Middlefield Post 01-13-2020

Wednesday, January 13, 2021 • Vol. 14 No. 17 • FREE

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Community News from Middlefield, Parkman, Huntsburg and Surrounding Areas

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Middlef ield Parkman Fiscal Officer Resigns Abruptly

By Diane Ryder editor@geaugamapleleaf.com After five years in office, Parkman Township Fiscal Officer Nina Reed resigned without warning at the beginning of the trustees annual organizational meeting Jan. 5.

“After we said the pledge, she just turned in her resignation in a brief letter of maybe two sentences and walked out, leaving the three of us with our chins on the table,”

County Fair Gets Subgrant For COVID-19 Expenditures

Trustee Chairman Dennis Ikeler told the Geauga County Maple Leaf by phone Jan. 11.

The move came as a total surprise, especially to Ikeler, who is also Reed’s father.

“We don’t make a big deal of that and she and I never talk about the township when we’re together,” the trustee said. “I don’t know what happened. Something obviously did and she wouldn’t take it anymore.”

Reed was first elected to the

position in November of 2015, defeating an 18-month incumbent, Kathy Clossin, by 12 votes.

Ikeler said his daughter’s Reed unexpected move couldn’t have come at a worse time.

Under Ohio law, townships hold organizational meetings at the beginning of each year, choosing officers

and passing a laundry list of routine requirements set forth by the state.

Normally, a township’s fiscal officer runs the annual organizational meeting according to a set script.

Her abrupt departure left trustees fending for themselves.

“We had no choice,” Ikeler said.

“We went ahead and took our own minutes, took care of the organizational part and ended the meeting.”

See Parkman • Page 6

Just How Big are the Potholes?

By Emily Crebs editor@geaugamapleleaf.com

Geauga County Commissioners unanimously passed a Coronavirus Aid, Relief and Economic Security (CARES) subgrant for the Geauga County Agricultural Society at their Dec. 19 meeting.

The grant, totaling $156,646, covers coronavirus-related expenses incurred in preparation for The Great Geauga County Fair.

While it was uncertain whether the county fair would be a full or junior fair for the majority of the pandemic summer, on July 28, Gov. Mike DeWine ordered all fairs be limited to junior fairs.

Commissioner Tim Lennon spoke of the dedication of the fair board members in putting on a fair despite the state’s ever-changing coronavirus guidelines and orders.

“A lot of these hoops were thrown at us last second, and we jumped through them,” Lennon said. “They’re not for free, these hoops, and a lot of this was cost incurred prior to even knowing we were going to be reimbursed or whatever.”

Commissioner Ralph Spidalieri added many offices worked together to overcome the challenges of putting on a fair this year.

“From the prosecutor’s office to the auditor’s office, to the fair, they See Fair • Page 5

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Someone on Nash Road near the intersection of state Route 168 in Parkman Township drew attention to the fact there is a serious pothole along the roadway by placing a pair of upside down pants and boots, and an Amish hat and a cooler to look like somebody has fallen in head first up to the waist.

Detweiler Carriage Shop Carries on Traditions

By Ann Wishart ann@geaugamapleleaf.com Two days before Christmas, seven Amish buggies stood in two rows at Detweiler’s Carriage Shop waiting for delivery.

Three others were in transit on the truck accompanied by shop owner Albert Detweiler on a cold winter morning.

Andrew Detweiler, his brother, said the five-man operation has been working hard to fill an uncommonly large number of orders.

“Winter is usually slow,” he said. “This winter’s been crazy.

Our winter has been booked full.”

See Carriage • Page 4

ANN WISHART/KMG

John Detweiler, founder of Detweiler Carriage, builds the hardwood buggy frames for new orders at his home. The frames are finished and attached to undercarriages at the shop on Tavern Road in Troy Township.

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Wednesday, January 13, 2021

Middlefield Post

Town Crier Audubon Highlights Forest Management

Jan. 19, 7 p.m.

Blackbrook Audubon presents “Forest Management for Bird Conservation,” a virtual program with Rebecah Troutman, natural areas biologist with The Holden Arboretum.

Troutman will describe how Holden uses The Working Woods, a 67-acre living laboratory and demonstration forest, to test woodland management techniques to improve forest health.

Register on the event page of blackbrookaudubon.org. A link will be sent to each registrant’s email address. Attendees may enter the meeting at 6:30 p.m.

Red Cross Blood Drives

As COVID-19 cases have risen across the United States, so has the need for convalescent plasma.

Those who donate in January will be automatically entered to win a getaway to next year’s Super Bowl LVI in Los Angeles. In addition, those who come to give Jan. 1-20 will also be automatically entered to win a Big Game at Home package.

Donation appointments may be made by downloading the free Blood Donor App, visiting RedCrossBlood.org or calling 1-800-7332767.

Jan. 22, Heritage Place Auction Barn Event Center, 15848 Nauvoo Road, Middlefield, 3-7 p.m.

Jan. 30, Parkman Community House, 16295 Main Market Road, Parkman Township, 2-8 p.m.

Spring Fish Sale

April 15, 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, white amurs and yellow perch. Pond safety kit are also available.

Visit www.geaugaswcd.com or call 440834-1122 to obtain an order form and instructions regarding fish pickup.

Order deadline is April 9. To guarantee, send a completed order form with payment to Geauga SWCD, PO Box 410, Burton, OH 44021, or call the office to pay by credit card.

All proceeds support the district’s education programs.

On Campus Erin Ross, of Middlefield, graduated summa cum laude from Ohio Wesleyan University with a bachelor of arts degree. Ross majored in communication and journalism and minored in English.

Jordyn Granito, of Middlefield, was named to the dean’s list at University of Mount Union for the fall semester.

Abby Carlson, of Huntsburg Township, and Erin Ross, of Middlefield, were named to Ohio Wesleyan University’s fall semester dean’s list.

Wednesday, January 13, 2021

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Middlefield Post

A Glimpse of Yesteryear

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By Rick Seyer This group of Middlefield ladies was known as the Women’s Christian Temperance Union (WCTU). They were all concerned about the problems that alcohol created in the family and society; they choose total abstinence from it and crusaded tirelessly against it. These ladies were usually

the wives of Middlefield’s prominent businessmen.

In 1906, an election was held in Middlefield to allow the sale of alcohol in the village and, because at this time women did not have the right to vote, it passed by an overwhelming “yes” vote of the male citizens. From the looks on the faces here, I don’t think the ladies were very happy about it.

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When prohibition outlawed the sale and manufacture of alcohol, some citizens chose to start making their own illegally. The WCTU carried on and in this picture you can see the results of a raid on an illegal still.

The WCTU ladies shown entering the

door were there to inspect the results of a raid. You can see the many barrels that were used in the making of illegal alcohol that were confiscated. The rear of the building is the old Town Hall on East High Street next to Centerra.

Community Meetings Listed are public meetings and executive sessions in Huntsburg, Middlefield and Parkman townships, and the Village of Middlefield for the coming weeks. Please note: These meeting notices are NOT legal notices.

Huntsburg Township: Jan. 19, 7 p.m., Board of Trustees. All meetings held at the Town Hall, 16534 Mayfield Road.

Middlefield Village: Jan. 14, 5 p.m. – Parks & Recreation, 5:30 p.m. – Finance & Ordinance, 6:30 p.m. – Public Safety, 7 p.m.

– Village Council. All meetings are at the Municipal Center, 14860 N. State Ave.

Parkman Township: Jan. 19, 7 p.m., Board of Trustees, via Microsoft Teams. All meetings are held at the Community House, 16295 Main Market Road, unless otherwise noted. (Trustees will hold the second meeting of the month via Microsoft Teams. Those interested in joining the meeting should contact Trustee Dennis Ikeler at dennisikeler@ gmail for the link.)

Cardinal BOE: Jan. 13, 5:30 p.m., organizational meeting followed by budget hearing at 5:45 p.m. and regular meeting at 6 p.m., BOE Office, 15982 E. High St., Middlefield.

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

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Middlefield Post

ANN WISHART/KMG

While most Amish buggies are enclosed, an open carriage is being repaired at Detweiler Carriage by owners Albert and Andrew Detweiler. Albert said the shop occasionally builds or repairs carriages for people who drive teams in competition.

Carriage from page 1

The three-generation business builds about 10 buggies per month for wide-spread customers. Local driver Chuck Kennedy comes by with his big enclosed truck to make deliveries, Andrew said.

While making those rounds, Kennedy and Albert usually pick up five or six buggies that need to be repaired or refurbished and bring them back to the shop at 16659 Tavern Road, Albert said later in a phone interview.

The new buggies are custom made from orders Andrew and Albert receive from all over the local Amish settlement and sometimes from New York and Pennsylvania.

The brothers, as well as Albert’s son, Steven, and Mark Miller (Albert and Andrew’s nephew) operate the pristine, well-lit shop, but the founder of the business, John Detweiler, 74, builds the hardwood buggy frames in his shop on Burton Windsor Road in Burton Township.

“We take the order and tell Dad (John) what we need and he builds it,” Andrew said.

“I started with Dad when I was in eighth grade about 20 years ago.”

When a frame arrives at the Tavern Road shop, it has to be sanded until smooth. Steven, 14, does a lot of the sanding, Albert said.

The wooden frame is primed, sanded again and painted. Then, the crew adds the roof, thickly-padded seats, roll-up vinyl curtains and electrical lighting powered by a rechargeable battery, Andrew said.

The light control board containing a row

of blue lights is mounted on the inside front panel of the buggy. It is framed with wooden cup holders made by Miller, 22.

The Detweilers also refurbish older carriages, often adding wiring and lights.

The steel undercarriage for new buggies and carts is built at the shop and the fiberglass, steel-rimmed wheels are bought from Townline Repairs in Middlefield Township, then painted a shiny black, Andrew said.

While they make the wooden shafts and other parts for the buggies and keep a reasonable inventory, some parts must be ordered.

As many businesses have found in 2020, getting parts and supplies in a timely manner is a challenge since delivery systems everywhere have been backed up by COVID-19-related challenges and holiday gift mailing, Andrew said.

What is usually a two- or three-day wait for parts has stretched out to more than a week, sometimes complicating buggy construction, he said, adding they try to keep an inventory of parts.

“We stock most parts. You can’t sell it if you don’t have it,” Andrew said.

The family also builds and sells jog carts — one-person carts that resemble racing sulkies — used to exercise a family’s carriage horses, he said.

The horses, typically bay standardbreds, need to be kept in condition so they can pull a buggy, loaded with a family, to church on Sunday or go to the store for the weekly grocery shopping, Andrew said.

Other Geauga County residents are used See Detweiler • Page 5

Wednesday, January 13, 2021

Detweiler from page 4

to seeing the uniformly black buggies on the road and in the parking lots at area stores.

While some may have more fluorescent tape on the back and front so they are more visible to faster-moving traffic after dark, buggies in the Middlefield settlement are mostly identical. Some are single-seat for two people, while others have a back seat and each has a storage space in the rear. But all are black.

“That’s the way it has always been,” Albert said.

John started the business about 40 years ago. Albert worked building houses for 20 years and when John was ready to step back in 2014, Albert and Andrew built the 5,000-square-foot shop to accommodate the growing business.

Albert said for the five to construct and deliver 10 new buggies per month and make repairs to a few more can be a challenge, but they work to meet the demand

Fair

from page 1 took on a huge, huge challenge and it’s just, it’s so comforting to see the amount of coordination and the way that everybody worked together through this having limited resources as far as billable people,” Spidalieri said.

Commissioner Jim Dvorak echoed Spidalieri’s praise.

“It just shows a true testament that Geauga County and its people fight back,” Dvorak said. “I mean, no matter what was thrown at the fair board, they handled it, they figured it out, they didn’t hide under the bed and say woe is me.”

As for the CARES fund accessible to other municipalities, Geauga County Auditor Chuck Walder said only one municipality — Aquilla Village — did not take CARES money.

Walder created resources on the county’s website to educate local government leaders on acquiring coronavirus funds.

“I’ve heard horror stories from other auditors where they’re giving back 80% of the money because people just said it’s too much work,” Walder said. “That’s not really being true to the taxpayers. We’re here to work.”

In other business, the commissioners tabled the appointment of Eric Fink to the NorthEast Ohio Community Alternative Program governing board until more information was gathered about the board and the position.

“Eric Fink, I’m not familiar with him,” Lennon said.

Middlefield Post

that continues to increase.

“No local carriage shop around puts out the number of buggies we do,” he said. “It’s busy.”

The main part of the building that can hold 10 buggies in various stages of construction has office space and a wide shed down one side. Across the workshop is an addition where wheels and shafts lean neatly against a wall and half a dozen jog carts are lined up with their shafts up in the air.

A wagon, waiting for some attention, is parked in the side yard.

“We need all the room we have,” Albert said.

But they don’t need to worry about decorating a show room or customizing carriages for their Amish customers. There are only a few options and next year’s models won’t be different from last year’s models.

Albert is comfortable with the tradition his family is carrying on in the community.

“We’ve added lights, but the style and shape are the same as they have always been,” he said.

Commissioners’ Clerk Christine Blair explained that Fink is an attorney in Kent.

“Sometimes I’m a little uncomfortable appointing people that I absolutely have no idea who they are or really what’s imploring this or where this is coming from,” Lennon said.

The commissioners also approved the creation of the position of fiscal assistant and senior fiscal specialist.

Lennon voiced support for the positions, which Budget and Finance Manager Adrian Gorton designed.

“Really, the thing I liked the most about it is that not only have you created an environment for growth, but also the ability for everyone to be able to kind of do each other’s jobs just in case somebody is out,” Lennon said.

At the end of the meeting, Newell Howard asked the commissioners when people 80 years and older in Geauga County would receive a coronavirus vaccine.

County Administrator Gerry Morgan replied that it is not yet known when those individuals will receive the vaccine, and that decision will come from state government.

“This is pretty much the same as the way everything else has gone with the coronavirus,” Morgan said. “We’re waiting on people higher than us to make decisions to tell us, and we expect them to come the day before we’re supposed to do something about it.”

Geauga County Commissioners held an organization meeting in addition to their regularly scheduled meeting Jan. 5.

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Cardinal Schools

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Merry Lou Knuckles, second from left, celebrates her retirement with board office staff on Dec. 16. From left are Julie Sly, Knuckles, Bill Kermavner, Julia Rozsnyai and Rebecca Fisher.

District Treasurer Retires

Congratulations to former district Treasurer Merry Lou “MLou” Knuckles on her retirement. After 14 and one-half years working for the district, she is starting this new chapter in her life.

Knuckles came to the district in 2006 from the Ohio State Auditor’s Office. Under her guidance, the district received multiple Auditor of State Awards for clean and accurate record-keeping. The award is given to those entities that file timely financial reports in accordance with GAAP, as well as receive a “clean” audit report by the State of Ohio.

In addition to being the district treasurer,

Parkman from page 1

When reached by phone Monday, Reed said, “I resigned because of professional differences that led to an uncomfortable work environment. That’s the reason I gave in my letter.”

She declined to elaborate.

“I have a full-time job and was only doing it part time to help out the community,” Reed said. “I’m looking forward to being able to spend more time with my family now.”

Ikeler added, “She doesn’t want to discuss it with me,” Ikeler said.

Parkman has seen rapid turnover of fiscal

Knuckles also spent several years as the middle school cheerleading advisor. She is also an alumna of the district.

Staff had a chance to celebrate Knuckles and wish her well during a retirement open house held at the board of education office on Dec. 16, where all COVID protocols were in place. Her last official day on the job was Dec. 31.

Thank you, MLou, for your years of dedicated service to the district - enjoy retirement.

Julia Rozsnyai has been hired as the district’s new treasurer. Her official first day was Jan. 1. officers for the past decade. In June of 2014, Fiscal Officer Joyce Peters resigned suddenly after a little more than two years in office.

She had defeated Denise Bowers by 51 votes in the November 2011 election.

In July of 2014, trustees appointed Kathy Clossin to the position, but in the November 2015 election, Reed defeated Clossin by 12 votes.

Under Ohio law, when a fiscal officer resigns during their term, township trustees have 30 days in which to name a replacement who will serve in this case until Reed’s term is up in 2023.

Ikeler said two qualified township residents have applied for the position, which he hopes will be filled at the next trustees meeting.

“Both of them run their own businesses and have good people skills,” the trustee said. “It’s unfortunate that whoever we appoint will need to jump right in. This time of year will be busy, with preparing W-2’s and all the end-of-the-year stuff.”

He said trustees will interview the candidates separately, one-on-one, at a special meeting Jan. 15 at 2 p.m.

Ikeler said Geauga County Auditor Chuck Walder has offered to provide an employee’s assistance to the township to bring the new fiscal officer up to speed and trustees will welcome the help.

“This past year has been a zoo in Parkman Township,” Ikeler said. “It’s been crazy, to say the least.”

Classifieds

20 words for $10 What a bargain!

Wednesday, January 13, 2021

Middlefield Post

East Geauga Kiwanis Honors Outstanding Third-Graders

East Geauga Kiwanis Club recently recognized outstanding third-graders Addie U. (left), Willow K. (right) and Amanda F. (not pictured) from Jordak Elementary School for their performance in school during the first grading period. Each student received a certificate from the club as well as four literature books.

New Pastor Welcomed at Huntsburg Congregational Submitted Huntsburg Congregational Church, 12435 Madison Road, welcomed Pastor R.J. Zupancich on Oct. 4, where he preached his first sermon on Oct. 11.

Pastor R.J. and his family were homesick and interested in returning to Ohio from North Carolina. A friend told him about the opportunity in Huntsburg and after a Sunday sermon and a vote of the members, things moved along quickly, with Zupancich accepting the pastorate.

After arriving in Huntsburg, and even before his first sermon, Pastor R.J. immediately pitched in for traffic control at the church’s carryout dinner. He felt blessed with an opportunity to talk and pray with the visitors as they waited in their vehicles. Just three weeks later, he supported the congregation after worship when the furnace malfunctioned. In this short time, the parishioners have quickly come to appreciate Pastor R.J. and his family.

Born in Eastlake, Ohio, his family lived in several states during his childhood because of his dad’s occupation. The trend continued with Pastor R.J., his wife, Monica, and their son, Micah, when the Lord called him to serve at different churches.

While pursuing his bachelor’s degree in business administration from the University of Akron, he met Monica at The Chapel in Akron. His original goal was to obtain a marketing degree so he could “make a lot of money.” His heart and motives changed from the secular world to the desire to follow Christ and he eagerly shares how the gospel changed him in his early 20s. After receiving his degree, R.J. then enrolled at Trinity International University in Deerfield, Ill., where he received his Master of Religion degree.

Pastor R.J. has a passion to lead the congregation to share the good news of Christ with each other and in the community. His sermons are based on daily application messages and remain faithful to Bible teachings. He has been busy learning about the church family, visiting parishioners, meeting with other pastors and hold-

SUBMITTED

R. J. Zupancich, with his wife Monica and son Micah, is the new pastor at Huntsburg Congregational Church.

ing breakfast fellowship meetings.

“The world needs the gospel and we must be faithful and believe in His power to transform,” says Pastor R.J. “Laws won’t change the condition of the world and the human heart. With prayer and by believing and accepting, things can change.”

He mentioned a survey from a couple years ago that gave warning about the youth and children in the world. It found that they believe Jesus was a sinner, there is no Hell and there are many ways to Heaven. Pastor R.J. tells us his heart’s desire is that churches work together to reach youth and children.

He says his direction as pastor is “to reach and make disciples. If I sacrifice something in my life to reach out to youth and children, I want to do that.”

He is praying that Huntsburg Congregational Church can reach youth and children in the surrounding communities early in their lives so they find their way to Christ. He is promoting two groups established at the Church: GEMS (Girls Everywhere Meeting the Savior) and Christian Service Brigade for boys. Information on how to join both groups is available by calling 440-636-5504 or by email at hcongch@windstream.net.

During this time of social distancing, his sermons can be viewed on YouTube. Contact Pastor Zupancich with concerns and needs.

Worship is held at 10:30 a.m. every Sunday .

All are welcome.

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Middlefield Post

Libraries All events are virtual unless otherwise noted. For virtual programs, include an email when registering; instructions for picking up craft materials and joining the Zoom meeting will be provided upon registration. To register, visit www.GeaugaLibrary.net and click on “Programs.”

Storytimes

Jan. 14 and 15, 11-11:30 a.m.

Jan. 13, 6-6:30 p.m.

Join for stories on Zoom. All ages welcome.

Staying Safe Online

Jan. 14, 7 p.m.

Learn how protect oneself and one’s family by maintaining online privacy and security.

Discussion covers home computers, laptops, tablets and phones as well as software tools and best practices for getting the most of one’s time online while reducing the risk.

Sounds of the Night

Jan. 15, 2 p.m.

Geauga Park District presents “Sounds of the Night.” Find out what creatures are making the orchestra of mysterious sounds one hears at night.

Quilt Block- Festive Pillowcases

Jan. 16, 10 a.m. to noon Learn a quick and easy way to make a festive pillowcase with a cuff, flange and French seams, all in under an hour. Visit the website for a list of supplies needed.

Take and Make Snow Craft

Jan. 18 Teens in grades 6-12 will get into the winter spirit by picking up a fun craft kit from the Geauga West Branch. Kit includes supplies and directions for a paper lantern and glass bead snowflake. Upon registration, teens will be provided pickup instructions via email.

Take and Make Bird Craft

Jan. 18 - Feb. 5 Participate in national Feed the Birds month in February. In the take and make kit from the Geauga West Branch, receive two wooden bird cut outs to decorate, as well as birdseed and a recipe to create ornaments to hang in trees at home. Register and call ahead to pick up the kit during open hours.

Geauga Park District For more information, contact the park district at 440-286-9516 or visit www.geaugaparkdistrict.org. No registration required unless otherwise noted.

Free Snowshoe Borrowing

Geauga Park District’s free snowshoe borrowing program returns to The West Woods in Russell Township. Snowshoes for ages 3 to 6 and under 50 pounds are also now available.

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.

Though a call to 440-279-0880 may be made to check availability, no reservations are taken.

Snowshoes will be available on a first-come, first-served basis. Snowshoes may not leave The West Woods except for registered programs.

Park District Live Geauga Park District reminds residents of its diverse lineup of live virtual programming, which can be easily enjoyed home via a computer, tablet or phone by following a link that is sent upon registration.

Virtual visitors this winter will be treated to a variety of topics using the free software Webex, including: A Photographic Retrospective of Nature During a Pandemic on Jan. 17, All About Maple Syrup on Jan. 23, The Physiology of Birdsong on Feb. 28, different maple sugaring programs for adults and children on March 8, monthly jam sessions on Thursday nights and monthly astronomy topics on Friday nights.

Visit the park district website to view a complete list of this season’s virtual offerings, as well as any late additions.

Wednesday, January 13, 2021

Middlefield Post

Faith Matters The Gift of Music

Have you ever considered the God-given gift of music and what it means to our lives? Perhaps you have never thought about music as being a “gift of God.” It is!

Every good thing that we enjoy is ultimately a token of God’s love and His desire to bless us. Inherent to the nature of God is a great love of music. Even heaven will resound with many spine-tingling tunes of praise to the Lord. He imagined it, designed us to enjoy it, and created gifted musicians who produce many different styles. What’s your favorite? Pop, Country, Jazz, Classical, Soul or Gospel? The list could go on.

Music is bread and butter to every culture and people group. Music inspires, entertains and shapes us.

Wherever I go in the world, I have seen the unique and powerful part that music plays in our daily lives. Whether in the small, hidden villages of India, the slums of Nairobi, the barrios of Latin America or the magnificent cathedrals of England, music is interwoven into the fabric of life and faith. Even my grandchildren love to wiggle and dance when a particular tune gets them moving!

When I do my running, I usually wear earphones and enjoy some preferred tunes that help me to keep going. Although I sometimes tap into the “Oldies” of the 60s & 70s I grew up with, more often I choose By Roger Kruse to listen to faith-oriented music. It reminds me of God’s presence and peace in my life, His strength in my weakness and His promises that never fail. Allow me to share a couple songs with you.

Jaci Valasquez is a gifted singer/songwriter who inspires me with her passionate faith and beautiful voice. Her song “You’re Just a Prayer Away” reminds us that prayer links us to God’s intervention and help. Simple words of faith, like these, can take root deep within our soul, and become a spiritual boost to keep us moving forward.

You’re just a prayer away No matter where I am I know in my heart You’re never too far When I’m losing my way

You’re just a prayer away My strength is in my faith I’m never alone I’m never afraid Cause you’re just a prayer away

Amy Grant sings a powerful song entitled, “Better than a Hallelujah”. It reminds us of the truth of the words of David in Psalm 34:18. “The Lord is close to the brokenhearted and saves those who are crushed in spirit.” Let’s take a look at the lyrics.

God loves a lullaby In a mother’s tears in the dead of night Better than a Hallelujah sometimes God loves the drunkard’s cry The soldier’s plea not to let him die Better than a Hallelujah sometimes

We pour out our miseries God just hears a melody Beautiful, the mess we are The honest cries of breaking hearts Are better than a Hallelujah

Life can sometimes knock us down and suck the life right out of us. However, such moments become an opportunity for faith to come alive and take root. When stress, discouragement or even despair threaten to undo you, your cry to God will certainly be heard. A needy and seeking heart, God will never reject.

Enjoy whatever music you choose. Remember, too, that you can find encouragement and inspiration as you listen to faith-filled musicians who infuse their lyrics with a determined trust in God. Take a listen on your favorite music site to the songs I shared and others like them.

And don’t forget to say “thank you” to the God who put rhythm in your soul!

Roger Kruse loves the great hymns of the church sung by majestic choirs in the cathedrals of England.

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Wednesday, January 13, 2021

Middlefield Post

Help Wanted Farm help in Huntsburg.

440-636-5747.

Tree Service looking for:

Climbers and Residential/Line Clearance Foreman $40 to $65,000 per year.

Tree Service/Land Clearing company seeking

CLASS A TRUCK DRIVER/OPERATOR (Class A CDL required)

Full-time position with benefits.

Experience a must.

Must have valid Drivers License and pass drug screen.

Loaded with Winter work and overtime.

TOP PAY commensurate with experience.

4% 401k match, paid holidays, paid health insurance, and paid vacation.

Vision and Dental coverage also available.

Join the Midwest Land Clearing team!

(440) 338-5005 Mary or email marydigeronimo@vancurentreecare.com

Fully paid Individual Health Benefits, Paid Vaca�on, Paid Holidays, Year-Round Work, O.T., Dental & Eye coverage available, 4% 401k match, Bonuses.

Equipment intensive:

4 22-50 ton Cranes, 5 Log Trucks, Sennebogan, 89’ Backyard Li�, 75’ buckets.

440-338-5005 Mary Equal opportunity employer – Drug Free Workplace

Equal opportunity employer – Drug Free Workplace

Middlefield Post 440-729-7667

20 words for $10

Deadline: Friday at Noon

Classifieds AUTOS & PARTS

SERVICES

Cash for Junk Vehicles: running or not, classics/big trucks/etc., free removal, call/text Zac 440-679-7293.

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

FOR RENT For Lease Burton: Small Gatehouse apartment on our farm. 1 bedroom. AC, large attached garage, laundry hook ups. Smoking prohibited. $650 per month.

440-221-0649

FOR SALE

Joe Eicher doing roofing, siding, remodeling, cleanout houses, we do most anything, Call between 8am and 4pm, 440813-4272. No answer, leave message.

Two Used JL Audio 12W6v2 Subs, Two Used Pioneer Mono PDX-M6 Amps. All Wiring Included. Excellent Condition.

Priced To Sell. $300. Text 440-552-4400.

Snowblower 45” Troy Bilt. Good Runner.

Too Much For Old Guy. $450. Chainsaw 20” STIHL. Make Offer. 440.286.3295.

Vermont Castings, free standing, vent free natual gas stove. 440-632-5145.

Brown eggs from free range hens, no antibiotics, no hormones. $3/doz. Local beef & hay St Rt 608 Claridon. Some deliveries available. 440-636-5747 Vintage Withington toboggan 8ft with pad, DeWalt 1-3/4 hp motor table saw w/ extend table, mobile base execellent condition, 440-834-1850.

Antique humpback chests, $89, $169; Glider/Rocker maple $394 new asking $69, $98; antique english sideboard $285 walnut, marble. 440-338-3563.

GARAGE/ESTATE SALES If you need to have a moving sale or estate sale call Kathy Willis at 440-8403226, partial estate buyouts also.

PETS & ANIMALS Gypsy – young-adult female tabby needs new indoor home. Prefers to be an only cat. Very social, very sweet, spayed, vaccinated. 440-321-2485.

REAL ESTATE INVEST OR LIVE Here- 2bdr. condo, Colonial Park, Chardon. New carpet, hardwood, luxury vinyl. Private end unit. $77,900 Call 440-632-8334.

www.GeaugaMapleLeaf.com

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

WANTED TO BUY Old fishing tackle wanted: fishing lures (wood or plastic), tackle boxes, wooden duck decoys. Call Lee at 440-313-8331.

Wanted ‘65-‘67 Mustang Convertible, and other muscle cars needing repair, call/ text 440-832-1465.

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

CLASSIFIEDS 440-729-7667

Wednesday, January 13, 2021

Page 11

Middlefield Post

Real Estate Transfers Following is a list of area real estate transfers for the weeks ending Dec. 23 and Dec. 31, 2020, provided as a public service by the Geauga County Auditor’s Office.

HUNTSBURG TOWNSHIP Douglas E. and Elaine T. Carter (trustee), 12185 Zrolka Drive, to Christine A. Blech and James E. Schmidt, $306,000. (3.77 acres) Jeanette Stanton (trustee), 16250 Chardon Windsor Road, to Jamie L. and Eric Peck, $44,000. (12.59 acres) The Chagrin Valley Astronomical Society, 15733 Huntley Road, to Joel L. and Tara A. Mathys, $19,500. (5.05 acres) MIDDLEFIELD TOWNSHIP Edward J. and Susan E. Bender (TOD), 15842 Newcomb Road, to Nathaniel and Mary Ann Byler, $129,200. (15.19 acres) Edward J. and Susan E. Bender (TOD), 15842 Newcomb Road, to Mark and Judy Hershberger, $311,700. (51.86 acres) Rose and Mildred T. and Robert E. and Joan M. Kmiecik (co-trustees), 17220 Shedd Road, to James M. Chura, $140,000. (60.00 acres)

MIDDLEFIELD VILLAGE Alan W. and Brenda K. Lowe, 15884 Grove St., to Jeffrey and Michelle Bruno, $85,000. (0.31 acres) Middlefield Parkway, Royal Oak Drive, to Lois N. Mullett, $53,900. (0.24 acres) Lacomb LLC, 15924 West High St., to Van Boxel Rentals LLC, $160,000. (0.11 acres) Freedom Mortgage Corporation, 14790 Cedarwood Court, to Dave Mance, $109,000.

(0.25 acres) Sure Consultants LLC, 15787 Grove St., to Sara and Jack Cochran Jr., $298,000. (1.40 acres) Daniel, Jack, Robert and Jennifer Craig, and Joni Merrill, 15885 Grove St., to Dawn M. and Alan R. Mighton Jr., $198,000. (1.00 acres) Red Creek Development Corporation, Kinsman Road, to Wesley and Regina Shrock, $434,200. (8.68 acres) PARKMAN TOWNSHIP Bonnie K. Vaughan (trustee), 16560 Old State Road, to MJS & HNS, $275,000. (2.00 acres)

NEWS • FEATURES • SPORTS• DESIGN/LAYOUT • PHOTOGRAPHY • WEBSITE

5–Time

Police Blotter The following is a sampling of the calls handled by the Middlefield Village Police Department Dec. 23, 2020, through Jan. 6, 2021.

CITIZEN DISPUTE Dec. 24 11:54 a.m., South Springdale Avenue, Middlefield. Irate customer won’t leave. Male was violent, loud and caused a scene.

White male in his 40s, 280 pounds, balding and scruffy, gray t-shirt, basketball shorts, 5 year old with him. Officer spoke with store manager who stated male didn’t like that he had to put a mask on and refused to leave at first. Male eventually left prior to officers arrival. No threats of violence occurred. Nothing further.

Dec. 28 7:19 p.m., South Springdale Avenue, Middlefield. White male, skinny, wearing baseball cap, giving manager a hard time, calling people “white n------.” Male has left store on foot. Was flipping people off, unknown weapons. Talking about “killing the world.”

Male appears to be under the influence.

Male is alone. Deputy responded. Male said someone called him an unpatriotic American and he left. Male checks OK and advised he was going home.

Dec. 31 4:36 p.m., West High Street, Middlefield.

Customer is upset because they gave her the wrong food and then made her repay for her whole order. Officer arrived on scene and spoke with manager who said this woman orders food frequently and every time she tries to tell Burger King employees her order is wrong. Spoke with customer via telephone and she was less than thrilled to speak with officer. She said she called corporate and was done with the situation. She was advised of the plethora of other places to eat if the service at BK was not to her satisfaction.

DISORDERLY Dec. 26 6:55 p.m., South Springdale Avenue, Mid-

dlefield. Two irate customers refusing to wear a mask. Still on grocery side and employees still telling them to leave.

They are refusing to leave. They have put their masks on but are threatening an employee. They have been told police called. Male customer told employee she was going to be in trouble with store management for her attitude. Officer advised the pair to leave the store and they complied.

JUVENILE PROBLEM Dec. 26 11:53 a.m., Madison Road, Middlefield. Possible DV between daughter and father.

Third-party call from the boyfriend. Caller is next door in his car. Caller does not know father’s name. Text message from her said he was tackling her and hitting her. Unknown weapons. They do smoke marijuana and drink. GCSO responded.

Daughter was upset because her father was not allowing her to see her boyfriend.

She is not happy with her dad’s rules. Father took her cell phone and she became very upset and unruly. Advice provided to all parties. Caller asked not to return for the day.

TRAFFIC CRASH Dec. 27 8:05 a.m., Kinsman Road, Burton. Car versus buggy. Tan four-door left toward Middlefield. Female driver. One male in buggy says he is OK. Horse also is OK.

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Hit skip with buggy. Female with ankle, buggy in the ditch. Two people in buggy.

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TRAFFIC HAZARD Dec. 24 8:24 a.m., Old State Road., Huntsburg. Horse and buggy loose with no driver. Last seen southbound on Old State from Durkee Road. While in the area searching, dispatch advised horse went back home.

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Middlefield Post

Wednesday, January 13, 2021