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Writing Contest Inspires Local Students

By KAthy tAlty

We were thrilled to once again honor 19 Kirtland Schools students for their amazing creative writing works during our awards dinner at the Community of Christ Church.

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This year’s creative writing contest theme, “If I had a Robot…”, prompted a science fiction exploration of writing.

Famous science fiction writer Carl Sagan wrote: “There is nothing inhuman about an intelligent machine; it is indeed an expression those superb intellectual capabilities that only human beings, of all the creatures on the planet, possess.”

We had three esteem judges: Jeanne Madison, an award-winning actress and a member of the Dramatist Guild, a 2022-2023 Nord Family Foundation Playwright Fellow at the Cleveland Public Theater with a sell out for “Showin’ Up Black”; Shell Dedmon, a retired lawyer and a very talented poet who enjoys revisiting her own experience of writing as a student; and Paul Rampe, a videographer involved in writing

See Contest • Page 4

Boys Lacrosse Start Season Undefeated With 5-0 Start

By AlAn KornspAn sports@KArlovemediA com

With the tremendous success of the Hornets football team (8 state championships) over the past two decades, the potential to field a top Boys Varsity Lacrosse team in Northeast Ohio at Kirtland should not come as a surprise.

To continue to build the Hornets Boys Lacrosse program, first year co-head coaches Rob Belknap and Joe Benjamin have begun to lead the Hornets to success.

Belknap and Benjamin, both former Northeast Ohio Area High School players from Gilmour and Kenston respectively, both played college lacrosse at the University

of Mount Union.

Prior to leading the Hornets program, Coach Belknap said the Hornets Boys Lacrosse Team had been run by parents.

Now, with a more formalized structure, Coach Belknap coordinates the offensive attack, while Coach Benjamin focuses

See Lacrosse • Page 2

High School Seniors Honored at Military Signing Day

Kirtland High School recognized five seniors who are committing to serve in the United States military during a Military Signing Day ceremony held on Friday, April 24, in The Forum.

Family members, staff and peers gathered to honor the students’ decision to serve their country and celebrate this important next step following graduation. The students recognized included:

• Izzy Copeland – Coast Guard

• Ali Hooper – Air Force

• Richard Pennza – ROTC Marine Corps

• Cameron Treadwell – Army National Guard

• Charlie Vignero – Air Force Military Signing Day ceremonies are held to recognize students who choose to enlist or pursue military

something greater than themselves.

“We are incredibly proud of these students for their decision to serve our country,” said Kirtland Schools

selflessness and a deep sense of responsibility. They represent the very best of Kirtland Local Schools and we are grateful for their willingness to

these students for their courage and willingness to serve and extends its gratitude for their future contributions to our nation.

Coffee with Council is Saturday, May 9 10-11 a.m., at Kirtland City Hall. For more information, contact Joe Smolic at 440-487-8984 or JSmolic@ kirtlandohio.com

The Hornets Boys Lacrosse Team has been led offensively this season by Lucci Cantini. After scoring five goals in the season opener on March 19 against the Elyria Catholic Panthers, Cantini led the Hornets with a hat trick in a 14-3 victory over the Panthers at Wilson Stadium on April 24.

Lacrosse

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on coordinating the Hornets defense.

As their first season at the helm has progressed, Coach Benjamin and Coach Belknap are happy with the improvement the players have made this season.

“Everyday we're getting better,” Coach Belknap said. “Seeing the progression of this team from the day we started to now, it's night and day. I'm so glad to have had all of the players buy in.”

He continued: “We're beyond glad that the boys have bought in and the season is reflecting the effort that they're putting in.”

In fact, under Belknap and Benjamin's leadership, the Hornets have started 5-0 with victories over the Elyria Catholic Panthers (2), the Willoughby South Rebels, the Poland Seminary Bulldogs and the Lakewood Rangers.

Most recently, on April 24 at Wilson Stadium, the Hornets defeated the Elyria Catholic Panthers, 14-3.

The Hornets were in control from the start of the contest.

They took an early, 2-0 lead on goals from Matt Schweinfurth and Jack Cramp.

The Hornets then added two second quarter goals by Brandon Oppenheim and Mario Lorber as they took a 4-0 lead into intermission.

After halftime, the Hornets put the game

at me, bringing defenders with them, and then hitting me open. And then I just got to finish it for them, they'll put it on a tee.”

Schweinfurth and Oppenheim also talked about the Hornets victory over the Panthers and the influence that Coach Belknap and Coach Benjamin have had on the Hornets improvement this season.

Schweinfurth and Oppenheim both said that this most recent contest against the Panthers showed the improvement the team has made since the season opener.

“I think the offense moved the ball really well compared to the last game,” Schweinfurth said. “We played them before, (and in this game), we had a lot of improvement.”

Oppenheim agreed with Scweinfurth's assessment of the Hornets' improvement throughout the season.

“A lot of growth was shown,” said Oppenheim. “We were moving it through x (position), we were communicating, and adapting to the defense.”

Schweinfurth and Oppenheim said that Coach Belknap and Coach Benjamin have been a main reason for the team's success.

“They taught us to play the right way, like play clean” Schweinfurth said. “In the past we were known to be the dirty team, but now we're really stepping up and teams want to play us, and it's fun.

“We're doing a lot more drills, stick work and we’re just understanding how the game is played.”

Added Oppenheim, "We have way more practices, they have evolved.”

“The level of experience that those guys (Coach Belknap and Coach Benjamin) have and what they can show us from their experience playing Lacrosse (is invaluable).”

In addition to this most recent victory over the Panthers, the Hornets got the season off to a strong start under Coach Belknap and Coach Benjamin's leadership.

In fact, in the first game of the season the Hornets defeated the Panthers, 10-4 on March 19 at Elyria Catholic.

In the season opening victory, the Hornets offense was led by Cantini (5 goals), Jaxson Morris (2), Griffin (1), Lorber (1) and Oppenheim (1).

In their following matchup with the Willoughby South Rebels on April 6 at Harry E. Winters Stadium in Willoughby, the Hornets had three players tally hat tricks in their 12-5 victory.

Against the Rebels the Hornets were led offensively by Cantini (3 goals), Jake LaVerde (3), Lorber (3) and Schweinfurth (1).

After victories over the Panthers and the Rebels, the Hornets defeated the Poland Seminary Bulldogs, 11-6, on April 14 and the Lakewood Rangers, 8-2, on April 21.

The Hornets season comes to a close as they host their final three games against the Boardman Spartans (May 2), Gilmour Lancers (May 5) and the Padua Franciscan Bruins (May 7).

A Note from the Mayor

Thanks to all that came out to help this past weekend in our ongoing effort to bring a bit of joy and comfort to our community’s seniors and veterans. As we’ve been doing every spring and fall for the past five years, a group of twenty plus volunteers took to neighborhoods for yard cleanups benefiting those in need of some extra assistance. It’s hard to describe the feeling myself and other volunteers get from the outpouring of gratitude by recipient homeowner and their fam ily members. Thanks to all that coordinated the work and to those that participated.

Speaking of volun teering, the Kirtland Ki wanis, Kirtland Garden Club, Barber Williams post of the American Le gion, and Kirtland Scout troops will gather for the city hall and Veterans Memorial Cleanup on May 16th. Traditionally, the work starts at 8 a.m. and entails mulching, planting flowers and weeding. It really is a great community event leading up to Memorial Day and each year I am truly astounded at the work that gets done in a few short hours. All are welcome to participate.

In Kirtland, we see many forms of volunteerism. One exceptional version of this exhibition of selflessness comes from our business community. Time and again our businesses support the efforts of school, city and civic groups as these organizations find ways to make our community better. One such business is Mike’s Market. Established in 2019, Mike’s Market quickly became known for quality meat, butcher shop, produce and deli. A true cornerstone of our community, Mike Vasko and his team not only provide a great product but the experience at Mike’s is enhanced by the nostalgia of a local market and butcher shop. In addition to the dynamic business they bring to our community, Mike continues to support local organizations and events with his good nature and charity. Thank you to Mike and his team for making Kirtland a better place.

As we all know, this year, our country celebrates its 250th year of Independence. Over the next few months, we assuredly will be inundated with featured documentaries, talk show discussions, publications and newspaper/online articles reflecting on that proud moment in American History for which we all can be so grateful. Our nation’s independence and subsequent centuries have been the beacon of light for the rest of the world. The influence and leadership exhibit-

ed by the United States since the founding has paved a path of hope and security for the entire globe.

With that in mind, I thought it could be interesting to feature stories of our own ancestry that may have played a part in our founding and independence. In June, I’ll share a story of a fifth or sixth great-grandfather who served in the Continental Army, was severely injured yet survived the Revolutionary War and made his way to the Akron area as part of the Western Reserve expansion. If you have your own family story related to the nation’s independence, please email me at kpotter@ kirtlandohio.com and I’ll work to stitch it into one of the coming month’s mayor’s notes.

Happy Spring!

Mayor Potter

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SUBMITTED

Kiwanis Korner

By KAthy tAlty

This past month has been busy with introducing the community to the Kirtland Kiwanis’s Open House, which was a well-attended event with many tables to explore the different opportunities to become involved in the community through the Kiwanis.

Doc Jim Porter gave a historical look at the Kirtland Kiwanis from 1972 and how it has grown, saying, “We think we’ve done it all and yet there is more to do.” Kiki Murdoch spoke of how the Kiwanis has been a big influence in her life. Thank you Jen Dun, Rick Fox and Kent Packer for a job well done.

Congratulations to Meriah Duncan, who was recognized by Kiwanis Governor Marcia Copeland Hudson for her outstanding service to the youth in our community with her strong dedication to the Key Club, Academic Challenge and the National Honor Society.

Service Leadership Program night was a great way for the club members to get updated on all the activities the groups have been busy with.

The Key Club shared past their year with donating funds to Birthright with their first Pancake Breakfast in the fall, volunteering for the Haunted Hayrides at the Lake Farm

Park, sock donations in the winter, just to name a few projects. We are proud of their recognition for their leadership skills at the District Leadership Conference in Columbus recently.

Builders Club described their fundraising with the concession stand at the basketball games, assembling Easter Baskets for children in the community and putting candy bags together at the Standard Testing time to give the students an extra bit of brain power.

K-Kids ended a wonderful year of kindness and service leadership by meeting two lovely guide dogs for the blind. The Golden Retriever dogs, Herman and Skipper, began their training at 8 weeks old and loved all the attention from the kids.

Aktion Club collected over 240 pounds of pull tabs for the Ronald McDonald House. They are busy collecting plastic bags to be melted and molded into park benches.

The Rummage Sale is coming up with an early preview day on May 13 and goes on until May 16 at Pumpkinville on Chillicothe Road.

Plan on going to the Strawberry Festival from June 18- June 20.

Queen Bee quote: Service is the blend of purpose and joy. Be helpful and have fun too.

Contest

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and staging for the Cleveland Illuminating Company, who has also been involved with the annual Shakespeare Competition sponsored by the English Speaking Union for many years.

May Students of the Month

The Kirtland Kiwanis “Students of the Month” for May 2026 are fifth-grader Gracie Heising, of Kirtland Elementary School, seventh-grader Caprice Lozar and eighth-grader Daphne Laven, of Kirtland Middle School, and ninth-grader Andrew Urban, of Kirtland High School.

The Kiwanis sponsors the “Students of the Month.” The principal and staff chose one student from each school to be recog nized.

Each student has their picture taken, receives a certificate and a T-shirt that says, “Student of the Month.”

The judges looked at how highly captivating the writing was, whether the reader was kept engaged and could visualize the scenes. They also judged the uniqueness of each piece and how insightful each writer’s creative style was.

Let us celebrate our Kirtland students who picked up their pen or computer and wrote powerful poetry and prose.

This creation of art with powerful emotions, expressions and cultural reflections is to be applauded.

The submissions will be available at the library to read.

We thank the Deloris C. Parson Endowment Fund and the Friends of the Library for their support.

Awards were presented to:

Division 11-12

Blue Ribbon: Teagan Sanzobrino

Red Ribbon: Joshua Owen Stewart

White Ribbon: Kaitlyn D’Amato

White Ribbon: Vivienne Venida

Honorable Mention: Matthew Thomas Lauren Palagyi Danika Schaum

Division 9-10

Blue Ribbon: Benjamin Cook

Red Ribbon: Danni Eberlin

White Ribbon: Chloe Nay

Honorable Mention: Sara Garvin Noelle Fisher Gwyneth Kraft

Division 6-8

Blue Ribbon: Bo Brauer

Red Ribbon: Ryan Jackson

White Ribbon: Jacob Jackson

Honorable Mention: Emily Addis Johnny DeGreer Layla Conant

Pictured, from left, are CWC Judge Paul Rampe, IT specialist Greg Cosimi, DCP President Kathy Talty, CWC Judge Jeanne Madison, CWC Judge Shelly Dedmon, President of Friends of Library Gail Ribelli.

CHUCK BICKART/KIRTLAND KIWANIS

From left, “Students of the Month” Gracie Heising, of KES, Caprice Lozar and Daphne Laven, of KMS, and Andrew Urban, of KHS.

Matthew Thomas Danni Eberlin

Bo Brauer Johnny DeGreer Kathy Talty, Ryan Jackson, Gail Ribelli

Kirtland Schools

Many great things continue to take place at the Kirtland Local Schools but I want to keep our community updated on recent legislative changes that have affected our surrounding cities and our school district’s finances.

Our October, 2025, five-year forecast had the district with a balance of $3.9 million in 2030 on a $19 million dollar budget. With the recent legislative bills implemented at the state and county level, we now show a negative balance of $588,000. The dis trict has $4.5 million less in 2030 or a loss of around $1.1 million dollars a year. This past October, the three Lake County Com missioners voted to double the homestead rollback and owner occupancy tax called the “Piggyback Provision”. Lake County was one of four counties, out of 88 in Ohio, to do this. This will cause the Kirtland Local Schools to lose approximately $422,000 a year. (The City of Kirtland will lose around $59,000, the City of Kirtland Hills about $33,000, Waite Hill will lose an estimated $24,000 and the library around $8,000. The three commissioners will vote again in June to extend or not extend this “piggyback provision”. If they elect not to, the District, cities and library would not lose those amounts.

By Chad VanArnhem, Superintendent

are seeing declining enrollment from a decreased birthrate. Because of the declining enrollment and the loss of $1.1 million a school year, the Kirtland Local Schools will be making the following cuts and changes:

• Three Kirtland Elementary Teachers

• Two Kirtland Middle School Teachers

•One Middle School Library Aide

Our district, like many in northeast Ohio,

QR Code to the Lake County Commissioners Piggy Back Provision Lost of Funding Projections

•An agreement with the union to: Re-

duce one maintenance position to six months

• Reduce morning transportation secretary from seven to three hours

• A Kirtland teacher will instruct two career tech classes paid by Auburn Career Center

• Pay to participate fee for athletics will increase by $25 (Costs to run athletics have gone up 37% over the last two years.)

All of these cuts and changes total around $390,000.

Our District is deficit spending for the first time in many years as we have not needed to pass a new general fund levy back to 2012. The legislative changes have increased the deficit spending which will require the District to go to the taxpayers sooner to ask for a new tax levy. (see graph)

If you have any questions, please do not hesitate to contact me.

Thank you for your continued support, and go Hornets!

Dr. Chad VanArnhem, Superintendent

Hornets Flag Football Starts Season Undefeated

By AlAn KornspAn sports@KArlovecmediA com

Although the Sport of Flag Football is a relatively new sport at the varsity level in Ohio, the Kirtland Hornets have already developed a tradition of excellence.

Under the leadership of Head Coach Tiger LaVerde, the Hornets won three of the first four Northeast Ohio Flag Football Championships, including winning titles in 2021, 2022, and 2024.

Although Coach LaVerde is no longer coaching the Hornets Flag Football Team, the tradition of excellence has continued under first year head coach George Burich.

Currently, the Hornets hold the top spot in the Eastern Conference, White Division of the Cleveland Browns Flag Football League at 4-0, having scored 138 total points.

Led by junior quarterback, Anna Dumstorff, sophomore running backs Abela Delgado and Payton Adkins, freshman running back Gabby D'Amato, and sophomore wide receiver, Josie Burich, the Hornets started their season with a 12-6 victory over the Chagrin Falls Tigers.

Then, on April 10 at Hawken High School, the Hornets added two more victories as they defeated the St. Johns Heralds, 42-12, and the Laurel Gators 42-25.

Most recently, the Hornets moved to 4-0 as they defeated Agape Christian AcademyHiram, 42-24 at Hawken High School's Walton Stadium on April 17.

In a fast paced first half against Agape, the Hornets started quickly. For most of the first half the two teams traded touchdowns.

After a defensive stop of Agape on their first drive, the Hornets offense scored first when Abela Delgado ran for a touchdown to put the Hornets up 6-0.

Delgado said that she focused on using her speed to get the touchdown.

“I was just running as fast as I could,” said Delgado. “It was a good breakaway where I wasn't near a ton of girls so I was just able to go and I was running really hard and I made it (into the endzone).”

Agape then came right back and scored to

even the game at 6-6.

But the Hornets quickly answered with a touchdown run by Gabby D'Amato to take a 12-6 lead.

On the Hornets third drive of the first half, Delgado ran for a touchdown and D'Amato's extra point conversion gave the Hornets a 19-12 lead.

The Hornets closed out the first half scoring with a touchdown pass from Dumstorff to D'Amato to take a 27-18 lead into halftime.

After halftime, Agape Academy scored first to get to within three points of the Hornets at 27-24.

However, the Hornets defense rose to the occasion and shut down Agape the rest of the game.

The Hornets pulled away late on two touchdown passes by Dumstorff.

“I was just looking for all the open peo-

ple when we threw the ball,” Dumstorff said.

“Josie (Burich) was always open in the end zone for a good pass there.”

Dumstorff’s first touchdown pass of the second half was completed to Adkins. After converting the two point conversion on a pass from Dumstorff to Burich, the Hornets led 35-24 with 8 minutes left in the contest.

The Hornets closed out the scoring on Dumstorff's touchdown pass, her third of the game, to Josie Burich. After converting the extra point, the Hornets made the final score 42-24. The victory over Agape was the third straight game that the Hornets put 42 points on the scoreboard.

Afterwards, Dumstorff and Delgado discussed the Hornets victory over Agape.

“It was a tough game at the beginning, but then we were able to get up pretty high, we did good,” said Delgado.

Added Dumstorff, “They kept getting touchdowns, but it was back and forth, we would get a touchdown, they would get a touchdown and we just held (our ground) and got the win.”

Coach Burich said that the Hornets

speed, which was evident against Agape, has been integral in their success this season.

“(Our) speed definitely makes a huge difference,” Coach Burich said. “It makes people cover the whole field. We don't run a ton of plays. Everything sets something else up, so you can't cover it all and we take advantage of where (the defense) lets people free.”

Overall this season, Delgado said that the team is having fun and improving.

“I think it's been fun and we've made a lot of progress,” Delgado said.

Added Dumstorff, “ I definitely think from our first game to now (we have made progress). We just didn't really know stuff as well. But now I feel like we're a lot more comfortable and (completing) a lot of passes.”

Delgado said the main goals are to have success on the scoreboard and to enjoy playing the sport.

“Obviously (a goal) is to win, but just try our best and keep getting better,” Delgado said.

The Hornets will next take on Andrews Osborne Academy Phoenix on May 1 and the Maple Heights Mustangs on May 3.

the Hornets 42-24 victory over Agape Christian Academy.

Smrdel Leads Hornets Baseball to Success

By AlAn KornspAn sports@KArlovecmediA com

Under the leadership of Head Coach Luke Smrdel, the Hornets baseball program has performed extremely well over the past 13 years.

Smrdel, a former NCAA Division I Baseball player at Cleveland State University and Notre Dame College, has been a teacher in the Euclid City School District for the past two decades.

Concurrently, Smrdel, a former collegiate pitcher, began his coaching career as an assistant baseball coach for the NDCL Lions and the Euclid Panthers until 2013.

Since 2013, Smrdel has led the Hornets Baseball program to success. In fact, as the Hornets Head Baseball Coach, Smrdel has won over 200 games, 7 CVC division championships (2013, 2014, 2015, 2016, 2019, 2023, 2024), and 3 OHSAA District Titles (2018, 2019, 2025).

Last season, Smrdel led the Hornets to the OHSAA Div. VI Regional Title Game.

This season, Smrdel again has the Hornets playing excellent baseball.

Through nine games, the Hornets are currently 9-0 having defeated Maple Heights (15-3), Berkshire (6-4), Villa Angela-St. Joseph (12-7 and 9-0), Rootstown (2-1 and 5-1), Crestwood (4-3), Cuyahoga Heights (10-1) and West Geauga (8-7).

Coach Smrdel said that he is happy with how the Hornets have been playing this season. In particular, he said that the pitching staff has done a great job of getting in front of hitters and pitching to contact.

He stressed that although the players have an outcome goal of trying to make a deep playoff run, he strives to keep his team focused on playing one game at a time.

On April 17, at Kirtland High School, the Hornets Baseball stayed focused on the task at hand as they picked up their sixth victory of the season, defeating the Villa Angella-St. Joseph Vikings, 9-0.

In this game, the Hornets were led by Lorain County College commit Nate Chuko who threw a complete game shutout, only giving up five hits, and striking out ten Vikings batters.

Chuko, who leads the Hornets pitching staff with a 0.00 ERA said that he had great cohesion with catcher Lucci Cantini in calling effective pitching sequences.

“Me and Lucci just had a bunch of great sequences throughout this game,” Chuko said. “I didn't go too deep into any counts. I just had my teammates to back me up and we played a great game.”

Chuko said that his fastball and change up was working well against the Vikings hitters. In particular, he said that his two seam fastball was particularly effective.

“My two seam was tailing in on a bunch of righties, that was really throwing them off,” Chuko said. “My change up was (also) really on point today.”

In addition to Chuko's excellent performance on the mound, leading the Hornets at the plate against the Vikings was senior Chase Gron (3-3, RBI), Jack Turk (2-3), and Carson Kalous (2-4, 2 RBI).

After the 9-0 victory over the Vikings on April 17, Gron talked about his approach and hitting well with two strikes.

“I step up to the plate with the same mindset, just bat on the ball, and I got it today,” Gron said. “I always hate going to an 0-2 count, and I kind of do that a lot. Then I get my two strikes approach, got to get the bat on

KORNSPAN/KMG Hornets senior Nate Chuko was dominant on the mound on April 17 in a 9-0 victory over the Villa Angela-St. Joseph Vikings at Kirtland High School. Chuko threw a complete game shutout, only allowing five hits and striking out ten.

the ball and (think) good things will happen. That's what happened on the last line drive.

“(With the two strike approach), I just don't take as big a powerful swing.”

For the season so far, Gron is leading the Hornets with a .464 batting average (13-28).

In addition, through nine games the Hornets have five players hitting over .400 including Gron, Noah Conner (.414 - 12-29), Lucci Cantini (.407 - 11-27), Sebastian Becker (.400 –8-20) and Xavier Lasecki (8-20). Also, Tyler Turk is hitting .391 (9-23).

As a team, the Hornets are hitting .357.

The pitching has also been stellar for the Hornets. For the season the team ERA is only 1.919. Leading the pitching staff this season for the Hornets is Chuko (0.0 ERA), Lasecki (12 innings pitched, 0.583 ERA, 13 K, 1 BB), Drew Thaler (0.70 ERA, 16 K), Zach Freeburg (1.75 ERA, 11 K) and Becker (18.2 innings pitched, 29 K, 3.37 ERA).

As the season continues the Hornets

players are focused on trying to make a deep playoff run.

Gron said that his goals are to keep hitting well and to try to help lead his team to

the OHSAA Final Four in Akron. Added Chuko, “The main goal is just to get back to that regional final, play Lake Center Christian and win it this year.”

ALAN

KHS Celebrates Senior Citizen Appreciation Night

stAff report

Kirtland High School welcomed 35 community members for a memorable Senior Citizen Appreciation Night on April 16, bringing together in one special evening connection, celebration and the arts.

The evening began with dinner in the high school cafeteria, where guests gathered and enjoyed time together before heading to

Hornet Hall for the first performance of the school’s spring play, Murder With Tomato Sauce, by David J. LeMaster.

The event provided a meaningful opportunity for students and community members to connect while showcasing the talents of Kirtland’s theater program.

The performance kicked off a weekend of shows on April 17-18 and was met with an en-

thusiastic response from the audience.

From the set design to the performances on stage, students delivered an engaging and entertaining production.

Kirtland Local Schools extends its appreciation to the community members who attended and helped make the evening so special.

Genealogical Society May Events

The Lake County Genealogical Society will hear from Kelli Jo Bergheimer as she presents "How to Organize and Pass On Your Family History" during its May 28 meeting at 10 a.m. on Zoom.

Bergheimer will explain a preservation plan for saving and passing on the accumulated family history that has been digitized, searched, compiled and archived through thousands of hours of time.

Bergheimer is a writer, teacher, editor and international genealogical speaker. She is the Director of Curriculum and As-

sessments for Blue Kayak, a K-12 textbook company, and the Director of Education for Your DNA Guide.

In addition to being involved in other genealogical groups, Bergheimer runs a small business, Mess on the Desk, a genealogical organization company with a YouTube channel.

Any person interested in family history or genealogy is invited to join. To receive an invitation to the Zoom meeting, send an email to lcgsohio@lcgsohio.org at least two days in advance of the meeting.

Community members enjoyed dinner in the Kirtland High School cafeteria before the spring play on Senior Citizen Appreciation Night on April 16.

Property Tax Petition Short as July Deadline Looms

By Allison Wilson Wilson@KArlovecmediA com

The petition to place a property tax abolishment measure on the ballot is approximately 108,500 signatures short of its mark, Brian Massie, co-founder of the coalition behind the effort, told media April 23 at a press conference held in a Kirtland Hills home featuring a replica Oval Office.

To qualify for the November ballot, the petition must include at least 413,488 valid signatures from 44 of Ohio’s 88 counties by July 1. The group has collected 305,000 signatures so far and are aiming for a minimum of 620,000, Massie said.

“We are on a pace to reach the 413,000, but not our minimum goal of 620,000,” he said. “We have surpassed the needed collection of signatures from the required 44 counties, so that we can collect signatures now from any county in the state.”

Massie urged Ohioans to help the petition effort by printing petitions and collecting at least 10 signatures.

“Help us push back against the socialist tyranny that has taken over the Ohio statehouse,” he said.

If the group falls short of its 620,000-signature goal, members will decide in June whether to submit the petition as is or continue collecting signatures to ensure they end up on the ballot, he said.

He added the group does not plan to stop until the amendment is placed on the ballot.

“I have been sounding the alarm bells on property taxes for more than 10 years,” Massie said, adding Ohio does not have a revenue problem, but a spending problem.

Massie pointed to state spending priorities, noting Ohio ranks first in the nation in funding public libraries.

He also questioned the level of control local taxing authorities have.

“There is no local control when the federal and the state government give unfunded mandates for public schools,” he said. “This is but one reason why the administrative costs are spiraling out of control. (State) Rep. Dan Troy stated in his recent townhall meeting that public school financing is the purest form of socialism. The state of Ohio is being run by socialists.”

Ohio’s school funding system requires significant changes, Massie said, calling it unsustainable.

der to control these costs, these ever-increas ing costs to educate a child.”

County officials have raised concerns about the potential impact of eliminating property taxes.

Earlier this year, school district administrators estimated they would run out of funding by 2027 if property taxes were eliminated, with roughly 69%-76% of their budgets currently coming from those taxes.

Townships also rely heavily on property taxes, sparking concern amongst officials about their ability to continue operating should they be abolished.

During an educational forum, Newbury Trustee Greg Tropf said consolidation with

Bainbridge Township has the population necessary to incorporate as a city, Trustee Kristina O’Brien has previously noted.

Russell Township Fiscal Officer Karen Walder has also said townships may need to consider consolidating services with neigh-

boring communities, particularly for road Claridon Township Trustees recently ment district with Chardon, though officials noted such an effort would be complex. Even if the proposal does not reach the ballot, Tropf said townships should begin

Petition • Page 11

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.

Used Book Sale

May 2 • 9:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m.

The Friends of the Kirtland Public Library are hosting their quarterly book sale. Small bags are $5 and large bags are $8. Cash and credit cards are accepted. Head to the back door to find some treasures.

3 Steps to Achieving Your Writing Goals Workshop

May 2 • 1-3 p.m.

Having trouble defining your writing goals? Overwhelmed when trying to figure out the process to follow to achieve them? Challenged by procrastination, defeatist self-talk or creative constipation? In “3 Steps to Achieving Your Writing Goals” you'll gain useful information and do-able tips to help you work toward your specific writing goal, with information drawn from Nancy Christie's book, Rut-Busting Book for Writers. This event is sponsored by the Friends of the Kirtland Public Library.

Adult Programs

Knit & Crochet

May 4 • 6 p.m.

May 19 • 6 p.m.

Drop in and get hooked with our knit and crochet club. Bring your own supplies and enjoy an evening of creating and chatting with fellow crafters.

Natural Beekeeping

May 5 • 5:30 p.m.

This fun-filled presentation by Rich Lowery is for anyone interested in learning more about honeybees. Topics will include honeybee biology, basic beekeeping techniques, the vital importance of honeybees, their environment and even some honey tasting. Registration required.

Chair Yoga

May 11 • 2 p.m.

Anne Owens leads gentle chair yoga. All levels welcome to this free event sponsored by the Friends of the Kirtland Public Library. Please register.

Tempests In a Teapot: Influential

Women

in the World of Tea

May 11 • 6 p.m.

In celebration of Mother's Day and all the influential women in our lives, Patricia Den-

Kirtland Library

nison, Certified Tea Sommelier, will present inspirational stories of how women used tea to change the course of history. Palmer Place Fine Teas samples will be served. Registration required. This program is sponsored by the Friends of the Kirtland Public Library.

Cricut Design Workshop: Spring Cards

May 12 • 4 p.m.

Learn the basics of Cricut design with this Card Workshop. All supplies will be provided and registration is required. This project was made possible in part by the Institute of Museum and Library Services and the State Library of Ohio.

The Secret World of Puzzles

(Rescheduled)

May 13 • 6 p.m.

What makes a puzzle valuable? What's the best inexpensive puzzle? Which brands have the highest quality? And what about all those thrift store puzzles? Local culture writer and lifelong dis-sectologist Erin O'Brien has found the answers within her sprawling collection of 400-plus jigsaw puzzles.

Inside all those boxes, she's uncovered much more than just weirdly shaped pieces. They've contained a deceptive 18th-century horse, a mysterious glimpse inside Madame Tussaud's, an array of hypnotic discs and too many other surprises to list.

Come and learn the tips, tricks and secrets of this quiet and fascinating hobby as O'Brien puts it all together one piece at a time. This event requires registration and is sponsored by the Friends of the Kirtland Public Library.

No Pressure Book Discussion

May 18 • 1:30 p.m.

Ready for some new book suggestions? Bring any suggestions for good books you have read and get some new ideas too. Bring a bag lunch if you like. Just drop in; no registration required.

3D Design Workshop:

D&D Dice Box

May 20 • 4 p.m.

Participants will create their own custom dice box in Tinkercad. This class is designed for intermediate users of Tinkercad, so some previous experience is recommended. This project was made possible in part by the Institute of Museum and Library Services and the State Library of Ohio.

Growing Up Cleveland: Barnaby, Captain Penny and Ghoulardi

May 20 • 6 p.m.

Baby boomers raised in Cleveland grew

up with a variety of unique children’s television hosts, including the lovable Barnaby, the affable Captain Penny and the outrageous Ghoulardi. Relive the days of early television and along the way, have fun with some children’s television trivia.

For more than 10 years, retired executive, local historian, wit and master storyteller Dennis R. Sutcliffe has been rekindling forgotten Cleveland memories and he will be here to share these stories with us. Registration is required for this event which is sponsored by the Friends of the Kirtland Public Library.

Suncatchers

May 22 • 2 p.m.

Come make some easy and simple suncatchers with us just in time for the summer. Make them as colorful as you want to liven up any room. Feel free to bring any shape of cookie cutter you would like if you want a specific shape. Registration required.

Cookbook Club

May 26 • 6 p.m.

Want to expand your kitchen skills? Every month, we cook up a new dish from a different theme. Bring your own place setting and beverage and the dish you prepare. Please sign up for more information. In May, we are using the cookbook “Betty Crocker's Lost Recipes.” Make any recipe to share with the group.

Youth Programs

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.

Special Events

Laketran Bus Visit

May 1 • 10:30 a.m.

Explore a Laketran bus from the inside. We'll examine the features of the bus and enjoy a story and a craft. Participants will be able to pose for pictures in the driver's seat; parents, bring your cameras. Bus visits will be 10:30-11 a.m. and indoor storytime will be 11-11:30 a.m. Please register for this event.

LEGO Club

May 2 • 10:30 a.m.

Families, spend an hour building with the library's LEGO bricks. Once you have completed your creation place it on display until the next LEGO Club.

Mother’s Day Mugs

May 5 • 11 a.m. to 5 p.m.

Participants will create their own custom mug using the Cricut and the Cricut mug press. All supplies will be provided by the library. To register, please contact the reference desk to reserve an hour-long tech-oneon-one slot. This project was made possible in part by the Institute of Museum and Library Services and the State Library of Ohio.

Toddler & Preschool Dance Party

May 8 • 10:30 a.m.

Families with young children up through age 5, spend half an hour dancing with your child. We will explore different props such as shakers and scarves. What will we use this month? Please register for this event.

Cricut Design workshop: Spring Greeting Cards

May 12 • 4 p.m.

3D Design Space:

Dungeons & Dragons Dice Boxes

May 20 • 4 p.m.

Meet Me on the Courtyard

May 22 •10:30 a.m.

Families with children age 5 and under, join us on our gorgeous courtyard to explore the activities that will be waiting for you. Make new friends as you play. What will you find this month? In case of inclement weather, this event will be held indoors. Please register for this event.

Make a Suncatcher

May 22 • 2 p.m.

Come make some easy and simple suncatchers with us just in time for the summer.

See Library • Page 11

from page 9

looking into scaling back services, such as fire protection and road maintenance, and consider other cost-saving measures.

Cities and villages may not get hit as hard, but the cut would still be substantial, said Chardon City Manager Ben Young, estimating the city would lose around $3 million.

Young said reductions to programs such as sidewalk and shade tree initiatives would likely be necessary, and city officials could consider increasing the income tax, potentially by an amount comparable to the Char-

Library

from page 10

Make them as colorful as you want to liven up any room. Feel free to bring any shape of cookie cutter you'd like if you want a specific shape. Registration is required.

Coding Club

May 26 • 4 p.m.

Students from grades 3 through 5 are invited to join us for the coding club. Using Code.org, we will learn the basics of how to code. No prior coding knowledge is required and laptops will be provided. Please register to attend. This project was made possible in part by the Institute of Museum and Library Services and the State Library of Ohio.

Summer Reading 2026:

Unearth a Story

May 28 through July 18

The annual Summer Reading program

don Fire Department’s operating levy.

At a county level, Geauga County Commissioner Carolyn Brakey has said the county’s general fund — about 24% of which comes from property taxes — would be unable to absorb increased demand.

Ohio Gov. Mike DeWine has previously warned the state sales tax could increase to 20% if property taxes were eliminated.

In Geauga County, sales tax would have to rise to 21% to offset the loss of property tax revenue, Auditor Chuck Walder has said.

Brakey added the county would likely need to make significant cuts, beginning with services that are not required by law.

During the press conference, Massie also

is for all ages and everyone logs their reading on the READsquared app. Kids log the number of minutes that they read, with each minute equal to one point. Earn 1000 points to complete Summer Reading. Kids also earn 50 points for each event that they register for and attend. Kids earn a raffle ticket for every 100 points they earn, to use in the raffle on the app. Adults can also get in on the fun, by logging the number of books that they read. The last day to log your reading will be July 18.

Summer Reading Kickoff

With Herps Alive

May 30 • 10:30 a.m.

Families, kick off Summer Reading 2026 with Herps Alive, who will bring a dozen or so reptiles and amphibians for us to meet. Fun fact, 'herps' is short for 'herpetofauna', which means reptiles and amphibians. Every child who attends will receive 50 points toward their Summer Reading goal. Please register for this event.

Classifieds

GARAGE/ESTATE SALES

Trunk-To-You Community Garage Sale: Saturday May 30th, 9am-2pm. Rain or Shine. The Metzenbaum Center, 8200 Cedar Rd. Come find some treasures!

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.

criticized the property valuation system, saying those responsible for appraisals are not accountable to taxpayers.

“Ladies and gentlemen, I submit, that’s what the Boston Tea Party was in 1773,” he said. “By getting the government out of the business of property evaluation, we may discover that we do not need an auditor and a treasurer in every county.”

Massie said he had been ignored and censored when attempting to engage with elected officials on property tax issues, leading to the formation of the coalition.

Private property ownership is fundamental to freedom and liberty, allowing families to pass wealth between generations, he said.

Massie accused state legislators of violating their oath of office and failing to uphold the Ohio Constitution.

“We, therefore, are introducing today a new Ohioan’s Declaration of Independence,” he said. “So that the legislators know that we

want our freedom and liberty for this and future generations.”

Massie then read the declaration, which describes private property ownership as an unalienable right, demands legislators abide by their oath of office and frames the abolishment of property taxes as necessary to preserve freedom and liberty.

Massie signed the document at a desk modeled after the Resolute Desk.

“My message to our state legislators and to our governor: Can you hear us now?” he said. “It is no longer acceptable to accept the status quo that you have thrust upon the citizens of Ohio.”

When asked how the state would replace revenue lost from property taxes, Massie said it would not.

“As (Lake County Commissioner John Plecnik) says, ‘The first thing that they must do is cut spending,’” he said.

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