Thursday, January 23, 2025
Vol. 31 No. 4 • Chardon, Ohio www.geaugamapleleaf.com
$1.25
Aquilla: Tying Up Loose Ends
Village Audits from ‘21, ‘22 Completed
By Ann WishArt Ann@kArlovecmediA com
The dissolution of Aquilla Village, a process initiated in June 2024, became a reality shortly after residents voted in favor of it in November.
Navigating all the paperwork,
Flooding Closes Geauga Theater Temporarily
Productions Paused for Building Repairs
By Allison Wilson Wilson@kArlovecmediA com
Flooding on multiple floors of the Geauga Theater last week caused significant damage to the historic building, which had to close its doors temporarily for repairs, Chardon officials announced in a press release Jan. 16.
“On Friday, Jan. 10, 2025, a
second-floor heat exchange unit line froze and split, which caused flooding of the first, second and basement floors of the Geauga Theater,” the release said. Damage was also done to the boiler system.
Paul Davis Restoration, a com pany that provides emergency restoration services, was on scene ga Theater, causing flood damage on several floors.
See Theater • Page 5
See Aquilla • Page 3
Russell Trustees Reach Stalemate On Rambo Replacement
By emmA mAcniven
mAcniven@kArlovecmediA com
The fate of Russell Township’s empty trustee seat now rests in the hands of Geauga County Juvenile and Probate Court Judge Tim Grendell.
“We could not come to an agreement for a candidate for a trustee,” Russell Township Trustee Kristina Port said following an executive session during a special meeting Jan. 21.
Former Trustee Matt Rambo, who was elected as Geauga County Common Pleas judge last November, vacated the position when he took office Jan. 1.
Per the Ohio Revised Code, Port and Trustee Jim Mueller have See Russell • Page 4
A Sweet Geauga Culture Blair
Recalls Burton Chamber’s History with Maple Syrup
rt
rlovecmediA com
Maple syrup is golden in Geauga County.
No one knows that better than Tom Blair Sr., a Geauga County native, Burton businessman and village council member who has been part of the area’s maple syrup culture through thick and thin for nearly
“Maple syrup-making gets in your blood,” he said during a recent interview.
Sitting by a fire in the Burton Chamber of Commerce log cabin on Burton Square, Tom, 81, shared his earliest memories of tapping sugar maple trees in the front yard of his family’s farm, boiling it down to what he now knows was substandard syrup.
“We made some god-awful syrup — but it was sweet,” he laughed.
While in high school — now the Bur ton Library — Tom said he would be called out of study hall to help empty buckets of sap from the trees on the square across the street.
After high school, he drove trucks
See Syrup • Page 4
Transitional Living Center Receiving Some TLC page 6 Commissioners Strike Down 3rd Grendell Request page 5
Kenston Schools Implements Anonymous Reporting System page 7
Sports pages 12-14
Sheriff’s Sales & Legal Notices page 17
Classifieds page 20
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: Jan. 23, 9:30 a.m., Geauga County Commissioners; Jan. 27, 1:30 p.m., Geauga Family First Council, Room B168; Jan. 28, 9:30 a.m., Geauga County Commissioners. 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 Suite 350. Bainbridge Township: Jan. 27, 7 p.m., Board of Trustees; Jan. 28, 6 p.m., Zoning Commission. All meetings are held at Town Hall,
17826 Chillicothe Road, unless noted.
Burton Village: Jan. 27, 7 p.m., Village Council. All meetings are held at 14588 W. Park St., 2nd Floor, unless otherwise noted.
Chardon City: Jan. 28, 6:30 p.m., Planning Commission. All meetings are held at Municipal Center, 111 Water St., unless otherwise noted.
Chester Township: Jan. 23, 6 p.m. – Board of Trustees, 7 p.m. – Board of Zoning Appeals, Zoning Commission and Board of Trustees, combined meeting. All meetings are held at Township Hall, 12701 Chillicothe Road, unless otherwise noted.
Claridon Township: Jan. 27, 7 p.m., Zoning Commission, at Claridon Administrative Building, 13932 Mayfield Road.
Huntsburg Township: Jan. 28, 7 p.m., Zoning Commission. All meetings are held at the Town Hall, 16534 Mayfield Road.
Munson Township: Jan. 28, 6:30 p.m., Board of Trustees. All meetings are held at Township Hall, 12210 Auburn Road, unless otherwise noted.
Newbury Township: Jan. 23, 4 p.m., Board of Trustees, special meeting followed by regular session. All meetings are held at the Town Hall, 14899 Auburn Road, unless otherwise noted.
South Russell Village: Jan. 27, 7 p.m., Village Council. All meetings are held at the Village Hall, 5205 Chillicothe Road, unless otherwise noted.
Thompson Township: Jan. 27, 6:30 p.m., Land Use Plan Committee, at Townhall, 6741 Madison Road.
Chardon BOE: Jan. 27, 5:30 p.m., regular meeting. All meetings held at Ira A. Canfield Building, 428 North St., Chardon, unless otherwise noted.
Freezing Temps Close Geauga Schools Jan. 21, 22
stAff report
All five Geauga County public schools announced they would be closed Jan. 21 and 22 due to the inclement weather and wind chill.
Chardon, Claridon, Berkshire, Kenston and West Geauga school districts all announced on their respective social media pages they would be closed Tuesday and Wednesday.
The National Weather Service issued an extreme cold warning for portions of north
Aquilla
from page 1
Pattie Fisher, fiscal officer for the Village of Jefferson in Ashtabula County, has been clearing up Aquilla’s fiscal books at the request of former Aquilla Mayor Rich Wolfe.
“The state likes a lot of paperwork,” she said in a recent interview.
She and Geauga County Auditor Chuck Walder have been following the advice of attorney Pierce Leary — who the transition board appointed as the receiver — to make sure the former village becomes part of Claridon Township in accordance with the new law.
“Correctness is more important than speed,” Walder said after the board’s weekly meeting Jan. 16. “The advice of counsel (Leary) was: Slow down and do it right. Unfortunately, it’s like watching grass grow.”
Some things will happen on schedule, though. The 2024 tax bills for those properties in the Aquilla community are expected to go out on time near the end of January, he said.
“The tax bills to the former Aquilla Village folks will look like last year’s (bills),” Walder said, adding the revaluation that occurred in 2023 for all of Geauga may make some of those property values go up a bit.
But, in January 2026, property taxes on the former village parcels will be substantially lower, as those properties will be in the township by then, he said.
Lower taxes helped convince Aquilla residents to vote in favor of dissolution, Wolfe said in a previous interview.
“Also, the two levies not passed last year will not be collected. I don’t think we’ll see many complaints from the Aquilla folks,” Walder said.
The village council and Wolfe decided not to run the fire levies in light of a probable
central, northeast and northwest Ohio, as well as northwest Pennsylvania until 10 a.m. Jan. 22., with wind chills as low as 27 degrees below zero expected in some areas.
“The cold wind chills as low as 25 below zero could cause frostbite on exposed skin in as little as 30 minutes,” the NWS warned. “Frostbite and hypothermia will occur if unprotected skin is exposed to these temperatures. An extended period of freezing temperatures could cause ruptured water pipes. Wind chill values can lead to hypothermia
dissolution. Chardon Fire Department will continue to cover the community as before, with the Claridon fire levy being assessed on their 2025 tax bills.
Various parts of the dissolution puzzle include sorting out the former village’s fiscal matters, which were not up to date.
Fisher reported audits of the village books for 2021 and 2022 have been closed and bills for services and salaries have been caught up, including the former mayor’s stipend. She is continuing to prepare audits for the last two years.
“The village had gone through three fiscal officers in more than a year,” she said. “The books have not been balanced since May.”
For 27 years, Fisher served as Jefferson’s fiscal officer, but was unfamiliar with Geauga County.
“I never knew Aquilla Village existed until I got a phone call,” she said. “There’s a lot of history here.”
with prolonged exposure.”
NWS recommended anyone going out in the elements to dress in layers, including a hat, face mask and gloves and to wrap or drain pipes, or allow them to drip slowly to prevent them from freezing.
“Keep pets indoors as much as possible. Make frequent checks on older family, friends and neighbors,” NWS said. “Ensure portable heaters are used correctly. Do not use generators or grills inside. Use caution while traveling outside.”
The community developed on the shore of Lake Aquilla to provide vacation homes for Cleveland-area residents. It was part of Claridon Township until it incorporated.
Fisher, who first visited Aquilla in September, said she was waiting for the state auditor to get back to her on the 2023 and 2024 audits and is enthusiastic about the experience of working through the process.
“I’m learning something new. This is a first for me. We just made history,” she said.
Fisher is finishing her reports, but there is more to be done and she doesn’t expect the process to be complete until April.
She has met with Claridon Township Trustee Jonathan Tiber, who is working with the transition board, and said she is pleased with the cooperation between the various parties.
“This is a wonderful community,” she said. “These guys really work together. It’s going to be a good outcome.”
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from page 1
for 25 years for Cleveland Freight Lines, owned by Carl Munn, and then for Blair Cartage in Newbury — both now defunct.
His father, Ken Blair Sr., was a member of the Burton Chamber of Commerce. Ken and Virginia Blair attended the chamber meetings and, when his father passed away in 1974, Tom started going to the monthly gatherings with his mother.
In 1984, Tom learned Chuck Molnar, a chamber member, wanted to sell Geauga Door Sales and Service. They struck a deal and Tom became a business owner, conveniently less than a mile from the chamber’s log cabin on the square.
In fact, there are two cabins on the square. The cabin on the north side is set up for production with a reverse osmosis machine that removes water from the sap, transforming it into Geauga County’s famous golden liquid, Tom said.
The southern cabin, built in the 1960s and connected to its neighbor by a portico, is the visitors’ center and retail store where tourists and locals alike buy a wide variety of items produced in and around the county.
Both cabins are built of oak logs chinked with cement to keep the weather out. Dark plank doors welcome visitors to the retail cabin and a stone fireplace warms the pioneer spirit of tourists and the chamber’s three employees behind the counter.
The original cabin on the square was built in the 1920s, after chamber members visited the Lincoln Cabin in Kentucky, Tom recalled, adding they came home and designed a structure reminiscent of that cabin.
Burton Chamber Supports the
Sue Wayman, president of the board of directors of the Burton Chamber of Commerce, said the chamber organizes a variety of events during the year be sides producing and selling gallons of maple syrup and other local maple prod ucts at the cabin on the square.
Those events include the Easter Egg Hunt, Burton Country Christmas, Satur days in the Country, Burton Fall Festival and Santa Claus at the Cabin. The cham ber also co-sponsors the Halloween pa rade on village square, she said.
The chamber owns the name Pan cake Town USA and holds pancake breakfasts every Sunday in March, Way man said.
The Burton Chamber of Commerce is community oriented, Wayman said, adding it sponsors scholarships to stu dents who graduate from Berkshire Schools or the Agape Christian Acade my and go on to attend Kent State Uni versity – Geauga.
Wayman owns and manages Coffee Corners Antiques and Coffee House with her husband, Jerry, and has been a chamber member since 1998, according to the chamber website.
event is scheduled for Feb. 8, Tom said.
sap, Tom said.
Demand for the syrup keeps the tradition alive.
The chamber’s annual Tree Tappin’ Ceremony on the square usually coordinates with the rise of sap in the maple trees. This year,
After it burned in the late 1950s, the chamber rebuilt along the same lines and continued using the rather cramped space for production.
LEGAL NOTICE
SPECIAL ELECTION - MAY 6, 2025
3503.01, 3503.12, 3503.16, 3503.19
NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN THAT RESIDENTS OF GEAUGA COUNTY WHO WILL HAVE RESIDED IN OHIO FOR AT LEAST 30 DAYS PRIOR TO THE SPECIAL ELECTION AND WHO WILL BE 18 YEARS OF AGE OR OVER ON OR BEFORE MAY 6, 2025 (SPECIAL ELECTION) MAY REGISTER TO VOTE AT THE FOLLOWING LOCATIONS:
GEAUGA COUNTY BOARD OF ELECTIONS 470 Center Street – Bldg. 6 Chardon, Ohio 440-279-2030
REGISTRATION OFFICE HOURS
REGULAR HOURS: Monday thru Friday - 8:00 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.
EXTENDED HOURS: APRIL 7, 2025 – Registration Deadline – 8:00 a.m. to 9:00 p.m
AT ANY STATE OR LOCAL OFFICE OF A DESIGNATED AGENCY, AT THE OFFICE OF THE REGISTRAR OR A DEPUTY REGISTRAR OF MOTOR VEHICLES, AT A PUBLIC HIGH SCHOOL OR VOCATIONAL SCHOOL, AT A PUBLIC LIBRARY, AT THE OFFICE OF THE COUNTY TREASURER, OR THE OFFICE OF THE SECRETARY OF STATE.
DEADLINE FOR REGISTRATION IS MONDAY, APRIL 7, 2025
REQUESTS FOR REGISTRATION FORMS MAY BE MADE BY MAIL, IN PERSON, BY TELEPHONE OR THROUGH ANOTHER PERSON. REQUESTS MAY BE SENT TO OR DROPPED OFF TO THE GEAUGA COUNTY BOARD OF ELECTIONS, 470 CENTER ST., BLDG. 6, CHARDON, OH 44024. PERSONS WHO HAVE ALREADY REGISTERED IN ANY COUNTY IN THE STATE OF OHIO, BUT HAVE MOVED TO AN ADDRESS IN GEAUGA COUNTY MAY FILE A CHANGE OF ADDRESS FORM WITH THE BOARD OF ELECTIONS, THE OFFICE OF THE REGISTRAR OR A DEPUTY REGISTRAR OF MOTOR VEHICLES, A PUBLIC HIGH SCHOOL OR VOCATIONAL SCHOOL, A PUBLIC LIBRARY, THE OFFICE OF COUNTY TREASURER, THE OHIO SECRETARY OF STATE, OR OTHER DESIGNATED AGENCIES OR COMPLETE A CHANGE OF ADDRESS ON-LINE AT www.MyOhioVote.com BY APRIL 7, 2025. BY ORDER OF THE GEAUGA COUNTY BOARD OF ELECTIONS MICHELLE LANE, DIRECTOR JAN23, 2025
The amount of sap the Burton Square maples yield is only a fraction of what the chamber needs to answer the public’s demand for syrup, maple sugar and maple candy.
“We buy from local suppliers,” Tom said.
In January, the chamber sends out letters to those who tap trees in a sugar bush asking how many stainless steel barrels they expect to need. The tapper will return the enclosed card and the barrels will be delivered to them in time to be filled with 50 to 60 gallons of
Russell from page 1
until Jan. 31 to appoint someone to the post, otherwise the decision goes to the probate court, Port previously said.
“I am not happy about that,” Mueller said during Tuesday’s meeting, referring to Grendell’s involvement. “He is not a friend of Russell Township.”
Port and Mueller considered eight candidates for the role, including Bryan Kostura, Trent Meteer, Christopher Hare, Jonathan Stockdale, Jim Dickinson, Tom Warren, former Trustee Gary Gabram and Vice-Chairman of the Russell Township Board of Zoning Appeals Barry Rogers.
Once the decision goes to Grendell, he
“The end of March or the beginning of April, we pick them up, full. Then, we start,” he said.
Scott Adams and other chamber volunteers collect the barrels, process the sap and put the sweet stuff back in the barrels for future sale, he added.
“We can it as we need it,” Tom said, gesturing to the containers of syrup for sale in the cabin. “When the shelves get empty, we fill them up.”
will have 30 days to make an appointment, Port previously said.
In other business, trustees passed a motion to extend Strollo Architects construction services for the new Russell Township community room until Feb. 28.
Fiscal Officer Karen Walder also announced Russell received a $13,295 Northeast Ohio Public Energy Council grant and has a little over $3,000 left from the 2024 grant they received.
“The NEC grant program provides funding for vital energy efficiency and infrastructure projects that help member communities reduce their energy consumption,” NOPEC said on its website.
Walder urged trustees to start thinking about projects for the grant money.
ANN WISHART/KMG
The Burton Chamber of Commerce prize-winning maple syrup is produced in the chamber’s log cabin on Burton Square.
Commissioners Strike Down 3rd Grendell Request
By Allison Wilson Wilson@kArlovecmediA com
Geauga County Commissioners’ crackdown on Geauga County Probate and Juvenile Court Judge Tim Grendell continued as they voted not to pay his upcoming travel expenses during their Jan. 14 meeting.
Grendell had recently requested the county pay for his accommodations to attend the Ohio Supreme Court oral arguments regarding a disciplinary case brought against him related to his handling of juvenile cases.
Per the Ohio Supreme Court docket, Grendell’s oral argument is scheduled for Feb. 13.
The commissioners’ decision comes on the heels of them denying Grendell’s request for the county to pay for his legal fees related to the same case.
“It’s a relatively minor expense, I think it’s $464, but I consider that personal expense that the taxpayers should not shoulder,” Commissioner Carolyn Brakey said.
In September, the Ohio Board of Professional Conduct found Grendell engaged in blatant, deliberate and egregious misconduct related to his handling of juvenile cases, specifically involving a situation where he ordered two teenage brothers into juvenile detention for refusing to visit their father. The board recommended he immediately be removed from the bench and the matter is
Theater from page 1
by that evening and began dewatering and drying the building, officials said in the statement, adding as the building’s heat source has been compromised, supplemental heating units have also been provided.
“It is anticipated that restoration and replacement of equipment could take up to two months,” city officials said in the release. “Until further notice, the Geauga Theater will remain closed.”
The city is continuing to work with PDR on drying, heating and damage assessment, said City Manager Randy Sharpe in a Jan. 17 email.
“We hope to have initial pricing by the middle of next week,” he said.
As of Jan. 16, the city’s insurance had assigned two adjusters, one to handle claims for the building and the other for the boiler system, he said.
“We have no preliminary estimates or educated guesses on a restoration cost. It should be noted that the system in place (the heat exchanger) is 1937 vintage and replacement parts are no longer available,” he said.
Damage is contained to the northwest corner of the building, including the heat exchanger on the second floor, the men’s bathroom under that and the boiler system under that. There has been no damage to the theater itself, Sharpe said.
The news comes in the wake of Chardon-based arts organization Curtain 440 announcing their entire upcoming season would be played on the Geauga stage.
A production of “Murder on the Orient Express” was set to open at the theater Feb. 14.
“The cast of ‘Murder on the Orient Express’ continues rehearsing, but we are currently pausing ticket sales until we have a better idea of when the Geauga Theater will be reopened. We remain intent on this show
at a different location, C440 said in its post.
“Thank you to the City of Chardon for quickly addressing this situation,” the company concluded. “We are excited to continue our 2025 season when we are able.”
In addition, Russel-based arts organization Fairmount Center for the Arts had a faculty showcase slated for the stage March 8.
“While we remain optimistic that the Fairmount Faculty Showcase will go on as planned on March 8, we are in the process of securing an alternative location to use if needed. We are committed to bringing Fairmount programs to the Geauga Theater in 2025 and 2026, even if it means doing so later than originally planned,” Executive Director Elizabeth Bolander said in an email Jan. 16.
Bolander was saddened to hear the news about the theater and expressed sympathy for C440.
The Geauga Theater was built in 1939 and operated as a movie theater until its original closure in 1996.
It has undergone major renovations previously, first by the Geauga Lyric Theater Guild in 2001 and 2019, and then by Thrive Performing and Visual Arts after the city
Transitional Living Center Receiving Some TLC
By Allison Wilson Wilson@kArlovecmediA com
Despite some delays due to the cold and snow, progress on the Transitional Living Center expansion has been steadily underway since its groundbreaking in November, said Christine Lakomiak Jan. 15.
“The TLC provides stabilization and restorative services to persons needing a diversion or transition from a psychiatric hospital or to prevent psychiatric admission,” Lakomiak, executive director of the Geauga County Board of Mental Health and Recovery Services, explained in a followup email Jan. 17.
Board members have been putting in an enormous amount of time, Lakomiak said during last Wednesday’s meeting, expressing gratitude for their work.
“The last couple of weeks, we have been postponed because of the weather. However, we are making progress, they have been able to continue to do work even though it’s been cold,” she said. “We were hoping to be done by Nov. 6, but it may be pushed to December.”
The TLC’s existing building is approximately 3,600 square feet, Lakomiak said in her email.
“We expect the expansion to be an additional 4,000 square feet to accommodate the increased number of beds, from nine to 16, and also increase the required support spaces to bring the building up to current standards and compliance,” she said, adding it will also provide a kitchen and multipurpose group room.
“Other new spaces to be provided by the expansion include a new family visitation room, new staff respite room, new quiet/sensory room, basement storage for resident possessions and bulk foods, and a new exterior covered deck area for resident use,” she said.
The TLC provides a safe and supervised alternative to hospitalization and focuses on restoring necessary skills for success with a lower level of care, she said.
“The program offers a 24/7 supervised living environment with services that include
counseling, medication management, case management, peer support and also linkage to community support,” she said. “The TLC also provides linkage to clinical services, resource navigation assistance and on-site support services as residents move through three program levels to restore or enhance the living skills needed to maintain long-term independence in their community.”
Millstone Management, costs approximately $2,850,000 and was made possible through a partnership between the GCBMRC and Ohio Department of Mental Health and Addiction Services, she said.
cating funds to Ravenwood Health.
and Stimulant Response Grant) was handled differently this year,” Lakomiak said to the board. “Agencies apply directly for the funding. The agencies last time we had a meeting, I think they hadn’t found out how much
“This goes back to a couple of years ago, I said sooner or later, this grant money’s gonna be going away,” he said. “So, the agencies
ought to be taking a look at that because the grant dollars are going to be diminishing, I would think, over the next four years.”
The board discussed a significant increase in inpatient hospitalizations for adults.
“Inpatient hospitalizations for adults has really increased a lot, skyrocketed, and I have looked at the numbers in Geauga County and I don’t — from the history of when records are still kept, I don’t believe there’s ever been an amount this high,” Lakomiak said.
Last fiscal year, the board used all of its state funding for inpatient hospitalizations, she said, adding this fiscal year, the funding has already been depleted, despite the fiscal year only being halfway through.
In her Jan. 17 email, Lakomiak said in fiscal year 2024, they paid for the inpatient psychiatric care of 13 individuals. They’re only five months into fiscal year 2025 and have already hit that number.
“So, we have to make a recommendation to bring some of our local money in to help pay for hospital inpatient,” she said during the meeting. “It’s our requirement as a board. However, we have asked for additional funding in the hospital assistance program line item and I know that other boards have,
While the state has not given an answer on additional funding on the line item, Lakomiak said the board heard from someone at the state working to see if they can provide more funding for hospital access.
“If that happens, we would use that funding rather than the levy dollars,” she said.
Board member Mary Ruth Shumway asked if the determination of what requires hospitalization had changed, to which Lakomiak said no.
This is a problem across the state, Lakomiak said, noting inpatient numbers have been brought up at a variety of boards she has met with.
The board passed a resolution allocating an additional $60,000 for state fiscal year 2025 crisis stabilization and hospitalization inpatient expenses.
Newbury’s Oberland Park Bathroom Plans Run Into Clog
By emmA mAcniven
mAcniven@kArlovecmediA.com
Newbury Township Trustee Bill Skom-
rock recently said the bathroom installation at Oberlin Park may be on hold.
Newbury Township Trustees have discussed installing Green Flush bathrooms
into Oberlin Park at 14639 Auburn Road since last fall using a $100,000 Ohio State Capital Improvement grant. The bathrooms are a self-contained unit that use potable water and would take over the port-a-potties that are there now.
However, plans seem to have stalled after the Ohio Department of Health told trustees the tank in the bathroom has to be 1,000 gallons, Skomrock said during the Jan. 15 trustees meeting.
pounds, right?” he said.
Skomrock said Green Flush is investigating the requirement as they have other amenities in Ohio.
“We have restrooms in Ohio that use hauled water and have the 135-gallon tank for potable water,” Green Flush said in an email. Metroparks is one of them.”
“I don't even know where to begin because I'm so frustrated about that 125 gallon potable water storage tank. It's got to be a 1,000 gallon one,” Skomrock said. “This health department doesn't seem willing to budge on the 1,000 gallon tank.”
The plan was to have the bathrooms installed by the annual car show in the summer.
“Is that four-inch concrete floor gonna hold 1,000 gallons of water? That's 8,000
Green Flush also said since the bathrooms aren’t being used for human consumption, they don't think the 1,000 gallon requirement should apply.
Skomrock said the Ohio Department of Natural Resources would also like to take over the park property and facilities during the duration of the bathroom construction.
“They're holding us hostage,” he said. “Every time you think you're a step ahead, you’ve got to go three steps backwards. (It’s) just very frustrating.”
Budget Commission Cleaning Up Dormant Funds
By Allison Wilson Wilson@kArlovecmediA com
The Geauga County Budget Commission approved county tax rates for 2024 and discussed a policy to eliminate dormant funds during a Jan. 15 special meeting.
Tax bills will go out a week later than usual, said Treasurer Chris Hitchcock, who sits on the commissioner with county Auditor Chuck Waldler and county Prosecutor Jim Flaiz.
Rates appear to be as anticipated, Walder said, with Flaiz adding he’s received questions as to why last year’s rates were impacted as they were.
“It was because of equalization,” Flaiz said. “Our (revaluation), while the state imposes a county-wide percentage, within the county, ours was based on reality and home sales, which along the (state Route) 306 corridor were higher.”
The biggest decrease in effective rate was Aquilla Village, with a variance of - 6.5, while the largest increase was Bainbridge Township-Kenston Schools district at 5.7.
The impact in both cases is from levies, Walder said — Aquilla saw two drop off the ballot, while Bainbridge saw two additional levies pass.
Regarding dormant funds, commission members were each given a print-out of funds showing those with no increase or decrease in two years marked red.
An additional column meant to indicate a fund’s last activity was blank — money could have gone in or out in a period of time they didn’t capture, Walder noted.
“This will be our first attempt at starting a clean-up process,” he said.
Walder asked Flaiz to mark the funds he thought should be interrogated and said they would have to check if funds can be deactivated.
“There are some funds in there that have balances. We have to go through a statutory process,” Walder added.
Per a 2011 opinion by former county Prosecutor Dave Joyce, funds have to be moved into a trust category where they sit for five years before being transferred to the general fund.
“We have not been diligent in doing that,” Walder said. “There was some consternation of previous administrations who just elected to not go down that road.”
He said he suspected administrators had reservations about having to explain to taxpayers why there’s money sitting in the treasury.
“Let’s say the parks wrote a check to a vendor for $10,000. Let’s say that vendor never cashed that check for some reason. It then goes into unclaimed funds and the clock starts for five years,” he said. “The parks is no longer under our authority, so even if somebody were to approach us and say remit it, we don’t have the resources to remit it because now it’s in unclaimed funds. After five years, unclaimed funds moves it to the general fund.”
Other funds use the same process, he said.
“Transit’s a good example. There may be residual money from transit that comes in and we can’t remit it out and it just sits there. It sits there indefinitely,” Walder said. “There’s many of these funds that could have happened to.”
The situation is explainable, but he doesn’t know all the history, he said.
Hitchcock drew attention to a red-marked fund labeled “Sick and Vacation Accrual” with $400,000 in it.
“I think there are funds that were created with great intention. This is one of them. The question is, has anybody ever tapped that fund for that purpose, and if not, then it’s only a mechanism to shelter money,” Walder said.
Paring down the list will also prompt them to explore better uses for those funds, he added. He estimated the work would take about a year.
Red-marked funds include a Wetland Mitigation Bank Fund at $62,907, Youth Center at $111,062 and Courthouse Donation Fund at $169,441.
The donation fund money was leftover from a class action lawsuit a former judge presided over, Flaiz said.
The law firm had put in the settlement agreement that remaining money would go to that fund.
“I’d like to take a whole page off this thing. That’s my goal,” Flaiz said. “This is government at its worst.”
America 250 Geauga Ramps Up for July 4, 2026
By Ann WishArt Ann@kArlovecmediA com
Though a year and a half away, Geauga County’s America 250 committee met Jan. 15 to start gearing up for the country’s semiquincentennial July 4, 2026.
Ideas flew around the tables as more than 30 representatives from various government entities, local organizations and area agencies started to create a county-wide framework of events and efforts focused around Independence Day 2026.
Geauga County Commissioner Jim Dvorak started the ball rolling in December with information he gathered at the Ohio County Commissioners’ Winter Conference last year.
At the committee meeting last week, he partnered with Andrew Mizsak, president of the Geauga County Historical Society, who offered to serve as secretary and coordinate the various celebrations already in place.
“Send me your events. I’ll compile a master calendar and keep it going,” he said. “The key is to keep communicating.”
He proposed initiating a social media cam-
paign to build awareness and enthusiasm. If people send in their favorite historical Geauga sites, they will be posted on the website along with a distinct logo for the project — yet to be designed.
The committee will work to be designated a member of the AM 250-OH Communities Program, which will provide an America 250 flag and other merchandise, Mizsak said. Grants for the project may be available, he said.
Ruth Cavanagh, of South Russel Village, said she has been working on a grant application. She noted during the bicentennial celebration in 1976, Auburn Township had a covered wagon on display.
“A covered wagon sounds intriguing. Maybe the (Ohio) Farm Bureau can find one sitting in a barn,” Dvorak said.
Susan Parker, with the Chardon Area Chamber of Commerce, suggested building up to July 4, 2026, by organizing multiple events around historic themes-of-the-month, such as transportation, education, employment, outdoor recreation and agriculture.
Dvorak said in an interview after the
meeting he’s working on having a time capsule placed in a wall of the addition to the Geauga County Courthouse.
He also wants to include the Amish population, which makes up nearly 1/5th of Geauga County, in the planning process.
“I want an Amish contingent. We have about 19,000 Amish in Geauga County,” Dvorak said, noting it is the second largest Amish population in Ohio.
The committee will meet again at 2:30 p.m. Feb. 19 at the Geauga County Library Administration Office.
years of American independence, according to the America 250 website.
The goal of the Ohio 250 commission is to have at least 250 communities designated as official AM 250-OH Communities, creating hundreds of engaging opportunities to celebrate and commemorate the 250th anniversary of the U.S.
The America 250 project, led by the U.S. Semiquincentennial Commission, reached an agreement in August of 2021 with 20 federal agencies for cooperation on the multiyear effort. Hosted by the Library of Congress, an inter-agency memorandum of understanding was signed to support activities marking 250
“We are inviting all levels of communities (counties, cities, villages and townships) from across the state to apply to be an official AM 250-OH Community,” the site said. “This special designation from the AM 250-OH Commission provides an opportunity for local leaders to network, partner and exchange information with the state commission team. Communities will receive access to resources like digital toolkits, an online community platform and regular check-ins with other AM 250-OH Communities; recognition of your participation in AM250-OH celebrations and commemorations; as well as the opportunity to develop and grow professionally and personally.”
Kenston Implements Anonymous Reporting System
By emmA mAcniven mAcniven@kArlovecmediA com
Kenston Schools will soon be incorporating an anonymous reporting system called STOPit to allow students and parents to report issues like suicidal tendencies, or substance or alcohol abuse to school administrators while protecting their identities.
“If you experience or are a witness to something you would like to report, simply open the app, tap the report button where you can send a message, photo, screenshot or video evidence to people that can help,” the company said in a video Superintendent Bruce Willingham played during the Jan. 13 Kenston Schools Board of Education meeting.
for in the past.
“Let's say a kid is really going through something very, very difficult at the time. They don't have to necessarily report it because there's another button as an option that you can get to a crisis counselor,” he said.
While users are able to communicate with someone on the website or app live, administration is also notified.
“Once you put in what some of the issues are, the principals will have the ability — they'll be notified via email — but also have the ability to clarify some of the details,” Willingham said.
He explained there will be a line of succession if a principal doesn’t pick up the call.
earlier in the year,” he said. “So it could be a Saturday night. If a principal doesn't pick up, I'll get that phone call.”
He said they expect to be inundated with reports at first as students would be testing it.
Willingham said the program costs $10,000 per year and the money is coming from grant funds.
Following the superintendent’s presentation, Michael Spradling, of Bainbridge Township, expressed concerns about bullying in the district.
“My conclusion, reached by over two dozen parent interviews, is that bullying is a long standing issue and it's been ingrained as a socially-acceptable behavior, especially within the football teams, resulting in ineffective management of this topic,” Spradling said.
called the Kenston Families United group.
“I'm not naive to think that bullying will ever completely be removed from our kids' lives, but it's far too rampant against them,” he said. “Policies for suspending a student for self-defense is absurd and is an example of a policy intent that causes more harm than good, a policy that further strips a child of their dignity.
“My recommendations to parents will be the same as the lawyer has given me: file police reports and warranted charges,” he continued. “It's a shame we must consider these options, but the students at Kenston are not getting the messages.”
Willingham thanked Spradling for his comments.
Willingham said he’s had experience with the app for six years in a district he worked
“In addition to an email, if there is a really serious situation, they start a call tree, similar to what I explained with Zero Eyes
He said he believes the board’s failure to handle bullying has caused word to spread on a Facebook group of over 500 members
“I know our administrative team and this board take bullying very seriously, and every situation is different,” he said. “I can assure you that these situations are being actively addressed.”
Willingham
South Russell Village
Officials Say ‘No’ Again to Cannabis Dispensaries
By sherry GAvAnditti editor@kArlovecmediA com
South Russell Village Council unanimously approved another one-year moratorium on cannabis-related business in the village during its Jan. 13 meeting.
Anyone seeking a permit relating to retail dispensaries, including cultivators and processors of adult-use cannabis will be turned away, Mayor Bill Koons said, adding the decision to place another one-year ban on marijuana dispensaries was “researched and well thought out.”
“We have prepared for this issue by having good legal advice,” he said. “We have also attended conventions and workshops … on the issue.”
So far, the village has not been approached by anyone looking to open a dispensary in the village, Koons said, adding he hopes none do.
“We realize marijuana is legal in Ohio even with some of the marijuana laws conflicting with federal law,” he said. “(We) have been educating ourselves about marijuana — a controversial topic that has gone main stream. The Ohio Municipal League and the Ohio Mayors Association both do a great job of preparing leaders for what is coming down the road.”
But many cannabis dispensaries have already set up shop in counties surrounding Geauga, including Ashtabula, Lake, Cuyahoga, Summit, Portage and Trumbull.
more likely to be involved in a crash than drug-free drivers.”
South Russell Police Chief Michael Rizzo said his department conducted “only a handful” of OVI arrests in the village, none involving marijuana, in 2024.
“Our OVI occurrences are limited, (less than 10), however, we have not experienced any notable variation,” he said, adding South Russell employs 11 fulltime and four part-time police officers.
where they currently stand, Koons said.
“We knew we did not want that type of business in our village, at least until emotions calmed and laws were smoothly implemented,” he said.
The mayor will continue to explore the pros and cons of welcoming or further banning the cannabis industry in 2026 after the moratorium ends, keeping an eye on possible implications for the village, he said, adding these include legal and financial considerations.
Koons also cited driver safety as a driving force in the decision for the moratorium.
“Driving under the influence is our biggest area of concern,” he said.
According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration website, “drivers under the influence of marijuana are 25%
Ohio Department of Safety statistics showed in 2023, Ohio State Highway Patrol made 739 marijuana-impaired arrests and there were more than 5,000 impaired driving arrests involving drugs other than marijuana or had a combination of other drugs with marijuana.
South Russell officials, however, do not need a study about dispensaries to know
While there would be financial gains from tax revenue, there would also be additional costs to uphold the laws surrounding the sale and use of recreational marijuana, he said.
“We will wait another year to allow emotions to decline and give the state legislature time to resolve any issues they may have with the new law,” he said. “Recreational marijuana, medicinal marijuana — we do not want to be involved.”
Durkee Road Property Owners Lobby Claridon for Help
By Ann WishArt Ann@kArlovecmediA com
The question of who will improve 1.3-milelong Durkee Road went into second gear Jan. 20 when nearly a dozen residents attended the Claridon Township Trustees meeting.
While those residents live in Claridon on the north side of the road, their driveways lead to Durkee, which is in Burton Township.
The unimproved road needs serious attention and resident Adam Miller said when they approached Burton Township Trustees about repairing or paving Durkee, they were told to go lobby Claridon trustees to help pay for the project.
“Burton (trustees) said we were in the wrong meeting,” Miller said.
Claridon Trustee Jonathan Tiber said a few minutes into residents’ comments it would be illegal for Claridon to use Claridon Township tax dollars to have work done on a road in Burton Township.
“We don’t have any plans to do that, nor do we have the authority. It is not our road,” he said, adding trustees could not justify to the township’s 3,000 other residents using road funds on Durkee.
“That would be a hard pill for them to swallow. We’ve never had anything to do with that road. (Burton Township) has had it for decades. If it was our road, as a trustee, I would have saved up money for it,” he said.
Tiber said he consulted with the Geauga County Prosecutor’s Office and has been assured his position is the legally correct one.
Attorney Bob Umholz, who has a residence in Claridon north of Durkee, urged Claridon to get an advisory opinion from the Ohio Attorney General on the matter.
“It seems like the residents on Durkee
Road should look into legal action,” he said.
Umholz said property in Claridon north of Durkee was split into lots to allow residential development and that indicates Claridon has a responsibility for those parcels.
“How could the township zoning board approve the lot splits when there’s no access to a road?” he asked.
Former Claridon Zoning Inspector Chris Alusheff said the law didn’t require that kind of oversight when the splits were approved.
“Before 2021, there was no requirement for a township or county to oversee a subdivision (of lots larger than) 5 acres,” he said, adding those parcels on the Claridon side of Durkee are larger than that.
“Their property lines start at the road right-of-way,” he said.
The right-of-way is about 30 feet north of the middle of Durkee, according to discussion in a previous meeting.
Miller said he believed the lots were split in 2016.
Umholz restated his position.
“Claridon Township allowed the lots to be split. They allowed residents to move onto lots that have no legal access to that road. Claridon has the responsibility because it allowed those lots to be split,” he said.
“I don’t know why they were split,” Tiber said, requesting the discussion stay on topic with paving Durkee.
“I’m not really in favor of paving the road as long as you just make improvements and dust control,” said Claridon resident Joe Miller.
Tiber noted there is a long history regarding the ownership of Durkee.
“In 1850, the county commissioners determined the road belongs to Burton Township, regardless of property lines. Now, all of the sudden, (Burton Township Trustees) want us to spend all this money for something they have ignored for years. Burton Township has had plenty of time to save money. We have one road levy from 1994. We work tight. We get by with very little,” he said. “I am frustrated because I do care about my residents.”
Dominique Miller, wife of Adam Miller, noted Durkee was a cow path in 1850 and they came to Claridon with the issue because they had no support from the Burton trustees.
“Help us figure a way to move forward. You can’t, by law, touch that road. I can’t go to Burton. Burton trustees don’t care about us,” she said.
Alusheff said if Claridon puts tax dollars toward work on Durkee, they would be breaking the law and the problem is not unique.
“Other townships have the same problem. Nobody is forcing anybody to buy property,” he said.
Tiber said trustees want an opinion from a higher level.
“I asked our prosecutor to get an opinion from the state attorney general,” Tiber said, adding, when Umholz pressed, he will also find out if the lot splits have any influence on the matter.
Tiber said he would revisit the Durkee matter with Burton trustees and advocate for the Claridon residents on that road.
County Extends First Half Real Estate Tax Bill Due Date
stAff report
Geauga County taxpayers will have until Feb. 26, 2025, to pay their first-half 2024 real estate tax bill.
“Taxpayers deserve to be given as much notice as possible to plan payment of one of the largest bills they receive every year, their real estate tax bill,” Geauga County Treasurer Christopher P. Hitchcock said in a Jan. 16
press release. “As the tax bill mailing depends on numerous factors outside our control, I have already asked the Ohio Department of Taxation and received permission to extend the tax collection due date to Feb. 26, 2025.”
Amended tax rates due to the dissolution of Aquilla Village and the absorption of those parcels to Claridon Township were received and certified Jan. 15, Hitchcock said.
“While we strive to send bills earlier in
the year, we are bound to the Ohio Revised Code and the Ohio Department of Taxation,” he added.
Amended files were sent to the printer Jan. 16 and bills should be mailed sometime in the next 10 days, the release said.
For those who cannot wait to receive their bill in the mail, upon certification, duplicate tax bills will be available on the county website, www.geaugatax.com, or by calling or com-
ing to the treasurer’s office, the release stated. Payment may be made in cash, money order, check or credit card by calling 1-855-782-3909 or visiting www.geaugatax.com. There is a convenience fee for using the credit card service.
For those who are unable to make full payment, taxpayers are reminded there are several payment programs available. For information call the Geauga County Treasurer’s Office at 440-279-2000.
other Claridon residents, including several Amish residents who own property on Durkee Road, attended the Claridon trustees meeting Jan. 20.
NDCL Student’s Sign Design in Spotlight
By Allison Wilson Wilson@kArlovecmediA com
Notre Dame-Cathedral Latin sophomore Sean Morad has an unusual claim to fame — his design was chosen for new welcome signs across Chardon Township.
“The background behind this project is that the township currently has the generic highway sign to let constituents know when they’ve entered the township,” Trustee Jacob Cimperman said. “I wanted to look into cre ating a welcome sign with a more appealing aesthetic to promote the beauty of Chardon Township.”
An NDCL alumni himself, Cimperman was excited to partner with the school.
Digital design stu dents submitted over 60 signs, he said.
Sean recalled being approached and asked if he would like to participate in the project after helping graphic design and art teacher Ryan Brlecic after school.
the Chardon Township Trustees provided, I introduced my students to a project that mirrored a professional design process,” he said. “They engaged in client intake, developed a design brief, formulated questions, brainstormed solutions and presented their concepts. Their performance exceeded my expectations and goals.”
Sean exemplifies the talent emerging from the design program, Brlecic said.
“Without even thinking about it, I made sure I had all the information about the project and began working at home,” he said. “Design projects are something I like to do in my off time or between work. I can still remember making the first few concepts on my kitchen counter on my laptop. I didn't know then just how far it would bring me.”
Brlecic reflected on the opportunity the project provided his students.
“Leveraging an exciting opportunity
“As a freshman in my design class last year and now as a sophomore, Sean has consistently impressed me with his creativity and dedication. His involvement in Studio 222 — a student-led initiative producing NDCL banners and signs for events — further highlights his knack for design,” he said.
When talking about his creative process for the sign, Sean said he incorporated Chardon’s colors and symbols with a modern theme.
“I first started by researching Chardon and its uniqueness, things like the deer and the date. Then, I put together about three designs, and after asking my family, peers and Mr. B., I locked on to a final design,” he said. “This didn't come simply. I feel as if all good designs come together gradually. They don't become clear until you make progress.”
He didn’t know how to feel at first when his design was selected, he said.
“Many people have used my designs for logos, business cards, shirts and posters,” Sean said. “Then it hit me — so many people would see the sign and I was happy that I was chosen and recognized for the work I did.”
While Sean’s original design featured a red background, concerns were raised about having red signs that aren’t stop signs on the roadways, Cimperman said.
The revision process is like a tune-up, Sean said.
“This process can be so important because things like this can't be reprinted, which makes me even more excited,” he added.
The finished design features the gray silhouette of a deer’s head against a white backdrop and is framed in a gold border.
While Chardon’s classic red and black are still featured, it is as text rather than background color.
Cimperman is currently seeking quotes for the signs. The township hopes to complete the project over the next two years, he said, with roughly 15 signs purchased each year.
Main roads and roads with heavier traffic will be prioritized in the first year.
When Carolyn Brakey was in elementary school during the Reagan era, she had many big dreams, including aspiring to become the first female president of the United States.
“Beyond those commonplace dreams for a young girl, I never seriously considered getting involved in politics until a few years ago,” she said.
Her dream became reality Dec. 17, 2024, as Ohio State Rep. Sarah Fowler Arthur officially sworn Brakey in as Geauga County’s newest commissioner. She took the oath of office with her husband, Matt, and their twins by her side inside Berkshire High School’s gymnasium.
At age 42, it's an honor to become the county’s 121st commissioner and youngest of four females in the county’s history to hold the role, she said.
The apple doesn’t seem to fall far from the tree when Brakey spoke about her passion for supporting communities, serving others and protecting the rights and interests of the public.
Her parents, Susan and Kevin Blake, both retired, served as role models, Brakey said, adding they both dedicated their careers to public service.
Her mother was an educator, holding various positions throughout the years and ultimately retiring as a Head Start director.
Her father worked for the National Resource Conservation Service as a soil conservationist, collaborating closely with farmers
a deserted island,” she said.
Music was also a big part of her adolescence.
“I played the piano, guitar and alto saxophone, which brought me a lot of joy,” Brakey said.
At the turn of the millennium, she graduated from high school and headed to Grove City College to study mechanical engineering — it seemed like a practical choice.
“I loved math, particularly calculus, and wanted a degree that would open doors and keep me intellectually challenged,” Brakey said.
After graduation, she worked as a patent examiner for the United States Patent and Trademark Office. In that role, she frequently interacted with attorneys, all of whom had undergraduate degrees in science, technology, engineering and math fields.
This exposure compelled her to pursue a legal career, earning a juris doctor degree from Case Western Reserve University School of Law.
After working for several area law firms, in 2020, she founded Brakey Law LLC., earning extensive experience representing plaintiffs in class action lawsuits involving electricity billing issues, Brakey said.
She also serves as general counsel to Brakey Energy, which she owns and operates with her husband, the company’s president.
The COVID Effect
icies, I felt the urge to become more active
She wanted to know how decisions were being made and who was making them and
Carolyn Brakey as a senior at Grove City College with her senior capstone project – the designing and manufacturing of a recumbent bicycle.
began attending local political events and joined the Western Reserve Women’s Republican Club.
By early 2022, many Geauga County schools, including the one her twins attended, still had mask mandates and quarantine procedures in place, she said.
Frustrated by policies she felt were contrary to science, health and liberty, she sought and secured an appointment on the Geauga County Board of Health in March 2022 and was unanimously elected president one year later.
“The role gave me an opportunity to advocate for common sense policies for families, individuals and businesses,” she said.
Matt Brakey said time and again, his wife shows real results come from the courage to do what’s right, even when it’s uncomfortable, and from prioritizing meaningful action over grandstanding.
Geauga Public Health Administrator Adam Litke said when working with Brakey, she quickly distinguished herself as an inquisitive and community-oriented person unafraid to ask tough questions, seek advice and listen to community concerns, while always striving for positive change.
“Her dedication to improving our community transcended personal interests and petty squabbles,” Litke said. “Mrs. Brakey has been an invaluable asset to the board of health. While the phrase 'irreplaceable' is often used lightly, it truly applies in her case. Her departure has been deeply felt."
Brakey’s dedication reaches beyond her public service, her husband said.
“Whether cheering at our daughter’s basketball and volleyball games, supporting our son at his running races, managing the demands of a busy household, or excelling in her legal career, she brings the same determination and care to everything she does,” he said. “It’s this rare combination of strength, professionalism and heart that makes her the leader Geauga County needs.”
Multifaceted Roles
In addition to parenting her twins, Brakey loves cooking homemade meals and making most things from scratch.
She has developed routines keeping her disciplined and grounded, she said.
“On weekdays, I wake up before 5 a.m. and head to the gym for a workout or yoga class,” she said. “After that, it’s home to make breakfast, pack lunches, check homework and get the kids to school. By the time I’m out of the drop-off line, I’m often already making work calls and diving into the day. I joke that I live a lot of life before commissioners’ meetings start at 9:30 a.m. (Tuesdays).”
The family heads to Middlefield weekly to buy local meat, dairy, eggs and produce. “You can often find me walking out of Old Country Creamery with four gallons of milk under my arms,” she said, adding she recently started making homemade yogurt, which has become a family favorite.
Last summer, Brakey added a smoker to her kitchen arsenal and eagerly awaits warmer weather so she can start smoking meat again.
“What makes Geauga County so special is it has access to great amenities while remaining a high trust society,” she said. “I love being able to drop $4 in a cash box for eggs or produce and know my neighbors will do the same. It’s the best of America—the America I remember from my childhood — and it is a rarity worth preserving.”
As inauguration day approached for President Donald Trump and Vice President JD Vance’s, Brakey recalled past occasions she met and spoke at length with Vance.
The first time was when he was still in a crowded primary race for the U.S. Senate, she said, adding they were at an event seated next to each other and she asked Vance about his strategy for addressing his past criticism of Trump.
“I shared with him that, while President Trump has his faults — as all of us do — I frequently tell people that he is ‘the greatest president of my lifetime,’” she said. “Not long after, I noticed Mr. Vance adopting that very sentiment as one of his talking points, which I got a big kick out of.”
Christian Faith an Anchor
“Positivity is not my natural tendency as a person,” she said. “I wish it was. Politics can be deeply negative and it can be difficult not to absorb and redirect that. My faith in Christ helps me stay centered. I want to serve Geauga County to the best of my ability and bring glory to God.”
The kindness Brakey has received from the community means more to her than words can express, she said.
“From heartfelt notes of encouragement and lemonade brought to me at the
GOP tent at the Great Geauga County Fair, to emails filled with scripture and worship songs — every gesture has deeply touched me,” she said. “Please know how much I appreciate each-and-every one. Without these moments, the negativity would at times feel overwhelming.”
Collaboration to address challenges is key to serving the community, Brakey said.
“Unfortunately, I’ve learned that in politics, simply showing kindness to someone viewed as an ‘enemy’ can be one of the biggest political transgressions — and some of my relationships have suffered because of it,” she said. “But that won’t deter me. I’m committed to bringing a new level of professionalism and collaboration to county government, one that prioritizes problem-solving over conflict. My hope is to make those divisive, unproductive behaviors the exception, not the norm. It’s already happening and it’s incredibly rewarding to see these changes beginning to take root.”
While Brakey feels the weight of her commissioner’s role, she embraces it, working toward goals of increasing transparency in county government, which has already begun with the live-streaming for commissioners meetings.
She is also focusing on fostering stronger relationships between commissioners and other elected officials, departments, organizations and residents.
“I’m not aligned with any faction in Geauga politics. My only allegiance is to doing what’s best for our residents,” she said.
As she settles into her new position, Brakey extends a message of encouragement to other individuals, especially youth wanting to pursue a dream.
“First, root yourself in faith and family,” she said. “They’ll give you the strength and clarity to pursue your goals. Then, hone and trust your own reason and judgment. If you outsource these faculties, you’ll never stand a chance.”
When she decided to run for commissioner, most people outside her family didn’t take her seriously, Brakey recalled.
“Like crabs in a bucket, they tried to pull me down,” she said. “But, through hard work and relentless execution, what others dismissed as impossible became inevitable. The critics who say you’re not capable are proven right the moment you believe them.” Brakey from page 10
S P O R T S
Lion Claws Sharper Where It Counts Most
By rich kelly sports@kArlovecmediA com
In any sport, a battle between the Notre Dame-Cathedral Latin Lions and Lake Catho lic Cougars is a cat fight of huge proportions.
Jan. 17 in McGarry Gymnasium, before a large and vocal crowd, the teams battled on even terms until the end. Then the host Li ons got more assertive as they broke a 44-44 tie with 6:08 to play and expanded it to a solid 63-53 victory over their super rivals.
That final push was fueled defensively by Angelo Tamburrino's defense and take-over offense from Conner Hernan.
"Our team is founded on defensive prin ciples first, " said NDCL Head Coach Steve Steinmetz. "That's always been our calling card, and tonight the boys really got after it well when we had to have it. Lake is always a solid team that wins a lot, but our effort tonight was just fantastic."
Tamburrino said it extremely well, amidst a jubilant crowd after the game: "My job it to basically guard the other team's best scorer. I just have to do the very best I can on their top scorer. Tonight he (Ace Peterlin) showed why he's one of the best players in the area, but I had to do my job for the team when it mattered most."
but another key was the defensive efforts of the Hernan brothers, Connor and Brendan, in keeping 6-7 post Cross Nimmo in a quiet night on the floor.
Peterlin was the biggest offensive problem for the Lions all night, scoring 24 points,
Connor scored 17 of his 23 points on the night in the second half, and his 12 rebounds
also made Nimmo a non-factor most of the night. The Peterlin passes intended for Nimmo at close range did not find their marks, and that kept the Lions (10-3) in control until they finally broke away in the fourth period.
"We want to stress team values all the
time," Connor said. "If we hit the boards like we've been taught, we should come out in good spots all the time. Then, if we're playing good defense, too, like we did tonight, we think we should win those games."
The NDCL defense was stellar, led by Tamburrino's mad dashes all over the floor all night. His efforts would wear down the Energizer bunny a great deal of the time, and he scored six of his nine points in the fourth period, all on driving layups. With Conner scoring12 of his points in the fourth quarter as well, including a pair of back-breaking 3-pointers, one from each corner, in the last two minutes, a nine-of-11 shooting effort for the Lions was going to seal the deal in this bitter rivalry game.
Dominating the boards was key to NDCL winning the battle, 34-12. The Lions hit on more than half of their 51 shots, as well; finishing plays was superb for Coach Steinmetz's team.
Seven of NDCL's eight players recorded assists, with Mason Pesho dishing for five helpers and Tamburrino and Ryan Lipowski each adding three. Two of his three passes that ended in buckets were more pinpointed than anything he threw in the football season from his quarterback position, and against big-time rivals like Lake Catholic, that's what it took to win, along with usual defense and rebounding efforts.
Cougars Get Last Scratch on Lions
By rich kelly sports@kArlovecmediA com
With warmer temperatures covering Northeast Ohio, something had to be cooler somewhere, and as the Notre Dame-Cathedral Latin Lions hosted their rivals, the Lake Catholic Cougars, that something getting cooler proved to be the areas over the baskets.
After a long battle Jan. 17, the Cougars got a put-back from Ava Budrys Rini with three seconds to play to claim a hard-earned 35-34 victory over the host Lions.
Featuring seven tie scores and six lead changes, with the Lions having the upper hand most of the night despite being limited by early foul issues from post player Emma Slayton, the guard play led the Lions most of the way, especially on defense.
Despite Slayton being limited in floor time, the Lions pressure defense denied inside ball movement by the Cougars to their pair of twin towers in the middle, Carmella Sowers and Budrys Rini.
The trio of Lion guards, Mia Trusso, Brynn Munn, and Lexie Simon, denying passes to the paint held the Cougar duo to a single basket in the first half, and NDCL (6-7) took a tenuous 19-15 halftime lead.
MICHAEL KELLY/KMG
NDCL’s Brendan Hernan during his team’s 63-53 win over rival Lake Catholic.
MICHAEL KELLY/KMG NDCL Coach Pete DeMichele talks with his Lions during
loss to Lake Catholic.
Tigers Swimmers Win CVC Conference Championships
By AlAn kornspAn sports@kArlovecmediA com
The Chagrin Valley Conference held its swimming and diving championships Jan. 17 and 18 at Hawken High School.
For the fourth year in a row, the Chagrin Falls Tigers boys won the conference championship, Chagrin Division, with a team total of 534 points. The Tigers finished with 108 points over Orange, who finished second with 426 points.
Also, for the first time in school history, the Tigers girls swim team won the conference championship, Chagrin Division. The Tigers girls won the championship with 407 points, edging out Orange by 29 points.
Afterwards,Tigers senior swimmer Gracie Ryan talked about the girls' momentous school accomplishment.
“It's definitely very special because for the first time ever, the girls are CVC Champs and everybody contributed a lot,” Ryan said. “I think we had a lot of great swims today and everybody put in their all and did a really good job at competing.”
Seniors Cam Mateyo and Nicholas Tropf also talked about their four-peat at the CVC championships.
“It feels incredible. It's really a full team effort,” Mateyo said. “I feel so proud of everyone. I know that every boy that swam today gave their best effort.
“It wasn't easy, we knew it wasn't going to be easy. We needed to swim well and we did. I'm just really proud of our guys for doing what they needed to do, and being able to do it for four years is incredible.
“I'm just so happy to share this moment with my teammates.”
Added Tropf, “I’m so proud of our team and everyone who put forth the effort. Starting freshman year, winning it, and carrying it through all four years is huge for the team, huge for the school. Everyone should be celebrating right now.”
Tigers Head Coach John Reagan said that freshman swimmers played a big role in helping the girls team win the championship. In fact, freshman Claire Simon (1:15.35) took first place in the 100 Yard Breaststroke to earn First-Team CVC All- Conference honors.
“Our freshmen played a big part,” Reagan said. “Claire Simon is a freshman. Paige Morrison also took third and fourth for her events. That's 31 massive points that we needed to win. We had 10 girls this year and five of them were new.
“They stepped up in pressure moments in an admirable way.”
In contrast to the girls team, the Tigers boys were led by five upperclassmen who earned First Team CVC All-Conference honors: Will Asplin, Wade Daugherty, Noah Publicover, Mateyo and Tropf.
The boys team won five individual events.
Honors for the West Geauga Wolverines girls swim team was freshman Vera Caudill. In addition, the Wolverines’ MacKenzie Hensel earned Second Team All-Conference.
Caudill won the 500 Yard Freestyle with a time of 6:06.48, while Hensel finished second with a time of 6:21.65.
Caudill said she was happy with how she performed in the 500 Yard Freestyle. In particular, she has been consistent in achieving
“I'm really happy with the swim,” Caudill said. “I was pretty consistent with all of my 50s and all my times.
“My time was pretty quick. I was really happy with it. My brother carded for me, and I think he did a good job, too. Overall, I am really happy with it.”
To achieve excellence in the race and obtain her goal times, Caudill said she focused on being fast and aggressive at the start.
“I was really focused today on just going out fast and being aggressive with it, and just really keeping my kick up and going,” Caudill said. “I've swam it a lot over a lot of years, so I am pretty used to it by now. I just got to really focus and make sure that I am doing it right and being consistent.”
Only a freshman, Caudill has a goal of making it to districts this year and placing high in the 500 yard freestyle. She is also hoping to help her relay teams reach districts.
With Excellent Puck Control, Tigers Shut Out Lions
By AlAn kornspAn sports@kArlovecmediA com
The last time the Chagrin Falls Tigers hockey team faced the Orange Lions on the ice, Dec. 7, the Tigers were without a few of their top players, and the Lions won 5-2 How ever, six weeks later on Jan. 17 at the Pond, the Tigers were at full force in their rematch with the Lions.
The 14-and-4 Tigers took an early 1-0 lead with 7:12 left to go in the first period.
In the second period, the Tigers found the back of the net twice to take a 3-0 lead heading into the final period.
The Tigers then added two additional third-period goals to claim a 5-0 shut out vic tory over the Lions.
Afterwards, Tigers Head Coach Craig Hoberman said his players were motivated to obtain the victory.
“Last time we saw Orange in the last league game against them in the beginning of the season, we were down a couple players and they came out on top with a win,” Coach Hoberman said. “So for this tonight, this was really a payback game. We wanted to make sure as it was a league game, that we took it away from them. And we came out really, from the start of the game, buzzing.”
The Tigers were also stout in the defensive zone.
Dominant in the crease was senior goalie Nathaniel Newton, who recorded his third shut-out of the season.
In addition to being highly motivated for this league contest, Coach Hoberman said a contributing factor in the Tigers success was excellent puck control in their offensive zone.
“We work on that (puck control) all the time, especially in our offensive zone,” Coach Hoberman said. “(We focus on) just maintaining control, don't just shoot and have to turn it over and come back again. So that was a big highlight for us. The whole game, we maintained control in the offensive zone.”
In fact, Coach Hoberman said he thought the Tigers’ control of the puck in the first period was the best he has seen all year.
“Only one goal,” he added, “but as far as maintaining possession and control, that was hands-down the best period this year.”
Lions from page 12
The Lions also dominated the back boards in the first half, by a 12-3 margin. Lila Baeslach was a force inside, while the trio of guards did the dirty work out front.
Finally, midway through the third period, Emma Surbey broke a 21-21 tie with her only basket of the night, a long 3-pointer from above the top of the key on the right side, for a 24-21 NDCL lead.
While not dropping often for either team, the Lions did take the largest lead of the game, at 33-27, with 3:47 left, on a sweet give-and-go bucket from Baeslach to Coco Cochran. From that point on, Sowers estab lished herself in desperate fashion, and the only answer the Lions had was a free throw from Clayton with 40.9 seconds left in the game.
Meanwhile, behind the nine second-half points of Sowers, the Cougars stayed close enough to get to the final seconds of the con test.
Down by three after Clayton's free throw, Avery Budrys Rini put in her own miss with 22.3 ticks left to cut the gap to 34-33.
Newton said his team's effort to control the puck and maintain possession helped limit the Lions chances for shots on net.
Still, Newton showed his dominance by saving all 28 shots the Lions took on goal.
In shutting out the Lions, Newton described his main focus throughout the contest.
“The game plan was just mainly watch in front of the net, and also ... pretty much just watch for people just trying to skate up behind you (from behind the net),” Newton said.
In the defensive zone, Newton was assisted by defenders Anton Flach and Josh Baraona.
“Our defense is typically Josh Baraona and Anton Flach,” Coach Hoberman said. “They do a great job. They're great from a
shutdown (perspective) defensively, but they're also an offensive threat for us.”
Not only do Baraona and Flach lead the defense, they are also scorers.
In fact, Baraona got the first goal of the night halfway through the first period to give the Tigers a 1-0 lead. She was assisted on the goal by junior Henry Cimperman, who then gave the Tigers a 2-0 lead when he scored an unassisted goal with 5:07 left in the second period.
The Tigers' next two goals of the game were scored by freshman Ace Rossi.
Rossi's first goal of the game with 1:37 left in the second period was unassisted. Rossi then scored with 9:07 left in the third period, assisted on the goal by Cimperman. Flach scored the Tigers' last goal of the game in the final minute of the third period, assisted on the goal by Matthew King. With the victory, the Tigers moved to 15-4 on the season.
They will next face the Kent Roosevelt Rough Riders on Jan. 27 at the Kent State Ice Arena.
After an exchange of turnovers in the final seconds, the Cougars missed a shot, but Ava Budrys Rini was on the spot with three sec-
on the right side for
"We're developing daily as a team," Coach DeMichele said. "We basically are in the second year of a two-year plan to build our team around solid rebounding and defense, and although it's going well, we still have some down moments. It's tough to lose to your biggest rival like we did tonight. I thought we played some really good basketball, but our free throw shooting was terrible and we're much better from the floor. We struggle when we are not shooting well, and tonight was one
Avery Budrys Rini kept the Cougars in the game in the first half with nine of her game-high 15 points as the Lions defense made Sowers and Ava Budrys Rini non-factors. That changed in the second half to the
Eight of the nine NDCL players scored, but with only 27.2 percent going in from the floor and an eight-of-22 performance from the foul line, the best NDCL could offer in points was Coco Cochran, a freshman with superb court awareness on full display, and senior forward Baeslach, each putting home nine
The rebounding dominance was led by Baeslach, who snared nine of her 15 rebounds in the first half, but in those last few seconds of the game, it all slipped away for NDCL.
onds left for the put-back that won the game. After a timeout from NDCL Head Coach Pete DeMichele, a long inbounds pass from
the Lions went too far downcourt, the Cougars snared control, and what looked like a sure loss earlier ended
MICHAEL KELLY/KMG
NDCL’s Lila Baeslach leads the fastbreak for the Lions with this pass.
Dog License Tag Deadline is Jan. 31
Dog owners are reminded the deadline for 2025 dog license tags is Jan. 31.
Licenses purchased on or before Jan. 31 are $15. A $15 penalty is added to all licenses purchased after the deadline. Checks should be made payable to Geauga County Auditor.
Owners of new dogs can purchase their tags any time during the year at the auditor’s office, at any of its outlying agents, or by mail. Applications and licenses are also available
SUBMITTED
Chardon Schools
District Hosts Two Presentations
The Chardon Local School District is hosting two critical events on the importance of balancing technology with student success and wellness.
The district will host the Do It For James Foundation, a nonprofit organization that seeks to educate the public about the dangers of cyberbullying and online sextortion, at 7 p.m. Jan. 28 in the Chardon Middle School LGIR. Do It For James was founded by Tim and Tamia Woods in honor of their son, James Timothy Woods, who took his own life in November of 2022 at the age of 17 after falling victim to an online sextortion scheme.
Determined to prevent other families from experiencing their loss, Tim and Tamia Woods founded the foundation, which seeks to: raise awareness by educating the public about the dangers of cyberbullying and sextortion; support mental health by providing resources and assistance for those struggling with mental health issues; and empower youth by encouraging and sup-
porting young people through scholarships and programs.
The foundation continues to honor James' memory by promoting kindness, supporting youth and fighting against the forces that took his life.
Then, on Feb. 10 at 6 p.m., the district will host a presentation to kick off a study of Jonathan Haidt’s book “The Anxious Generation” in the middle school LGIR
Those who attend will get to hear from experts from the Geauga County Sheriff’s Department and the Educational Service Center of Northeast Ohio regarding the benefits and impact of technology on students. The presentation will focus on brain development and behaviors as well as how to support learners as they grow.
There will also be a raffle and 10 participants will win a copy of “The Anxious Generation.”
For more information on the presentations, visit Chardon Schools social media pages or the event registration page at bit.ly/3Pwsqkr.
at www.auditor.geauga.oh.gov. A transaction fee will be assessed.
Send application and $15 fee to Geauga County Auditor, Courthouse Annex, 231 Main St., Suite 1A, Chardon, OH 44024. The Geauga County Auditor’s Office is open Monday through Friday, from 8 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. For more information, call the auditor’s office at 440-279-1600 ext. 1614 or direct line 440-279-1614.
Geauga Public Library
Programs require registration unless otherwise noted. Include an email and phone number when registering for programs to receive updates about all programs. Visit www.geaugalibrary.net.
Valentines for Seniors
Geauga County Public Library’s (GCPL) Valentines for Seniors is a program that encourages library patrons of all ages to come to their local branch and make handmade valentine cards for homebound and facility-bound seniors who may need extra cheer this Valentine’s Day. Card-making materials are available for free at each library branch through Feb. 5.
Completed cards should not be placed in an envelope or addressed to a specific person and must be returned on or before Feb. 5 to be included in the program. All completed and returned cards will be delivered to local Geauga seniors by the library’s mobile services department.
Groups or organizations such as Scouts, 4-H or church groups wanting to participate can request group kits at their local branch. Please contact a local branch and ask for the Reference Desk for more information.
Kooky Kaleidoscopes
Jan. 23, 4-5 p.m. • Chardon
Youth in grades K-2 will use crafting skills to make cool designs in their kaleidoscopes.
Sprouting Young Scientists
Jan. 24, 10:30-11:30 a.m. • Geauga West
Kids in grades preK-2 will join staff from Holden Forest & Gardens for a fun, hands-on program all about the science of plants.
Winter Reading Program
Jan. 1 – Feb. 28
Geauga County Public Library’s annual Winter Reading Program is back. Sign up and track one’s reading all winter for a chance to win a great prize.
Stitching Circle
Jan. 27, 6:30-8 p.m. • Bainbridge
Textile crafters can work in the company of friends at the close-knit program full of cross-stitchers, crocheters, weavers and more.
Beginning Beekeeping Series
Jan. 28, 6:30-8:15 p.m. • Middlefield
Trish the Beekeeper will discuss how to care for a bee colony through the summer and how to prepare it for the cold winter months.
Knights of the Round Table
Jan. 30, 4-5 p.m. • Chardon
Youth in grades 3-5 may come in costume and engage in live action role-play to help save the library from trouble.
Library Led Discussions
No registration is required.
• Chardon, Jan. 30, 7-8 p.m., “Trouble Island” by Sharon Short
• Chardon, Feb. 4, 2-3 p.m., “Horse” by Geraldine Brooks
• Geauga West, Feb. 5, 7-8 p.m., “Call Your Daughter Home” by Deb Spera
Puzzle Exchange
Jan. 31, 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. • Bainbridge Exchange gently used puzzles (with no missing pieces) for new-to-you-used puzzles. Registration is not required.
DIY Paint by Number
Feb. 1, 10–11 a.m. • Bainbridge
Learn how to use a free paint-by-numbers generator to create unique canvases while painting a sample craft.
Seed Swap
Feb. 1, 10 a.m. to noon • Middlefield
Bring extra seeds in tow and trade them with others to spice up one’s lawn or garden in 2025.
Felt Fox Cup Cozy
Feb. 3, 4-4:45 p.m. • Middlefield Teens in grades 6-12 will use their crafting skills to make a no-sew felt fox cup cozy, perfect for keeping coffee toasty.
I Love Mo
Feb. 4, 4-5 p.m. • Bainbridge
Kids in grades preK-2 will celebrate Mo Willems’ birthday with their favorite librarians while reading a few Mo Willems’ stories, completing crafts and snacking on tasty birthday treats.
The seventh- and eighth-grade boys basketball team recently attended the Youngstown State basketball team against Cleveland State. They had fun taking on the mascots during a halftime pickup game.
Geauga Park District
For more information and registration, contact the park district at 440-286-9516 or visit www.geaugaparkdistrict.org.
Otter Man
Returns
Jan. 25, 2-3:30 p.m.
West Woods, Nature Center
Learn about the amazing river otter and other weasels through illustrations, videos, pelts, games and other hands-on activities, and then watch the infamous "Otter Man" come to life and return to the wild.
Native Plants, Animals & Adven-
tures
Jan. 26 • West Woods, Nature Center
From 1-2 p.m., join Eddie Lagucki, lead horticulturalist at Lantern Court Estate at Red Oak Camp, for “Landscaping with Resilient Native Plants in a Changing Ecosystem and Climate,” presented in collaboration with The Native Plant Society of Northeastern Ohio. Learn how local ecosystems have changed over time due to climate change and the cultivation of invasive plant species as well as which tough native plant species can improve ecosystem health and withstand a continually warmer, less predicable Northeast Ohio climate.
Then, from 3-4 p.m., bring the whole family out to the park district’s first-ever “Animal Ambassador Meet & Greet.” During the live animal program, learn about and meet upclose the nature center’s complete animal ambassador team.
Geauga Walkers
No registration is required to join fellow Geauga Walkers and explore parks by foot Tuesdays from 1-2:30 p.m.: Jan. 28 at Bessie Benner Betzenbaum Park, Feb. 11 at Big Creek Park, Feb. 25 at Swine Creek Reservation, March 11 at The West Woods and March 25 at Walter C. Best Wildlife Preserve. For a complete schedule, including walks outside of the parks, call the Geauga Senior Center at 440-279-2167.
Winter At Observatory Park
Observatory Park in Montville Township is open daily from 6 a.m. to 11 p.m. now through Memorial Day, and then 6 a.m. to 1 a.m. through Labor Day, and naturalists including “Astro-Nat” Chris Mentrek are eager to lead the way around the International Dark Sky Park.
Experience a total eclipse of the moon on March 13, from 11:30 p.m. to 4:30 a.m. and watch as Earth’s shadow creeps in to cover the moon during the rare event beginning just before midnight, with the maximum eclipse early Friday morning around 2:25 a.m.
Drop-in programs this season include: bring in your telescope to learn the basics of setting it up and using it on Jan. 26 from 4-5 p.m. and enjoy a history-centric tour of the Nassau Astronomical Station on March 30 from 4-6 p.m.
Walk-up guided night sky viewing is scheduled Fridays and Saturdays.: Jan. 24 and 25, Feb. 7, 8, 21 and 22, and March 28 and 29. Friday viewings are from 8-11 p.m. with Saturday viewings from 7-11 p.m. If cloudy, enjoy a planetarium show instead.
Members of the Chagrin Valley Astronomical Society will also host their quarterly walkup night sky viewing at Nassau Astronomical Station on Feb. 15 from 7-11 p.m. at 10350 Clay St. Nassau nights are canceled by clouds.
A naturalist-led hike during the full Crow Moon is scheduled for Feb. 12 from 6:30-7:30 p.m., and Friday evening astronomy programs are Jan. 24 (Radio Astronomy held virtually, so register to receive the link), Feb. 7 (How to Spot a Meteorite held in person, followed by weather-dependent night sky viewing) and March 28 (Ice Moons held virtually, so register to receive the link).
To explore constellations, young people ages 3 to 5 with an adult can sign up for Astrotots on March 21 and 22. Scout Days will also be held in the park for Tiger Cub Scouts on Feb. 4 (Sky is the Limit Adventure), and Cadette Girl Scouts on Feb. 6 (Night Owl Badge).
“Astro-Nat” Chris presents his famous Sky Tonight Planetarium Shows inside the Robert McCullough Science Center on Jan. 26 and March 30 at 2 p.m., as well as March 25 at 11 a.m. and 1 p.m.
Snowshoe Call Lists
Sign up on the park district website to receive alerts for naturalist-led Learn to Snowshoe or snowshoe outings. Programs may be any time day or evening at any park depending on weather conditions. Borrow the park district’s snowshoes or bring your own.
For those not interested in attending a scheduled program, the park district offers a free snowshoe borrowing program at The West Woods for up to two hours whenever there are at least four inches of snow on the ground. Come to the lobby of the nature center between 10 a.m. and 3 p.m. Snowshoes are available on a first-come, first-served basis.
Borrowing can take place any time from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. and last up to two hours, with all snowshoes returned by 4 p.m. One must be at least 18 years old to check out a pair; anyone younger must be accompanied by an adult.
Spring Turkey Hunt
Geauga Park District is offering a turkey hunting opportunity again this spring within its Longo and Farley properties.
For the option to participate, applicants must complete the form located on the park district’s website and email it to permits@ geaugaparkdistrict.org or drop it in the mail.
Applications are due March 10 for the youth hunt taking place April 12 and 13, and are due April 1 for the regular hunt taking place May 3 through June 1.
Hunters will be selected by random drawing and notified via email of their acceptance and hunt location. Permits will be sent electronically and include hunt and location information. Details about submitting an application can be found on the form. ODNR rules and regulations apply to all hunting conducted on park property.
Try Archery Or Hone Skills
Rookery’s indoor archery range is offering sessions for adults, families, kids 9 and older and homeschoolers to learn and practice target archery at The Rookery’s Great Blue Heron Lodge located at 10110 Cedar Road in Munson Township.
Registration is required for Introduction to Archery, Archery Games and Archery Practices. Space is limited.
Please note that all participants must be 50 inches or taller and wear closed-toed shoes, and no children younger than 9 may attend. Completion of a waiver may also be required onsite.
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
Talk to a Master Gardener Thursdays, 11 a.m. to 2 p.m.
Come to Burton Public Library for free gardening advice from Master Gardener Volunteers of Geauga every Thursday through April. Get answers to any gardening issue.
For information on how to become a Master Gardener through the Ohio State University Extension, call 440-834-4656. The next class is in February.
LCGS Meeting
Jan. 30, 10 a.m.
Amber Oldenburg, a genealogist, lecturer and social media manager at Your DNA Guide, will be the guest speaker through Zoom for the Lake County Genealogical Society's meeting at Morley Public Library, Painesville.
The society will be holding a potluck luncheon at Morley Public Library following the business meeting and program through Zoom with Oldenburg. Attendees are asked to bring a place setting and a dish to share. A Chinese auction will be conducted at the library for some genealogy books and research aids.
Visit www.lcgsohio.org for more information and an invitation to the Zoom meeting.
LCRTA
Lunch Meeting
Feb. 11, 11:30 a.m.
The Lake County Retired Teachers Association will meet at its new location at Mama Roberto’s, 8658 Mentor Ave, Mentor. Social time will be followed by the program at 11:30 a.m. and buffet style lunch. Robin Echols Cooper will perform a live dramatic performance of Stagecoach Mary. LCRTA will collect items for End 68 Hours of Hunger.
Contact Karen Sawitke, 9399 Ridgeside Drive, Mentor, OH 44060 for reservations by Jan. 31. For more information, visit lakecountyrta.weebly.com.
Spring Tree Sale
April 25 and 26
Geauga Soil and Water Conservation District (SWCD) is holding its spring tree sale. The sale offers a streamlined selection of both bareroot seedlings and 1-3 gallon container trees and shrubs. Rain barrels are also available.
For more information, tree descriptions and to place orders, visit geaugaswcd.com. Order deadline is April 7. Orders are filled on a first-come, first-served basis. The pickup dates are April 25, from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m., and April 26, from 9 a.m. to noon, at the Geauga County Fairgrounds in Burton. Questions? Call 440-834-1122.
Health & Wellness
Family First Council Jan. 27, 1:30 p.m.
Geauga Family First Council will meet at the Geauga County Office Building, Suite B168/Carlton Room, 12611 Ravenwood Drive in Chardon. Meetings are open to the public.
For more information, contact Tim Kehres, Geauga Family First Council coordinator, at 440-285-1201.
Bloodmobile
American Red Cross blood supply has fallen to critically low levels and now faces an emergency blood shortage.
Donation appointments may be made by downloading the free Blood Donor app, visiting RedCrossBlood.org or calling 1-800733-2767.
Jan. 27, University Hospitals Geauga Medical Center, 13207 Ravenna Road, Claridon Township, 11 a.m. to 4 p.m.
Jan. 30, Geauga YMCA, 12460 Bass Lake Road, Munson Township, 9 a.m. to 2 p.m.
Help for Mental Illness
NAMI Geauga offers mental health support groups and classes for families and persons affected by mental illness. There
is no charge to participants. All offerings are 100% peer led and meet in person or on Zoom.
Check out NAMI’s calendar online for the latest listings: www.namigeauga.org.
Life Recovery 12 Step Meeting
Thursdays, 6:30-8 p.m.
The open group for men and women meets weekly at Horizons Christian Assembly, 14920 White Road in Middlefield and welcomes anyone struggling with grief, alcoholism, addiction, depression, co-dependency or any other habit that lessens the quality of life. The group offers support, encouragement, fellowship and discipleship. Learn more at www.Horizons4you.com/ LifeRecovery.
Food Addicts in Recovery
Wednesdays, 6:45-8:15 p.m.
Obsessed with food, weight or dieting? Join every Wednesday for a Food Addicts in Recovery Anonymous meeting at St. Luke’s Episcopal Church, 11519 Wilson Mills Road, Chardon. The free 12-step program is for those suffering from overeating, under-eating or bulimia.
For more information, call 440-2953353 or visit www.foodaddicts.org.
Legal Notices
LEGAL NOTICE IN THE COURT OF COMMON PLEAS GEAUGA COUNTY, OHIO
24-F-000803 – CARRINGTON MORTGAGE SERVICES LLC, Plaintiff v. UNKNOWN ADMINISTRATOR, EXECUTOR OR FIDUCIARY, UNKNOWN HEIRS, NEXT OF KIN, UNKNOWN SPOUSES, DEVISEES, LEGATEES, CREDITORS AND BENEFICIARIES OF THE ESTATE OF ROGER L. BURKE, et al., Defendants
To: Unknown Administrator, Executor or Fiduciary, Unknown Heirs, Next of Kin, Unknown Spouses, Devisees, Legatees, Creditors and Beneficiaries of the Estate of Roger L. Burke and Unknown Spouse of Roger L. Burke, if any, Name Unknown, you will take notice that on December 3, 2024, Plaintiff, filed a Complaint for foreclosure in the Geauga County Court of Common Pleas, 100 Short Court, Suite 300, Chardon, Ohio 44024, being Case No. 24-F-000803, alleging that there is due to the Plaintiff the sum of $254,282.40 as of November 30, 2024. In a reverse mortgage, all advances are added to the loan balance, per the terms of the Note. As such, the principal balance continues to grow due to monthly servicing fees, mortgage insurance premium, and other costs set forth under the terms of the Note and Mortgage. The Property address of 11897 Pekin Road, Newbury, OH 44065, being permanent parcel number Parcel Number: 23042630.
Plaintiff further alleges that by reason of a default of said Promissory Note, the conditions of said Mortgage have been broken and the same has become absolute.
Plaintiff prays that the Defendant named above be required to answer and assert any interest in said real property or be forever barred from asserting any interest therein, for foreclosure of said mortgage, marshalling of liens, and the sale of said real property, and that the proceeds of said sale be applied according to law.
Said Defendant is required to file an Answer on or before the twenty-eighth day following the last date of Publication.
CARRINGTON MORTGAGE SERVICES LLC
By Brian S. Jackson, 0068516; Patricia L. Johnson, 0076669; Crystal L. Saresky, 0091328; Brandon W. Ellis, 0099077; Austin R. Decker, 0100918; Robertson, Anschutz, Schneid, Crane & Partners, PLLC, Attorneys for Plaintiff, 2400 Chamber Center Dr., Suite 220, Ft. Mitchell, KY 41017, Tel-ephone: 470-321-7112, Facsimile: 833310-1332, Email: kyohfil-ings@raslg.com.
Jan16-23-30 Feb6-13-20 , 2025
LEGAL NOTICE
Geauga County Sheriff’s Office Forfeiture Notice
Pursuant to O.R.C. 2981, the Geauga County Sheriff’s Office is seeking forfeiture of unclaimed property that was found or seized by the Geauga County Sheriff’s Office between 1/1/24 and 12/31/24.
The following are the items: Shotgun, Crossbow, and Cash & Note.
Anyone claiming ownership in this property may contact the Geauga Coun-ty Sheriff, Evidence Clerk at 440-279-2009 ext. 4313 and prove ownership. Any item not claimed will be disposed of according to the Ohio Revised Code. Jan16-23, 2025
LEGAL NOTICE IN THE COURT OF COMMON PLEAS GEAUGA COUNTY, OHIO CASE NO.: 2024-M-000624 - ROBERT V. BUNDY, et al., Plaintiff, vs. DAVID OIL COMPANY, LLC.
To: David Oil Company, LLC., whose last known address is 7001 Center Street, Mentor, OH 44060, otherwide whose address is unknown. You will take notice that on September 27, 2024, Plaintiffs filed a Complaint against you in the Geauga County Court of Common Pleas, 100 Short Court Street, Suite 300, Chardon, Ohio 44024, being Case No. 2024-M-000624. The Plaintiffs are a seeking a declaratory judgment, which would declare them to be the lawful owners of personal property located on their real property, which is a vacant piece of land located in the Township of Auburn, County of Geauga, and State of Ohio. The parcel is identified by permanent parcel number 01-105710. The personal property in question is an oil and gas well known as the Bundy Well along with the various equipment located above and below Plaintiffs’ ground.
Plaintiffs alleges that you have abandoned the aforementioned personal property and have waived all right, title and interest to the Well and the equipment that was installed below and above ground for its operation and consented by your conduct to Plaintiffs ownership of the Well and the equipment that remains on
Plaintiffs’ property.
Plaintiffs pray that the Defendant named above be required to answer and assert any interest in said personal property or be forever barred from asserting any interest therein, and that Plaintiffs be declared the rightful owner of all personal property still remaining on its realty, including but not limited to the Oil and Gas Well.
Said Defendant is required to file an Answer 28 days following the last scheduled publication date.
By Cory C. Funk, Esq., Attorney for Plaintiffs, c/o Lemire & Associates LLC., 531 E. Beech St., Jefferson, Ohio 44047. (440) 5769177. Jan16-23-30 Feb6-13-20 , 2025
LEGAL NOTICE IN THE COURT OF COMMON PLEAS GEAUGA COUNTY, OHIO
CASE NO.: 2024-M-000581 - MICHAEL GATTO, et al., Plaintiff, vs. DAVID OIL COMPANY, LLC.
To: David Oil Company, LLC., whose last known address is 7001 Center Street, Mentor, OH 44060, otherwide whose address is unknown.
You will take notice that on September 10, 2024, Plaintiffs filed a Complaint against you in the Geauga County Court of Common Pleas, 100 Short Court Street, Suite 300, Chardon, Ohio 44024, being Case No. 2024-M-000581. The Plaintiffs are a seeking a declaratory judgment, which would declare them to be the lawful owners of personal property located on their real property, which is commonly known as 9525 Mayfield Road located in the Township of Chester, County of Geauga, and State of Ohio. The parcel is identified by permanent parcel number 11097300. The personal property in question is an oil and gas well known as the Gatto Well along with the various equipment located above and below Plaintiffs’ ground.
Plaintiffs alleges that you have abandoned the aforementioned personal property and have waived all right, title and interest to the Well and the equipment that was installed below and above ground for its operation and consented by your conduct to Plaintiffs ownership of the Well and the equipment that remains on Plaintiffs’ property.
interest in said personal property or be forever barred from asserting any interest therein, and that Plaintiffs be declared the rightful owner of all personal property still remaining on its realty, including but not limited to the Oil and Gas Well.
Said Defendant is required to file an Answer 28 days following the last scheduled publication date.
By Cory C. Funk, Esq., Attorney for Plaintiffs, c/o Lemire & Associates LLC., 531 E. Beech St., Jefferson, Ohio 44047. (440) 5769177.
Jan16-23-30 Feb6-13-20, 2025
LEGAL NOTICE
Geauga County Airport Authority
The Geauga County Airport Authority will hold regular meetings the first Monday of each month, except Thursday, September 4th. Meetings are held at the airport located at 15421 Old State Road, Hangar 3 Pilot Lounge, Middlefield, Ohio, or VIA ZOOM at 6:00 P.M. For additional information visit flygeauga.com. Richard Blamer, Airport Manager Jan16, 2025
PUBLIC NOTICE
The following matters are the subject of this public notice by the Ohio Environmental Protection Agency. The complete public notice, including any additional instructions for submitting comments, requesting information, a public hearing, filing an appeal, or ADA accommodations may be obtained at: https://epa.ohio. gov/actions or Hearing Clerk, Ohio EPA, 50 W. Town St. P.O. Box 1049, Columbus, Ohio 43216. Ph: 614-644-3037 email: HClerk@epa.ohio.gov
Proposed Issuance of Permit to Install
Geauga Lake Depot 19041 Depot Road, Aurora, OH
Facility Description: Wastewater ID #: DSWPTI240518
Date of Action: 01/13/2025
Proposed Issuance of PTI, Geauga Lake Depot Jan23, 2025
PUBLIC NOTICE
ga Park District has been completed and is available for public inspection. Contact Dawn Sweeney at Geauga Park District, dsweeney@ geaugaparkdistrict.org, 440-286-9516, 9160 Robinson Road, Chardon, OH 44024. Dawn Sweeney, Fiscal Officer Jan23, 2025
LEGAL NOTICE
2024 FINANCIAL REPORT
TROY TOWNSHIP
GEAUGA COUNTY, OHIO
Notice is hereby given that the 2024 Annual Financial Report for Troy Township is completed and available for public inspection at the Troy Township Community Center, 13950 Main Market Road, Troy Township, Burton, Ohio 44021. Please call 440-834-8614 to request a copy of it. Copies will also be available at the Regular Trustee Meeting on Tuesday February 4, 2025 at 7:00 pm. Jane Grudowski, Fiscal Officer Jan23, 2025
LEGAL NOTICE IN THE COURT OF COMMON PLEAS GEAUGA COUNTY, OHIO
Case Number 24-F-000529 - KeyBank
National Association vs. STANLEY AND CHERYL FRIEDLANDER et al.
Unknown Spouse, if any, of Stanley B. Friedlander, whose present place of residence is unknown, will take notice that on August 16, 2024, KeyBank National Association filed its Complaint in Case No. 24-F-000529 in the Court of Common Pleas of Geauga County, 100 Short Court, Chardon, OH 44024, seeking foreclosure and alleging that the Defendants Unknown Spouse, if any, of Stanley B. Friedlander have or claim to have an interest in the real estate described below: Permanent Parcel #: 26-143700
Property Address: 14903 Hillbrook Circle, Novelty, OH 44072
The Defendant(s) named above are required to answer on or before the 27th day of February, 2025. KeyBank National Association BY: LOGS Legal Group LLP, Tamara Gurchik, 4805 Montgomery Road, Suite
Geauga County Maple Leaf
Real Estate Transfers
Following is a list of real estate transfers for Jan. 13-16, 2025, provided as a public service by the Geauga County Auditor’s Office. Transfers may involve the sale of land only.
AUBURN TOWNSHIP
Rodney Miller, 18812 Ravenna Road, to Snowbird Real Estate and Investments LLC, $140,000 (0.50 acres)
Patricia M. and John Phillips, 18750 Auburn Road, to Michael Lotts, $200,000. (4.60 acres)
BAINBRIDGE TOWNSHIP
Deborah Forbes Bloser (trustee), 18185 Windswept Circle, to Warren Rocco and Tamara Lynn Pistillo, $790,000. (5.29 acres)
Peter J. and Linda M. Herbst (TOD), 8897 Lake in the Woods Trail, to Robert Teriaca and Nicole Anderson, $510,000. (1.68 acres)
Frances W. Clark (trustee), 16421 Franklin St., to Joyce Building Company, $190,000. (0.23 acres)
Candace M. Smead, 8609 Tanglewood Trail, to Marko Home Solutions LLC, $181,400. (0.00 acres)
BURTON TOWNSHIP
Cristi Call, 14550 Butternut Road, to David J. and Megan M. Tucek, $290,000. (4.18 acres)
CHARDON CITY
CPP Properties LLC, 150 Court St., to GT Cad Co LLC, $221,500. (0.19 acres)
FLG Chardon LLC, 252 High Fox Drive, to NVR Inc., $90,000. (0.27 acres)
CHESTER TOWNSHIP
Pearl Property Management Group LLC, 12447 Chillicothe Road, to Ronnie Galloway and Victoria Velez, $192,000. (0.25 acres)
Allen Brescic, 12633 Ward Drive, to Richard L. Adimulapu, $425,000. (0.50 acres)
HAMBDEN TOWNSHIP
Kurt Eric Hoffacker, 13526 Woodin Road, to Tyler Vincent Rodriguez, $250,000. (3.29 acres)
HUNTSBURG TOWNSHIP
Franklin Lee Smith Jr., 12349 Clay St., to Mayfield Road Storage LLC, $162,300. (4.42 acres)
BGP LLC, 11730 Hunt Road, to Thomas E. and Gloria J. Schaeffer (co-trustees), $825,000. (62.14 acres)
MIDDLEFIELD TOWNSHIP
Jean L. Babb and Harvey Swonger III, 16236 Kinsman Road, to Thomas Allen Dudinsky, $245,000. (4.27 acres)
MIDDLEFIELD VILLAGE
Middlefield Parkway, 15404 Oak Hill Drive, to NVR Inc., $66,600. (0.21 acres)
Middlefield Parkway, 15412 Oak Hill Drive, to NVR Inc., $66,600. (0.21 acres)
Middlefield Parkway, 15268 Woodsong Drive, to NVR Inc., $66,600. (0.37 acres)
NVR Inc., 15250 Timber Ridge, to Patricia L. Kuivinen (trustee), $317,200. (0.21 acres)
Courtland J. and Elizabeth Beyer, 14787 Glen Valley Drive, to Michael Cardaman, $285,000. (0.34 acres)
PARKMAN TOWNSHIP
Dan E. and Martha B. Kuhns, Grove Road, to Dan E. and Martha B. Kuhns and Edna Marie and Robert R. Byler Jr., $72,000. (46.15 acres)
THOMPSON TOWNSHIP
Kenneth Mocella, 15276 Leroy Road, to KCMB Enterprises LLC, $215,000. (2.50 acres)
Geauga Sheriff’s Report
The following is a sampling of the calls handled by the Geauga County Sheriff’s Office Jan. 10 to Jan. 16, 2025.
ANIMAL ABUSE
Jan. 13
7:31 p.m., Nauvoo Road, Middlefield. Caller advised their is a small dog that lives outside in the dog house. Caller advised they don't see a blanket and don't know if it has food or water. Caller spoke to Rescue Village and told them yesterday and advised to call Office. Spoke with home owner who advised he would put the dog in the barn for the night.
HARASSMENT
Jan. 10
1:21 a.m., Claridon Troy Road, Hambden. Fiance's brother is harassing the family. Has been texting family members: “I will find you" and they "will be put to the wheel.” No mental health diagnosis, but has history of episodes in the past. Deputy also advised the possibility of blocking the cell phone number. Complaints did not know where the subject currently resides. Complaints advised the subject would not answer an unknown phone number and were not willing to try and call the subject.
SUSPICIOUS
Jan. 11
1:02 a.m., Elm Drive and Kinsman Road, Newbury. Male walking toward 87 from Elm yelling obscene words. Deputy located (name redacted) who was highly agitated and had been drinking while speaking, he asked the deputy for his gun to shoot himself. Was detained using handcuffs and taken from UH Geauga where an emergency evaluation was completed.
Jan. 14
12:14 p.m., Hale Road, Burton. Reported he thinks his wife is poisoning him. Reported that he was describing his
symptoms to a chiropractor over the phone and that the chiropractor stated that he was being poisoned. Got bloodwork which showed no evidence of him being poisoned. He stated he has appointments to get further testing done. Was confrontational with Deputy and did not want to provide further information that would assist in an investigation. Documentation only at this time.
Jan. 15
6:37 p.m., Auburn Road, Notre Dame-Cathedral Latin, Munson. Resident is reporting a drone in the area of Auburn Rd southbound at Notre Dame very large triangle shaped drone with bright lights hovering over the Notre Dame driveway. It was larger than a super duty pickup truck and was silent! When the caller exited the vehicle, the drone left northbound along Auburn Road. Sergeant was close at the time of the call and did not observe the drone.
THEFT AUTO
Jan. 11
8:48 a.m., Thompson Road, Thompson. Stolen snowmobile last seen yesterday at 5 p.m. has been out for sale in front of address.
THREATENING
Jan. 14
10:56 a.m., Auburn Road, Chardon. Would like to speak to a Deputy regarding threats her husband has been making. She is not at home. Call her cell. Husband wrote “Bye, bye” on a paper plate and stated it was because they were separating. Husband said: “God's truth will come out.” Husband said to the daughter: “Keep acting like this and see how you end up.” and also stated to watch out for your mother on Luther King Day. Caller wanted advise on probate. Caller was given the phone number to the probate court.
AUTOS & PARTS
2007 Ford Focus: wheels with 4 lug nuts, mounted snow tires, used only one season, $200/OBO. 440431-6944.
FOR RENT
Auburn: 1BR apartment, includes laundry room and attached garage. No pets. $975/mo. Call 440-221-0649.
FOR SALE
Two burial plots at Western Reserve Memorial Gardens with full package: 2 vaults, 2 caskets, dual memorial headstone; $7,400. 440-476-0706.
B&G Mother’s Day Plates. Electric log splitter, copper kettles, many aquariums, clocks, kerosene lamps, pottery jugs. Inquire 440-338-3563.
Ladder jacks $50. 12-foot expanding plank $100. Mantis Tiller $200. Hitch Carrier Tray $100. Hand-held electric leaf blower $50. 440-554-5731.
Lake View Cemetery, 4 burial plots total (2 double lots): Cemetery Price $10,100 per dbl. Asking $8,000 each dbl. 440-729-0070.
Firewood: mixed hardwoods, 4’x8’x16-inch pieces, $135. Delivered within 15 miles of Chardon. 440-687-5404. Benelli Super Black Eagle 12-gauge semi-automatic shotgun, 26” barrel, EC, $1,300. 440-564-1172.
Chainsaw: Stihl MS251c, like-new $200. Stihl 028AV $175. Chicago Electric 151 MIG $200. King 1200CFM dust collector $500/OBO. Electric EEI drain opener, self-feed, like-new. 440-272-5736.
New white triple track Storm Windows: perfect for home & porch enclosures (7) 30-1/4x59-1/4 $125 each. George 440-336-5044.
Total Exercise Glide Bike: 20’x46”, low impact full body, like rowing; 440-834-8416.
HELP WANTED
Driver wanted for construction crew. Must be able to pull trailer. All local work. Call David Miller 440-478-9703.
PETS & ANIMALS
Barn homes needed for a number of fixed & vaxxed semi-feral cats whose elderly caretaker was evicted. Help us help them. Rebecca 440-321-2485.
MISCELLANEOUS
FREE fact: “Dabbing” is heating high THC and inhaling fumes. Causes psychosis and nausea! Very dangerous. So WHY? REAL ESTATE
Homes & Land Wanted: any condition or situation! Fast, friendly, local. Serving Geauga and surrounding counties. Text or call Wayne at 330-269-9595.
SERVICES
Will do housework, cleaning, laundry, and elder care. Experienced 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.
Wanted: 4-ft metal lathe. Retired guy seeking new hobby. Cash paid. 440-313-1178.
Old fishing tackle wanted: fishing lures (wood or plastic), mouse to bear traps, wooden duck decoys. Call Lee 440-313-8331.
