Sewer-Water Tie-Ins, Grants Determine
Nursing Facility’s Fate
By Sherry Gavanditti editor@karlovecmedia com
Hornets Boys Basketball Wins District Championship
KIRTLAND
By alan kornSpan SportS@karlovecmedia com
A proposed 99-bed nursing care and rehab facility on the corner of state routes 306 and 6 in Kirtland currently hinges on sewer and water tie-ins — or, more specifically, the $7 million cost attached to them.
Biltmore Healthcare, LLC, is looking to build the $16-$17 million facility, called Heritage of Kirtland, at 8181Euclid-Chardon Road. However, the project would need to tie into Kirtland’s sewer and water lines.
If the funding doesn’t come from grants or tax incentive financing, the project will not happen, said David Mitchell, of Brenner, Kaprosy, Mitchell, LLP.
“It’s a dealbreaker,” he said. Mitchell has appeared before the Kirtland Planning and Zoning Commission several times on behalf of Biltmore, which he said is the “contracting arm” for a group of investors who develop nursing homes.
Plans presented to Kirtland officials Jan. 24 showed the proposed building footprint at 76,204 square feet.
The Hornets Boys Basketball Team won the OHSAA Div. VI District Championship March 1, defeating Lake Center Christian, 60-48.
With the victory, the Hornets (17-8) have moved on to the Regional Semifinals or Sweet Sixteen in Ohio.
In order to become district champions, the Hornets won three straight games.
The Hornets began their title run Feb. 21 as they hosted the Rittman Indians.
In a dominating performance, the Hornets defeated the Indians 69-37 to claim the OHSAA Sectional Title.
Against the Indians, the Hornets got out to a 2313 lead after one quarter of play.
The Hornets then dominated the second and third quarters, outscoring the Indians 42-14 as they took a 65-27 lead into the fourth quarter.
Having a great sectional title game was sophomore Sammy Ridgeway who connected on five three pointers.
“Sammy's been shooting the ball great all year,” said Hornets Head Coach Shawn McGregor. “In the (sectional title) game he got some really good looks early. He knocked down five 3's and he hit a two later in the game. He has that capability of doing that everyday.”
In the victory over Rittman, the Hornets were led offensively by Vince Carriero (19 points), Ridgeway (17), Lucas Renfro (9), Aiden Hurd (8), Will Burt (4), Ben DiFranco (4), Mike Dumstorff (4) and Johnny Rascan (4).
Next, the Hornets hosted the McDonald Blue Devils on Feb. 25 in the OHSAA District Semifinal.
Against the Blue Devils, the Hornets got out to a 30-19 lead heading into halftime.
In the third quarter, the Hornets extended their lead to 49-30, and went on to defeat the Blue Devils, 69-47.
Kiwanis Celebrates 66 Years at Anniversary Dinner
By donna l roBinSon editor@karlovecmedia.com
The Kirtland Kiwanis celebrated its 66th anniversary dinner Feb. 6 with 64 guests, mostly Kiwanis members, at the Kirtland Community Center.
“As president of the club, I had the honor to participate not only in our annual anniversary dinner — which recognizes those members who have been in the Kiwanis Club … for five-year increments — (but) this was also our first memorial dinner,” said Kirtland Kiwanis Club
with Council is Saturday, Mar. 22 10-11 a.m., at Kirtland City Hall. For more information, contact Joe Smolic at 440-487-8984 or JSmolic@ kirtlandohio.com
ALAN KORNSPAN/KMG
Senior Dan Alfieri led the Hornets with a career high 14 points in their District Semifinal victory over McDonald on Feb. 25.
Nursing Facility
from page 1
Mitchell is planning to go over more lo gistics at the March 10 planning and zoning meeting, he said.
The facility would serve short-term rehab clients for seven to 10 days and offer later stage or long-term care with private rooms.
At full occupancy, Heritage of Kirtland ex pects to employ about 130 to 140 people full time with an annual payroll between $7 and $8 million and would generate between $15 and $16 million in annual revenue, conserva tively, Mitchell said.
All the beds would be certified for both Medicare and Medicaid, he added.
City Explores Funding Options
Kirtland Mayor Kevin Potter agreed with the developers’ stance on water and sewer tie-in costs.
He said a TIF — used to repay a bond for the project — could be a viable option for the city to cover the tie-in costs, but may not be a desirable solution.
If the facility tied into city water and sew ers, nearby property owners on the direct corners could see an increase in their proper ty values, resulting in higher property taxes, the mayor said.
With a TIF, only the taxes on the in creased value would go toward repaying the bond, he said.
“A TIF is not a tax incentive for any giv en business or property owner. It redirects future tax dollars on the increased property values to go toward the bond. The property owners still pay the same amount of tax to the city, based on the value of the property, but the tax amount that results from higher property values is diverted to pay off the bond on sewers. Anything they do to improve the property once the TIF is placed on that given property goes toward the bond,” Potter explained. “We would only be ‘TIFing’ the commercial properties in the retail commer cial district up there at or near the (routes) 6 and 306 intersection and immediate to that intersection.”
Obtaining grants to pay for the entire project would be the best case scenario, with the next best being a grant-TIF combination, the mayor said.
“The other instance is you don't get any grants — you strictly do TIFs on those commercial properties in that business district,” he said. “If those property values don’t go up, the city gets no additional tax revenue.”
Potter said the city would approach the Lake County Commissioners, state representatives and senators for grant opportunities.
“We are already in touch with a lot of folks, including Congressman Dave Joyce's office. As a matter of fact, we had a $2 million grant scheduled to be awarded last year through his office,” he said.
Because the government budget didn’t pass in time, they have to resubmit the request, Potter said, adding he’s had assurances from Joyce the $2 million dollar grant would still be honored.
City Addresses Impact Concerns
When asked about potential additional costs due to increased foot traffic at that corner, Potter said he sees no need for additional pedestrian crossings or traffic control studies.
“That's one of the main attractions with a facility like this on a property that large,” he said. “If a large retail outfit were to come in,
SUBMITTED
there would be a lot of new traffic. But with a nursing rehab facility, the staff come and go throughout the day. That shouldn’t cause an inordinate amount of traffic, so it's one of the best-case scenarios.”
Potter does, however, believe Heritage of Kirtland may attract future development nearby.
“With sewers in, we could see another small retail center, a coffee shop, another restaurant, perhaps a gas station in the future,” he said.
Some residents questioned whether the facility would impact their property taxes, Potter said, adding he told them there was no need for concern unless property values increase.
“Some folks ask, ‘If the sewer passes my house, will I be forced to tie in?’ And that answer is no. This is not an (Environmental Protection Agency)-mandated project.”
However, residents along the path of the sewer lines would have the choice to tie in, he added.
While the two-mile run of sewers would stretch from Russellhurst Drive into the downtown area — passing houses and other commercial properties — only the businesses on those adjacent corners are being exam-
ined for TIFs, Potter said.
The cost for residents and business to tie into the sewers would be based on the number of property owners interested, he added.
“That certainly would defray some of the (overall) costs if (more property owners) chose to tie in,” he said. “The big thing is just making sure people understand that the TIF is not an incentive for the developer. A TIF property is responsible for future tax dollars on property increases due to tying in.”
Development Advantages
“As of the 2020 census, we’re the 10th most aged population in the state,” the mayor said. “Another nursing care and rehab facility would be good for Kirtland.”
The only other similar facility in the city is Kirtland Rehabilitation and Care at 9685 Chillicothe Road, which, according to Medicare.gov, only has an overall rating of one star.
Mitchell said he fully expects the new facility to be a five-star operation.
The planning and zoning commission determined the proposed use of the property is permitted, he said.
“That was the initial threshold we had to get over since nursing homes aren't men-
tioned as an allowed use in that (zoning) district, but they're similar in our view to a hospital and the planning and zoning commission approved our preliminary development plan with some suggested changes,” Mitchell said, adding he expects the commission to address any conditional-use applications needed, and the process to obtain them, during the March 10 meeting.
“After all that, we still have to get final development plan approval. And we won't be submitting the final drawings until construction drawings are complete. That's going to be several months from now,” Mitchell said. “We would like to start building ideally in the spring of 2026, contingent on the status of the sewers. Once the final development plan is approved, you have a year to start building. We don't want to get caught in a situation where we get final plan approval and then the sewers aren't committed for over a year. We’d have to start this whole process over again. That's why we’re in no hurry to submit our final development plan.”
The sewer lines are the ultimate catalyst for the project, as well as development on any of the other three corners currently on the market, Mitchell reiterated.
Plans depict a single floor, sprawling building with manicured landscaping, a covered entrance, large windows and ample parking. The interior lobby has raised ceilings, a fireplace and cozy gathering areas. The plan shows the building set within existing woods, with an added water feature in front of the establishment.
A Note from the Mayor
Happy St. Patrick’s Day!
C’mon, even if you’re not Irish – you can always enjoy a good corned beef dinner, a fiddle and guitar session, and a drink of your choosing at one of our local establishments.
I bet even if you asked the folks at Biga, or Frank and Mimi at Down the Block, and certainly the DiSantos of Angelo’s, they could get creative with one of their pizzas and really get into Irish holiday spirit. Maybe some colcannon on a white pizza, or some other potato concoction worked into one of their takeout dishes?
Certainly, Tavern Six will be jumping on St. Patrick’s Day and Crowley’s will be waiving their Irish flag a little higher on March 17. We are also both thankful and excited that Sausalito is reopening, and very soon, Casa Rosa Cucina will be having their grand opening. For a small town, Kirt land continues to expand as a place known for good food and gathering.
roads, drainage and city safety and service equipment, we know expanding our commercial tax base is imperative. As we consider commercial business expansion, we must keep our small-town appeal in mind.
Currently, we are working to create a plan to expand sanitary sewers to the state routes 6 and 306 intersection. For too long, these four corners have been relatively stranded and stagnant in terms of meaningful development.
Mayor Kevin Potter
Kirtland City Council continues to work dil igently through the annual budget process and is considering a 2025 road program that would repave Markell Road and the front half of Emerald Glen. Additionally, extensive repairs performed by contractors are anticipated on portions of both Kirtland Chardon and Sperry, as well as Hobart, Hillcrest, Highland, Crary, Far Bar, Palamino, Apaloosa and Bridlehurst.
Although there still is not a dedicated source to fund road repairs, we are happy we can address the roads mentioned and hopeful that as costs come in on those projects, we can stretch to patch even more roads.
To address future funding needs for
Basketball from page 1
Coach McGregor was happy with the Hornets intensity and defensive effort in the victory over the Blue Devils.
“I thought our kids came out with great energy the whole night,” McGregor said. “It's very difficult to play 32 minutes against a team as quality as McDonald. I think we made some things difficult for them. They didn't shoot it as well as they normally do.”
He continued: “I think our kids did a really good job of contesting shots, keeping them off the glass. I am just really proud of the effort they had throughout the game.”
Added senior Vince Carriero: “It was a good win. I think we were able to flush them defensively. I think our speed really bothered them. They wanted to slow the game down, play a slower style, and we didn't let them run their sets.”
Along with their excellent defense, the Hornets offense had four players in double figures. In fact, leading the offense was senior Danny Alfieri who had a career high 14 points.
“Coach always talks about being confident as a shooter, I think I was confident tonight,” said Alfieri. “To play my last home game and to have the most points in my career, it's a great feeling. I just have to give credit to my teammates for finding me for open looks.”
Planning and zoning is currently considering the potential development of a nursing care facility at the routes 6 and 306 northeastern corner. This more than 20-acre site is ideal for this type of development as it would not increase measurable traffic or unwanted activity. The proposed medical facility, in my opinion, is much more desirous than a large retail chain store or shopping center that by right, could instead appear at the site. Jobs created at a medical facility stand to be more reliable than those of the lower paying jobs that often come with retail stores.
To fund the sewer project, we are considering TIF financing that would direct a portion of future property taxes to pay for sewer expansion. This type of financing would not relieve new development of any tax obligations, but simply work to pay for infrastructure projects.
I continue to look forward to better things to come in Kirtland and appreciate the discussions leading up to new opportunities.
Happy St. Patrick’s Day!
Mayor Potter
Also helping to lead the Hornets offensively in their victory over the Blue Devils were Renfro (11 points), Burt (10), Hurd (10), Carriero (8), DiFranco (6), Nathan Quercioli (3), Dumstorff (2) and Ridgeway (2).
In the District Championship game on March 1 at Valley Forge High School, the Hornets defeated the Lake Center Christian Tiger, 60-48.
Leading the way offensively for the Hornets in their District Championship victory over the Tiger were Carriero (26 points) and Renfro (22).
The Hornets have now advanced to the Regional Semifinals for the first time in 26 years. Their last trip to the Sweet Sixteen was in 1999 under Head Coach Al Russ.
In the Hornets' run to winning the Division IV Burton District Championship in 1999, they defeated Orange Christian (8336), Mogadore (64-61) and Bristol (49-47).
To win the 1999 District championship game, J.R. Creveling and Anthony Margheret hit clutch free throws in the final minute to propel the Hornets to the Regional Semifinals.
The trip to the Regional Semifinals in 1999 was preceded by Coach Russ leading the 1991 Hornets Boys Basketball Team to the state final four.
The Hornets will next play the Smithville Smithies on March 4 in a Regional Semifinal game that finished after deadline at the Canton Memorial Fieldhouse.
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Second Tavern Six Restaurant to Open in South Russell
By Sherry Gavanditti editor@karlovecmedia com
The vacated Panini’s at 540 East Washington Street in South Russell Village will soon be reincarnated as Tavern Six, a family-oriented restaurant offering a made-fromscratch menu, a rustic atmosphere and community involvement.
Jim Tekavec, of 540 Property Group LLC — part owner of the restaurant alongside Teanna and Dan Vitantonio and three others — requested to officially change the name of the restaurant to Tavern Six at the South Russell Village Planning Commission meeting Feb. 6. The commission unanimously approved it.
“We’re looking forward to it. Tavern Six has an even better reputation,” said South Russell Village Mayor Bill Koons. “They’re a class act and we’re looking forward to them being a part of the village very much and they
want to get involved in the community. They have just the kind of attitude that we would like to see in a restaurant in the village.”
The new business will mark a second location for the popular Tavern Six at 7592 Chardon Road in Kirtland, of which the Vi tantonios are also part owners, in addition to Sage Karma Kitchen in Willoughby.
The couple had no reservations about opening another spot.
“It will be the third restaurant I’ve helped open,” Teanna said, adding she feels confi dent about the move.
The former Panini’s touted 15 years at the South Russell location, according to a “thank you” sign in front of the deserted building.
The average restaurant industry turnover rate was nearly 80 percent over the past 10 years, according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics.
Kirtland’s Tavern Six defied those statis tics by remaining open for a decade, includ ing through the COVID-19 pandemic.
Teanna attributes their success to finding a niche.
“We’re family friendly and we are really and truly a restaurant that has a craft and a cocktail list, as well, but our main focus is fresh scratch-made ingredients,” she said, adding there’s something for everyone.
“Kids can come in and get mac and cheese and the parents can get a salmon entree or a steak or ribs, so we kind of cater to every one, but I would say it’s more of an American menu,” she said.
The new restaurant will incorporate Kirt-
“Everything is made in-house like dressings, sauces … and we’re going to be doing a very similar menu to what we have in Kirtland, but obviously, we’re going to put some flairs on it ... change it up a little bit, and just basically, put our flair on to the location,” Teanna said.
In addition, the new restaurant will incorporate Tavern Six’s flare for community support.
“We are very involved in the community and we definitely like to give back,” Teanna said. “I believe, really and truly, that’s the reason we’re so successful. We’re giving gift cards and baskets and donations all the time.”
The new restaurant’s hours will be similar to the other two, closing by either 9 p.m. or 10 p.m. weekdays and 11 p.m. on weekends, Teanna said.
She expects Tavern Six’s grand opening will happen in the next several weeks, after they hire more staff — for a total of 30 to
Business from page 2
“It doesn't do us any good to build our own package treatment plant and have those other three corners still sit there doing nothing,” he said. “We think this is a great opportunity for Kirtland and will spur additional development and jobs and additional revenue for the city. We don't mind being the first ones in. We're happy to take on that burden if it helps the city.”
Area Business Offer Support
Directly across the street from the proposed development, at 10535 Chillicothe Road, is 85-year-old Morris Everet, owner of The Last Moving Picture Company, which sells original vintage movie posters, lobby cards and film stills.
He has been in business and running auctions for about 34 years, he said, adding he offers the largest stock of movie posters and photos for sale in the United States.
Shelly and Ken Kushner, patrons of Kirtland’s Tavern Six for over a year, sat at the bar on a chilly Saturday afternoon in early February. The restaurant was packed, with only the spillover room available for larger groups.
Bartenders and kitchen servers greeted patrons and knew many by name. The music was low, so people could have conversations without yelling, and several televisions featured various programming, from sports to news.
The Kushners were eager to share their excitement for the South Russell location, adding as grandparents, they are glad both Tavern Sixes are centrally located between their home and that of their grandkids.
Their favorite entrees include the tofu stir-fry for Shelly and the Buffalo mac and cheese for Ken.
The food “is always great,” Ken said, his wife chiming in, “We love coming here, the people are always so nice.”
While Everet had no idea about the proposal, he said he would be happy for more foot traffic.
“People don't know we're here,” he said, wishing the developers luck.
He doesn’t expect to pay more property taxes or have plans to tie into the sewer lines.
“Hey, why would I? I don't have to add anything,” Everet said. “I've got everything I need here.”
He does, however, support the city giving that corner water and sewer access.
“If the city is going to put in water lines, then that is huge,” he said. “I’m glad people will have another option to get help they need.”
Nicholas DiSanto, owner/manager of Angelo's Pizzeria, is also across the street from the proposed development and looks forward to extra business as a result of it.
“Having that there will drastically increase our business,” he said. “If we're able to tie into (sewer and water lines), that'll make a massive difference for us. I think our property value will skyrocket with public sewers. I have no problems with that at all.”
Hornets Winter Sports Athletes Have Success
By alan kornSpan SportS@karlovecmedia com
Hornets winter sports athletes have had great success throughout the postseason.
In fact, Hornets’ gymnasts and track and field athletes qualified for state tournaments while wrestlers and swimmers advanced to District Championships as a result of ex cellent sectional performances. In addition, Hornets basketball players have received var ious post-season honors.
Kirtland's Reese Kost recently became the first Hornets gymnast to qualify for the OHSAA Gymnastics State Championships.
In order to qualify, Kost had an excellent performance at the OHSAA District Gymnas tics Championships on Feb. 22 at Hudson High School.
At Districts, Kost qualified for states in the Beam (9.275 - 9th Place), Bars (9.0 - 8th place), and in the all-around competition (36.25 - 7th place). These scores were all personal records for Kost.
At the OHSAA Gymnastics State Champi onships on March 1 and 2 at Hilliard Bradley High School in Columbus, Kost finished 14th on the beam, 16th in the all-around and 17th on the bars.
Also competing at the State Champion ships for the Hornets will be athletes from the Girls Indoor Track and Field Team.
Qualifying for the Indoor Track and Field State Championships at Spire Academy on March 7 include Sylvia Vosicky (400m), Izzie Copeland (800m), the Girls 4X4 Relay Team (Copeland, Megan Urbanick, Lexi Vosicky, Sylvia Vosicky), and the Girls 4X8 Relay Team (Copeland, Kylie Sayle, Urbanick, and Sylvia Vosicky).
In addition, members of the Hornets’ wrestling and swim teams competed at OHSAA District Championships.
For the Hornets wrestling team, placing at sectionals and advancing to the District Championships were Ahnai Welchan's (2nd place at Sectionals), and Preston White (4th place).
White said that the cohesion of the Kirt-
land Wrestling team was influential to his successful performance at sectionals. In fact, he felt that his teammates provided him with confidence, energy and positive motivational thoughts.
“The match to get into districts was stressful and Eddie (Podojil) here, he was over there cheering me on and he gave more power to make it to districts,” said White. “During that match I was thinking, ‘I got to make it to districts, I got to make it to districts, it will be a huge accomplishment to show that I came a long way from my freshman year’.”
Also placing at sectionals and qualifying as a district alternate was senior Eddie Podo-
jil.
Podojil noted that his endurance helped him have success at sectionals as it gave him the energy necessary to wrestle optimally throughout all three periods of his matches.
As Podojil completes his Hornets’ wrestling career, he said that he has great memories of being a member of the wrestling team.
“I love Kirtland, I love the wrestling team, they have been such a great program,” said Podojil. “I've made so many friends over the years, and I am going to miss it, I am going to miss it a lot.”
Kirtland swimmers also had good performances at sectionals on February 7th and 8th at Spire Academy. In fact, qualifying for the
District Meet at Cleveland State University on Feb. 14 included Keegan Loschert (200 IM -17th; 100 Yard Breaststroke - 19th), Elliot Hostelley (200 Yard Freestyle - 17th), and Joey Ciavarelli (100 Yard Backstroke 16th).
Receiving post season Northeast Lakes All-District honors for the Hornets Girls Basketball team were Kristiana Katic (First Team), Emily Ridgeway (Second Team), Anna Dumstorff (Honorable Mention) and Addison Fleming (Honorable Mention). For the Hornets Boys Basketball Team, also receiving Northeast Lakes All-District Honors were Vince Carriero (First Team), Lucas Renfro (Second Team), and Ben DiFranco (Honorable Mention).
ALAN KORNSPAN/KMG
Junior Preston White finished 4th at sectionals in order to qualify for the OHSAA District Championships at Independence on February 28th.
By kathy talty
Kiwanis Korner
What a busy February. Our Aktion Club made flower bouquets for senior residents in the area with stencil flowers and straws.
The K-Kids made Valentine’s Day cards for the for the seniors at the residential care facilities. Builders Club finished up their work at the boys’ basketball concession stand and they will be putting together Easter baskets for kids in our area soon.
Key Club showed their appreciation to their teachers with a week full of donuts, memo notes of thanks and dressing up as their favorite teacher.
They are off to the District Convention in Dublin, Ohio, where they will enhance their leadership skills and meet other kids from Ohio. Kirtland is proud to be sending 17 students who will be participating, four of whom are lieutenant governors. All the best!
The Kiwanis Club had their annual anniversary dinner for those who have been members of the club for five, 10, 15, up to 50 years. The Legion of Honor went to Rick Fox for 25 years and Dave Saywell for 30 years of service. Our lieutenant governor, Jeff Kershaw, presented the awards to the long-time serving recipients and inducted our new member, Mimi Osborne. Congratulations!
It was a great honor to have Deloris Parsons present. She is the first woman to join the club and the first woman president of our club. We also introduced our first memorial dinner that evening. We remembered six of our members who recently passed away and gave endless hours to help make our commu-
nity great. They are Joel Lucia, Carl Messner, Junior Orrick, Steve Romelfanger, Lorraine Schupp and Don Seaburn.
Kiwanis comes from the American Indian word “nun-kee-wanis,” which means “we build.” We are grateful to all our members who are, or were, engaged with building our wonderful community.
The Kirtland Foundation is having its annual rummage sale in May. The proceeds help with scholarships for the Kirtland students. Please donate your treasures of garden and sports equipment, household items, toys, books, etc. Call Mary Sams with donations at 216-237-0771.
Key Club is hosting the Scholarship Blood Drive, which is on March 26 at Lakeland Community Center in the Athletic Building, from 11 a.m.-5 p.m.
There is the chance for the Key Club to receive the Red Cross Scholarship of $1,000.
Queen Bee Buzz: inspired by Pope Francis — “Situations can change; people can change, be the first to bring good.”
The Creative Writing Contest is back again and waiting for more terrific essays, one-act plays, poetry, ads and song lyrics for
“I’ve got a Dream.” The contest goes from Feb. 14-March 21. Information is available on this QR code.
Our Kirtland Hornets continue to thrive inside and outside of the classroom. Congratulations to Sam Gordon and Harp er Hammond who have qualified as National Merit Finalists! A National Merit Finalist is a high school student who has achieved ex ceptional academic performance, as demon strated by high PSAT scores, and has been selected to advance to the final stage of the National Merit Scholarship Program, signi fying their potential for success in rigorous college studies; they compete with other finalists within their state to be awarded a National Merit Schol arship based on their overall academic re cord, extracurricular activities, and essay submissions.
By Chad VanArnhem, Superintendent
Congratulations to the Kirtland High School Academic Challenge Teams! On Satur day, the Kirtland B Team (Harper Hammond, Bo Famularcano, Sean Kats, and Julian Al dom) placed third in the Chagrin Division and the Kirtland A team (Charlie Whittaker, Sam Gordon, Matty Jankowski, and Corbin MacGillis) finished first and undefeated in the Valley division bracket. With their stellar performance, Kirtland Academic Challenge Team qualifies for the Regional competition in April.
THURSDAY, APRIL 10
DINNER AT 6:00 P.M.
Our high school students and staff traveled to West Geauga on Friday, February 21st for the much anticipated Battle of 306 competition. The event collected over 400 items to be donated to the Ronald McDonald House which was utilized by one of our families this school year. While everyone was having a great time at the event, nothing came close to the special moment when Kyle Williams surprised everyone and came into the gym! This was Kyle’s first time out of the hospital since his medical emergency on September 18th. Kyle’s mom and dad were with Kyle and got to see two student bodies com e together to give him a standing ovation and chant his name as he made his way across the gym. Kyle was in great spirits and received a barrage of hive-fives and hugs. It was a very special moment. Kirtland Middle School also collected over 70 pounds of pop tabs to support the Ronald McDonald House.
Kirtland Elementary School raised over $5,800 to support the American Heart Association during their “Love Your Heart Week”. Thank you to our PTA volunteers who provided the elementary students with a variety of healthy snacks on their Heart Healthy Day which was celebrated on Valentine’s Day.
The Kirtland Local Schools will host a Senior Citizen Appreciation Night on Thursday, April 10th with a dinner and show. The cost is $5.00 for dinner and the show is FREE.
Dinner will begin at 6:00 pm in the Kirtland High School Cafeteria followed by the play "Adventure" by JD Atkins at 7:00 pm in Hornet Hall. Reservations are required and can be made at the Senior Center, online or using the QR Code.. Please make checks payable to Kirtland Local Schools. The deadline for
: Scan the QR code on your phone!
Play: Adventure By JD Atkins
Free admission to see the play with dinner purchase!
Geauga Home & Garden Show Expands to 4 Buildings
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The 18th annual Geauga Home and Garden Show is back, and it’s not just bigger — it’s massive. The event will span four buildings across two locations — Heritage Marketplace, 15848 Nauvoo Road in Middlefield, and Fisher Flooring, 16286 Nauvoo Road, Middlefield — with more than 120 vendors offering everything for your home, garden and outdoor spaces.
Join March 28 from 9 a.m. to 8:30 p.m. and March 29 from 8 a.m. to 3 p.m. for this expanded celebration of Northeast Ohio’s finest craftsmanship and creativity. Attendees can explore four buildings filled with:
• Top-tier home improvement experts, landscapers and builders;
• Handmade goods by Amish Country artisans, from furniture to garden décor;
• Exclusive products and deals on tools, furnishings and outdoor essentials.
“This year’s expansion reflects how much this event has grown,” said show organizer Paul Wengerd. “Four buildings across two locations allow us to offer even more variety, more vendors and a truly unforgettable experience for everyone who attends.”
What’s New This Year?
Whether you’re looking to renovate, decorate, or simply enjoy a day in Amish Country, you can expect to see more than 200 venders featuring everything from home improvement to handcrafted goods; a celebration of Amish craftsmanship, including handmade furniture, garden accessories and unique
décor; and exclusive giveaways, including a chance to win custom lawn furniture and a storage barn from Pine Craft Storage Barns or snag treasures through silent auctions and door prizes. Admission is $5 (children under 18 are free).
Discover Heritage Marketplace
When you’re not exploring the Home and Garden Show, take time to visit the charming shops and attractions at Heritage Marketplace, including:
• Country Arts and Jewelry: Southwest-inspired home décor, artwork and jewelry;
• Geauga Amish Library: A cultural gem with Amish history and artifacts;
• Yoder’s Bargains: Amazing deals on household items and salvaged goods;
• Byler’s Engine: Lawn and garden equipment with full repair services;
• Valley View: Quilting fabrics, books and supplies for DIY crafters;
• Heritage Trailers: High-quality trailers for every hauling need;
• Pine Craft Storage Barns: Custom storage solutions with on-site construction available.
“For nearly two decades, we’ve brought the community together to celebrate local talent and craftsmanship,” Wengerd added. “This year, the expanded space allows us to showcase even more of what makes northeast Ohio Amish Country so special.”
For event updates and more information, visit theheritagemarketplace.com or follow Heritage Marketplace on Facebook.
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President Kathy Talty. “It was lovely to be with the families that came to share in our remembrance of their loved ones who recent ly passed.”
Kiwanis Secretary Rick Fox was the host/ speaker at the dinner and was recognized for his 25 years in the club.
The former owner of The Kirtlander, Fox hosted Kiwanis Club meetings for 15 years and decided to join the club as a result.
“Joining Kiwanis is such a rewarding op portunity for anyone. It gives you a chance to show great volunteerism and to truly make a difference in Kirtland,” Fox said. “I am very proud of my time spent with the club. It has been fun, rewarding and very fulfilling. the camaraderie with the other members.”
Fox added, “I have seen over the course of my entire life what Kiwanis has meant and done for Kirtland. Our annual (Kirtland Kiwanis) Strawberry Festival is our most significant project and has the most reach to our community.”
Fox grew up in Kirtland, is a Kirtland High School graduate and was employed in Kirtland for 36 years, so he has watched what Kiwanis has contributed, he said.
“It was nice to be a part of this organization when I joined and I have had the opportunity for various leadership roles in my 25 years, both in our club and on a tri-county level,” he said. “Being a part of this group is truly a labor of love for me.”
Another longtime member touched on his early days with the club.
Dave Saywell, who has been a member for 30 years, joined because the club was local and did great things for the community — like adding the history room for the library, gazebo at Kirtland City Hall, helping with the veteran’s memorial, and financially supporting many student and local projects.
“The most satisfaction for us is the strawberry festival,” he said, echoing Fox. “It is great being there on opening night and seeing so many Kirtland neighbors together.
When his name was called during the dinner, Saywell said he was “surprised when they told me it’s been 30 years already.”
“I thought of all the great people (past and present) who made Kiwanis a fun, educational, beneficial club,” he said.
The club also highlighted special guest Deloris Parsons, who was the first female member to join in 1987. She became president in 2004 and the citizen of the year recipient in 2012.
Parsons, director of Kirtland Public Library for 39 years, was always volunteering for Kiwanis projects when needed, she said.
“The Kiwanis Club was made up of wellknown Kirtlanders interested in our great community,” she said. “Our (library) board was very thankful to the Kiwanis Club for always being there for our needs. I really had great support from the club … a group of dedicated individuals supporting the residents of our great community and I was very proud to be a member.”
The club also welcomed its newest member, Mimi Osborne, who has lived in Kirtland for the last 24 years.
“We are so excited to have her as our new member with all her energy and creative talents,” Talty said.
Osborne also expressed excitement.
“Through living in our community, you are aware of the extraordinary involvement that Kirtland Kiwanis is connected with,” she
said. “The dedicated volunteers serve this community through many service and fundraising projects. Most notably, the community service that gives back to the city, the strawberry festival and the scholarship foundation.”
She added, “My daughter received great pleasure as the secretary to Key Club, a division of Kiwanis. She helped rebuild the chapter and went to (Washington) D.C. for a convention to learn more ways to strengthen the chapter, as well as meeting students all around Ohio involved in Key Club. Upon graduation from Kirtland High School, she was the recipient of a scholarship to attend Case Western Reserve University.”
Osborne also thanked Talty, Fox and past presidents for initiating her into the club.
“The encouraging welcome by every member in attendance was truly touching,” she said. “I look forward to volunteering my services to Kiwanis for many years to come. As a local Realtor, I will continue to introduce and encourage our new homeowners to this great organization.”
Special recognition was also given to Scott Barrick, site leader for Historic Kirtland, and his wife, Shauna Barrick, who were presented a book and a plaque.
“As site leader for Historic Kirtland, I joined Kirtland Kiwanis two years ago,” Scott said. “This continued a tradition of community involvement by the site leaders and the missionaries who serve at the historic sites. I thoroughly enjoyed my associations with the Kirtland Kiwanis Club. I associated with a group of men and women that I might never had had a chance to meet otherwise. Being part of Kiwanis will always be a cherished memory of our time here in Kirtland. We finished our mission on Tuesday, Feb. 11, 2025. It has been our pleasure to serve in Ohio.”
Others members recognized include 15year member Russ Diemer, 10-year members Rich Lowery and Annette Zanko, and fiveyear members Jerry Bartels, Marie Bartels, Ryan Ricart and John Soros.
The club also honored members who passed away in 2024.
“The evening gave all of us a new perspective of how each one of us touches the lives of so many and our community,” Talty said. “These six people we remembered gave endless volunteer hours, ideas and projects to make Kirtland the wonderful community for us to live in, raise our children and enjoy so many amenities, like the Kirtland Community Center. I don’t think there was a dry eye
tenant governor, Citizen of the Year and Kiwanis president;
• Cark Messner – Past Kiwanis president;
• Lorraine Schupp – Past Citizen of the Year, board member of Kirtland Seniors.; • Donald Seaburn – Past Kiwanis president.
DONNA ROBINSON/KMG
Guests assembled at tables for the Kirtland Kiwanis Club’s 66th anniversary dinner Feb. 6.
Kirtland, WG Unite for Second-Annual Battle of 306
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Kirtland High School students filled the buses with excitement as they headed to West Geauga High School for the annual Battle of 306 on Feb. 21.
This year marked a significant shift from last year's virtual format, as the entire Kirtland student body made the journey to West Geauga for an in-person showdown.
The Battle of 306 featured a series of "Minute to Win It" style challenges. Competitors faced off in crowd-favorite games like the Mattress Race, Jolly Ball, Knockout and Rock-Paper-Scissors. It all culminated with principals Mr. Patti and Mr. Puskas jousting it out for the Principals’ Cup.
But the true victory of the day extended beyond the gymnasium walls. The joint effort between these Route 306 neighbors resulted in a substantial donation drive for the Ronald McDonald House, with students collecting over 400 items to support families in need.
A surprise highlight of the day came when KHS student Kyle Williams, making his first trip outside the hospital since his Sept. 18, 2024, medical emergency, entered the gymnasium to overwhelming applause. Both student bodies rose to their feet in a spontaneous standing ovation, chanting Kyle's name as he moved across the floor with his parents, Denise and Harry Williams.
Students greeted Kyle with high-fives and hugs in a moment that connected directly to the event's purpose, as the Williams family had utilized the Ronald McDonald House
KHS student Kyle Williams made a surprise visit to the second-annual Battle of 306 held Feb. 21 at West Geauga High School. Both student bodies rose to their feet in a spontaneous standing ovation, chanting Kyle’s name as he moved across the floor with his parents, Denise and Harry Williams.
during Kyle's hospital stay.
"What makes the Battle of 306 truly special is seeing our students embrace both competition and community," KHS Principal Victor Puskas said. "Events like these make me especially proud to be part of Kirtland,
and to have formerly worked for West Geauga Schools. Bringing these two strong school communities together to strengthen our partnership, and to support the Ronald McDonald House and the Williams family, has been extremely impactful to all involved."
The event showcased how two neighboring schools can come together, turning their shared geographic connection along state Route 306 into a meaningful partnership that benefits both their students and their broader community.
Kirtland Library
The Kirtland Public Library is located at 9267 Chillicothe Road. Hours are Monday-Thursday from 9 a.m. to 8 p.m.; Friday-Saturday from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.
For more information about any of these programs or to register, please call the library at 440-256-7323 or visit www.kirtland.lib.oh.us
Adult Programs
Knit & Crochet
March 18 • 6 p.m.
Open to anyone who enjoys knitting or crocheting, or is interested in learning these skills. Join the fun the first Monday and third Tuesday of each month from 6-7 p.m.
Bring your own supplies; drop in and get hooked.
No Pressure Book Discussion
March 24 • 1:30 p.m.
Join us in the Community Room to talk about any books you've read recently that you want to recommend to others. Bring a bagged lunch if you would like to.
Cookbook Club
March 25 • 6 p.m.
This club is for anyone who wants to expand their cooking knowledge and have some fun in the kitchen. For the month of February, the club will be joining up with the Culinary Class. Call the library for more information or sign up at the website for the dual event.
Special Events
Culinary Class:
Soup and Sourdough
March 11 • 6 p.m.
It's the perfect weather for some hot soup and fresh bread. You will take home some great recipes and sample some delicious food. The cost is $10/person.
Registration is required as space is limited. If cancellation becomes necessary, we request at least three days notification before the event to avoid cost to the library.
Cleveland Rocks-Really
March 19 • 7 p.m.
Learn about the rich and exciting history of the music pioneers and colorful personalities responsible for making Cleveland-truly-the rock and roll capital of the world.
Author Deanna Adams will recount her experiences and expound on all the famous musicians, deejays and clubs in the area.
This event is sponsored by the Friends of the Kirtland Public Library.
Relish Tours
March 22 • 2 p.m.
Join us for a virtual journey through Cleveland with Relish Cleveland Food Tours. Susan Chapo will take us through the fun neighborhoods and we will see what it is like to taste our way around the town on one of her tours.
Pysanky Egg Decorating
March 29 • 10 a.m. & 12 p.m.
Learn about the art and history of decorating Ukrainian Easter Eggs. Bring a hardboiled egg and we'll supply the rest. This class will be offered at two different times;
only register for one time. This program is for adults and we are requesting a $2 cash donation at the door to help cover the cost of supplies.
Youth Programs & Special Events
Mufaro’s ‘Beautiful Daughters’
March 7 • 3 p.m.
In celebration of International Women's Day, kids up to fifth grade will listen to Mufaro's “Beautiful Daughters” by John Steptoe and create arts and crafts that are based on the story. Please register everyone attending.
LEGO Club
March 8 • 10:30 a.m.
Families, spend an hour creating with the Library’s LEGO bricks. Once you have completed your creation, you will place it in on display for all to see until the next LEGO Club. Please register for this event.
Stories and More: Colors
March 28 • 10:30 a.m.
Families with children age 5 and under, our monthly Stories and More events include a story time followed by activities all on the same theme. We will celebrate colors and then explore several activities. Please register for this event.
Weekly Events
Lapsit
Tuesdays • 10 a.m.
Bounces, rhymes, one book, scarves and shakers, geared for families with children under the age of 3. No need to register.
Storytime
Wednesdays • 10 a.m.
Enjoy great books, rhymes, songs, and surprises with your child. This storytime is geared for families with children aged 5 and under. No need to register.
March Students of the Month
The Kirtland Kiwanis “Students of the Month” for March 2025 are fifth-grader Avery Koprowski, of Kirtland Elementary School, eighth-grader Noelle Fisher and 12th-grader Ivana Rodin, of Kirtland High School.
The Kiwanis sponsors the “Students of the Month.” The principal and staff chose one student from each school to be recognized. Each student has their picture taken, receives a certificate and a T-shirt that says, “Student of the Month.”
Ivana Rodin, of KHS.
