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Volume 12, No. 3
Friday, October 2, 2026
Police Welcome First K-9 to Force By Cassandra Shofar
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Coffee with Council Coffee with Council is Saturday, November 21 10-11 a.m., at Kirtland City Hall. For more information, contact Joe Smolic at 440-487-8984 or JSmolic@ kirtlandohio.com
cassandra@karlovecmedia.com
CHRONICLE
During a first-of-its-kind swearing-in ceremony Sept. 9, the city of Kirtland welcomed its newest police department member — a fourlegged canine with a penchant AND TL KIRand for detecting electronics comforting victims of violent crimes. K-9 Beacon, who excitedly stood near her handler, Detective Jake Scott, was administered the oath of office at the beginning of the Kirtland City Council meeting. Prior to the swearing-in ceremony, Scott officially introduced Beacon, an electronics-detection dog trained at the National Computer Forensics Institute in Hoover, Ala. “In 2024, we began very aggressively investigating crimes against children that occurred in this city and in adjacent counties and cities. And in a significant case that happened in this city, we asked for a neighboring agency who had an electronics-detection dog to assist us with execution of a search warrant,” Scott said. “So, a result of that ask, we had a partner, K-9 Indiana entity on scene missed. That case Bones, come join us. And on that resulted in that person going to day, Indie did find a cellphone that prison for 20 years. That was a sigevery police officer, every special nificant success in part to a really agent and every law enforcement unique tool at the end of a leash.
SCREENSHOT
Assistant to the Mayor Julia DeWolf administers the oath of office to K-9 Beacon, with handler Detective Jake Scott, during the Sept. 9 Kirtland City Council meeting. Beacon is the police department’s first K-9 and is specifically trained in electronics detection.
“The nose that these dogs have that finds drugs, finds explosives, is also able to find a chemical that’s in pretty much every cell phone, computer, storage device, very similarly, too,” Scott added. “So, about 11 years ago, this became a thing. Dogs being trained on those chemicals, dogs assisting law enforcement.” The U.S. Secret Service, which operates the NCFI, determined the Kirtland area needed another K-9,
and that K-9 would be here, Scott said. “So, in August, after approval from the chief, meeting with the mayor safety committee, we accepted that offer and I went to the National Computer Forensics Institute in Hoover, Alabama, where Beacon and I then completed our training as a team after she had already completed several months See Beacon• Page 2
Kirtland Public Library page 4
Kirtland Schools page 10
Classifieds page 11
Girls Soccer Thriving as September Ends By Alan Kornspan sports@karlovecmedia.com The Kirtland girls soccer team continues to play strong soccer as September comes to a close. Heading into October, the Hornets have compiled a 10-3 record. Kirtland has played some of its best soccer during September, scoring plenty of goals while also facing several challenging opponents. The Hornets’ two September losses came against Cardinal Mooney, 1-0, on Sept. 8 and Willoughby South, 2-1, on Sept. 22. Against South, the Hornets fell behind 2-0 in the first half before scoring a goal to cut the deficit to one. Kirtland continued to pressure the Rebels throughout the second half but was unable to find the equalizer.
Head Coach Ed Bradac said the game against South was a good test for his team and provided a strong indication of where the Hornets stand. “(We responded well) in the second half, got a goal, and obviously continued to put pressure on them and almost had a couple of opportunities towards the end to try and tie the game,” Bradac said. The Hornets moved the ball well throughout the contest, creating several opportunities to score. Senior captain Lexi Vosicky was pleased with how the Hornets responded after falling behind early. “I think we went out pretty strong, but we definitely went out a lot stronger in the second half,” Vosicky said. “It got way more intense as the game went on for sure, and See Girls Soccer • Page 2
ALAN KORNSPAN/KMG
Junior Johnny Scalish shot an 80 at the OHSAA Sectional Tournament on Sept. 22 at Quail Hollow to qualify for the OHSAA District Championships.
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Friday, October 2, 2026
Kirtland Chronicle
Congratulations Anthony Maniche!
SUBMITTED
So incredibly proud of Kirtland High School Sophomore and eighth-year 4-H member, Anthony Maniche, for an amazing week at The Great Geauga County Fair! Anthony earned Grand Champion, Best Pygmy in Show, second place Showmanship Sweepstakes, and many other special honors. All his hard work, dedication and countless hours truly paid off. We could not be prouder! With Love, Your Family
Kiwanis Korner By Kathy Talty The Kiwanis having been busy with the beginnings of the replacing the fence of the historic South Cemetery, which is located on Chillicothe Road. The Kiwanis had their annual Putt-Putt game with a fabulous win by Karen Dudgeon, Kiwanis member Kevin Dudgeon’s wife. The Relay of Life thanked the Kiwanis Club for once again supporting them. The
Kiwanis International and the Ohio District sponsored the Positive Affirmation Program held at the Kirtland Elementary School. This event was a great success and showcased Kirtland Schools’ fantastic program, which is also being shared with other schools in the Northeast Ohio. Queen Bee quote: Friends listen, love, are kindly truthful, and always there for a big bear hug.
Candidates’ Night Set for Oct. 14 The Lake County League of Women Voters and the Deloris C. Parsons Endowment Fund is hosting the annual Candidates’ Night Oct 14 at 7 p.m. It will be held at the Kirtland Elementary School, 9140 Chillicothe Road, in the historic Hornet Hall Auditorium. Local candidates this year are running for the offices of: State Representative 57th District, two Lake County commissioner seats (all four will be coming.) Also, two renewal levies will be discussed: Kirtland Schools and the Kirtland Community Center. This is a great opportunity to learn who and what is on the ballot. This event will be live at this web link wwwkirtlandschools.org/CandidatesNight2026.
Beacon from page 1
of training specifically to detect that chemical, triphenyl phosphine oxide, and then also some other chemicals that are going to be present in those devices,” Scott said. Beacon will also serve as a source of comfort for victims and families of victims of violent crimes, the detective added. “Being able to sit with them while we have those interviews where we asked them to relive the worst thing that could have ever happened,” he said. “So, as you saw Beacon walk in here today, or bounce in here, she’s very excited. She has had a very slow, boring day, but she is a friend to all.” Her name represents her roles, Scott said. “Beacon is for beacon of hope, in memory of a good friend of mine, and I hope she
Girls Soccer from page 1
I think definitely both teams battled really hard. It was just unlucky.” Vosicky said Kirtland tried to use the entire width of the field during the second half, frequently moving the ball to the outside. Bradac said playing larger schools such as South and Cardinal Mooney provides the Hornets with valuable competition. “In every game we have been in, it's been competitive,” Bradac said. “I always look at the fact that teams like South are Division II, we're Division V, we're a much smaller program in terms of what we bring to the table, and these kind of games, against the Willoughby Souths and Cardinal Mooneys, will make us better as we hope to get far in the OHSAA tournament.” Despite the setbacks against larger schools, Kirtland's offense has continued to produce throughout the season. September began with an 8-1 victory over Open Door Christian. Junior Olivia Pickens led the Hornets with four goals. Following the 1-0 loss to Cardinal Mooney, Kirtland won three consecutive games, defeating Madison, 5-0, Perry, 3-1, and Rootstown, 7-1. After the 2-1 loss to South on September
can be that beacon of hope to people on their worst day here,” Scott said. “She started working here a couple weeks ago getting comfortable. We’ve had some call outs for some crimes that you don’t think maybe she would be involved in and we are going to be continuing to do our work both in the city and with our partners throughout the region. So, with that, I really appreciate the support of council the support of the residents, my family and the department.” Scott said the department would welcome donations of food, snacks and toys and would put together a wish list. Julia DeWolf, assistant to the mayor, then administered Beacon’s oath of office, to which Beacon affirmed by happily accepting a treat from Scott. “Welcome, K-9 Beacon,” DeWolf said, drawing applause from officials and those in attendance.
22, the Hornets responded with a 9-1 victory over Crestwood. Bradac said he evaluates the season in four-game segments. He noted that the Hornets have gone 3-1 in each of their four-game stretches, allowing them to avoid prolonged stretches without a victory. Vosicky said those winning stretches have helped build the team's confidence. “The season has gone pretty good,” Vosicky said. “We have had pretty good solid winning streaks. I think that's helped us build our confidence. Also, we're starting to get really good in the midfield and connecting passes better.” Vosicky has also been encouraged by the team's improvement in ball movement and maintaining possession. Bradac has been particularly pleased with Kirtland's defensive play, pointing to the performances of goalkeeper Katherine Bradshaw and defender Kylie Sayle. “We've played 12 games, we've given up 11 goals,” Bradac said. “We have done a nice job there (on defense).” Bradshaw has recorded 65 saves on the season, while Delaney Kothera has also made 65 saves. Pickens leads the Hornets' offense through the first 13 games with 43 points on 13 goals and 17 assists. Gabby D'Amato has 29 points on 10 goals and nine assists, followed by Vosicky with 25 points on eight goals and nine assists. Cici Slomo has 12 points on five goals and two assists, while Maia Fini has 10 points on four goals and two assists. Danika Schaum has nine points on three goals and three assists, Anna Dumstorff has eight points on three goals and two assists, and Morgan Brunetti and Abela Delgado each have four points on two goals. Bradac said he has been pleased with the way the Hornets have played as a team, particularcly the contributions coming from throughout the roster. “We're moving the ball, we're generating chances on goal, and ultimately I am pleased with how we're playing, but we can certainly play better,” Bradac said.
Kirtland Chronicle 440-729-7667
Friday, October 2, 2026
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Kirtland Chronicle
A Note from the Mayor I know I’ve talked a lot about what an lice Force with traffic control and monitoring. amazing community we live in, but last Watching runners and walkers work toward month, I experienced several very poignant the finish line, being cheered on by our police moments that captured the spirit of this town officers and Councilman Joe Smolic, it was so very well. another one of those moments when I said On Sept. 18, I stood with my family at to myself, “We really just live in an incredible the corner of state Route 306 and the mid- community.” dle school driveway. Basking in the brightThis community charity event is the brainness and sunshine of a mid-September af- child of my wife, Jeni. For months leading up ternoon, lined up on the sidewalks from the to the event, in the midst of her full-time job middle school drive to Joseph Street were and running a household, Jeni Potter worked hundreds of Kirtland students, parwith race sponsors, race coordinaents, grandparents, neighbors and tors, volunteers and our municipal friends, all gathered to view the staff to ensure the event is an allKirtland High School Homecoming out success. This year, a very large parade. As I watched one parade group of individuals and businesses group after another walk, or ride donated toward the event, directing in cars or on floats along 306, the all proceeds to the Kirtland Area cheers and excitement cast from Service Council. the sidewalk crowd toward smilThe service council is a group Mayor ing and beaming students and pathat has served Kirtland area resKevin Potter rade participants, I was awestruck. idents and students for many deIt is hard to explain the moment, but for a cades by assisting folks in need with food, second or two, I felt as if I was back in time utility payments, holiday dinners and more, witnessing a snapshot in Norman Rockwell’s all while assuring the recipients maintain mind just before he took to his drawing pa- their anonymity and just as importantly, their per. The simplicity and pride that pervaded dignity. I can’t say enough about the small in that small-town American moment struck but mighty group of women that run the Kirtme with great wonderment. How am I — no — land Area Service Council. how are we so blessed to live here and to be In closing, thank you to all the race spona part of this? sors, volunteers (especially Karla Kozak), Two days later, in a bit of contrast to that Kirtland Kiwanis, Kirtland police and Kirtsun-washed Friday Homecoming parade, on land Public Works Department for their a mist-filled Sunday morning, more than one tremendous effort that made the Shamrock hundred runners and walkers came to com- Shuffle and Shenanigans 5K another great pete in the Shamrock Shuffle and Shenan- success and demonstration in community igans 5K event. Once the contestants took giving and pride. to the race route, I had an opportunity to assist (using assist lightly) our Kirtland PoMayor Potter
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Friday, October 2, 2026
Kirtland Chronicle
Kirtland Public Library The Kirtland Public Library is located at 9267 Chillicothe Road. Hours are Monday-Thursday from 9 a.m. to 8 p.m.; Friday-Saturday from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. For more information about any of these programs or to register, please call the library at 440-256-7323 or visit www.kirtland.lib.oh.us.
October Youth & Adult Programs Steve Hare Author Talk
Oct. 3 • 2:30 p.m. “Built by a Community: How the Kirtland Girls Soccer Team Became a Champion” tells the remarkable story of how a small-town soccer program became one of Ohio's best. Drawing on more than a decade of firsthand coverage and exclusive interviews with players, coaches, parents and supporters, sportswriter Steve Hare chronicles Kirtland's journey from a fledgling program in 2003 to its historic 2020 Division III state championship. Filled with behind-the-scenes stories and personal reflections, the book is a celebration of perseverance, leadership, community and the people who built a championship legacy.
Cricut Design Space: Tote Bags
Oct. 5 • 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. (by appt.) Create a custom tote bag with the help of our Cricut. All supplies will be provided by the library. To register, please contact the reference desk to reserve an hour-long techone-on-one slot. This program is intended for teens (13+) and adults.
Cricut Design Space: 3D Paper Pumpkin Luminaries
Oct. 26 • 4 p.m. Learn the basics of Cricut design in this luminary workshop. All supplies will be provided by the library. Registration required as space is limited. This program is for all ages; kids under grade 6 should bring their favorite adult.
October Adult Programs Knit & Crochet
Oct. 5 • 6 p.m. Oct. 20 • 6 p.m. Drop in and get hooked with our knit and crochet club. Bring your own supplies and en-
joy an evening of creating and chatting with fellow crafters.
Monarchs
Oct. 6 • 6 p.m. Welcome to the world of the beautiful monarch butterfly. Learn about the monarch’s life cycle, host plant and amazing migration. See a butterfly and chrysalis (hopefully) up close and personal and find out what you can do to help the monarchs. Join the Ohio State Master Gardeners for this fun program. Registration required.
Tech One–On-Ones Wednesdays
Oct 7, 14 & 21 • 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. (by appt.) Do you need help navigating a new app? Do you need assistance with using your smartphone? Do you have a question about your laptop or tablet? At a tech one-on-one, the Kirtland Library Tech Trainer can help you with questions you may have about technology. To register, please contact the reference desk to reserve an hour or half hour long tech-one-on-one slot.
Adult 3D Design: Pumpkins & Ghosts
Oct. 7 • 4 p.m. Using Tinkercad, we'll design a pumpkin and ghost figurine. This program is designed for beginners; no prior experience is needed. Registration is required. Prints will be ready to be picked up 1-2 weeks after the program.
Murder in The Stacks
Oct. 9 • 2 p.m. Come solve a Halloween-themed murder with us. Each participant will play a character, follow the clues, and try to catch the murderer. Please make sure you can commit to this event as we need 10 players for the murder mystery. Registration required; space is limited.
Chair Yoga
Oct. 12 • 2 p.m. Gentle chair yoga led by Anne Owens. All levels welcome to this free event. Please register.
How Money Works in Retirement Talk
Oct. 13 • 6 p.m. How Money Works in Retirement will
focus on understanding strategies to make money last and invest for the future. We will also briefly discuss estate planning, including creating a legacy. Space is limited for this free event. Please register.
How Medicare Works
Oct. 19 • 6 p.m. We will review the A, B, C and D of Medicare. Understanding the rules, options and how to make an informed decision when it comes to Medicare Health Insurance Plans. Please register.
Pumpkin Garland Craft
Oct. 22 • 6 p.m. Sign up for a fun fall craft at the library. We will be making a pumpkin garland. All supplies provided, but registration is required.
No Pressure Book Discussion
Oct. 26 • 1:30 p.m. Ready for some new book suggestions? Bring any suggestions for good books you have read and get some new ideas too. Bring a bagged lunch if you like. Just drop in; no registration required.
Cookbook Club
Oct. 27 • 6 p.m. Want to expand your kitchen skills? Every month, we cook up a new dish from a different theme. Bring your own place setting and beverage and the dish you prepare. Please sign up for more information. For this month, we will be making comfort dishes. Make a recipe for the group to share and come to sample what everyone else has made.
Cleveland’s Naughty Parts: True Tales of Vice, Sin and Bad Behavior Author Talk with Jim Sweeney
Oct. 29 • 6 p.m. Jim Sweeney will regale us with tales from his newest book, “Cleveland’s Naughty Parts: True Tales of Vice, Sin and Bad Behavior.” This is a light-hearted look at everything from Prohibition rumrunning to cheating in walleye tournaments, from political corruption to poetry bans.
Used Book Sale
Nov. 7 • 9:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. The Friends of the Kirtland Public Library are hosting their quarterly book sale at the library. Small bags are $5 and large bags are $8. Cash and credit card are accepted. Head to the back door to find some treasures.
October Youth Programs Weekly Events Lapsit
Tuesdays • 10 a.m. Bounces, rhymes, one book, scarves and shakers, geared for families with children under the age of 3. No need to register.
Storytime
Wednesdays • 10 a.m. Enjoy great books, rhymes, songs, and surprises with your child. This storytime is geared for families with children aged 5 and under. No need to register.
Special Events Toddler and Preschool Dance Party
Oct. 9 • 10:30 a.m. Families with children aged 5 and under, spend half an hour dancing with your child. You both will get a workout. We will use fun props such as scarves and shakers. Please register.
Teen 3D Design: Pumpkins & Ghosts
Oct. 12 • 4 p.m. Using Tinkercad, we'll design a pumpkin and ghost figurine. This program is designed for beginners; no prior experience is needed. Registration required. Prints will be ready to be picked up 1-2 weeks after the program.
Harry Potter Butterbeer Kitchen Lab
Oct. 14 • 6:30 p.m. Teens, celebrate the season by concocting your own butterbeer as in the Harry Potter series. Will your butterbeer be better than the Three Broomsticks? Please register.
LEGO Club
Oct. 17 • 10:30 a.m. Families, spend an hour building with the library's LEGO bricks. Once you have completed your creation, you will place it on display until the next LEGO Club. Registration required.
Teen Apple Slices with Toppings
Oct. 20 • 3 p.m. Youth in grades 6th and up, learn a bit about knife skills as you slice an apple. Then you will arrange those slices on your own plate and explore our toppings arrangement to complete your snack. Please register.
Meet Me at the Library
Oct. 23 • 10:30 a.m. Families with children age 5 and under, come meet other new friends as you explore the activities. What will you find this month? Please register.
Halloween Town Center
Oct. 24 • 4:30-7:30 p.m. Join us at the city-wide event for fun Halloween-themed games and candy in front of City Hall. No registration is necessary.
Halloween Book Bash Open House
Oct. 28 • 5:30 p.m. Come for some spooky fun. Dress in costume, play games, make some crafts. No tricks, just treats here at the library. Registration not required.
Friday, October 2, 2026
Kirtland Chronicle
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Hornets Nest By Alan Kornspan sports@karlovecmedia.com The Kirtland Hornets girls cross country team recently competed in the Cardinal Invite on September 26 at Cardinal High School. Competing against 13 teams, the Hornets finished first, defeating Berkshire by five points. To win the Cardinal Invite for the second consecutive year, Kirtland's top five runners all finished the 5K in under 21 minutes. The Hornets' top five runners averaged 20:13. Leading the way for Kirtland were Kylie Sayle (19:10.60), Anna Hill (20:17.90), Mila Delgado (20:19), Danika Schaum (20:30.50) and Nadija Mrva (20:51.80). Sayle was pleased with her performance, recording a personal record and one of the fastest 5K times in Kirtland school history. Her time ranks third all-time in the school's record book. “I am happy with my PR at Cardinal and am glad I got to race with some fast girls across a couple divisions,” Sayle said. The Cardinal Invite victory was another strong performance during a successful season for the Hornets, who are currently ranked seventh in the state in the Ohio Track and Cross Country Coaches Association poll. Kirtland also won the Mentor Cardinal Classic on September 5, defeating Hudson by an average time of 48 seconds. All five of Kirtland's top runners finished among the top 20 individually. Sayle led the Hornets with a second-place finish in 20:00.34, followed by Mrva in eighth place at 21:21.30. Schaum finished in 21:28.23, Hill in 21:34.26, and Delgado in 21:40.43. Sayle also captured an individual title at the Kenston Invitational with a two-mile time of 11:54.70. With the Hornets approximately halfway through the season, Head Cross Country Coach Dr. J.P. Moran reflected on the team's progress. “This season got off to a great start for
Kirtland Cross Country,” Moran said. “The girls team has had a great month of September, earning team hardware at four different invitationals. They are state ranked and running extremely well and have a nice pack that has helped secure team and individual hardware so far this season. “We couldn't be happier with how the first half of the season has gone, and now will focus on mid to late October to chase our goals and dreams at CVC and postseason.” Sayle said the team continues to improve as the season progresses. “The season is going very well as people continue to get faster, and I am excited to see what we will be able to do going into the postseason,” she said. Moran also said the Kirtland boys team has continued to improve throughout the season. “The boys team keeps consistently improving, and guys continue to improve their personal best times,” Moran said. “We have a nice group of eight boys who can all score when needed, and we are working on getting everyone to run their best in October!”
Hornets Volleyball Continues Strong Season
The Kirtland Hornets volleyball team has also enjoyed a strong season and enters the final week of September with a 13-2 record. Kirtland went 7-2 during September, with a match against Rootstown remaining on September 29. Five of the Hornets' seven September victories came by 3-0 sweeps, while the other two were 3-1 victories. The Hornets swept Wickliffe, Rootstown, Lakeside, Lutheran West, and Crestwood, while defeating Chagrin Falls and Chardon, 3-1. Senior Ellie Spencer has led Kirtland offensively, averaging 3.4 kills per set. Seniors Karli DiFranco and Matea Vujica are each averaging two kills per set. The three seniors have combined for 419 kills this season, with Spencer leading the
way with 196. As a team, Kirtland has recorded 568 kills through 15 matches. Strong setting has helped fuel the Hornets' offensive production. Seniors Adriana Grman, Adalyn Kruger, and Bria Golem lead Kirtland in assists with 253, 162, and 63, respectively.
Hornets Football Rolls Through September
The Kirtland Hornets football team continues to put together a strong season and enters the final week of September with a 5-1 record. After falling to Perry, 31-10, on Sept. 4, Kirtland has won three consecutive games. On September 11, the Hornets defeated Rootstown, 50-7. Kirtland gained 277 yards on the ground against the Rovers. Ben Loncar led the way with 75 rushing yards, followed by Zander Perko with 64, Tommy Caimi with 48 yards and two touchdowns, Matt Russ with 44 yards and a touchdown, Sebastian Becker with 24 yards, Brayden Yates with 18 yards, and Bryson Rader with five yards. Loncar also completed 3 of 5 passes for 26 yards and two touchdowns. Senior Mario Lorber caught both touchdown passes. Kirtland continued its strong rushing attack on September 18 against Conneaut, gaining 455 yards on 42 carries in a 48-0 victory. Caimi led the Hornets with 140 rushing yards and two touchdowns, while Perko added 132 yards and two touchdowns. Russ rushed for 78 yards and a touchdown, Yates had 39 yards, Becker had 32 yards, and Rader added 26 yards and a touchdown. The Hornets closed out September with a 45-3 victory over Chagrin Falls on September 25.
ALAN KORNSPAN/KMG
Kylie Sayle ran 19:10.60 to lead the Hornets to victory at the Cardinal Invite for the second consecutive year.
Kirtland gained 291 yards on the ground and 42 yards through the air against the Tigers. Caimi led the rushing attack with 123 yards and three touchdowns, followed by Perko with 62 yards and Lorber with 40 yards. Lorber also caught three passes for 42 yards and completed one pass for seven yards. Freshman quarterback Griffin Gabriel made his second consecutive start due to an injury. He completed 2 of 3 passes for 35 yards.
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Kirtland Chronicle
Friday, October 2, 2026
Hornets Golf Goes 13-1; Scalish & Kothera Advance By Alan Kornspan sports@karlovecmedia.com The Kirtland Hornets golf team enjoyed an outstanding season, finishing the regular season with a 13-1 record and winning the CVC Valley Division championship. Kirtland closed out the regular season with five consecutive victories before turning its attention to postseason competition. On Sept. 14, the Hornets won the CVC Valley Division Boys Golf Tournament. Leading Kirtland to the conference championship were Nick Nead and Johnny Scalish, who each shot 83, followed by Ryan Green with an 85 and Chase Sedlak with a 90. The following day, senior Maggie Kothera won the CVC Girls Chagrin Division championship with an 86. Scalish said the Hornets' success was a result of the team's chemistry and the enjoyment the players shared throughout the season. “We just had a great team,” Scalish said. “We were all so connected. We focused on having fun.” Kothera also enjoyed the season and the team's chemistry. “The season has been super fun,” Kothera said. “We have a great team. I am sad that it is over.” In postseason competition, the Hornets competed in the OHSAA Boys Golf Sectional Tournament on Sept. 22 at Quail Hollow in Concord. At the boys sectional, Scalish led the Hornets with an 80 and qualified individually for the OHSAA District Championships at Windmill Lakes on Sept. 29. Scalish got off to a strong start, shooting even par through his first six holes. Although he had several errant shots later in the front nine, he was able to refocus and avoid allowing one bad shot to affect the next. Scalish said Head Coach Sam Kless has helped him develop the mental approach necessary to remain focused after an errant shot. “I just listen to what my coach says,” Scalish said. “Take a deep breath and just remem-
ALAN KORNSPAN/KMG
Junior Johnny Scalish shot an 80 at the OHSAA Sectional Tournament on Sept. 22 at Quail Hollow to qualify for the OHSAA District Championships.
ber who I was doing it for. I was doing it for my team and my teammates.” Scalish also started the back nine well. When he encountered more difficult shots, he again focused on the next shot rather than dwelling on his mistakes. One of the key moments in his round came after he topped a drive. On his next shot, Scalish hit a strong 3-wood that rolled onto the green, allowing him to two-putt for par. For Scalish, the key to handling pressure is maintaining his composure and not allowing one mistake to turn into additional lost strokes.
“(I) just (left) it in the past and focused on the next shot,” Scalish said. After completing his round, Scalish was excited to learn that he had qualified for the district championship. Also helping the Hornets to a fourthplace team finish at the sectional were Nead with an 81, Green with an 83, and Sammy Ridgeway with an 85. Kless said the team played well at the sectional but fell just short of qualifying for the district championship as a team. A few days later, Kothera competed in the OHSAA Girls Golf Sectional at Punderson.
She finished third with an 86 and also qualified for the OHSAA District Championships. The Hornets' successful season resulted in several individual honors. Nead was voted CVC Player of the Year after posting a 37.4 nine-hole scoring average over the team's 14 regular-season matches. In addition to Nead earning Player of the Year honors, Green, Ridgeway, Scalish, and Sedlak were selected to the CVC All-Conference team. Kless was also recognized for the Hornets' successful season, earning CVC Coach of the Year honors.
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Pictured, from left, are Rick Poulton, Marcia Copeland Hudson and Bob Flinta from the Kiwanis International and District.
Pictured, from left, are Greg Bell, Mary LaVerde, Bob Race, Bob Scott, Miss Godina, Chad VanArnhem and Jamie Filla during the Kiwanis District and Lake Effect Division of Ohio Positive Affirmation Program Sept. 23 at Kirtland Elementary School.
Kirtland Kiwanis Event Highlights Wellness By Kathy Talty The Kiwanis District and Lake Effect Division of Ohio hosted the Positive Affirmation Program at Kirtland Elementary School in the historic Hornet Hall Sept. 23. Kiwanis Lt. Gov. Kathy Talty and Kiwanis Ohio District Gov. Marcia Copeland Hudson made the introductions. The keynote speaker was Rick Poulton, Kiwanis International Children’s Fund president, who traveled from Chicago for the event. Poulton spoke about how Kiwanis serves children around the world, from helping tackle iodine deficiency to providing tetanus vaccines in developing countries. He was also impressed with the program in place at Kirtland Local Schools and wanted Kirtland, as well as other schools in Ohio, to know that grants are available to help initiate and continue supporting wellness programs in schools. The presentation continued with Kirtland Elementary School staff. Principal Missy Godina and Guidance Counselor Jamie Filla presented Sources of Strength, an evidence-based strategy promoted by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention that uses peer leadership. They also discussed Brain Breaks and sensory rooms. From Kirtland Middle School, Principal Bob Race and Guidance Counselor Greg Bell discussed the school’s whole-child focus, including the use of exercise equipment and interactive games. They also described efforts
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to make school fun, including a pancake breakfast grilled by Race himself, as well as surveys for students and parents to help provide the best emotional and academic environment. At Kirtland High School, Principal Mary Pat Pavcic and Guidance Counselor Mary LaVerde further explained Sources of Strength, a strength-based, upstream approach to preventing negative outcomes while promoting well-being, help-seeking, resilience, healthy coping and a sense of belonging. They also discussed ways the school connects students with their peers, including the “We Belong Club & Activities,” with the help of Key Club and Peer Review. Superintendent Chad VanArnhem, said, “It was a privilege to have our staff share the Kirtland Local Schools story with Kiwanis and members of our broader community. Our presentation highlighted our district's commitment to educating the whole child, with a strong focus on wellness. Research consistently shows that physical movement enhances both learning and behavior. “Our educators go above and beyond to build meaningful relationships with their
students. From physical health to emotional well-being, our district offers comprehensive programs that support our children and young adults at every stage. “These beliefs are modeled by our staff and deeply rooted in our district’s culture.
Combined with high-quality instruction, this holistic approach has driven five consecutive years of academic growth alongside steadily improving attendance rates." Please email kktalty@gamail.com for a copy of this recorded event.
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Kirtland Chronicle
CHUCK BICKART/KIRTLAND KIWANIS
From left, “Students of the Month” Liam Conant, of KES, Chloe Farnell, of KMS, and Lila Ruggeri, of KHS.
October Students of the Month The Kirtland Kiwanis “Students of the Month” for October 2026 are fifth-grader Liam Conant, of Kirtland Elementary School, seventh-grader Chloe Farnell, of Kirtland Middle School, and ninth-grader Lila Ruggeri, 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.”
Seniors Legacy Planning
Nov. 10, 6 p.m. It's never too early to start planning to leave your legacy. Grace Himmelright of How Money Works will be at Kirtland Public Library, 9267 Chillicothe Road, to explain how you can set aside money for a nonprofit in your will. We will also have a representative from the Deloris C. Parsons Endowment Fund on hand to expound on their organization and how donations to their fund benefit the library.
Habitat for Humanity Celebrates 100th Home STAFF REPORT Lake-Geauga Habitat for Humanity is nearing completion of its 100th home while searching for a military veteran to serve as the candidate for its next home project in Geauga County. The organization also has an interim executive director as its board of directors searches for a permanent leader. Kate Burke began serving as interim executive director Sept. 5 at the organization’s Eastlake office, according to a press release from Marketing Manager Noelle Burke Kuson. “This transition will not impact ongoing construction projects, home repairs, volunteer opportunities or ReStore operations,” Kuson said. Meanwhile, the search is on for a military veteran who qualifies for a new home to be built in Geauga County, Burke said in a phone interview Sept. 17. The organization is also seeking land on which to build the home. Applicants do not have to currently live in Geauga County, she said. “They just have to want to live in the beautiful Geauga area,” Burke said. The Habitat home currently in the final stages of construction is located in Eastlake
and is expected to be dedicated later in 2026, she said. The last Habitat home built in Geauga County was completed in 2024 in Chardon, Burke said. Burke’s transition to interim director follows the departure of Executive Director Chad Collins, who completed five years of service with the organization, Kuson said in the release. Collins served in several leadership roles, including ReStore director, interim executive director and executive director. “We are grateful for Chad’s years of service and commitment to Habitat’s mission,” said Juliana Petti, chairwoman of the Habitat board of directors. “We are equally confident in Kate’s ability to guide the organization during this transition.” Collins expressed his appreciation for the staff, volunteers, donors, board and community partners who have supported Habitat’s work. “The future is bright for Lake-Geauga Habitat, and I look forward to watching the organization continue to grow and serve families throughout our community,” he said in the release.
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here have been a lot of amazing things taking place at the Kirtland Local Schools. The Ohio Department of Education and Workforce released the 2025-2026 state report cards for both individual buildings and districts. While we all understand that a truly outstanding school system is defined by much more than just a report card, it does provide us with valuable insights into our students’ achievements. The Kirtland Local School District has been awarded a five-star rating, the highest attainable recognition! Our overall Performance Index is also at its highest point in over a decade – a remarkable accomplishment that places us in the top 6% of all school districts in the state. Out of 607 school districts in Ohio, Kirtland has gone from a ranking of 84th, 56th, 45th, 41st and now 36! This achievement is a testament to the dedication of our students, staff, and community.
Since 2020, our scores have continued to increase on state tests, ACT, SAT and AP tests too. This is truly a momentous achievement, and I couldn’t be prouder of our collective efBy Chad VanArnhem, forts. Superintendent I want to extend my deepest appreciation to all our students, staff, and community members for their role in making this success possible. Your unwavering support and commitment to our school district have played a pivotal role in this outstanding achievement, as well as educating the whole child. Kirtland Elementary School students and staff recognized our local heroes on Patriot Day. Our first responders were invited to lunch, were written cards, received posters, high fives, hugs and were cheered on as they drove their vehicles around the back of the school. A huge thank you to all of our first responders! The Kirtland Local Schools will have a renewal levy on the November 3, 2026, ballot. This fixed-sum levy was last renewed in 2022 for a 5-year period. Approval of this renewal levy would continue to generate $2,280,000 annually without resulting in a tax increase to homeowners. This amount makes up around 12% of the total budget of the school district. The last new operating levy was approved in 2012. Scan the QR for access to the Question and Answer Levy Document. The Classes of 1976, 1977, 1994, 1995, 1996 and 1997 were welcomed back for guided tours as they celebrated their reunions. Many laughs, hugs and great stories were shared amongst our alumni. The next “Coffee & Conversations with the Superintendent” will be on October 27th at 8:00 a.m. at Honey’z. Thank you for your continued support, and go Hornets!
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Kirtland Chronicle
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Friday, October 2, 2026