Letters to the Editor
Strong Leadership for Chester
Throughout Geauga County, we are blessed with some amazing and dedicated local elected officials. From our mayors, to our township trustees and beyond, we have so many people that truly care about making our communities a better place to live, work and raise our families.
This election cycle, Chester Township is lucky enough to have five great candidates vying to be our next township trustees. While I usually don’t endorse in local races, as a proud Chester resident, I feel compelled to voice my strong support for Robert Rogish Jr.
I’ve had the privilege of being friends with Bob for several years, but even more important, I’ve had the opportunity to interact with him on many issues vital to our community.
From his position as Chair of the Geauga Soil and Water Conservation District to his active involvement with groups like the Geauga County Agricultural Society and the Geauga County Planning Commission, Bob constantly and consistently advocates for our community, on both the local and the state level.
His community involvement runs deep and his passion for our township is obvious and needed.
For these reasons, and so many more, I hope you will join me in voting for Robert Rogish Jr. for Chester Township Trustee on Nov. 7.
State Rep. Sarah LaTourette
Chester Township
Newsworthy?
On page 3 of the Oct. 12 issue of the Maple Leaf, a news article ran with this headline, “Geauga Sheriff Stands by NFL Edict.” In it, Geauga County Sheriff Scott Hildenbrand defends his decision to forbid his employees to work off-duty at Cleveland Browns games because he disapproves of the way 21 players knelt during the National Anthem on Aug. 21.
I write, not to argue the sheriff’s point, but to argue the Maple Leaf’s choice to run an article like this about him.
In fact, if I were Sheriff Hildenbrand, I would be offended by the coverage. Not only is the news of the edict dated, doesn’t the sheriff handle more important decisions and situations?
I avidly read local and national news and find it disappointing the Maple Leaf has chosen to present the sheriff as a hero over this worn-out topic (complete with a color photo!)
His views on the Browns’ protest and his edict restricting off-duty work at the stadium bears no effect on county residents and very barely falls under his job description, which is clearly articulated on the sheriff’s webpage.
In addition, the sheriff is quoted as saying “only three or four deputies have been providing security inside the stadium.”
Where is the story? Does the sheriff stand by anything else?
The Maple Leaf called the sheriff for this article. They should have focused on a different issue. Here are some articles I would love to see in print:
- “Geauga Sheriff Stands by Troubled Youth”
- “Geauga Sheriff Stands by Those Fighting the Opioid Crisis”
- “Geauga Sheriff Stands by Foster Children, Victims of Domestic Violence, Victims of Gun Violence (insert resident group in need here)”
I want to stand by my county sheriff. I hope you do, too.
So, Maple Leaf, please do away with “news” stories like this one and give us something substantial to read about Sheriff Hildenbrand’s work in the community.
Kristin LeFeber
Auburn Township
Keep Hambden Moving Forward
I am retiring at the end of 2017 and it has been an honor and privilege to serve the residents of Hambden Township for the past 46 years, 36 of those years as your township trustee, and 10 years on the zoning commission.
During that time many improvements have been made. We have one of the best road systems in the county due to a strict timely resurfacing program. Equipment is replaced on a regular basis, which helps with efficient and timely snow and ice removal, and patching of roads where needed.
Land use planning has kept the township a desirable community to live in.
Improvements have been made to the park, cemetery and town hall. We have always had a balanced budget and have not asked the taxpayers for many levies to continue our exemplary services to our residents.
It is important to keep the progress moving forward. With the retirement of Nadine Pope, Scott Yamamoto has been appointed to serve the remainder of her term as Hambden Township Trustee.
Scott Yamamoto has taken on the duties without pause and his 15 years of county government experience has given him the ability to understand township government and what it means to be a “public servant.”
Scott Yamamoto is up to the task of solving problems and communicating with the proper entities and people to make sound decisions. He will find sound resolutions to any problems that occur in the township.
Since his appointment, Scott Yamamoto has taken on all of the responsibilities of a veteran trustee; attending budget hearings, budgeting for road and bridge projects and plowing snow in the absence of an injured employee. He has been an active member of the community since moving here, planning and implementing the Hambden Township Farmers Market, involvement in the annual community picnic and other volunteer activities.
Scott Yamamoto has the motivation and energy to serve the residents of Hambden Township. He will continue to work hard and do what’s right, so that you will be proud to live in Hambden Township.
Please join me in voting for Scott Yamamoto on Nov. 7 to keep Hambden Township moving forward into the future.
Edward W. Kaminski
Retiring Hambden Township Trustee
Time is Right in Auburn for New Talent
As an avid participant in the civic process since early adulthood, I always look for opportunities to learn about my local government. Unfortunately, my experience while attending and observing Auburn Township trustee meetings has convinced me that the incumbents seeking reelection regularly engage in behavior contrary to promoting civility, civic pride and a positive learning environment.
Because I am having difficulty understanding how their behavior furthers the guarantees of the U.S. and Ohio Constitutions, and the guidelines of Ohio Revised Code, I will explain why I endorse Kerri Lynch Quay and Brian M. Richter for the two Auburn trustee terms running from 2018-2022.
I have known both of these individuals for several years and personally attest that both of them are of sterling moral and ethical character with a genuine desire to improve their community.
Both individuals have extensive professional training. Mrs. Quay has experience in both the educational and legal fields while Mr. Richter has been an assistant prosecutor for both Geauga and Medina counties for much of his career.
Both are parents dedicated to the public school system. Both have demonstrated independent thinking, flexibility, patience and great organizational and analytical skills.
Both Mrs. Quay and Mr. Richter have been generous in donating their time and talents as volunteers working with local teenagers, Mrs. Quay as a social advocate and Mr. Richter as an athletic coach.
It is particularly critical to laud Mr. Richter for his prosecutorial role on behalf of Granger Township. The Ohio Township Association dedicated one of its quarterly magazine issues to Mr. Richter’s victory in the litigation known as “Apple v. Granger Township,” a landmark case that has insured protection of township zoning.
Most importantly, both Kerri Quay and Brian Richter are dedicated to improving township government efficiency and transparency while holding the line on taxes.
As some readers may know, a number of discouraged Auburn residents have already left the community through abandonment of their residences or bank/tax foreclosures, leaving a bigger burden for the rest of Auburn residents. Having seen the incumbents in action for over a dozen years, I am thrilled to vote for Kerri (Karen) Quay and Brian Richter for Auburn Trustees on Nov. 7.
The time is so right for their new talent to pull Auburn Township out of its mediocre malaise.
Diane J. Jones
Auburn Township
Munsons’ Best Choice
Who to vote for is a dilemma for many people, especially for voters like me who aren’t up on politics. But, in this election I can assure you, of the four candidates running for Munson Township Trustee, Andy Bushman deserves your vote the most.
He is the only current trustee who will vote “the will of the people.” I know this because, at an open board of trustees meeting, Andy was the only trustee to voice “yes” when asked if he supported voting with the will of the resident majority.
You may not be aware, but Munson is facing financial difficulties today and maybe in the years to come. Why, because our revenues have shrunk and our expenses have not. Andy’s profession is finance and our township needs that professional background now.
Andy is the trustee our fiscal officer works with to balance our budgets and try to plan unexpected events. But, he cannot not act alone, though, regardless of the fiscal impact and is sometimes outvoted, 2-1.
Over the past year, Andy has met with most of the owners on North Fowlers Mill. He has walked the road by himself, with residents, our road department and our county engineers. He has worked hard to accomplish each owner’s specific wishes and fought to save as many trees as possible while working to make the road safer by reducing the speed limit. This was not an easy task. Andy never gave up the people’s fight, regardless of the opposition he received from his fellow trustees.
During this past year, I have talked with Andy about the history of Munson. We covered cemeteries, Anchor Rock, Bloody Corners, Brookies, historic residents and buildings. If you ask Andy a question about Munson, he’ll know the answer. He loves his township and is proud to be a Munson trustee.
Andy is also a charitable person, donating his time and money to many worthy causes. Most residents do not know how much he does because Andy doesn’t like to brag. Andy is humble beyond words and personally involved throughout our community.
You may have missed his latest award. Andy, at a Geauga Township Association meeting I attended, was surprised, honored and brought to tears at being awarded the Boy Scout “North Star Award.” It is a high-level award presented to non- registered volunteers who have made a significant contribution to Boy Scouting. What better proof of Andy’s superb moral character.
I promise that you can trust and be assured Andy will make you proud. He takes his job seriously and with unbridled passion.
Andy is your perfect trustee.
Sandi Ferlin
Munson Township
Chester Parks an Asset Needing Support
I have lived in Chesterland for 13 years and been a dog owner equally as long. My dogs and I have enjoyed walking through the West G Commons and the well-maintained facilities on a weekly basis.
As a teacher in the district, I have watched countless soccer matches and pickup basketball games on the grounds. My daughter and her friends have played on the playground equipment, walked the paths, and searched for creatures in the river.
I have held professional meetings in the pavilions and, yes, I have even used the bathrooms.
My wife and I moved to Chesterland years ago because of what Chesterland has to offer. Our parks are assets that need your support in November, when there will be a renewal tax levy on the ballot.
Please support the West G Commons so our future generations can use and enjoy the park, too.
Gordon Petronsky
Chester Township
American Men’s Redemption
What kind of men are we, who don’t battle drug-induced prostitution falling to forced sexual enslavement from drugs spread by sadistic tyrants?
If a Marine can go over the top screaming Semper fi to fight courageously for every American, every American man can fight any destructive drug assault solo to both loved ones.
We must protect his brothers, sisters, mothers, fathers, the girl he plans to marry, every person he hopes is safe and balanced at home.
We ask soldiers to fight valiantly for his loved ones.
Drug pushing destructive parasites degrade and drug into criminal activity the loved ones that mean so much to every serviceman.
Service organizations can unite in brotherhood with every serviceman and protect his home front by counseling all dependents creating a powerful punch to go over the top victorious on the war on drugs.
Once again you can fight to save us.
Bill Rees
Middlefield
Endres is Right Choice for Newbury
Our choices as voters are important in shaping the future of our communities.
Richard Endres, who is running for Newbury Township Trustee, is a great choice for the future of Newbury.
Having experience on the job as a Certified Project Management Professional, Rick will bring great organizational skills to the job. He also knows the importance of financial accountability through his service on the community financial committee.
As a Newbury Rec Board soccer coach, Rick showed young people that preparation and hard work lead to success. But, more important, he repeatedly modeled the best of sportsmanlike behavior.
Another example of his community service is, as a school board member from 1998 to 2006, he oversaw the Newbury Schools in a period of excellent ratings and increased enrollment, and worked positively with other board members, administration, teachers and voters.
Make a great choice for Newbury Trustee on Nov. 7 and vote for Richard Endres.
Cathleen McBride
Newbury Township
Mary Samide For Munson Trustee
Mary Samide is determined to make certain that every issue and concern of Munson residents will be properly addressed. Mary’s resume of accomplishments is a testimonial to her willingness to get the job done.
It is my belief that, if the residents of Munson Township desire a candidate who is a proactive and progressive leader, with the skills and experience needed to successfully meet not only the daily challenges and decisions which must be made, but the planning and movement into the future, then Mary Samide is the best choice.
Mary has served as a Munson Township Trustee in the past and during that time she helped our community to grow and thrive. Mary then took her expertise and served as Geauga County Commissioner.
Because of her endless efforts and support of the Munson Fire Department, the residents enjoyed an ISO (Insurance Rating) of a split 3/6, the best rating in Geauga County. Unfortunately, that rating has fallen and insurances premiums will likely increase.
A true believer of being proactive, not reactive, and has supported many of the new ideas and programs which have been “firsts” in Munson and Geauga County.
Mary was instrumental in initiating full-time staffing for Munson Fire Department, ensuring constant lifesaving and fire suppression personnel.
Mary was also actively involved in the Munson Fire Department 10-Year Strategic Planning Committee, which involved the residents, township trustees and members of the Munson Fire Department, who all shared and reviewed information which improved the plan for the future of our safety forces.
Aside from her continuous efforts in regards to the health and safety of our citizens, Mary has also assisted in the development and preservation of the parks and the reconstruction and pavement of all township roads, which enhances the quality of life in the community.
Mary has no doubt proven herself a driving force in our county and Munson Township, as she has diligently worked to upgrade and enhance the technology of many of our township and county offices.
The residents of Munson deserve to have strong and viable heads of office that believe in teamwork and demand results for their constituents. With Mary Samide, that is what will happen.
I believe her accomplishments speak for themselves. It’s with great sincerity and pride that I recommend Mary Samide for Munson Township Trustee.
Bernie Harchar
Munson Fire Chief (Retired)
Eberly, Troyan Place Community First
As a 35-year resident and member of the Auburn Fire Department, I say if it’s not broke why fix it. John Eberly and Mike Troyan have represented Auburn Township well and their experience as trustees should not go overlooked.
They work well within the county and surrounding local governments.
They have strong positive working relationships with the fire, road and zoning departments, including the township clerk and administrative assistant.
They helped bring stability to the fire department leadership by appointing the fire chief. They supported 24/7 staffing of fire and rescue in a new fire station that will serve the community for many years to come.
They have acquired land wisely and established Auburn Community Park and Adam Hall.
The road department now has the benefit of a well-needed new service garage.
Their accomplishments and experienced leadership have benefited Auburn Township greatly.
They are truly an example of placing the community first.
For these reasons, I endorse incumbents John Eberly and Mike Troyan for township trustee.
Dan Matsko
Auburn Township
Stability Wanted in Park Management
I moved to Geauga County in 1973 with my late husband and infant son. We discovered a wonderful small park — what is now Russell Park. It was quiet, had a few swings and picnic table, and some walking trails.
The Cuyahoga River was a gentle place to take our canoe. We would sometimes see a turtle sunning on a log. Quiet electric motors were allowed, but we seldom saw any. There was a narrow path along the river and, as my son grew, we walked it often.
Some time ago, my grown son took his young daughter to see “his park.” I stood back and watched them walk along that same narrow path he had walked with his father. He told her that if she was very quiet, she might see a turtle on a log. It was like taking a trip back in time.
I remember years of stability and the obtaining of more land for more parks. I gladly voted for the tax that would ensure all these places would be managed and protected.
The past few years have troubled me: changing management people may times, forbidding public speaking at the park meetings, TV commercials urging people to come to the parks.
All the years I have lived here, no one ever needed urging to come.
I want stability in management back in our parks.
I want them to Preserve, Conserve and Protect all our beautiful parks.
I have written this on my own accord because I care about our parks.
Anne Burke
Burton Township
Don’t Trust ‘It’s Time’
It’s time to learn about “It’s Time,” also known as Newburians for Transparency (NFT). I wish we could trust them, but in multiple entries on their forum saying that their candidates will run for the sole purpose of merging with West Geauga Schools.
They also said they have no problem losing their position due to a merger, as they just want to merge. They have shown know interest under NFT to merge with other schools, line tranfers or college-credit plus at Kent State. Rather, they are suited with West G and Lakeland, a community college.
When their info given was challenged by members and proved to not be true with supporting documents, those parties were quickly dropped from their online groups, as they only want the public to hear what they want to them to hear.
Everything they pull for, is for all three members, as they need all three to have majority and accomplish their mission. If you drive through Newbury, you can count their signs on one hand of families with student athletes that have their children’s sport signs in their yard.
It’s Time has some good ideas, but do not seem worth trusting to look out for our children’s best interest as they promise tax breaks, job security for current staff and higher home values — things a BOE member simply cannot promise. Besides, higher home value equals higher taxes.
We, multiple members of the Punderson community, will be supporting current members Susan Arnold and Anne Kolenic. They have done an outstanding job in advancing school, putting our children first in everything, and having respect for their community at all times.
Dean Mansfield pairs well with their beliefs, but if you want to try It’s Time, then we believe you should think about trying one of them to bring ideas to explore, not give all three of them a monopoly of the BOE as three new members with little to no experience.
Matt Ruchalski
Newbury Township
Real Motivation of TV Ads?
I read with interest that the Geauga Park District commissioners are discussing charging user fees for non residents and user fees for residents (taxpayers) for certain activities.
I’m not clear why the commissioners would approve a promotional budget north of $200,000 that includes expensive local television ads, which run on a fairly frequent basis, and then nickel and dime those parties.
What is the real motivation and benefit of TV ads for Geauga County taxpayers?
I can only imagine the pressure on the budget that would be reduced by eliminating the TV ads for Northeast Ohio. The taxpayers of Geauga County would be curious to know the reasoning behind these ads.
Please continue to support the efforts of Protect Geauga Parks and their attempts to pull back the opaque decision-making nature of the probate judge and the Geauga Park District park commissioners.
Bill Franz
Bainbridge Township
