittsburgh before launching a distinguished career in dentistry. In 1976, he became the youngest dental school dean in the nation at Case Western Reserve School of Dental Medicine. A dedicated educator and mentor, he shaped the careers of generations of students. Tom practiced periodontics for 56 years until retiring at age 80.
Tom and Bonna split their time between Ohio and Florida, traveling the world, enjoying great food and making lifelong friends. He found his greatest joy in gathering with family, sharing good wine, lively conversation and laughter. A natural storyteller, he delighted in collecting and sharing jokes, bringing good humor to all who knew him.
Tom’s legacy is one of generosity, dedication and a zest for life. He taught us to find humor in life and never miss a good meal with loved ones. Though he is deeply missed, his spirit lives on in the hearts of those he touched.
A private celebration of life will be held in the spring.
In lieu of flowers, the family asks that donations be made to a charity of your choice.
James B. Austin
Austin, lov ing brother, husband, fa ther of three and grandfa ther of four, passed away Thursday, Feb. 6, 2025, surrounded by his children. He was 74 years old.
and 1960s, the eldest son of Gerald and Jo sephine (nee Frey) Austin. His father was a World War II veteran who flew gliders into occupied Europe, and his mother was an elementary school teacher.
James’ childhood was that of a bygone Rockwellian era — his summers were spent playing baseball, fishing and hunting squirrels with his brother, Snick, his dog, Rex, and the neighborhood boys. It was the post-war America that bred self-reliance, fierce loyalty, lifelong friendships and more so than anything else, a moral compass that guided him
throughout his life.
After graduating from Hawken School, where each of his three children followed in his footsteps, Jim earned a bachelor’s degree at The College of Wooster.
Jim was a son of Cleveland and the arc of his life mirrored that of the city itself. After starting his career as a floor manager in the steel mills that defined the Cleveland of his youth, Jim continued to grow. He earned a Master of Business Administration from Cleveland State University.
Though he might have rather become a professor, he joined his wife in building their small, family accounting practice in Chesterland, the wholesome small-town where they chose to raise their family.
Family was always the most important aspect of James’ life. He met his wife, Karen M.N. Austin (nee Niedermeyer), in 1976. They were married in 1979 and they welcomed three children, Timothy, Alexandra and Ben in the years that followed.
James poured his heart and soul into raising his children and he was ever-present in their upbringing. What most will remember of James was that he never missed one of his children’s sporting events (and that it was somehow understood that the rules about parents remaining in the stands just did not apply to him; his place was on the sideline closest to the team).
However, his focus extended much further, in particular to education and integrity. He always said that education is the one thing in life that no one can take away from you, and that the most valuable asset you will ever own is your integrity.
Later in life, reflecting on the years past, James would tell those he loved that being a dad was the greatest privilege and pleasure of his life. In his own way, it was a reminder to never forget to enjoy the here and now, as it is all that is promised.
James could not have been more excited to meet his grandchildren, Bryce, Kensington, Brooks and Saylor. The grandkids quickly learned that ‘Grandpa Jim’ was the guy to call if they needed their toys assembled or if they wanted to sneak a milkshake. He took great pleasure in watching the grandkids play, swim, sail and play tennis.
James is survived by his three children, Ben, Alexandra and Timothy (Arianna) Austin; his brother, Richard (Caroline) Austin; and his four grandchildren, Bryce, Kensington, Brooks and Saylor Austin.
The family welcomed visitors at Gattozzi & Son Funeral Home, 12524 Chillicothe Road, Chesterland, on Feb. 12, 2025. The funeral service also was held at Gattozzi & Son on Feb. 13, 2025, with internment at Chester Township Cemetery to follow.
Classifieds
FOR RENT
Middlefield Township Apartment: 3BR, 2BA, 2 stories, large private deck. $1,250 monthly plus utilities and deposit. NO PETS. 440-665-2345.
Auburn: 1BR apartment, includes laundry room and attached garage. No pets. $975/mo. Call 440-2210649.
EVENTS
Square Dance Lessons! Middlefield, Perry, Bainbridge, Willoughby. Family Friendly dance for mind and body. Friendship set to music. Call 440-667-2446.
FOR SALE
Ford 9N Tractor, loaded with new parts, new tank, runs good, $2,200. ‘64 Chevy, powerglide transmission $350. Ariens Snowblower, 32”, electric-start, like new, $450. 440-313-5896.
Lake View Cemetery, 4 burial plots total (2 double lots): Cemetery Price $10,100 per dbl. Asking $8,000 each dbl. 440-729-0070.
B&G Mother’s Day Plates. large wooden rocking horse, copper kettles, many aquariums, clocks, kerosene lamps, pottery jugs, electric log splitter. Inquire 440338-3563.
Firewood: mixed hardwoods, 4’x8’x16-inch pieces, $135. Delivered within 15 miles of Chardon. 440-6875404.
ANTIQUES: Mahogany Dining Set w/table, chairs, buffet, hutch, great condition $2,950. Jenny Lind 3/4 Bed $300. Bureau w/mirror $150. Maple 4-pc Bedroom Set $150. 216-598-6652.
Alpina Sports Red Bird Cross County Skis w/poles, 210cm/6’.5”; Alpina Touring Boots size 11, EC, $170. Fischer Jupiter Control Cruising Skis w/poles, 200cm/6’.2”; Alpina Ski Boots size 8.5, EC, $180. 440-343-9446.
New white triple track Storm Windows: perfect for home & porch enclosures (7) 30-1/4x59-1/4 $125 each. George 440-336-5044.
Antique dining room set for sale. Lifetime furniture. Table with leaf, 6 chairs, buffet, sideboard, China cabinet. Good condition. Call/text 440-223-9023.
Family Burial Plot for sale. All Souls Cemetery. Serene location in prime section. Section 16. 216-440-8743.
Two burial plots at Western Reserve Memorial Gardens with full package: 2 vaults, 2 caskets, dual memorial headstone; $7,400. 440-476-0706.
Ladder jacks $50. 12-foot expanding plank $100. Mantis Tiller $200. Hitch Carrier Tray $100. Hand-held electric leaf blower $50. 440-554-5731.
HELP WANTED
MSI is hiring PT/FT Drivers and Direct Care staff. Benefits available. For more info call Cara at 440- 564-1027 ext.1.
RUSSELL: Stable help needed. 2 senior horses. Feed, clean stalls and let out. Morning and evenings. Possible apartment available. Must have experience and love horses. Call 540-355-8799, leave message.
Help Wanted: General Landscaper - Growing Local Company seeks Full Time Position starting early Spring $20 / hour. Call or Text Mike 440 392-4527.
PETS & ANIMALS
Barn homes needed for a number of fixed & vaxxed semi-feral cats whose elderly caretaker was evicted. Help us help them. Rebecca 440-321-2485.
FREE
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.
HOUSE WANTED IN CHESTERLAND. MINIMUM 2 BEDROOM, 2 BATH, 1800+ SQUARE FEET, and 1 ACRE IN GOOD CONDITION. PREAPPROVED AND READY TO BUY.
I AM NOT A FLIPPER! Call or text John (352)496-0897. If no answer, leave message. I ALREADY HAVE A REALTOR. For Sale By Owner is OK.
SERVICES
Need help organizing or clearing your clutter? Organizer Sharon can help! Charging by the hour. Call/text 440668-8768.
CHESTERLAND: Private Caregiver for Elderly. Available part-time, mornings and afternoons. Experienced. Reliable. References avail. 440-226-2244.
All Season Tree and Landscape LLC: Insured! Removals, Machine work, Climbing, Crane work, land clearing, trimming, storm damage. No job too small, no job too big!! CALL the pros you won’t regret it.
References upon request. SENIOR, VETERAN, FIRST RESPONDERS DISCOUNTS. Call Mitchel 440 622 2049.
Will do housework, cleaning, laundry, and elder care. Experienced with references. 440-313-1804.
ALL SAW PROS: All makes and models, Chainsaw Repair, General Maintenance, Porting, Rebuilds. Fast, friendly, efficient and reasonably priced!! Multiple References. Call Mitchal 440-662-2049. Senior, Veteran, First Responder Discounts!!!
WANTED TO BUY
4-wheelers, 3-wheelers, dirt bikes, mini-bikes, go-carts, golf carts, gators, farm tractors/equipment, trailers, riding mowers, snowplows. Paying cash. 440-413-3119. Also, scrap cleanup and removal.
Old fishing tackle wanted: fishing lures (wood or plastic), mouse to bear traps, wooden duck decoys. Call Lee 440-313-8331.
Buying all Stanley Bailey planes. Call Karl at 440-8123392.
