Geauga County Maple Leaf 1-29-2026

LeafMaple Leaf

GEAUGA COUNTY

Spidalieri

Booted Off,

Haupt Added To NOACA Board

By Allison Wilson Wilson@kArlovecmediA com

Following weeks of heated discussion, the Geauga County Commissioners voted 2-1 on Jan. 22 to ratify changes to the Northeast Ohio Areawide Coordinating Agency bylaws.

Commissioners Jim Dvorak and Carolyn Brakey voted in favor of the changes and Commissioner Ralph Spidalieri voted against them.

The bylaw changes will require board members and alternates to be elected officials or county employees with expertise in transportation, planning or other specialized fields.

Despite Ag Exemption Snags, New Amish Business Approved

By Ann WishArt Ann@kArlovecmediA com

When Marty Miller decided to build a butcher shop near his home on Madison Road in Parkman, he understood his property fell under an agricultural exemption.

Broadly, an agricultural exemption is granted by the zoning inspector for structures used to house animals or equipment for farming, according to the Ohio Revised Code.

While preparing for the project last fall, Miller and his partners sought a bank loan and received a square-footage permit for the building from then-Zoning Inspector John Spelich, Miller told Parkman

Supreme Court Rejects Grendell Appeal

stAff report

The Ohio Supreme Court has declined to reconsider its previous decision suspending Geauga County Juvenile and Probate Court Judge Tim Grendell from the practice of law for six months, according to a Jan. 20 case announcement.

In November 2025, the court ordered Grendell suspended with-

out pay for 18 months, 12 months stayed, in response to misconduct in a case in which he ordered two juvenile boys be detained after they refused to visit their father.

Grendell also initially faced judicial misconduct charges related to a dispute with the Geauga County Auditor’s Office and for providing testimony

in support of Ohio House Bill 624, sponsored by his wife, former state Rep. Diane Grendell. The court dismissed both of those counts.

Grendell asked the court to reconsider its decision in December. His attorney, Stephen Funk, argued the decision to detain the boys

See Grendell • Page 3

Firefighters Put Out Multiple Blazes in an Hour

By Ann WishArt Ann@kArlovecmediA com

Fire departments across Geauga County and neighboring areas were stretched thin on the freezing evening of Jan. 20, responding to four fire-related incidents in just over an hour.

Burton Fire Department responded to a two-alarm fire at 8:19 p.m. on Hotchkiss Road in Burton Township, Chief Brian Davidson said in a press release.

“Units arrived on scene and reported a large, two-and-a-half story single family dwelling with a working fire, flames showing from the residence on the second floor and roof,” he said. “Interior attack crews were forced to exit the structure due to exploding firearm ammunition on the second floor.”

The family and pets evacuated the home after smelling smoke and hearing crackling sounds in the walls, according to the Geauga County Sheriff’s Office report. No injuries were reported.

About 10 fire departments from Geauga, Lake, Cuyahoga, Portage and Trumbull counties assisted in extinguishing the blaze and establishing a tanker shuttle for water supply in freezing temperatures, Davidson said.

The fire was under control by

Grendell

Community Meetings

Listed are public meetings and executive sessions in the county for the coming week, unless otherwise noted. To have a public meeting included in this section, fax information to 440285-2015 or email editor@karlovecmedia.com no later than Monday noon. These meeting notices are NOT legal notices.

Geauga County: Feb. 2, 10 a.m., Geauga County Budget Commission, Auditor’s Office, 215 Main St. All county meetings are held at the Geauga County Administrative Building, 12611 Ravenwood Drive (Ste. #), Claridon, unless otherwise noted. County commissioners meetings are held in Room B303.

Auburn Township: Feb. 2, 7 p.m., Board of Trustees. All meetings are held at the Administration Building, 11010 Washington St., unless otherwise indicated.

Burton Township: Feb. 2, 7 p.m., Board of Trustees. The meeting will be held at the Burton Township Administration Building, 14821 Rapids Road.

Burton Village: Feb. 3, 6 p.m., Village Council,

special meeting to discuss and approve legislation for changes to the handbook and a NOPEC grant request. All meetings are held at 14588 W. Park St., 2nd Floor, unless otherwise noted.

Chardon Township: Feb. 2, 7 p.m., Zoning Commission; Feb. 4, 7 p.m., Board of Trustees. All meetings are held at Town Hall, 9949 Mentor Road.

Chester Township: Feb. 4, 7 p.m., Zoning Commission; Feb. 5, 6:30 p.m., Board of Trustees. All meetings are held at Township Hall, 12701 Chillicothe Road, unless otherwise noted.

Claridon Township: Feb. 2, 6 p.m., Board of Trustees, at the Administrative Building, 13932 Mayfield Road.

Hambden Township: Feb. 2, 6 p.m., Zoning Commission; Feb. 4, 6:30 p.m., Board of Trustees. All meetings are held at the Town Hall, 13887 GAR Highway, unless otherwise noted.

Huntsburg Township: Feb. 3, 7 p.m., Board of Trustees. All meetings are held at the Town

Hall, 16534 Mayfield Road.

Montville Township: Feb. 3, 7 p.m., Board of Trustees. All meetings are held at the Montville Community Center, 9755 Madison Road, unless noted.

Parkman Township: Feb. 3, 7 p.m., Board of Trustees. All meetings are held at the Community House, 16295 Main Market Road, unless otherwise noted.

Russell Township: Feb. 5, 2:30 p.m., Board of Trustees, in the Community Room, 8501 Kinsman Road.

South Russell Village: Feb. 3, 5:30 p.m., Architectural Board of Review; Feb. 5, 7 p.m., Village Council. All meetings are held at the Village Hall, 5205 Chillicothe Road, unless otherwise noted.

Thompson Township: Feb. 3, 7 p.m., Board of Trustees, at the Geauga County Public Library - Thompson Branch.

Troy Township: Feb. 3, 7 p.m., Board of Trustees; Feb. 5, 7 p.m., Zoning Commission. All meetings are held at Troy Community Center, 13950 Main Market Road, unless noted.

Bainbridge Trustees Address Salt Shortage Rumors

stAff report

Bainbridge Township officials addressed online rumors about winter road maintenance during the Jan. 26 trustees meeting, emphasizing the service department still has salt and continues to plow roads.

Trustee Kristina O’Brien said a rumor circulating online claimed the service department was “out of salt” and “wasn’t plowing roads,” allegedly because trustees had stopped overtime for the department.

“First of all, trustees have never stopped overtime and our service department right now is 5 a.m. to 9 p.m. — 16 hour days — to keep us safe,” O’Brien said. “It's just so discouraging to hear ridiculous rumors. So no,

Grendell from page 1

was supported by the Ohio Revised Code and court precedent.

Funk also argued Grendell should not be required to pay the full court costs because he was only disciplined for one of the three charges.

Stacy Hartman, the mother from the juvenile case, criticized Grendell’s attempt to appeal the case in a Jan. 20 statement.

“A judge who respects the judiciary and the oath of judicial office would have accepted responsibility for their actions as well as the consequences of their behavior,” she said. “Judge Grendell’s punishment pales in comparison to the damage he has caused, and yet he has continued to deny his misconduct and malfeasance, opting to shift blame, gaslight and dishonestly represent the judiciary. A higher authority has spoken. This man should never be seated in a position of authority again.”

they're not true.”

Service Director Alex Hansel assured officials and residents the township has salt, but has been conserving it.

The township is under an Ohio Department of Transportation contract and paying $48 per ton for salt, Hansel said, adding the department currently has about 1,200 tons of salt on hand and recently placed an additional order.

O’Brien said the township ordered 500 tons last week, which arrived within a few days.

“We've still got salt, but we have shifted to taking care of hills, curves, intersections, in some (areas), if a main (road) is totally flat and straight, then we're letting them go as far as salt goes,” Hansel said. “They're still getting plowed off.”

SEEKING AN INDIVIDUAL FOR

Geauga Public Health Board Seat

Geauga County Residents interested in oversight of the county’s health department are invited to apply for appointment to the Geauga County Board of Health.

THERE IS ONE SEAT OPENING:

A five (5) year term beginning in March of 2026 and ending in March of 2031

The board of health works cooperatively with the Geauga County Health Administrator and staff, the Health Commissioners and elected local government officials to educate and ensure services within the department are reasonably met while maintaining compliance within the departments budget, state laws, and the Ohio and U.S. Constitution.

Health Board meetings are scheduled on the 3rd Wednesday of each month at 5:00 pm and are held at the county building located in Claridon Township.

LETTER OF INTENT AND RESUME SHOULD BE EMAILED TO: Jason Sutter, HDAC Chairman, at triumphjay58@yahoo.com

February 25, 2026: Last day Letter of Intent and Resume will be received

March 4, 2026, 6:00pm:

Interview in front of the HDAC Screening Committee at the Claridon Township Administrative building. March 11, 2026, 7:00pm:

Presentations and full HDAC vote on the 3rd floor of the county building in Claridon Township.

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Auburn Trustees Plan to Raise Roof of Adam Hall

By Ann WishArt Ann@kArlovecmediA com

Auburn Township Trustees agreed Jan. 19 the roof of Adam Hall Community Center on East Washington Street needs to be raised and redesigned due to ongoing water damage.

Trustee Riley Davis said he inspected the building, which accommodates up to 200 people, and found numerous active leaks and deteriorating drywall.

Some tape joints are wet and mold could be growing behind the walls, said Davis, who was appointed facilities liaison at his first meeting Jan. 5.

Trustee P.J. Cavanagh said the roof has been reshingled three times in the past two decades and trustees discussed fully replac-

Business

from page 1

Township Trustees at their Jan. 20 meeting.

However, the permit was recently revoked due to questions surrounding the agricultural exemption status, causing Miller a lot of stress, he said last Tuesday.

Much to Miller’s relief, the Geauga County Prosecutor’s Office confirmed Jan. 27 the butcher shop does qualify for the exemption, said Parkman Township Trustee Brandon Reed in a follow-up call.

Nevertheless, the journey to this point was a winding road for the Amish farmer.

ing it last year.

However, a poor design and insufficient insulation appear to be the root cause of the water problem, he said.

The lack of snow from the roof peak to about four to eight feet down indicates heat loss, while 12 to 16 inches of ice buildup in the gutters suggests snow is melting near the peak, Cavanagh said.

“If we (reshingle) it, we would just have to put it on the schedule to do again in six years. It needs re-engineering,” he said.

Trustee Mike Troyan said the roof may need a different pitch.

“Nothing is going to be an easy fix and it’s not going to be cheap if we are going to do this right. We’re talking a major problem,” he said, adding roofers and engineers have proposed various fixes.

The Root of the Issue

Miller said his lender advised him to split off 2.78 acres from his 17-acre farm and build on the smaller lot so that if the business failed and the bank repossessed the property, he would not lose the entire farm.

He divided the property in September, according to the Geauga County Auditor’s Office website, and said during the Jan. 20 meeting the foundation was started by another Amish man, Jerry Byler.

Current Zoning Inspector Mark Strumbly told trustees he sent Miller a letter Jan. 19 revoking his zoning permit after being informed a butcher shop is not a permitted use

PUBLIC NOTICE

NOTICE TO GEAUGA COUNTY TAXPAYERS PAYMENT OF REAL ESTATE TAXES

Last Day for Payment of First Half of 2025 REAL ESTATE TAX IS February 18, 2026

Notice is hereby given the Treasurer’s books for the First Half 2025 real property tax collection are now open for payment and will close for the first half on Wednesday, February 18, 2026. In accordance with the Ohio Revised Code, second half taxes paid (or postmarked in the case of mail payments) after February 19, 2026 will accrue a 10% penalty.

Further, it is the property owner’s responsibility to notify this office in writing when an address is changed or when a mortgage is paid or sold to another company in order that the tax bill is sent to the correct address.

Every effort is made to see that you receive your tax bills; however, the Ohio Revised Code provides the property owner is responsible for payments even if you did not receive your bill. Please call us if you have not received a tax bill unless you have made previous arrangements with a financial institution to pay them.

FAILURE TO RECEIVE A TAX BILL WILL NOT AVOID A PENALTY.

Military Reservists and National Guard members who are called to active duty may defer payment of their real estate taxes until six months after their tour of duty ends. Spouses and/or dependent parents may also be eligible for this tax deferment.

Taxes may be paid at the Treasurer’s office located in The Opera House, 211 Main Street, Suite 1A, Chardon, OH 44024. A drop box has also been installed near the entrance for your convenience. Payments placed in the drop box on the last day of collection will be collected and posted the next day. Payments received in the drop box on Thursday, July 10, 2025 will be considered late and penalties will apply.

Regular Office Hours: Monday thru Friday, 8:00 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.

Checks should be made payable to: Geauga County Treasurer. Phone: 440-279-2000

Christopher P. Hitchcock Treasurer,

Geauga County Publish as required by Ohio Revised Code Section 323.08 Jan22-29, 2026

“We need to get a professional up there,” Troyan said.

Cavanagh said improving insulation must be a priority, but the project also must fit within the township’s budget.

“The real goal is to fix it,” he said. “It’s going to take more than a simple roof.”

Davis urged trustees to move quickly.

“I don’t want another seven months to go by again before we do anything,” he said.

Troyan directed Davis to gather all available records related to Adam Hall as a starting point.

“Anything around here that’s leaking — whether it's a roof or a toilet — is a priority,” Troyan said.

Trustees also revisited a contract for repairs to the historic Parkman Township Town Hall at the corner of Auburn Road and East Washington Street.

on a residential parcel once that parcel has been separated from the main farm.

If the property had not been divided, a butcher shop might qualify as a home occupation, Strumbly said.

In a followup phone interview, he said he revoked the permit on the advice of the county prosecutor’s office.

Miller insisted during the Jan. 20 meeting the smaller lot still qualifies for an agricultural exemption because he will keep cows there.

“The only reason we did that little lot was to make the bank and (Geauga County) Health Department happy. It was my great-grandfather’s (property),” he said, visibly upset. “It’s just so hard to keep everybody happy.”

Trustee Joyce Peters questioned whether the smaller parcel should qualify as agricultural.

“Who determines if it is agricultural?” she asked. “I think we need a legal interpretation. We can’t set precedence (that) we’re going to have to back down on all the time. If it’s not a commercial property, we need a legal opinion.”

Strumbly said he understands the determination rests with the zoning inspector.

Dave Dietrich, a local zoning expert, said in a followup interview the zoning inspector is responsible for reviewing the exemption application submitted by the property owner or builder.

Designation, Process Explained

Dietrich provided the following explanation regarding agricultural exemption:

“The zoning inspector, based upon the application and site plan submitted to him — as well as other relevant facts — determines if a proposed use is compliant with the zoning regulations for the affected zoning district. If the proposed use is not permitted in the zoning district, then the application is denied and the use variance request to the BZA is required.

“If an owner desires to claim an agricultural exemption, he must complete the appropriate applications and demonstrate that the proposed use, and any structures incidental to it, fall within the definition of agriculture per the zoning resolution and the applicable provisions of the Ohio Revised Code.”

In a 2013 article titled, “Agricultural Activities in Ohio Can be Exempt from Local Zoning,” Ohio State University Professor Peggy Kirk Hall, from the OSU Extension Agricultural and Resource Law Program, noted those activities include processing and marketing of farm products “...if those activities are conducted in conjunction with, but secondary to, actual production of those products.”

She also wrote, “If a building or structure

Davis said he reviewed the contract with Caves Construction and noted few changes, but the contractor now recommends using a cast-iron railing rather than aluminum on the proposed ramp because it will hold up longer.

“And an iron railing would be a better fit for the township,” Davis said, adding it would cost about $4,500 more than aluminum.

The current contract includes the iron railing, though Caves will install aluminum if trustees prefer, Davis said.

“I’d rather spend the extra money and do it right the first time,” Troyan said.

Trustees also discussed redesigning the ramp so the platform meets Americans with Disabilities Act accessibility requirements.

Because Davis received the contract information three hours before the Jan. 19 meeting, Troyan tabled the decision until February.

is directly related to an agricultural activity on the same parcel of land, then Ohio zoning law does not allow a county or township to require a zoning certificate or prohibit the construction or use of the building.”

Strumbly said in a followup phone interview he believes Miller plans to use the butcher shop as a farm market to sell beef he raises directly to the public.

Hall also said a farm market is permitted per Ohio law “...if at least 50% of the market’s gross income comes from produce raised on farms owned or managed by the farm market operator.”

Peters said she would like to hear the opinion of the Geauga County Prosecutor’s Office. Reed, zoning liaison for the board, said he would contact the township’s assistant prosecuting attorney to determine how the township should proceed.

Transition Complications

Strumbly previously served as assistant zoning inspector to Spelich, who originally reviewed and approved Miller’s applications. Last summer, Spelich had an accident and died at home on Jan. 10, according to his obituary. He was unable to perform his duties while hospitalized.

Strumbly said he attempted to handle zoning cases in the interim, but documentation related to Miller’s case has been difficult to locate, which he attributed to some disorganization in the zoning office.

“With our zoning inspector (Spelich) being gone so long, things fell through the cracks,” Peters said. “We just have to take the next step.”

Strumbly said in the followup interview he did not know Miller planned to raise the beef to be butchered on his own land when he revoked the permit.

When the bank learned the permit had been revoked, it froze Miller’s loan, Strumbly said, adding he offered to recombine the parcels if that would solve the problem.

Strumbly said if it was determined Miller’s building was not exempted, he would “push him through” the township board of zoning appeals.

“He’s got a lot of time and money involved, has investors,” he said.

Parkman has a large Amish population, and residents should feel comfortable applying for permits, he said.

“I want the Amish to come to me – I don’t want to scare them off,” he said.

Given the assistant prosecutor’s opinion, Reed said Tuesday Miller was clear to proceed with his business.

Chester Trustees Move Toward Bidding on Road Garage

By emmA mAcniven mAcniven@kArlovecmediA com

Chester Township Trustees informally agreed Jan. 22 to move forward with the bidding process for a new road garage, though some concerns remain about the project’s location.

Trustee Brandon Davis said he wanted to clarify he is not opposed to building a new road garage, after raising questions about its proposed location at the Jan. 8 meeting.

“What I was doing — and what I think we all were doing — was we're trying to figure out the right decision to make and the right design,” Davis said. “It's a 50-year decision. It's $3 million, which is like a third of our annual cash flows.”

Trustee Craig Richter emphasized the importance of ensuring all trustees are comfortable with the project before moving forward with bidding.

“ We slowed it down so that (Davis) can get comfortable with it because it was a change of a trustee,” Richter added, referring to Davis, who was elected to the trustee seat last November, being new to the role.

Richter also stressed the need to determine the project’s actual cost.

“We need to start thinking about that

Fires

from page 1

10:51 p.m. and crews remained on the scene conducting overhaul operations until 1:40 a.m., he said.

“Property and content loss is estimated around $300,000,” Davidson said, adding the Geauga County Fire Investigation Unit is investigating the cause of the fire.

While Burton firefighters were battling the blaze, a traffic crash and separate emergency medical incident were reported.

“Community Care Ambulance out of Middlefield handled the EMS call and Chardon Fire Department handled the traffic crash incident,” Davidson said.

Berkshire Drive Fire

At 8:07 p.m. Jan. 20, Chardon Fire Department was dispatched to a structure fire on Berkshire Drive in the Aquilla Village neighborhood of Claridon Township, according to a press release from Chief Justin Geiss.

Occupants reported electrical problems accompanied by crackling sound coming from the ceiling, he said.

“Crews quickly identified and extinguished a fire located in the attic space of the home. Fire damage was minimal; however, due to limited access to the fire area, the residence sustained extensive water damage and overhaul damage,” he said.

The American Red Cross was contacted to assist the family, and the GCFIU is also investigating the fire.

“While this incident does not appear to be related to improper use of heating appliances … with frigid temperatures approaching, we would like to remind residents to follow all manufacturer-related operating instructions for heating equipment,” Geiss said, including:

Maintaining a minimum three-foot clearance around space heaters;

Plugging space heaters directly into wall outlets;

bid package and when we're going to put it out and if we're going to put it out because, if we're comfortable with the drawings … we have to go out and find out how much this is going to cost,” Richter said.

Past projects, such as the road department garage, have sometimes come in at

double the expected cost, he added.

“App Architecture is pretty much paid already, so they're paid for this stuff,” Richter said. “So, the only cost that I can see — and correct me if I'm wrong — the only cost I can see at this point, if we go out to bid, is advertising for putting together the bid and then

going out for the advertising. So, I'm not sure if you're ready to do that or you want to wait (for) another meeting, but we got to start thinking about doing it.”

Trustee Ken Radtke said he is ready for the bid announcement, but understands Davis still has concerns about the location.

Township Administrator Mark Purchase said the architectural drawings have already been paid for through App Architecture and the next step is to deliver the drawings and prepare for the bidding process.

“I still have some questions that I'm trying to get answered,” Davis said, adding he would like to meet with Road Superintendent John Onyshko to confirm whether the site is the best operational location.

“My stuff is more about the long-term planning for the site,” he said.

Fiscal Officer Patricia Jarrett agreed with Richter and Radtke that Davis should feel comfortable with the project before moving forward.

“You're new,” she said. “You need to take the time.”

Purchase said he will return to trustees for a formal motion to advertise for bid, but wanted trustees to give verbal consensus at the meeting to proceed with that step, which they did.

Firefighters Face Flames in Freezing Temps

stAff report

Severe winter weather challenged fire fighters Jan. 25 as they responded to a barn fire in the 12000 block of state Route 608, Chardon Fire Chief Justin Geiss said in a press release.

The barn fire was well-involved when firefighters arrived on scene around 1:30 a.m. and Munson, Newbury, Middlefield and Concord fire departments were contact ed for assistance, Geiss said in the release, adding Burton and Hambden fire depart ments were also dispatched as automatic aid.

“The barn was confirmed to be unoccu pied and no injuries to humans or animals were reported,” he said in the release.

“Due to severe weather conditions, frigid temperatures and the lack of a sustainable water supply, the deep-seated fire proved difficult to extinguish.”

Crews operated on the scene until ap proximately 9:30 a.m., the chief said, add ing the cause of the fire remains under in vestigation at this time.

Avoiding using an extension cord with space heaters;

Using only one heating appliance per out let;

Having working smoke detectors on ev ery level of the home.

“Additionally, with snow accumulation increasing, it is important to ensure your fur nace exhaust remains clear of obstruction,” Geiss said. “Many modern high-efficiency furnaces vent through the side of the home rather than the roof and can become blocked by drifting snow.”

Chagrin Road Fire

out and we got there really quick,” she said, adding the fire in the dryer may have been caused by a vent pipe clogged with lint and was easily and quickly extinguished.

Around the same time, Bainbridge Township crews were dispatched to a residential fire on Chagrin Road, said Fire Chief Lou Ann Metz.

Damage was limited to the dryer, vent and clothing in a basket, with some minor smoke damage, Metz said, adding it could have been much worse.

“Working smoke detectors in the residence saved the family’s lives,” she said.

Working a fire in freezing temperatures makes the job significantly more difficult, he said.

Vatty praised the sheriff's office dispatchers for their efforts and offered additional safety reminders for residents: call your local fire department to arrange for free smoke detector installation and, if you notice smoke or a fire, exit the building immediately.

ke and Brandon Davis discuss road garage plans Jan. 22.

NOACA

from page 1

The revision disqualified Spidalieri’s longtime alternate, Skip Claypool, from continuing that role.

It also allows Geauga County to fill one of its three seats with the county engineer rather than a commissioner.

Claypool filed a lawsuit this month in the Geauga County Court of Common Pleas against Brakey, Dvorak and NOACA, alleging the changes are illegal and accusing the commissioners of violating Ohio’s Open Meetings Act.

Brakey previously objected to Claypool serving as an alternate, citing sexual misconduct allegations from 2014 during an early January meeting before NOACA member counties voted on the bylaw changes.

The issue came to a head at the Jan. 22 meeting, when Claypool and a large crowd of residents urged commissioners not to ratify the changes.

Several residents said they would like to see Geauga County withdraw from NOACA, arguing the organization primarily serves Cuyahoga County’s interests.

“I don’t understand why, outside of personal vendettas and malice, the county would acquiesce to allocating its responsibilities and authority, to a great degree, to NOACA,” said Steve Oluic, chair of the Geauga County Board of Mental Health and Recovery Services and Dvorak’s opponent in the 2026 election. “I believe the resolution presented today to ratify Article Four of the NOACA bylaws is not a wise decision. The article removes the right of the citizens to be represented by the three commissioners that were elected to be the representatives.”

The changes will likely remove Spidalieri — and by extension Claypool — from the board, despite Claypool being the only person who asks NOACA tough questions, Oulic said.

He urged commissioners to delay the vote and make greater efforts to educate the public about NOACA. Other residents echoed concerns that the county’s representation would be weakened.

Several residents referenced a letter from the Geauga County Planning Commission urging commissioners to explore options outside of NOACA. Others criticized the agency more broadly, with some calling it Marxist, accusing it of violating the county’s sovereignty, or calling it un-American and an example of taxation without representation.

Claypool said he has attended NOACA meetings since about 2010 and sees few representatives advocating for their counties.

“I oppose this ratification. It will be no surprise to this board, I think there are legal issues with the amendment for Article Nine and we’ll see what the courts say about that in a week,” he said, adding policies driven by Cleveland and Cuyahoga County harm Geauga County.

Claypool listed a $1,000,000 climate action plan, $100,000 paint job on a building and $60,000 hyperloop transportation system as examples of projects that should have been opposed.

“They continue to waste money and put it into bicycle trails and things that are not infrastructure, road and bridge projects, which is what their mandate is,” he said. “And now, they want to get into economic development and help steer Geauga County and the region economically.”

Brakey acknowledged some criticism of NOACA is fair, particularly that it is a board

Commissioners Trade Barbs Over Social Media

stAff report

Geauga County Commissioner Ralph Spidalieri endorsed Steve Oluic for commissioner the afternoon of Jan. 22.

The endorsement followed a meeting in which commissioners Jim Dvorak and Carolyn Brakey nominated Geauga County Engineer Andy Haupt to the Northeast Ohio Areawide Coordinating Agency instead of Spidalieri. The nomination passed on a split vote, with Spidalieri voting against it.

Oluic is challenging Dvorak for his county commissioner’s seat in the 2026 election.

“Over the last almost 14 years of serving as commissioner of Geauga County, I have always tried to remain neutral in campaigns and if I did endorse anyone, it was based on longterm relationships that I have had with various candidates, and always advised people to vote for them based on integrity and honesty,” Spidalieri wrote in a social media post. “We need to restore integrity in the position of commissioner and I fully endorse and support Steven Oluic for commissioner against Jim Dvorak.”

Spidalieri linked Oluic’s campaign Facebook page in his post, encouraging followers to share it in order to “put a commissioner in office that actually cares for the people and our county.”

Brakey responded to Spidalieri’s post on

of unelected, unaccountable bureaucrats.

“These changes give Geauga more autonomy regarding our seat and kind of put more of a pressure on including elected officials in those seats,” she said.

Spidalieri said he was elected to remain accountable to the public, and while he catches flack for not attending meetings, he believes Claypool has represented the county well.

Claypool has never failed Geauga County and asks the hard questions, he said.

Commissioners' vote to ratify the bylaw changes drew an audible outcry of disapproval from the audience.

Spidalieri questioned what the new board structure would be.

“The commissioners have three appointee seats,” Brakey replied. “So, we can decide who those members are.”

In response to Spidalieri motioning to make Claypool his alternate, Brakey explained no appointments had yet been made and commissioners would first need to take formal action to name representatives.

She then moved that she, Dvorak and Geauga County Engineer Andy Haupt be appointed to the three seats.

The motion passed 2-1, with Spidalieri voting no, again drawing boos from the crowd.

In a separate, split vote, commissioners also approved Department of Water Resources Director Nick Gorris, Deputy Design/ Planning Engineer Shane Hajjar and Chief Deputy Engineer Traci Salkiewicz as the three alternates.

During public comment, Claypool addressed the audience.

“I’m saddened to hear what I got to see, but the public gets to weigh this and there’s going to be an election coming up in May and one of the candidates is sitting here in this audience,” he said, gesturing toward Oluic.

her own Facebook page Jan. 23.

“It’s obviously in poor taste to openly endorse against a colleague and fellow county elected official. Normally, I try to stay outwardly neutral and let voters decide. That said, it’s also an open secret that there is a commissioner who very much wants to

become our next sheriff,” she said. “With that in mind, I am formally endorsing Commissioner Jim Dvorak for sheriff. It may not be the office he’s running for, and Geauga County Sheriff Scott A. Hildenbrand may not be up for reelection, but Commissioner Dvorak cracked the biggest smile when he stole the sheriff’s jacket this morning.”

“So, I hope that the public weighs what just occurred in their choice of the next county commissioner.”

was appointing unelected individuals, Brakey reiterated the bylaw changes increase the number of elected officials serving on NO ACA.

wanted to be a voting member representing the county, Dvorak said.

Dvorak said, adding Haupt is the best person to represent the county when it comes to roads and bridges.

Dvorak also defended the county’s financial participation in NOACA.

“As far as dollars and cents, we pay dues,” he said, citing $8,657 annually from the Geauga County Department of Water Resources.

“(The department) just received a grant ects),” Dvorak said. “That’s a pretty good

He added total county dues are about $39,000 annually, while the county receives roughly $500,000 each year for road and

“If that’s how Commissioner Dvorak felt, neer as his alternate and he would have been a voting member in NOACA anyways, and I could have continued to keep my seat and my position also,” he said.

Brakey said the NOACA board of directors — made up of public officials throughout Northeast Ohio — overwhelmingly supported the changes.

Auburn Faces Federal Lawsuit Over Development Denial

By Ann WishArt Ann@kArlovecmediA com

Auburn Township Board of Zoning Appeals is facing a legal battle over a proposed development at the intersection of Ravenna Road/state Route 44 and U.S. Route 422, with the dispute now positioned for federal court after months of hearings in 2025.

On Nov. 28, 44East LLC filed an amended complaint in the U.S. District Court for the Northern District of Ohio, alleging the township unlawfully blocked plans for an auto service station at three commercially zoned parcels at the intersection.

Auburn Township has denied the allegations, asserting zoning officials “lawfully denied a zoning permit” within the authority granted by township regulations and Ohio law.

In early 2025, 44East applied for a zoning permit to develop more than 6 acres on the northeast corner of the intersection. Township Zoning Inspector Frank Kitko denied the application, concluding the proposal included prohibited tractor-trailer services.

44East principal Ron Dinardo argued his case in front of the BZA on May 13, 2025.

Kitko said initial plans indicated the auto service station and restaurant would be part of a truck stop with a weigh station, allowing tractor-trailers to park overnight and refuel.

BZA member Brian Stewart noted auto service is a conditional use and predicted a lengthy conflict between 44East and the board.

“This is just the beginning of seeing these gentlemen in front of us to get this all resolved,” he said.

44East later appealed the BZA’s May 13 decision to the Geauga County Court of Common Pleas.

During the hearing, Kitko said Dinardo’s alternate plan — which excluded a weigh station — would place the auto service station and restaurant on only one parcel. He added the parcels must be combined before a zoning permit can be issued.

Attorney Jordan Berns, representing

Commissioners

from page 6

“It wasn’t just the City of Cleveland. It wasn’t just Cuyahoga. It was Lorain County, it was Medina County, it was Lake County. It was — all the counties overwhelmingly approved the changes. I think the one change, there were only two people that objected, one of which was Mr. Claypool,” she said.

Oluic said credentials do not always measure character.

“If you were so intent on removing Skip via Ralph, why don’t you resign, Mr. Dvorak?” he asked. “You could have stepped back and gave your position up to the county engineer, but you went after Mr. Spidalieri to get rid of him to get to Skip Claypool.”

He said the decision was driven by personalities and egos, calling Brakey smug and her reaction to the public outrageous.

Brakey noted the planning commission letter suggested hiring an outside consultant to evaluate the county’s relationship with NOACA and said she would support that approach.

County Administrator Amy Bevan said she would make note of the request and the commissioners could revisit the letter.

44East, indicated the company would consolidate the parcels once a zoning permit is granted. Stewart responded that no permit would be issued until the lots are combined.

“You are looking for a zoning permit on a lot that does not exist,” BZA Chairman Robert Ford said before tabling the hearing.

The BZA reconvened a month later. During that session, Berns said the company had “taken to heart” the board’s reluctance to approve a truck stop and proposed a revised plan restricting overnight parking, consolidating the lots and complying with zoning requirements.

Kitko pointed out the lot consolidation was not reflected in the conditional use permit application.

“Combining the lots now is not fair to (the company),” Berns said, adding Dinardo would apply for consolidation before the use is implemented.

Board members raised concerns about the difficulty of selling the combined parcels if development did not occur and expressed uncertainty about a potential deal with a national company interested in the property.

The amended complaint outlines the company’s argument for federal court review, stating: “Beginning in early 2025, 44East has been in serious negotiations with a national company interested in acquiring the property ... Absent prompt relief, that opportunity will be lost and 44East will have suffered a loss in excess of $1 million.”

The complaint further alleges township officials relied on speculation rather than evidence, claiming they “refused 44East’s

efforts to develop an auto service station ... on the unfounded claim that 44East really intends to use the property for a truck stop.”

At a May 23 hearing, the BZA outlined conditions for approval, including prohibiting overnight tractor-trailer parking, banning lodging amenities, and requiring submission of additional permits and plans.

The board reviewed the conditional use request again in June and July. While Ford initially indicated a willingness to approve the application with conditions, the board voted

4-1 against the request July 8 after reviewing 13 proposed conditions.

Board members cited concerns about enforceability. The complaint notes the board stated that “revoking a conditional zoning certificate is not the way to enforce compliance.”

The complaint argues the denial was based on “fears of potential future violations” rather than evidence of intent to violate zoning laws.

No court date has been set.

ACC Secures Funds for Workforce Development

stAff report

Auburn Career Center has received $69,583 from the state to expand customized training and business consultation services for employers across Lake, Geauga and surrounding counties, the school announced in a Jan. 16 press release.

The funds, secured through the Ohio Department of Higher Education’s Center for Training Excellence Program, will allow the school to partner with local businesses to design job training programs. Priority areas currently include healthcare, manufacturing

and public safety, the press release said.

“This investment reinforces Auburn Career Center’s mission to serve as a regional hub for workforce development,” ACC Superintendent Joe Glavan said in the release. “By working directly with area employers — particularly in healthcare, manufacturing and public safety — we can help upskill the local workforce, strengthen business productivity and ensure training aligns with real, immediate workforce demands. This is about meeting employers where they are and helping our region remain competitive.”

ACC will offer services including work-

force needs assessments, customized training plans, curriculum development, job advancement strategies and continuous improvement support, according to the release.

“Auburn has a long history of partnering with employers to deliver high-quality, responsive training,” said ACC Director of Adult Education Michelle Rodewald. “These funds allow us to deepen those partnerships, customize training at the company level and support workers in advancing their skills … while helping employers attract, develop and retain talent.”

ANN WISHART/KMG

Three parcels on the corner of state Route 44 and U.S. Route 422 are the subject of a federal lawsuit between Auburn Township BZA and property owner 44East LLC.

Y.O.U.T.H. Program Gives Teens Keys to Safe Driving

By rose nemunAitis editor@kArlovecmediA com

Learning to drive is a rite of passage for many teens, marking a transition toward independence and responsibility.

With winter weather creating hazardous road conditions, that privilege also demands focus, maturity and a commitment to safe driving habits that protect drivers, passengers and the broader community.

In an effort to foster those safe habits, the Geauga County Sheriff’s Office, Munson Fire Department and Junction Auto Group held a Youth Orientation Under the Hood event Jan. 11 at Junction Buick GMC, 12423 Ravenna Road in Munson Township — drawing more than 50 teens from local schools, church organizations and county programs.

“We're hoping the young drivers will have, at least, one or two takeaways from the Y.O.U.T.H. auto clinic evening they can use in their driving life for many years to come,” said event organizer Shaun Woolard.

The first Y.O.U.T.H. event was held in 2019 and organizers hope to offer it more regularly.

“Junction is a fifth generation, family-owned dealer and we care deeply about our community of future generations of drivers,” Woolard said. “We all have to start somewhere with our vehicles, so we want this event to be informative for younger drivers and hopefully, it will help aid them in some way for the many different roads to ahead.”

According to the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, the risk of motor vehicle crashes is higher among teens ages 16 to 19 than among any other age group.

Y.O.U.T.H highlights strategies aimed at improving teen driver safety.

Teens rotated through three instructional stations, including one focused on safe driving practice and navigating winter road conditions.

The sheriff’s office has an Emergency

Vehicle Operations Course training program with four state-certified deputies serving as driving instructors, including Chief Deputy Tom Rowan and Deputy Dave Shaffer, who represented the sheriff’s office at the event.

“Always wear your seatbelt,” Shaffer said. Shaffer, who typically teaches high-speed vehicle dynamics and pursuit driving, focused his instruction on more practical topics for young drivers, including distracted driving, weather driving, crash avoidance, seatbelt use and how to check tire tread depth.

“Driving is a part of everyday life for most of us,” said sheriff’s Lt. James Jonovich. “It becomes second nature and a mundane task. However, it is a big responsibility. One mistake, one distraction can have life-changing consequences. Pay attention while driving and limit distractions. Prior to winter season, verify your tires are adequate. When faced with adverse weather, plan for your commute to take extra time and then take your time while driving. Arriving late is always the better option.”

Junction’s business office associates provided information about financial responsibility, including safeguarding credit and personal information. Service department staff shared basic vehicle maintenance tips, such as how to open the hood, add washer fluid and perform simple checks.

“I'm an ASE-certified technician and so proud to help show some Y.O.U.T.H.,” said Dylan Velek, a 23-year-old graduate of Maplewood Automotive Career Center.

Velek demonstrated how to check oil levels, refill windshield washer fluid and locate a spare tire or inflator kit.

Brooke Bourdeau, Geauga County Job and Family Services case worker and independent living coordinator, attended the event with two foster youths.

“I wanted to share that I really thought it was a great presentation,” Bourdeau said. “I liked how it was split into three smaller parts. As we all know, teens’ attention spans are short, so I thought that was helpful to keep them engaged. I thought it was very informative and focused on things that are helpful for the teens.”

Both teens said they especially appreciated the financial information, Bourdeau said.

“I definitely would be interested in bringing youth again next year if you have the event again,” Bourdeau said.

Mary Ann Fisher

Mary Ann Fisher passed away peace fully on Tuesday, Jan. 20, 2026.

Mary Ann mar ried Samuel D. Fish er on May 16, 1951, and together they were blessed with seven children: Kathy Coles (Jeff), Dan Fisher (Grace), Betty Cadle, Janet Lee, Bob Fisher (Robin), Tim Fisher and Paul Fisher (Tammy). She has 15 grandchildren and 24 great-grandchildren.

Mary Ann was a special homemaker who loved to crochet, work in her flower beds and was a wonderful baker. She loved animals and enjoyed feeding the birds.

She is affectionately remembered by her children for her unfailing love, devotion and support.

Mary Ann was laid to rest in a private family graveside service and the family plans a celebration of life for the spring.

Memories and condolences can be shared with the family at www.slyffh.com.

Bernard Marion Meyers

church occasion.

Behind the wheel of life, Bernie was a devoted family man. He leaves behind a pit crew that includes his loving wife, Mary Ann Hoover Meyers; his son, Bradley Bernard Meyers; his daughter, Sara Lamb Oviedo; his grandchildren, Edan Candido Oviedo, Nalani Asha Oviedo, Carlos Delano Oviedo; and his great-grandchild, Ash Andres Garcia. Each of them inherited Bernie's wit, warmth and capacity to love, ensuring that his legacy will continue to lap the track for generations.

As we bid farewell to a beloved man, let's honor his memory by living as he did—with kindness, and a touch of humor. Bernie Meyers, you have taken the checkered flag and what a glorious race it was. Rev those engines in heaven, good sir.

A memorial service will be held at 1 p.m. on Saturday, May 2, 2026, at St. Paul’s Episcopal Church, 623 Catawba Ave., Put in Bay, Ohio. Following the service, family will receive friends in the undercroft of the church.

Donations are requested to St. Paul’s Episcopal Church, 623 Catawba Ave., Put in Bay, OH 43456; Lake Erie Islands Conservancy, https://lakeerieislandsconservancy. org/; or Lake Erie Islands Historical Society, 443 Catawba Ave., Put in Bay, OH 43456.

Gina Hofstetter of Burton attended with her 15-year-old daughter, Addison “Addi” Hofstetter, a Berkshire High School freshman.

Arrangements are entrusted to the original Burr Funeral Home and Cremation Service. Online condolences and memories may be shared at www.burrservice.com.

Bernard Marion Meyers, known affectionately to friends and family as Bernie, embarked on his final joyride through the pearly gates on Jan. 24, 2026, after a spirited race with pneumonia. Born on July 8, 1941, in the quaint town of Hillsboro, Ohio, Bernie's zest for life revved up from the get-go.

Bernie's early years were spent in the rolling corn fields of Ohio, where he cultivated a love for animals and a knack for science, leading him to earn his B.S. in Animal Science from The Ohio State University.

His passion for service and country propelled him into the skies and beyond as he spent five years in the Air Force during the Vietnam Era, showcasing the same courage and dedication that he would later bring to every aspect of his life.

After his military service, Bernie started at Battelle Memorial Institute in the cancer screening program and then transitioned to a nuclear technician. Not one to be pigeonholed, he switched gears and became a truck driver, proving that whether it was electrons or eighteen-wheelers, he could handle anything with a cool head and a steady hand. In his later years, he became a PIB Tour train driver along with hauling stone for Fox Stone Products, sharing stories and laughs, with tourists and locals alike.

Bernie's commitment to his community was as steadfast as his love for racing sports cars. As Vice Commander and Adjutant of the PIB Legion, he served with a mix of solemnity and dedication. Always fulfilling his duties to ensure the stability and continuity of the Legion's mission.

A man with an unwavering moral compass, Bernie walked the Christian path with a kind demeanor. His church family will surely miss his amiable presence and the subtle humor that he brought to every

Susan Smith

Susan “Susie” Smith, age 89, of Chardon, Ohio, passed away peacefully on Jan. 14, 2026.

Susie was a wom an with a vibrant spirit and a love for life’s simple joys. In her younger years, she embraced adventure, enjoying flying and riding motorcycles, activities that reflected her independent nature and sense of fun.

Throughout her life, she especially cher ished the holidays, when family gatherings brought her the greatest happiness, as well as summer picnics filled with laughter, good food and time spent outdoors.

She was devoted to her family and is survived by her daughter, Cyndi Bradley; her two granddaughters, Nicole Rasmussen and Holly Hays; and her two great-grandchildren, Drake Rasmussen and Savanna Rasmussen, who brought her immense pride and joy.

Susie shared more than 50 years of companionship with her beloved boyfriend, William “Bill” Rogers. Their enduring relationship was built on deep friendship, loyalty and love.

She also treasured a lifelong friendship with Phillis Carroll, a bond that spanned more than 70 years and was a constant source of support, laughter and shared memories.

Susie will be remembered for her warmth, her love of family traditions and the meaningful connections she maintained throughout her life. She will be deeply missed and fondly remembered by all who knew and loved her.

Heutmaker Talks Historic Win, Plans for Future Projects

By emmA mAcniven mAcniven@kArlovecmediA com

After almost dropping out of the Russell Township trustee race last fall, Amy Heutmaker became the first trans woman elected to a municipal office in Ohio on Nov. 4.

She joins Dion Manley, of Gahanna, who won a school board seat in 2022, making him the first trans person to win a local election in the state.

On the morning of Sept. 10, 2025, Heutmaker woke up to a Facebook post in a group that doxxed her as a trans woman, alongside “horrific comments” and “death threats,” she recalled during a recent interview.

In the following days, she took down all her social media and considered quietly withdrawing from the race, discussing it with her father and wife.

“My dad said, ‘Don't you dare. You were thinking about this as a kid and you always came with me and voted, and you've been wanting to do this. Don't let the (naysayers) win,’” Heutmaker said.

The 53-year-old grew up in White Bear Lake, Minn., a suburb of St. Paul, before moving around the country and eventually to Rochester, NY. She moved to Russell Township in 2024 with her wife and stepdaughter. She also has two children of her own, who live in Rochester.

Outside of her trustee duties, Heutmaker is a mental health therapist specializing in addiction.

As she recalled what initially led her down the road to run for office, Heutmaker said she noticed a lot of abandoned homes in her neighborhood, which stood out to her as a former firefighter.

“This is a really nice subdivision,” she had thought. “Why are there so many vacant buildings?”

Heutmaker began attending Geauga Democratic Party meetings in early 2025, where she realized she could take more action than simply attending meetings.

“A lot of people that I know were disappointed with the 2024 election and instead of just scratching my head and saying, ‘What could have been done?’ I decided to take action and get involved,” she reflected.

Driving

from page 8

"I had no idea that a check engine light was a thing but after today, I now know how to look under the hood without feeling totally lost,” Addi said. “It’s a lot less intimidating to start driving when you know how to handle a flat tire or an oil change yourself instead of just hoping for the best on the side of the road. I am thrilled to start driving, as it grants me the independence to participate more fully in Chardon's Curtain 440 theatre group while finally retiring my mom from ‘Uber duty.’”

Her mother said she was equally grateful for the opportunity.

“As a parent of a soon-to-be teen driver, I cannot begin to express my gratitude to our sheriff’s office, Junction Auto Group and the many first responders for providing this amazing opportunity for our children,” Gina said. “Their efforts are the true definition of ‘community’ coming together to support our local teens.”

the race when she heard of longtime Trustee Jim Mueller’s retirement.

threats on social media, she decided to stay the course.

“I stuck with it and I doubled down on my website and my blog, and started making more phone calls, got more volunteers and (candidate John Ishii) and I ended up at the recycling center every Saturday — late September through the election,” she said. “We talked to tons and tons of people, and I think the messages that we put out and the mailings that we put out resonated with lots of people and I think that proved through my election.”

Heutmaker emphasized she takes her role as trustee very seriously.

“People take for granted local government, but it's the level of government that's closest to you, where you live,” Heutmaker said. “This is the most important one. This is the property taxes, this is the police, this is the fire, these are the roads, these are the zoning, things that affect you on a day to day basis.”

When it came down to it, the community focused on the issues Heutmaker ran her

in mind,” Heutmaker said. “I think (Trustee Chris) Hare and I worked the hardest on the campaign trail and I think that's why we were elected.”

Heutmaker said she has received congratulations not only from local residents, friends and colleagues, but also from prominent LGBTQ+ leaders nationwide, she said.

“(Retired) Lt. Col. Bree Fram of the United States Space Force reached out to me … on Christmas night,” Heutmaker said.

Fram was removed from the U.S. Space Force by a 2025 executive order banning transgender people from military service, Heutmaker noted.

She was also featured in The Buckeye Flame, Ohio’s largest LGBTQ+ news publication. The story was shared more than 9,000 times on Facebook and drew attention from the Human Rights Campaign, which highlighted her on social media.

“I ran on issues that were important to the community and no matter what peo-

lief for seniors and how we can work with our county partners to make that happen. And, you know, how we can increase the visibility of township government and get more people into the process. And that's what I focus on. I never once have said on my blog or any place else. ‘Hey, I'm a trans woman. Vote for me.’ That will never be me. That's not the way I operate my life.”

Looking ahead, Heutmaker said she plans to tackle vacant properties, help seniors who are being taxed out of their homes remain in them, and monitor ongoing property tax issues in the state.

“I'm honored that the residents have trusted me with this position to be one of the trustees, and I don't take that for granted,” Heutmaker said. “My goal is just to try and make the best decisions for the township. Everybody's not going to agree with me all the time, but I hope everybody can see that I am trying to make the best decision for everybody in the township.”

Chardon Eagles Host Evening of Gratitude

Aerie #2261 Donates to County Fire Departments

By rose nemunAitis editor@kArlovecmediA com

As another round of cold, winter weather moved into Geauga County, the Chardon Fraternal Order of Eagles brought some warmth with an Evening of Gratitude.

Demonstrating its motto of “People Helping People,” the CFOE Aerie #2261 honored local firefighters for their service Jan. 23 at 317 Water Street, presenting checks for $2,500 to each of the county’s 14 fire departments.

“Thank you, brave firefighters,” said Mark Coley, secretary of Aerie #2261, who organized the event with his wife, DD Coley, an auxiliary member and officer.

The evening began with a public fish fry, followed by a brief presentation recognizing fire chiefs and department representatives.

The FOE is an international nonprofit

man, John F. Kennedy and Ronald Reagan.

“This is the first time we reached out to all 14 fire departments in Geauga County,” Mark said. “This is a way for our Aerie to give back to the fire departments who keep our cities safe and show our appreciation and gratitude for their work. Auburn, Bainbridge, Burton, Chardon, Chesterland, Hambden, Middlefield, Montville, Munson, Newbury, Parkman, Russell, Thompson and Troy are the departments we are honoring.”

He said the organization supports police and fire departments and various charities at the local and state levels.

“The FOE is a brotherhood and sisterhood who support each other and the community at large,” Mark said.

Chardon Fire Chief Justin Geiss thanked the organization for its generosity.

“This support represents far more than financial assistance — it reflects the strong partnership between the fire department and the community we proudly serve,” Geiss said.

tives that are not always fully funded through

“Support from organizations like the Chardon FOE directly strengthens our ability to deliver a high level of emergency service to the residents of Chardon City, Chardon Township and Claridon Township,” Geiss said. “This generous contribution serves as a meaningful reminder that our community stands firmly behind its first responders. The Chardon Fire Department values its ongoing relationship with the Chardon FOE and commends their continued commitment to protecting lives and property throughout our community.”

Hambden Township Assistant Fire Chief Dave Peterson also expressed appreciation.

“The generous donations from the Eagles to all Geauga County fire departments will help make the county safer and enhance all of our capabilities,” Peterson said. “It further solidifies our belief that Geauga County is a great community to serve. The continuous support from the Eagles to public safety agencies in Geauga County is truly a testament to their commitment to the community and exemplifies their motto of ‘People Helping People.’”

The organization also held a basket raffle to begin raising funds for the Richter family, whose home was damaged in a recent fire.

According to a post on the organization’s Facebook page, one side of the home was destroyed, including the bedroom of the family’s 12-year-old son, who lost clothing, toys, Pokémon cards and Christmas gifts.

“He is on the autism spectrum and this loss has been especially hard,” the post said.

DD Coley said supporting the family is especially important because they are members of the organization.

“We are overwhelmed by the support of the Geauga community in donating items for their young son,” she said.

Two large items — a grill with a smoker and a 55-inch television — will be raffled off next month.

“We will continue to sell raffle tickets for those items until Feb. 14, when we hold our prime rib dinner,” DD said. “We are hoping the public will purchase dinner tickets and join us for this special raffle. The Aerie is membership only and if you would like to join and support our community any of our members would be willing to talk about membership.”

Newbury Looks Into Updating Website with ADP

stAff report

Newbury Township Trustees are seeking a more modern website, potentially with assistance from the Geauga County Automatic Data Processing board.

ADP Board Chief Deputy Administrator Frank Antenucci outlined the board’s capabilities during the trustees’ Jan. 21 meeting.

The township currently uses Cassidy Web Creations, of Chester Township, Fiscal Officer Lindsay Pollock previously said.

Trustee Carly Sayre raised the idea of renovating the township’s website at the Jan. 7 meeting, noting the township also received a proposal from a company in Michigan.

“We're trying to keep it kind of at least local, to either Geauga or Newbury,” she added Jan. 21.

ADP works with a local vendor, called Company 119, of Chardon, which has developed websites for both Bainbridge and Ches-

ter townships’ websites, Antenucci said.

“If you've seen the county’s Geauga connected system — whether it be Bainbridge Township or the county auditor or ADP or the commissioners — they're all using that same infrastructure,” he said. “And then you tailor to what you want, color scheme, data and content.”

ADP currently hosts 26 websites on its “secured server,” Antenucci added.

“Because 26 others have gone before you, you get a complete website built for in the thousands of dollars instead of what Bainbridge Township paid four years ago, which I think was $20,000,” he said.

Sayre emphasized the need for a new website to provide an updated virtual calendar system and easy access to meeting minutes, she said.

“(I’d like) another couple weeks,” she said. “I want to look at any other websites and stuff like that, if that's okay.”

Bainbridge Township’s current website Jan. 21.

S P O R T S

1-3-1 Key to Bombers Victory Over Wolverines

By AlAn kornspAn sports@kArlovecmediA com

The Kenston Bombers Boys basketball team is off to a great start this season under the leadership of veteran head coach Josh Jakacki.

After coaching the Bombers Boys Basketball Team for eight seasons and winning multiple conference championships, Jakacki, a teacher at Kenston Middle School, left to coach the Crestwood Red Devils in 2015.

Fast forward to the 2025-2026 season and Coach Jakacki has returned to lead the Bombers Boys Basketball Team.

With Coach Jakacki on the sidelines, the Bombers have started the season 12-2 after improving from 11-12 in 2024-2025.

The Bombers continued their winning ways on Jan. 20 and Jan. 23 as they picked up wins number 11 and 12 by defeating the West Geauga Wolverines, 79-77 and the South Rebels, 74-49.

On Jan 20, the Bombers hosted the Wolverines in a highly intense contest that came down to the final seconds.

The first half saw the Bombers and Wolverines race up and down the court as the Bombers got out to a 47-40 lead.

The contest remained high energy and fast paced after intermission as the Wolverines outscored the Bombers 23-17 to get within one point going into the fourth quarter.

The Wolverines came out strong in the final quarter, quickly scoring five points on a

Basketball • Page 13

Bombers Poised to Make Run to Baron Cup

AlAn kornspAn

sports@kArlovecmediA com

For Kenston Bombers Hockey, this season has been about preparing to defend their first Baron Cup Championship.

In order to do that, the Bombers have focused on improving throughout the season.

The Bombers began the 2025-2026 season with two early victories, but then dealt with the ups and downs of two losing streaks as they were 4-10-1 midway through the season.

However, since the start of the new year the Bombers are playing good hockey as they are 4-3-1 in their last eight games.

Bombers Head Coach Tom Moores said that he has seen a lot of improvement.

“We were on a good curve until tonight (a 4-2 loss to Strongsville on Jan. 23),” Coach Moores said. “We’re definitely going in the right direction, we've got a plan. Our goal all year is to build for the Baron Cup, that's why you play.”

He continued: “I thought the last few games we've improved in areas that we needed to. Tonight (against Strongsville) we took a little bit of a step back, (but) we didn't quit, so I am proud of the kids for that.”

Added senior captain J.C. Pustai, “(The past few games) have definitely been a learning curve.”

“I've seen the effort getting better, we’re pushing ourselves. Defensively, we have really progressed and I think that's shown with our scores, keeping pucks out of the front of the net, and keeping it low. Tonight (against Strongsville), we just couldn't pull through (offensively). We played great defensively.”

Although the Bombers lost to the Strongsville Mustangs, 4-2 on Jan. 23 at the Pond, they won the two preceding games on Jan. 18 and Jan. 22.

On Jan. 18, the Bombers traveled to North Olmsted where they defeated their rival, the Chagrin Falls Tigers, 6-5, in the Battle of 422 via 480.

ALAN KORNSPAN/KMG

Kenston’s Kahlil Hinton, right, had six points in the team’s win 79-77 comeback win against West Geauga. The Wolverines Ryan Mobley is challenging the shot.

ALAN KORNSPAN/KMG

Kenston’s Reece Newpher during the faceoff against Strongsville Jan. 23.

Basketball

from page 12

three pointer by Luke Ottman and a layup by Cooper Paskowski as they took a 68-64 lead.

After a layup by Mason Pesho and two made free throws by Ottman, the Wolverines led by eight points, 72-64, with 6:45 left to go in the game.

But motivation, communication, and a key strategic coaching decision would propel the Bombers to victory.

Bombers sophomore Luke Stupica said that the 9-0 run by the Wolverines to start the fourth quarter motivated the Bombers.

“That really made us want to win it more since we were down,” Stupica said. “That was like our first big deficit towards the end of the game, so we just started getting steals and got buckets.”

Added sophomore Ethan Burge, “It was the players picking each other up on the floor and talking on defense.”

After the Wolverines 9-0 run, over the next 3:39 of game time, the Bombers regained the momentum and went on a 11-2 run. With 3:16 left in the game, Burge put the Bombers up 75-74 after knocking down a free throw.

In addition to the Bombers players’ increased motivation and focus on communicating effectively, Coach Jakacki said that a big reason for the 11-2 run was the Bombers decision to move to 1-3-1 zone defense.

Coach Jakacki explained that normally the Bombers play man to man defense which tries to force their opponent to play fast and make quick decisions, often leading to turnovers.

During the remainder of the fourth quarter, Coach Jakacki said that the defensive adjustment to a 1-3-1 led the Wolverines to play at a slower pace and over dribble.

“We forced them to slow down a little bit, they weren't as comfortable in the half court,” Coach Jakacki said. “They had to make decisions, pass the ball side top side and we were able to get some deflections. They started over dribbling a little bit. It tends to happen when you are not used to seeing the 1-3-1.”

He added: “At that point they were covering us up in the man and that slight adjustment I think gave us the advantage we needed late, and fortunately there was enough time on the clock for us to do that.”

After Burge put the Bombers up by one, the Bombers’ Kahlil Hinton got a crucial steal in the paint. Hinton quickly dribbled to

Hockey from page 12

In defeating the Tigers, the Bombers took an early 1-0 lead after the first period. They then extended their lead to 5-2 at the end of the 2nd.

The Tigers did not give up though, as they rallied for 3, third period goals. However, the Bombers got a game winning goal by Pustai.

Towards the end of the contest Newpher said that the Bombers slowed down a little with the lead which allowed the Tigers to come back in the third period.

“We thought we had a comfortable lead and we all just started slowing down a little bit,” Newpher said. “They got two quick ones and momentum. And then me and John knew that we had to go out there and go score another one to seal the game, and that's what we did.”

Newpher said that the Bombers were

After the Wolverines made a cross court pass, Paskowski made a nice catch and shoot three pointer with 1:26 left in the game to make the score 79-77.

With 52 seconds left, Paskowski got a steal, setting up the Wolverines for a chance to take the lead or tie the game.

However in playing for the last shot, the Bombers got a steal and the Wolverines quickly fouled sending the Bombers to the free throw line.

happy to get the victory over their rival.

“We came out with the victory (against Chagrin) and that was kind of what we were looking for,” Newpher said.

Against the Tigers, the Bombers were led by seniors Newpher and Pustai who both had 4 points (2 goals, 2 assists) and sophomore Nicholas Niazov who also had 4 points (2 goals, 2 assists).

Then, the Bombers followed up their win over the Tigers with a 4-3 victory over the Kent Roosevelt Rough Riders on Jan. 22 at Kent State Ice Arena.

In the contest against the Rough Riders,

both free throws giving the Wolverines a final opportunity to tie the game or take the lead.

With three seconds left, the Wolverines got an open look from behind the arc in the right corner. But the shot was too strong and caromed off the rim and the ball was deflected by the Wolverines as time expired.

For the game against the Wolverines leading the Bombers offensively were Stupica (24 points), Burge (19), Yates (12), Hinton (6),

Coach Moores felt that the Bombers played their best game of the season. In particular, he emphasized that the Bombers did a good job maintaining possession of the puck and competing with great effort all over the ice.

“(The victory over the Rough Riders) was definitely one of the highlights of the season,” Coach Moores said. “It was just a complete game, it was a really good game. We competed all over the ice and we kept control of the puck in their end for quite a while.”

Added Pustai, “We played great last night (against Kent). I think that was definitely the best hockey we've played. We've had tough

The Wolverines were led offensively by Ottman (18 points), Paskowski (18), Finn Keenan (13), Vince Vecchio (12), Pesho (7), Tyler Fink (5) and Ryan Mobley (4).

The Bombers followed their victory over the Wolverines with a dominating 74-49 victory over the South Rebels on Jan. 23. Against South, three Bombers scored in double figures including Yates (14 points), Burge (13) and Hinton (10).

battles with them throughout the whole year and last night we finally pulled away, and beat them.”

Pustai said that the Bombers did a good job on their power plays and moved the puck well against the Rough Riders.

In fact, Pustai scored both of his goals on power plays. His goals were scored in the five hole, and in the top right corner.

Leading the Bombers offensively in their victory over the Rough Riders was senior Charlie McBride (4 points - 1 goal, 3 assists), J.C. Pustai (2 points - 2 goals), Niazov ( 1 point - 1 goal), Graham Crawford (1 point - 1 assist), Nick Macias (1 point - 1 assist) and Trey Wieland (1 point - 1 assist).

As the season continues, Pustai said that he is looking forward to defending the Bombers’ Baron Cup Championship.

“(Looking forward to) showing everybody up,” Pustai said. “Letting them know that we are the reigning Baron Cup Champs. And we got something to prove.”

Eli Ellis (5), Pierce Brown (5), Adam Barr (5) and Jared Lechak (3).

KOC Free Throw Championship

On Jan. 12, students from St. Helen School took part in round one of the Knights of Columbus Free Throw Championship, a long-standing youth program that has encouraged sportsmanship and healthy competition since 1972.

The event provides boys and girls ages 9–14 an opportunity to test their basketball

skills while learning the values of fairness, effort and respect. Participants compete within their age and gender groups, with the chance to advance from the local level to district, regional and even state competitions.

St. Helen’s event was made possible thanks to the support and service of parish Knights Art Oleksiak and Nick Gorris, whose dedication helped make the day a fun and meaningful experience for all involved.

Chardon

the average speed of the projectiles launched

Their goal was to create a “castle wall” out of 25 paper cups. The walls had to be at least one foot tall and each cup had to be

After the walls were constructed, the students used their catapults to launch ping pong balls at their classmates' castle walls,

West Geauga

ceived board approval during the 2024-25 school year to install a beehive on campus in partnership with Youth Bee Works. Since then, students have been actively involved in caring for the hive, culminating in the club’s first honey extraction this fall.

The harvest yielded 44 four-ounce jars of honey and one pound of beeswax. The honey sold out at the club’s first event, and the club looks forward to introducing beeswax lip balm to the market soon. Proceeds from sales have been reinvested in additional bee suits and supplies, and the club is eager to continue growing the program, with hopes of adding another hive in the future.

Little Wolverines Preschool

The new West Geauga Little Wolverines Preschool opened its doors to the community’s youngest learners in the fall. The preschool classroom is fully integrated within Westwood Elementary School, which also serves students in kindergarten through sec-

intendent Amy Davis. “Our mission was to design a program that provides exceptional care and creates an environment where every student can thrive.”

The Ohio Department of Children & Youth recently awarded the Little Wolverines Preschool a gold rating, the highest tier of early learning achievement through Ohio’s Step Up to Quality program. The distinction reflects West Geauga’s ongoing commitment to maintaining high standards of education at every level. From staffing and curriculum to classroom furnishings and technology, every detail was thoughtfully planned to ensure the new preschool program is able to meet the diverse needs of each child served.

“The Little Wolverines Preschool has been a wonderful addition to Westwood Elementary,” said Principal Megan Watson. “We are thrilled to offer a program that provides strong early learning experiences and a smooth transition into the kindergarten classroom. Receiving the Gold Award reflects the high-quality learning our staff is commit-

ted to providing for our children and their families.”

Little Wolverines Preschool continues to expand opportunities for families in the community.

Anyone with a child interested in joining the Little Wolverines Preschool Program for the 2026-27 school year as a Peer Model may sign up on the Westwood Elementary Preschool page on the district website to attend the Preschool Peer Screen taking place on Feb. 13.

New Student Registration

West Geauga recently hosted its first-ever elementary school open house for prospective new families. For those who could not attend and would like more information, visit www.westg.org or call 440-729-5900.

Kindergarten and new student registration begins online Feb. 19 for the 2026-27 school year.

Youth Baseball Clinic

The West Geauga High School baseball coaching staff and players hosted a well-attended youth baseball clinic over winter break for students in kindergarten through sixth grade. Young athletes rotated through stations focused on baserunning, infield and

outfield skills, pitching and hitting, gaining hands-on instruction from the high school team. The clinic provided a fun and engaging opportunity for its participants to build fundamentals, learn from role models and grow their excitement for the game.

West G Athletic Events

West Geauga High School recently hosted its first Dual During School, bringing competitive wrestling to the end of the school day. Organized by Athletic Director Brandon Stewart and head wrestling coach Joe Joltin, the event featured duals against Trinity and gave students the opportunity to support the team on its home mats.

The West Geauga girls basketball team also took part in a special experience, traveling to Rocket Arena to compete in the Cavaliers High School Showcase. It was a fun day of basketball for the team and an amazing opportunity to play on the Cavaliers’ home floor.

In a full day of events, West Geauga traveled to Hawken on Jan. 10 for Swoopfest. Middle school boys and girls basketball and wrestling opened the event, followed by high school swimming, wrestling, and boys and girls basketball. Donations from the event benefited the Cleveland Foodbank.

Members of the West G Bees Club pose with school board members after presenting an up

Geauga SWCD Organizes For the District’s 82nd Year

suBmitted

The Geauga Soil and Water Conservation District’s (SWCD) Board of Supervisors selected officers and committees for the coming year.

Serving as volunteers, the five-member board of supervisors sets the direction for the district and makes important conservation decisions for the community. Board members are elected to serve staggered, three-year terms and are granted specific powers under Chapter 1515 of the Ohio Revised Code.

Geauga SWCD was organized in 1944 and remains committed to its mission of “conserving, protecting, and enhancing the soil and water resources of Geauga County by providing leadership, education, and assistance to all.”

Tracy Engle and Jeff Huntsberger were each elected to a three-year term starting Jan. 1 and sworn into office in January. All board members will assume the same responsibilities for the upcoming year as they had in their previous terms and will continue charting the course for natural resources management in Geauga County.

three-year terms in January by board supervisor and fiscal agent Dee Belew during the board’s annual reorganization meeting.

Jeff Huntsberger, of Munson Township, will be board chair; Robert Lausin, of Thompson Township, will be vice chair; Tracy Engle, of Auburn Township, will serve as secretary; Mary Slingluff, of Hambden Township, will be treasurer; and Dee Belew, of Auburn Township, will serve as fiscal agent to the board.

Health & Wellness

Bloodmobile

The American Red Cross is facing a severe blood shortage, and individuals are urged to give now so patients don’t face delays in lifesaving care. The shortage is especially serious for platelets and types O, A negative and B negative blood. Donation appointments may be made by downloading the free Red Cross Blood Donor app, visiting RedCrossBlood.org or calling 1-800-733-2767.

Feb. 4, Bainbridge Library, 17222 Snyder Road, Bainbridge Township, 10 a.m. to 3 p.m.

Feb. 5, Centerville Mills, 8558 Crackel Road, Bainbridge Township, 12-6 p.m.

Feb. 5, Middlefield Library, 16167 East High St., Middlefield, 12-6 p.m.

Feb. 6, Geauga YMCA, 12460 Bass Lake Road, Munson Township, 9 a.m. to 2 p.m.

Feb. 12, Munson Town Hall, 12210 Auburn Road, Munson Township, 12-6 p.m.

Feb. 18, Adam Hall, 11455 E. Washington St., Auburn Township, 10 a.m. to 3 p.m.

Feb. 22, Church of St. Mary, 401 North St., Chardon, 8 a.m. to 2 p.m.

Bulletin Board

For-profit and nonprofit organizations or groups will need to purchase a paid advertisement for an event anytime tickets are sold, a fee is charged or a freewill donation is taken. If an organization or group does not wish to buy an ad to promote their event and connect with our readers, Karlovec Media Group will print a simple liner-type ad identifying the event, date/time/place and a number to call for more information. Email submissions to: cbb@karlovecmedia.com

Food Pantry Open

Jan. 30, 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.

Appalachian Spring Concert

Jan. 31, 4-5:30 p.m.

Snowbelt Symphony Orchestra presents “Appalachian Spring,” featuring conductor Greg Hillis and soloists Alan Miller and John Paul Leopold, of The Stars of Summer International Piano Competition, at Chardon United Methodist Church.

Tickets are $25 for adults and $10 for students. For information, call 440-2969610 or visit snowbeltmusical.org.

Chardon VFW Pancake Breakfasts

Sundays, 8 a.m. to noon

Chardon VFW Post 6519 is serving its annual pancake breakfasts every Sunday, Feb. 1 through March 29, 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 440-2853699 for carryout orders.

Young of Heart

Feb. 6, 11:30 a.m.

Geauga Young of Heart will meet at St. Anselm Church in Chester Township. Refreshments will be provided. The program, “Bee Like Honey,” will explore bees and include a honey tasting.

Dues for 2026 must be paid by the end February to be listed in the membership directory. Anyone who is 55 or older and a resident of Geauga County is welcome to join. Meetings are canceled if the West Geauga Schools are closed because of weather; members will not receive a call.

Genealogical Society Meets

Feb. 10, 7-8:30 p.m.

Alan Jones will present “Using AI and Other Genealogy Innovations” via Zoom at the next meeting of the Geauga County Genealogical Society. He will discuss major innovations that help with family research. The program begins after a brief business meeting. Registration is required; visit gcgsoh.org.

FGP Offers Scholarships to Seniors

The Foundation for Geauga Parks (FGP) is offering $10,000 in scholarships to graduating high school seniors who live in or attend school in Geauga County and plan to pursue studies in nature- or environment-related fields.

Applications for the FGP Conservation Scholarship Program are open through Feb. 27. Individual awards are typically $1,000 or $2,000.

Eligible applicants must graduate in spring 2026, have a cumulative GPA of 2.8 or higher, plan to attend an accredited twoor four-year college, university, or career or technical institute in fall 2026, and intend to major in a nature- or environmental-related field.

More information and the online application are available at foundationforgeaugaparks.org.

Geauga Public Library

Library Program Examines Property Tax Impact

The Geauga County Public Library, Geauga County Auditor’s Office and the League of Women Voters of Geauga will host a free, in-person educational series in spring 2026 examining how property taxes function and how their possible abolishment could affect local government, schools and community services.

Titled “Property Tax Changes: What It Means for Public Services, Schools, and Geauga County,” the moderated program will feature local elected officials and gov-

ernment representatives discussing how property taxes operate in Geauga County, what services they fund, what service changes could look like if property taxes are abolished and alternative funding options for services if property taxes are eliminated. Audience questions will be accepted during each session.

Programs are open to the public and require free registration at geaugalibrary.libcal.com. Dates and locations include: Feb. 25, 6:30–8 p.m., Bainbridge Branch; March 10, 6:30–8 p.m., Geauga County Administrative Office Building, Chardon; and April 7, 7–8:30 p.m., Middlefield Branch.

Robert Lausin, vice chair; Mary Slingluff, treasurer; Jeff Huntsberger, board chair; Dee Belew, fiscal agent; and Tracy Engle, secretary.

Legal Notices

Sheriff’s Sale of Real Estate General Code, Sec. 11661 Revised Code, Sec. 2329.26 Case No. 17-F-000372

The State of Ohio, County of Geauga, ss: WELLS FARGO BANK, N.A., SUCCESSOR BY MERGER TO WACHOVIA MORTGAGE FSB, FKA WORLD SAVINGS BANK, FSB, Plaintiff vs. CARYL MAHVI, ET AL., Defendants

In pursuance of an Alias Order of Sale in the above entitled action, I will offer for sale at public auction, at https://geauga.sheriffsaleauction.ohio.gov/, on Thursday, the 12th day of February, 2026, at 10:00 o’clock A.M., and if the parcel does not receive a sufficient bid, it shall be offered for sale, without regard to the minimum bid requirement, at the same time of day and at the same place of the first sale, on Thursday, the 26th day of February, 2026 the following described real estate, situated in the County of Geauga and State of Ohio, and in the Township of Russell to wit:

Parcel No. 1

Situated in the Township of Russell, County of Geauga, and State of Ohio: and known as being Sublot No 14 in the Red Raider Trails Subdivision Amended of part of Original Russell Township Lots Nos. 4, 5 and 6, Tract No. 1 and part of Lots Nos. 1, 10 and 11, Tract No. 2, Section No. 14 as shown by the recorded plat in Plat Book 13, Page 47 of Geauga Map Records be the same more or less but subject to all legal highways.

Parcel No. 2

Situated in the Township of Russell, County of Geauga, and State of Ohio: and known as being a parcel of land in the Red Raider Subdivision of Original Russell Township Lots Nos. 4, 5 and 6, Tract No. 1 and part of Lots Nos. 1, 10 and 11, Tract No. 2, Section 11, as shown by the recorded plat in Book 13, Pages 47-50, in the Geauga County Map Records, being further described as follows:

Beginning at the intersection of the Northerly line of Sublot No. 14 with the Easterly line of Shire Court, 60 feet wide;

Thence South 82° 19’ 13” East along said Northerly line, a distance of 424.73 feet to a point;

Thence North 4° 32’ 31” East, a distance of 187.50 feet to a point;

Thence South 89° 16’ 36” West, a distance of 446.84 feet to a point on said Easterly line of Shire Court;

Thence South 5° 3’ 43” East along said along said Easterly line of Shire County, a distance of 125.00 feet to the Place of Beginning and containing 1.5250 Acres of Land as surveyed by Hedrick & Associates, Inc., December 1983, be the same more or less but subject to all legal highways.

Property Address: 14611 Shire Court, Novelty, OH 44072

Prior Deed Reference: Volume 1170 Page 301 re-recorded as Volume 1178 Page 891

Said Premises Located at: 14611 SHIRE COURT, RUSSELL TOWNSHIP, OH. INSIDE APPRAISAL COMPLETED

Permanent Parcel Number: 26-195731, 26195732

DEPOSIT: Pursuant to O.R.C. 2329.211, the required deposit for this offering shall be $10,000.00. Said deposit shall be paid by WIRE TRANSFER of ACH DEBIT TRANSFER with https://geauga.sheriffsaleauction. ohio.gov.

The purchaser shall be responsible for those costs, allowances, and taxes that the proceeds of the sale are insufficient to cover.

Said Premises appraised at ($1,300,000.00) and cannot be sold for less than two-thirds of that amount ($866,667.00). Please note: The appraisals are based on an exterior appraisal of property only, unless otherwise noted.

TERMS OF SALE: The FULL purchase price shall be paid to the Sheriff within thirty (30) days from the date of confirmation of sale, and on failure to do so, the purchaser may be held in contempt of court, the court may forfeit the sale and/or deposit, or the court may issue any other order it sees fit.

SCOTT A. HILDENBRAND, Sheriff Geauga County, Ohio Paul M. Nalepka, attorney Jan15-22-29, 2026

Sheriff’s Sale of Real Estate General Code, Sec. 11661 Revised Code, Sec. 2329.26

Case No. 19-F-000667

The State of Ohio, County of Geauga, ss: DEUTSCHE BANK NATIONAL TRUST COMPANY, AS TRUSTEE, ON BEHALF OF THE HOLDERS THE WAMU MORTGAGE PASS-THROUGH CERTIFICATES, SERIES 2005-AR6, Plaintiff vs. BRENDA HENDERSON, AS HEIR TO THE ESTATE OF MARSHALL D. HENDERSON, ET AL., Defendants

In pursuance of an Alias Order of Sale in the above entitled action, I will offer for sale at public auction, at https://geauga.sheriffsaleauction.ohio.gov/, on Thursday, the 12th day of February, 2026, at 10:00 o’clock A.M., and if the parcel does not receive a sufficient bid, it shall be offered for sale, without regard to the minimum bid requirement, at the same time of day and at the same place of the first sale, on Thursday, the 26th day of February, 2026 the following described real estate, situated in the County of Geauga and State of Ohio, and in the Township of Chester to wit:

Situated in the Township of Chester, County of Geauga and State of Ohio:

Being Part of Lot No. 5, Tract No. 3, within the said Township and described as follows:

Beginning in the center line of Shady Lane at the Northwesterly corner of lands conveyed to John A. and Ellanor F. Mayer by deed recorded in Volume 255, Page 14, of Geauga County Records of Deeds; thence North 74° 30’ 00” East along the Northerly line of said Mayer lands and through an iron pipe 30.33 feet from said place of beginning a total distance of 615.56 feet to an iron pipe; thence North 03° 00’ 15” East 100.0 feet to and iron pipe; thence South 73° 34’ 20” West 672.78 feet to the center line of Shady Lane, and through an iron pipe 30.85 feet therefrom; thence South 23° 55’ 25” East along said road center line 156.0 feet to the place of beginning, containing 1.841 Acres, as surveyed in October, 1953, by T.R. Root, be the same more or less; but subject to all legal highways.

Property Address: 13389 Shady Lane, Chesterland, OH 44026

Deed Reference Number: dated December 18, 1996, filed December 23, 1996, as recorded as Official Records Volume 1085, Page 1047, Geauga County, Ohio records.

Said Premises Located at: 13389 SHADY LANE, CHESTER TOWNSHIP, OH.

Permanent Parcel Number: 11-291300

DEPOSIT: Pursuant to O.R.C. 2329.211, the required deposit for this offering shall be $10,000.00. Said deposit shall be paid by WIRE TRANSFER of ACH DEBIT TRANSFER with https://geauga.sheriffsaleauction. ohio.gov.

The purchaser shall be responsible for those costs, allowances, and taxes that the proceeds of the sale are insufficient to cover.

Said Premises appraised at ($300,000.00) and cannot be sold for less than two-thirds of that amount ($200,000.00). Please note: The appraisals are based on an exterior appraisal of property only, unless otherwise noted.

TERMS OF SALE: The FULL purchase price shall be paid to the Sheriff within thirty (30) days from the date of confirmation of sale, and on failure to do so, the purchaser may be held in contempt of court, the court may forfeit the sale and/or deposit, or the court may issue any other order it sees fit.

SCOTT A. HILDENBRAND, Sheriff Geauga County, Ohio

Ann M. Johnson, attorney Jan15-22-29, 2026

Sheriff’s Sale of Real Estate General Code, Sec. 11661 Revised Code, Sec. 2329.26 Case No. 25-F-000205

The State of Ohio, County of Geauga, ss: CARRINGTON MORTGAGE SERVICES, LLC, Plaintiff vs. JERRY OLES, ET AL., Defendants

In pursuance of an Alias Order of Sale in the above entitled action, I will offer for sale at public auction, at https://geauga.sheriffsaleauction.ohio.gov/, on Thursday, the 12th day of February, 2026, at 10:00 o’clock A.M., and if the parcel does not receive a sufficient bid, it shall be offered for sale, without regard to the minimum bid requirement, at the same time of day and at the same place of the first sale, on Thursday, the 26th day of February, 2026 the following described real estate, situated in the County of Geauga and State of Ohio, and in the Township of Newbury to wit: Parcel No. 1 (PPN 23-385864)

Situated in the Township of Newbury, County of Geauga, State of Ohio and being in Lot 4, Tract 1 of Township 7, Range VIII of the Connecticut Western Reserve, and being further bounded and described as follows:

Beginning at a southwesterly corner of Parcel 23-385863, owned by Judy B. Brewer and Gretchen L. Watjen by Deed recorded in Volume 1534, Page 276 of the Geauga County Records of Deeds, said beginning point on the centerline of Fairmount Road, 60 feet wide, said beginning point being located South 88° 27’ 49” West along the centerline of Fairmount Road a distance of 60.01 feet from a 5/8 inch rebar found in a monument box,

said 5/8 rebar found in a monument box being located South 88° 27’ 21” West a distance of 1226.99 feet from a 5/8 inch rebar found in a monument box at the centerline intersections of said Fairmount Road and Rockhaven Road, 60 feet wide.

COURSE I Thence South 88° 27’ 49” West along the centerline of Fairmount Road distance of 60.01 feet; COURSE II Thence North 0° 38’ 52” West along an easterly line of parcel 23-036000, owned by Judy B. Brewer, Trustee by Deed recorded in Volume 1534, Page 284 of the Geauga County Records of Deed, a distance of 369.99 feet to a 5/8 inch rebar found capped “Foresight Eng.” Passing through a 5/8 inch rebar found, capped “Foresight Eng.”: At a distance of 30.00 feet;

COURSE III Thence South 88° 27’ 49” West along a Northerly line of said parcel 23-036000, a distance of 154.31 feet to a 5/8 inch rebar found, capped “Foresight Eng.”;

COURSE IV Thence North 0° 42’ 47” West along an Easterly line of said parcel 23036000, a distance of 465.54 feet to a 5/8 inch rebar set, capped “Foresight Eng.”;

COURSE V Thence South 89° 17’ 13” West along a new division line a distance of 200.02 feet to a 5/8 inch rebar set, capped “Foresight Eng.” On a easterly line of parcel #23-385162 owned by National City Bank, Trustee by Deed recorded in Volume 829, Page 338 of the Geauga County Records of Deeds;

COURSE VI Thence North 0° 46’ 41” West along on Easterly line of said parcel #233851162 a distance of 501.98 feet to a 5/8 inch rebar set, capped “Foresight Eng.”, on an easterly line of said parcel #23-385162;

COURSE VII Thence North 89° 21’ 08” East along a new division line a distance of 260.59 feet to a 5/8 inch rebar set, capped “Foresight Eng.”, on a westerly line of said parcel 23-385863;

COURSE VIII Thence South 0° 42’ 47” East along a westerly line of said parcel 23385863 a distance of 906.36 feet to a 5/8 inch rebar found, capped “Foresight Eng.”, at an angle therein;

COURSE IX Thence North 88° 27’ 49” East along a southerly line of said parcel 23-385863 a distance of 154.38 feet to a 5/8 inch rebar found, capped “Foresight Eng.”, at an angle therein;

COURSE X Thence South 0° 38’ 52” East along a westerly line of said parcel 23-385863 a distance of 430.00 feet to the place of beginning, passing through a 5/8 inch rebar found, capped “Foresight Eng.”, at a distance of 400.00 feet and containing 4.3617 acres of land, of which 1.8451 acres came from parcel 23-036000, and 2.5166 acres came from parcel 23-385864, of which 0.0413 acres are within the right of way of said Fairmount Road, as surveyed and described in October 2002 and updated in February, 2006 by Foresight Engineering Group, Inc., under the supervision of Steven N. Roessner, Professional Surveyor, Ohio #7070. The bearing as used herein are assumed and to denote angles only. All 5/8 inch rebar set are 30 inches long capped Foresight Engineering. Be the same more or less.

Parcel No. 2 (PPN 23-036000)

Situated in the Township of Newbury, County of Geauga, State of Ohio and being in Lot 4, Tract 1 of Township 7, Range VIII of the Connecticut Western Reserve, and being further bounded and described as follows: Beginning at a southeasterly corner of parcel 23-239700, owned by Theresa Joherl, Trustee, by Deed recorded in Volume 1776, Page 752 of the Geauga County Records of Deeds, said beginning point being located on the centerline of Fairmount Road, 60 feet wide, located South 88° 27’ 49” West a distance of 359.47 from a 5/8 inch rebar found in a monument box, said 5/8 rebar found in a monument box being located South 88° 27’ 21” West a distance of 1226.99 feet from a 5/8 inch rebar found in a monument box at the centerline intersections of said Fairmount Road and Rockhaven Road, 60 feet wide, said beginning point also being located North 88° 27’ 49” East a distance of 9.13 feet along the centerline of said Fairmount Road

from a 5/8 inch rebar found in a monument box.

COURSE I Thence North 0° 38’ 52” West along an easterly lien of land of said parcel #23-239700 a distance of 751.51 feet to a 1 inch iron pipe found at a northeasterly corner of parcel #23-239700, passing through a 5/8 inch rebar found, capped “Foresight Eng.”, at a distance of 30.00 feet; COURSE II Thence North 89° 44’ 04” West along a northerly line of said parcel #23239700 a distance of 115.24 feet to a 1 inch iron pipe found at a northwesterly corner of said parcel 23-239700 on an easterly line of parcel #23-385162 owned by National City Bank, Trustee by Deed recorded in Volume 829, Page 338 of Geauga County Records of Deeds;

COURSE III Thence North 0° 46’ 41” West along an easterly line of said parcel #23385162 a distance of 83.29 feet to a 5/8 inch rebar set, capped “Foresight Eng.”, on an easterly line of said parcel 23-385162; COURSE IV Thence North 89° 17’ 13” East along a new division line a distance of 200.02 feet to a 5/8 inch rebar set, capped “Foresight Eng.”, on a westerly line of parcel 23-385864, owned by Judy B. Brewer, Trustee by Deed recorded in Volume 1534, Page 280 of the Geauga County Records of Deeds; COURSE V Thence South 0° 42’ 47” East along a westerly line of said parcel 23385864, a distance of 465.54 feet to a 5/8 inch rebar found, capped “Foresight Eng.”, at a southwesterly corner of said parcel 23385864;

COURSE VI Thence North 88° 27’ 49” East along a southerly line of said parcel 23-385864 a distance of 154.31 feet to a 5/8 inch rebar found, capped”Foresight Eng.”, at a southeasterly corner of said parcel 23385864;

COURSE VII Thence South 0° 38’ 52” East along a westerly line of said parcel 23385864 a distance of 369.99 feet the southwesterly corner of said parcel 23-385864 on the centerline of Fairmount Road, passing through a 5/8 inch rebar found, capped “Foresight Eng.”, at a southeasterly corner of said parcel 23-385864;

COURSE VIII Thence South 88° 27’ 49” West along the centerline of Fairmount Road a distance of 239.45 feet to the place of beginning and containing 3.1649 acres of land, of which 0.1649 acres are within the right of way of said Fairmount Road, as surveyed and described in October 2002 and updated in February, 2006 by Foresight Engineering Group, Inc., under the supervision of Steven N. Roessner, Professional Surveyor, Ohio #7070. The bearing as used herein are assumed and to denote angles only. All 5/8 inch rebar set are 30 inches long capped Foresight Engineering. Be the same more or less.

Said Premises Located at: 10108 FAIRMOUNT ROAD, NEWBURY TOWNSHIP, OH.

Permanent Parcel Number: 23-036000; 23-385864

DEPOSIT: Pursuant to O.R.C. 2329.211, the required deposit for this offering shall be $10,000.00. Said deposit shall be paid by WIRE TRANSFER of ACH DEBIT TRANSFER with https://geauga.sheriffsaleauction. ohio.gov.

The purchaser shall be responsible for those costs, allowances, and taxes that the proceeds of the sale are insufficient to cover. Said Premises appraised at ($400,000.00) and cannot be sold for less than two-thirds of that amount ($266,667.00). Please note: The appraisals are based on an exterior appraisal of property only, unless otherwise noted.

TERMS OF SALE: The FULL purchase price shall be paid to the Sheriff within thirty (30) days from the date of confirmation of sale, and on failure to do so, the purchaser may be held in contempt of court, the court may forfeit the sale and/or deposit, or the court may issue any other order it sees fit.

SCOTT A. HILDENBRAND, Sheriff Geauga County, Ohio Tamara Gurchik, attorney Jan15-22-29, 2026

MUNSON TOWNSHIP

GEAUGA COUNTY, OHIO

Notice is hereby given that the 2025 annual financial report for Munson Township is complete and available for review at the Munson Township Hall, 12210 Auburn Road, between 9:00 AM and 3:00 PM, Monday through Friday.

Todd Ray, Fiscal Officer Jan29, 2026

LEGAL NOTICE

Request for Statement of Qualifications for Master Plans Examiner Services

Geauga County, Ohio

Notice is hereby given that the Geauga County Board of Commissioners is requesting Statements of Qualifications from parties or firms able to provide master plan review services. The plan review services generally encompass review of commercial and industrial building plans for projects within the County of Geauga, Ohio. Envelopes containing the submittals should be sealed and clearly marked: “Statement of Qualifications for Master Plans Examiner Services-Attn: Christine Blair, Commissioners’ Clerk.”

Statements of Qualification will be received by the Geauga County Board of Commissioners, 12611 Ravenwood Dr., Suite #350, Chardon, Ohio 44024, or by mail at the same address until 4:00 p.m. local time on Friday, February 20, 2026.

The Geauga County Building Department (“Building Department”) is a certified building department through the Ohio Board of Building Standards (“OBBS”). The OBBS requires that commercial, industrial and institutional (schools, universities, health care facilities, etc.) plans are reviewed by a Master Plans Examiner. Because the County does not have a Master Plans Examiner on staff at the Building Department, the County intends to enter into a non-exclusive contract with one or more Master Plans Examiner(s) as an independent contractor, to provide plan review and written reports, if necessary, of such reviews for a period of three (3) years.

The qualifications set forth in R.C. 153.65(D) (1)-(5) and other qualifications shall be considered in evaluating all statements of qualification. Additionally, all parties or firms must possess the necessary licensing as well as State of Ohio certifications.

The formal Request for Qualifications containing the project description, qualifications requested, scope of services, selection procedures, etc. may be obtained at the office of the Geauga County Building Department, 12611 Ravenwood Dr., Suite #360, Chardon, Ohio, 44024, Monday through Friday 8:00 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.

A copy of this legal notice will be published in the Geauga County Maple Leaf and posted on the county’s internet site on the World Wide Web. Go to: http://co.geauga.oh.us/Notices/ Statements-of-Qualifications

The Geauga County Board of Commissioners reserves the right to waive any formalities, irregularities, or to reject any or all bids.

BY ORDER OF THE GEAUGA COUNTY BOARD OF COMMISSIONERS

Christine Blair, Clerk Jan29 Feb5, 2026

LEGAL NOTICE

2025 FINANCIAL REPORT

BURTON TOWNSHIP

GEAUGA COUNTY, OHIO

Notice is hereby given that the 2025 annual financial report for Burton Township is complete and available for public inspection at the Burton Township Administration Building, 14821 Rapids Road, Burton, Ohio by calling 440-834-1500 for an appointment.

Katie O’Neill, Fiscal Officer Jan29, 2026

NOTICE OF A PUBLIC HEARING

Russell Township

Notice is hereby given that the Russell Township Board of Zoning Appeals will have one Public Hearing on an application appeal for a variance to the Russell Township Zoning Resolution on Monday, February 9, 2026, at 7:00 p.m. in the Russell Township Community Room, 8501 Kinsman Road, Novelty, Ohio 44072.

Variance Application #575, submitted by Applicants Donald and Lynn Levengood, owners of property at 7630 Twin Lakes Trail, parcel number 26-186522. The Applicants are seeking a reduction of the required 100 ft. rear yard setback to 70 feet and a reduction of the required 50 ft. side yard setback to 35 ft. for the construction of a three (3) car barn, per Section 5.2(B) of the Russell Township Zoning Resolution.

The Board of Zoning Appeals welcomes factbased testimony to assist in making an informed decision.

Bonnie Guyer, Secretary Jan29 Feb5, 2026

BID NOTICE

ROAD MAINTENANCE MATERIALS

Bainbridge Township

Notice is hereby given that sealed bids will be received by the Bainbridge Township Board of Trustees at the office of the undersigned until 10:00 A.M., February 20, 2026 for furnishing township road maintenance materials. Quantities given are approximate, and the Trustees retain the option of ordering larger or lesser quantities at bid prices as required.

Bidders are required to use Township Bid form obtained from the office of the Fiscal Officer or on the Township’s website at www.Bainbridgetwp.com. All Bids shall be enclosed in a sealed envelope marked “Sealed Bid for Road Maintenance Materials.” Proposals for the above shall not be combined with any other Bid(s). Bidder may elect to bid on all items listed or any portion thereof. The Township Trustees reserve the right to reject any, or all, bids to accept a primary and an alternate supplier or suppliers and to wave any irregularities. Proposals must be valid for 20 days. Bids will be opened at 10:05 A.M. on February 20, 2026 at the Bainbridge Fire Department Meeting Room.

Janice Sugarman Fiscal Officer Jan29 Feb5, 2026

NOTICE OF SPECIAL MEETING

Village of Burton

The Village of Burton Council will hold a meeting on Tuesday, February 3, 2026 at 6:00 PM in the large room upstairs regarding fulltime employees and compensatory time.

Jennell Dahlhausen, Fiscal Officer Jan29, 2026

Real Estate Transfers

Following is a list of real estate transfers for the week ending Jan. 23, 2026, provided as a public service by the Geauga County Auditor’s Office. Transfers may involve the sale of land only.

AUBURN TOWNSHIP

Paula Sopko, 18420 Shaw Road, to Tony F. and Denise L. Suglia, $165,000. (1.52 acres)

BAINBRIDGE TOWNSHIP

David Maurer and Elin Ingrid Kappus, 7102 Oak St., to Neil and Laura Weiss, $500,000. (0.18 acres)

Levern and William G. Washington Jr., 16672 Canton St., to Levern Washington and Lawrence J. Polewchak, $14,500. (0.12 acres)

Levern Washington and Lawrence J. Polewchak, 16672 Canton St., to Lawrence J. Polewchak, $14,400. (0.12 acres)

Washington Levern, Canton Street, to Lawrence J. Polewchak, $200. (0.12 acres)

Janet L. Frost and Eric L. Anderson (trustees), 7436 Chagrin Road, to Kim and Gerald Dixon, $750,000. (5.88 acres)

U.S. Bank Trust N.A. (trustee), 17549 Merry Oaks Trail, to Diane M. and David L. Engler, $383,000. (0.46 acres)

BURTON TOWNSHIP

Anthony L. and Diane Costa, 14419 Broadwood Drive, to Aaron and Rebekah Hendrickson, $265,000. (0.96 acres)

CHARDON CITY

FLG Chardon LLC, 271 Emerald Drive, to NVR Inc., $93,000. (0.17 acres)

CHARDON TOWNSHIP

BCM Real Estate Ventures LLC, 10992 Henning Drive, to Independent Meadows LLC, $120,000. (1.07 acres)

CHESTER TOWNSHIP

Insana Homes Ltd, 9613 Kim Drive, to Matthew T. Aini and Sally E. Macphedran, $327,000. (1.28 acres)

Michael D. Kobella (trustee), 13475 Sperry Road, to Scott Sharp and Latasha L. Moore Sharp, $280,000. (5.21 acres)

Dale E. and Marybeth C. Mack, 11915 Oakwood Lane, to Evan and Erica Ishida, $539,000. (3.6 acres)

Dale J. and Jacqueline A. Rusnik, 9471

Sherman Road, to Thomas M. and Stephanie Ann Kaufman, $560,000. (5.47 acres)

CLARIDON TOWNSHIP

Robert C. Kronk (trustee), 11374 Claridon Troy Road, to Lindsay E. and Mathew A. Butler (co-trustees), $255,000. (33.94 acres)

HAMBDEN TOWNSHIP

Maple Valley Storage LLC, 12610 Chardon Windsor Road, to Kelli and James Cannon III, $280,000. (5.01 acres)

MIDDLEFIELD TOWNSHIP

Alexus C. Loze, 16745 Peters Road, to Matthew E. Gast, $225,000. (1.79 acres)

MIDDLEFIELD VILLAGE

NVR Inc., 15421 Oak Hill Drive, to Kimberly A. Green, $295,200. (0.24 acres)

MONTVILLE TOWNSHIP

U.S. Bank Trust National Association (trustee), 10525 Clay St., to Donald Dragolich, $288,000. (1.95 acres)

MUNSON TOWNSHIP

Derek J. and Pamela S. Townsend, 10331 Butternut Road, to Joe and Casey Zulandt, $650,000. (2.91 acres)

Ellen J. Strojan (TOD), 12386 Auburn Road, to Stacy John Behrens and Kimberley Gretchen Behrens, $360,000. (17.00 acres)

RUSSELL TOWNSHIP

Rose Ann Bandelow, 8198 W. River Drive, to Oleksandr and Iryna Lashkova, $245,000. (1.51 acres)

Carole Stanley (trustee), 14545 Shire Court, to Leanne and Michael D. Rainer (co-trustees), $1,450,000. (9.28 acres)

Todd C. Korner, 7300 Kinsman Road, to Frank and Natalie C. Wardega, $400,000. (5.35 acres)

Adrian M. and Criselda Grey Altura, 14942 Hillbrook Lane East, to Jacob C. Ebright and Emily Leatherman, $675,000. (1.50 acres)

SOUTH RUSSELL VILLAGE

John A. and David J. Krissinger (co-trustees), 92 Maple Hill Drive, to Amanda and Pace Jasper Clarke, $445,000. (1.06 acres)

THOMPSON TOWNSHIP

Hi Rock Holdings LLC, Madison Road, to 6767 Madison Road LLC, $100. (0.03 acres)

Alison A. Leanza, 6696 Madison Road, to Hi Rock Holdings LLC, $203,000. (0.38 acres)

Southwind Property Solutions LLC, 6916 Dewey Road, to James and Emma Mclean, $315,000. (8.80 acres)

TROY TOWNSHIP

Eli E. Miller Jr. (TOD) and Barbara K. Miller (TOD), 14219 Nash Road, to Tina and Brad Ilenich, $215,000. (1.18 acres)

Classifieds

FOR RENT

Middlefield Village rentals: 3BR house downtown. No lawn-work. Newly updated. Also, 3BR home in desirable location, with space for entertaining, fenced backyard, attached garage. 440-632-0480.

Burton: Large 1 BR apt with den, laundry room, large garage, AC, private patio. No pets. $1,050. Call 440221-0649.

Middlefield: approx 1200 sq ft. 2BR, laundry hook-up, garage, non-smoking, no pets. Security Deposit. 440636-2853 or mjtdyes@gmail.com.

FOR SALE

Small Wood or Brick Stove: good for shop, garage, or small house, heats good. Asking $200. 440-321-5788.

RECORD ALBUMS, Old Cameras, HO Train items, large granite counter-top pieces, fresh/salt water aquariums, old clocks, kerosene lamps. Inquire. 440-338-3563. Russell.

For sale - 4 sheets 5/8x12 drywall. $10 a sheet. 440632-3173.

Hammond Organ A-100, Leslie Speakers 21H and 31H. PR-40 tone cabinet. Looks and sounds great, never gigged, no smoke. $4,750. 440-856-3946.

Honda HRX217 Lawn Mower: great shape, would cost about $800 today new. Yours for $250. 440-548-2414.

Teeter Inversion Chair: Excellent Condition, $250. BowFlex Max-5 Elliptical $650. 440-548-7631 or 440669-7666. Parkman, Oh.

Anchor Brand Folding Bench Wringer Floor Stand: 48” tall, Patent 1896, $240. 440-554-5731.

Massage Table: holds 300 lbs, w/head rest and bolster $150. Home Gym: w/5 DVDs and all attachments, like new, hardly used $350. Call Vicki 440-286-6878.

Seven MAD Magazines: between 1698 and 1971. $10 each or take all for $50. Call for details. 440-883-9056. VINTAGE WWII RADIOS: need new home, radios are complete, working status unknown. For details email DBAKSA1517@GMAIL.COM. Hallicrafters Patterson 1942 Naval Aeronautics Transmitter.

Lithograph Prints, signed personally by the artist: Robert Bateman “Midnight Black Wolf” $2,000. Carl Brenders “Monarch Eagle” $600 and “Full House Boxes” $600. 440-729-0070.

Two double-hung Provia replacement windows: combined dimensions 75 7/8 X 53 5/8. Perfect for a front window $500. 440-336-5044 George. Custom sizes & shapes available.

Used 38’x50’ blue tarp, $40. 440-548-5801 or 216387-8994.

Family Burial Plot for sale. All Souls Cemetery. Serene location in prime section. Section 16. 216-440-8743. Vintage Baby Buggy: $65. 440-487-2955. Nursery Infant Scale-$6. Honda CRV floor mats-$8. Vintage metal tricycle-$15. George Foreman Grilling Machine-$10. 440-346-7708, leave msg.

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.

Toy F1b Aussiedoodle pups born Christmas morning! $1,200/female, $1,000/male. Super Cute! Hypoallergenic, smart, sweet, loyal, between 10-13lbs full grown. Text 440-360-9881 for website/application info.

RINGNECK PHEASANTS - FLIGHT CONDITIONED: Cock birds $20. Hens $15. Propagation permitted farm. Rome, Oh. 440-387-9857.

MISCELLANEOUS

FREE fact: marijuana use affects driving! Judgment. Reaction time. Traffic signals. Deadly crashes. SO — pot affects us ALL. IN MEMORY: Jamie Ellen Burzanko. We love you and miss you. Feb 10th 2001 to Dec 14th 2021. In our hearts always! Grandma and Grandpa B.

REAL ESTATE

Private Investor paying cash for homes/land in any condition. Call or text Brian today at 440-346-0161 for a No-obligation offer. No repairs needed. Fast closings. .34-acre Bainbridge lot on 306, part of Lake Lucerne community with amenities. Tap into utilities: gas, electric, sewer, private community well and SAVE BIG! 57k. 440-596-2608.

RENTAL WANTED

Professional mural and fine artist seeks a live/work studio rental. Preferably cabin-type home. Clean, quiet, respectful. Ready for move in now. Call or text 440-9156486.

SERVICES

Independent Provider will come to you home and do Caregiving. Certified with references. 440-313-1804.

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.