Middlefield Post 1-12-22

POST Wednesday, January 12, 2022 • Vol. 14 No. 18 • FREE

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Community News from Middlefield, Parkman, Huntsburg and Surrounding Areas

OR CURRENT RESIDENT

Middlef ield A Beacon of Hope in the New Year Red Tulip Partners with Area Church to Offer Life Recovery Meetings

By Rose Nemunaitis editor@geaugamapleleaf.com It is by no means a news flash that life has been filled with new challenges during the past two years.

But unlike COVID-19, mental health and addiction is a sickness claiming people’s lives every day that has no vaccine.

However, just as fireworks lit up the skies while people rang in 2022, bright spots remain on the horizon for those struggling with mental health challenges.

Horizons Christian Assembly, 14920 White Road, Middlefield, is offering new opportunities, hope and a welcoming community to those in need through its Life Recovery meetings from 6:30 p.m. to 8 p.m. every Friday.

The Red Tulip Project of Geauga, a nonprofit charity, partnered with the church to form the growing outreach program that provides faith-based recovery options for those at their Red Tulip level 2 recovery home and welcomes mem-

ROSE NEMUNAITIS/KMG

Life Recovery’s team, from left, Ray Binder, Roxie Landon and Pastor Justin Boyles, believe everyone can benefit from a Life Recovery experience Friday evenings at Horizons Christian Assembly in Middlefield.

bers struggling in the community.

“We want to be a beacon of light in Geauga County to those suffering in addiction,” said co-creator and group leader Justin Boyles, a discipleship pastor. “This group is a part of a way bigger picture and plan that God has for those in addic-

Rotary Donation Makes a Splash

tion. We want to grow and partner so we can accomplish all God has for our region.”

Bright Idea Born

The partnership and idea began with a friendship between Boyles and Red Tulip’s Kelly Phillips, a

Note of Gratitude A Very Merry Middlefield Thank You

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The Burton Middlefield Rotary donated a check for $4,000 to the food pantry at the Congregational Church in Burton Village in December.

Pictured are, from left, Rotarian Larry Fox, food pantry volunteer Andy Baker and Rotarian Jim Dvorak. The donation came from ticket tales for last summer’s Maple Splash.

Dvorak said tickets are now on sale for the 2022 Maple Splash at the Log Cabin in Burton or from Rotary members.

certified peer supporter and Life Recovery coach, after participation in Boyle’s discipleship group at the church.

“We connected as friends when I saw her giftedness, passion and love See Recovery • Page 9

After a one-year absence, Middlefield Chamber of Commerce again celebrated Merry Middlefield with the assistance of members, sponsors, volunteers, families and friends on Dec. 11, 2021.

The Chamber wants to thank all the businesses and individuals who supported this event. Photos are available to download from the Middlefield Chamber of Commerce and G-TV websites.

Our morning started with our Grinch and Max stealing donated toys from collection sites. The many toys were delivered to non-profits that thanked the community for their generosity.

Grinch, Max and Cindy Lou Who

signed books at Cardinal High School during the East Geauga Kiwanis pancake breakfast and craft show, then visited the Middlefield VFW. Later that evening, Ralph Spidalieri and staff at Great Lakes Outdoor Supply hosted our Grinch’s dramatic presentation and photos with Santa. Visitors enjoyed cookies and drinks provided by Abundant Life Church while they waited. The fireworks were delayed because of windy weather, but with the help of Lt. Reed and the Middlefield Fire Department, the evening ended with a spectacular lighting display. Royal Rangers helped with the fireworks cleanup.

There are so many businesses and people to thank. We look forward to seeing everyone next year, so mark your calendar for Merry Middlefield on Dec. 10, 2022.

Colleen Lockhart Middlefield Chamber of Commerce

facebook.com/middlefieldpost

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Middlefield Post

Wednesday, January 12, 2022

Middlefield Post

Wednesday, January, 2022

A Glimpse of Yesteryear

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

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Jeffrey B. Karlovec, Publisher John D. Karlovec, Editor Pamela J. Molnar, Production Supervisor Cassandra C. Shofar, News Editor Gayle Mantush, Sales Representative Jamie A. Ward, Sports Editor Barb Fontanelle, Sales Representative Beverly Thompson, Front Desk Clinton Sestak, Sales Representative Karen S. Kaplan, Graphic Design

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length, clarity and grammar. All submissions are due by noon on the Friday prior to the Wednesday publication date for consideration for that edition.

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By Rick Seyer Above is a view of East High Street looking east from the intersection of state routes 87 and 608, taken over 100 years ago.

The first building on the left was located at the site of the downtown mural park. The next three buildings are still used today. Middlefield Tavern, the Pedego Bicycle store and Karl’s Jewelry now occupy them.

The street is still dirt, having not been paved until 1915.

Look carefully up the street to the approximate place where north and south Thompson Avenue are located. The tree that you see was actually growing in the middle of the road and cars had to drive around it.

There was quite a fuss raised by the citizens when the village cut it down in order to pave the road.

This photo to the right is of the Middlefield Tavern taken in 1892. At the time this was taken, the building was used as a pool hall and barber shop. There was an open creek running along the west side of the building that ran through the current munic-

Circulation • The Middlefield Post is distributed for free to homes and businesses in the communities of Middlefield, Park-

man, Huntsburg and surrounding communities. It is mailed through the U.S. Postal Service.

• Copies are also available at rack locations within Middlefield and surrounding communities.

• Circulation in excess of 7,000.

• Produced by the Karlovec Media Group.

• In case of error, we will re-print that portion of an advertisement that was in error. Notification of error should be made within three days of published date.

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ipal parking lot. The parking lot at that time was just a field full of trash.

The tavern later was purchased by Pete Popovic, who operated it until he sold it to a partnership of Gale Gooding, Glade Harrison and Joe Dulka. It was later purchased by Mike Dulka.

When it was owned by Pete Popovic, the tavern also sold guns and ammo. Can you imagine guns and ammo being sold in a bar today!

Community Meetings Listed are public meetings and executive sessions in Huntsburg, Middlefield and Parkman townships, the Village of Middlefield and Cardinal Schools for the coming weeks. (Please note: These meeting notices are NOT legal notices. To find out whether a government or school board meeting is in person or virtual contact the appropriate township, village or district office.

Huntsburg Township: Jan. 18, 7 p.m., Board of Trustees. All meetings held at the Town Hall, 16534 Mayfield Road.

Middlefield Village: Jan. 13, 10 a.m. – Re-

cords Commission, 5:30 p.m. – Recreation, 6 p.m. – Finance & Ordinance, 6:30 p.m. – Safety, 7 p.m. – Village Council. All meetings are at the Municipal Center, 14860 N. State Ave. Parkman Township: Jan. 18, 7 p.m., Board of Trustees. All meetings are held at the Community House, 16295 Main Market Road, unless otherwise noted.

Cardinal BOE: Jan. 12, 5:30 p.m., organizational meeting, following by budget hearing at 5:45 p.m. and regular meeting at 6 p.m. All meetings held at BOE Office, 15982 E. High St., Middlefield, unless otherwise indicated.

Letters to the Editor reflect the opinion of those signing them and not necessarily that of either the Karlovec Media Group, its affiliates or its advertisers. All letters submitted are subject to editing, and none will be returned.

• The opinions and representations contained in advertisements are those of the advertiser. They have not been verified by the Karlovec Media Group, nor should they be construed to represent the position or viewpoint of this newspaper or its publisher.

• Under no circumstances will any record filed in the county be suppressed at any time for anybody, except by order of court.

Auditor’s Office Updating Property Records Geauga County Auditor’s Office appraisers will be working throughout the county over the next several months to update property records for properties engaged in new construction or remodeling during 2021, as of Jan. 1, 2022, county Auditor Chuck Walder said.

Auditor’s appraisers will be in personal marked vehicles and will have ID badges.

Walder said residents should contact the Geauga County Sheriff’s Office or their local police department if they are concerned about whether an appraiser is from the county auditor’s office.

Residents having questions are urged to contact the Geauga County Auditor’s Appraisal Office at 440-279-1601 for information.

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Middlefield Post

Wednesday, January 12, 2022

Faith Matters Band Concert Blues

When I was in eighth grade my Dad, same time, a firestorm brought more death brother Jack and I were returning home from and destruction in another place. Finally, a a band concert one evening. I played the cor- hurricane-like wind blew in from the desert, net and Jack made music with his clarinet. destroying the house where all of Job’s chilMy parents required all five of us kids to dren had gathered for a festive celebration. learn an instrument.

All were lost in a single moment of time.

At any rate, as we approached the crossWhen Job received the calamitous news, road close to home, we slammed into a car he tore his robe and shaved his head (signs of that had failed to see the stop grief and humility), and fell to the sign. I remember the dreamlike ground in worship saying, “Naked I feeling and helplessness as we came from my mother’s womb, and made impact and inertia sent us naked I will depart. The Lord gave flying inside the car. My head and the Lord has taken away; may went into the windshield, leaving the name of the Lord be praised.” me with lacerations on the scalp What a remarkable faith-filled reand forehead. Both Dad and Jack sponse. had injuries as well. It was a calm Later on, as Job’s own health

By Roger Kruse but messy scene. was affected by painful sores from As we waited for the ambulance to come his head to his feet, he began to ask God, and transport us to the hospital, I was “Why?” shocked that such a thing had happened.

The rest of Job’s story focuses on his My bubble had been burst. Somehow, I had search to find the elusive answer to the reathought that such things could only happen son for his suffering. He debates with his to “other” people, not to me or my family. friends who try to offer him counsel. They How about you? Have you ever asked the insist that Job must have some hidden sin in question “Why me?” as you faced an accident, his life. Job denies that premise and yearns illness or difficult life circumstance? Probably for a direct audience with God. Yet, when we all have been there and done that. We God finally does reveal Himself to Job, he thought, if not expected, that we were some- acknowledges that his finite, human perspechow insulated from the bad stuff that could tive is totally inadequate to understand God’s impact our lives. sometimes mysterious ways.

By now, however, most of us have figured As you and I wrestle with pain and sufferout that “bad things” can and do happen. We ing in this life, faith must lead the way. God are left to sort out how to cope with what we can and does use hardship to teach us, shape are facing as well as how to protect ourselves us and build in us a confident trust that tranfrom unwanted happenings in the future. scends our understanding.

In the Bible, Job is the ultimate case The Lord who loves us with an everlaststudy on suffering. Job was living the good ing love has promised to work His loving life with a large, blessed family of seven sons purpose into each and every trial that comes and three daughters. In addition, he was a our way. “Even in darkness,” the Bible says, very wealthy man with an abundance of mate- “light dawns for the upright.” rial possessions and servants. His reputation Your authentic, persistent faith will make as a great man was known far and wide. More you more like Jesus, compassionate towards than that, Job was a man of integrity and a others, and ready for the glory of heaven’s person of faith. He always sought to do the perfection. right thing and wanted to please God. A stubborn pinched nerve presently has Suddenly the bottom dropped out of Job’s Roger Kruse singing the blues. However, God life. His enemies attacked on two fronts, stole is working for good … developing perseverance his livestock and killed his servants. At the and hope.

Town Crier Blackbrook Audubon

Jan. 18, 7 p.m.

Blackbrook Audubon will host “Where Did You Get That Name?” by Mary Huey, a former interpretive naturalist for Lake Metroparks with at Penitentiary Glen’s Nature Center in Kirtland. She will share how the names of native birds evolved and introduce some 19th century ornithologists. Participants can attend the program in person or register on the event page of blackbrookaudubon.org to receive a link to view the program live online.

Then, on Jan. 23, join Blackbrook at 8 a.m. for its monthly Important Bird Area walk at Mentor Marsh State Nature Preserve. Meet at the entrance gate to the utility pipeline access road by the intersection of Woodridge Lane and Forest Road in Mentor Headlands.

For more info, email blackbrookaud@aol.com.

Beneficial Insects Webinar

Feb. 2, 7-8 p.m.

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

County Master Gardener Jeanne Poremski.

Learn about all the amazing insects that visit flowers. The virtual program is sponsored jointly with the Native Plant Society. Register with Wendy by Feb. 1 at go.osu.edu/beneficialinsects to receive the Zoom link.

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

Spring Fish Sale

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

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

Pond safety kits are also available. To place an order, visit www.geaugaswcd.com.

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

Questions? Call 440-834-1122.

Middlefield Post

Wednesday, January, 2022

Sports Young Huskies Take Chardon to Overtime in Strong Showing

BILL FUGATE/KMG

Cardinal’s Troy Domen, left, and teammate Paul Gall tie up Chardon’s Nathanael Sulka during the Huskies 64-62 overtime loss to the Chardon Hilltoppers. The Huskies lost a 52-40 lead in the fourth quarter, but the effort against a larger school was a good sign for the team that started the week 5-5.

BILL FUGATE/KMG

Jake Bean scored 30 points in the loss to Chardon, including 22 points in the second half.

Bean hit a 3-pointer with 11 seconds left to put Cardinal on top before the eventual 64-62 overtime loss.

Huskies Finish 2nd at Harvey Red Raider Classic

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The Cardinal Huskies competed in the Harvey Red Raid Classic, finishing second as a team in points. Andrew Tucholski, Clayton Carmon and John Avalon were tournament champions Chase Simak and Ty Zeigler finished in 2nd place. Ben Bolton finished 4th. “It was a good day for the Huskies’ wrestling squad taking second as a team,” Head Coach Jeff Zeigler said. “The team performed well even considering missing four key wrestlers.”

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Middlefield Post

Wednesday, January 12, 2022

Feeling the Squeeze

Pet Adoption Spike a Myth, But Vets Still Overwhelmed

By Ann Wishart ann@geaugamapleleaf.com Any pet owner waiting outside the veterinarian’s office with a whimpering dog or complaining cat in the back seat is apt to blame their discomfort on the new practices instituted by vets due to COVID-19 – and they may be right.

They may also believe the myth more pets were adopted by bored, house-bound families during the pandemic, causing vet practices to be overwhelmed with new patients.

Yes, many who work in a vet’s office are overwhelmed, and, yes, the pandemic is one reason, but there is no evidence supporting the idea that many more cats and dogs were adopted in the last year and a half, according to an Aug. 13 article titled, “The COVID-19 Pet Adoption Boom: Did it Really Happen?” from the American Veterinary Medicine Association.

The main cause of office slow-downs is a shortage of support staff in Geauga County.

Dr. Shelly Jagers at Countryside Veterinary Service in Middlefield said in a phone interview the spread of COVID-19 in Geauga County has really upped the pressure on the practice.

“It’s been a crazy, crazy, crazy day here.

We are short a doctor and we’ve had quite a few emergencies,” she said Dec. 3, explaining why she didn’t have much time for an interview. “We are definitely experiencing a staff shortage on all levels. It’s made it very challenging over the last months.”

The AVMA article, by Drs. Matthew Salois and Gail Golab, dismissed the more-pets-adopted narrative, but agreed pressure on vets and their employees has ratcheted up.

The data gathered via surveys of thousands of rescue organizations and shelters shows fewer pets were adopted, but the percentage of animals finding new homes appears higher because there were fewer dogs and cats in those holding areas, the article said.

“Fewer people relinquished their pets and animal control was less active in picking up strays. At the same time, successful spay/ neuter programs helped keep populations down. Additionally, the share of shelter animals moved into foster care more than doubled —from 22% in April 2019 to more than 46% in April 2020,” Salois and Golab said.

“Nearly 450,000 fewer animals were adopted in 2020 compared with 2019. The adoption rate — or percentage of available animals adopted — was up, but the actual number was down significantly.”

Not so for vets.

From 2019 to 2020, the average number of appointments made with vets increased about 4.5% and for the first six months of 2021, they went up about 6.5% nationally, the article said.

But fewer animals were seen per hour due to restrictions many vet offices followed for COVID-19 safety reasons. The current surge in appointment requests was partly caused by a backlog. Pet owners delayed mak-

ANN WISHART/KMG

Lynn Tezak cuddles one of 14 adult cats who came from the house of a cat hoarder. Most are available for adoption. Tezak, owner of Cat’s Inn in Newbury Township, said the pandemic has affected her cat grooming and boarding business.

ing appointments for their regular checkups, minor ailments, non-life-threatening surgeries and shots during the months when they may not have felt safe in venturing out, Salois and Golab wrote.

“Many practices are still playing catch up with patients who haven’t been seen in more than a year, and our teams still aren’t working at peak productivity because of the lingering effects of COVID-19,” they said.

The stress of dealing with sick animals and frantic owners with too few staff can lead to all kinds of problems.

“The stress level is quite high in our field, nationwide,” Jagers said. “The burnout rate in veterinary medicine is very high.”

Across the country, suicide committed by veterinary staff has risen in the last 10 years, she said, adding the Countryside office has not been affected that way.

The nonprofit Not One More Vet organization has been providing emotional support for veterinary professionals since 2014, according to its website.

“It’s a real thing,” Jagers said.

Anxiety Fallout

Changes in family dynamics can affect dogs and cats in ways humans find confusing.

Carol Peter, founder of Cold Nose Companions in Chardon, specializes in helping dogs suffering from separation anxiety.

“I’ve seen it show up in a lot of ways,” she said in a recent phone interview.

When the pandemic forced students and parents to work from home in 2020, the family dog might not have had too much trouble adapting to having her whole pack around all day, every day.

See Pets • Page 7

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Middlefield Post

Wednesday, January, 2022

Pets

from page 6 However, when schools and the workplace opened up again and the pack dispersed, leaving the house empty much of the time, it was not the best situation.

“Your dog was not prepared for that,” said Peter, who moved to Colorado after selling her business to trainer Christine Good. She continues to help families overcome their pets’ new behavior issues in Colorado.

“Last summer was real busy,” Peter said.

“I did more separation anxiety work than I’ve ever done before.”

Cats are usually better able to cope with a quieter home, but if they need to be enclosed for long periods of time, Lynn Tezak knows how to keep them happy.

The owner of Cats Inn on Kinsman Road in Newbury Township remodeled the former barbershop to meet the needs of about 20 rescued cats, as well as her boarding and grooming business.

Having recently taken in 14 adult cats when an acquaintance died, Tezak has them together in one room, but provides them with structures where they can climb, perch and hide until adopted.

“They like being up high,” she said, scooping up a friendly tiger.

Her boarding cages are the same, with three levels and comfy nests where cats can wait for their humans to come back from vacation or a business trip.

“We do some disaster boarding where a family has to get their pets out of the house,” Tezak said, adding she takes on cats who need special care because of illness or who need time to heal from an operation.

COVID-19 affected that end of her operation and she is unsure how it will shake out.

“I had a big uptick in business, but I had an uptick in cancellations,” she said.

For instance, people planned to leave their pets with her while they traveled for the holidays, but decided to stay home because of the recent spike in the Omicron variant, Tezak said.

Veterinary practices and businesses deal-

Obituaries Deborah Kay Klingman

Deborah Kay Klingman, age 71, passed away Dec. 25, 2021, surrounded by her loving family.

She was born in Hartville, Ohio, on April 25, 1950, daughter of the late Donald and Helen (nee Mosley) Shatzer.

Debbie graduated from Orange High School, in 1968.

She met her husband, Dennis Klingman, on July 4, 1970, and they were married eight months later, on March 20, 1971, at Garfield Memorial Church in Pepper Pike. They lived in Bowling Green, moved to Burton Village, followed by Middlefield Village, then later moved to their home in Burton Township to accommodate their growing family of three boys.

Debbie worked at Johnson Rubber, Newbury Schools cafeteria, The Frank Agency and Settlers Farm.

Debbie loved to travel with her husband and friends. Her favorite places to visit were Pennsylvania (where Dennis and Debbie had a cabin), California, Wyoming and Montana.

She also visited Alaska, England and Amsterdam.

In her spare time from working and raising three boys, Debbie loved to knit, which calmed her when the boys were growing up.

She also loved to snowmobile, go boating,

fishing, camping and to make campfires.

She was a wonderful mother and grandmother who enjoyed school concerts, sports events and many other occasions with her family.

Debbie is survived by her loving husband of 50 years, Dennis Klingman; loving sons, Doug (Tanya), David (Sharon) and Daniel (Kristin); beloved grandchildren, Kelsey, James, Ella and Caden Klingman; siblings Tom (Alice) Shatzer, Linda Jarden, Holly (Bob) Powell and Barbara Smith; along with many nieces and nephews.

She is preceded in death by her parents, Donald and Helen Shatzer; and brother Billy Shatzer.

Memorial calling hours were held Jan. 7, 2022, at Sly Family Funeral Home, 15670 W. High St., Middlefield, followed by a celebration of her life.

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

Notices should be sent in writing by the funeral directors and memorial societies to: Geauga County Maple Leaf, P.O. Box 1166, Chardon, OH, 44024-5166, or faxed to 440-285-2015. The Maple Leaf charges a flat fee of $100 per obituary or death notice, including a photograph.

ing with pets are cautioned by Salois not to rush into decisions because the future of the industry is uncertain.

“Reports of increased pet adoption numbers, coupled with the stress we might be feeling right now, could lead us to make re-

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active business decisions that aren’t in our best interest,” he and Golab said in their article. “What we do know is that productivity has suffered during COVID-19. Let’s look for ways to enhance productivity and optimize the resources we have on hand.”

Middlefield Post

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Wednesday, January 12, 2022

Geauga Park District For more information and registration, visit www.geaugaparkdistrict.org.

Journaling The Great Outdoors

Nature lovers will learn basic journaling techniques and how to record their nature observations by attending the park district’s monthly Nature Journaling series hosted by naturalist Renell Roebuck.

The new year kicks off with journaling introduction sessions Jan. 16, from 1-3:30 p.m., and Jan. 17, from 9:30 a.m. to noon, at The West Woods Nature Center.

Registration is required by phone at 440286-9516 for the series. A one-time fee of $20 for Geauga County residents, or $24 for outof-county residents.

Big Kid Fun

On Jan. 15, Scouts in grades nine through 12 may register by phone only for High School Scout Snowshoe Day at The West Woods Nature Center. In covering the basic use of snowshoes, participants may be meeting some requirements for Girl Scouts’ Snow Adventure or Boy Scouts’ Snow Sports badges.

Then, on Jan. 17, from 1-4 p.m., youth in grades five through 10 can be dropped off at Orchard Hills Park for X-TREME Winter Fun Day. The group will try snowshoes, learn about winter wildlife and warm up by the fire with complimentary hot cocoa and s’mores.

Bring a sled for some fun downhill rides. A signed waiver will be required for each participant; registration is required.

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

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

Campers have the opportunity to learn

firsthand about Ohio’s forests and natural resources through challenging and engaging activities, woodland hikes, demonstrations and outdoor experiences taught by resource professionals.

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

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

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

East Geauga Kiwanis Club Honors Students

East Geauga Kiwanis Club recently recognized third-graders from Jordak Elementary School for their in-class performance in the second grading period. The students were presented with a certificate and four literature books. Pictured, top left to right, are Fiona F., Melissa M. and Jessman K. SUBMITTED

Middlefield Post

Wednesday, January, 2022

Recovery from page 1

for those in addiction and bondage,” Boyles said. “I knew she would do amazing things.”

Since Life Recovery’s 2021 inception, 60 people, from all walks of life, have participated and the average attendance is about a dozen, Phillips said, adding the hope is that the group will continue to grow and people will benefit from a community of like-minded people.

“That’s the nice thing about the group, whether you are a regular or just pop in and out, you can always learn something new. It’s life tools, it’s real-life conversations and practical tips to change your life,” Phillips said.

Boyles added, “It is for anyone struggling with hurts, habits, or hang-ups in life. In Life Recovery, we use the 12 steps for anyone struggling in any life controlling issues, not just alcohol or drugs. It could be addiction, divorce, loss, gambling, mental issues, etc.”

Taking the first step towards change can be a struggle within itself, he said.

“The first step to change is to have a crystallization of discontent, meaning that we have recognized shortcomings in our lives and are completely done with them to the point that we are willing and ready to make changes,” Boyles said.

Dark Shadows of Mental Health

Mental health challenges have claimed the lives of thousands and rates continue to rise, according to Kaiser Family Foundation, which added, “About four in 10 adults nationwide have reported symptoms of anxiety or depressive disorder — a four-fold increase from pre-pandemic levels.”

Young adults have been especially hard hit.

KFF reported those ages 18-24 are about twice as likely as all adults to report new or increased substance use or recent suicidal thoughts.

Each Life Recovery meeting includes readings of the 12 steps and group guidelines, then individual check-ins where participants are given an option to talk about how their week has been or what’s going on in their life and if there’s anything pressing that they want to discuss, as well as prayers and work from the workbook on the current lesson, Boyles said.

Then there is a Bible reading and group members discuss how to apply it directly to their lives. Meetings close out with members asking for prayers for any loved ones or individuals in the community, he said, adding at the end of the session, he and a few mentors and prayer partners are available if anyone needs extra support or help in finding a sponsor or churches, or searching for classes to further recovery.

Surviving the Darkness

Boyles really does understand the struggles in the hearts of those he prays to help.

He lived the pain of opioid addiction.

“It is my story and it can be the same for those struggling right now,” he said, add he used to be a heroin addict.

“I found freedom in Christ and have now been clean for almost 13 years,” Boyles said.

“As a result, I have a burning passion to help others find the same freedom that I have found through Christ.”

Phillips said since the pandemic’s start, mental health and addiction has become a huge problem in the nation.

Overdose rates are continually increasing and are higher than ever.

“We all know that being locked down and not able to connect with others can really take a toll on those who struggle with addiction and mental health issues,” she said.

Phillips said her faith has played a big part of her own recovery and is driven to share that with others.

“Everyone can benefit from a life recovery,” Phillips said. “This isn’t just limited to addiction and alcoholism. This is about a transformation — whether it’s depression, anxiety, isolation or grief you have gone through. It helps us face our bad habits, our hurts and struggles and replace them with healthier way of living and growing closer to God.” Phillips enjoys being able to toss a lifeline to others that helped rescue her.

“That’s what the program is about,” Phillips said. ”The final step is that we carry this message to others and to practice these principles in all our affairs.”

Phillips wanted to share the story of Joe, 54, who asked to only be referenced by his first name.

Joe has been a loyal program participant

from the get-go and said his battles included “addiction, selfishness, self-centeredness and ego — trying to control everybody and everything.”

Life Recovery has given him strength.

“I am able to accept life as it unfolds instead of becoming overwhelmed,” he said, adding he has never been happier and looks forward to it every week.

“No matter what your struggle, what your situation, or what you think of yourself — someone has already been there, done that.

There are no judges or juries here, just open arms and hearts. A problem shared is a problem cut in half.”

Faith in Action

Ray Binder had been in Alcoholics Anonymous recovery for three years and wanted to explore a stronger faith-based program.

He now assists in running Life Recovery meetings, making welcoming connections with new and current members.

“Our Life Recovery group emphasizes that when you are willing to start to do the work to create the best version of yourself, you’ll have a clear plan, the support of friends and the faith to get the job done,” Binder said.

He believes members genuinely care for one another’s success.

Rebecca Szilagyi agreed and began attending as a support for a family member.

“After the first meeting, I quickly realized how much I needed this in my life,” Szilagyi said. ”Being able to be part of a faith-based, 12step group that provides a supportive community has helped me not only work through some issues with grief after the loss of a dear friend who died by suicide recently in addition to losing three family members during the pandemic, it has also helped me grow in my faith.”

As a school psychologist, Szilagyi has

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seen firsthand the impact the COVID-19 pandemic has had on children and families.

“Many of the families and children I work with already had many struggles prior to the pandemic, including housing and food insecurities, as well as previous traumas,” she said.

“When the pandemic initially hit and schools were closed down, staff had to quickly refocus their efforts to making sure that children (and their families) had food to eat, devices to stay connected and any other supports they needed.”

She said no one could have anticipated the world would still be in the midst of the pandemic almost two years later.

“Now more than ever, we are seeing a rise in mental health issues in our youth, including a significant increase in anxiety,” Szilagyi said. “This year has been by far the hardest year ever in my professional life, over 20 years, even harder than last year.”

She said when talking with others in the education field, no matter if they are new to the profession or seasoned veterans, the consensus is this is the hardest year ever.

“I have realized this year more than ever that not only are our children struggling, but so are the adults who teach and support them each and every day,” Szilagyi said, adding she uses her experiences and what she is learning through Life Recovery to share with others about how she is trying to focus on taking care of herself emotionally, physically and spiritually.

Szilagyi said what makes the group special is its diversity, a sense of community and everyone’s willingness to better themselves.

“I find that when it really comes down to it, we are all really recovering from ‘life,’ especially as we continue to deal with the ongoing pandemic and everything else in our world,” she said.

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Middlefield Post

Wednesday, January 12, 2022

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

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

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

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

What happens in your foot when you have plantar fasciitis?

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

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

Why you need to get it under control

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

People who try to tough it out on their own respond by getting off their feet and their subsequent inactivity can prompt weight gains and limiting lifestyles. Lack of exercise can create other health issues in itself.

How physical therapists can help you

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

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

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

Guarding foot health is important

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

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

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

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

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

Real Estate Transfers Following is a list of area real estate transfers for the weeks ending Dec. 24 and Dec. 31, 2021, provided as a public service by the Geauga County Auditor’s Office.

HUNTSBURG TOWNSHIP Rosellen Rummel, 13082 Bundysburg Road, to Owen and Ada Detweiler, $240,000.

(21.02 acres) The Bank of New York Mellon (trustee), 11236 Clay St., to Jeffery and Joyce Burr, $44,900. (3.03 acres) Donald R. Hibler, Chardon Windsor Road, to Mark H. and Loretta M. Erickson, $325,000. (39.95 acres) Robert W. Thompson, 16192 Mayfield Road, to Arnulfo Rios Jr. and Yesenia Sanchez, $250,000. (1.00 acres) Jeanette Stanton (trustee), Chardon Windsor Road, to William W. and Erma D. Miller, $115,000. (24.17 acres) MIDDLEFIELD TOWNSHIP Liese Toohig (trustee), 13906 Old State Road, to Liese Toohig and Jasen R. Miller,

$282,200. (4.49 acres) Kristen and Matthew Brickman, 14020 Bundysburg Road, to Johnny and Susan Tripodo, $330,000. (1.50 acres) MKM High Stakes Limited, 14535 Old State Road, to C.T. Miller LLP, $100,000.

(20.28 acres) Louis and Charles Todaro, 13862 Old State Road, to Louis Todaro, $84,800. (3.18 acres) Louis and Charles Todaro, 16990 Bridge Road, to Louis Todaro, $22,200. (5.32 acres) MIDDLEFIELD VILLAGE Middlefield Parkway, 15232 Woodsong Drive, to Alron Homes LLC, $54,900. (0.21 acres) Mario and Dusana Grbac, 15065 S. State Ave., to Eric Meister Properties LLC, $375,500. (0.51 acres) Wanda J. Sly, 14815 Maple Ave., to Robert M. Stucky Jr., $146,500. (0.33 acres) PARKMAN TOWNSHIP Allen Ray and Adam Yoder, 17243 Madison Road, to John Mark and Ellen D. Troyer, $196,000. (1.00 acres)

Middlefield Post

Wednesday, January, 2022

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Classifieds AUTOS & PARTS

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

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

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

Billard dumbbell weight plates and collars, golf bag with irons, high chair with tray, iron doorstop, sleds, Best Offer. 440729-1082 Shop AVON at home or office. Delivery and a 100% Satisfaction Guarantee.

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

PETS & ANIMALS Bernedoodle puppies. Cute & adorable.

Vet checked & shots, 1-yr health guarantee. Will be ready February 4th. $1,200.

440-636-3046.

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

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

SERVICES

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

440-834-2216.

karlovecmediagroup

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

NOW HIRING!

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

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

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

Outside Sales Van w/hitch taxi service. All hours.

Opening for a crew. Call James 440-3217555.

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

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

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

No answer, leave message.

Tree service, tree removal, tree trimming, complete cleanup. Free estimates.

Amish owned. 440-904-0506.

NOW HIRING

In Chardon and Middlefield

Managers • Drivers • Cooks We offer competitive wages

We offer 401(k), paid vacations, advancement opportunities and much more! We are looking for customer-focused, high energy people to be part of our winning team!

Please apply at jobs.pizzahut.com http://jobs.pizzahut.com or Text: THEHUT to 242424

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

MIDDLEFIELD POST

440-729-7667

20 words for $12

Karlovec Media Group is hiring account representatives to sell print and online advertising in and around Geauga County, specifically in the Chesterland and Kirtland areas. We are seeking self-motivated and aggressive salespeople who aren’t afraid of a challenge. Karlovec Media Group publishes the Geauga County Maple Leaf, Chesterland News, Middlefield Post, Kirtland Chronicle and Geauga Now. Sales areas will include both print and online media. Candidates must be able to manage time wisely, meet deadlines and have reliable transportation. All of our staff must be willing to work in a team environment to help grow our newspapers. The ability to understand and live with a deadline-driven business is a must. The ideal candidate would have at least two years of sales experience.

Required skills: • Professional appearance and strong interpersonal skills.

• Maintain established clients and generate new ad accounts.

• Attain new business accounts and sponsorships.

• Generate revenue and meet sales targets.

• Establish, maintain and grow relationships with client base and agencies.

• Familiarity with online advertising and social media platforms a plus.

There is an established client list included.

Newspaper Delivery Driver needed to drop off newspapers at retail locations throughout Geauga County. Delivery must be done on Wednesdays and Thursdays during regular business hours – completed by Thursday at noon. This is not delivery of individual subscriptions.

Must have own vehicle and valid drivers’ license. Based out of Geauga Maple Leaf’s Chardon office.

Freelance Writer Must have print writing experience. Areas in need of coverage include, but are not limited to, Chester Township, West Geauga Schools, Geauga County Commissioners, Chardon City Council and Planning Commission, Montville Township and Thompson Township government meetings, features and local events.

Submit resumes to editor@geaugamapleleaf.com

Deadline: Friday at Noon

Middlef ield Community News from Middlefield, Parkman, Huntsburg and Surrounding Areas

POST

www.GeaugaMapleLeaf.com

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Middlefield Post

Wednesday, January 12, 2022