Chesterland News 4-22-2026

Borcziak Tallies Hat Trick

In Setback to Bengals

By AlAn KornspAn sports@KArlovecmediA com

In the sport of lacrosse, the size of the roster can often be a limiting factor.

In fact, because of the fast pace of play and continued movement throughout, it can be difficult for a lacrosse team with small numbers to find the necessary energy to compete with teams with more depth as the game progresses into the final quarter.

For the West Geauga Wolverines Boys Lacrosse Team who hosted the Benedictine Bengals on April 18 at Howell Field, a lack

of depth due to injuries loomed large in a 10-7 late fourth quarter setback.

Wolverines Head Boys Lacrosse Coach, James Weir, explained the difficulty in competing with a small roster.

“We were playing against numbers,” Coach Weir said. “They had over 20 players, we only had 14.

So we ran out of a little bit of gas during the fourth quarter.”

He continued: “It's difficult when you're going up against a team that has twenty plus players. They can swap them out. It's just like hockey, you got to have that bench that supports the starters. And we just didn't have that today.”

Although the Wolverines fell late to the Bengals, Carter Borcziak (hat trick) and senior captain, Kaden Zinner (2 goals), had excellent offensive performances. In fact, they both scored two goals early to help the Wolverines take a 4-1 first quarter lead.

See Lacrosse • Page 4

Military Values Shape County Leadership Team page 3

Russell Trustees Face Backlash Over Late Special Meeting Notice page 6

Classifieds page 11

Town Crier

225th Anniversary Celebration

April 23, 6:30 p.m.

The community is invited to a 225th anniversary celebration for Chesterland at Geauga West Library. The program will feature Justice Miner, founder of Chesterland, and Gen. George Washington, highlighting the township’s early history and the Revolutionary War service that connects these two figures.

The event is free and open to the public. No reservations are required.

Presented by the Chester Grave Hunters. For information, contact ChesterGraveHunters@gmail.com.

Food Pantry Open

April 24, 10 a.m. to noon

The food pantry at the Chester Christian Center church is open to anyone in the community in need of food. One does not need to be a member of the church to attend.

The church is located at 11815 Chillicothe Road in Chester Township.

Free Community Dinner

April 24, 5-6:30 p.m.

Mayfield United Methodist Church is hosting dinner at the church located at 7747 Mayfield Road in Chester Township. Carryout is available.

West Geauga Kiwanis Meetings

Tuesdays, 6:45 p.m.

West Geauga Kiwanis meets every Tuesday at the Chesterland Baptist Church, 12670 Chillicothe Road. Join for a free dinner and learn how Kiwanis serves local students and the community. Learn more at wgkiwanis. org.

Free Community Lunch

April 29, 11 a.m. to 1 p.m.

All are welcome to attend a free community lunch presented by the Women’s League of St. Mark Lutheran Church, 11900 Chillicothe Road, Chester Township.

LCGS Meets

April 30, 10 a.m.

The Lake County Genealogical Society will meet via Zoom. Following the business meeting, Merralee Retallick will present "Introduction to AI for Genealogy." The program will include basic terminology of Artificial Intelligence and a bit about where it's been and where it's going in relation to genealogy.

To receive a Zoom invitation, email lcgsohio@lcgsohio.org at least two days in advance.

Young of Heart

May 1, 11:30 a.m.

Geauga Young of Heart will meet at St. Anselm Church in Chester Township. Refreshments will be provided, along with a Derby Hat party. Attendees may decorate a hat for a chance to win a prize.

The group will attend a movie May 7 at 11 a.m. at Aurora Atlas Cinema. The movie title is to be determined.

An outing to Playhouse Square’s Palace Theatre is scheduled for June 17 for “The Great Gatsby,” with dinner included at the Music Box Restaurant. Reservations are due by May 1. For trip information, call Kimber at 440-668-3293.

See Town Crier • Page 4

Military Values Shape County Leadership Team

By rose nemunA editor@KArlovecmedi

Geauga County Administrator Amy Bevan and Deputy Administrator Mark Jimison bring a combined 57 years of U.S. Marine Corps ser vice to their roles in county government.

Together, the two veterans now serve Geau ga County in key leadership positions within the Geauga County Commissioners’ office.

Bevan, appointed March 18, 2025, over sees the day-to-day operations of the com missioners’ office, implementing board pol icy, coordinating with elected officials and departments, and leading internal policy and planning efforts.

Jimison, appointed Oct. 7, 2025, supports those efforts by working with department directors to execute priorities and improve coordination across county operations.

“Amy and Mark have brought a high level of professionalism, organization and respon siveness to the commissioners’ office,” Geau ga County Commissioner Carolyn Brakey said. “I think even those who initially ques tioned the need for changes now recognize that their leadership has strengthened the office and improved how it serves the public.”

Bevan’s Path

Bevan graduated High School and The Ohio

“Growing up, I was fortunate to be surround ed by remarkable role models, beginning with my parents,” Bevan said. “They gave me a strong foundation grounded in God, service and love of country. Those values weren’t just spoken, they were lived out daily.” al 9-to-5 job was never her plan. Instead, she county administrator because, much like the

Marine Corps, it allows me to continue a life of service. I have always been driven by the desire to contribute to something larger than myself and this role provides that same sense of purpose and responsibility.”

She described the position as a full-circle

“This community helped shape and raise me, and now I have the privilege of giving back,” Bevan said. “I bring with me more than 25 years of experience, perspective and leadership gained around the world — all of which I am eager to invest here at home.

“I deeply respect the passion and dedication each commissioner brings to serving our county. Public service requires time, energy and a willingness to make difficult decisions, and I recognize the commitment that responsibility demands,” she added. “I value each commissioner not only for their dedication, but for the unique life experiences and skill sets they contribute. Those diverse perspectives strengthen the decision-making process and ultimately benefit the entire community.”

She said her military background strongly informs her approach to county administration.

“As county administrator, I apply that same approach by working across multiple departments under the authority of the commissioners, ensuring alignment, efficiency and shared purpose,” Bevan said. “In both settings, the ability to unify different entities around common goals is essential. Military service also instills enduring values such as duty, integrity, accountability and service before self. These principles closely mirror the expectations placed on public administrators

See County • Page 7

8389 Mayfield Road, Suite B5 Chesterland, Ohio 44026

Phone 440-729-7667 FAX 440-729-8240 ads@karlovecmedia.com editor@karlovecmedia.com

OFFICE HOURS

9:30 a.m. - 3 p.m. Monday, Tuesday, Thursday, Friday Closed Wednesdays

Cassandra C. Shofar, News Editor Jamie A. Ward, Sports Editor Ann Wishart, Staff Reporter Allison Wilson, Staff Reporter Emma MacNiven, Staff Reporter Pamela J. Molnar, Production Supervisor Jeffrey B. Karlovec, Publisher John D. Karlovec, Editor Deadlines

Clay Karlovec, Sales Representative

Clinton Sestak, Sales Representative

Amber Ballard, Sales Representative

Regina Swinerton, Classifieds

Karen S. Kaplan, Graphic Design

Emma McGuire, Paginator

• Editorial submissions are printed as space is available, at the publisher’s discretion, and may be edited for length, clarity and grammar. All submissions are due by noon on the Friday prior to the Wednesday publication date for consideration for that edition.

• Email all editorial submissions to editor@karlovecmedia.com.

• The space reservation deadline for paid advertisements in that week’s Chesterland News is 4 p.m. on the Thursday prior to publication. Late ads may be accepted at the discretion of management.

• Email advertising requests and questions to ads@karlovecmedia.com.

Circulation

• The Chesterland News is distributed for free to homes and businesses in Chester Township. It is mailed through the U.S. Postal Service.

• Copies are also available at rack locations within Chester township.

• Produced by the Chesterland News, LLC.

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

• The Chesterland News, LLC assumes no responsibility of error contained in any pre-printed material delivered with the paper as an insertion therein.

• The Chesterland News, LLC reserves the right to reject or revise any advertisement or news item for publication. Letters to the Editor reflect the opinion of those signing them and not necessarily that of either the Chesterland News, LLC, its affiliates or its advertisers. All letters submitted are subject to editing, and none will be returned.

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

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

Lacrosse

from page 1

To start the game, Borcziak, Zinner and their Wolverines’ teammates showed high energy and intensity during the first half.

Although the Bengals scored first with 7:37 left in the first quarter, just 20 seconds later, Borcziak tied the game at 1-1.

Excited to get the first goal, Borcziak said the Wolverines ran a nice fast break on the offensive attack.

“(I was) fired up, always like the first one,” Borcziak said. “I had Ben Mackin helping me with a lot of assists. We run off the fast break, one of us drops down, it was there, (I was) open.”

With a high level of energy, the Wolverines added three additional goals to close out the first quarter.

Scoring two of the three final first quarter goals for the Wolverines was Zinner.

Borcziak then scored the Wolverines final goal of the first quarter, his second of the game, to put the Wolverines up 4-1.

After the Wolverines took a three goal lead, the Bengals stormed back at the start of the second period.

Scoring three straight goals, the Bengals tied the score at 4-4 with 7:36 to go in the first half.

Just before halftime, late in the second quarter, the Wolverines took a 5-4 lead as senior midfielder Ben Mackin found the back of the net.

After intermission both teams traded goals throughout the third quarter.

The Bengals tied the game at 5-5 just after intermission.

Then, with 5:18 left in the third quarter, the Wolverines regained the lead, 6-5, when junior midfielder Vito Carcioppolo scored.

The Wolverines opened up a two goal lead at 7-5 with 1:01 remaining in the third

Town Crier

from page 2

A July 7–9 trip to Gettysburg, Pa., will include tours of the battlefield, Gettysburg Museum, the “A New Birth of Freedom” film, the Battle of Gettysburg Cyclorama and the Eisenhower National Historic Site. The trip also includes the show “Joshua” at Sight & Sound Theatre in Lancaster.

For trip reservations, call Kimber at 440668-3293.

Meet Us in the Garden

May 2, 10 a.m.

The OSU Lake County Master Gardener Volunteers continues its Meet Us in the Garden talk at the Mentor Public Library, 8215 Mentor Ave.

The topic, “Mental Health and Gardening,” will explore the benefits of gardening on mental well-being, including reducing stress, anxiety and depression.

The session is free, but registration is required. Visit mentorpl.org or call 440-2558811.

Call the Master Gardeners helpline at 440-853-2625 with any gardening questions.

Happy Tails Benefit Dinner

May 3, 2-5 p.m.

The non-profit, no-kill Happy Tails Cat Sanctuary is holding its fourth annual “Sunday Dinner with a Purr-pose” benefit at the

quarter on Borcziak's hat trick.

Just like on his first two goals, Borziak said that his third goal was obtained by running an effective fast break.

He said the key to scoring on the fast break was utilizing deception.

“(The key was deception), not letting the defense know,” Borcziak said. “You got to drive back so the defense either has to pick the other guy or go to you, (and) either or, we're scoring.”

Limited by a small roster, the Wolverines did their best to stop the Bengals fourth quarter attack.

However, the Bengals were able to break a 7-7 tie to take the lead with 5:43 left in the contest.

They then added two final goals to claim a 10-7 victory over the Wolverines.

“Credit to them, they have two or three players that really move the ball well and we just ran out of gas,” Coach Weir said. “My guys, I couldn't be prouder of how they played today.”

In addition to Borcziak leading the Wolverines offensive attack with a hat trick against the Bengals, he also netted four goals in the Wolverines 14-2 victory over the Cleveland Heights Tigers on April 13 at Howell field.

Against the Tigers, Borcziak said that the Wolverines did an excellent job of working together to move the ball efficiently and to get open to take shots on goal.

“Again (against the Tigers we) just had great ball movement, great looks, I had three on the crease there,” Borcziak said. “Just great looks, especially from all my teammates, definitely got to give it all to my teammates.”

With the great season that he is having, Borcziak is process focused on improvement.

“(My) goals are just to be a better lacrosse player and to be better than I was when I started.”

Banquet Center St. Noel, 35200 Chardon Road in Willoughby Hills.

Registration begins at 1:30 p.m. with a family-style dinner at 2:30 p.m. Event includes silent and Chinese auctions, 50-50 raffle and live entertainment.

Tickets are $75 per person. For more information or to purchase tickets by April 26, call or text Doreen at 440-759-0076.

Donations of cat food and kitty litter brought to the benefit would be appreciated.

Senior Citizens Dinner

May 13, 4:30 p.m.

West Geauga Local Schools and the Geauga West Rotary will host a Senior Citizens Dinner at West Geauga Middle School, 8611 Cedar Road.

The event is held in appreciation of senior citizens in the West Geauga community. Dinner will be provided by the West Geauga Board of Education, with entertainment by West Geauga students. Free valet parking will be available through the Geauga West Rotary.

RSVP by May 6 by calling Diane at 440729-5913.

Class of 1976 Reunion

The West Geauga High School Class of 1976 will hold its 50th class reunion June 1213. Organizers are seeking to reconnect with missing classmates.

For information, contact Kevin Lyons at 216-407-0946.

SUBMITTED

Community members gather at West Geauga Schools Transportation Department’s “Drive the Bus” event April 11, where participants toured vehicles, met staff and experienced driving a school bus in a supervised setting.

Drive the Bus

West Geauga Schools Transportation Department successfully hosted its “Drive the Bus” event on April 11, welcoming community members interested in exploring careers in student transportation.

The event, held at the Old Newbury Schools location, was very well attended and provided participants with a handson opportunity to learn about becoming a school bus driver, van driver or transportation aide. Attendees had the chance to tour buses, meet current staff, ask questions and even experience driving a bus in a safe, supervised environment.

“We were thrilled with the turnout and the level of interest from our community,” said Melody Coniglio, director of Transportation for West Geauga Schools. “Events like this allow individuals to see firsthand the meaningful impact they can have on

students’ daily lives.”

Despite the strong attendance and positive engagement, West Geauga Schools Transportation is still actively hiring for the upcoming 2026–27 school year. The department currently has four open positions for bus drivers and two open positions for van drivers

West Geauga Schools offers paid training, benefits, a supportive work environment and the opportunity to make a difference in the lives of students every day.

“We encourage anyone who may have missed the event but is still interested to reach out,” Coniglio added. “This is a rewarding career where you become an important part of a student’s school experience.”

The next event is May 9 at West Geauga High School from 9-11 a.m.

For more information, call 440-7290026 or email schoolbus@westg.org.

Community Invited to Celebrate Chester’s 225th Birthday

stAff report

Chester Township will celebrate its 225th anniversary April 23, with community festivities honoring early settlers Justice and Mabel Miner, who arrived in the area in 1801.

“It’s so unique that we have this connection to both America 250 and the founding of Chester,” said Diana Kresnye, of the Chester Grave Hunters, earlier this year,

To mark the anniversary, the Chester Grave Hunters will host a free community celebration at at 6:30 p.m. April 23 at Geauga West Library, 13455 Chillicothe Road, in the Eykyn room.

“This event is about rediscovering who we are as a community and sparking excitement for everything ahead in Chesterland’s anniversary year,” organizers said.

The event will feature interactive storytelling with portrayals of Justice Miner and Gen. George Washington, along with photo opportunities and refreshments.

Chester Township Trustees will also present a proclamation during the event honoring the Miner family.

In addition to the public celebration, the Chester Grave Hunters will present an interactive educational program earlier in the day for students at West Geauga Middle School as part of the “George & Justice Morning Show.”

“Chesterland’s story begins with one name — Justice Miner. He was the first to stake his life and labor on this land, and we want every person in Chesterland to know his name,” organizers said. “When we honor Justice, we honor the courage that built this community.”

Russell Township

Trustees Face Backlash Over Late Special Meeting Notice

By emmA mAcniven mAcniven@KArlovecmediA com

Russell Township residents raised concerns about transparency following a March 30 special meeting that was publicized at the last minute, despite being verbally scheduled weeks in advance.

Residents said the lack of notice shut the public out of the township’s budget processes.

Resident Tonda Poppe questioned why the permanent appropriations meeting was not posted on the township website, even though it had been planned weeks ahead.

“Could you please tell us why the Mon-

day meeting was not posted on the website? There was no notice of the Monday meeting to approve the 2026 budget on your website. Why did that not occur?” she asked officials.

Board Administrator Melissa Palmer said special meetings are not posted online because they are often scheduled at the last minute.

“Because some of them come up in urgent situations, emergency situations within a day, in an event, in an attempt to be even-handed, they get sent to what's called the sunshine notice list,” she said. “If you're on the list — anyone is welcome to be on the list — you get notified.”

Palmer later acknowledged not all meet-

ings are scheduled last minute.

“I think (the permanent appropriations meeting) was probably (publicized) almost a week in advance,” Palmer said.

“This meeting was decided a couple weeks in advance,” Poppe responded.

Trustees had briefly discussed scheduling the March 30 during their March 19 meeting, when officials agreed to meet at 5:30 p.m. However, the sunshine notice was not sent to the notification list until March 26, according to press records.

Palmer said meeting times can still change, even when scheduled in advance.

“Did that also then affect contacting local newspapers? Because I understand that you did not meet the deadline,” Poppe said.

Trustee Chris Hare said publication deadlines limit the township’s ability to notify residents about special meetings through newspapers.

“I can't throw it in the newspaper for you to read. It doesn't come out til Thursday,” he added.

Palmer added sunshine notices do not often appear in newspapers.

Another resident, who asked to remain anonymous, questioned why the meeting was not published in the paper.

“I do not even attempt advertising special meetings in the newspaper,” Palmer later said. “The obligation is to let people who

have requested (it to be notified) and I do, faithfully. The obligation is to notify them before the 24 hours’ notice or with 24 hours’ notice.”

“That falls as an acceptable notification under the state law that … we individually must sign up ourselves for the sunshine list?” the resident asked, noting she had requested to be added to the list weeks earlier.

Palmer said she had just received her request to be added.

Ohio Revised Code Section 121.221 (F) requires at least 24 hours notice for special meetings, a standard Russell Township officials said they follow.

“Every public body, by rule, shall establish a reasonable method whereby any person may determine the time and place of all regularly scheduled meetings and the time, place, and purpose of all special meetings. A public body shall not hold a special meeting unless it gives at least twenty-four hours' advance notice to the news media that have requested notification, except in the event of an emergency requiring immediate official action,” the ORC reads. “The rule shall provide that any person, upon request and payment of a reasonable fee, may obtain reasonable advance notification of all meetings at which any specific type of public business is to be discussed. Provisions for advance notification may include, but are not limited to, mailing the agenda of meetings to all subscribers on a mailing list or mailing notices in self-addressed, stamped envelopes provided by the person.”

Poppe urged township officials to improve transparency going forward.

“Given the concerns about the budget carryover … the optics of not having that (meeting) more publicized to the community, I think aren't good,” Poppe said.

Geauga West Branch

13455 Chillicothe Road, Chester Township, 440-729-4250. Programs require registration unless otherwise noted. Visit www.geaugalibrary.net.

Puzzle Exchange

April 25, 9 a.m. to 4 p.m.

Visitors who have completed the same puzzle more than once and are ready for a new challenge can exchange gently used puzzles (in good condition, no missing pieces) for new-to-you used puzzles. Registration is not required.

County from page 3

who are entrusted with managing taxpayer resources and serving the community. The foundation of disciplined leadership and ethical responsibility developed through military service directly supports the demands of effective county governance.”

She said Geauga County stands out because its residents have a strong sense of identity and values.

Jimison’s Journey

Jimison graduated from Kenston High School before serving his country.

He was commissioned as a second lieutenant in the Marine Corps after graduating from The Citadel in May 1993 and served

much of his military career as a judge advocate general (JAG), working in military justice (prosecution and defense), operational law, installation law and administrative law.

“I have deployed to Africa and Afghanistan in support of the War on Terror,” Jimison said.

Later in his career, he served in several non-legal roles, including inspector general, executive officer of a command and branch head within departments at Headquarters Marine Corps and the Pentagon. He retired as a colonel in February 2024.

“I couldn’t wait to return to my home in Geauga County,” Jimison said. “People in this county closely align to my beliefs and values. I especially appreciate this after living in so many other parts of the United States.”

He said he values the county’s history, traditions and community culture.

“We have the best county fair, I love ma-

ple syrup season and pancake breakfasts, clam bakes in the fall, people still take off their hats, stop talking and put their hands on their hearts during the national anthem, many roads here are named after great farming families,” Jimison said. “We have longstanding programs like 4-H developing our future leaders, Boy Scouts and Girl Scouts, and the people here still respect and support our first responders and military.

“Speaking of first responders, the Geauga County police, sheriff and fire departments are exceptional here,” he added. “I can go on and on about what separates Geauga County from other parts of the United States. I guess it took me to live in so many other places to really appreciate all the great things Geauga County has going for it. I hope the people here realize and appreciate what we have.”

He said he was drawn to the position as a

way to give back to his home county.

“After serving my country, I was searching for a purpose more than a job and I felt I had something to give back to my home county,” Jimison said. “After working here now, my passion has increased because of the team I have become part of. Within the board of commissioners, there are so many talented and selfless people doing amazing things for this county and getting very little recognition.”

He said his military background helps him prioritize the greater good over personal interests.

“You do not succeed in the military by being internally focused and self-serving,” Jimison said. “I owe everything I have and achieved in my life to God and am thankful that God loved me long before I loved him. I pray every day that I can fulfill the purpose he has planned for me and thankful for his grace.”

Chester Artist Featured at Ohio Craft Museum

By emmA mAcniven mAcniven@KArlovecmediA com

As Chester Township resident Molly Johnson recently reflected on winning the Sue Cavanaugh Award for Excellence for her clay piece “Gravity Particle,” she recalled taking her first sculpture class at Kent State University.

“I was just kind of hooked,” she said in an April 10 interview.

Johnson’s sculpture — which will be featured at the Ohio Craft Museum this summer — was one of 73 selected from more than 400 entries for the Ohio Craft Museum’s “Best of 2026” exhibition, which showcases works in clay, glass, metal, wood, fiber and mixed media.

Johnson was also one of 13 artists to receive an Award of Excellence in the Ohio Designer Craftsmen’s annual members competition.

She and her husband, Benjamin, along with their children, Quinn, (16), and Collette, (14), moved to Chester Township eight years ago after living in Indiana and North Carolina in search of a community with a strong school system, she said.

While living in Geauga County, Johnson said she sought out a clay community and found one at Big Creek Clay in Chardon, where she is able to access resources and connect with other artists.

She also maintains a home studio, where she creates while balancing her role in communications and development at Red Oak Camp and caring for her children.

“Clay is a medium that cannot dry out, or

you have to toss what you're working on, so you're constantly — if you're not just building it day after day and putting all your time into it, you have to go and make sure it's at a certain state of consistency to keep working with it,” Johnson explained. “So, you can do it a little bit here and there. But I would say it would take me four weeks to build (‘Gravity Particle’) if we were to condense all that.”

Johnson said she created the sculpture gradually, working on it intermittently and

piecing it together like a puzzle.

She begins by shaping clay on a wheel, cutting it apart and reassembling it before moving into hand-building techniques, she said.

“I don't have a full plan when I'm building out sculpture, but it's more seeing how the pieces fit in the direction I want it to grow in,” Johnson said.

The unpredictability of clay also makes it difficult to anticipate the final result, she added.

“Once I put glaze on it and it was fired, I wasn't necessarily pleased with the surface,” she said of the sculpture.

The finished piece revealed a range of dark, cosmic tones, which she sealed with an application of car wax to create a satin finish, she said.

“You can plan all you want, but there's always things that pop up that are either di-

Artist

from page 8

sastrous or, you know, opportunist,” Johnson said. “If it's a disaster, you have to learn and maybe restart again. On another piece, this one … I didn't like the surface, I didn't know what I was going to do with it. So, I just tried something that I thought could work and it worked out.”

Her inspiration often evolves alongside her life experiences, she said.

“The concept kind of comes depending on what's happening in my life. The pieces themselves take a very long time to finish and so then ideas and different topics of conversation or things that are happening kind of influence what I see at the end of the piece. But, I am very interested in science, nature (and) life,” Johnson explained.

She said her work frequently explores ephemeral concepts.

“It's basically the passing of time or the passing of things that you know you can't physically grasp, but are there,” she said. “It's a feeling or it's something you can't necessarily wrap your head around. (It’s) the

idea of making something intangible, a physical representation of the intangible.”

In “Gravity Particle,” she aimed to create a physical depiction of gravity.

“Gravity, obviously is an intangible concept and we know it exists, but I'm just giving a visual to what maybe a piece of gravity would look like,” she said.

Johnson also expressed appreciation for the exhibition’s juror, Carol Sauvion, an American craft scholar and director of the PBS series “Craft in America.”

“You're looking at it as a blind jury process, so you're really just looking at the work and if it impacts the juror,” Johnson said of the selection process. “It's important to me because the message that I sent along describing the work and then the person visually seeing the work, it translated. They saw that. They understood that. This is a big deal for me because the person that was the juror for this has spent her life dedicated to promoting, educating and learning from craft material.”

“Gravity Particle” will be on display at the Ohio Craft Museum from May 3 to July 3, and later at Kent State University’s Center for the Visual Arts from Aug. 25 to Oct. 7.

Letters to the Editor

West Geauga Students

Deserve Stage Worth Their Talent

I had a delightful experience when I attended the West Geauga High School's production of "You're a Good Man, Charlie Brown." The cast was as professional as the one on Broadway.

The orchestra was just as outstanding. I met one of the guitar players, who I thought was an adult, but he was a senior.

All this talent does not blossom on its own. Thank you to the administration's excellence for employing such artistically gifted teachers, especially to the ones who direct the music and band programs.

I could not help thinking that our community ought to give these individuals what they have earned, a performing arts center. What a joy it would be to contribute to all this talent.

Eileen Marie Russell Township

Community Meetings

Listed are upcoming public meetings and executive sessions. These meeting notices are NOT legal notices.

Chester Township: April 22, 7 p.m., Park Board; April 30, 6:30 p.m., Board of Trustees; May 6, 7 p.m., Zoning Commission; May 11, 7 p.m., Board of Zoning Appeals; May 14, 6:30 p.m., Board of Trustees; May 19, 6 p.m., Land Use Plan Meeting; May 20, 7 p.m., Zoning Commission; May 28, 6:30 p.m., Board of Trustees. All meetings are held at the Township Hall, 12701 Chillicothe Road, unless otherwise noted.

Russell Township: April 22, 6 p.m., Zoning Commission; May 4, 7 p.m., Board of Zoning Appeals; May 7, 2:30 p.m., Board of Trustees; May 20, 4 p.m., Citizens’ Park District (511), Township Community Room, 8501 Kinsman Road; May 21, 6 p.m., Board of Trustees; May 27, 6 p.m., Zoning Commission. All meetings are held in the new Community Room at 8501 Kinsman Road, unless otherwise noted.

West Geauga BOE: May 18, 6:30 p.m., regular meeting. All meetings are held at the BOE Community Room, 8615 Cedar Road, unless otherwise noted.

Geauga Park District

For more information and registration, contact the park district at 440-286-9516 or visit www.geaugaparkdistrict.org

Touch-a-Truck

April 25, 9 a.m. to 1 p.m.

Geauga Park District will host Touch-aTruck as part of America250 - Ohio Moves Transportation Month at The West Woods. Visitors can explore tractors, trucks and construction equipment used to maintain local parks. The event offers hands-on ac-

tivities for children of all ages. Shuttles will run from overflow parking at ASM International on state Route 87.

Family Campfire Safety

May 3, 2-3:30 p.m.

Campfire safety is important for everyone in the family. Discover how to properly build, maintain and extinguish fires at Claridon Woodlands. Then watch a few fire-building demos and roast a marshmallow or two. Registration is required.

Help Support the Chesterland News and Local Journalism

The Chesterland News and newspaper journalism are critically important and essential in protecting the vibrant community in which we live.

The Chesterland News stitches the communities we serve together. From news to in-depth articles on topics that deeply affect the community, the Chesterland News strives to bring you complete coverage.

The cost of publishing this newspaper — editorial, printing, mailing and other production costs — is accomplished primarily through the support of generous advertisers. These advertisers are community leaders who understand the value of a stronglocal newspaper. We appreciate each and every one of them.

To help us continue to invest in the community, we invite readers to show their support through a voluntary newspaper

subscription. If you value strong community journalism, please consider helping us with a voluntary subscription. The amount is entirely up to you. Simply complete the subscription form in this edition or call 440729-7667 ext. 500.

For any donation of $50 or more, we’ll even toss in a free gift in appreciation:

1. FREE one-year online-only subscription to the Geauga County Maple Leaf, a six-time winner of Ohio Newspaper of theYear, OR

2. Five FREE 25-word classified ads over the next year.

As always, we greatly appreciate the support you give us, whether it’s financially or simply by continuing to be a loyal reader of the Chesterland News.

Jeff and John Karlovec

Happy Tails to Host Benefit

suBmitted

Happy Tails Cat Sanctuary will be holding its fourth annual "Sunday Dinner with a PURR-pose" benefit on May 3 at The Banquet Center at St. Noel, 35200 Chardon Road, in Willoughby Hills.

The event, from 2- 5 p.m. with begin registration at 1:30 p.m., and cost $75 per person, which covers a family-style dinner served at 2:30 p.m.

The offerings include: beef, chicken, salmon, and pasta entrees (and vegan options available with advance notice); two vegetable side dishes; coffee and tea; soft drinks; juices; beer; wine; and desserts of cake and strudel. The event also features a silent auction, a Chinese auction, and a 50-50 raffle.

Free photos of attendees are available

courtesy of Pure Image Photo Booth. For inquiries or to make reservations (with an R.S.V.P. deadline of April 26), call Doreen at 440-759-0076 or email HappyTailsCatSanctuary@gmail.com.

Checks or money orders for reservations and/or donations can be mailed to: Happy Tails Cat Sanctuary, P.O. Box 581, Chesterland, OH 44026. To use PayPal, go to the donations section at HappyTailsCatSanctuary.org.

Happy Tails is a nonprofit, mostly cageless and no-kill sanctuary in Geauga County, with foster homes in Geauga, Lake and Cuyahoga counties. Some of the cats are adoptable, but others will remain at the sanctuary indefinitely due to physical or behavioral challenges. The cats are provided with food, shelter, attention and (when needed) veterinary care.

Perennial Gardeners Plant Sale Marks 75 Years

The Perennial Gardeners of Chesterland will host their annual plant sale May 9, the day before Mother’s Day, from 8 a.m. to 2 p.m. rain or shine, in the Chester Town Hall parking lot, 12701 Chillicothe Road. The club celebrated its 75th anniversary this past fall.

A wide assortment of hanging baskets, perennials, native plants, houseplants, herbs and annuals will be available. Shoppers also may browse the “Garden Shed” and “Boutique” for new and gently used home and garden items. Admission and parking are free; cash, credit cards and checks are accepted.

Founded in 1950, the club continues to support the community through beautification projects, educational programs and

scholarships for local students pursuing horticulture and environmental studies. The club is an active member of the Garden Club of Ohio, National Garden Club and Holden Forest and Affiliates.

For 75 years, the Perennial Gardeners of Chesterland has been a flourishing cornerstone of the community, nurturing not just plants but also the bonds of friendship, education and civic work

Interested in joining PGC? Whether a seasoned gardener or a budding enthusiast, there’s a place for everyone in the Perennial Gardeners of Chesterland. Email perennialgardenerschesterland@gmail.com to learn more or follow the PGC Facebook page to see photos of the members in action.

Real Estate Transfers

Following is a list of area real estate transfers for the week ending April 10 and period April 13-16, 2026, provided as a public service by the Geauga County Auditor’s Office. Transfers may involve the sale of land only.

CHESTER TOWNSHIP

Patricia H. Deacon (trustee), 7683 Puddingstone Drive, to Jeffrey and Paige Deacon, $650,000. (3.00 acres)

Geraldine A. Boss, 12688 Woodside Drive, to Louis J. and Ruth C. Kulis, $237,000. (0.76 acres)

Michael W. McCabe, 8423 Sharp Lane and Sharp Lane, to Cassandra Rivier, $173,000.

Benjamin D. and Dawn L. Schaubert, 11892 East Hill Drive and East Hill Drive, to Jason M. Brothers, $519,000. (4.48 acres)

RUSSELL TOWNSHIP

Michael and Ciara D. Querubin (trustees), 15665 Harmony Falls Lane, to Build CLE LLC, $365,000. (3.05 acres)

Thomas M. and Wendy L. McIntyre, 8700 Galloway Trail, to Jessica Vaughn Lombardi and Benjamin Huttig Lombardi, $710,000. (7.53 acres)

Mark A. and Laura L. Dalessandro (TOD), 13814 Fox Hills Drive, to James Chandler and Musette Vincent, $625,000. (1.50 acres)

Classifieds

AUTOS & PARTS

Have an antique or classic or hot rod you no longer drive or want? Senior citizen looking for a car. 440-2859475.

FOR RENT

Berkshire school district rental house with woods and water, 4 BR, 2.5BA, fireplace, patio, attached garage, no pets. For information lmjgwg@windstream.net.

Claridon: Efficiency Apartment for rent. $450/mo. Singles only. No pets. Please call after 5pm. 440-4794961.

EVENTS

Pancake Breakfast for Trail Life and Heritage Girls. Fundraiser for local kids. Saturday April 25th 8am1pm. Friendship Alliance Church, Chagrin Falls. TroopOH2206.com/fundraiser for more info.

FOR SALE

Small worm composter bin for your garden by Vego Garden, fill with organic peels/cuttings to attract worms, $35, call/text 440-668-8768.

Sofa: medium gray, VGC, $650. 2-qt Kitchen Aid electric mixer: $35. Brita water filtration pitcher: with replacement filters, make offer. 440-313-3718. Anchor Brand Folding Bench Wringer Floor Stand: 48” tall, Patent 1896, $240. 440-554-5731.

Two double-hung Provia replacement windows: combined dimensions 75 7/8 X 53 5/8. Perfect for a front window, $475. 440-336-5044 George. Custom sizes & shapes available.

HONEY: local, raw, bottled. 1-lb $9; 2-lb $17; 12-lb (1-gal) $75. Mesquite and Buckwheat honey available. 440-567-2586.

LATHEM TIME RECORDER CLOCK, RECORD ALBUMS, Old Cameras, large granite counter-top pieces, fresh/ salt water aquariums, old clocks, kerosene lamps. Inquire. 440-338-3563. Russell. Boat, Trailer, Motor. $200. You haul. 440-488-0256. Chesterland.

Antique cast iron pot belly stove: with star detail, $200. Ladder rack: for enclosed trailer, w/4 cross pieces, 85.25” wide, asking $150. 440-635-1901.

REDUCED: Majacraft Rose spinning wheel. 2 Lazy Kates, 1 extra drive band, 9 bobbins, jumbo flyer, fiber. $950. 440-564-1239.

Family Burial Plot for sale. All Souls Cemetery. Serene location in prime section. Section 16. 216-440-8743.

VINTAGE TOYS: FP barn, houseboat, carousel, little people, animals, record player, Weebles, Winnebago motor-home. Lots of Barbie items. 440-729-1082.

GARAGE/ESTATE SALES

Troy Twp: May 8th-10th 7a-dark. 16336 Jug. Raymond Dayton multi-generation farm and family estate. 1-row plow, 1-row tiller. Antique grain scale, 2-man saw, cheese boxes, trunks, crocs. Tools! Households, towels, bedding, rugs. School supplies, toys.

Chardon: 4/24-4/25 9a-3p, 11126 Fowlers Mill Rd. Tools, bikes, furniture, puzzles, ATV salt spreader, kayak, household items. A little something for everyone!

Farmington Road Yard Sales: April 29th and 30th, 16925 Farmington Rd, 44491.

HELP WANTED

PETS & ANIMALS

Dog Boarding Day Care: in-home. Call John 440-5338870. www.happyhoundhouse.com

Boxer: 5-yrs old, female. FREE to a good home. 440313-4995.

55-gal and 32-gal aquariums, in double stand $75. 135-gal aquarium $150. Combined $200 for all. 440-729-0070.

“Franklin” adult gray tiger cat needs indoor home. 14 pounds of sweetheart! Social, neutered, vaxxed. Good with other cats. Rebecca 440-321-2485.

MISCELLANEOUS

FREE Fact: Nicotine products are becoming more addictive and widely used by young people. Disposable e-cigarettes are causing a rise in youth addiction.

ATTENTION Newbury Graduating HS Seniors: Scholarship applications from Newbury Cares Inc coming soon!

REAL ESTATE

Private Investor paying cash for homes/land in any condition. Call or text Brian today at 440-346-0161 for a No-obligation offer. No repairs needed. Fast closings.

.34-acre Bainbridge lot on 306, part of Lake Lucerne community with amenities. Tap into utilities: gas, electric, sewer, private community well. SAVE BIG! 75k. 440-574-1599.

SERVICES

ED’S PAINTING, PLASTERING & POWER WASHING: Quality Work. Reasonable Rates. Interior and Exterior. Call Ed today at 216-323-6744. Free Estimates!

Taxi Driver: 2022 F350 Super Duty, extend cab, 6 seats, tows any trailer. Local or long distance. Call Brian Morgret 440-650-9385.

SUMMER CHILDCARE: 18+ years experience, CPR certified, Reasonable rates, Flexible hours, In my home on Sperry Road in Newbury. Call or text Marie 216-513-3668.

Offering Junk Removal and Demolition: 440-883-9124.

AM RIDES LLC – CREW TRANSPORT: Dependable job site transportation serving Geauga, Trumbull & Ashtabula. Clean, well-maintained vans. Reliable daily/weekly service. Call/Text: 330-431-8282.

Buckeye Landscaping looking for new clients for upcoming season. Services including mowing, mulching, pruning, spring/fall clean-ups, also snow plowing. Call 440 883 9124.

SCG Property Group LLC: Let us help with your interior or exterior home improvement projects. See list of services and request a quote at scgpropertygroup.com.

Certified Care Provide, will come to your home. Elderly, Special Needs, and Children. Light Housework included. Years of experience. 440-313-1804.

WANTED TO BUY

Old Coins and Currency Buyer is looking to expand collection. I have extensive knowledge and 50 years’ experience. You will want to call me first. I can travel to you. Call Gary 330-469-4751.

Old fishing tackle wanted: fishing lures (wood or plastic), mouse to bear traps, wooden duck decoys. Call Lee 440-313-8331.

4-wheelers, 3-wheelers, dirt bikes, mini-bikes, go-carts, golf carts, gators, farm tractors/equipment, trailers, riding mowers, snowplows. Paying cash. 440-413-3119. Also, scrap cleanup and removal.