Volume 6, No. 8
Friday, December 13, 2019
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State Champions Again
Big Plays Lead Hornets To 5th Title By Rich Kelly sports@geaugamapleleaf.com
To reach a state title takes courage, heart and execution. It’s something the Kirtland Hornets know well in the team’s thrilling 17-7 win over Ironton, its second state title in two years. It was the fifth overall under head coach Tiger LaVerde in the Dec. 7 night game played at Tom Benson Hall of Fame Stadium in Canton, completing another 15-0 season. With the Division V title and undefeated record, Kirtland became only the 47th team in Ohio history to run the table and win the title. Last year they did it in Division VI. “We’ve had injuries all season that hurt us,” Laverde said. “Whenever we asked, though, kids stepped right in and played their roles. With other guys out, kids like Mason Rus
BILL FUGATE/KMG
Kirtland’s Gage Sullivan catches this third quarter TD pass from QB Liam Powers to give the Hornets a 17-0 lead en route to a 17-7 win over Ironton in the Division V state championship game. It marks the second straight championship for the Hornets, who are now 30-0 in the last two seasons. Visit http://bit.ly/KirtlandChamps2019 for more photos.
came in tonight and played nearly 40 snaps on defense, and look at the numbers we achieved. Ironton is just so big and strong, we felt
that if we could force them to pass, it would work to our advantage. I didn’t want those big guys beating up our kids all night.”
Kirtland lost Joey Mongelluzzi before he could play a down this season. Anthony DeMarco missed See Football • Page 8
Kirtland Welcomes ‘New Kids on the Block’ By Magdalene Pesch news@kirtlandchronicle.com At the Dec. 2 Kirtland City Council meeting, a new mayor and new city council members took their oaths of office. “The tapestry between your city management and its citizens is a delicate dance. One partner, your mayor and council, provides services, balances a budget and preserves the good while moving the city forward. The other, the citizens, need to support those efforts wholeheartedly. And although there will undoubtedly be disagreements, imagine if both partners began the dialogue with the belief that each had the betterment of Kirtland, Ohio, as its common goal. What a magnificent dance that would be,” Lake County Clerk of Courts Maureen Kelly said as she administered the oaths of office. Kirtland’s new mayor, Kevin Potter, raised his right hand and swore
his oath, as did new council members Scott Haymer, Jeff Ruple and Kelly Wolfe, as well as the re-elected councilman Joe Smolic. Ruple was unanimously elected as the new president-pro-tempore. Councilman Rich Lowery was unanimously elected as the new council president. “Big shoes to fill. Mayor Potter sat in this chair, so I’ll do my best,” said Lowery. “Humbled to be here, and I do thank council for putting me in this position. It’s okay to ask a lot of questions. And it’s also okay to agree to disagree. But most important — we need to listen to each other. And ultimately, a compromise is better than nothing at all. So, with that, my role, my focus will be to continue to move this city forward in a way that benefits all of us.” Potter also offered an anticipatory statement of his years to come. “Over the course of the last few See Council • Page 8
Coffee with Council The next Coffee with Council is scheduled for Dec. 21, 9-10 a.m., at Kirtland City Hall. For more information, contact Joe Smolic at jsmolic@kirtlandohio.com or 440-487-8984.
2020 Publication Schedule January 10 July 3 February 7 August 7 March 6 September 4 April 3 October 2 May 1 November 6 June 5 December 11
MAGDALENE PESCH/KMG
Newly-elected Mayor Kevin Potter took his oath of office during the Dec. 2 Kirtland City Council meeting as his wife, Jeni, held the Bible, and his family looked on.
The Kirtland Chronicle publishes once a month. Karlovec Media Group reserves the right to change, cancel or add publication dates at any time.
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Kirtland Chronicle
Friday, December 13, 2019
City Leaders Swap Praise, Goodbyes Before New Year By Magdalene Pesch news@kirtlandchronicle.com At the Nov. 6 and Nov. 18 Kirtland City Council meetings, leaders prepared for change. City Council President Kevin Potter won the race for mayor against incumbent Doug Davidson in the Nov. 5 general election, with 1,482 votes to Davidson’s 1,222 votes, according to the final official results of the Lake County Board of Elections. Potter will be leaving Ward 1 and Kelly Wolfe will take his place. Wolfe won the seat with 273 votes to candidate Julie Symonds’ 263 votes, according to the board of elections. Ward 2 Councilman David Kirek is stepping down from council with Scott Haymer taking his place. Haymer won the seat over candidate Clint Buchanan, getting 355 votes to Buchanan’s 336 votes, according to the board of elections. Ruple will be taking Ward 4 Councilman Rob Skrbis’ place. Ruple won the seat in an uncontested race, receiving 513 votes. And Ward 3 Councilman Joe Smolic retained his seat, despite being challenged by candidate Richard Kirbus. Smolic netted 405 votes and Kirbus received 342 votes, according to the board of elections. Potter and the new council members took their oaths of office Dec. 2 at city council’s organizational meeting. “I would like to express my appreciation and gratitude to the residents for the opportunity to serve in this role for the last four years,” Davidson said during the Nov. 18 council meeting, where he, Kirek and Skrbis said their goodbyes to city leaders and residents. “I’d like to express my appreciation to the department heads and staff for their around-the-clock protection and service to the community.” Davidson wished the city well on solving future challenges. “Certainly, I’ll be watching with interest,” he said. Kirek also thanked Davidson and the city’s staff for all their work over the years. “I can’t believe 30 years went by,” he said. “I’ve been thinking about 20 years and then it became 30.” Attendees laughed. “I’ve enjoyed myself on this council,” he continued. “I was able to contribute financially to the community and I really appreciated the support I got from other council members. That was very encouraging to me. I want to thank the residents of Kirtland. If
there’s anything I can do to help with, let me know. Thank you all.” Skrbis said he is honored he was able to give back to the community he loves. “I think it’s a phenomenal place to raise your kids,” he said, adding it has been the people that have “kept me around for the 16 years.” “I’ve learned so much,” Skrbis said. “The past couple years, the growth curve, which I appreciate the most for me personally, has been a little bit higher because we’ve had some challenges. I think those are great things to have. A city will usually come up better for them. One thing I know for sure about this city — everybody’s heart is in the right place. I want to thank everybody for allowing me to be a part of that.” Skrbis intends to stay active in Kirtland, he said. “I’m not going anywhere,” he predicted. “There’s a lot of ways to help this city. So I intend to continue to do that.” Potter thanked Kirek for “bits of wisdom along the way.” “We didn’t always agree on everything, but we found some common ground on some things,” said Potter. “You always treated me with respect. I appreciate that.” Potter called Skrbis “a tremendous voice” on council — a voice of reason and calm that he will always appreciate. “Mayor Davidson, thank you for not only your service to this community, but your service to our country,” Potter concluded. “I certainly do appreciate that.” On Nov. 6, Schulz enumerated some of Davidson’s accomplishments for Kirtland’s benefit, including sidewalks and the school area crosswalk. “Your work in setting up the Community Reinvestment Area legislation is just beginning to bear fruit and we look forward to moving that along and getting those businesses with the proper growth here,” Schulz said. “Updating the roadway design standards — that was big. That is going to serve us well. Creating a paving plan so we know what we’re looking at, the costs we’re looking at. Working hard to maintain ‘in-house’ dispatch. Appointing some great people here to serve the city. “You have done an honorable service to the citizens and I’m thankful for your 10 years of loyalty and service,” he added. Davidson thanked Schulz. “(Kirek) was first elected in 1999. Thirty See Goodbyes • Page 3
Friday, December 13, 2019
Kirtland Chronicle
A Note from the Mayor I want to thank the residents of Kirtland that leads to a true understanding of road for giving me the opportunity to serve as conditions, costs and financing mechanisms your mayor. I can say that I am humbled by available to truly fix our roads. Additionally, I the honor and that I will work hard on your will work with city council to create an Ecobehalf. I would also like to thank Doug Da- nomic Development Roundtable. Again, utividson for his service to our city and to our lizing the expertise of residents with various country. Whether or not we agreed on cer- back rounds, we will work to find the right aptain issues or approaches to a path proach to bring in new commercial forward for Kirtland, I always knew tax dollars while keeping Kirtland’s that Mr. Davidson had the best insmall-town appeal. I also look fortentions in for the city in mind. ward to increasing communication On Dec. 2, Kirtland had three between the city and the communew council members sworn in. nity. Whether it be community Kelly Wolfe, Scott Haymer and events, road construction projects, Jeffrey Ruple joined Rich Lowery, the upcoming Old Town area sewer Matt Schulz, John Lesnick and the project or other pertinent informarecently re-elected Joe Smolic to tion, we owe it to our residents to Mayor form a new Kirtland City Council. keep them posted on the issues. Kevin Potter Each brings great perspective and Understanding that there is much degrees of knowledge, and I very much look work to do and a few high hurdles to overforward to working with them all. come, your city government is up for the Having been in office now for a little over challenge. By working with city council and a week, I spent a great deal of time meeting our department heads, we will find innovative department leaders, discussing issues with ways to get things done and most importantcommunity members and communicating ly, keep our residents safe. with members of council. These interactions Finally, congratulations to Tiger Laverde are giving me greater perspective as to our and the Kirtland Hornets for winning the strengths and how we can do even better as program’s fifth football State Championship! we move into the coming year. Supported by an incredible staff, cheerlead2020 will undoubtedly involve working ers, band program and community, the Horthrough some tough budget challenges. To nets defy the odds year after year. We are all meet these challenges and to look toward the so proud! future, we will be kicking off several initiaMerry Christmas & Happy New Year! tives. Leaning on engineers and road paving professionals within our community, I will be Kevin Potter naming a resident-based Road Paving Task 440-429-0293 Force. The objective will be to create a plan Kpotter@kirtlandohio.com
Goodbyes from page 2
years of service to the city, not including one term as a school board member. To give you all an idea, Bill Clinton was president back then,” Schulz went on, adding he appreciated Kirek’s knowledge of the city financials and his willingness to help Schulz work through them and work with former Finance Director
Keith Martinet. Kirek thanked him. “Rob, you’ve done a great job representing the residents of Ward Four,” said Schulz to Skrbis. “I really appreciate that. You always displayed an attitude of gratefulness and understanding. I’ve always admired the way you can empathize with residents to better understand their concerns. I think you did a fantastic job of that.” “Thank you,” replied Skrbis.
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Kirtland Chronicle
Friday, December 13, 2019
Circle of Renewal Yoga and Wellness Studio Now Open Submitted The weather may have been brisk on Nov. 9, but the new yoga and wellness studio holding its grand opening event heated up just nicely, with more than 100 people participating in a full day of free yoga and wellness classes. Circle of Renewal Yoga and Wellness Studio has been open daily since that grand opening a month ago, offering more than 20 classes weekly. They include all types of yoga: power, gentle, vinyasa, candlelight, dance-fusion and a special brand of FUN yoga developed by studio co-owner and Kirtland resident Chris Keller. “I’ve been practicing yoga for more than 20 years and have been a yoga instructor for 17,” said Keller. “Over the years, I’ve honed my classes to maximize fun, joy and silliness, on top of the traditional benefits of yoga, which include developing strength, flexibility, balance and mindfulness. It’s important to me that everyone feels welcome and that belly laughs are abundant.” Keller opened the space with her longtime friend and business partner Christine Coolick. Their studio is situated right across the street from the Kirtland Schools on Chillicothe Road, so the co-owners rounded out their yoga offerings with “all-ages” classes that welcome kids, teens and families. They also added a “late start” flow class on Thursday mornings to welcome middle and high school students before the start of their school day. “We’re really excited about the new space,” said Coolick. “We love the studio because it’s small and intimate, which works perfectly with the close-knit community we’re hoping to build. We don’t want people to have an anonymous experience in class — we want attendees to get to know one another and feel they are a part of something.” To encourage those connections, the studio offers more than just yoga classes. This includes monthly women’s circles, girls’ empowerment circles, guided imagery and yoga nidra classes, as well as special workshops to
FRANCIE COOLICK/CIRCLE OF RENEWAL
Co-Owners Christine Coolick (left) and Chris Keller (right) opened the doors to Circle of Renewal Yoga & Wellness Studio on Nov. 9, which offers a full schedule of classes weekly.
learn meditation and mindfulness, and events to mark important moments like the solstice and the new year. “We’re building a space where people can slow down and connect with what’s most important in their lives,” said Keller. The meditation and mindfulness workshops are a “wonderful way to add more intentional living to your life,” said Coolick. “And the women’s and girls circles are simple but meaningful events where participants gather together and share honestly about what’s going on in their lives — whether that’s something joyful, a struggle or a source of stress. It’s a chance to be real about your daily experiences, and to connect with others at the same time.” The studio is located at 9181 Chillicothe Road. The full class schedule and more are available at www.circleofrenewal.com.
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Kirtland Chronicle
Friday, December 13, 2019
From left, “Students of the Month” Ben Urbanski, of KES, Anna Grbavac, of KMS, and Emma Simons, of KHS.
December Students of the Month
The Kirtland Kiwanis “Students of the Month” for December 2019 are Ben Urbanski, of Kirtland Elementary School, Anna Grbavac, of Kirtland Middle School, and Emma Simons, of Kirtland High School. The Kiwanis sponsors the “Students of
the Month.” The principal and staff chose one student from each school to be recognized. Each student has their picture taken, receives a certificate and a T-shirt that says “Student of the Month.”
Christmas Worship Services Most Holy Trinity Church
8549 Mayfield Road, Chester Township • Christmas Eve: 5 p.m. • Christmas Day: 9 a.m. • Thursday, Dec. 26: 10 a.m. • New Year’s Eve: 5 p.m. • New Year’s Day: 10 a.m.
Kirtland Christian Fellowship
10001 Chillicothe Road, Kirtland Candlelight Christmas Eve Services: • 4 p.m. Afternoon Service • 7 p.m. Evening Service
Kirtland Temple
Parking at 7809 Joseph St. •Christmas Concert & Hymn Sing: Dec. 15 at 7 p.m. Choir concert by Selah, with audience joining in on certain hymns • Christmas Eve Service: Dec. 24 at 7 p.m.
Chesterland Baptist Church
12670 Chillicothe Road, Chester Township • Sunday, Dec. 22 at 9:45 a.m. Christmas Breakfast, followed by Worship at 11 a.m. • Tuesday, Dec. 24 at 6 p.m. Christmas Eve Candlelight Service
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Kirtland Chronicle
Friday, December 13, 2019
Three Kirtland Grads Get into Same Medical School By Donna L. Robinson news@kirtlandchronicle.com Three Kirtland High School alumni are well on their paths to becoming the future faces of medicine. Samantha Achauer, 22, (a 2015 KHS graduate), Sam Welborn, 25, (a 2013 KHS graduate) and Sydney Donohue, 23, (a 2014 KHS graduate) were recently accepted into the University of Toledo College of Medicine. They participated in a recent Q&A about their journeys thus far. Q: When did you develop an interest in seeking a career in medicine? Samantha: When I was in high school, so around 15 or 16 years old. Sam: I have always been interested in medicine since I was young. My parents put the idea in my head, but being naturally drawn to science definitely helped. Sydney: When I was little, my mom used to take us to visit my dad when he was on-call as an anesthesiologist and had to work overnight. We would always bring him a pizza and we would watch a movie or we would play on his computer; so essentially, I thought my dad just got to put people to sleep all day by reading stories and have his family bring him pizza and play games. Did not sound like a bad gig to me!
Q: Who, or what, was your inspiration to seek a career in medicine? Samantha: When I was in high school, I was completely unsure of what I wanted to do because I had a lot of varied interests. But then, I interviewed for summer employment with the Cleveland Clinic in their paid summer internship program. In this program, I completed an eightweek research project at the Clinic’s Medina Hospital, and a large part of my work was getting to talk to patients every day. Having these patient experiences really sold the idea of a career in medicine for me. So much so that I applied for another summer internship with the Clinic during the following summer. Sam: I have a number of inspirational figures in my life in regard to work, but I think that my inspiration in regard to science and medicine was David Machnicki, Kirtland’s previous high school biology/science teacher. Sydney: My parents, who both work in medicine, definitely inspired me to pursue a career in medicine. They both introduced me to science — which I immediately fell in love with — got me volunteering at Lake Health at an early age, and pushed me to perform well in all of my classes. I think what solidified my pre-medicine/biology major was one paragraph in my AP
SUBMITTED
Left to right, students Sam Welborn, Samantha Achauer and Sydney Donohue, Kirtland High School graduates, pose proudly in their white doctor coats at the University of Toledo College of Medicine.
Biology book about apoptosis and cancer. The one paragraph influenced me to do research in pancreatic cancer at The Ohio State University and to volunteer on a hematology/oncologist floor at Nationwide Children’s Hospital.
Q: What undergrad school did you attend prior to being accepted into the University of Toledo College of Medicine? Samantha: I started at the University of Dayton in 2015 and graduated in 2019. I will alSee School • Page 7
Kirtland Chronicle
Friday, December 13, 2019
School
from page 6 ways say that attending UD is the most important and best decision I’ve ever made. Other than my classroom education … the most defining experience of my undergraduate career was being a member on UD’s student-run, volunteer 24/7 emergency ambulance organization that serves the campus community. Becoming an EMT and serving my UD community taught me so much about myself and medicine. After two years, I was elected chief of the organization and promoted to crew chief on shift, which meant I was in charge of all medical decisions on shift and additionally was in charge of all administration matters for the organization. Having these responsibilities, creating relationships with my fellow EMTs and my patients, and practicing medicine in this capacity truly made me a more mature and evolved individual, team member and future provider. Sam: I attended Miami University in Oxford, Ohio, and I graduated in 2017. Miami has a strong biology program and I took a class helping me to prepare to apply for medical school. Both of these were helpful in my application. Overall, I would say Miami did an above average job of preparing me for medical school. Sydney: I graduated from The OSU in 2018. My research laboratory truly gave me the tools to get into medical school. The research involved pancreatic cancer and gave me exposure to different scientific tests, complicated pathways and the ability to think differently. It also introduced me to my love for research, which I hope
to continue doing in medical school and as a physician. What will your regimen of courses entail at the University of Toledo College of Medicine? Samantha: It will be stricter than you could ever imagine. We’re just about wrapped up with your Human Blueprint System, which has been a very in-depth five-week review of an entire undergraduate biochemistry class. But then we go on to learn all the body systems, anatomy, pharmacology, pathology and more. Sam: UTCOM curriculum, so far, entails taking the rough equivalent of 29 credit hours of classes, mostly geared toward preparation for the United States Medical Licensing Exam, step-1 exam, in two years. A subset of our classes entails learning skills related to practice, like how to interact with patients, perform examinations and manage the business side of medicine. Unlike undergrad, most of our course work is self-directed learning, as opposed to assignments, similar to cramming for an exam. Sydney: We take essentially “blocks” of classes about every four to six weeks, then we start learning a new block. For example, the first block involved biochemistry and now we are in hematology/oncology. We do have a chance to take some electives. I will be taking Spanish medicine and a wilderness medicine class. What specific medical specialty or field do you aspire to seek in your career? Samantha: I actually don’t know. Kind of like my career interests in high school, I’m all over the place right now. Clinical rotations during our third year, when we actually get to be in a hospital setting and ex-
, u o y hank
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perience a variety of different specialties, is when most people get a better idea of what might stick. If I had to name a few, I’m interested in emergency, surgery and hematology/oncology medicine. Sam: I am a very kinesthetic person and want to actively do things with my hands, so I think surgery is what I want to do. I have signed with the Army for the Health Professions Scholarship Program, so I will hopefully be an Army surgeon, or even something as cool as a flight surgeon, fingers crossed. Sydney: I honestly am not sure. Every time I shadow a new specialty, I want to do that. Going into undergrad, I was thinking anesthesiology because of my dad. Although, during undergrad I volunteered on a hematology/oncology floor and was certain I was going to do oncology, and now, after working in a gastroenterology office, I am thinking of internal medicine. How do you envision your future as a doctor, what would be your most special qualities you would contribute to your career, and what special assets would you bring to the table? Samantha: I think that I’m an incredibly approachable person, extremely motivated and can think quickly on my feet. I don’t just want to be a physician, I want to be the best physician for my patient, and that necessitates that I’m constantly evolving. The only thing that I’m really sure about my future as a physician right now is that I will always continue to learn, no matter the specialty, environment or patient. Sam: I would like to think I am a humble guy with a small-town mindset. As far as how I may go with my profession, I will always be able to relate to ‘normal’ people better
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than most others with professional aspirations like my own. For the Kirtland students out there, intelligence is worthless without knowledge and nothing good comes without work. You need to put in the work to make things happen, but it’s really not as hard as it sounds. It just takes consistency and the decision to make things happen. Sydney: Though I may not be sure exactly how my path in medicine will turn out, after working at a syringe access program, I know I would like to somehow work with underserved communities. Secondly, after dealing with thyroid cancer, I realized how privileged I was as a patient and how impoverished and minority communities do not receive the same quality of care as I did. If I am working to improve the quality of care for the underserved in a couple years, regardless of my specialty, I know the path I chose was correct.
Historic Kirtland Nativity Display Now in its 17th year, the the Historic Kirtland Nativity Exhibit display will feature 600 nativities from 50 countries — mostly loaned or donated by local collectors – at the Historic Kirtland Visitors’ Center of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. The free display is open daily from 9 a.m. to 8 p.m. Monday through Saturdays and Sundays 1-8 p.m. at The Historic Kirtland Visitor’s Center, 7800 Kirtland-Chardon Road, through Jan. 6. It will be closed Christmas and New Year’s days. Free parking is available on-site.
The Kirtland Youth Soccer League (KYSL) board is comprised of a group of dedicated volunteers who manage a program of over 200 kids ages four to eleven years old. There are countless hours put in to managing all the details that accompany a youth sports organization and often it feels like thankless work. It takes a passionate person to keep showing up. It takes a person like Wendy Bak. Almost 7 years ago, Wendy became involved with KYSL when her two sons, Patrick and Daniel, were players in the league. The league needed help, and Wendy answered the call. Over the years she has thanklessly managed thousands of tasks - both large and small - but all adding up to make an unassailable difference for the organization. She managed tasks like picture day, team schedules, referee schedules, and our never-ending email inbox just to name a few things. And she kept doing it, even years after her sons had moved on from the league, because she loved working with kids and developing their love of the game. She cheered on every one of our players as though they were her own children. Wendy has a great love for the children here in her hometown. Wendy graduated from Kirtland High School in 1988. She has volunteered her time as a Cub Scouts Den Leader, at bingo, and with the music boosters program. During football season, you will find her selling 50/50 raffle tickets at home games. Wendy is most well known for her work at the community center. Wendy has run the Junior Olympics program for the last 10 years, and the Safety Town program for the last 14 years. With the conclusion of the fall soccer season Wendy will be leaving KYSL to spend more time with her teenaged sons and give back to our community in other ways. Her departure from our organization is bittersweet. We are saddened to see her go and will miss having her as part of the team. However, we are so happy to see Wendy enjoy spending this precious time with her family.
Wendy - On behalf of the KYSL board, and the hundreds of kids who have had fun and loved playing soccer because of your work – Thank you! You are truly a one of a kind. We are all better for having known you and wish you nothing but the best always!
Wendy with sons Patrick and Daniel
Sincerely, The Kirtland Youth Soccer League Board, Players, and Families
Kirtland Chronicle
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10874 Chillicothe Rd.| Kirtland, OH 44094 | 440-256-1226 MON–FRI 8:30AM - 5:00PM
Friday, December 13, 2019
was important for us to get people on the ball all the time. We felt if we could hit 28 (Carrico) behind the sticks we could win the game, from page 1 and we did a good job.” The defense was also sparked by 1stportions of several games, but every time head coach Laverde needed able bodies to team All-Ohio linebacker Kaleb Stevenson, 2nd-team offensive lineman Kristian Grman, step up, they did in superb fashion. The Hornets cruised safely through this kicker Mario Rodin and 3rd team All-Ohio deyear’s playoffs in machine-like fashion, using fender Joey Grazia. “I’m just so proud of these guys right a powerful running game of All-Ohio firstteam back Mason Sullivan and All-Ohio third- now,” Laverde said in the post game conferteam burner Luke Gardner. The duo provid- ence. “It was really great to win last year with ed a great inside-outside threat that nobody this bunch, but we lost some kids and needed others to step up for this season. These kids, has stopped. Against Ironton, Mason Sullivan gained 101 many of whom didn’t play much, if at all last yards on 23 carries, Gage Sullivan had 85 yards year, worked hard to earn this opportunity.” Coming into play in a huge way for Kirton three catches and 23 yards on three carries. QB Liam Powers hit on four of five pass- land was Gage Sullivan. After that first big play on their first posseses for 114 yards and even caught a pass for sion, it was third and 19 a very important seven from the 9-yard line. yards. Watch for the Under heavy presLouie Loncar and Kirtland Chronicle’s sure, Powers tossed a Joey Grazia each led the Football Championship high, arching pass toward defense with six tackles Commemorative Edition the left sideline. total; Anthony DeMarco Jan. 10, 2020 Sullivan turned in had five, and Mike Alfieri front of the defender to had four, including a 12yard sack. Mike Rus had a sack for six yards. his back shoulder, reach out with one hand Loncar set the tone for the Hornets de- and controlled the ball for a 20 yard catch that extended a drive that led into the second perifense earlier. Several times after Kirtland proved it od, where Mario Rodin booted his 21-yard field would not allow the rush to prevail, Ironton goal on the third play for that 10-0 lead. With 7:33 left in the third period, Powers was forced to pass. As the Ironton QB consistenly rolled right, Loncar was able to run him found him just inside the pylon in the front of down from behind to force either an errant the end zone and Sullivan outleaped a pair of defenders for the ball on an 18-yard scoring throw or a late throw. Loncar’s special game has bigger signifi- play, and the 17-0 lead felt more solid. Another key moment of the game could cance for his family. With three brothers who previously had have made things worse for Kirtland. With second left before halftime, Ironton’s been part of state title winners under Laverde, winning his second title in two years Gage Salyers hit Jordan Grizzle deep over the middle for a 60 yard play, with a pair of Horhit home for Loncar. “I’m just so proud of this team,” Loncar nets finally dragging him down at the two yard said. “To go 30-0 is a great accomplishment, line with 37 seconds left before halftime. Kirtland has moved into elite company and but it’s also so great for our family to have several of them now in our own family. It the same results can be expected for years to come. The family atmosphere Laverde has gives us a lot to talk about.” The defense in the first half was key. Iron- built in Kirtland will go on for a long time. “It means that we have unbelievable kids ton’s only serious scoring threat was stuffed on first and goal from inside the 1-yard line to and families that raise their kids to work represerve the 10-0 halftime lead for the Hornets. ally hard and don’t complain when they don’t “If we could shut down their running game, get a chance to play,” LaVerde said. “They we felt we could have a chance to control them,” just compete like heck every single practice for four years. You don’t go 30-0 over two defensive back Tommy Drazetic said. years without coming in as a ninth grader Rus was in total agreement. “Those guys were really big, bigger than and working your tail off for four years and any team we faced this season,” Rus said. “It competing hard every day in practice.”
Council from page 1
months and years, many of us have engaged in a spirited debate and conversations,” he said. “This process, I believe, has cleared the path for Kirtland’s future. I look forward to working with our department leaders and council members to begin to shape and mold an even better Kirtland. We will work together to lead in efforts that the taxpayers of Kirtland have told us are important.” Potter said he would seek improved communication between city leaders and residents, as well as “thoughtful and unemotional dialogue.” “We have our challenges, no doubt,” Potter said. “We have failing roads and we are in a tough financial position. We have senior
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and community recreation needs. Our commercial tax base needs an infusion.” The city’s assets, said Potter, are “an excellent council, capable department heads and many talented residents (who are) ready and willing to serve.” Potter said he would name a Road Paving Task Force comprising “resident professionals” and, with council’s help, create an Economic Development Roundtable. “In regard to our city’s finances, as I mentioned, we have challenges,” Potter said. “But if we approach these challenges with an open mind, we can begin to think and do, and responsibly set our sails to take us in the right direction. We will not be afraid to have tough conversations, and if needed, make hard choices. We live in one of the safest communities in Ohio. I look forward to working with our police and fire chiefs in keeping it that way. I’d like to reiterate the appreciation I have for the position I was elected to and the responsibility that comes along with it. The only promise I’ll make is, I’ll tirelessly work to find better solutions for our city and I will do so in a way that keeps city council informed and the community engaged.”
Kirtland Chronicle
Friday, December 13, 2019
Kiwanis Korner
SUBMITTED
Front row, left to right: Jerry Bartels, Jerry Hartigan, Don Bokanovich, Steve Romelfanger, Fran Raishart, Bill Mraz, Richard Steudel, Charles Bickart. Back Row, left to right: James Fuller, Dave Broadwater, John Bodmer, Keith McCrory, Larry Conner, Jim Emch, Rick Blum, Cary Whalen. Not pictured Dennis Brandt, Al Taddeo.
T
he Kiwanis Club honored our Kirtland veterans at the Nov. 14 meeting at the Kirtlander. President Russ Di- Submitted by emer opened the meetWilliam Wright ing with a quote from Bernard Malamud: “ … without heroes, we are all plain people and don’t know how far we can go” to set the tone of the meeting held to remind everyone how much we owe to those who were willing to serve in our armed forces. The 18 veterans present each talked Page 8
with the club about their service, identifying the branch, their rank and dates of service. The speaker, Kirtland police officer and veteran Al Taddeo, talked of his time growing up in the Italian neighborhood of Murray Hill and how so many of his buddies enlisted to defend the country in WWII. They were proud to be Americans and willing to fight for its survival. Kirtland American Legion Post 609 Commander, Keith McCrory, talked of the growth of the Post in the past few years, going from just a few members to now over 50. KIRTLAND CHRONICLE
KIRTLAND Hornets nest
Friday, September 8, 2017
Fall Sports ButtNew and Coach Taking Names Hornets OffAlready to Good Kicking Start Under
BY STEVE HARE y VARSITY teve OHIO .COM are
B S H O hio V arsity .com CROSS COUNTRY
the win over Grand Valley. “She was definitely in an offensive mindset,” Zele said. “She put in some extra work before practice going over our plays. She was just in attack mode. She had great drives, great passes and she was just hitting everything.” Equally encouraging, the rest of the Hornets seem to be understanding the new offensive scheme Zele implemented. “They actually ran our plays,” Zele said. “Our posts are very eager to attack so we’re getting them to slow down and allow the cuts to happen. That’s where we’re getting our assists, from our post players letting everything develop and we’re not turning the ball over because we’re getting open.” Kirtland’s boys basketball and wrestling teams get started later this month.
Kirtland’s cross country team is off to a fast start this fall with a strong showing at the Berkshire Early Bird Invitational on Aug. 26 and an even better performance at the 2017 Frank Gibas Invitational at Kenston High School on Sept. 2. “There were many big improvements from last week and overall improvement as a team,” said Kirtland coach JP Moran. “It was a big race by freshman Julie Namciu and the top three boys were all in the 18s. The girls were all 24:00 or below. That’s very good for us. We’re working on closing our gaps in the top seven and all moving up so we can have low numbers and a tighter pack.” Namciu finished the race in 22:41, good for 58th place. Sophomore Lauren Snyder finished 29th with a time of 21:23 while her sister Sydney Snyder was 37th in 21:38. Junior Emily Crebs (24:02), freshman Mateja Mr va (24:42), freshman Aimee Baldrey (24:45) and senior Holly Samf (25:10) also competed for the Hornets in the girls’ race. Junior Konnor Duncan paced the Hornets in the boys’ race. He finished 45th with a time of 18:31. Senior Colton Zanko wasn’t far behind as he finished 49th with a time of 18:37. Junior Jake Grdadolnik (18:56), junior Nick Briggs (20:29), sophomore George Shuppe (20:52), freshman Jonny Jackson (21:33) and freshman Ian McGreal (21:43) also competed.
Kirtland’s girls’ basketball team is off to a strong start under new coach Brittany Zele. The Hornets opened the season with a 45-42 win over Division I Chardon in the 2019 CVC vs. WRC Challenge at North High School on Nov. 23 and bounced back from their first loss of the season—to Division II Perry—with a 58-28 win over Grand Valley in the home and conference opener on Dec. 4. Kirtland converted 10 free throws in the second half of the win over Chardon. “I am a big believer in taking advantage of free points and looking at stats from last year and what we saw in the preseason, this was something we needed to focus on and we have,” Zele said. “This team truly believes in one another and that’s why when we needed to hit those free throws; they delivered.” While the Hornets used a balanced offenJake Neibecker ran for touchdowns of 51 and 57 yards for the Hornets. sive attack against Chardon, sophomore ReilFOOTBALL Kirtland’s rushing game hit its stride sidelined in Week 2. ly Greenlee a career-high points in Kirtland’s footballscored team opened the 2017 early this20 season. Mike Zeuli stepped in for Fulco and season with a 14-13 win at Chagrin Falls on Aug. 25. The Hornets weren’t at their best and spent the next week focused on limiting their mistakes. They responded with a 49-14 win over visiting Columbia on Sept. 1. “We’re trying to get better every day,” said Kirtland head coach Tiger LaVerde. “We’re not where we want to be. We want to be playing our best football in November. I thought Week 1 to Week 2 was a great improvement on both sides of the ball.”
The Hornets ran for 423 yards in the season opener and 362 against the Raiders. Jake Neibecker, who had touchdown runs of 51 and 57 yards against Columbia, leads the Hornets with 224 rushing yards and two touchdowns. Joey Torok has rushed for 217 yards and two scores and quarterback Dylan Fulco is third on the team with 187 yards and one rushing touchdown. Kirtland has been bitten by the injury but with Fulco missing some time against Columbia and kicker Sanjay Sundararajan
Community Center
Santa on a Firetruck
Dec 14 • 11:30 a.m. to 1 p.m. Watch Santa parade south down state Route 306 on a Kirtland Fire Truck. Parade steps off from Kirtland High School at 11:30 a.m. and ends at City Hall. Spectators should sit on the west side of Route 306 or on City Hall property. Join The Big Guy at City Hall, snap a picture, enjoy face painting and grab some popcorn and hot cocoa. Caroling at noon. Stop by the Kirtland Library and make a holiday craft. Event is free. Drop off pairs of new socks for the NEO Coalition for the Homeless.
threw for 93 yards and a touchdown and also ran for 52 yards and a score. Freshman Mario Rodin was a perfect 7for-7 in extra point attempts. “That freshman kicker, he’s money,” LaVerde said.
GOLF Kirtland’s golf team moved up to Division II this fall but the Hornets haven’t skipped a beat.
STEVE HARE, OHIOVARSITY.COM
The Hornets already have beaten league rivals Berkshire, Cardinal and Independence and have continued to play consistently throughout the first half of the season. Senior Michael Schnur is well on the way to collecting his fourth straight league MVP award, but his own teammates might have something to say about it first. Adam Mueller and Jack Dever have pushed Schnur to play his best, regardless of the event or quality of competition. See Hornets w Page 11
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Kirtland Chronicle
Friday, December 13, 2019
Garden Club Swag Sale Dec. 14 Submitted The Garden Club of Kirtland will offer holiday swags for sale at Kirtland City Hall, 9301 Chillicothe Road on Saturday, Dec. 14. The sale will take place after the Santa parade, which begins at Kirtland High School
at 11:30 a.m. and ends at Kirtland City Hall. As one of the garden club’s beautification projects, members make the holiday swags that decorate the street signs as well as decorate city hall and council chambers. For more information or to join, call Marilyn at 216-313-0416.
Kirtland Library The Kirtland Public Library is located at 9267 Chillicothe Road. The library will be open Sundays from 12-4 p.m. starting Sept. 9. Please note that the library will be closed Dec. 24-26 for the holiday. For more information about any of these programs, please call the library at 440-2567323 or visit www.kirtland.lib.oh.us.
Make A Gift
Dec. 5 • 3:30 p.m. Kids in grades K-12th, make two gifts, complete with wrappings and gift tags. Your Christmas list will be well on its way to being complete. Please call the library to register.
Movie Night
Dec. 11 • 3:30 p.m. Join us to watch a PG holiday movie (runtime 1hr 43m) and snack on some popcorn. For those in grades 6-12. Please call the library to register.
Santa on a Firetruck
Dec. 14 • 11:30 a.m. Stop by the library to make a holiday craft and play games after watching the parade and visiting Santa at City Hall. For families of all ages. No registration required.
LEGO Club
Dec. 28 • 2 p.m. Get creative with the library’s LEGO bricks and afterwards put your masterpiece on display. For children up through sixth grade. No registration required.
Noon Day’s Eve Party
Dec. 31 • 11:30 a.m. Celebrate the New Year early at the library. Come play games, create a craft and enjoy refreshments as we count down to 12 p.m. For families of all ages. Please call the library to register.
Looking Ahead: Reading Resolutions for 2020
A new year gives a chance to explore new things. In 2020, why not read some books you haven’t considered reading before? Expand your bookish horizons and try something different. Here are some suggestions to get you started: • Read a book written by someone under the age of 35: Tea Obreht, Trevor Noah. • Read a book in a series: Louise Penny’s Inspector Gamache mysteries; Michael Connelly’s Detective Harry Bosch series. • Read a book by a local author: “The Dead Key,” by D.M. Pulley; “The Secrets Between Us” by Thirty Umrigar. • Read a true crime book: “The Ghosts of Eden Park: The Bootleg King, The Women who Pursued Him, and the Murder that Shocked Jazz-Age America” by Karen Abbott; “American Predator: The Hunt for the Most Meticulous Serial Killer of the 21st Century” by Maureen Callahan. • Read an award-winning book: “The Testaments” by Margaret Atwood; “Homegoing” by Yaa Gyasi. • Read the book of a movie you love: “Silver Linings Playbook” by Matthew Quick; “Shutter Island” by Dennis Lehane. • Read a book from a genre you’ve never tried: Science Fiction – “The Sparrow” by Mary Doria Russell; Fantasy – “Game of Thrones” by George R. R. Martin. • Read a book by an author of color: “American Marriage” by Tayari Jones. • Read an intimidatingly long book: “The Goldfinch” by Donna Tartt; “The Historian” by Elizabeth Kostova. • Read a graphic novel: “My Friend Dahmer” by Derf Backderf; “To Kill a Mockingbird” by Harper Lee and illustrated by Fred Fordham. • Read a book about mental health: “One Flew Over the Cuckoo’s Nest” by Ken Kesey. • Read a Staff Pick: Located on the table by the Circulation Desk. If you want more suggestions, call the Kirtland Public Library at 440-256-7323.
Friday, December 13, 2019
Help Wanted RESTAURANT: Bainbridge restaurant looking for pantry cook, part time dishwasher, full time hostess and a part time server. Call John 216-645-2946.
Kirtland Chronicle
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Classifieds FOR SALE
PETS & ANIMALS Border Collie Puppies, 8 weeks old on 12/19, mother on premises, ABCA registrable, $500-$750, call 440-318-4672 or 937539-0250.
SERVICES Offering special discounts for interior and exterior painting and staining this season. 18 years experience. Professional and insured. Call Dan, 440-342-4552.
WANTED TO BUY
Firewood – 4 feet x 8 feet x 16 inches, $100 cut/split/seasoned, free delivery, call 440-352-7372. Wedding Items: “Welcome to our Wedding” sign on easel $25, set of 4 garland with white roses and 10 strings of acrylic gems $30 for all, large round white tablecloth and navy blue accent tablecloth $25 , call 440-729-4134.
GARAGE/ESTATE SALES
Service Directory $ CASH $ $100 - $10,000 PAID
24/7 Service
Buying Cars, Trucks, Vans, Diesels, Old Cars and Junkers
Call or Text ZAC 440-679-7293
Kirtland Chronicle 440-729-7667
• CLASSIFIED DEADLINE IS FRIDAY • 440-729-7667 •
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Kirtland Chronicle
Friday, December 13, 2019