Middlefield Post 1-21-2026

Middlef ield POST

Community News from Middlefield, Parkman, Huntsburg and Surrounding Areas

Cardinal School Board OK’s Certified Staff to Carry Guns on Campus

By ann Wishart ann@karLovecmedia com

In a 4-1 vote, Cardinal Schools Board of Education passed a resolution Jan. 14 allowing two qualified employees to carry firearms on campus, said board President Linda Smallwood in a Jan. 16 phone interview.

The employees will not be identified for security reasons, Smallwood said.

Both have completed required training and have been certified to carry weapons on school property during regular school hours, athletic events and other school activi-

ties, she said.

The decision followed the loss of the district’s school resource officer, who had been assigned through the Middlefield Village Police Department but was no longer funded by a grant, Smallwood said.

“(The officer) was wonderful,” Smallwood said, adding the absence of an SRO had been felt in the district.

Although there have been no threats or incidents of violence, she said parents have expressed concern about not having an officer immediately available.

During the Oct. 22, 2025, regular meeting, members entered ex-

ecutive session for security reasons and consulted with the district’s attorney about allowing qualified employees to carry firearms in place of an SRO, Smallwood said.

Since that discussion, two employees completed state-required training and all necessary paperwork, she said.

The board held another executive session during the Jan. 14 meeting because one board member had been absent during the earlier discussion and newly elected board member Edna Phile, who was sworn in that evening, needed to be briefed on the issue, Smallwood said.

Board members Phile, Smallwood, Barb Rayburn and Ruth Natali voted in favor of the resolution. Anita Marlowe voted against it, though she acknowledged other school districts are adopting similar security measures.

“I voted against it out of a personal conviction. I don’t think there is a place in the school for guns,” she said in a Jan. 18 interview.

She said she believes it could be difficult for an employee to balance educational and security roles and that it presents a potential safety risk.

“I also feel it could increase

See Guns • Page 2

Maple Syrup Pours Out Sweet Success

Expert Cautiously Optimistic About Upcoming

By Brandon Lichtinger editor@karLovecmedia com

As prime maple-sugaring season approaches, local producer Aggy Sperry recently reflected on bringing home two international awards last fall for syrup she makes with the Gingerich family under Gingerich Brothers and Sperry LLC.

At the North American Maple Syrup Council and International Maple Syrup Institute meeting in Port Huron, Michigan, from Oct. 22-25, Sperry’s medium amber and very dark syrups each earned firstplace prizes. Sojka-Sperry’s syrup has garnered nearly 30 awards over the last 25 years.

For Sperry, the craft of making maple syrup — and the community that surrounds it — sweetens every aspect of life.

“I love everything about it (maple syrup making and culture),” she said in a recent interview.

Sperry’s maple-syrup journey began in childhood, after her family moved from Richmond Heights to Chester Township.

One of eight children, she and her siblings helped local farmers after school at one of the five sugarhouses within walking distance of

Season

their home. Her involvement deep ened as a young adult when she met her future husband.

Mark Sperry, then an attorney, worked on Main Street in Chardon and would stop in to talk maple syrup with Aggy — then Aggy Soj ka — at the building she owned on Chardon Square.

They eventually started dating and Sperry surprised her with a visit to his family’s sugarhouse in Middlefield on their second date.

Aggy from page 1

Sugaring remained central in their lives after marriage and in 1975, they began hosting maple syrup-themed parties at their sugarhouse, a tradition that continues today.

Around the same time, the Sperries partnered with the Gingerich family, starting with Dan, then his brothers Jonas and John, followed by Jacob and David, and now a third generation: Davy, Michael and Matthew.

“The partnership is unusual,” Sperry said, describing a close-knit operation that feels like family. While the Gingeriches handle the bulk of production and sales, Sperry focuses on marketing, using her gift of gab and love of people.

Through connections made at her annual maple parties and in the community, the sugar makers have supplied syrup to local food producers, restaurants and other businesses. Their syrup is also available at Kurtz Discount Groceries in Middlefield and at the sugarhouse itself at 16949 Shedd Road.

Sperry celebrates syrup’s versatility in everyday recipes and seasonal treats.

“I use it in everything and I substitute it (for other sweeteners),” she said. “I hardly ever use sugar.”

Her church, Pilgrim Christian Church in Chardon, uses her syrup at pancake breakfasts and she has developed a popular maple puff popcorn recipe shared with family and friends.

Besides sugaring, Sperry, 85, stays active through international travel with Friendship Force International, a foreign-exchange program for adults. She recently returned from Egypt souvenirs from her travels adorn her home in Chardon.

“I dance to my own music,” she said. Yet, maple syrup remains her priority.

“I don’t travel during sugaring, which runs from January through March or April,” Sperry said. She works at the sugarhouse every day during boiling seasons and drives her Amish partners home each evening.

Sperry and the Gingerich Brothers plan to tap 6,000 taps this year. She credits Geauga County’s land and climate for her recent victories.

“The trees and the soil (in Geauga Coun ty) are conducive to making good syrup,” she said. “When we win in Geauga County, we should toot our horns.”

Les Ober, maple syrup producer and agri culture educator with The Ohio State Univer sity Extension office, agrees.

“You’ve got some of the best (maple) pro ducers in the country in this county. Aggy’s one of them,” said Ober in a Jan. 14 phone interview. “(She and) the Gingerich brothers do a tremendous job with syrup.”

Ober Honors Maple Syrup History, Looks Toward Upcoming Season

Ober, a certified agronomist who con sults with area farmers on a variety of crops, explained how Geauga County’s geography creates an ideal location for maple syrup pro duction.

“What makes Geauga County special is, number one, the elevation. Locations at 12,000 to 14,000 feet above sea level make a climate that’s suitable for maple produc tion,” Ober said. “We also have a lot of soil that has the right nutrition. Finally, you’ve got to have that freeze-thaw (process) which we get through the lake effect. We get cold weather that comes through, (combined) with the warm waters of Lake Erie, which creates a perfect climate, absolutely perfect. That’s why we’re the number one county in the state for maple production.”

big impact on production.

He also noted the county’s maple-syrup tradition dates back to early settlers from New England.

“When the settlers came here from New England, what they saw here reminded them of what they saw back there (in terms of a good environment to cultivate maple trees),” Ober said. “We have that tradition and people have stuck with it. People are really dedicated to what they do. They don’t give up on it and I hope the next generation sees that and continues to do what they do.”

Ober expressed cautious optimism for the upcoming sugaring season due to recent severe storms.

“A lot of woods and a lot of sugarbushes have been getting damaged in this county,” he said. “It takes 50 years for a tree to grow back and if you get enough damage, that’s a

“Another factor is the swings in climate,” he added. “If you get hot weather for a week (during sugaring season), that could put you out of business. The sap slows down or is not running through the tubing, the lines get filled up with bacteria and then you’ve got a problem.”

Ober researches maple production throughout Ohio, New York, Pennsylvania and West Virginia. He noted new technology may be the key to sustaining the industry.

“We’re finding technology that may overcome the problems (associated with climate fluctuations),” Ober said.

While sap is sterile when it comes directly out of a tree, when “you take that sap and expose it to the air, bring it down a line, move it from one tank to another, bacteria just takes hold,” he said.

“Once we figure out a way to combat bacteria from building, without chemical

additives, that’s going to be the solution to keeping maple production going,” Ober said.

For Sperry, unpredictable weather and evolving technology are simply part of the craft she’s practiced for 50 years.

“You’re dependent on the weather and there’s good years and bad years,” she said. “We’ve recorded dates and temperatures, all by hand, on a chart in the sugarhouse. And it’s fun to see because it’s not commercial, it’s personal.”

Her personal connection to the land, the trees and the people who make maple sugar has been central to her career, Sperry said, adding it also helps to live in a place perfectly suited to produce it.

“They haven’t hybridized maple syrup,” she said. “They haven’t mucked with it like they have corn, or beans and everything else. (Maple syrup represents) all the things we want, and that are good and happy in life.”

Guns from page 1

fear for students and staff knowing there are weapons in the school,” Marlowe said.

She also raised concerns about the risks to the employee carrying the weapon, the difficulty of keeping it concealed and the need for armed staff when law enforcement is located nearby.

“We have a police department a block and a half away,” she said.

Objections notwithstanding, Marlowe said the employees who completed the training are excellent choices for the job.

“As a board member, I support all board decisions,” she said, adding, however, her reservations remain.

“It’s like opening a can or worms,” she said.

The resolution took effect immediately, Smallwood said.

Town Crier

How Ohio Laws Are Made

Jan. 22, 6:30-8 p.m.

The League of Women Voters of Geauga will host a free public program, “How Things Work at the Ohio Statehouse,” at the Bainbridge Library, 17222 Snyder Road. Guest speaker Rachel Coyle will explain how bills are introduced, sponsored, heard and passed in the Ohio Statehouse, as well as the factors that influence legislative outcomes.

The nonpartisan program is open to the public, and admission is free. Registration is required by visiting www.lwvgeauga.org.

Maple Syrup Workshops

Jan. 24

Maple Producers of NE Ohio will host two workshops at Sugar Valley Maple Farm in Middlefield.

Backyard Maple Syrup will run from 8:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. and will cover the essential steps for making maple syrup, from tree tapping to boiling down sap into finished syrup.

Home Maple Confections Workshop will be held from 1:30-4:30 p.m. and will focus on the basics of making maple candy, maple-coated nuts, maple cream and maple sugar.

Registration for one or both workshops is available at MPNEOH.com.

Audubon’s January 100 Challenge

Blackbrook Audubon invites birders of all skill levels to help reach 100 bird species across Ohio during its annual January 100 community challenge. Sightings may be submitted through eBird or by email to blackbrookaud@aol.com, with combined results shared online.

Updates will be provided during the Fourth Sunday Bird Walk at 8 a.m. Jan. 25 at Veterans Park, 5730 Hopkins Road in Mentor. The challenge concludes Jan. 31, with a field trip to Cleveland Lakefront Nature Preserve.

LCGS Meets

Jan. 29, 10 a.m.

The Lake County Genealogical Society will meet at The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, 8751 Kirtland Road, Kirtland. The meeting will include induction of new officers and a program, “FamilySearch 201: Intermediate Topics,” presented by John Tracy Cunningham.

A book auction related to family history and a semi-catered luncheon by Mission BBQ will follow. Main dishes will be provided; members are encouraged to bring a salad

or dessert. Pre-registration is requested by Jan. 26 by emailing lcgsohio@lcgsohio.org. Guests are welcome.

For more information, visit online at www.lcgsohio.org.

Family

Dinner and Movie Night

Jan. 30, 4 p.m.

First United Methodist Church hosts its God Shares a Meal and movie night at the church located at 14999 South State Ave., Middlefield. Dinner is from 4-6 p.m., followed by a family movie at 6:15 p.m. For information, call 440-632-0480.

GCRTA Luncheon

Feb. 3, 11:15 a.m.

The Geauga County Retired Teachers Association will meet at Brown Barn Tavern, 10700 Mayfield Road in Chardon. Social time will be followed by the business meeting at 11:30 a.m. and a smoked pulled pork lunch at noon. The Kenston High School Varsity Jazz group will provide entertainment following the meal.

For information and reservations, contact Judy Miller at 440-487-4324 no later than Jan. 25. Please bring paper products or canned goods for the Geauga County Hunger Task Force. Consider bringing a retired teacher, school personnel or a guest to the meeting.

Bloodmobile

Feb. 5, 12- 6 p.m.

American Red Cross is hosting a blood drive at Middlefield Library, 16167 East High St., Middlefield. Visit RedCrossBlood.org or call 1-800-733-2767 to make an appointment.

Matter of Balance Class

Geauga Department on Aging and University Hospitals Geauga Medical Center are sponsoring Matter of Balance classes to Geauga seniors interested in improving balance, flexibility and strength and learning how to identify and control their fear of falling.

Class will be held every Wednesday and Friday, Feb. 4-27, from 1-3 p.m. at the Middlefield Senior Center, 15820 Ridgewood Drive, Middlefield. To register, call Melissa Wheeler at 440-279-2167. Class is free for all registered seniors.

Email community event submissions to editor@karlovecmedia.com for consideration to be published in a future edition of the Middlefield Post. Submissions may be edited for length, clarity, grammar and content.

karlovec group

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

Jeffrey B. Karlovec, Publisher • John D. Karlovec, Editor

Cassandra C. Shofar, News Editor

Jamie A. Ward, Sports Editor

Karen S. Kaplan, Graphic Design

Pamela J. Molnar, Production Supervisor

Clay Karlovec, Sales Representative

Clinton Sestak, Sales Representative

Amber Ballard, Sales Representative Regina Swinerton, Classifieds Emma McGuire, Paginator

Deadlines

• 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 Middlefield Post 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 Middlefield Post is distributed for free to homes and businesses in the Middlefield community. It is mailed through the U.S. Postal Service.

• Copies are also available at rack locations within Middlefield and surrounding communities.

• Produced by the Karlovec Media Group.

• 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 Karlovec Media Group assumes no responsibility of error contained in any pre-printed material delivered with the paper as an insertion therein.

• The Karlovec Media Group 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 Karlovec Media Group, 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 Karlovec Media Group, 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.

Help Support Middlefield Post, Local Journalism

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

The Middlefield Post stitches the communities we serve together. From news to in-depth coverage on topics that deeply affect the community, the Middlefield Post 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 strong local 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 five-time winner of Ohio Newspaper of the Year, 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 Middlefield Post.

Jeff and John Karlovec

Huskies Clamp Down, Capture Crucial Conference Win

By haLey adams sports@karLovecmedia com

The Huskies have made great progress in their season in the Northeastern Athletic Conference (Stars), starting their play out at 5-1.

They entered their Jan. 13 contest having dropped just four games all season. Three of their four losses came at the hands of non-conference opponents.

“It was a tough loss on Saturday against Garrettsville,” athlete Natalie Soltis said. “These last two wins have built our confidence back up, and hopefully we can continue that.”

It’s been a transitional season for the Huskies and three-year head coach Kim Domen, with a conference switch and starting lineup adjustments. But the Huskies have also found much success this winter, and last week was no different.

Junior guard Emily Pleva got the Huskies off to a hot start, knocking down a 3-pointer from Soltis.

With less than three minutes in the opening quarter, Soltis got around her defender and scooped and scored right before jumping the passing lane and getting an easy lay-up on

the other end. Her help stretched her team’s lead 7-2, prompting the Heralds to call a tim eout.

had a six-point performance in the first quar ter, as Soltis scored four. The Huskies out scored the Heralds 16-9 to start the game, behind a 13-0 run late in the quarter.

tone with the aggressive pressure up top,” Coach Domen said. “Emily Pleva anchored the middle, and Nova Young and Brynley Kitz miller read the back side while protecting the hoop. Their rotations and anticipation ignited everything we did on the defensive end, which caused transition offense for easy buckets.”

pressure as they outscored their opponent 20-7 in the second quarter. Soltis continued her hot streak to open the quarter when she got a step around her defender and stretched her team’s lead to 18-9. An answer three from Izzy Holler at the top of the key cut the lead to five. And right away, Kaminski was able to score two in the paint and add to her stat line.

half with 16 points, 10 points alone in the sec ond quarter. Soltis added four points, while See Basketball • Page 5

Geauga Public Library

MIDDLEFIELD BRANCH

16167 East High St., Middlefield, 440-6321961. Programs require registration unless otherwise noted.

Visit www.geaugalibrary.net.

Minute to Win It

Jan. 22, 4-4:45 p.m.

Test skills with family and friends by taking on fast paced challenges with just one minute to win it.

Seed Swap

Jan. 24, 10 a.m. to noon Start garden planning early by exchanging extra or unwanted seeds with fellow gardeners. No registration is required.

Library Led Discussion

Jan. 27, 7-8 p.m.

Discuss ““My Grandmother Asked Me to Tell You She’s Sorry” by Fredrick Backman. No registration is required.

Geauga SWCD Promotes Winter Salt Week

Geauga Soil and Water Conservation District is joining partners across Northeast Ohio to promote Winter Salt Week, Jan. 26–30, a national effort to raise awareness about salt pollution and encourage smarter winter maintenance practices. Strengthening Geauga County’s 2026 stormwater theme, “On the Road to Clean Water,” Winter Salt Week highlights the importance of working together to protect local freshwater resources.

Road salt that washes into lakes, streams and drinking water can permanently damage freshwater resources and infrastructure. Winter Salt Week highlights how communities and residents can reduce salt use while keeping roads and sidewalks safe through better snow removal, calibrated equipment and right-sized applications.

Free daily livestreams and educational resources are available at wintersaltweek.org.

Community Meetings

Listed are upcoming public meetings and executive sessions in Huntsburg, Middlefield and Parkman townships, the Village of Middlefield and Cardinal Schools. (Please note: These meeting notices are NOT legal notices.)

Huntsburg Township: Jan. 27, 6 p.m., Board of Zoning Appeals, organizational meeting; Feb. 3, 7 p.m., Board of Trustees; Feb. 17, 7 p.m., Board of Trustees. All meetings held at the Town Hall, 16534 Mayfield Road.

Middlefield Township: Feb. 9, 7 p.m., Board of Trustees. All meetings are held at Township Office, 15228 Madison Road, unless otherwise noted.

Middlefield Village: Feb. 10, 5:30 p.m. – Streets, Sidewalks & Utilities Commit-

Basketball from page 4

Young and Pleva added three and two points, respectively, in the second quarter.

Pacing the Heralds was Marissa Arrieta-Williams with 10 points. Holler, Milani Johnson and Alexa Jordan added two points each.

The Huskies led 36-16 at the half.

“Defensively, the last two games, with our press and half-court defense — our improved rotations have led to turnovers, and we consistently capitalized on those opportunities for points,” Domen said.

After three missed shots to start the third quarter, Young finally broke the scoring drought by splitting a pair of free throws. A strong push from Coach Domen’s team led to another timeout from long-time coach Nick Iarocci.

Despite a second timeout taken by Coach Iarocci, the full-court press and half-court defense proved too much.

Kaminski would live up to the hype, finishing with 26 points, nine rebounds and seven steals.

Pleva added 11 points, while Soltis pitched in eight.

Three other Huskies finished with five points, putting seven different Huskies in the scoring column. With a convincing 62-33 win, the Huskies improved to 10-4 and 7-1 in the NAC.

“Our game plan was to come out hot and play really good defense,” Kaminski said. “A lot of our points come from steals, and in our press, which helps a lot.”

“When we were working hard on our defense, it made it way easier on offense,” Soltis said.

Coach Domen elaborated on what she likes from the group so far: “Ivy has been at the forefront of our scoring, and with her goal of reaching 1,000 career points this season,

tee; 6 p.m. – Planning Commission; Feb. 11, 10 a.m., Tax Incentive Review Committee; Feb. 12, 5:30 p.m. – Recreation Committee, 6 p.m. – Finance & Ordinance Committee, 6:30 p.m. – Safety Committee, 7 p.m. – Village Council. All meetings are at the Municipal Center, 14860 N. State Ave.

Parkman Township: Feb. 3, 7 p.m., Board of Trustees; Feb. 17, 7 p.m., Board of Trustees. All meetings are held at the Parkman Community House, 16295 Main Market Road, unless otherwise noted.

Cardinal BOE: Feb. 11, 6:30 p.m., regular meeting; Feb. 25, 6:30 p.m., work session. All meetings held at BOE Office, 15982 E. High St., Middlefield, unless otherwise indicated.

it's always on her mind, and she's been stronger with the ball and more aggressive offensively. Natalie Soltis brings relentless energy; she never backs down, is always fighting for loose balls, and never hesitates to put her body on the line. Emily Pleva is the brains and focal point of the team, consistently reading the opponent's next move while also knocking down timely three pointers.

“While Nova Young has made noticeable strides on the boards, it's reflected in her numbers. She's more aggressive and can also penetrate at the hoop. Brynley Kitzmiller continues to be a presence down low on the glass. She may not be a primary offensive threat, but she always finds a way to score when you least expect it and never complains about anything. And Natalie Hardin has done a great job when called upon in the rotation, increasing her aggressiveness and continuing to make key buckets at unexpected moments.”

With their strong finish down the stretch, Cardinal was able to pick up a third win in three games. The Huskies won a wild finish against Jackson Milton on Jan. 14, 49-46. At that game, Kaminski paced the Huskies with 21 points, while Pleva and Young finished with nine and eight, respectively.

The Huskies have recorded 16, 18 and 17 steals in their last three games.

“The team's energy, communication and confidence have grown significantly over the past two years,” Coach Domen said. “They've matured, but they’re still playing with the same grit and determination. They are letting everyone know they won't go away quietly.

“It also helps that they've been playing together for quite some time now. Back-to-back games are always a challenge, but this group has clear goals and determination to reach them. As a coaching staff, we remind them to take it one game at a time, one quarter at a time.”

Faith Matters A Life that Never Ends

I stopped at the cemetery where my father and mother are buried in Solon the other day. It is hard to believe it has been 42 years since my mom died and 32 since my dad left us. One thing I know about life… it sure does move fast. My four brothers and I had an idyllic childhood growing up. We are blessed with abundant happy memories to cherish.

Dad and mom allowed us to pursue and discover life in many ways. We learned to work hard, plant gardens, produce maple syrup, chase our athletic dreams, go fishing and hunting, swimming, sled riding, ice skating and have fun competing in all sorts of games and contests. Our love for the outdoors kept us outside most of the day. We gained skills by hiking in the woods, swinging on wild grape vines and wading through the creeks.

more than 70 or 80 years. Of course, a few of us may manage to get into our 90s. No wonder the Lord encourages us to “fix our gaze not on what is seen, but on what is unseen. For what is seen is temporary, but what is unseen is eternal.” Moses prayed in Psalm 90:12 that God would “teach us to number our days aright, that we may gain a heart of wisdom.”

By Roger Kruse

My dad was born and raised on an 80acre farm in western Ohio. It was our usual destination for vacation and summer stays. We helped to bail hay and straw, learned to work the fields with a tractor as well as root out thistles with a hoe. We helped collect eggs, clean out the manure, cut and stack firewood and feed the livestock.

On Sunday mornings, we attended the Methodist church that my great-great grandparents helped to start up so many years before. Adolf’s local restaurant was always busy with the farmers and tradespersons gathering for a morning cup of coffee and conversation. Everyone knew each other.

Now my brothers and I all have grandchildren of our own. The experiences of life are much different these days compared to the 1950s and 60s. From my standpoint, the “good ole’ days” were rich in family life and wholesome activities. Nevertheless, every generation has its own unique time to flourish and enjoy the gift of life.

The danger for all of us is to live out our lives as if this brief time on earth is the “main event.” The Bible tells us not to expect much

According to the Bible, true wisdom begins when we cultivate a reverence, deep respect and awe of the Lord. In simple terms, that means having an authentic personal faith that leads us to live a life pleasing to God. Yet, it all begins when we recognize that God loves us and sent Jesus to die for our sins. When we believe and trust the Good News, God the Holy Spirit indwells our lives and we begin a dynamic life of transformation from the inside out. The Lord’s promise also includes the free gift of eternal life. We gain the assurance that when our earthly days are over, the best is yet to come. Death is a passage into a more blessed life that will never end.

All those from my dad and mom’s generation have now departed. Yet, when I take my last breath, I have no doubt that I will see many of them again. Heaven will not only give us our first glimpse of the living Lord Jesus, but also a renewed fellowship with those who died before us, while holding on to a true faith in Christ.

None of us knows when that day might come. Yet, we can make sure that our faith keeps leading us onward and upward. Like the apostle Paul, we will be able to say confidently, “I have finished the race, I have kept the faith.”

Roger Kruse hopes to be around for a good while here in Middlefield. The blessings of life and faith give joy and purpose to each day. However, when the Lord calls, he will begin a new heavenly chapter of eternal life in the glorious presence of God.

Geauga SWCD Holds Poster Contest

suBmitted

The National Association of Conservation Districts (NACD) has proclaimed April 25 through May 6, 2026, as Stewardship Week, marking the 71st year of the national event. In celebration, Geauga Soil and Water Conservation District is sponsoring a poster contest with the theme, “Soil. Where it all Begins.”

The purpose of the contest is to encourage in youth a connection to the important benefit of protecting soil and water resources.

The contest is open to all students in grades K-12 from public, private or home school settings. The 2026 theme must be included. Digital entries are open to grades 7-12 only. Posters must measure 11-by-17 inches, created by an individual student, rather than a team of students. Scanned hand

drawn entries in png/jpeg format will be accepted; digital submissions must be clear and well-framed.

Two additional options are available: an inclusive Braille Poster Contest for blind and low-vision students in grades K-12, and an Additional Assist Poster Contest for students who may benefit from extra assistance.

Entries are due May 29 and must be submitted to Geauga SWCD, 12611 Ravenwood Drive, Suite 240, Chardon, or emailed to Katie Nainiger at knainiger@geauga.oh.gov.

First- and second-place prizes will be awarded in each grade category: K-1, 2-3, 4-6, 7-9 and 10-12. First-place winners advance to state competition, with the potential to move on to nationals.

For information and contest rules, contact Geauga SWCD at 440-834-1122 or www. geaugaswcd.com.

Cardinal Top Spellers

Real Estate Transfers

Following is a list of area real estate transfers for the week ending Jan. 9, 2026, and period Jan. 12-14, 2026, provided as a public service by the Geauga County Auditor’s Office. Transfers may involve the sale of land only.

HUNTSBURG TOWNSHIP

Maria Noffsinger (TOD), 15661 Windmill Point Road, to Thomas and Michaelanne McClurkin, $330,000. (1.61 acres)

Harold and Judith Barnes, Burton Windsor Road, to Roy E. and Barbara Byler, $6,000. (0.95 acres)

Daniel G. and Terri Jo Martin, 12030 Princeton Road, to Windsor Road Land LLC, $355,600. (3.03 acres)

Princeton Property Holdings LLC, 12496 Princeton Road and Princeton Road, to Huntsburg 12496 Realty LLC, $7,000,000. (26.86 acres)

MIDDLEFIELD VILLAGE

NVR Inc., 15259 Woodsong Drive, to Allan L. Fritsch, $300,000. (0.21 acres) NVR Inc., 15405 Oak Hill Drive, to Robert Szoke, $379,300. (0.25 acres)

PARKMAN TOWNSHIP

Beard Custom Construction & Design LLC, 17222 Reynolds Road, to Darlene Beard, $302,900. (58.19 acres)

FOR RENT

Middlefield: approx 1200 sq ft. 2BR, laundry hook-up, garage, non-smoking, no pets. Security Deposit. 440636-2853 or mjtdyes@gmail.com.

Burton: Large 1 BR apt with den, laundry room, large garage, AC, private patio. No pets. $1,050. Call 440221-0649.

Middlefield Village rentals: 3BR house downtown. No lawn-work. Newly updated. Also, 3BR home in desirable location, with space for entertaining, fenced backyard, attached garage. 440-632-0480.

FOR SALE

Two double-hung Provia replacement windows: combined dimensions 75 7/8 X 53 5/8. Perfect for a front window $500. 440-336-5044 George. Custom sizes & shapes available.

Vintage Baby Buggy: $65. 440-487-2955. Honda HRX217 Plower: great shape, would cost about $800 today new. Yours for $250. 440-548-2414. FinishPro II 395 Graco Sprayer $2,000/OBO. QEP Professional Tilesaw Mod 60010 2-hp $150/OBO. Mercury 200 outboard, needs coil, make offer. 440-272-5736. Anchor Brand Folding Bench Wringer Floor Stand: 48” tall, Patent 1896, $240. 440-554-5731.

Sauna: EC, $250/OBO. Chipper and Shredder: can chip up to 4” branches, have owners manual and extra set of teeth, $650. 330-980-5540, Middlefield.

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

Classifieds

Lithograph Prints, signed personally by the artist: Robert Bateman “Midnight Black Wolf”. Carl Brenders “Monarch Eagle” and “Full House Boxes”. Call for pricing. 440-729-0070.

Fine China, plates, bowls, cups, dessert plates, demitasse, gravy, creamer, platters, and more, place setting for 12+, English Garden pattern of blue flowers with silver rim, only $120, call/text for pictures 440-668-8768 Newbury.

Teeter Inversion Chair: Excellent Condition, $250. BowFlex Max-5 Elliptical $650. 440-548-7631 or 440669-7666. Parkman, Oh.

Hammond Organ A-100, Leslie Speakers 21H and 31H. PR-40 tone cabinet. Looks and sounds great, never gigged, no smoke. $4,750. 440-856-3946.

RECORD ALBUMS, Old Cameras, HO Train items, large granite counter-top pieces, fresh/salt water aquariums, old clocks, kerosene lamps. Inquire. 440-338-3563. Russell.

Seven MAD Magazines: between 1698 and 1971. $10 each or take all for $50. Call for details. 440-883-9056.

Massage Table: holds 300 lbs, w/head rest and bolster $150. Home Gym: w/5 DVDs and all attachments, like new, hardly used $350. Call Vicki 440-286-6878.

VINTAGE WWII RADIOS: need new home, radios are complete, working status unknown. For details email DBAKSA1517@GMAIL.COM. Hallicrafters Patterson 1942 Naval Aeronautics Transmitter.

Nursery Infant Scale-$6. Honda CRV floor mats-$8. Vintage metal tricycle-$15. George Foreman Grilling Machine-$10. 440-346-7708, leave msg.

For sale - 4 sheets 5/8x12 drywall. $10 a sheet. 440632-3173.

Used 38’x50’ blue tarp, $40. 440-548-5801 or 216387-8994.

PETS & ANIMALS

RINGNECK PHEASANTS - FLIGHT CONDITIONED: Cock birds $20. Hens $15. Propagation permitted farm. Rome, Oh. 440-387-9857.

Gray 6 month old tuxedo cat needs indoor home. Neutered, vaxxed, very sweet but shy. Great with other cats. Call Rebecca 440-321-2485.

MISCELLANEOUS

FREE advice to Parents: talk to kids re drugs BUT—LISTEN! Don’t lecture! Ask questions. Listen! Build bridges, not walls.

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 and SAVE BIG! 57k. 440-596-2608.

karlovec group 8389 Mayfield Road, B-5 Chesterland, OH 44026 Fax: 440-729-8240

RENTAL WANTED

Professional mural and fine artist seeks a live/work studio rental. Preferably cabin-type home. Clean, quiet, respectful. Ready for move in now. Call or text 440-9156486.

SERVICES

Will do CHILD CARE. Years of experience. References. 440-313-1804.

AM Rides LLC: Reliable transportation for Amish crew hauling, cleaning crews, hunting trips, auctions, and towing. Safe, insured and on time. Airport trips also available. Call Craig: 330-431-8282.

WANTED TO BUY

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

To advertise in the Classifieds, contact the advertising department at 440-729-7667 ext. 500 or email your ad directly to ads@karlovecmedia.com

CLASSIFIED DEADLINE:

All classified line ads run in The Geauga County Maple Leaf on Thursdays, and in the Chesterland News and Middlefield Post on the weeks each newspaper is published. The Chesterland News and Middlefield Post are published every other week on opposing weeks.

I am a PAID MAPLE LEAF SUBSCRIBER entitled to 25 WORDS or less FREE each week. (Words over 25 will be billed at 50¢ per word.) NO BUSINESS ADS. Please include subscriber number ___________ (found on mailing label) ☐ I would like to be a MAPLE LEAF SUBSCRIBER and advertise for FREE. Enclosed is $60 for an in-county 12-month subscription

12/31/26)