Letters to the Editor
GPD Lacking Good Administration
All too often, we read in your paper about the monthly meetings of the Geauga Park District Commissioners.
Unfortunately, the Geauga Park Board continues its ban on public comment. It appears that though the turnstile of these Grendell-appointed commissioners has slowed, the effectiveness of the meetings for the public remains of little value to the public it is supposed to serve. The commissioners continue the practice of not taking or answering questions from the floor.
This lack of transparency over the last several years has done no favors generating confidence on behalf of the taxpayers of Geauga County.
One of the great themes of “The Federalist Papers” is that good government is dependent on good administration. In Federalist No. 27, Publius underscores this important theme. He argues that in order to preserve citizen confidence in government, there must be competent administration.
I would suggest that banning public comment and questions at this basic level of government month after month does not “preserve citizen confidence in government.”
When will the board resume its responsible position and entertain public comment? Help Protect Geauga Parks continue to shine a light on theses “dark” areas of democracy in Geauga County.
I’m aware that the “media,” an all too inclusive noun, adjective or pronoun continues to be indicted on pretty much a daily basis. In fact, you could argue that the word “media” is now the favorite pejorative of many.
I, for one, am grateful for our local “media” in the form of the Geauga County Maple Leaf and Chagrin Valley Times.
Bill Franz
Bainbridge Township
Wonderful Combination of Preservation, Recreation
On a recent sunny September Sunday, I visited my former home, currently known as the Claridon Woodlands Park. The early morning mist was rising from the lakes while turtles were already beginning their sunbathing routines and spiders were waking to investigate their sparkling wet webs. Would there be breakfast? Human guests of the park were unloading various types of cycling machines, walking their dogs or trying to keep up with excited members of the younger set. Whenever I visit, there seems to be a great deal of activity throughout the park.
I’ve wandered the acreage for over 60 years, its rhythms ingrained in mine. Thankfully, due to careful planning, many of its natural gems remain. Let me share some of these secrets!
The woodland loop leaves many acres of old, wet forest for thankful critter citizens. This trail design also protects two pristine streams that feed the upper lake as well as a wetlands area. There are also two fairly large, transitioning fields that are left for wildlife. Clever landscaping has protected a precious vernal pond.
In a far corner of the woods is a stand of stately pine trees whose roots once embraced fox dens and where owl pellets might be found. Deer can once again hide their does in the restored prairies and in the intact acreage of the Kaplan property. With the two farms spliced together, surely there is room for many types of heartbeats.
The nature based play area, the bike tract and the high ropes course fit like puzzle pieces and do not take up any huge acreage. Their location allows for easy entrance into the park via the bike path, inviting busy families to spend some time by the lake. Some play, while others simply absorb the healing reflections of pond and thought.
The Judge Lester Taylor Lodge is an asset to the community. Besides being a spectacular setting for any number of events, it is a salute to the history of Claridon. I am particularly appreciative of the research, respect, and writing of the two informational plaques in the lodge that were designed by my brother, Bill Hyde, and Park Naturalist Dan Best.
I wish to thank all those involved in the transformational process of turning this property into a public park. It is a continuation of how we lived there as a family; plenty of work, lots of fun, and many welcome guests. The Claridon Woodlands Park is a wonderful combination of preservation and recreation.
Happy Trails!
Elizabeth Hyde Siman
Hiram
*****
Ondrey Has the ‘Right Stuff’
It is my distinct privilege to endorse David M. Ondrey to the elected position as Judge of the Common Pleas Court in Geauga County.
I have valued my association with him spanning over four decades, both personally and professionally.
David Ondrey demonstrates consistent and measured results as an accomplished attorney, litigator and civic leader. His numerous accomplishments have earned him the respect and trust of his clients and colleagues alike.
His fair and balanced approach, critical thinking and superb listening skills make him the ideal choice as Judge.
I most admire his deep respect and appreciation for the Constitution of the United States of America, as originally written by our Founding Fathers, the rule of law and the judicial temperance he has demonstrated both in and out of the courtroom.
While I was the Hospital President of University Hospitals Geauga Medical Center, I witnessed Dave Ondrey as Chairman of the Board of Directors navigate through complex issues with finesse and diplomacy, resulting in positive outcomes.
I am convinced that David Ondrey has the “right stuff” to be a successful and committed judge.
Therefore, it is without reservation that I wholeheartedly endorse and advocate his candidacy for Judge of the Common Pleas Court in Geauga County.
Vote YES for David M. Ondrey on Nov. 6, 2018, to ensure judicial excellence.
Richard J. Frenchie, MBA, LFACHE
President, The Frenchie Group
Auburn Township
A Great Investment for Citizens
I am writing in support of Matthew Rambo for election as a Geauga County Common Pleas Court judge.
I could base this support upon my opinion that Matt is a very nice person and a great lawyer. While both characteristics are important, I also bring into the assessment my 28 years working as the Court Administrator for the Lucas County Common Pleas Court. This experience gave me a unique opportunity to know the “behind the curtain” realities of what it takes to be a successful judge.
One of the first things to realize is that nobody comes onto the bench knowing all aspects of the job. It takes time to learn the ropes, develop and implement a practical judicial philosophy, and earn respect as a competent and fair judge.
There are two critical facts that support selecting Matt for the Geauga County Common Pleas Court. First, Matt is the only candidate with judicial experience, having previously worked as a magistrate and a staff attorney. He has a clear vision about judicial actions he can take to benefit and strengthen the community he will serve.
Matt is focused upon what he can do to serve the community he loves and bringing to the bench a dedication to the rule of law.
A second critical fact is that neither of the other two candidates will be able to serve more than one term. Both gentlemen will be over 70 years of age at the end of a first term and will be barred from running again. This would be like hiring someone for a complex, critical job, spending lots of time and money training them, knowing that they will resign after a very short tenure.
In addition to his prior court experience, Matt will bring constructive ideas, collegiality and positive energy to the bench.
Electing Matt to the Geauga County Common Pleas Court is a great investment for the citizens of Geauga County.
Jean Atkin
Newbury Township
