Chesterland News 1-20-22

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Volume 53, No. 18

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CHESTERLAND NEWS Wednesday, January 19, 2022

Your Community Newspaper Since 1967 FEELING THE SQUEEZE

The Wheels on the Bus Go Nowhere Local Schools Alter Routes To Address Driver Shortage

By Amy Patterson amy@geaugamapleleaf.com

If you’ve ever dreamed of getting behind the wheel of a big yellow bus, this is your chance.

A shortage of school bus drivers is plaguing the entire nation, with the results felt even in Geauga County.

An August 2021 joint survey conducted by the National Association for Pupil Transportation, the National Association of State Directors of Pupil Transportation Services and the Na-

Russell Township

New Year, Old Arguments Continue Over Building

By Ann Wishart ann@geaugamapleleaf.com

Russell Township may have all the money it needs to build a 4,800-square-foot garage for more than $700,000, but trustees can’t spend it until March, when the funds for 2022 will be appropriated.

And trustees apparently cannot sign a contract for the lowest and best bid until that time.

Township officials said they are required by law to accept or reject bids opened mid-December by the end of January.

Trustees held a special meeting the morning of Jan. 13 in an effort to decide what to do with the lowest bid they received for the project — about $742,000.

One option was to reject all bids See Russell • Page 8

Hanlon

Santilli

Markwardt

tional School Transportation Association found every region of the country has had to alter transportation plans due to the shortage, and on average, 90% of districts have altered their bus routes to account for the reduced number of available drivers.

Kenston Schools Superintendent Nancy San-

Stoddard

Kermavner

tilli said the nationwide bus driver shortage preceded the pandemic, but COVID has compounded the issue.

“We have been proactive in consolidating bus routes, recruiting and providing training for new drivers, but this is an ongoing challenge,” See Shortage • Page 5

West G Executes Gameplan Yet Orange Too Much

By Mason Cole sports@geaugamapleleaf.com The West Geauga Wolverines had a clear and concise game plan Jan. 11 when they hosted the Orange High School Lions. That plan: stop Trevor Moss.

Moss, a senior for Orange, was coming off a 50-point performance in his team’s most recent game against The Academy for Urban Scholars Youngstown.

To its credit, West Geauga executed its plan tremendously, allowing Moss to score only seven points throughout the contest.

But, despite their lockdown of Moss, the Wolverine defense still allowed Orange sophomore Dominic Anekwe to score 28 points, and West Geauga fell to the Lions, 62-46.

Wolverines Head Coach Jim Fisher praised Anekwe for foiling his team’s defensive plans.

“Anekwe, he did a good job, he See Basketball • Page 4

karlovec media group

Outside Sales

Karlovec Media Group is hiring account representatives to sell print and online advertising in and around Geauga County, specifically in the Chesterland and Kirtland areas. We are seeking self-motivated and aggressive salespeople who aren’t afraid of a challenge. Karlovec Media Group publishes the Geauga County Maple Leaf, Chesterland News, Middlefield Post, Kirtland Chronicle and Geauga Now. Sales areas will include both print and online media. Candidates must be able to manage time wisely, meet deadlines and have reliable transportation. The ability to understand and live with a deadline-driven business is a must.

The ideal candidate would have at least two years of sales experience.

Writers

Must have print writing experience. Areas in need of coverage include government meetings, features and local events.

Delivery

Driver needed to drop off newspapers at retail locations throughout Geauga County. Delivery must be done on Wednesdays and Thursdays during regular business hours – completed by Thursday at noon.

This is not delivery of individual subscriptions. Must have own vehicle and valid drivers’ license. Based out of Chardon.

Submit resumes to

editor@geaugamapleleaf.com

Meet the Artists Jan. 28, 7-9 p.m.

DAVE TURBEN/KMG

Orange defeated West Geauga 62 – 46. West G’s Jerry Kline-Ruminski (44) drives the lane past Orange’s Bonner (5).

Join dozens of artists to celebrate the pieces they created for opening night of the park district’s Maple SugART Sap Bucket Invitational at The West Woods Nature Center. The community art exhibition features more than 50 recycled vintage sap buckets transformed into creative works of art.

Maple SugART is presented in partnership between the Geauga Park District and the the Geauga Arts Council.

facebook.com/chesterlandnews @chesterlandnews

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Chesterland News

Wednesday, January 19, 2022

Chesterland News

Wednesday, January 19, 2022

Town Crier CV Herb Society Meets

Jan. 21, 12:30 p.m.

The Chagrin Valley Herb Society will be meet at Breezewood Gardens, 17600 Chillicothe Road, Bainbridge Township. Whitney Ikes will present “A Glimpse of Spring.” Refreshments and a meeting will follow.

Email chagrinvalleyherbsociety@gmail. com to RSVP. Prospective members can learn about the organization at chagrinvalleyherbsociety.org or on Facebook.

Audubon Bird Walk

Jan. 23, 8 a.m.

Join Blackbrook Audubon for its monthly Important Bird Area walk at Mentor Marsh State Nature Preserve. Meet at the entrance gate to the utility pipeline access road by the intersection of Woodridge Lane and Forest Road in Mentor Headlands.

For more information, email blackbrookaud@aol.com.

Bloodmobile

Jan. 24, 1-7 p.m.

American Red Cross will host a blood drive at Geauga West Library, 13455 Chillicothe Road, Chester Township.

Donors must be at least 17 years old, weigh at least 110 pounds and be in good health. Visit RedCrossBlood.org or call 1-800-733-2767.

Beneficial Insects Webinar

Feb. 2, 7-8 p.m.

Geauga County Master Gardener Volunteers will host a free webinar with Summit County Master Gardener Jeanne Poremski.

Learn about all the amazing insects that visit flowers.

The virtual program is sponsored jointly with the Native Plant Society. Register with Wendy by Feb. 1 at go.osu.edu/beneficialinsects to receive the Zoom link.

For more information, call the OSU Extension office at 440-834-4656. View a list of upcoming MGV sponsored classes at www. geauga.osu.

Spring Fish Sale

April 14, 1:30-3:30 p.m.

The Geauga Soil and Water Conservation District’s annual spring fish sale will be held on the midway at the Geauga County Fairgrounds. Orders are currently being taken for fingerling-size largemouth bass, channel catfish, bluegill/sunfish mix, minnows, redear “shellcracker” sunfish and white amurs. Pond safety kits are also available.

To place an order, visit www.geaugaswcd. com.

Order deadline is April 8. All proceeds support the district’s education programs.

Questions? Call 440-834-1122.

Help for Mental Illness

Family-to-Family is a free educational program being offered by Geauga County National Alliance on Mental Illness at Chardon United Methodist Church on Thursdays, beginning Jan. 20, from 6:30-8 p.m. The eightweek program provides education, resources and tools to family members and friends living with and or caring for their loved ones dealing with mental health conditions.

Registration is required; seating is limited. Call NAMI Geauga offices at 440-4875951.

Resource Center Sessions

Lake/Geauga Educational Assistance Foundation (LEAF) will be holding a free virtual session, “Get a Jump-Start on College Planning,” at 6:30 p.m. Jan. 24 for high school juniors and their parents on a Google Meet.

Hear about the college application process, timeline, how and when to apply for admissions and financial aid.

Register online at leaf-ohio.org or call LEAF at 440-525-7095.

LEAF is also offering free walk-in assistance for filing the 2022-23 FAFSA at Lakeland Community College Room C-2047. The sessions run Mondays, from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m., and Wednesdays, from 5-8 p.m., beginning Jan. 19. The sessions are open to the public; no appointment in necessary.

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karlovec Editorial Office 101 South Street P.O. Box 1166 Chardon, Ohio 44024 Phone 440-285-2013 FAX 440-285-2015 news@chesterlandnews.com Office Hours: 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.

Monday - Friday

group Advertising Office 8389 Mayfield Road, Suite B5 Chesterland, Ohio 44026 Phone 440-729-7667 FAX 440-729-8240 ads@chesterlandnews.com Office Hours: 9 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.

Monday, Tuesday, Thursday, Friday Closed Wednesday

Jeffrey B. Karlovec, Publisher John D. Karlovec, Editor Cassandra C. Shofar, News Editor Clinton Sestak, Sales Representative Jamie A. Ward, Sports Editor Beverly Thompson, Front Desk Ann Wishart, Staff Reporter Karen S. Kaplan, Graphic Design Amy Patterson, Staff Reporter Pamela J. Molnar, Production Supervisor

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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 news@chesterlandnews.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.

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Circulation • The Chesterland News is distributed for free to homes and businesses in the communities of Chester Township

and parts of Russell Township. It is mailed through the U.S. Postal Service.

• Copies are also available at more than 10 rack locations within Chester and Russell townships.

• Circulation in excess of 5,700.

• 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.

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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.

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Chesterland News

Page 4

Wednesday, January 19, 2022

Chester Government Update The Chester Township Board of Trustees began at 6:30 p.m. Dec. 29 with the approval of the Dec. 16 minutes.

In road department business, the trustees approved expenditures of $9,585 to Kennington Electric Corp for the replacement of wiring and installation of LED lighting and GFI outlets at the road department, $1,206 for two tires for the dump truck from Kolsom Tires and $18,901 for road salt from Cargill Inc. In fire department business, the board approved and signed the agreement between the township and the Chester Township Firefighters Association to extend the collective bargaining agreement for a period of 90 days to March 31 or until a successor collective bargaining agreement is reached. The board approved an after the fact payment of $5,010 to All American Fire Equipment for an 18-

inch positive pressure ventilation fan and batteries.

In new business, Chester voted for Kristina O’Brien to serve on the Geauga Trumbull and Waste Policy Committee for a two-year term beginning Jan. 1. Payment of a second invoice for Whiting and Reserve Lane was made to Cornerstone Earthwork, LLC for $265,001.36. The board approved use of the town hall parking lot for a Girl Scouts cookie booth sales March 12, 13, 19, 20, 26, 27 and April 2 and 3.

The year-end meeting closed with the trustees and Fiscal Officer Patricia Jarrett thanking Walter “Skip” Claypool for the service of his term to the township residents.

With no further business for the year, the meeting adjourned.

The special meeting on Jan. 4 was the trustees’ organizational meeting. Ken Radt-

ke was elected chairman and Joe Mazzurco was re-elected vice chair. Meetings will be held in accordance with Ohio Revised Code 121.22 (Ohio Open Meetings Act) and will start at 6:30 p.m. every other Thursday unless otherwise advertised.

The board authorized reimbursement for expenses and mileage, authorized heads of the departments to incur obligations of $1,000 or less on behalf of the township, authorized Jarrett to request advances of 2022 apportionment of estate and real estate tax in maximum amounts available for general, fire/EMS, road and bridges and police upon receipt of the schedule dates set by Geauga County Auditor and approved payment to the BZA and Zoning Commission members $25 for each meeting attended in 2021. Also approved were purchase orders and blanket certificates for the fire, road, police and general

fund to open up 2022 regular business spending. Liaisons were assigned for fire, police, road, zoning, park, credit card compliance and drug enforcement.

The board entered into executive session pursuant to Ohio Revised Code 121.22 (G) (1) to consider the appointment, employment, dismissal, discipline, promotion, demotion or compensation of one or more public employees and 121.22 (G) (3) conferences with an attorney for the public body concerning disputes involving the public body that are the subject of pending or imminent court action. Upon re-entering public session, the board moved to sign the severance agreement between Chester Township and Chief John Wargelin as of Jan. 4, 2022.

Submitted by Joseph C. Mazzurco, Chester Township Trustee

Basketball

on offense for its strong start.

“We have a bunch of offensive sets, but the main thing is to just keep moving,” Pitcock said. “I think we were moving pretty well. Orange was a little undersized, so we were trying to get Jerry Kline-Ruminski the ball in the middle, and that would just open up shooters and open him up in the post, and everything was just flowing.”

In the second half, the Wolverines’ offensive focus shifted to getting the ball to Kline-Ruminski, a junior, in the low-post.

Kline-Ruminski was quiet in the first half, scoring only four points. But he exploded onto the scene in the third quarter, scoring eight points and ultimately finished the game

with a team-high 16.

During halftime, Fisher and the Wolverines made adjustments ,as they knew that Kline-Ruminski would have opportunities to add points to the scoreboard in the second half. “(Orange has) three big men, and for whatever reason, they were not playing them as much as I thought,” Fisher said. “And with Jerry being our biggest guy, we thought there were chances we could take advantage of it.”

Despite leading the game at halftime and the second-half surge of Kline-Ruminski, West Geauga could not keep pace with Orange, hence the Lions’ final 16-point lead.

The loss highlighted what Fisher believes to be his team’s greatest issue, its inability to

close out opponents.

“We have to learn how to finish a game,” Fisher said. “We played Richmond Heights well in the first half; we were in the lead this game in the first half, and then we fell apart.

We’ve got to figure out how to stop their runs, and how we can get some runs.”

With the loss, West Geauga falls to a 2-9 overall record, 0-5 in the Chagrin Valley Conference. Although the start to their season has been bleak, Pitcock believes the Wolverines must remain positive.

“We need to just keep our heads up, just keep playing,” Pitcock said. “You can’t win every game, just on to the next one. Don’t think too hard on each loss.”

from page 1

was attacking,” Fisher said. “He made some outside shots which I didn’t know he was capable of doing, and I’ve got to give him credit for that.”

The loss stung badly for West Geauga, as the Wolverines led for most of the game.

Senior Finn Pitcock was orchestrating his team’s offense and controlling the game’s flow in the first half. Pitcock had 10 points during the first two quarters of the game, and West Geauga led Orange 26-25 at halftime.

Pitcock credited his team’s activity level

Chesterland News

Wednesday, January 19, 2022

Community Meetings Listed are public meetings and executive sessions for the coming two-week period, unless otherwise noted. These meeting notices are NOT legal notices.

Chester Township: Jan. 19, 12 noon – Board of Trustees, special meeting for 2022 long- and short-term departmental goals planning and discussion, executive session to consider the appointment, employment, dismissal and compensation of public employees, and preparing for, conducting or reviewing negotiations or bargaining sessions with public employees concerning their compensation or other terms and conditions of their employment, fire station construction management

Shortage from page 1

she said. “In addition, the process of earning a commercial driver’s license takes several months to complete.”

In Chardon, Superintendent Michael Hanlon said the district has been reasonably okay in maintaining staffing of teachers and substitutes, but transportation continues to be a significant challenge.

In his district, Hanlon said shortages are additionally showing in custodial staff, educational assistants and cafeteria workers.

Districts nationwide are also facing shortages of aides and educational assistants, cafeteria workers and substitute teachers. In September, Education Week reported the reasons behind the shortages are complex and include “fears over health and safety, frustrations over longstanding pay gaps and inequities, and political disagreements over masks and vaccines.”

A glance through the job listings of Geauga’s five public school districts shows in addition to openings for substitute teachers in all districts, applications for custodial, clerical, kitchen and support staff are welcome.

Cardinal Schools Superintendent Bill Kermavner said keeping schools open is a daily struggle.

“We have been hit by shortages in all areas — teachers, administrators, bus drivers,” he said Jan. 11. “We’ve been drastically impacted.”

The district has had a few remote days because substitute teachers are so hard to find.

“We struggle daily to keep our schools open if we have more than five teachers in a building absent,” he said.

Hiring new teachers is a serious challenge, as well.

“Four years ago, we would get 75 applications for a teaching position,” he said.

and financial items, 7 p.m. – Zoning Commission; Jan. 27, 6:30 p.m., Board of Trustees; Feb. 2, 7 p.m., Zoning Commission. All meetings are held at the Township Hall, 12701 Chillicothe Road, unless otherwise noted.

Russell Township: Jan. 20, 7:30 p.m., Board of Trustees; Jan. 26, 7 p.m., Zoning Commission; Feb. 3, 2 p.m., Board of Trustees. All meetings are held at Russell Town Hall, 14890 Chillicothe Road, unless otherwise noted. (NOTE: Trustees new meeting dates are first and third Thursdays.)

West Geauga BOE: Jan. 24, 7 p.m., regular meeting. All meetings are held at the BOE Community Room, 8615 Cedar Road, unless otherwise noted.

Recently, the district advertised for one elementary teacher and of the 15 applications they received, the applicants were either not qualified or they weren’t from the area, he said.

However, the district’s performance index scores have continued to climb, he added.

As a temporary emergency measure in early 2021, the Ohio Legislature, under House Bill 409, waived a post-secondary education degree requirement for all substitute teachers in Ohio for the 2020-2021 school year. Applicants only needed to obtain a non-renewable temporary substitute teaching license from the State Board of Education.

In October of 2021, in response to the continued shortage of available substitute teachers, the Ohio General Assembly passed — and Gov. Mike DeWine signed — Senate Bill 1, an emergency legislation that allowed boards of education to relax requirements for hiring substitute teachers for the 2021-2022 school year.

“Like everyone, we have difficulty finding substitute teachers, but that has been helped greatly since the state has given us flexibility on issuing substitute teacher licenses,” Berkshire Schools Superintendent John Stoddard said. “Transportation is fully staffed for the first time since I’ve been here and I credit our partnership with First Student (a Cincinnati-based transportation contractor) for that.”

Santilli said at Kenston, substitutes in all departments are at a premium.

“Teamwork has been needed as the faculty, staff and administrators assist with classroom and departmental coverage,” she said.

“We are all striving to maintain our high academic standards.”

West Geauga Superintendent Richard Markwardt said he is proud of the district’s staff for their efforts during the pandemic.

“I know that our students’ families are appreciative of the district’s ability to keep in-person instruction operational,” he said.

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Chesterland News

Wednesday, January 19, 2022

SWCD Offers Camp Scholarship The Geauga Soil and Water Conservation District (SWCD) is offering scholarship funding for the 2022 Camp Canopy, held June 12-17 at FFA Camp Muskingum in Carroll County. Founded in 1950 and formerly known as Ohio Forestry & Wildlife Conservation Camp, Camp Canopy is where high school students go to discover forestry, wildlife and adventure.

Sponsored by the Ohio Forestry Association, the weeklong camp explores many branches of forest ecology including silviculture, tree identification, wildlife and forestry management and forest products.

Campers have the opportunity to learn firsthand about Ohio’s forests and natural

resources through challenging and engaging activities, woodland hikes, demonstrations and outdoor experiences taught by resource professionals.

Applicants must be current Geauga County residents and enrolled in high school at the time of camp. Students who have completed eighth grade through seniors graduating this year are welcome to apply.

Applicants must complete the Geauga SWCD Scholarship Application form, including the short essay, and submit documents by 3 p.m. April 1.

For more information and the scholarship application, visit geaugaswcd.com or call 440834-1122.

West Geauga Schools

SUBMITTED

West Geauga Middle School Art Mural Club students continue the practice of painting their creations on the hallway walls. Kate Schaubert and Ashley Diaz are two of the many students who continue this long-established tradition.

Real Estate Transfers Following is a list of area real estate transfers for the weeks ending Dec. 31, 2021, and Jan. 7, 2022 provided as a public service by the Geauga County Auditor’s Office. Transfers may involve the sale of land only.

CHESTER TOWNSHIP Barbara Branagan, et al., 12370 Caves Road, to Barbara Branagan and Kerri Leigh O’Connor, $121,200. (3.00 acres) Kyle Christopher Chapic (trustee), Bentbrook Drive, to Timothy M. Preda (trustee), $170,000. (5.00 acres) Maxsim RES LLC, 7851 Birchwood Drive, to James C. Beach, $316,000. (1.03 acres) Sharon M. Lear, 12835 Westchester Trail, to Geoffrey R. and Michelle Rawe, $340,000.

(5.00 acres) Santina Alford (trustee), 11746 Lyman Road, to Florian Bremec, $235,000. (1.03 acres) Judith H. Angle, 12962 Kenyon Drive, to Maple Leaf Community Residences Inc., $191,000. (1.08 acres) James M. Mills, 8079 Sherman Road, to Enger Family LLC IV, $40,000. (1.00 acres)

Pearl Property Management LLC, 9066 Ranch Drive, to Steve B. and Pamela J. Hillebrecht, $65,000. (1.26 acres) RUSSELL TOWNSHIP Amy S. McGroarty, 14729 Caves Road, to Spenser P. Theiss and Rebecca A. Haritonovich, $300,000. (4.03 acres) DRP Homes LLC, Clarion Drive, to Diane Kathryn and William Alan Stauffer (trustees), $470,000. (0.55 acres) Joseph and Jill Snyder, 13530 Fox Den East, to Anthony B. and Nicole L. Kozelka, $525,000. (3.01 acres) Divvy Homes Warehouse I LLC, 8098 W. River Drive, to Patrick Scott, $315,000. (1.51 acres) The Cleveland Museum of Natural History, 8926 Pekin Road, to Crosscavan Farm LLC, $400,000. (10.00 acres) Daniel J. Roberts, 13931 Fox Hollow Drive, to John M. and Eszter Pinter Scudellari, $371,000. (2.39 acres) Kathryn Rena Souris, 9538 Fairmount Road, to Erich J. Kinkopf, $240,000. (0.99 acres)

Chesterland News

Wednesday, January 19, 2022

Page 7

Obituaries Michael Lee Schroeder

RUSSELL TWP. – Michael Lee Schroeder, age 61, of Russell Township, passed away Nov. 22, 2021, surrounded by family.

He was born Nov. 25, 1959, in Cleveland, to the late Frederick Richard Schroeder and Jeanne R. Schroeder (nee Ashton), of Russell Township.

Michael went to West Geauga High School, where he was highly competitive in sports.

He loved riding motocross, boating and anything that involved power and speed.

Throughout his life, Mike brought passion to everything he cared about, including his work as a carpet and upholstery cleaning professional, his family and friends, and his pets — domestic or wild like him.

You could always count on Mikey for a smile, a nudge, a dastardly laugh and a big BANG at parties. He wore his heart on his sleeve and was always up for lending a helping hand to anyone who needed it.

Mike is survived by his mother, Jeanne R. Schroeder; daughter, Stephanie Gionti (Vincent), of Perry; granddaughter, Evelyn Gionti; brothers Wesley Scott, of Chardon, and Dale (Janis), of Mentor; nephew and nieces, Owen (Shauna), Jenna (Dave) and Mallory Schroeder.

He was preceded in death by his father, Frederick Richard Schroeder; brother, Fred Richard “Dickie;” and nephew Scott E. Schroeder.

He was also loved by his grandparents, aunts, uncles, cousins and friends. Memories of Mike will forever bring a smile to our faces.

A celebration of Michael’s life will be held in 2022.

Mary McNeilly Goodman

CHESTER TWP. – Mary McNeilly Goodman, age 90, of Chesterland, passed away peacefully on Wednesday, Jan. 5, 2022.

Mary was the loving wife of Terrell “Terry” A. Goodman (deceased).

She is survived by her daughters, Wendy (Ken) Radtke, Connie Goodman and Sue (Mike) Wolter; granddaughters, Rikki (Tim) Rychel and Jessica Haberny; and great-grandchildren, Caroline and Carter Rychel.

Mary was a graduate of Cleveland Heights High and attended Bowling Green State University. She was an active member and past Deacon of Christ Presbyterian Church in Chesterland.

Mary was an avid golfer and past president of Locust Grove Golf Course. She was always on the go, as an active member of the Chesterland Historical Society, Chester Senior Center and St. Anselm’s Young at Heart group.

Mary was famous for her baking, most especially for her delicious Scottish Shortbread.

A celebration of Mary’s life will be held at a later date.

In lieu of flowers, donations to Christ Presbyterian Church in Chesterland or Geauga Humane Society’s Rescue Village would be appreciated.

and his grandchildren Andrew, Maria and Adam; his son, Mark (and wife, Sonata), and his grandchildren Hugo and Dominik; his daughter, Nancy, and his grandchildren Ivan, Neven, Mateja and Eva; and his son, Steven (and wife, Jamie).

Marko will be buried in All Souls Cemetery, in Chardon Township, in a private ceremony.

A Celebration of Life Mass will be held Saturday, March 12, 2022, at 10 a.m., at St. Paul Croatian Church located 1369 E. 40th St., Cleveland.

Prestige Jewels, Inc. is in good hands and will continue to honor Marko’s legacy with his youngest son, Steven “Stipe” Saric, at the bench. Continuing the tradition of old world, handmade, one-of-a-kind jewelry making.

Our family thanks the community for the continued show of love and support during this difficult time.

Eleonore Knauf

Marko Saric

Marko Saric passed into eternal life on Sunday, Dec. 12, 2021.

A resident of Boca Raton, Fla., Marko raised his family in Cleveland. He is survived by four children and nine grandchildren.

After completing a jewelry apprenticeship in Zagreb, Croatia, Marko pursued his dreams. He escaped communism for Paris, France. Caritas, a Catholic Charity, then lent a helping hand and brought him to America.

As legend has it, Marko’s first words of English were Chubby Checker’s famous lyrics, “Let’s Twist Again.” His love of music and dance extended out to the world of ballroom, where he and his wife performed competitively.

Born in Rudopolje, Lika, during World War II, Marko remained active in Croatian culture. He was President of the Cleveland Junior Tamburitzans and a member of the Croatian Fraternal Union.

Marko was also a member of the American Croatian Business Association, Founder of Prestige Jewels, Inc., and a parishioner of St. Paul Croatian Church.

He will be missed by his wife of 57 years, Yasna Saric; his son, Nino (and wife, Lora),

Eleonore Knauf (nee Roenn), age 83, passed away peacefully Jan. 8, 2022, in Akron.

Born on March 15, 1938, in Berlin, Germany, she immigrated to the United States at the age of 12 and had lived in Chester Township since 1973.

Eleonore, along with her husband, Dieter, was the former owner and operator of the May-SOM Dry Cleaners in Mayfield Heights.

She was a very active member of the Church of Saint Anselm, in Chester, including participation with the Bereavement Committee, the annual Thanksgiving dinner and Confirmation receptions.

Eleonore was the beloved wife of Dieter; loving cousin of Richard (Carol, deceased) Roenn, Roger (Nancy, deceased) Roenn, Mary (Michael) Armstrong, many others in Germany, and the late Robert (Judy) Roenn; devoted daughter of the late Herman and Ann Roenn; and dear niece of 12 (all deceased).

Mass of Christian Burial was held Jan. 15, 2022, at the Church of Saint Anselm, 12969 Chillicothe Road, Chesterland.

In lieu of flowers, memorial donations in Eleonore’s name may be made to a charity of your choice.

Online tribute video and condolences at www.gattozziandson.com.

Janna Rae Lifford

Janna Rae (nee Steinruck) Lifford, age 54, of Chesterland, passed away on Saturday, Jan. 8, 2022, at home after a battle with cancer.

She was born in Lancaster, Pa., on July 12, 1967, the younger daughter of Robert and Floris (nee Morris) Steinruck.

Janna earned her Juris Doctor (JD) from University of Akron School of Law in 1994 and a bachelor’s degree in mathematics from Grove City College in 1989. She graduated from Conestoga Valley High School in Lancaster, Pa., in 1985. In college, Janna was a member of the Sigma Delta Phi sorority in which she served as secretary.

She served as an Assistant Prosecutor with the Cuyahoga County Prosecutor’s Office, in Cleveland, for nearly 17 years until her death. Previously she worked as an Assistant Prosecutor in Ashland County, Ohio, Clinton County, Ohio, and Lancaster County, Pennsylvania.

Janna was a longtime member of the United Methodist Church, most recently Mayfield United Methodist Church.

She enjoyed gardening, reading and ice skating, and volunteered at several U.S. Figure Skating Championships.

Janna also enjoyed spending time with her large extended family.

She is survived by her husband, John Lifford; daughter, Anita Lifford; parents, Robert and Floris Steinruck, of Lancaster, Pa.; sister, Marci (Steinruck) Andrews and husband, Robert, of Leesburg, Va.; nieces, Laura Andrews, of Alexandria, Va., and Rachel Andrews, of Leesburg, Va.; and many aunts, uncles and cousins.

Interment will be in Lancaster, Pa. In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to the Mennonite Disaster Service, 583 Airport Road, Lititz, PA 17543 or https:// mds.org/donate-usa/.

Notices should be sent in writing by the funeral directors and memorial societies to: Geauga County Maple Leaf, P.O. Box 1166, Chardon, OH, 440245166, or faxed to 440-285-2015. The Maple Leaf charges a flat fee of $100 per obituary or death notice, including a photograph.

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Russell from page 1

and rebid the project, starting the process that began at least three years ago and progressed to this point in fits and starts.

The Geauga County Budget Commission has objected during annual hearings to the townships delays in building the garage.

During that time, the estimated cost for construction of a pre-engineered steel building increased from about $350,000 to between $600,000 and $700,000. Trustees set $700,000 as the maximum when advertising for bids in 2021.

Steel vs. Pole

Recently, township trustees discussed putting up a pole building for storage as opposed to a steel building because of lower costs.

The down side is a steel building should last at least 50 years while a pole building life expectancy is about 30 years and requires more maintenance, Trustee Jim Mueller said.

The discussion last Thursday revolved around funding a steel building.

“We need to decide or go back to the drawing board,” said Trustee Kristina Port.

The contract trustees propose has not been reviewed by the township’s assistant prosecuting attorney, said Melissa Palmer,

board of trustees administrator.

Trustee Matt Rambo said the attorney would probably need a couple of weeks to do so and she will be out of the office for 10 days.

He recommended reaching out to another attorney to vet the contract.

However, the 45-day limit for opening to letting bids will expire in two weeks, he said.

Township Fiscal Officer Karen Walder said using the additional money needed to contract with the lowest bidder would require trustees to change their strategy on some of the spending in their 2022 budget not appropriated.

She also noted the building architect has a separate contract with the township and that cost is not included in the bid.

Resident Charlie Campbell said he believes the township officials don’t have real experience with construction.

“You are doing the best you can, but in this case, you are being taken to the cleaners,” he said. “What are you getting? You have to do some research on what you are getting.

You are not asking enough questions.”

Dixon Offers Input

The J. Dixon Company Inc., of Slippery Rock, P.A., built the police station and the fire station, Mueller said.

At previous meetings, Mueller urged trustees to consider having the company build the storage building.

Wednesday, January 19, 2022

President Jim Dixon, whose company also takes on projects in Northeast Ohio, attended last Thursday’s meeting and offered advice on alternatives he said might save the township money on the storage building.

“What’s on the drawings? Somebody needs to do a hard estimate on the drawings,” he said, adding trustees and department heads could consider downsizing the building.

Dixon also suggested trustees hire a firm and contractor on a design-build contract.

The township tells the project manager how much they want to spend and that person designs according to the budget and takes care of the bidding process.

An architect may not be needed, he said.

“They would design the project around the budget,” Dixon said.

Palmer repeated the trustees need to accept a bid or reject them all by the end of the month.

“We don’t want to start another process,” Rambo said, adding those who bid on the project could sue the township.

“I want to get this accomplished before we move forward,” he said.

Walder emphasized the trustees need to have their attorney review the contract and inform the trustees about their legal options regarding the bids on the table and how to properly accept or reject them.

“Trustees can’t enter into a contract without the fiscal officer certifying the money is available,” she said.

Port said two of the bids are within 10% of the top figure of $700,000 and the money is available from the 2021 carryover. Pay out will not be until next spring and the permanent appropriations will be approved by then.

“Cash flow is not the problem here,” Walder said. “The problem is for the board to enter into a contract.”

She added she is concerned about the trustees’ understanding of township finances and the budgeting process, based on the questions they were asking.

“I’m uneasy embarking on a project of this magnitude,” Walder said.

Mueller asked where the estimate of $700,000 came from.

“The architect created that number,” Palmer said.

Mueller asked if the other trustees would consider hiring Dixon to look over the drawings and contract while the township’s

attorney reviews the contract.

“I think you are exposing the township to risk,” Walder said.

“I don’t want to muddy the waters by hiring somebody in,” Port responded.

“You have to let the process play out before you can interrupt it,” Rambo added.

Dixon said he’d look the drawings over for free and give the trustees his opinion before the end of January.

“Has anybody looked at the drawings? Do you really need all this?” Dixon asked.

Port said trustees talked to the department heads before having the plans drawn up.

“It’s not their (the department heads’) money,” Dixon said, noting the bidders would probably extend the 45-day limit and hold their price if asked.

Trustees voted unanimously to send the proposed contract to their attorney for review and to ask if it is acceptable to request a letter from the two lowest bidders agreeing to an extension.

Mueller requested copies of the plans and contract, indicating he might share them.

“I think we’re jumping the gun and allowing this to be something potentially misconstrued. I’d rather not go ahead,” Port said.

Rambo said if the plans are a public record, he didn’t object and anyone can make recommendations.

“Be careful how you go here,” Walder said, explaining she was concerned with ethics.

She said the township will have funds for the project once the appropriations are approved in March and it is up to trustees to appropriate those funds.

Rambo clarified the situation, saying, “We haven’t appropriated any money for this year, so if we want to approve a contract, we have to appropriate money for it.”

“And we can’t do that until March,” Mueller reiterated.

Palmer warned the lowest bidders could rescind their bids and Dixon said if trustees ask for and receive a letter extending the 45day period, that letter is a legally binding document. He also said trustees could send the chosen bidder a letter of intent to award the bid and, if accepted, the agreement would be good for a year.

“It feels like we are relying a lot on Mr. Dixon’s comments,” Rambo said.

Trustees tentatively set another special meeting for 7:30 p.m. Jan. 20.

Campus News David Beattie, of Russell Township, has been named to the fall dean’s list at Marietta College for the fall semester. Beattie is majoring in economics and political science and is a graduate of West Geauga High School.

Lauren Lance, Chester Township; and Jennifer Schweiger and Samantha Skerbec, both of Russell Township, were named to the dean’s list at University of Mount Union for the fall semester.

Nick Canitia, of Chester Township; and Eva Mulloy and Hannah Taylor, both of Russell Township, were named to the dean’s list at Ohio Wesleyan University for the fall semester.

John Patterson and Sally Sterkel, both of Chester Township, earned dean’s list honors at Edinboro University for the fall semester.

Lindsey Kulp, of Chester Township, achieved dean’s list status for fall semester at Bucknell University. Kulp is majoring in international relations.

Chesterland News

Wednesday, January 19, 2022

Police Blotter The following is a sampling of the calls handled by the Chester Township Police Department Dec. 29, 2021, through Jan. 11, 2022.

CITIZEN ASSIST Dec. 31 11:34 a.m., Shiloh Drive. Resident would like to speak with an officer about a contact he had with a male this morning, about an hour ago at the coffee shop. Thinks the male is a pedophile. Unknown male made sexual advances toward the caller.

Caller was unhappy about it and wanted us to be aware. No further description provided.

Jan. 6 3:42 p.m., Opalocka Drive. IR requested.

Citizen brining up old ammo to have destroyed. 11 rounds of .45 and 10 rounds of .22 placed with ammo to be destroyed.

FRAUD Jan. 4 8:49 p.m., Sperry Road. Caller received mail from T-Mobile requesting identification stating caller applied for service. Caller called T-Mobile and company needs a police report. Report taken for fraud.

The following is a sampling of the calls handled by the Russell Township Police Department Dec. 22, 2021, through Jan. 11, 2022.

SUSPICIOUS Dec. 31 10:15 a.m., Fairmount Road. Complainant came to the station to report he received a letter from a family member that was sent with a gift card enclosed in the envelope. The gift card had been removed and the envelope had been sealed with tape. Complainant reported it to the post office and requested a report on file with the department.

Plantar Fasciitis: What It Is and How a Doctor of Physical Therapy Can Help

By Dr. Adam M. Cramer If the first step of your morning sends intense pain shooting through your body, you are likely coping with the unpleasant condition known as plantar fasciitis.

This is a situation in which your plantar fascia, a fibrous tissue running along your foot’s bottom, has become inflamed. It is worse in the morning, which is why those first steps are usually a good indicator of what has gone wrong.

Fortunately, physical therapy performed by a doctor of physical therapy is an effective course of action to reduce the pain and heal the foot. In fact, 95 percent of cases are healed effectively without surgery.

What happens in Cramer your foot when you have plantar fasciitis?

The pain is caused by the inflammation of the plantar fascia, which is a thick band of fibrous tissue running along the bottom of your foot, connecting your heel bone to your toes. Besides causing severe pain, plantar fasciitis can limit your range of motion and seriously impact your quality of life especially if your hobby is walking or you are a professional athlete.

While the stabbing morning pain subsides someone as the day goes on, it intensifies if you stand for long periods of time or step on your foot after you have been sitting for some time. You can exercise, and the pain seems at bay, and then when you rest afterwards, it gets worse.

Why you need to get it under control

Even if you did have the mental stamina to ignore the pain, you should’t. Ignoring the pain can result in developing chronic heel pain that could ultimately lead to foot, knee, hip or back problems.

People who try to tough it out on their own respond by getting off their feet and their subsequent inactivity can prompt weight gains and limiting lifestyles. Lack of

exercise can create other health issues in itself.

How physical therapists can help you

When you seek help from your Doctor of physical therapy, they will work with you to reduce the inflammation and pain through hands on manual mobility treatments, strengthen your foot and then teach you how to treat it independently once under control.

You will be given a series of specially prescribed stretches to stretch the plantar fascia and Achilles tendon and then to strengthen your lower leg muscles.

Using heat therapy and laser therapy is key to enhancing blood flow and promoting mobility. At MyoFit Clinic we utilize the instrument assisted soft tissue mobilization tools to enhance mobility of the plantar fascia. In extreme cases dry needling is very effective at reducing all symptoms immediately with extended pain relief benefits.

Guarding foot health is important

We recommend physical therapy provided by a doctor of physical therapy as quickly as possible after you suspect you have plantar fasciitis, and that is because we know we can help and we recognize the vital importance of foot health to overall health and wellness.

Don’t waste your time on injections, immobilizing boots or nighttime splints. These will not help you to completely get rid of your symptoms, see a physical therapist first where no referral is required and treatment is covered by insurance if you want to completely eliminate your symptoms fast.

The average person walks an estimated 150,000 miles in their lifetime, which is roughly the equivalent of walking around the world six times.

You still have miles to go, and you want to make those miles without pain.

If you or a loved one is suffering from neck pain please consult with a physical therapist immediately to get back on track FAST! Dr. Adam M. Cramer, PT, DPT, is a licensed physical therapist, pain specialist and founder CEO of MyoFit Clinics in Chardon, Ashtabula & Middlefield, Ohio. Call 440-2861007 for a consultation. MyoFitClinic.com

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Chesterland News

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Wednesday, January 19, 2022

Classifieds AUTOS & PARTS

HELP WANTED Looking for roofers. Salary based on performance. 440-749-0498.

FOR RENT Auburn Twp Studio Apt for Rent. No Smoking. No Pets. Heat, Trash, Snow Removal & Lawn Care Included. Quiet Country Setting. Kenston School District. $700/month. Contact Lou @ 440.336.3537.

NEWBURY: 3-bd, 1.5-ba, Condo, West Geauga Schools, newly renovated, kitchen appliances. $1,200/month plus security. Call 440-279-3160, includes lawn mowing and snowplowing.

FOR SALE Shop AVON at home or office. Delivery and a 100% Satisfaction Guarantee.

Bev Thompson Avon Independent Sales Representative Call: 440-708-8045 Visit my Web site: https://www.avon.com/ myavon/bthompson8804 FREE FREE Non-working 28x26” chest freezer. Excellent for dry storage, feed, etc. Must remove from basement. Please call Dave 440-221-3915.

Antique clocks many; large greenhouse panes of glass $5 each: humpback chest $89; large rocking horse $79. 440-338-3563.

Two used JL Audio 12W6v2 Subs, Two used Pioneer Mono PDX-M6 amps. All wiring included. Excellent condition.

Priced to sell. $250. Text 440-552-4400.

January Pork Harvest. No antibiotics, no hormones, all natural feed. 440-636-5747.

Large size glider/rocker, brown, wooden sides on bottom. Very good condition.

440-834-8816.

Black metal king canopy bed with frame, and box springs never used still in the plastic wrap. 440-688-4041.

Have you ever considered learning piano? Here’s your opportunity! Lowery upright piano, walnut, excellent condition. $300. 440-728-0970.

GREAT DEAL! Four (4) great shop or sunroom windows. Large size 44”x77” tall. Brand new Simonton.

Pd. $550/ each. Selling $250/each. 216-570-4998.

Billard dumbbell weight plates and collars, golf bag with irons, high chair with tray, iron doorstop, sleds, Best Offer. 440729-1082

GARAGE/ESTATE SALES

PETS & ANIMALS Snookie: 6 month female grey/white cat, spayed, shots, FIV/feleuk negative.

Shy, sweet, playful, loud purr-pot. Needs indoor home. 440-321-2485.

Snookie: 10 month grey/white cat, spayed, shots, FIV/feleuk negative.

Sweet, playful with foster parents, other cats; shy with strangers. Purr-pot. 440321-2485.

SERVICES

WANTED TO BUY

John’s Plumbing: Affordable and reliable. Water heaters, toilets, faucets, drain cleaning, gas lines, sump pumps, well tanks. 440-285-0800.

Buying all Stanley Bailey planes and machinist tools. Call Karl at 440-812-3392.

Joe Eicher doing roofing, siding, remodeling, cleanout houses, we do most anything. Call between 8a-4p, 440-813-4272.

No answer, leave message.

Offering special discounts for interior and exterior painting and staining this season. 20+ years experience. Professional and insured. Call Dan 440-342-4552.

If you need to have a moving sale or estate sale. Call Kathy Willis at 440-8403226.

Marketplace Mall in Middlefield is looking for vendors, retailers, artisans and crafters with unique and quality merchandise. Call 440-313-8147 for more information.

Classifieds 440-729-7667 20 words for $12 Submit your news to

news@chesterlandnews.com

Deadline: Friday at Noon

Wednesday, January 19, 2022

Chesterland News

Classifieds

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Chesterland News

Wednesday, January 19, 2022