DATE OF SALE: Thursday, October 3, 2019

Auburn Township

Case No. 19-F-000273 — Bank of New York Mellon Trust Company, N.A., etc. vs. Julie Thompson, et al., 11681 Stafford Road (5.00 acres). PPN: 01-033550. SOLD TO PLAINTIFF FOR $73,334.00.

Chester Township

Case No. 19-F-000178 — Citizens Bank, N.A., fka RBS Citizens, N.A., fka Citizens Bank, N.A., etc. vs. Anna M. Doles, et al., 13171 Marilyn Drive (1.28 acres). PPN: 11-245800. WITHDRAWN — ORDER OF COURT.

Munson Township

Case No. 13-F-000093 — HSBC Bank USA, N.A. vs. Mark R. Nazarini, aka Mark Nazarini, et al., 12145 Burlington Glen Drive (1.84 acres). PPN: 21-176453. SOLD TO PLAINTIFF FOR $173,334.00.

Newbury Township

Case No. 17-F-000782 — The Bank of New York Mellon, f/k/a The Bank of New York, etc. vs. Patricia A. McGregor, et al., 14328 Woodlawn Road (0.37 acres). PPN: 23-192200, 23-192300, 23-192400, 23-192500, 23-192600. SOLD TO PLAINTIFF FOR $43,334.00.

Russell Township

Case No. 18-F-000853 — Wells Fargo USA Holdings, Inc., etc. vs. Milagros G. Plagata, aka Milagros Plagata, et al., 14480 Caves Road (2.07 acres). PPN: 26-167100. SOLD TO PLAINTIFF FOR $120,000.00.

Geauga County

Foreclosure Auction

Case# 18-F-000955. RoundPoint Mortgage Servicing Corporation vs John Charles Dunigan aka John C. Dunigan, et al. The description of the property to be sold is as follows:

Property Address: 148 Chardon Avenue, Chardon, Geauga, Ohio, 44024;

Legal Description: Full Legal Listed on Public Website; Parcel Number: 10-048200

Bidding will be available only on www.Auction.com opening on 10/15/2019 at 10:00 A.M. for a minimum of 7 days.

Property may be sold on a provisional sale date should the third party purchaser fail to provide their deposit within the allotted time.

Provisional Sale date: 10/29/2019 at 10:00 A.M. Sales subject to cancellation. The deposit required is $5000.00 to be paid by wire transfer within 2 hours of the sale ending. No cash is permitted.

Purchaser shall be responsible for those costs, allowances, and taxes that the proceeds of the sale are insufficient to cover.

To view all sale details and terms for this property visit www.Auction.com and enter the Search Code 18F000955 into the search bar.

Sep26 Oct3-10, 2019

Geauga County

Foreclosure Auction

Case# 18-F-000384. Nationstar Mortgage LLC d/b/a Mr. Cooper vs Burba, Shaun, et al. The description of the property to be sold is as follows:

Property Address: 17229 GAR HIGHWAY, Montville, Geauga, Ohio, 44064;

Legal Description: Full Legal Listed on Public Website; Parcel Number: 20-050900

Bidding will be available only on www.Auction.com opening on 10/15/2019 at 10:00 A.M. for a minimum of 7 days.

Property may be sold on a provisional sale date should the third party purchaser fail to provide their deposit within the allotted time.

Provisional Sale date: 10/29/2019 at 10:00 A.M. Sales subject to cancellation. The deposit required is $5000.00 to be paid by wire transfer within 2 hours of the sale ending. No cash is permitted.

Purchaser shall be responsible for those costs, allowances, and taxes that the proceeds of the sale are insufficient to cover.

To view all sale details and terms for this property visit www.Auction.com and enter the Search Code 18F000384 into the search bar.

Sep26 Oct3-10, 2019

Geauga County

Foreclosure Auction

Case# 18-F-000900. Bank of America, N.A. vs Wayne White, et al. The description of the property to be sold is as follows:

Property Address: 11117 CLARIDON-TROY ROAD, Chardon, Geauga, Ohio, 44024;

Legal Description: Full Legal Listed on Public Website; Parcel Number: 12-082000

Bidding will be available only on www.Auction.com opening on 10/22/2019 at 10:00 A.M. for a minimum of 7 days.

Property may be sold on a provisional sale date should the third party purchaser fail to provide their deposit within the allotted time.

Provisional Sale date: 11/05/2019 at 10:00 A.M. Sales subject to cancellation. The deposit required is $5000.00 to be paid by wire transfer within 2 hours of the sale ending. No cash is permitted.

Purchaser shall be responsible for those costs, allowances, and taxes that the proceeds of the sale are insufficient to cover.

To view all sale details and terms for this property visit www.Auction.com and enter the Search Code 18F000900 into the search bar.

Oct3-10-17, 2019

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, or filing an appeal may be obtained at: http://www.epa.ohio.gov/actions.aspx 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

Final Issuance of NPDES Permit

Berkshire Heights WWTP

11094 Thwing Rd, Chardon, OH

Facility Description: Wastewater-County

Receiving Water: Chagrin River East Branch

ID #: 3PG00166*AD

Date of Action: 11/01/2019

This final action not preceded by proposed action and is appealable to ERAC.

Proposed Issuance of Modification to NPDES Permit Conditions

Tarkett North

16910 Munn Rd, Chagrin Falls, OH

Facility Description: Wastewater-Organic Chemical Plant

Receiving Water: UT of Bridge Creek

ID #: 3IF00010*KD

Date of Action: 10/08/2019

Combine 3IN00376 into 3IF00010’s permit due to Tarkett taking over neighboring property

Streamlined Orders

Berkshire Hills Country Club

9760 Mayfield Rd, Chesterland, OH 44026

ID #: OH2830112

Date of Action: 10/02/2019

Streamlined Orders with a $150 penalty were issued for failure to monitor drinking water for total coliform bacteria during June 2019.

Oct10, 2019

LEGAL NOTICE

IN THE COURT OF COMMON PLEAS

GEAUGA COUNTY, OHIO

19-F-000667 – Deutsche Bank National Trust Company, as trustee, on behalf of the holders the WaMu Mortgage Pass-Through Certificates, Series 2005-AR6, Plaintiff vs. Brenda Henderson, as heir to the Estate of Marshall D. Henderson, et al., Defendants.

Brenda Henderson, as heir to the Estate of Marshall D. Henderson, whose last known address is 13389 Shady Lane, Chesterland, OH 44026, John Doe Name Unknown, the Unknown Spouse of Brenda Henderson (if any), whose last known address is 13389 Shady Lane, Chesterland, OH 44026, will take notice that on August 19, 2019, Deutsche Bank National Trust Company, as trustee, on behalf of the holders the WaMu Mortgage Pass-Through Certificates, Series 2005-AR6 filed its Complaint in the Geauga County Court of Common Pleas at 100 Short Court, Suite 300, Chardon, OH 44024, assigned Case No. 19-F-000667 and styled Deutsche Bank National Trust Company, as trustee, on behalf of the holders the WaMu Mortgage Pass-Through Certificates, Series 2005-AR6 vs. Brenda Henderson, as heir to the Estate of Marshall D. Henderson, et al. The object of, and demand for relief in, the Complaint is to foreclose the lien of Plaintiff’s mortgage recorded upon the real estate described below and in which Plaintiff alleges that the foregoing defendant has or claims to have an interest:

Parcel number(s): 11-291300

Property address: 13389 Shady Lane, Chesterland, OH 44026

The defendant named above is required to answer the Complaint within twenty-eight (28) days after the last publication of this legal notice. This legal notice will be published once a week for three successive weeks.

Deutsche Bank National

Trust Company, as trustee,

on behalf of the holders

the WaMu Mortgage

Pass-Through Certificates,

Series 2005-AR6

By Ann Marie Johnson, Attorney for Plaintiff; Manley Deas Kochalski, LLC, P.O. Box 165028, Columbus, OH 43216-5028. (614) 220-5611.

Oct10-17-24, 2019

NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING

APPLICATION FOR

CONDITIONAL USE PERMIT

BURTON TOWNSHIP

BOARD OF ZONING APPEALS

Notice is hereby given that the Burton Township Board of Zoning Appeals will conduct a public hearing on an application identified as number 1457-19, for a conditional zoning certificate on the 24th day of October, 2019 at 7:00 p.m. at: The Burton Township Administration Building located at 14821 Rapids Road, Burton, OH 44021.

This application, submitted by Scott Hoar requests that: a renewal be granted for the purpose of storing equipment and one (1) sub-contractor construction equipment in out-buildings in addition to CLN Portable Restrooms. This request is made in an R-5 residential district for the lot located at 14211 Butternut Road, Burton, OH 44021.

Following the public hearing, any other business as it relates to the responsibility of the Board, will be discussed and action taken as needed.

Katie O’Neill, Secretary

Oct10, 2019

NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING

City of Chardon

The City of Chardon Planning Commission will hold a Public Hearing to consider the applications described below on Monday, October 21, 2019, at 6:30 PM. in Council Chambers at the Municipal Center, 111 Water St, Chardon OH 44024. The meeting is subject to adjournment or recess to a later date without another Notice of Public Hearing.

PC Case #19-216: Webb Ellinger (East Park Commons LLC) is requesting a Use Variance from Section 1139.03 of The City of Chardon Planning & Zoning Code in order to allow residential on the first floor of a building in the “C-2” Chardon Square Mixed Use District. The property is located on the south side of North Hambden St. approximately 200’ east of the intersection of East Park Street and North Hambden Street. The address of the property is 208 North Hambden Street, Chardon, OH 44024, with Parcel ID# 10-105250, owned by East Park Commons LLC.

Steven M. Yaney

Community Development Administrator

Oct10, 2019

NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING

City of Chardon

Residents of the City of Chardon shall take note that a public hearing shall be conducted by the Council of the City of Chardon in Council Chambers of the Chardon Municipal Center, 111 Water Street, Chardon, Ohio at 6:15 P.M. upon the 14th day of November, 2019.

Said hearing is to provide the public an opportunity to comment regarding a proposed Zoning Map Amendment to Parcel ID# 10-059000, 10-163700, and 10-108160. The proposed re-zoning is from “R-2” Low Density Residence to “PRD” Planned Residential District. In addition to the re-zoning the applicant, Sommers Development Group, is requesting Concept Plan approval for a Major Development under Section 1111 of the City of Chardon Codified Ordinances. The proposed plan is for a 31 unit detached single family home Planned Residential Development (subdivision). As part of the request the applicants are requesting three (3) waiver/variances pursuant so Codified Ordinance Section 1137.17 as follows: 1) Waiver/Variance to Schedule 1137.35 the 50’ setback requirement from a PRD boundary (Lot 31) and 2) Waiver/Variance from Schedule 1137.35 for the Minimum Front Setback of 40’ (Lot 1-7, 15, 16, 18, 19, 22, 23, 25, & 26) and 3) Waiver/Variance from Section 1137.31(f) for minimum width of open space of 50’ (Blocks B, C, & D). The properties are located on the north side of North Hamden St. approximately 180 ft. west of the intersection of North Hambden St. and Grant St. The addresses of the property is XXX North Hambden St., 433 North Hambden St., 461 North Hambden St., Chardon, OH 44024. The owners of the properties are as follows Parcel ID# 10-059000 (501 CW LLC), 10-163700 (501 CW LLC), and 10-108160 (Theodore & Melissa Russo). The total acreage of the proposed PRD is 20.78 acres.

A copy of the Zoning Map Amendment and Concept Plan is on file and available for public inspection in the office of the Clerk of Council of said City, weekdays between the hours of 8:00 a.m. and 5:00 p.m.

City of Chardon Planning Commission will take these matters under consideration at their October 21, 2019 regular meeting. The meeting will take place at 6:30 P.M. in Council Chambers, Chardon Municipal Center, 111 Water Street, Chardon OH 44024.

All interested persons are urged to attend.

AMY DAY

CLERK OF COUNCIL

Oct10, 2019

LEGAL NOTICE

ADVANCE NOTICE OF PUBLICATION OF DELINQUENT LAND TAX LIST

Pursuant to Ohio Revised Code, Section 5721.03, notice is hereby given of the forthcoming publication on November 14 and November 21, 2019 of the delinquent land tax list of Geauga County.

The delinquent tax list will contain the name of the most current owner and any unpaid tax, penalty, or assessments.

Delinquent taxes may be paid at the office of the Geauga County Treasurer, 211 Main Street, Chardon, OH, 44024, Monday through Friday, (except holidays) between the hours of 8:00 A.M. and 4:30 P.M. on or before Thursday, October 31, 2019 to avoid publication.

Taxpayers who are unable to make full payments may enter into a written agreement (installment plan) with the County Treasurer to pay unpaid taxes.

Beginning December 1, 2019 an interest charge will begin accruing on all unpaid taxes not having a written agreement with the Treasurer.

Charles E. Walder

Geauga County Auditor

Oct10-17, 2019

LEGAL NOTICE

ADVANCE NOTICE OF PUBLICATION OF

DELINQUENT VACANT LAND TAX LIST

Pursuant to Ohio Revised Code, Section 5721.03, notice is hereby given of the forthcoming publication on November 14 and November 21, 2019 of the delinquent vacant land tax list of Geauga County. Said list are lots and lands on which taxes have remained unpaid for two (2) years after being certified delinquent and that are now subject to foreclosure and forfeiture proceedings as provided in Ohio Revised Code, Section 5721.14 within twenty-eight (28) days after final publication of said list.

Delinquent taxes may be paid at the office of the Geauga County Treasurer, 211 Main Street, Chardon, OH, 44024, Monday through Friday, (except holidays) between the hours of 8:00 A.M. and 4:30 P.M. on or before Thursday, October 31, 2019 to avoid publication.

Taxpayers who are unable to make full payments may enter into a written agreement (installment plan) with the County Treasurer to pay unpaid taxes.

Said list will contain the names of the most current owner and any unpaid taxes, assessments, penalties, and interest.

Charles E. Walder

Geauga County Auditor

Oct10-17, 2019

LEGAL NOTICE

ADVANCE NOTICE OF PUBLICATION OF

DELINQUENT MANUFACTURED HOME TAX LIST

Pursuant to Ohio Revised Code, Section 4503.06, notice is hereby given of the forthcoming publication on November 14 and 21, 2019 of the delinquent manufactured home tax list of Geauga County.

Said list will contain the name of the most current owner and any unpaid tax and penalties.

Delinquent taxes may be paid at the office of the Geauga County Treasurer, 211 Main Street, Chardon, OH 44024, Monday through Friday (except holidays) between the hours of 8:00 a.m. and 4:30 p.m. on or before Thursday, October 31, 2019 to avoid publication.

Taxpayers who are unable to make full payments may enter into a written agreement (installment plan) with the County Treasurer to pay unpaid taxes.

Beginning December 1, 2019 an interest charge will begin accruing on all unpaid taxes not having a written agreement with the Treasurer.

Charles E. Walder

Geauga County Auditor

Two late-game goals were the difference, as Berkshire came from behind to defeat conference and neighborhood rival Cardinal 4-3 in boys soccer.

Trailing by a 3-2, junior Jay Wolfe scored two goals within two and a half minutes to tie the game and then give his team the lead.

“It was crazy and it was fun,” said Wolfe of the come from behind victory. “We had the momentum the whole game, and then they scored three unanswered, and then we scored two in the final minutes.”

Due to a red card against one of the Huskies’ players, the Badgers held an 11-10 player advantage with less than 10 minutes to play.

The red card provided Berkshire a spark and, up one man, and the Badgers took advantage of the situation.

With 4:01 to play, Wolfe punched in a loose ball off a corner kick to tie the game.

“It just got deflected around a couple of times and I tried to position myself in the best possible position to get a goal,” Wolfe said.

The Huskies, despite their best defensive efforts, could not hold off their archrivals.

Berkshire, with all the momentum, kept taking shots at goal.

Wolfe scored the game winner when he cleaned up a missed shot with 1:36 to play.

“This win means we can persevere through anything,” said Berkshire head coach Nick Fejedelem. “We’ve been getting better each day and fighting through adversity. We rose to the challenge.”

The Badgers actually jumped out to a 2-0 lead in the first half.

Senior Ben Wasson scored the game’s first goal with 26:10 to play and 2:53 before halftime; junior Ian Hotchkiss found the back of the net as well.

Berkshire controlled the pace of the game in the entire first half and into the second half.

The Badgers had multiple opportunities to increase their lead, but could not do it. Those missed chances nearly came back to haunt them.

A goal by Cardinal sophomore Trace Filla cut the lead to 2-1 with 21:45 to play. Nearly two minutes later, the Huskies caught another break, as a penalty was called inside the box and senior Eric Scott attempted a penalty kick.

The Cardinal senior came through and tied the game.

With just over nine minutes to go, Scott struck again, giving his team the lead 3-2.

At that point, the Huskies had all the momentum, until a Cardinal player was accessed a red card and Wolfe caught fire.

“He brings momentum, energy and good leadership,” said Fejedelem. “When Jay’s not on the field, we’re missing a huge piece offensively.”

Scott said he likes the Huskies’ spacing.

“We had good communication for the most part,” Scott said. “And good team unity. We wanted to stay together as a team and go over our plays together — spread out. And try to keep our passes up.”

For any team dealing with inexperience or outside influences, such as injury or lack of numbers, the opponents put on your schedule can either help the learning process and confidence levels or expose weaknesses that need to be addressed in the future.

Monday night, the Chardon Hilltoppers faced an opponent, the Geneva Eagles, who have a long tradition of success in sports. With a good focus being the best way to begin, the wheels began to wobble for Chardon in a hurry as the Eagles used big hitting and dominant defense to stop the Hilltopper hitting most of the night.

Geneva walked off with a 3-0 victory in non-conference action. Scores were 25-5, 25-13 and 25-15, and the first set score pretty much sums up what happened.

Unable to get any momentum going from the first serve of the night, Chardon saw a Hope Stanley kill tally the first point, and a Myla Rhodes slam to the back left corner opened an 11-4 edge, setting up the first point of emphasis in Geneva’s favor in a big way.

Up stepped Morgan Stoltz, who promptly served up four straight unreturnable serves before a Kaitlynn Minarik dink and another ace from Stoltz led to a Hilltopper timeout.

It only slowed the carnage. Two consecutive hits into the net, another Stanley slam, and another Stoltz ace led to a 21-4 lead, and with all the successes Geneva (14-3) had in getting the ball to the floor, the main focus of the Geneva game plan, defense, asserted itself the rest of the night.

“Things definitely begin for us with the serve,” Stoltz said. “If you’re getting good serves in that are hard to return, you will usually get better opportunities to put the ball down hard.

“For us, we always try to play good defense, too, to set up our offense. We felt last year that we could be a good team, and this year so far we’ve worked hard and expect to win every match when we come out on the floor. We have fun together, we work well as a team, and it’s worked out well.”

“We rely a lot on our defense,” Geneva coach Annah Haeseler said. “We live by saying ‘don’t let the ball fall.’ Games are played point by point, so if we’re executing our plan well, we think we can win every match we play. It doesn’t always work out that way, but we try.”

“Geneva’s a really good team, ” Chardon coach Alison Fisher said. “We kind of got off to a bad start, and basically, we just didn’t show up tonight. We made way too many mistakes, we had too much indecision at wrong times, and tonight we just didn’t make plays to build off of each other in positive ways.”

The Hilltoppers (5-10) finally got their first point out of service in the second set on a kill from Julia Jeckering, but at that point, it only cut the deficit to 5-10 for Chardon. The Eagles, behind the dominance at the nets in Jordan Vencill, Myla Rhodes, Stanley and what seemed like a tidal wave of hitters, and the back row work of Stoltz, Vencill and Becca Quirk, who didn’t allow shots from Chardon to reach the floor no matter where the location was, decided the issue.

After Vencill capped a five-point run with an ace herself to open a 12-3 lead in the third set, the Hilltoppers did finally make some good plays. Several shots found the floor, finally, and a Flora Frieden dink to the sideline staved off the match point.

Kaylee Caswell ended the long night for the Hilltoppers.

Chardon’s defense got to many Eagle slams, but Geneva’s serving and defense of their own put the Chardon girls into a hole.

Sophomore Claire Suszynski was in the middle of most of the action all night.

“We knew Geneva has a pretty good team,” she said after the match. “Something we need to work harder with is bringing the same good team we have in practice out to the floor for matches. We talk about that in practice and work hard to get better, but then we have too many mistakes like we did tonight.

“I talk with my sister, Katie, about that at home a lot, too. She’s a senior, knows the game well, and I only can just keep working to get better. We all need to just keep doing that.”

Talent and experience are tough to beat when combined properly. Geneva got it done Monday night, so now the Hilltoppers need to push harder to get the same results. Teams like Geneva offer a good example of where the Hilltoppers want to go.

DATE OF SALE: Thursday, October 31, 2019 — 10:00 A.M.

APPRAISAL                          MINIMUM  BID

Chester Township

Case No. 18-F-000727 — NewRez LLC, f/k/a New Penn Financial, LLC, d/b/a Shellpoint Mortgage Servicing vs. Unknown Heirs, Legatees, Devisees, Executors, Administrators and Assigns and their Spouses, if any of Jeanette R. Stopek (Deceased), et al., 12905 Cherry Lane (1.00 acres). PPN: 11-332800. Carrie L. Davis, atty.

$55,000.00                                $36,667.00

Newbury Township

Case No. 18-F-000879 — Christopher P. Hitchcock, Treasurer of Geauga County, Ohio vs. Daniel K. Redfern, et al., Vacant Land On Lake Shore Drive (0.11 acres). PPN: 23-116800. Kristen K. Rine, atty.

Set Minimum Bid: $8,555.04

Case No. 15-F-000216 — Christopher P. Hitchcock, Treasurer of Geauga County, Ohio vs. Karen Peterson, et al., 16076 Auburn Road (5.00 acres). PPN: 23-259020. Kristen K. Rine, atty.

Set Minimum Bid: $53,302.54

Sheriff’s land sales are held at 10:00 A.M. on Thursday or date scheduled at the GEAUGA COUNTY COMMON PLEAS COURT HOUSE, 100 SHORT COURT STREET, CHARDON, OHIO, 1st floor lobby by the doors of the Court House.

1. Opening bids start at 2/3rds of the appraisal value. If the property remains unsold after the first sale with a minimum bid of 2/3rds of the appraised value, a second sale will go forward on the next scheduled date with no minimum bid and the property will be sold to the highest bidder.

However, the purchaser at the second sale is still subject to the costs, allowances, and real property taxes.

2. Deposit due at the time of bid, (if you do not have the down payment on your person at the time of the bid, property will be re- bid). Balance due 30 days after confirmation. NO PERSONAL CHECKS accepted by Sheriff’s Office. Deposit by CASH, BANK CHECK, or CERTIFIED CHECK at time of bid. Checks can be made payable to the Geauga County Sheriff or to yourself and endorsed over to the Sheriff if you are the successful bidder. A judgment creditor is not required to make a sales deposit.

3. Deeds are issued after the confirmation of sale, when the balance of the purchase price is received by the Sheriff’s Office.

4. You cannot view the inside of the properties for sale. They are owned by the defendants, and the Sheriff’s Office does not have access to these properties. You buy “AS IS”.

5. Information about the lot size, number of rooms, year built, etc. can be obtained from the Auditor’s Office for a small fee using the permanent parcel number.

6. Federal tax liens are filed in the Geauga County Recorder’s Office, Courthouse Annex, 231 Main St, City of Chardon 1st floor, and case files are located in the Clerk of Courts Office, 3rd floor Courthouse 100 Short Court, City of Chardon (www.co.geauga.oh.us click on Departments), and can be researched in the respective offices.

7. Legal descriptions for delinquent tax land can also be found in the Recorder’s Office.

8. Property taxes will be prorated by the Geauga County Treasurer’s Office and paid out of the proceeds of the sale. Tax amount will include arrearages and a prorated estimate to the second sale date.

9. Delinquent tax properties are NOT appraised. They are sold for DELINQUENT TAXES, COSTS, AND PENALTIES. The property is offered for sale two (2) times. If it is not sold on the first sale date, it will be offered again at a later date.

10. The purchaser is responsible for a $50.00 deed fee to be paid to the Sheriff.

In the final Homecoming football game for the school district, a huge crowd of alumni, parents, students and supporters gathered at Black Knight Stadium Sept. 27 to celebrate everything Black Knights.

For some, it was sadness.

For others, cautiousness at moving on.

“I was proud of everybody,” said Mona Lieblich, the homecoming coordinator. “I think despite everything, they are fantastic kids. There were a lot of people there, and a group of past graduates.”

In its final version, the Black Knights’ first dance came from the football team, whose 44-34 win against the Carrick High School Raiders — a small school from the Pittsburgh area — gave the team a 3-2 winning record to start the week.

You normally won’t find a high school football event that takes three and a half hours to play, but with almost every kind of good and bad thing occurring, the Black Knights put on a fine show of football in beating Carrick.

A pregame gathering of alumni, several hundred strong, gathered to share memories before the game began. There were luminaries, former students and supporters of all ages.

Bill Ward, a newsman on local television circles who plied his trade in the Denzel Washington hit movie “Unstoppable” many years ago, was there renewing acquaintances. His voice came through clearly in person, just as it had so many years ago, when he was a basketball star at Newbury.

He and his wife, Mary, crossed paths with old friends every direction they turned.

“These are really emotional times here for all of us,” he remarked. “With the way things have gone in the community, though, such as they are, I think it’s just time for the next move to come to pass.”

Sheila Finnerty came with several old friends, one who has been part of my life on and off for nearly 50 years.

“I really hate to see the schools reaching this point,:” she said. “At the same time, when you don’t have the same number of kids as years ago, things change, and keeping things running isn’t easy.”

Her friend, Terri Malnar of Chardon, added that it was really wonderful to see so many gathering one final Homecoming time to support the current group of kids.

“It’s been so many years for so many in this community to get together,” she said. “It’s great to see, but kind of sad at the same time.”

Recent graduate Tom McKale looked at the celebration wistfully at times, while also renewing memories with friends still in the area.

“It might well be time for this to happen,” McKale commented. “At the same time, I think the way it has come about really stinks.

“But it’s done, and we have to move ahead for the community. I’ve had so many great times with the kids at this school, and nobody can take those memories away from any of us.”

Fan feelings for the last Homecoming were part of the good on the night. Another very good part was the parade before the game and crowning at halftime of court royalty.

Noah Arnold was named Prince, Liberty Mosher was named Princess, and the new, final King and Queen of Homecoming at Newbury High School were Monte Myer and Sage Neidbalson.

There also was a ton of good football played.

After both teams got nowhere on their first two possessions of the game, Carrick began a drive downfield, but John Tropf halted it in its tracks at the 30-yard line by simply muscling the ball carrier into giving up the ball.

After finally gaining control, Tropf took several Raiders with him for a short ride before casting them off and reaching the end zone for the game’s first score.

The joy of the moment didn’t last long.

E.J. Williams, one of several fine athletes on the Carrick roster, took the next kickoff at his own 10 yard line and dashed down the left side for a 90-yard touchdown. Conversions on both scores failed, but a tone was set.

Newbury has ridden the powerful legs of Noah Arnold all season, and he established domination again, joined by teammate Julian Cicchella. That dual threat in the running game was more than Carrick could deal with much of the night, but they tried.

Cicchella capped a 21-carry, 184-yard night with his first touchdown, from six yards out.

Arnold scored his first of three scores to establish a 21-6 lead in the second quarter.

By halftime, 14 penalties had been called, with 21 more to come, and the action turned to slow motion in a game that lasted longer than an NFL game by nearly an hour.

It wasn’t pretty, and consistency in the action was nonexistent, but the players still gave it their best, albeit ragged, effort.

It became huge as the penalties mounted up, to the tune of 293 yards total for both teams.

Arnold finished with 34 carries for 163 yards and three touchdowns. He scored his third touchdown early in the last quarter. Moore answered with another scoring pass from Ross, but in a move set up by one of two Jacob Orm big plays on defense, Evan Arnold scored on a perfectly executed end around from 15 yards out with 4:07 left to play. This would prove the go-ahead score.

Cicchella was in a different state of euphoria after the game. “I have been a lineman for a long time, so I never had a chance to run the ball like tonight,” he smiled. “I just want my team to win every time out, and this was a tough game, but we got it done.”

Coach Ryan Williams saw good and lots of bad along with it.

“I’m kind of disappointed in how we won tonight,” he said. “Way made too many mistakes. But we made plays when it counted. It was ugly, can’t deny that, but a win is a win anyway.

“I hate to see this being the final Homecoming game for these kids, but that’s the fact now and I’m really proud to have coached them.”

One of the most vocal forces against the merger with West Geauga has been Susan Arnold, and one could see the moment moving within her all night long, finally culminating in a huge smile among the tears at game’s end.

“I’ve loved working with my kids and all the Newbury administrators and families as long as I have,” she said among tears. “At the same time, that is the job of parents, to support the kids through any problems. We’ve had our share, especially lately, but I’m so proud of my children and our community for what we have built here at Newbury.”

With lots of good, bad and ugly, the memories of this final Homecoming for the Black Knights must be considered a positive in every way.

Rare is the child who doesn’t mess up in a game, no matter the game. When those occurrences happen, usually a silly mistake or oversight, kids love to claim a do-over for another quick try at it.

Last week at Lions Stadium, in a contest filled with mistakes and big plays all night, the Notre Dame-Cathedral Latin Lions finally got a do-over in their favor with 1:45 left in the game.

Freshman kicker Gianni Spetic was able to atone for a missed extra point kick by connecting on a 22-yard field goal with 1:45 left to play, giving the Lions a 16-14 lead.

However, Bruins kicker Samson Speeth returned the favor with no time left on the clock from 45 yards out to break the Homecoming crowd’s heart, again on a do-over after a failure, and Padua went home with a 17-16 North Coast League victory.

The winning score was set up in sickening fashion for Lions’ fans. After Spetic drilled his chip shot between the uprights with 1:45 left, Padua returned the kickoff to their own 34 yard line with 1:36 left to play. Quarterback Sam Ehrbar hit on six of eight passes to move the ball to the NDCL 34 with :04 left to play.

A pair of timeouts, one from each team, set up the Bruins for a 50-yard field goal attempt. Speeth’s attempt was about five yards short of the crossbar. But before the ball had been snapped, the Lions were called for a five-yard penalty for illegal substitution. Moving the ball five yards closer, Speeth got off a much better kick, sending the ball inside the right upright with no time left on the clock, and all but the Padua faithful in the stands on a beautiful night in Geauga County were stunned.

“It all comes down to being assignment sound,” NDCL coach Andrew Mooney said after talking with his team in the locker room. “It was a hard fought game all the way — defenses were sharp and hitting big-time — but we made too many mistakes, especially with some penalties throughout the game.

“Padua played well, but we were able to keep coming back on them. I just told Gianni that after that missed extra point, he came back to make a big field goal to give us a lead, and there will be many more chances for him to succeed in his career and life as long as he keeps working hard. That’s also a tough spot for a freshman kicker.”

Outsized by a considerable margin in the lines both ways, the Lions had problems keeping a consistent offense going throughout the game, but made big plays at critical times to eventually forge that tenuous lead at the very end.

The Bruins scored first, as Johnny Harris’ five-yard run with 3:31 left in the first period capped a short 54-yard drive with 2:50 left in the opening quarter.

After a Bruin punt was downed at the NDCL 26 with 1:40 before halftime, and with the Bruins’ running game almost totally stifled to that point, a Jimmy Mitchell run gained only three yards. With 1:05 to play, Jon Sharp dropped back, had good protection, and fired a long pass to David Martin Kosier that he caught in full stride about six inches beyond the defender with him. Kosier completed the 74-yard scoring play easily, with Spetic’s kick knotting the game at the half, 7-7.

With 4:50 gone in the third period, a Lion punt was downed at the Padua 29 yard line. Eight plays and 71 yards later, with a pair of pass interference penalties of dubious origin and an unsportsmanlike conduct penalty helping the drive, Alec Buehner broke the tie with a four-yard run.

A punt for a touchback opened the fourth quarter, and with the only real big run of the day for the Lions, a 65-yard scamper up the middle by Sharp, who saw Ethan Turner catch him from behind at the 20-yard line, ignited the offense enough to put home a one-yard plunge by Jack Robinson, narrowing the gap to 14-13 with 5:56 left to play.

Spetic sent the conversion wide left, but on the next NDCL (3-3) possession, starting from their own 28 yard line, a pair of completions paced the drive to inside the Bruin five-yard line.

Spetic nailed his field goal from the 22 with 1:45 to play, and NDCL fans were jubilant.

It didn’t last long.

Hitting on 19 of 34 passes in the game, Sam Ehrbar led his team to the Lions’ 34 with four ticks left on the clock. After a timeout, his 50-yard attempt fell far short of the crossbar, but the personnel infraction had been discovered while the ball was dead, giving Speeth the do-over of his young life.

He didn’t miss this time, and the Homecoming crowd left in silence.

With King Danny Frindt and Queen Emma Liberatore capping the halftime ceremonies amidst huge smiles from everybody, only the Padua fans and team were smiling as the mist began to settle on the stadium.

These teams were evenly matched. With the Bruins defense limiting the Lions to just 122 yards on the ground, and 65 of those on the Sharp run, the Lions operated with a running back by committee effort.

“Robinson has really run the ball well for us,” Mooney said. “He’s a very important player, though, at linebacker, and we don’t want to run him into the ground.”

That explained the ground game operations, and the huge front seven of Padua was ready for whatever it faced. Jimmy Mitchell had 14 carries, but with a whole den of Bruins waiting for him, with Robinson on the sidelines much of the night on offense, those 14 tries gained only 28 yards.

Sharp only netted 64 yards, so it’s easy to see how effective the Padua defense really was. But Sharp hit on six of 14 passes for 159 yards, and barely missed on a couple of the incompletions.

The Hilltoppers overcame a poor first quarter to defeat Brush 52-21 in Western Reserve Conference action.

Trailing 21-7 to start the second quarter, the Toppers scored the final 45 points of the game, en route to a running-clock ending.

“We weathered a storm in the first quarter,” said Chardon head coach Mitch Hewitt. “You warn kids all week long about their talent, but it’s hard when they see an 0-5 record.”

Unlike the past few weeks when turnovers limited the Topper offense, Chardon (4-2, 2-1 WRC) did not commit a turnover.

“We took care of the ball tonight,” said Hewitt. “We haven’t taken care of the ball in five weeks, and when you do that, drives become easier and everything works a little bit better.”

The Toppers also benefitted from the return of D.J. Bowman, who missed the last three games with a shoulder injury.

Bowman carried the ball seven times for 65 yards and one touchdown and provided the breakaway speed missing from the running game.

The return of Bowman coincided with a move to play three quarterbacks in the game, as Max Vujaklija split time with Joey Trivisonno and Nathaniel Sulka.

The combination eventually worked, as the Toppers outscored the Arcs 45-0 over the final three quarters.

“Our team never gives up,” said Vujaklija. “We’ve had some bumps in the road, but we keep striving because we have a chance to make it to where we want to go.”

Despite being down early, the Toppers did not panic.

“We just knew we had to compete and have heart,” said Trivisonno.

Them the defense made adjustments in coverage, and the offense began to click.

“Things are starting to come together,” said Vujaklija, who felt the offense played more physical in the final three quarters and wore down the Arcs.

This win sets up a big showdown with Geauga County rival Kenston this Friday in Chardon.

Last year, Chardon defeated Kenston on a last-second play to give the Bombers their only loss during their state championship run.

Entering the week seven matchup, Kenston remains undefeated (6-0, 3-0 WRC) and will likely be looking for revenge.

“We beat them last year and we need to do it again,” said Trivisonno. “They are still the state champions.”

According to joeeitel.com, Kenston currently sits in the fourth spot in division three, region 9. Chardon is 12th. The top eight teams making the playoffs.

The Kenston football team faced adversity for the first time this season and came out on top.

The Bombers used a dominant second half, led by their defense, to defeat Willoughby South, 37-21, Friday night at Bomber Stadium.

The Bombers trailed, 21-14, at halftime, but outscored the Rebels 23-0 in the second half.

The victory lifts Kenston to 6-0 and 3-0 in the Western Reserve Conference; the Rebels dropped to 4-2, 1-2.

Kenston coach Jeff Grubich talked about the Bombers’ first big test of the season.

“This was tough,” Grubich said. “We haven’t been in a four-quarter game all year. I like that we got a little battle tested.”

The Bombers trailed, 21-14, at halftime, but took the ball to start the second half. Then they methodically marched down field and, on fourth-and-5 from the Rebel 7, Jon Tomcufcik hit Jonathan Abbarno on a quick slant for a 7-yard touchdown to tie the game at 21-21 with 8:02 left in the third quarter.

“That was a heck of a play,” Grubich said. “Fourth down. Man coverage. That was a big-time throw. That was a back-breaker.”

It was the beginning of a huge second half for Tomcufcik, who was 11-for-15 passing for 148 yards with three touchdowns and no interceptions in the second half. He finished 15-of-22 passing for 191 yards to go along with nine rushes for 53 yards.

However, the real turning point came at the start of the fourth quarter. Tomcufcik placed a punt perfectly down on the Rebel 1. On the next play, the Bomber defense overwhelmed the South offensive line to sack Justin Grosel for a safety and a 23-21 lead with 11:45 left in the game.

Grosel struggled against the fierce Kenston pass rush for most of the game as he finished 8-for-21 passing for just 109 yards with one touchdown. He did not complete a pass in the second half until the Rebels’ final possession, when the game was out of reach.

Grosel also rushed nine times for 27 yards. The Bombers recorded four sacks of Grosel.

“I think we have a pretty good defensive line,” Grubich said. “That’s the strength of our defense. We did a good job of putting on pressure.”

Grubich went on to say he felt the sacks and pressure by the Bomber defensive line was the “nail in the coffin.”

The Bombers took over after the free kick on the South 32. Just seven plays later, Tomcufcik hit J.P. Germano with a 13-yard touchdown pass for a 30-21 lead with 7:04 left to play. That put the Bombers in great shape.

Kenston put the game away when Tomcufcik hit Tyler Mintz with a 22-yard touchdown pass with 1:01 left to play for the final margin.

Mintz had a big game as he caught eight passes for 122 yards. He had six catches for 97 yards in the second half.

Mintz was asked about drawing extra coverage from opposing defenses.

“If they do, then I’m doing my job,” Mintz said. “That helps the other guys. We have three other guys we can throw to.”

Mintz also said he wasn’t surprised by how tough the Rebels played.

“We knew it was going to be a hard game from the start,” Mintz said. “They have playmakers everywhere. But we had confidence in our offense the whole game, and the defense really showed up in the second half.”

In the first half, the Bombers suffered their first deficit since the first quarter of last season’s Division III state championship game as the Rebels went on their first of two 90-plus yard touchdown drives.

The Rebels moved 92 yards in 11 plays on their second possession of the game capped by a 36-yard touchdown run by Ira Sampson for a 7-0 lead with 5:04 left in the first quarter.

Sampson led all rushers with 122 yards on just 14 attempts.

However, the deficit was very short-lived, as Kenston’s Tyler Kestranek returned the ensuring kickoff 79 yards for a touchdown to tie the game just 13 seconds later. He credited his teammates for creating his running lane for the touchdown return.

“There was amazing blocking,” Kestranek said. “They held their blocks and I went to the right.”

Kestranek also had a big game on defense, nearly intercepting two passes.

“On defense, we’re all about team,” Kestranek said. “We’re all doing our best. It’s not about one person.”

When asked about the Bomber defensive line, Kestranek said: “Those are hogs. They work so hard every day. They make my job easier.”

The Cardinal Huskies have had a tough early schedule in the team’s 2-4 starting losing to Garfield (6-0), Crestwood (5-1), Berkshire (4-2) and Kirtland (6-0).

A tough game against Kirtland on Homecoming night was to be expected but the 49-0 halftime deficit was shocking to those in attendance. The Hornets went on to win 56-0.

Senior OLB Seth Peters was crowned Homecoming King at the half, while senior classmate Maddie Schultz was crowned Homecoming Queen.

Peters is also a member of Cardinal’s varsity track and field team and basketball team, while Schultz takes college credits at Lakeland Community College and sings in the school’s choir, Cardinaires, while taking part in the fall plays and spring musical.

Junior QB Joey Soltis was 10-of-25-passes while throwing for 77 yards. He also led the Huskies in rushing with 16 yards.

But the schedule will be kinder to Cardinal over the last four weeks with games against Beachwood (5-1), Grand Valley (0-6), Brooklyn (2-4) and Wickliffe (3-3).

Beachwood’s record is deceiving because they have beaten only team — Independence (4-2) — with a winning record.

Missing from Brag Letter

I am writing to voice my opinion about the recent letter bragging about the Juvenile Court. Are people in this county aware that there is a new federal law regarding ensuring dependent children contact with family? I have been writing in about it for some time. It is called the Family First Prevention Services Act. Moving toward compliance with the new federal law cannot be credited to our local or state agencies. In fact, Ohio is actively working to put off the changes, changes that will greatly benefit children.

What was missing from that brag-letter is the fact that family placement of dependent children and/or prevention of removal at all is the focus of the new federal law. How many children in Geauga County have been needlessly placed in the foster system? How many children are in congregate care who don’t need to be? How many family members who complain are being punished through the children? How many have been threatened with jail if they speak out against the treatment of those children? How many children are being misdiagnosed with mental disorders and drugged?

Cuyahoga County indicates where their dependent children are right on their website. Why not Geauga?

In my opinion, there should be an independent investigation into how the Geauga County Juvenile Court and Children’s Services have handled individual cases through the examination of dockets and transcripts, by an independent body. And the results should be measured by outcome. We demanded outcome-based education years ago. How about outcome-based children’s systems? The Ohio Disciplinary Counsel does not investigate such things.

Citizens should demand accountability of these systems that, in fact, have almost zero independent oversight. We cannot take the word of government agencies. No oversight always leads to the abuse of power. Always.

Robin Neff
Chardon

Impact a Generation: YES on Issue 21

I’m asking for your support of Issue 21 on Nov 5. Passage of this bond issue will provide for the replacement of our 68-year-old high school — a facility that is woefully inadequate for the youth in our community in so many ways. It has outdated classrooms, technology, restrooms — you name it.

I graduated in 1965 and it’s the same school. Nothing has changed. How many of you have a house or business that you’ve been in for 55 years and not made major improvements?

My oldest granddaughter plays on a variety of sports teams. I attend all their games and have been to numerous schools in the surrounding areas over the last eight years. Many of these communities have new, spacious, student-friendly facilities with all the amenities.

When I return back to Chardon High School for home games, I marvel that so many other cities can build new non-state-funded schools (Kenston, Chagrin Falls, Willoughby-Eastlake, Painesville-Riverside and the list goes on). Why not Chardon? What’s different about our voters? We have lower unemployment than most and our tax rates are comparable to surrounding school districts. Could it be that we have taken for granted one of the most important institutions given to us to steward?

After 58 years of living in Chardon, I still believe it to be the finest small city in Ohio — a family-friendly community, a great place to raise our children. So why can’t we as voters support these students and their families?

As a business man, I’ve learned over the years that the greatest use of my life is to spend it on something and someone that will outlast me. I’ve had the opportunity to observe successful businessmen and many possess this same perspective. I’ve found that gratitude creates a vision for tomorrow and that greatness is not deposited in us to keep, but rather should flow through us into others.

For me, there are three keys to abundant living: caring about others, daring for others and sharing for others. I’ve always felt you’d have everything you want in life if you help others get what they need. In other words, “We make a living by what we get, but we make a life by what we give.”

We have an opportunity to provide the next generation with a valuable and enriching environment in which to grow and learn. They can’t vote but we can. We can impact a generation and carry forward a high school that will last for decades.

We owe it, not only to them, but to the community to do the right thing. Please join me in voting YES to Issue 21.

Keith J. Landies
City of Chardon

Why is Metzenbaum Renewal Levy Continuing

In response to Suzanne Kral’s letter to the editor last week, I would like to point out there are several things that go into setting the term of a renewal levy. I would also like to point out that the renewal of the Metzenbaum levy does not increase taxes.

Our primary mission is to meet the needs of the almost 1,000 clients that we serve. Our board is constantly balancing the tension between being fiscally responsible to the taxpayer while meeting the needs of individuals with developmental disabilities.

Why choose a continuing rather than a limited term levy? We did it to avoid asking for new money in 2023.

In March, when we were decided the term of the levy, our financial forecast showed us being stable into 2023. If we renewed the levy for three years, we would have needed to renew the levy in 2023. In 2023, our financial balance would be low enough that we would have had to increase the levy to cover another five years.

By asking for a continuing term on our renewal, we hope to push the request for additional funds out until 2025 or beyond. We don’t want to ask the voters for new taxes until it is absolutely needed.

We faced this same situation in 2008 when we renewed that levy to a continuing levy. We promised that we wouldn’t come back until at least 2011, but we were able to stretch that time out to 2015. We pushed the levy from a five-year coverage into an 11-year coverage.

Eventually, inflation caught up with the revenue and used up the levy balance. In 2015, we asked for the new 1-mill levy, which now needs to be renewed.

If you have any further questions or want more information, please feel free to call me at (440) 729-9406.

Don Rice, Superintendent
Geauga County Board of Developmental Disabilities

Issue 21: If Not Now, When?

Dear Chardon Parents and Voters,

Vote ‘Yes’ for the Chardon Schools’ Bond Issue 21.

A ‘Yes’ vote means we are declaring:

Yes to the future hopes of Chardon’s students.

Yes to our students’ future lives and careers.

Yes to a new, combined high school/middle school building.

Yes to the technology that modern education requires.

Yes and welcome to future Chardon City residents and businesses.

Yes to the sustained hopes of Chardon citizens for the past 25 years.

And, finally, Yes to all those citizens and voters in the past who voted ‘Yes’ to support our education.

A vote “Yes’ on Bond Issue 21 is a gift to our students and ourselves.

We know our school buildings are outdated. Right now we need to update our outdated educational infrastructure.

If not now, when?

Sheldon Firem
Hambden Township

Re-Elect Justin Madden

I have served as a Russell Township Trustee for many years and have worked with a number of different fellow trustees. I welcome the chance to support the re-election of Justin Madden this November.

Justin has been a pleasure to work with. He is open to all suggestions, does his homework on any issue before the board, is stern when needed and firm in his belief that Russell Township should continue as a restricted commercial, premier residential and green community.

As our current chairman of the board, Justin runs an efficient meeting, thoroughly covering the agenda items and allowing time for public comment at each meeting.

As an attorney, his legal knowledge is consistently astute, knowing when the board needs to reach out for legal assistance. He makes himself available when needed, even during the day, keeping the welfare of the township a high priority in his life.

Township government is the simplest form of government in the country; it is non-partisan, relies on the Ohio Revised Code for specific township law and is able to control the direction of growth by its zoning regulations.

Justin has fought and defended our zoning to keep Russell a unique place to live, where residents can enjoy their property. He has consistently supported our excellent safety forces to provide the ability to stay current and employ the best personnel around. His abilities with budget management in the face of decreased state funding, the plan for on-going township road maintenance and government grant acquisition have all been proven.

Keeping Russell Green has also taken on an additional meaning, with the conversion to all LED lighting in all township properties and our continually improving Recycling Center.

Russell Township is a great community and the need for consistency in defending the lifestyle our residents have chosen is paramount.

A vote for Justin Madden on Nov. 5 will assure that the legacy lives on.

Gary G. Gabram, Trustee
Russell Township

Retain Chester Trustees, Fiscal Officer

Attention Chester Residents:

We recently received a political flyer from Patricia Jarett who is running for Fiscal Officer of

Chester Township. Ms. Jarett stated that, if elected, she would “within 6 months convert

the current Chester Township accounting system to the UAN software created by the State

of Ohio Auditor.”

FACT: Chester Township has been successfully using the UAN software since 2005.

She also stated the she would “provide Trustees with up- to- date financial reports.”

FACT: Trustees and Department Heads are provided with financial reports monthly and/or upon

request.

Next, she states “to avoid any further penalties, pay federal and state mandated payroll obligations timely.”

FACT: Withheld payroll taxes are paid on a timely basis, specifically to avoid penalties.

Perhaps Ms. Jarrett should do her homework before making statements about procedures of

which she is not aware.

We believe we have in place a Board of Trustees and Fiscal Officer who are doing their jobs and

making decisions that show they care about the future and well-being of Chester Township.

We recommend a vote to retain Trustees Kolk and Radtke, and Fiscal Officer Craig Richter.

Gayle and Linda Gifford
Chester Township

Keep Quigley

I have a “Glen Quigley for Trustee” sign in my yard. I’ve lived in Newbury over 25 years and am thankful to have a trustee like him in office and encourage voters to keep him.

Glen has not only made Newbury his home for over 40 years, he knows why you live here. He understands firsthand what residents want, because he wants it, too. He protects our home values with solid zoning to keep aesthetics a top priority. Glen’s has experience, something we need to retain.

In the past he has championed many issues for the residents. I hope everyone remembers the way he fought hard to keep the asphalt plant out of Newbury, protecting those homes which could have been impacted negatively. Thanks to Glen, we have a park that honors our veterans, something very important to him, and should be to us all.

He understands government having been our trustee, but also Geauga County Recorder, Newbury Board of Zoning Appeals, Newbury Volunteer Fire Department Trustee & Department Officer. He knows the Sunshine Laws, Ohio Revised Code and researches all agenda items to be able to make informed decision that impact us.

It’s not enough to just show up at meetings, sit there and vote. Glen is far too often the voice of reason at these meetings and, lately, they have been volatile at times. He keeps a clear head and is thoughtful in his words and action — even when publicly threatened on social media.

Glen does far more than show up; he pours his heart and soul into his position as trustee. The takes the extra time to understand what is going on, researches grants, learns about the history of Newbury and Geauga County, always mindful of his “home.”

Keep Glen, he knows why you live here.

Kate Musick
Newbury Township

Financially Responsible Choice

I strongly support Issue 21 to build a new school for grades 6-12 in Chardon because I believe it is the proactive, financially responsible choice — one that will only strengthen our community.

A Chardon Schools education is top-notch, but our facilities are actually working against our staff and students. The classrooms don’t provide a learning environment that supports modern teaching best practices. The electrical systems can’t handle the widespread use of the latest technologies. Leaky roofs, bad plumbing and drafty or sweltering classrooms are the norm. Fire and security systems aren’t up to date. And, worst of all, each year the district is forced to divert funds from educational opportunities and resources to band-aid fixes for these outdated, energy-inefficient facilities that no longer meet the state’s minimum standards.

It is fiscally irresponsible to keep pouring money into these 60-plus-year-old buildings. The costs to maintain minimum standards in these buildings are nearly as much as the costs to build new ones — and those maintenance costs are only going to grow over time. That’s not my opinion; that’s the conclusion of the State of Ohio’s assessment of Chardon Schools.

Voting against Issue 21 is short-sighted and only delaying the inevitable, while wasting millions of dollars in the process.

A strong school system is a cornerstone to a strong, vibrant community. That’s why so many of us have decided to raise our families here. A new school for grades 6-12 in Chardon will attract new families to our area, increase our property values and ultimately help our community to thrive in ways that benefit every single resident.

Please join me on Nov. 5 in voting YES for Issue 21.

Michelle Fisher
Munson Township

Geauga Parks: Treasure Worth Investing In

Geauga County is blessed to have the exceptional Geauga Park District. Having lived in three counties in Northeast Ohio, plus California and Florida, I can attest to the fact that the Geauga Parks are by far superior to any others I’ve experienced.

There is no better way to learn about our land, solar system, waterways and creatures big and small than the hands-on programs that are offered almost daily in the 25 managed parks.

As a result, my 8-year-old granddaughter can name any bird that comes to our feeders, identify all the local butterflies and many of the insects, plus point out the visible planets and constellations. We hike, kayak, fish and even camp at the parks.

There is no better way to gain appreciation for our environment and to pass on to the next generation the need to preserve and protect it. We learn and create memories together that will be forever remembered.

Geauga Parks are a treasure worth investing in and the cost is just a few pennies a day. I encourage all Geauga voters to vote YES on the Geauga Park District levy, ballot issue 23 on Nov. 5.

Linda J. O’Brien
Russell Township

Claypool: A Statesman, Not a Politician

This letter is in support of Skip Claypool who is a candidate for Chester Township Trustee in the upcoming Nov. 5 election.

Chester Township resident Skip Claypool is a family man, a proud American and a veteran. He is a strong defender of the U.S. Constitution and not only does he talk the talk, he walks the walk.

Skip is a hard worker. He researches issues, makes sound decisions and wants the best for our community. He will look out for your tax dollars and will not bend to political pressure.

He makes tough decisions that are in the best interest of the community. He is not a politician, but a statesman.

He is financially conservative and will do everything within his power to prevent wasteful spending. I sincerely believe Skip Claypool deserves your vote on Nov. 5 for Chester Trustee.

Dal Lanese
Chester Township

Issue 21: The True Cost

I attended the Chardon High School walk-through and Q&A. I was told the cost was $15.50 per $100,000 on the true evaluation of your property. They failed to mention that it is per month not year. Who’s paying property taxes by the month?

The truth: It will cost you $186 per year for every $100,000 on the true valuation of your property, A $300,000 property = $558 additional taxes for 37 years for “phase one,” generating $77 million. Painesville built two new schools for $38 million.

Those in favor lament the horrid deterioration of the school and I was tempted to wear my hardhat to the walk-through. I found the school to be dated, not deteriorated — a shame to tear it down.

Many of those on fixed incomes would need to sell their homes since valuations have skyrocketed and this new tax burden would be the proverbial straw. The school board looks at this as just some collateral damage that their consciences easily overlook.

Truth is, the new facilities don’t improve overall school student performance, only the lives of the staff.

Joe Novak
Hambden Township

Support Future Generations of Chardon Schools

Residents of the Chardon Local School District:

We all must support our schools and the educational future of all of our children. “Thank You” for your YES vote on Issue 21. The students and staff of Chardon Schools and our wonderful community deserve the very best we can give them. It is long overdue.

Back in the day, we were the benefactors of the community supporting our schools and providing the best facilities for our education. We both experienced new buildings and classrooms, and were extremely fortunate.

All students in the Chardon school district, whether they attend the public schools, parochial schools, special education classes or schools out of the district, are transported by the

Chardon Schools Transportation Department.

Please do not let down the future generations of Chardon Schools.

Dr. Walter W. Sargent, Class of 1942
Joyce Bican Hummel Sargent, Class of 1957
City of Chardon

Re-Elect South Russell Mayor Bill Koons

In 2013, eight communities formed a Council of Governments (COG) to create a regional dispatch agency, Chagrin Valley Dispatch (CVD). Seven mayors from Chagrin Valley communities and one trustee from Chagrin Falls Township worked together to create policies, recruit new members and help guide the growth of this agency.

Mayor Bill Koons was one of the seven mayors on this council. The undersigned elected officials appreciated working with him and regarded him as a valuable asset to our team. He is honest, reliable and incredibly hard-working.

Furthermore, Mayor Koons is an impressive problem solver who is always able to address complex issues strategically and confidently. He immediately understood and supported the mission of providing our residents with excellent safety services and, at the same time, saving taxpayer dollars. He worked collaboratively and respectfully to expand and improve dispatch services.

When we started in 2013, CVD served eight communities, had a budget of $745,000, eight full-time employees and one facility. CVD now serves 31 communities, has a budget of $11,921,456 and employs 120 people at three different facilities. Nick DiCicco spearheaded this growth and was the driving force behind it. However, members of the COG, including Mayor Koons, played a significant role in this success.

We believe Mayor Koons is a talented manager and a creative leader. He is dedicated, informed and experienced. We urge you to vote to reelect Mayor Koons in November.

 Kathy Mulcahy, Orange Village Mayor
Karen Schneider, Gates Mills Mayor
Eddy Kraus, Solon Mayor
Susan Renda, Moreland Hills Mayor
Leonard A. Spremulli, Village of Bentleyville Mayor
John Finley, Chagrin Falls Township Trustee
Benjamin I. Holbert III, Village of Woodmere

Supporting Chardon Schools

I have lived in the Chardon area for 28 years. My children were raised here and attended the Chardon Local Schools. Though I do not currently have children in the schools, I support Issue 21 and the plan to build a new combined High and Middle School.

The State has assessed our buildings. They concluded it was not cost-effective to renovate the buildings but better to replace. Over the years the buildings have seen repairs and maintenance. All this comes from our permanent improvement fund.

But the demands on this fund have grown due to reductions in state funding for items such as buses. The fund could never cover the costs of extensive renovation nor new buildings.

The way we educate students has changed a lot over the years. So, it makes sense that the places where they learn should change as well. Continuing to create buildings with inflexible classroom spaces for lectures does not make sense. We need to create a space where teachers can work with our students, and up-to-date teaching methods can be more effective.

Please vote FOR Issue 21 on or before Nov. 5.

Guy Wilson
Hambden Township

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 440-285-2015 or email editor@geaugamapleleaf.com no later than Monday noon. These meeting notices are NOT legal notices. 

Geauga County: Oct. 10, 7:30 a.m. – SWCD Supervisors, The Patterson Center, 14269 Claridon-Troy Road, Burton, 2:30 p.m. – SWMD Board, at Warren district officer, 6:30 p.m. – Fair Board, annual meeting, at Mary Yoder’s Amish Kitchen; Oct. 15, 4 p.m. – Local Emergency Planning Committee, 12518 Merritt Road, Munson, 4 p.m. – Geauga Library Trustees, at Geauga West Library; Oct. 17, 9 a.m., Board of County Commissioners. All county commissioners meetings are held at 470 Center St., Bldg. 4, Chardon, unless otherwise noted.

Auburn Township: Oct. 10, 7:30 p.m., Zoning Commission. All meetings are held at the Administration Building, 11010 Washington St., unless otherwise indicated.

Bainbridge Township: Oct. 14, 7 p.m., Board of Trustees; Oct. 17, 7 p.m., Board of Zoning Appeals. All meetings are held at Town Hall, 17826 Chillicothe Road, unless noted.

Burton Village: Oct. 15, 7 p.m., Village Council; Oct. 17, 7 p.m., Burton Public Library Trustees. All meetings are held at 14588 W. Park St., 2nd Floor, unless otherwise noted.

Chardon City: Oct. 10, 6:30 p.m., City Council. All meetings are held at Municipal Center, 111 Water St., unless otherwise noted.

Chardon Township: Oct. 7, 7 p.m., Zoning Commission; Oct. 16, 7 p.m., Board of Trustees. All meetings are held at Township Hall, 9949 Mentor Road, unless otherwise noted.

Chester Township: Oct. 10, 6 p.m., Board of Trustees; Oct. 16, 7 p.m., Zoning Commission. All meetings are held at the Township Hall, 12701 Chillicothe Road, unless otherwise noted.

Hambden Township: Oct. 16, 6:30 p.m., Board of Trustees. All meetings are held at the Town Hall, 13887 GAR Highway, unless otherwise noted.

Huntsburg Township: Oct. 15, 7 p.m., Board of Trustees. All meetings held at the Town Hall, 16534 Mayfield Road.

Middlefield Village: Oct. 10, 5 p.m. – Parks & Recreation, 5:30 p.m. – Finance Committee, 6:30 p.m. – Public Safety, 7 p.m. – Village Council. All meetings are at the Municipal Center, 14860 N. State Ave.

Montville Township: Oct. 15, 7 p.m., Board of Trustees. All meetings held at the Montville Community Center, 9755 Madison Road, unless noted.

Munson Township: Oct. 10, 7 p.m., Zoning Commission; Oct. 14, 6:15 p.m., Parks & Recreation Board; Oct. 17, 6:30 p.m., Board of Zoning Appeals. All meetings are held at Township Hall, 12210 Auburn Road, unless otherwise noted.

Newbury Township: Oct. 16, 7 p.m., Board of Trustees. All meetings are held at the Town Hall, 14899 Auburn Road. (Note: A majority of Newbury Township Trustees may be at each township board or committee meeting, but no decision requiring township trustees approval will be considered.)

 Parkman Township: Oct. 15, 7 p.m., Board of Trustees. All meetings are held at the Community House, 16295 Main Market Road, unless otherwise noted.

Russell Township: Oct. 16, 5:30 p.m., Board of Trustees. Meetings are held at the Fire-Rescue Station, 14810 Chillicothe Road, unless otherwise noted.

South Russell Village: Oct. 14, 7 p.m., Village Council. All meetings are held at Village Hall, 5205 Chillicothe Road, unless otherwise noted.

Thompson Township: Oct. 16, 7 p.m., Board of Trustees. All trustees meetings are held at Ledge Park Building, 16713 Thompson Road.

Troy Township: Oct. 15, 7 p.m., Board of Trustees. All meetings are held at Troy Community Center, 13950 Main Market Road, unless noted.

Berkshire BOE: Oct. 14, 6 p.m., regular meeting. All meetings held at BOE offices, 14259 Claridon-Troy Road, Burton, unless otherwise noted.

West Geauga BOE: Oct. 14, 7 p.m., regular meeting, BOE Community Room, 8615 Cedar Road.

Following is a list of real estate transfers for the week ending Sept. 27, 2019, provided as a public service by the Geauga County Auditor’s Office. Transfers may involve the sale of land only.

AUBURN TOWNSHIP

Kenneth D. and Kimberly M. Leonardi, 11991 Stafford Road, to Michael S. and Kathleen B. Shonk, $335,000. (2.13 acres)

Peggy B. Secura, 10000 Edward Lane, to Flying Cages II LLC, $605,000. (25.33 acres)

Valleybrook Estate Himes LLC, Regal Place (s/l 3), to Blake N. Schultz, $28,100. (3.01 acres)

John J. Mullen Jr., 11165 Stafford Road, to Sharon M. Matonis and David Mangano, $65,000. (2.21 acres)
Michael A. and Victoria L. Cash, 11425 Taylor May Road, to Daniel and Liana Baker, $475,000. (6.02 acres)

Lynlee Altman, 11935 LaDue Trail, to Eric D. and Victoria A. Clason, $845,000. (3.00 acres)

BAINBRIDGE TOWNSHIP

Brenda A. Pokorny (trustee), 17222 Bittersweet Trail, to John R. and Melissa M. Montgomery, $460,000. (3.06 acres)

Julia H. Newton (trustee), 8818 Carnes Road, to Rhonda J. Morris, $237,000. (1.54 acres)

Thomas R. and Susan C. Erickson, 16585 Wren Road (Unit 4B), to Kenneth C. and Donna B. Simonitis, $160,000. (0.00 acres)

Darlene A. and Todd J. Walker, 17360 Tall Tree Trail, to Mark and Brenda Czaja, $688,000. (0.80 acres)

BURTON TOWNSHIP

U.S. National Bank Association (trustee), 16212 Paulette Drive, to Biagio R. Conti Jr., $25,200. (0.32 acres)

BURTON VILLAGE

Jeffrey A. and Julie A. Coleman, 14741 Evergreen Drive, to Kathleen Miller, $172,000. (0.29 acres)

CHARDON CITY

Kenneth A. Campbell, 122 Court St., to Western Reserve Investments LLC, $77,500. (0.50 acres)

Eugene E. and Joan P. Roth, 515 Brandon Court (Unit 8 VSR), to James S. II and Jill R. Milligan, $187,500. (0.00 acres)

CHARDON TOWNSHIP

Ludwig F. Geis, Chardon Road, to Jennifer S. Mahan, $249,900. (1.65 acres)

CHESTER TOWNSHIP

Beth Klein, 13046 Dorothy Road, to Michael N. Corrigan and Ashley M. Crow, $172,900. (1.35 acres)

Wallace H. and Elaine L. Sonnie, 9321 Winchester Valley, to Kenneth D. and Kimberly M. Leonardi, $335,000. (5.03 acres)

CLARIDON TOWNSHIP

Linda Ann Petkosek (trustee), Hall Road, to Oscar Em LLC, $174,300. (17.43 acres)

HUNTSBURG TOWNSHIP

David P. Sr., Rose S. and David P. Jr. Hudock, 12445 Hammock Lake Drive, to Jeremy and Jennifer L. Davis, $309,900. (4.00 acres)

MIDDLEFIELD TOWNSHIP

Joni J. and Kathryn E. Yoder (trustees), 16897 Kinsman Road, to Daniel and Julie Johnson, $265,000. (2.61 acres)

Dan R. and Betty M. Burkholder, 17432 Nauvoo Road, to David and Betty Miller, $150,000. (0.34 acres)

MIDDLEFIELD VILLAGE

Phillip D. Katz, 14880 Lantern Court, to Julene R. Thorp, $155,000. (0.33 acres)

George R. and Kathleen G. Blair (TOD), 16162 E. High St., to Kenneth D. and Heather R. Buresch, $128,500. (0.37 acres)

Donald E. and Sandra L. Koscelnik, 14825 Orchard Ave., to John E. and Katherine Burkholder, $262,000. (0.87 acres)

MONTVILLE TOWNSHIP

Patricia B. and John G. Murchie, $10545 Kile Road, to Tracy E. and Mark A. Vance, $325,000. (29.97 acres)

MUNSON TOWNSHIP

Vicki R. Taylor and Richard C. Annis Hilliard, 11686 Basswood Road, to Donald S. Landies, $120,000. (0.25 acres)

Russell K. Lowe, 12625 Mill View Lane, to The Huntington National Bank, $175,000. (5.69 acres)

Christopher A. Burke, 12684 Auburn Road, to Denise L. Watson and Brandon Samuel Soor, $154,500. (1.50 acres)

Benjamin W. and Ann E. Royle, 11805 Tall Pines Drive, to Lu Ann Lynn DeJulius, $365,000. (2.56 acres)

NEWBURY TOWNSHIP

Susan W. Rose, Lake Shore Dreive (s/l 182-183), to Holly Sebrell, $75,000. (0.11 acres)

RUSSELL TOWNSHIP

County Line Crossing LLC, County Line Road, to Charles V. and Deborah A. Marotta (co-trustees), $335,000. (7.87 acres)

Teresa Ignagni Price, 8442 Ridgewood Lane, to E. Terry Miller and Dominque Dube, $230,000. (1.50 acres)

Paul F. and Rose Marie Fantelli, 8342 Martingale Lane, to Renee F. and George H. Jones III, $340,000. (1.03 acres)

SOUTH RUSSELL VILLAGE

Christopher and Erin E. Hagen, 30 Woodside Road, to Kimberly E. and Corey R. Hoynacke, $364,000. (1.05 acres)

Scott and Marabeth Izzo (TOD), 99 Countryside Drive, to Lindsay A. Laufik and Sean Patrick Leibin, $372,500. (0.75 acres)

Donald T. Jr. and Bonnie D. Andre (trustees), 820 Sun Ridge Lane, to Nathan and Mary Fischer, $320,000. (1.52 acres)

Michael F. Esposito (trustee), 115 Southwyck Drive, to David E. and Samantha E. Evers, $339,900. (0.75 acres)

THOMPSON TOWNSHIP

Floyd T. Wickizer, 15470 Thompson Road, to Aimee Kangas, $65,000. (0.76 acres)