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  EMS LEVY  
  Trustee Larry Moliterno: “We weren’t going to wait until there was no ambulance service in Boardman”:   October 31, 2024 Edition  
     Tax levy placed on ballot after attempts to create a regional or countywide service failed
     
      BY JOHN A. DARNELL JR.
      associate editor
      Recognizing a need for an emergency medical services, Boardman Township Trustees explained to a half-dozen people who attended their meeting on Monday night, that it was only after they made unsuccessful attempts to merge ambulance services with Canfield, or to get Mahoning County Commissioners to form a countywide ambulance service, that a decision was made to place a 4.5-mil tax levy on the November ballot to provide a full-time ambulance service operated out of the township’s three fire stations.
      The levy, if approved, will generate some $30 million over the course of five years to purchase two ambulances, and equip and provide manpower (paramedics) for the vehicles so Boardman Township can provide full-time EMS services to the public.
      Martin Colyer, of 24 Leighton Ave., who said he is an outreach minister at Faith Fellowship in Youngstown, addressed the Board of Trustees to “express my diligent opposition to new taxes.”
      “We already have a private sector company providing these services,” Colyer said, adding “Once government comes in, they push out all the private sector.”
      Former Mahoning County Sheriff Deputy James Lewandowski, of Buchanan Dr. opined “This levy is doomed to failure.” He asked if there were any figures that showed how many EMS calls in Boardman are provided to “resident and non-residents?” The question went unanswered as Lewandowski said the levy would place a burden on property owners.
      “We need to go to the county commissioners,” Lewandowski said.
      “We tried speaking with the commissioners and Canfield,” Trustee Tom Costello responded, adding “This levy is the third option.”
      Mark Brandenstein, also of Buchanan Dr., said opponents of the levy “were not against” township trustees, but the levy is wrong.
      “You guys never had a complaint since 2012 when Lanes LifeTrans began providing EMS services in Boardman,” Brandenstein said.
      “We have had a number of complaints,” Brad Calhoun, chairman of the Board of Trustees responded, adding there have been incidents of lengthy response times by Lanes, for example “because they had to take a call to take a nursing home outpatient to the doctor.”
      Fire Chief Mark Pitzer said if Lanes has to answer calls in Trumbull County, “our Boardman ambulances get held over.
      “Just last month alone, 50 times, we had response times in excess of 10 minutes, and five times where we had response times in excess of 20 minutes.
      “This doesn’t take into consideration how many times our ambulance responded because they (Lanes LifeTrans) weren’t available.
      “If we don’t have an ambulance available, what’s a life worth?”
      The fire chief also indicated that some funds from the levy would be used to restore manpower in his department; and that recently to properly staff personnel for fire calls, and EMS calls, “we have had to use overtime.”
      Trustee Larry Moliterno said “We weren’t going to wait until there was no ambulance service in Boardman. We went to the county and they wouldn’t do anything. We went to Canfield and tried to make it regional. They wouldn’t do it. We were not going to sit here until that day when ambulance service was not available.”
      Ralph Cook, of 803 Presidential Dr., opined “This levy isn’t just for an ambulance service. This money is for a lot of different things. Can you tell me just how much money you actually need for an ambulance service?”
      “What we’re trying to do…is to staff it so we can go on ambulance calls and on fire calls concurrently, that other communities cannot do, so it’s more expensive to operate.” Moliterno responded, adding “If we are going to do this, we are going to do it right.
      “We have to put a levy on the ballot so we don’t have to go back to the people again for another ten years. Yes, there will be some carryover.”
      Ryan Halquist, president of Local 1176 of the International Association of Fire-Fighters, that represents the Boardman Fire Department, made brief comments.
      “We’re trying to provide a good service. We want to get an ambulance in all three fire stations in Boardman.
      “You don’t know what it is like when you’re performing CPR on someone and your closest ambulance is (in Austintown). It happens, and it has happened lot, and you’re supposed to look at the family and explain what’s going on?
      “I’ll be dammed if I’m going to be here when Lanes shuts down and our guys won’t have an answer for you.”
     
  Good Hope Lutheran Church To Observe 95th Anniversary On Nov. 17  
  October 31, 2024 Edition  
     Good Hope Lutheran Church, 98 Homestead Dr. at Southern Blvd., will observe its 95 anniversary on Sun., Nov. 17.
      The church was founded in 1929 as a congregation of the North American Lutheran Church.
      Following the Sunday morning worship service, an anniversary dinner/presentation will be held from noon to 3:00 p.m.
      Special guests for the event include Bishop Dan Selbo, Pastor Bob Groenke, who served the church from 1972-197; and Pastor Tim Philabaum, son of Rev. Bernard Philabaum, who served as Good Hope pastor from 1968-1980.
      Current pastor is Bob Quaintance who has served the church since 1991.
  Nov. 10 Program Will Honor Veterans  
  October 31, 2024 Edition  
      A veterans program of music and readings will be presented at Westminster Presbyterian Church, 119 Stadium Dr., on Sunday, November 10 at noon. The choirs of Westminster and Boardman United Methodist will combine with tenor soloist, William Ambert, and organist/pianist Kathryn Miller to present patriotic favorites. Notable selections will include Aaron Copland’s “Fanfare for the Common Man,” John Philip Sousa’s “Stars and Stripes Forever,” and choral settings of “The Navy Hymn” and Lee Greenwood’s “God Bless the U.S.A.” The program will open with the flag ceremony and conclude with the audience joining the choirs in singing “God Bless America.” A Power Point presentation will accompany the music with pictures of veterans. Photos (digital or physical copies) may be submitted to the church office for inclusion in the video. A bagged lunch will be served during the 45-minute concert. The event is free and open to the public.
  Shooting Victim And Alleged Shooter Both Face Criminal Charges  
  Nathan Fair Was Shot In The Leg After Domestic Issue At 473 Oakridge Dr. On Oct. 11:   October 24, 2024 Edition  
Nathan Fair
     Two persons are facing charges following an early morning shooting on Oct. 11 at 473 Oakridge Dr.
      Edwin Garcia, 26, of 715 Palmer Ave., Youngstown, Oh., has been charged with felonious assault.
      Nathan Fair, 41, of 803 South Raccoon Rd., Austintown, Oh., has been charged with menacing by stalking and criminal damaging.
      Fair told police he “half drove” to the home of his ex-girlfriend, Brittany Ashton, 43, of 473 Oakridge Dr., parking his father’s SUV in a nearby lot of an apartment complex and then walking to Ashton’s home.
      Once there he and Ashton had an argument over breaking-up, Ptl. Earl Neff was told.
      Fair said the suspect who is alleged to have shot him was present during the argument between himself and Ashton, and when he turned to walk away, he was shot in the right leg.
      Fair also sustained a large wound on his face and two black eyes that he claimed happened when he was “pistol-whipped” before police arrived at the scene.
      While conducting their investigation, police learned a wire to a security camera for the Oakridge Dr. home had been cut. When asked about cutting a wire to a security camera, Fair responded, “I think I did that.
      “I was at an ex-girlfriend’s house. She’s been playing me and him...I didn’t say nothing to him, he pulled the gun on me.”
      Asked if he cared about being charged in the incident, Fair replied “It’s only misdemeanors.”
  Oles Ave. Apartment Building Will Be Razed  
  October 17, 2024 Edition  
      A 6-plex apartment building that is in a state of disrepair, at 1893 Oles Ave., will be torn down. Boardman Township officials visited the site last week to insure no one is living in the building, setting the stage for its demolition.
  Surveillance Video Helped To Provide ‘Ample Evidence’ That Campbell Man Stole $8.07 Worth Of Beer At Sheetz  
  Guilty Verdict Upheld By Appellate Court:   October 17, 2024 Edition  
     The Seventh District Court of Appeals has upheld a guilty verdict rendered in Boardman Court on a Mar. 13, 2023 theft of three cans of Platinum Bud beer valued at $8.07 at Sheetz, 134 Boardman-Poland Rd.
      Frank Notte, 55, of 869 Carlton Dr., Cambell, Oh., had appealed the verdict and during the court process, he obtained two, different attorneys, both appointed at public cost.
      In finding Notte guilty in Boardman Court, Judge Joseph Houser suspended a 180 day jail sentence, ordered Notte to serve 12 months of community control and five days of community service; fined the man $100 and ordered him to stay off the property of Sheetz.
      A decision authored by Seventh District Judge Mark Hanni upheld the guilty verdict.
      Judge Hanni noted that Sheetz provided police with two photographs---one of the suspect in the theft, and another photo captured the vehicle in which the suspect fled from the business.
      Judge Hanni’s decision notes that Deborah Green, a store manager, had testified about 11:22 a.m. on Mar. 13, 2023, that she observed Notte “enter the beer cave, take beer and proceed out the door” and the store’s closed-circuit video surveillance captured Notte stealing the suds and leaving without paying.
      In Boardman Court, Notte testified he was not the person shown on the store’s surveillance video, although he did admit to previously driving the car that was identified by its license plate number as being at Sheetz. Notte claimed that the person in the video was the car owner’s boyfriend.
      His case in Boardman Court was not decided until Mar. 5, 2024, after which Notte’s second counsel filed an appeal claiming the court erred in its verdict “in the absence of sufficient evidence and contrary to due process and the fifth and 14th amendments to the United State Constitution, and Article 1/Section 16 of the Ohio Constitution; and the verdict against Notte “was against the manifest weight of evidence.”
      In Boardman Court, Notte testified the person who had committed the theft was the vehicle’s owner who drove away from Sheetz, and that the manager, Green, “only saw the perpetrator face-to-face for a couple of seconds.”
      His counsel in the appeal to the Seventh District Court contended that “Viewing an individual for only a couple of seconds is insufficient to identify someone previously unknown.”
      Judge Hanni (in an opinion about which Appealate Judges Carol Ann Robb and Katelyn Dickey concurred) said “We conclude that sufficient evidence supports [Notte’s] theft conviction...
      “There was ample evidence...establishing that [Notte] was the individual who committed the theft from Sheetz. Thus we conclude that [Notte’s] conviction is supported by the manifest weight of evidence...
      “We affirm [Judge Houser’s] decision.”
  4.5-Mil Tax Levy Would Provide Funding For Fire Department To Provide EMS Services  
  ‘Perfect Storm’ Increase In Demand For EMS Service, Large Reduction In Ambulance Providers:   October 17, 2024 Edition  
     BY JOHN A. DARNELL JR.
      associate editor
      During a 55-second message on social media that was released last week, Boardman Fire Chief Mark Pitzer explains what he identified as a ‘perfect storm’--- “a situation through the years where we had an increase in demand for EMS service and a large reduction in ambulance providers in our area.
      “We used to have a dozen ambulance providers in our area, now we have been reduced to two which has forced not only Boardman Township, but several, other communities around us to get into the EMS business and provide that service through their fire department.”
      Chief Pitzer said a comparative analysis of the 30 largest townships in Ohio (the chief says that Boardman is the 12th largest) shows all but two have entered into the EMS business.
      “These challenges, combined with the aging population we see in Boardman, have all contributed to an increased demand in service on our ambulances,” Chief Pitzer said.
      Boardman Township has placed a 4.5-mil additional tax levy on the November general election ballot. Funds from the levy, if approved, will support ambulance/EMS services out of all three of Boardman Township’s fire stations.
      If approved, the levy will add $158 per every $100,000 of tax valuation to annual property taxes; and raise some $4.53 million (including $2.4 million for salaries) to provide the full-time EMS service.
      The Boardman EMS levy committee says “the lifesaving EMS initiative puts an ambulance and crew in each of Boardman’s three fire stations and can make a big difference in response time.
      “But the cost is low.”
      According to the just completed, 2023 annual report of Chief Pitzer, the Boardman Fire Department responded to 5,317 calls last year, including 747 that were fire-related; 2,180 EMS calls; 1,238 calls to provide EMS assistance, and 171 responses to motor vehicle accidents with reported injuries.
      According to the BFD’s annual report for 2023, response time on EMS calls answered by the fire department average five minutes; and the average response time for calls answered by Lane LifeTrans is about six minutes.
      “Boardman Has Two Options---Do nothing; accept slow or no EMS response. Risk lives.” or “Use the ballot and let residents consider an affordable levy to bring EMS service to safe levels,” the EMS levy committee says.
      A Boardman Township Exploratory EMS Committee that was formed in 2018 said “Our limited EMS resources must cover response to medical emergencies for 42,500 residents during the evening and another 60,000 visitors who come to Boardman every day to work or shop. (100,000 total).”
      12 Largest Townships In Ohio
      Township County Population
      1) West Chester.....Butler...............62,285
      2)Green........Hamilton..................60,424
      3) Colerain.....Hamilton.................59,239
      4) Union........Clermont.................49,639
      5) Anderson........Hamilton..............44,088
      6) Miami...........Clermont..............43,943
      7) Liberty...........Butler..............42,230
      8) Jackson..........Stark................42,817
      9) Deerfield........Warren.............40,525
      10) Boardman.....Mahoning................40,213
      11) Washington......Montgomery...........37,444
      12) Austintown......Mahoning.............36,049
      SOURCE: 2020 Census Data/Ohio Township Association
  Quincy’s Retirement Sale Has ‘Something For Everyone’  
  October 10, 2024 Edition  
     oween---or anytime?
      Stop by Quincy’s Costumes, 5332 Market St., next to Youngstown Dance Supply and Outdoor Recreation Equipment. They have costumes and much more.
      The owners of Quincy’s, Diane and Quinton Franklin Hoover, have announced their retirement and are selling-off an eclectic collection of costumes and other stuff---and that includes two vintage cars, a 1964 Oldsmobile convertible, and a 1970 Cord, not to mention hats, wigs, character and theatrical costumes, assorted memorabilia and pictures.
      There is something for everyone at Quincy’s!
      The Hoovers first opened their business in 1984, and two years later, along with Diane’s brother and sister-in-law, Tony and Lori Ricciuti, opened the nearby Outdoor Recreation Equipment.
      The Hoover’s dance supply business gained a reputation as one of the largest area distributors of dance ware---but their enormous collection of ‘stuff’ at Quincy’s takes the cake!
      For example, amidst their collections is a gumball machine, or how about caricatures of the Blues Brothers.
      “We have enjoyed traveling all over the country buying ‘stuff,’ and believe it or not, people have traveled here from all over the country for costumes and the other merchandise we have,” Quinton said.
      His wife noted “We didn’t look for all this, it just happened.”
      While Quincy’s will close later his year, the Youngstown Dance Supply will continue, as it has been purchased by a longtime employee of the Hoover, Jacqueline Doubet Baker.
      While collecting and selling their ‘stuff,’ at Quincy’s, the Hoover’s dance supply business flourished, and the company now has stores in Howland, Warren, Chagrin Falls and Solon, in addition to their Boardman location.
      “We’ve had a great run here in Boardman,” Quinton said this week. “We’ve been like a treasure here in the Mahoning Valley and have been honored that so many people have visited us over the past four decades. At one time there were more than 30 businesses like ours, and they have come and gone, and we continued to thrive with our vast selection of merchandise and low prices.”
      For their retirement sale, everything at Quincy’s will be sold at half-price, Quinton said this week.
     
      PICTURED: photo/John A. Darnell jr.
       EVERYTHING’S FOR SALE at Quincy’s, 5332 Market St., as owners of the local business, Quinton and Linda Hoover (pictured here with ‘the Blues Brothers) are retiring. Looking for any type of costume or related merchandise, Quincy’s is offering everything at half price until Halloween.
  45-Year-Old Youngstown Man With Some 60 Prior Convictions And A 333 Day Jail Sentence Yet To Be Served, Charged With Theft  
  September 26, 2024 Edition  
     Sept. 16: Elijah Junior Taylor, 45, of 346 Mistletoe, Youngstown, Oh., (a home with a $3.11 annual property tax) charged with two counts of theft (Burlington Coat Factory and Ollie’s in the Boardman Plaza) and one count of possession of drug paraphernalia and one count of possession of criminal tools.
      According to records of the Mahoning County Court systems, Taylor has a record of 60 convictions for property crimes dating back to 1998.
      Among those convictions was on Mar. 13, 2024 when Taylor was found guilty of theft and sentenced to 333 days in jail. County Court Judge Scott Hunter noted in a judgement entry dated Aug. 15, 2024 that prior to serving the 333 days, Taylor was “sent to the Ohio Department of Rehabilitation and Corrections (ODRC) with an out date of Aug. 15, 2024. The Mahoning County Sheriff’s Department was notified...the defendant (Taylor) was sent to The Ohio State University Hospital from the Corrections Reception Center and surgery was performed; and that Taylor will be released from the custody of the ODRC [on Aug. 15],” adding that Taylor had been instructed to return to the OSU hospital in two weeks for a follow-up appointment,
      “In light of the foregoing and for good cause shown, Taylor’s sentence herein to be suspended at this time,” Judge Hunter said, adding that “Taylor shall self report to the Mahoning County Justice Center (jail) when he is medically cleared and shall serve his 333 days previously imposed on Mar. 14, 2024. If Taylor fails to report, a bench warrant shall be issued.”
      In Taylor’s most recent incident with Boardman police, officers were told a suspect whom a Burlington Coat Factory identified as Taylor, selected towels and several bed sheet sets valued at $154.89 and then went to a register and attempted to return the items. “When he wasn’t able to produce a receipt for the return, he stated he would just keep the items and exited the store without making an attempt to pay for anything,” Ptl. Jeff Lytle said.
      During a search incident to his arrest, police said Taylor was found to be in possession of a suspected crack pipe, as well as numerous packages of candy that were from Ollie’s in the Boardman Plaza.
      Taylor was placed into handcuffs and then into a police cruiser. “While in the back of the cruiser, Taylor began to complain of having a panic attack and was transported by Lanes Lifetrans to Mercy Health/Boardman. Once released from the hospital, Taylor was taken to the county jail. “Taylor slept most of the way,” Sgt. Glenn Patton said.
      Then, according to police, once at the jail “Taylor would not wake up,” so after verifying the suspect had a pulse and was breathing, an ambulance was summoned and a deputy administered two doses of naloxone to the man, who then “was more responsive,” Sgt. Patton said, adding “It should be noted, according to medics, Taylor would talk with them, and then when he saw me, he would lay down and become unresponsive.”
      Taylor was then taken by ambulance to Mercy Health/Youngstown for further evaluation. Once cleared by the medical staff, Ptl. Makenzie Butcherine took Taylor back to the county lock-up for booking.
      “The medical staff at the Mahoning County Sheriff’s Office deemed that Taylor was still impaired and would not accept him for booking. Taylor was drooling on himself, he could barely walk or talk, and his body would spasm every couple minutes,” Officer Butcherine said, adding the jail’s medical staff requested that Taylor be taken back to Mercy Health/Youngstown for a re-evaluation.
      Once back at the hospital, Officer Butcherine reported “The general nurse in charge of Taylor suspects that Taylor may be faking his symptoms to avoid being booked into the jail, based on her medical experiences and observing Taylor’s behaviors.”
      Eight hours after the incident at Burlington Coat Factory, Taylor was still at Mercy Health/Youngstown. Officer Butcherine noted “During Taylor’s time within the hospital, he had leg shackles attached to one of his ankles and the other end to attached to the bed, in an attempt to prevent his escape.”
      On Sat., Sept. 21 at 7:16 a.m., Ptl. Evan Beil said he had obtained information that Taylor “absconded from Mercy Health/Youngstown.”
      Officer Beil noted on Sept. 20, that “Taylor may have had contact with Hermitage police after he was found inside of a stolen vehicle with another party. He did not face any charges from that incident.”
     
  Township Admnistrator, Park Board Member Address Tax Levies That Will Be On The November Ballot  
  Two Renewal Issues And A 4.5-Mil Fire/EMS Levy:   September 26, 2024 Edition  
     BY JOHN A. DARNELL JR.
      associate editor
      Boardman Township Administrator Jason Loree and Boardman Park Board Commissioner Atty. Steve Yacovone addressed local tax levies that will be on the November general election ballot during a forum held at the park’s Lariccia Family Center last week.
      Approval of a 4.5-mil additional levy for fire/EMS services would provide $6.1 million annually, and would enable the township to hire enough paramedics who will be on staff to man an ambulance in each of Boardman’s three fire stations. Currently, the township has one ambulance in service and has contracted with a private company, Lane LifeTrans, that also provides EMS/paramedic services in Boardman.
      Loree noted that in 2011, 15 ambulance companies were available to provide services to Boardman Township.
      The administrator said that efforts to form a regional fire service, a reference to a Mahoning countywide EMS service that could consolidate EMS services of 25 fire departments; as well as an attempt to form a joint EMS district with Canfield “didn’t work out,” adding “a paramedic shortage is a real problem.”
      Loree said levy monies would not only provide ambulance/EMS services---Approval would also provide funding to outfit, to provide manpower and equipment for the vehicles.
      “The cost of an ambulance can be $300,000 and has to be outfitted, manned and equipped,” Loree said.
      According to Boardman Fire Chief Mark Pitzer, since Jan. 1, “Our ambulance has answered and transported 218 patients. Of the 218 transports, 155 patients required advanced life support care, and 63 required basic life support care.”
      The administrator also made brief remarks about a 3-tenths-mil renewal issue that has been on the ballot for some 30 years. Monies from the levy are used by the road department that maintains over 145 miles of roadway in Boardman, the 12th largest township in Ohio.
      Atty. Yacovone spoke on the 6-tenths-mil renewal issue for Boardman Park, pointing out the park district has operated on funding provided by the levy since the district was approved by the electorate in 1947. Monies raised by the levy, $570,000 annually, comprises 40 per cent of the park’s annual budget.
      “The cost the average homeowner just pennies a day,” Yacovone said, adding “If it fails, it would be detrimental to this beautiful area.”
      The park commissioner noted that Boardman Park provides 60 acres of recreational space, and on its 294 acres of land there are more than 30,000 trees.
      “The park is a special place for the community and our future,” Yacovone said.
      The forum was sponsored by the Boardman Civic Association. About 125 persons were in attendance.
      Other Speakers
      Candidates for 33rd Ohio Senate District at the forum were incumbent Al Cutrona (R) and challenger Marty Hume (D).
      Cutrona pledged to address issues surrounding property taxes, while noting he helped secure a $1 million grant for the creation of a stormwater park on the site of the former Market St. Elementary School.
      Hume claimed “democracy is on the ballot in November.”
      Candidates for the 59th district Ohio State Representative seat included incumbent Tex Fischer (R) and challenger Lauren Schaeffer (D).
      Fischer said a “core issue” is properety taxes, while Schaeffer said Republicans have failed to address the issue of property taxes
      On the November ballot for two seats on the Board of Mahoning County Commissioners are incumbents Anthony Traficanti (D) and David Ditzler (D).
      Traficanti’s opponent did not attend the forum and the incumbent suggested anyone over 70-years-old should not have to pay property taxes.
      Ditzler said the current board of commissioners are a team that works together and DiFabio suggested being a commissioner “doesn’t have to be about politics,” even though he has been politicking for the job for years.
      Also attending the forum were candidates for Mahoning County Clerk of Courts, Dan Dascenzo (D), who now holds the job by appointment; and Michael Ciccone (R), whose remarks weren’t fully intelligible; candidates for county recorder including incumbent Noralynn Palermo (D) and her challenger Richard Scarsella (R); and candidates for county treasurer, incumbent Dan Yemma (D) and challenger Wade Calhoun (R).
  Prosecutor Cites 98 Per Cent Conviction Rate Her Opponent Says 14 Per Cent Of Murder Cases Are Dismissed Or Result In Not Guilty Finding  
  Civic Association Holds Election Forum:   September 26, 2024 Edition  
     BY JOHN A. DARNELL JR.
      associate editor
      Current Mahoning County Prosecutor Gina DeGenova (D) told some 125 persons who attended the Boardman Civic Associations Candidates and Issues forum held at the Lariccia Family Community Center last week in Boardman Park that since she took office (in 2023 when Paul Gains resigned the post) that the office “has demonstrated a 98 per cent conviction rate and less than 3 per cent of our cases have been dismissed.”
      Her opponent in the November general elections, Lynn Maro (R), noted when DeGenova took office “she said she wasn’t going to change a thing. I can tell you over the last 23 years that I’ve done criminal defense work...there is a laundry list of cases that have been vacated because we haven’t followed the rules.”
      Maro noted that “Last summer evidence was not turned-over in a homicide case resulting in a delay.”
      She also said that 14 per cent of murder cases over the last four years have been dismissed, or resulted in a finding of not guilty.
      “That should never happen,” Maro said.
      DeGenova stated “Over last year alone, I’ve prosecuted multiple criminal cases, securing the convictions of a violent murderer and a man who violently attacked a police officer.”
      DeGenova stated under her administration, the prosecutor’s office has one rule and “that is to follow the law.”
      The prosecutor said while she has been in office an on-call prosecutor was put on staff who is available to answer questions from law enforcement 24-hours-a-day, seven days a week.
      She said a Victims Unit has been created “devoted to seeking justice for crimes against our most vulnerable persons, and a Comfort Dog Program “helps victims to provide comfort and a safe place to tell their stories.”
      Noted DeGenova, “As prosecutor, I have an obligation to develop programs to reduce crime,” including offering a self-defense class, the dog program and the Blue Envelope program that helps people with disabilities “to communicate with police during a traffic stop.”
      Both DeGenova and Maro have been attorneys for more than two decades.
      Maro said she is seeking election as county prosecutor for one reason, “justice.
      “If we lose one case because we haven’t followed the law or rules, justice is denied for our community, police officers and victims.”
      Maro said “I want a justice system where when someone walks out of the courtroom, everyone has confidence in the outcome of the case.”
      Maro said a homicide case before the court last year was delayed because evidence was not turned over to defense attorneys in the matter.
      “This shows a lack of respect for the rule of law, and the constitution,” Maro said, adding “Every continuance, every dismissal is a waste of taxpayer dollars and criminal justice resources; and shows a lack of regard for the victims, police officers and our community.
      “It is an ongoing problem, and needs to be fixed.”
  ODOT Asked To Consider Concerns Of Businesses When Making Rt. 224 Changes  
  September 19, 2024 Edition  
     BY JOHN A. DARNELL JR.
      associate editor
      Citing concerns raised by property owners along Boardman’s main commercial corridor, Township Administrator Jason Loree is asking the Ohio Department of Transportation to reconsider some proposed changes along that stretch of roadway.
      “Several property owners along the corridor have raised serious concerns regarding access to their businesses,” Loree stated in a letter sent last week to Lauren Phillips, ODOT district planning engineer.
      “We ask that you reconsider certain proposal to address these issues,” Loree said.
      ODOT is proposing closing several turn lanes along Rt. 224, from South Ave. to Market St., as well as placing barriers in the roadway that will also limit access to businesses along Rt. 224. The proposal, Boardman Trustees have been told, could also increase traffic flows through residential neighborhoods.
      “The Applewood Commons Plaza is concerned about the removal of the traffic signal at the entrance to Dick’s Sporting Goods, which was privately funded during the area’s development.
      “Removing this signal and installing a barrier would likely result in increased traffic on Applewood Boulevard, a township road, as drivers would cut across private property to access the northern part of the plaza. Additionally, this change would prevent drivers from crossing between the Shops at Boardman Park and Applewood Commons Plaza,” Loree said in his letter to Phillis.
      The administrator noted “The property owners on the north side of US 224 between Market Street (SR7) and California Avenue are concerned that the proposed u-turns and medians may deter customers, particularly the elderly and less experienced drivers, who are less familiar with such traffic patterns, potentially leading to more accidents rather than fewer.
      “A suggested alternative is to construct a through lane on the south side of US 224, in front of the Southern Park Mall, without adding a median. This would maintain traffic flow while providing a dedicated left-turn lane for properties on the north side of US 224.”
      Loree concluded, “We hope that you will consider modifying the plans to better accommodate their needs. Our goal is to continue making Boardman A Nice Place to Call Home.”
      Among their property owners expressing concern over ODOT’s plans for Rt. 224, is Vince Fond III. His company owns the Applewood Commons property where Dick’s Sporting Goods is located.
      ODOT wants to eliminate a traffic light and the intersection that connects Applewood Commons with the Shops at Boardman Park for safety reasons.
      “Right when we were about to have the lease signed...we disclosed (ODOT’s) plans to our tenant and they immediately pulled out. So I mean as far as economic impact, it has happened already,” Fond said.
  PENDING $47 MILLION FLOOD MITIGATION PROJECT UTILIZING FEMA GRANT WILL ADDRESS MAJOR WATER ISSUES  
  September 19, 2024 Edition  
      Boardman Township, in conjunction with the ABC Water and Sewer District, has received approval of federal grant funding to undertake a $47.248 million storm water project that is designed to alleviate flooding issues that have plagued the township for some eight decades.
      The grant will be one of the largest ever awarded to a community in the Northeast Ohio region, and one of the largest grants for such work in the state of Ohio.
      The flooding issues began In Boardman Township in the late 1940s, as the township began to change from a farming community to a site for residential and commercial development in Mahoning County.
      During that period, inadequate local development regulations led to inadequate stormwater management, as homes and retail sites were constructed in some areas where floodplain, or riparian areas should have been preserved.
      For example, the Cranberry Run Watershed, that slices through the middle of Boardman Township, outgrew the functionality of streams that were piped, or channelized, some as early as the 1930s, using Works Project Administration-style sandstone blocks.
      Residential, retail and commercial development continued upstream of the watershed area, further exacerbating the functionality of those streams.
      As a study completed by the locally-owned CT Consultants determined, “Upstream developments weren’t just homes, but seas of asphalt and commercial areas with no water detention.”
      Adding to the surface water issues in Boardman was a major roadway artery, Route 224, that was paved and widened in the 1960s, with no detention systems designed that could have provided some mitigation to the increased water run-off, particularly during large storms.
      “This lack of historical, adequate stormwater planning and management implementation is a major cause of flooding,” CT Consultants said, adding that “Over the last few decades, Boardman Township Trustees have begun implementing storm water management projects, and helped to form a stormwater district to help deal with these issues,”
      “Undersized and enclosed water conveyance areas are a factor contributing to flooding,” the consulting firm determined.
      Stormwater issues worsened over time and between 2018 and 2022, three, severe storms struck the township, dumping more than 12-inches of rain that available systems could not handle, causing flooding problems in hundreds of homes and many businesses, including along Rt. 224 and the Boardman Plaza.
      After a 1000-year storm in 2022 dumped more than four inches of rain in a three-hour period, Boardman was declared a disaster area and the federal government established a Help Center at the Boardman Government Center to provide relief to those impacted by the storm. Property damage was estimated to be more than $4 million from that 2022 event.
      In addition to grant funding received to reduce surface water issues in the Cranberry Run watershed area (particularly in the area of Market St. near Shields Rd.), the ABC Water and Sewer District has aided in the construction of a large detention system along Wildwood Dr., between Glenwood Ave. and Market St.; and increased water-holding capacities at Boardman Lake (near Glendale and Brookfield Aves.).
      Boardman Township is expected to alleviate many surface water issues with the Federal Mitigation Assistance (FMA) grant.
      The Township’s plan is to construct a culvert large enough to re-route storm runoff around
      neighborhoods that suffer recurring flooding.
      The culvert (along Glenwood Ave.) will bypass a large section of culverted stream which is
      currently not adequately sized. The new culvert will discharge into a section of open stream that is downstream of the those impacted neighborhoods.
      Once the Glenwood culvert is installed, the existing culvert along Rockdale Ave. will be replaced with a larger diameter culvert.
      Also, two nature-based improvements will be installed at the Boardman Plaza. 1) A section of the asphalt parking lot in front of the main plaza will be removed and a bio-swale installed that will slow down run off to and from the plaza; and 2) Another section of parking lot behind the western section of Boardman Plaza will be acquired and green space created to reduce stormwater runoff.
      Finally, two apartment buildings behind the Boardman Plaza will be acquired and the tenants relocated. Those buildings will be demolished, and a new detention basin will be installed.
      The mitigation activity (construction) will be implemented using industry standard construction specifications and methods to reduce flooding.
      The new culvert will re-route approximately 99 acres of upstream drainage area around neighborhoods that have suffered from perpetual flooding.
     
  New Stratgeic Plan, New School Building On Agenda Of New School Superintendent  
  3700 Students Enrolled In Boardman School System:   September 5, 2024 Edition  
     BY JOHN A. DARNELL JR.
      associate editor
      Addressing teachers prior to the start of the 2024-25 school year, new Boardman Supt. Chris Neifer spoke about four, key items---SWOT Analysis, Support and Perspective, a new strategic plan and establishment of a new building plan.
      “The SWOT (Strengths, Weaknesses, Opportunities and Threats) is something I was promised during my interview process,” Neifer said, noting such an analysis will “help me to develop a strong focus as we build a strategic plan to help move the district forward.”
      According to the superintendent, providing support and perspective refers to his role in the district as the new leader of ‘Spartan nation.’
      “As I experience Boardman Local Schools from the inside, I get the chance to provide continued support for the many excellent things that are already in place here.
      “My 28 years of educational experience also allows me to provide a different perspective in regards to educational initiatives as we look to provide the best possible educational environments and opportunities for our students,” Neifer said adding the time is here to update the district’s strategic plan.
      “The tentative goal will be to embark on the strategic planning process starting in January. This is the normal progression of things in most [school] districts---to update your strategic plan every three-to-five years,” the superintendent said.
      Neifer said the “process of exploring the feasibility building a new school(s) started before my time here. I will look to get up to speed on where the committee is in this process and then look to continue trying to establish a plan to move forward with the most efficient and financially responsible plan for the future.”
      Boardman Local Schools opened the 2024-25 school year with an enrollment of 3700 students, including 111 who attend the Mahoning County Career and Technical Center.
      The enrollment figures include 1083 students in high school, 562 attending Glenwood Jr. High School, 825 students at Center Intermediate, 418 students at West Blvd. Elementary School, 368 students at Stadium Dr. Elementary School and 332 students at Robinwood Lane Elementary School.
  Boardman Township Community Day Sept. 14  
  September 5, 2024 Edition  
     Boardman Township Community Day will be held Saturday, Sept. 14 at Boardman Park. The event opens at 4:30 p.m. and includes a 6:30 p.m. performance by No Funk No Justice at the Maag Outdoor Arts Theater, followed by fireworks. The event is free and open to the public.
      “Boardman Community Day impacts our community by providing an opportunity for the residents of Boardman Township to celebrate our history and fellowship with one another,” Karen McCallum, recreation and engagement director Boardman Park, said.
      Local township and park officials have worked together to organize the event.
      Schedule of Events
      4:30-6:30 p.m.: Community activities such as Touch a Truck vehicles, community tables, face painting, Painting the Plow, music, and inflatable activities.
      6:30 p.m.: Live, local music performed by No Funk No Justice; followed by fireworks.
  Stephen Flores Named New Boardman Cage Coach  
  Seven Lettermen Return For 2024-25 Season:   September 5, 2024 Edition  
     Meeting in August, the Boardman Board of Education approved Stephen Flores, 45, as the new head coach of the Boardman Spartans basketball team. He replaces longtime mentor Pat Birch who resigned to become assistant principal at Center Middle School.
      Flores has served as an assistant coach for Spartan cage programs since 2020.
      He takes over a team that went 5-19 a season ago, and that returns seven lettermen from a season ago.
      Boardman opens the 2024-25 cage campaign on Tues., Dec. 3 at Uniontown Lake.
      Prior to joining the Boardman program, Flores served as a middle school cage coach with Canfield Local Schools from 2018-2020; and previously was a basketball coach in the Youngstown City Schools for 15 years.
      Flores played prep ball at East Liverpool where he was a four year letterman, a three-time All-Ohio selection and a 1,000 point scorer.
      He played collegiately for two seasons at the University of Pittsburgh, and then played two years at Youngstown State, serving as a captain of the Penguins during his senior year.
      Flores was awarded a supplemental contract ($9,597) to lead the Spartans basketball program.
  $10,800 Contract Okayed For Adapted Physical Education Class  
  August 29, 2024 Edition  
      Meeting on Mon., Aug. 26, the Boardman Board of Education approved a contract for some $10,800 to provide adapted physical education classes of 45 minutes each, once a week, to special education students at Robinwood Lane, Stadium Dr. and West Blvd. Elementary Schools, as well as at Center Intermediate School. The adapted classes will be taught to Glenwood Jr. High School and Boardman High School special education students in a combined class. According to Jennifer Scarmack, director of students services at Boardman Local Schools, approximately 40 students will participate in the program. The contract was awarded to Gymsters, ‘The Fitness Program That Comes to Children at Their School.’ According to the agenda of the school board, Gymsters is operated out of 6930 Lockwood Blvd., a single family home owned by David and Elizabeth O’Hara, according to the Mahoning County Auditor’s Office. Classes include motor development, fitness, sports skills and group/team games.
  Tom Varley named to Boardman School Board  
  August 29, 2024 Edition  
Tom Varley
      The Boardman Board of Education has selected Thomas Varley, 46, of Boardman, as the newest member of it five-person board.
      Varley was among some 20 persons who expressed an interest in the post following the resignation in August of Frank Zetts. He will fill the seat vacated by Zetts resignation until Dec. 31, 2025
      “ I have thought a lot as to what my next role would be in helping our community. This position is one that I feel will fit me best at this stage of my life,” Varley said in a letter of interest he sent to the school board.
      “This opportunity will offer me great insight and experience to run a good campaign in the future for this same seat. My goal, if selected, is to add as much value as possible and be a part of this great team for as long as I can,” he added.
      Varley joins John Fryda, board president; and Candace Rivera, Vickie Davis and John Landers on the school board.
      He and his wife, Kim, are the parents of four children, one a Boardman High School graduate and three more who are currently enrolled in the system.
      Varley is a graduate of Cardinal Mooney High School and earned a bachelor’s degree in business from Youngstown State University.
      Since 2011, he has served as director of human resources at Compco, a tank-head firm located in Columbiana, where he is responsible for overseeing the day-to-day functions of the Human Resources Department.
      “With my professional experience in service, I believe I can be a great asset and addition to the school board and help in continuing the growth throughout our entire district,” Varley said.
      He currently serves as a member of the Boardman Township Zoning Board of Appeals and is a member of the Boardman Schools Fund for Educational Excellence.
      The school board granted interviews to ten candidates who expressed an interest in the school board seat. In addition to Varley, they were Cristina Beggs, teacher at West Boulevard Elementary School; Tom Davis, former principal of Carrollton High School, Springfield Local High School and Bell-Herron Middle School; Jenna Fox, assistant director of enrollment management at Kent State University/Trumbull campus; Jason Loree, Boardman Township administrator; Yasmine Makridis, attorney with the Northern District of Ohio U.S. Attorney’s Office; Debra Mettee, former superintendent in the Springfield Local School District; R. Scott Murray, a Boardman firefighter; Anthony Valentini, director of sales for City Printing; and Thomas Wakefield, chair of the department of math and statistics at Youngstown State University.
     
  Corey Linsley, Best Center In Pro Football: “Everything You Hope For And More”  
  Consummate Professional, Mentorship of Younger Players, Work Ethic, Integrity, Leadership, Competitive Drive and Sense of Humor:   August 22, 2024 Edition  
      In early June, the Los Angeles Chargers announced the release of center Corey Linsley.
      Linsley, a three-year team captain, was the Chargers’ 2021 Walter Payton NFL Man of the Year nominee for his work in the community, particularly with Court Appointed Special Advocates (CASA). He was regarded as the best center in football when he joined Los Angeles in 2021, earning Pro Bowl recognition and second-team All-Pro honors from the Associated Press in his first season with the Chargers. Linsley led the line that year to protect quarterback Justin Herbert to his first Pro Bowl selection along with setting single-season franchise records in completions (443), passing yards (5,014) and passing touchdowns (38).
      Health issues forced the Boardman native into retirement.
      “Corey is everything you hope for and more in an NFL player,” said President of Football Operations John Spanos. “The consummate professional, his mentorship of younger players, work ethic, integrity, leadership, competitive drive and sense of humor all played a role in earning him the ‘C’ on his jersey throughout the entirety of his time with us. And as good of a football player as he is, Corey’s an even better person.
      “To that end, at a time when he and his wife, Anna, were growing their family from two children to four while with the Chargers, they still made it a priority to serve the community as passionate advocates for CASA — work that earned Corey not one, but two Walter Payton Man of the Year nominations during his career.
      “While he has taken his last snap in the NFL, Corey’s story is far from being written. We cannot wait to see what the next chapter has in store for the Linsleys, and we wish Corey, Anna, Seamus, Killian, Quinn and Ruth all the best moving forward.”
      A fifth-round choice by Green Bay in 2014, Linsley started all 144 career games with the Packers and Chargers. He was an AP first-team All-Pro in 2020 with Green Bay, coordinating the protection for quarterback Aaron Rodgers to win his third Most Valuable Player award after throwing 48 touchdowns and just five interceptions.
      Linsley’s excellence on the field is equally matched by his commitment to helping children. Throughout his career, Linsley has been a staunch supporter of CASA, a volunteer-based nonprofit organization that provides a voice for abused and neglected children who are under the legal protection of the court system through no fault of their own. Both Linsley and his wife, Anna, served as CASA advocates while in Green Bay and Los Angeles, ensuring children and families have equitable access to the resources and support they need to thrive.
      Linsley is a 2009 graduate of Boardman High School where earned three letters each---in football and track. He was a two-time All-Ohio pick in football and a state champ in the discus. He went on to play at Ohio State where he earned All Big 10 laurels. Following graduation in 2013, he was drafted by the Green Bay Packers. Linsley will be inducted in September into the Boardman High School Hall of Fame.
  School Board Okays $26,857 In Payments To Families Whose Bus Routes Are Declared Impractical  
  August 15, 2024 Edition  
     BY JOHN A. DARNELL JR.
      associate editor
      At its July meeting, the Boardman Board of Education declared school transportation services impractical for 46 students.
      Consistent with that resolution, reimbursement of $26,857.56 (or $583.86/per student) will be made to the parents and/or guardians of those 46 students.
      “State law allows districts to determine that transportation for a student eligible for transportation is impractical only after considering six factors. Determination of impracticality is made at the individual student level.
      “Factors used to determine impracticality do not include the type of school (district, chartered nonpublic or community) attended by a student,” Supt. Chris Neifer said.
      According to the agenda of the school board, students whose transportation to school whose bus routes were determined to be impractical are---
      Brook Campbell, Peyton Campbell, Alexander Haase, Luke Houck, Julianna Ramos, Molly Simons, Charlie Phillips, Crew Phillips, Carley Shevock, Ella Szari, Emma Szari, Rebekah Turner, Gracie Unger, Lazarus Millich, Jackson Simons, Taylor Simons, Nicholas Spanos, Deegan Talbott, Angela Thomas, Olivia Thomas, Delaney Vass,
      Michael Coleman, Jacob McGinnis, Cherish Flowers, Marissa Baulo, Spencer Baulo, Connor Buzzacco, Ava Carbon, Evan Davis, Martin Davis, Emma Davies, Giulianna Flauto, Kendall Gozur, Jack Haluska, Christine Lopatta, Ella Moore, Dominic Pinciaro, Alyssa Puhalla, Andrew Puhalla, William Rabel, Addison Rin, Preston Stephens, Osiron Talbot, Nicole Thomas, Wilson Wang and Tarell Wilson.
      State law requires public or community school district to consider six factors when determining the practicality of a bus route. Those factors are---
       • (1) The time and distance required to provide the transportation;
       •(2) The number of pupils to be transported;
       •(3) The cost of providing transportation in terms of equipment, maintenance, personnel, and administration;
       •(4) Whether similar or equivalent service is provided to other pupils eligible for transportation;
       •(5) Whether and to what extent the additional service unavoidably disrupts current transportation schedules;
       •(6) Whether other reimbursable types of transportation are available.
      State law requires that “the [school board ]or governing authority shall issue a letter to the pupil’s parent, guardian, or other person in charge of the pupil, the nonpublic or community school in which the pupil is enrolled, and to the department with a detailed description of the reasons for which such determination was made.”
      A request made to Supt. Neifer for a listing of the bus routes that have been declared impractical have not been answered.
     
  New United Way Facility Honors Memory Of Fr. Tim O’Neill, Known As A Difference Maker  
  Ribbon Cutting Ceremonies Held Last Week:   August 15, 2024 Edition  
     Ribbon cutting ceremonies were held last week for the new United Way of Youngstown and Mahoning Valley distribution center at 8133 Market St, that carries the names of its major benefactors, including the Centofanti family, and John and Denise York. The large warehouse at the site honors the late Fr. Tim O’Neill.
      Fr. O’Neill, a graduate of Ursuline High School, who served as an inspiration to many people in the Mahoning Valley, died in Oct., 2021.
      He was ordained on May 27, 1967 by the Most Reverend James W. Malone, Bishop of Youngstown, in the Cathedral of St. Columba. Following ordination he served as associate pastor of St. Michael the Archangel Parish in Canton and as Stark County Director of the Catholic Youth Organization (CYO). He joined the faculty at Youngstown Cardinal Mooney in 1970, teaching religion and serving as chaplain for the school’s athletic teams for nearly two decades.
      Fr. O’Neill retired in 2015 after 22 years at St. Patrick’s Church in Hubbard, and also spent time as the pastor at St. Michael’s in Canfield and St. Paul’s in New Middletown.
      Father O’Neill lived by the mantra “Unselfish giving equals happiness.”
      His unselfish giving was evident with the many awards he received over the years. Besides his dedication as a teacher and pastor, Fr. O’Neill co-founded The Difference Makers, a charitable nonprofit organization dedicated to helping those in need, especially children.
      In 2009 he was selected by the Youngstown Hearing and Speech Center that is headquartered in Boiardman as a Great Communicator honoree “for his outstanding contribution to communications and service to the community.” He served as a member of the board and volunteer counselor at the Neil Kennedy Recovery Clinic.
      Father O’Neill also received the prestigious “Ellis Island Medal of Honor” from the National Ethnic Coalition of Organizations, the highest award granted to American citizens.
      While at Cardinal Mooney, Ft. O’Neill had a favorite saying he would often relate to students--- “Just be.”
      Fr. O’Neill never forgot a name, and was known for caring for others. He inspired many people.
      Upon his retirement he noted “I’ve always been drawn to helping people.” That legacy is now remembered in the new United Way facility’s warehouse, appropriately named Fr. Tim O’Neill’s Difference Maker’s Warehouse, that display the words “The key to happiness is a life of unselfish giving.”
  Birch Leaves Head Coaching Position To Become Assistant Principal At Center Intermediate School  
  August 8, 2024 Edition  
      The Boardman Local School Board is looking for a new varsity boys head basketball coach following the appointment of Patrick Birch to the position of assistant principal at Center Intermediate School.
      Meeting last week, the school board granted Birch a three-year, 215-day per year contract as assistant principal, effective August 1 through July 31, 2027.
      As an assistant principal, Birch will receive an annual salary of $82,806. He previously served the system as a high school social studies teacher.
      Birch also served for 12 years as Boardman head basketball coach, compiling an overall record of 135-145 that included four, straight All American Conference hoop titles, from 2018-2022.
      Since that time, the Spartans cage team has lost 15 of its last 16 league games.
      The school board also approved Michelle Peters as administrative assistant to new Supt. Chris Neifer. Peters replaces Robin Triveri and has been granted a three year contract, beginning with an annual salary of $55,261.
      The school board granted limited, one-year contracts to the following---
       •Lauren Commarata was granted a one-year limited contract as an intervention specialist at Center Intermediate School replacing Joe Ignazio. Commarata received her bachelor’s degree from Youngstown State University. Ignazio left the Boardman Local School to join the Canfield Local School District where he is the new head football coach.
       •Mariah McKeen was granted a one-year limited contract as an elementary art teacher at Robinwood Lane, Stadium Drive, and West Boulevard Elementary Schools replacing Susan Farkas. McKeen received her bachelor’s degree from Ohio State University.
       •Colleen Murray was granted a one-year limited contract as an EL teacher at Glenwood Junior High School replacing Debbie Huck. Murray received her bachelor’s degree from Youngstown State University and her master’s degree from Ashland University.
       •Kathryn Butto was granted a one-year limited contract as a health aide at Robinwood Lane replacing Amy Carkido.
       •Kailyn Clark was granted a one-year limited contract as a teacher aide at West Boulevard Elementary School. This is a new position.
       •Kathryn Kibby was granted a one-year limited contract as a full-contract bus driver replacing Harold Penwell.
       •Kevin O’Donnell was granted a one-year limited contract as a full-contract bus driver replacing Michelle Gardner.
       •Jakob Owens was granted a one-year limited contract as a cleaning staff at Stadium Drive Elementary School replacing Margaret Corey.
       •Stephanie Penwell was granted a one-year limited contract as a teacher aide at Center Intermediate School and will receive the intensive needs stipend. She will be replacing Molly Lloyd.
      The school board awarded supplemental contracts to Erica DiFrancesco, high school girls assistant basketball coach, $5292; and Jen Flores and Mark Lias, fall athletic assistants, $945 each.
      Pupil activity contracts were awarded to Kristin Conroy, district lead mentor, $3024; Allison O’Brien, high school open gym supervisor, $1890; Jenna Vaughn, freshman cheerleading assistant, $2646; and Tyler Terlesky, freshman football assistant coach, $2646.
      Approved as curriculum coaches were Kristin Conroy, math coach at a rate of $28/hour not to exceed $826 per week (to be paid from Title IIA funds); Lisa Hughes, literacy coach at a rate of $28/hour and not to exceed $826 per week (to be paid from Title IIA funds); and Lori O’Heren, gifted coach at a rate of $28/hour and not to exceed $826 per week.
      Conroy also was appointed as Title I coordinator and will receive a stipend of $11,000 for that post.
      Stipends of $1500 each were awarded to Carlo Cordon, Scott Lenhart, Jonathan Linko, Greg McAtee, David Nypaver and Mike Shevock to provide morning supervision at Glenwood Jr. High School.
  Boardman Local School Policy On Public Comments At Board Meetings  
  August 8, 2024 Edition  
     PUBLIC PARTICIPATION
      The Boardman Board of Education recognizes the value to school governance of public comment on educational issues and the importance of allowing members of the public to express themselves on school matters of community interest. The Board offers public participation to members of the public in accordance with the procedures below. The Board applies these procedures to all speakers and does not discriminate based on the identity of the speaker, content of the speech, or viewpoint of the speaker.
      The Board is also committed to conducting its meetings in a productive and efficient manner that assures that the regular agenda of the Board is completed in a reasonable period of time, honors the voluntary nature of the Board’s time and using that time efficiently, and allows for a fair and adequate opportunity for input to be considered. Consequently, public participation at Board meetings will be governed by the following principle:
      In order to permit the fair and orderly expression of such comment, the Board shall provide a period for public participation at every regular meeting of the Board and publish rules to govern such participation in Board meetings.
      The presiding officer of each Board meeting at which public participation is permitted shall administer the rules of the Board for its conduct.
      The presiding officer shall be guided by the following rules:
       •Public participation shall be permitted as indicated on the order of business.
       •Attendees must register their intention to participate in the public portion of the meeting upon their arrival at the meeting.
       •Individuals may not register others to speak during public participation.
       •Participants must first be recognized by the presiding officer and will be requested to preface their comments by an announcement of their name, address, and group affiliation, if and when appropriate.
       •Each statement made by a participant shall be limited to five (5) minutes duration unless extended by the presiding officer.
       •During the portion of the meeting designated for public participation, no participant may speak more than once on the same topic unless all others who wish to speak on that topic have been heard.
       •All statements shall be directed to the presiding officer; no person may address or question Board members individually.
      Audio or video recordings are permitted. The person operating the recorder should contact the Superintendent prior to the Board meeting to review possible placement of the equipment, and must agree to abide by the following conditions:
       •No obstructions are created between the Board and the audience.
       •No interviews are conducted in the meeting room while the Board is in session.
       •No commentary, adjustment of equipment, or positioning of operators is made that would distract either the Board or members of the audience while the Board is in session and not disrupt the meeting.
      The presiding officer may:
       •Interrupt, warn, or terminate a participant’s session when they make comments that are repetitive, obscene, and/or comments that constitute a true threat (i.e., statements meant to frighten or intimidate one (1) or more specified persons into believing that they will be seriously harmed by the speaker or someone acting at the speaker’s behest);
       •Request any individual to stop speaking and/or leave the meeting when that person does not observe reasonable decorum or is disruptive to the conduct and/or orderly progress of the meeting;
       •Request the assistance of law enforcement officers in the removal of a disorderly person when that person’s conduct interferes with the conduct and/or orderly progress of the meeting;
       •Call for a recess or an adjournment to another time when the lack of public decorum so interferes with the orderly conduct of the meeting as to warrant such action;
       •Waive these rules with the approval of the Board when necessary for the protection of privacy or the administration of the Board’s business.
      The portion of the meeting during which the participation of the public is invited shall be limited to thirty (30) minutes unless extended by a vote of the Board.
  Police Told BHS Soccer Coach Sent Inappropriate Text Messages, Photo To Female Student  
  August 1, 2024 Edition  
     BY JOHN A. DARNELL JR.
      associate editor
      An investigation is on-going into allegations that an assistant Boardman High School soccer coach sent what are described as “inappropriate text messages” to a girl at Boardman High School.
      The mother of the child, and her daughter, have informed Boardman police the girl’s interaction with the assistant soccer coach began when the coach started following the girl on a social media platform.
      “After some time, they began sending direct text messages to each other.
      “At first it was just friendly conversation, but the [coach] began to make the conversations sexual in nature,” the police were told.
      It is alleged the coach “would continually compliment [the girl] on her appearance and say he would love to make-out with her...and would make references to the fact that he wished there weren’t any cameras around her...residence so he could sneak over and kiss her.”
      Police were told the sexual in nature conversations escalated and [the coach] sent [the girl] an explicit photograph.
      According to the mother and daughter, the text messaging began sometime in Oct., 2023 and continued until the beginning of 2024.
      The student said she did not have any contact with [the coach] for a couple of months, then he sent the girl another ‘follow request’ on Instagram.
      Police were told the girl declined the request and then blocked the man from her account, and that she has not had any contact with [the coach] since then.
      Investigation into the matter has been assigned to Det. Michele Glaros.
  Beloved Local Musician, Sean Baran, Loses Life In Car-Pedestrian Accident  
  At Market St. and Fairlawn:   August 1, 2024 Edition  
     A pedestrian lost his life on Fri., July 26 shortly after noon after being struck by a car near Fairlawn Ave. and Market St.
      Pronounced dead at the scene was 35-year-old Sean Baran, of Chester Dr., a talented musician who served for nine years as organist at Boardman United Methodist Church.
      The Ohio State Highway Patrol said that Baran was walking eastbound on Fairlawn Ave. when a 2004 Volkswagon GTI was traveling southbound. The OSP said that Baran walked into the lane of travel and was struck by the vehicle.
      While at Boardman United Methodist Church, Baran’s love for music breathed new life into the church where he blended music with community engagement.
      Concerts organized by Baran brought together multiple church choirs to raise money for the American Guild of Organists and the Boardman High School Choirs. Performances of holiday piano music at the Mill Creek Metroparks Fellows Riverside Gardens allowed his music to be heard by more casual audiences.
      Baran served as the Youngstown Symphony Orchestra’s ensemble keyboardist during their 2018/2019 Stained-Glass and Classics series. In addition to his musical endeavors, Sean was an advocate for Youngstown and Mill Creek Park was a member of the Mill Creek Metroparks’ Environmental Advisory Committee.
      At the age of 5-years-old, Baran recalled he knew that he wanted to play the piano.
      He began to pursue his dream at the age of 11, when he was able to start taking piano lessons from Dorothy Schwers, who had a lifelong impact on Sean.
      “She inspired me to play and to love music, showing me that music expresses the beauty of the world,” Baran recalled.
      He loved to perform and share music with people. He said “it’s like opening a diary, and spilling out your thoughts.”
      A valedictorian at Austintown Fitch High School in 2007, Baran went on to become a summa cum laude from Youngstown State University’s Dana School of Music, earning bachelor and master’s degrees in music performance. He was a graduate teaching assistant while attending YSU, and currently teaches keyboard musicianship, and music theory courses at the university.
      In 2010, Baran won the Dana Young Artist Contest, which led to a performance of the Tchaikovsky Piano Concerto with the Dana Orchestra.
      After earning his master’s degree in 2014, Baran was accepted to participate in the Zodiac Music Academy and Festival in southern France.
      For many years, he performed an annual May concert for the Youngstown Area Federation of Women’s Cubs, Inc.
      Catherine Campana, President of YAFWC, said the group looked forward to his recital every year.
      Teaching was Baran’s real passion.
      “To be able to inspire students to see music as an art form, like a painting, music is an expression of oneself,” Baran said in a 2016 interview with The Boardman News.
      He started teaching piano lessons in 2008. He had a private piano studio and says he is like a traveling teacher, also instructing YSU students, cultivating in them the desire to someday teach. His students frequently received the highest ratings at local adjudicated events and can be heard throughout the area in recitals and in master classes.
      Baran previously served as president of the Young Music Teachers Association and was a member of the American Guild of Organists that embraces all who enjoy and promote worship through music and song.
      In conjunction with Youngstown State University’s Dana School of Music and Valley Christian School’s Lewis Center, Baran organized a Summer Piano Camp where third to eighth graders participated with varying levels of piano and music knowledge, ending the camp with a recital.
      To help students get over the fear of performing, and to help inspire them to learn and enjoy music, Baran created The Ribbon Festival that was held at Bliss Hall.
      Many of us have dreams and goals we wish to achieve. Sean Baran lived his dream. He loved music, from performing piano recitals, playing the 70-year-old pipe organ at Boardman United Methodist Church, to teaching youth to play and enjoy music, or preparing college students to teach music with a passion.
      Music is an expression of oneself, an art form, that Baran loved and used as a tool to perform and teach to the world around him.
  Former St. Charles, Boardman Schools Bus Driver Carl Will Reaches A Milestone---100th Birthday  
  Served With Army Air Corps During World War II:   August 1, 2024 Edition  
     A former Boardman Local School bus driver, Carl E. Will, was honored last week at the Inn at Ironwood on his 100th birthday.
      Mr. Will is among an elite group of an estimated 70,000 U.S. World War II veterans still alive.
      Carl Will was born in Youngstown, Oh. on July 28, 1924. He is the youngest of five children born to Carl, Sr. and Bessie (Harbor) Will and grew up on West Delason Ave. on the city’s southside.
      He attended Princeton and South High Schools and entered the U.S. Army Air Corps in November, 1942. He was a TSGT Radio Operator and Waist Gunner with the 15th Army Air Force 464th Bomb Group on a B24 Liberator heavy bomber in the WW II European Theater of Operation.
      Based in Pantanella, Italy for eight months he flew 50 missions over enemy territory. He returned to the United States only to later serve an additional four months in the China-Burma-India theater of operation where he flew and drove supplies to China across the Himalayas ‘Hump.’
      Mr. Will was honorably discharged in August, 1945. He earned a European ribbon with five bronze stars, a distinguished air medal with three oak leaf clusters, an Asian Pacific ribbon with one bronze star, and a Purple Heart.
      In August 1945, Carl returned to Boardman and his job on the Erie Lackawanna Railroad as an engineer. He and his wife and their three young children moved to Western Reserve Rd. in 1950. As a fireman on the Erie Lackawana Railroad, he was often ‘furloughed,’ and to make ends meet, he became a school bus driver, initially with St. Charles Parochial School, and then for Boardman Local Schools. He retired in 1974.
      Mr. Will made the end of the school year special for the students he took to and from school, giving each an ice cream treat.
      His second wife, Shirley, was also a Boardman bus driver and Carl’s ‘regular substitute driver’ when he couldn’t get home from the railroad in time.
      He and his first wife, Mildred, married in February, 1947 and enjoyed 31 years together until her passing in 1978. He took his family to many national parks across the country during the summers. Carl and Millie raised their family on Western Reserve Rd. where he owned and operated a Volkswagen repair shop for many years.
      Carl was also a bus driver for Boardman Local Schools and was proud of his many Safe Driver awards.
      He married his second wife, Shirley Wittkugle, in 1982. He and Shirley traveled to nearly all the continental states in their RV and through Canada to The Alaskan Trail. They settled in Thonotassa, Fla. near Tampa and enjoyed retirement years there with many good friends. They were married 27 years until Shirley’s passing in 2010. Carl returned to Ohio in 2015.
      Carl has five children, Tom (Margaret) Will of Canfield, Jan Daley of Columbiana, Patricia Will of East Liverpool and Linda (Dave) Skillman of Columbiana. A son, David Will, is deceased. He also has two stepdaughters, Linda Oma and Laurie Wittkugle. Carl has eight grandchildren, four step-grandchildren, and 21 great-grandchildren.
      Mr. Will said the key to a long life--- ‘do what you want!’
      “Do what you to do. They always said the Lord takes the good ones - I must’ve been bad since I’m still here,” Will said.
     
  Rudzik Excavating Awarded $3.629 Million Contract To Build Forest Lawn Stormwater Park  
  Construction To Be Completed Next Summer:   July 25, 2024 Edition  
     BY JOHN A. DARNELL JR.
      associate editor
      Rudzik Excavating has been awarded a $3.629 million contract by the ABC Water and Stormwater District to construct a stormwater park on the site of the former Market St. Elementary School, 5555 Market St.
      The stormwater park was officially announced in the fall of 2021 as a collaborative project of Boardman Township Trustees, the water and stormwater district, as well as Mahoning County commissioners and state and federal agencies.
      Work on the project is expected to begin within a week, beginning with the relocation of sanitary sewer lines, Boardman Township Administrator Jason Loree said. Project completion is set for the summer of 2025.
      According to Boardman Township officials, once completed, the Forest Lawn Stormwater Park will provide improved surface water flows impacting up to 1,400 homes; and will include the creation of a passive park where people can gather and walk along a lighted sidewalk.
      During heavy rainfalls, the project will be able to hold up to the equivalent of 9-feet of water spread over the surface the size of a football field.
      Funding for the project includes a $2.165 hazard mitigation grant provided by the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA), a $1 million grant from Mahoning County commissioners using ARPA funds, the donation of the property from the Boardman Local School District and a $500,000 state capital grant that will provides funding for the demolition of Market St. Elementary School.
      “Forest Lawn Stormwater Park will help solve a long-standing issue of flooding in the neighborhood during heavy rain events and improve water quality in the Anderson Run – Mill Creek watershed. The project involves opening 700 ft. of a culverted stormwater system that runs underneath the property. This stream will be naturalized by creating a winding waterway that will flow through the Market St. property. Floodplains will be created and native species planted. A walking path will be installed around the area and viewing platforms will be available to encourage watching wildlife that will be attracted to the natural area,” Loree said, adding “the ABC Water and Stormwater District would be unable to complete this project without the support of a number of partners. The support from partners has resulted in a successful effort to obtain funds to complete the project.”
      Additionally, phase two of the project will be the construction of an environmental education pavilion project at a cost of $750,000, funded by an Ohio Capital Grant.
      Once completed, the Forest Lawn Stormwater Park will be the largest regional detention system in Mahoning County and will be one of the few such projects in the state of Ohio.
  Trustees Approve Tax Levy Issues On November Ballot  
  Consider Limitations On Car Washes, Storage Units:   July 25, 2024 Edition  
      Meeting on Monday night, Boardman Township Trustees approved a resolution to place a 6/10-mill renewal issue on the Nov. 5 general election ballot for Boardman Park.
      In brief remarks to the Board of Trustees, Liam Jones, a member of the park’s Board of Commissioners, said the levy raises $570,000 for the park, about 38 per cent of its annual budget.
      Jones noted the issue will cost taxpayers “no new money” and is needed to “make sure the Green Oasis remains as beautiful as ever.”
      Township Trustees also approved second readings of resolutions to place a 3/10-mill road and bridge renewal issue before the electorate, as well as a 4.5-mill additional levy to fund the fire department and its EMS services.
      Fire Chief Mark Pitzer noted through the first six months of the year, his department has made 160 transports with its ambulance service.
      “The need is definitely there,” Pitzer said, adding “It is definitely an essential service.”
      Trustee Brad Calhoun said township officials are available to speak with community groups about the Fire/EMS levy and groups and individuals can contact Township Administrator Jason Loree to schedule levy forums.
      In approving the levy requests, Trustee Tom Costello noted EMS services are hard to obtain through the private sector and currently only two private ambulance companies are operating in Mahoning County.
      “Our community has been very supportive of services provided by Boardman Park and Boardman Township,” Costello said.
      Prior to the regularly scheduled meeting, a hearing was held on zoning amendments designed to limit the number of storage units and car washes in Boardman Township advanced to a second reading during a hearing before the Board of Trustees.
      The amendments have been recommended for approval by the Boardman Township Zoning Commission.
      Trustee Larry Moliterno indicated issues with noise associated with car washes is a concern.
      According to recommendations provided by T.J. Keiran, director of planning/zoning, the amendments will require conditional use permits for self storage and vehicle washing facilities.
      Keiran said storage units and car washes “are vehicle-oriented in such a way as to diminish from the character of a commercial corridor, and...have a deleterious effect on both the existing businesses around them and surrounding residential areas adjacent to them, potentially downgrading property values.
      “Boardman Township has enough of these uses to serve its population and very little vacant lands for uses that do not generate employment, nor retail tax revenue.”
      Another hearing on the amendments will be held on Aug. 12.
  Mahoning Valley Slovak Fest  
  July 18, 2024 Edition  
     THE 19th ANNUAL MAHONING VALLEY SLOVAK FEST will be held Sun., Aug. 11, from noon to 5:00 p.m. at St. Matthias Church, 2800 Shady Run Rd. A feature of the event will be music and entertainment by Gorska Muzicka, a group of student folk singers from Orava, Slovakia. There will also be a grand basket raffle, loads of Slovak foods, a bake sale, a Salvadoran Papusas and other raffles. This year’s Slovak Fest also features an evening of music and food on Fri., Aug. 9, from 6:00 p.m. to 9:00 p.m. at St. Christine Parish Center, 3165 South Schenley Ave., where Gorska Muzicka will be a feature.
  Public School System Provides Services To 30 Students Who Are Defined as Homeless  
  ‘Homeless students will not be stigmatized or segregated on the basis of their status as homeless. The District shall establish safeguards that protect homeless students from discrimination’:   July 18, 2024 Edition  
     BY JOHN A. DARNELL JR.
      associate editor
      Did you know that among the some 3,834 students who were enrolled in the Boardman Local School District for the 2023-24 school year, 30 were considered homeless?
      The Boardman Local School System has a policy governing the education of homeless students. That policy notes “Children who are identified as meeting the federal definition of “homeless” will be provided a free appropriate public education (FAPE) in the same manner as all other students of the district.
      “To that end, homeless students will not be stigmatized or segregated on the basis of their status as homeless. The District shall establish safeguards that protect homeless students from discrimination on the basis of their homelessness. The District shall regularly review and revise its policies, including school discipline policies that impact homeless students or those who may be a member of any of the protected classes.”
      Based upon per pupil expenditures provided by a rating system, Niche, that is often cited by the Boardman Local Schools, cost to the local district to provide services to homeless children is at least $369,300 per year.
      Who are homeless children?
      According to school board policy, “Homeless children and youth are defined as individuals who lack a fixed, regular, and adequate nighttime residence, and include children and youth who meet any of the following criteria:
       •Share the housing of other persons due to loss of housing, economic hardship, or similar reason,
       •Live in motels, hotels, trailer parks, or camping grounds due to a lack of alternative adequate accommodations,
       •Live in emergency or transitional shelters,
       •Are abandoned in hospitals,
       •Have a primary night time residence that is a public or private place not designed for, or ordinarily used as, a regular sleeping accommodation for human beings, or
       •Live in a car, park, public space, abandoned building, substandard housing, bus or train station, or similar setting.
      “Pursuant to the McKinney-Vento Act, an unaccompanied youth includes a homeless child or youth not in the physical custody of a parent or guardian.
      “Additionally, pursuant to Federal and State law, migratory children who are living in circumstances described above are also considered homeless.”
      According to statistics provided by Boardman Local Schools, there were six homeless children who attended Boardman High School, as well as six homeless children who attended Glenwood Jr. High School last year. Additionally, eight students at Robinwood Lane Elementary School were classified as homeless, four students at Center Intermediate and West Blvd. Elementary were homeless, as were two students at Stadium Dr. Elementary School.
      Following is additional information on the Boardman Local School Board’s policy about homeless children---
     
      School Stability
      Maintaining a stable school environment is crucial to a homeless student’s success in school. To ensure stability, the District must make school placement determinations based on the “best interest” of the homeless child or youth based on student-centered factors. The District must:
       •Continue the student’s education in the school of origin for the duration of homelessness when a family becomes homeless between academic years or during an academic year; and for the remainder of the academic year even if the child or youth becomes permanently housed during an academic year; or
       •Enroll the student in any public school that non-homeless students who live in the attendance area in which the child or youth is actually living are eligible to attend.
      When determining a child or youth’s best interest, the District must assume that keeping the homeless student in the school of origin is in that student’s best interest, except when doing so is contrary to the request of the student’s parent or guardian, or the student if he or she is an unaccompanied youth. The school of origin is the school the student attended or enrolled in when permanently housed, including a public preschool. The school of origin also includes the designated receiving school at the next level for feeder school patterns, when the student completes the final grade level at the school of origin.
      When determining the student’s best interest, the District must also consider student-centered factors, including the impact of mobility on achievement, education, health, and safety of homeless students and give priority to the request of the student’s parent or guardian, or youth (if an unaccompanied youth). The District also considers the school placement of siblings when making this determination.
      If the District finds that it is not in the student’s best interest to attend the school of origin or the school requested by the parent or guardian, or unaccompanied youth, the District must provide the individual with a written explanation and reason for the determination in a manner and form understandable to the parent, guardian or unaccompanied youth. This written explanation will include appeal rights and be provided in a timely manner.
      Immediate Enrollment
      The District has an obligation to remove barriers to the enrollment and retention of homeless students. A school chosen on the basis of a best interest determination must immediately enroll the homeless student, even if the student does not have the documentation typically necessary for enrollment, such as immunization and other required health records, proof of residency, proof of guardianship, birth certificate or previous academic records. The homeless student must also be enrolled immediately regardless of whether the student missed application or enrollment deadlines during the period of homelessness or has outstanding fines or fees.
      The enrolling school must immediately contact the school last attended by the homeless student to obtain relevant academic or other records. If the student needs immunization or other health records, the enrolling school must immediately refer the parent, guardian or unaccompanied youth to the local liaison, who will help obtain the immunizations, screenings or other required health records. Records usually maintained by the school must be kept so that they are available in a timely fashion if the child enters a new school or district. These records include immunization or other required health records, academic records, birth certificates, guardianship records, and evaluations for special services or programs. Procedures for inter-State records transfer between schools should be taken into account in order to facilitate immediate enrollment.
      In addition, the District will also make sure that, once identified for services, the homeless student is attending classes and not facing barriers to accessing academic and extracurricular activities, including magnet school, summer school, career and technical education, advanced placement, online learning, and charter school programs (if available).
      Transportation
      The District provides homeless students with transportation services that are comparable to those available to non-homeless students. The District also provides or arranges for transportation to and from the school of origin at the parent or guardian’s request, or the liaison’s request in the case of an unaccompanied youth. Transportation is arranged promptly to allow for immediate enrollment and will not create barriers to a homeless student’s attendance, retention, and success.
      If the homeless student continues to live in the District, where the school of origin is located, transportation will be provided or arranged for the student’s transportation to or from the school of origin.
      If the homeless student moves to an area served by another district, though continuing his/her education at the school of origin (which is in the District), the District and the district in which the student resides must agree upon a method to apportion responsibility and costs for transportation to the school of origin. If the districts cannot agree upon such a method, the responsibility and costs will be shared equally.
      When the student obtains permanent housing, transportation shall be provided to and from the school of origin until the end of the school year.
      The District determines the mode of transportation in consultation with the parent or guardian and based on the best interest of the student.
      In accordance with Federal law, the above transportation requirements still apply during the resolution of any dispute. The District will work with the State to resolve transportation disputes with other districts. If the disputing district is in another State, the District will turn to the State for assistance as Federal guidance says that both States should try to arrange an agreement for the districts.
      Dispute Resolution
      Homeless families and youths have the right to challenge placement and enrollment decisions. If a dispute arises between a school and a parent, guardian or unaccompanied youth regarding eligibility, school selection, or enrollment of a homeless student, the District must follow its dispute resolution procedures, consistent with the State’s procedures. If such a dispute occurs, the District will immediately enroll the homeless student in the school in which enrollment is sought pending final resolution of the dispute, including all appeals. The student will receive all services for which they are eligible until all disputes and appeals are resolved.
      Pursuant to State, District and Board of Education policies, the District will provide the parent, guardian or unaccompanied youth with a written explanation of all decisions regarding school selection and enrollment made by the school, District, or State, along with a written explanation of appeal rights.
      The District’s notice and written explanation about the reason for its decision will include, at a minimum, an explanation of how the school reached its decision regarding eligibility, school selection, or enrollment, including 1) a description of the proposed or refused action by the school, 2) an explanation of why the action is proposed or refused, 3) a description of other options the school considered and why those options were rejected, 4) a description of any other relevant factors to the school’s decision and information related to the eligibility or best interest determination such as the facts, witnesses, and evidence relied upon and their sources, and 5) an appropriate timeline to ensure deadlines are not missed. The District must also include contact information for the Liaison and the State Coordinator, and a brief description of their roles. The District will also refer the parent, guardian or unaccompanied youth to the Liaison, who will carry out the dispute resolution process.
      The District ensures that all decisions and notices are drafted in a language and format appropriate for low-literacy, limited vision readers, and individuals with disabilities. For children and youth and/or parents or guardians who are English learners or whose dominant language is not English, the District will provide translation and interpretation services in connection with all phases of the dispute resolution process pursuant to Federal laws. The District will also provide electronic notices via email if the parent, guardian or unaccompanied youth has access to email followed by a written notice provided in person or sent by mail.
      Homeless Children in Preschool
      Homeless preschool-aged children and their families shall be provided equal access to the educational services for which they are eligible, including preschool programs, including Head Start programs, administered by the District. Additionally, the homeless child must remain in the public preschool of origin, unless a determination is made that it is not in the child’s best interest. When making such a decision on the student’s best interest, the District takes into account the same factors as it does for any student, regardless of age. It also considers pre-school age specific factors, such as 1) the child’s attachment to preschool teachers and staff; 2) the impact of school climate on the child, including school safety; the quality and availability of services to meet the child’s needs, including health, developmental, and social-emotional needs; and 3) travel time to and from school.
      The District must also provide transportation services to the school of origin for a homeless child attending preschool. It is the District’s responsibility to provide the child with transportation to the school of origin even if the homeless preschooler who is enrolled in a public preschool in the District moves to another district that does not provide widely available or universal preschool.
     
  Gretta Knows......  
  This One Is For Joe!:   July 11, 2024 Edition  
     BY GWEN SMITH-DARNELL
      In collaboration with Gretta
      Hi Paws to all my fur-pal friends! It sure has been awhile since I have reached out to all of you. I cover my eyes with my paws in sadness, and apologize, but I have not forgotten you. I’ve allowed all the duties here in Pawprints Paradise to take me away from sharing moments with you, my fur-ever friends.
      Isn’t this how we all have been at times? Our everyday duties and obligations take up all the hours in the day, leaving no time left to spend with the people we care about the most. Life passes by so quickly. We lose precious time that we will never get back, and can never redo.
      So many fur-pals that arrive here in Pawprints Paradise, bark that they wish they had just one more day to spend with their masters. Those whom they loved and cherished the most. Just one more time to take a walk together, play fetch together, sit together to feel their masters hands gently stroking their fur, sleeping next to them and feeling secure, or waiting at the door for their safe return and then receiving one of those luscious treats sharing the body wiggling excitement of seeing their master once again!
      I never stop watching you from this heavenly meadow hill perch! Sometimes I lie here alone, but usually all the heavenly fur-pals gather with me and we bark amongst ourselves as we watch the life we once knew in our past homes, towns and especially with you, go on. We howl with your joys and yelp for the struggles you sometimes face, either alone or with your fur-pals.
      Over the past week, a dear friend, Joe Dickey Jr., who touched my life with sincere kindness, was called to his heavenly home.
      I recall many times, whenever Joe was present, laughter usually filled the room. He lived life to the fullest. He’d take time out of his busy schedule to stop and pass on a kind word, or to put a smile on someone’s face.
      I remember when he expressed to my masters how much he enjoyed reading words from Gretta. Sometimes we all need a pawsitive word, and Joe touched many lives with words of encouragement, with his presence and unconditional love. When he saw a need, he was there to help in any way he could.
      I’ll hold Joe in my memories fur-ever, remembering how he made the community where he lived a better place and the people he met, giving them joy and words to make their tails wag, helping them to see the good in themselves.
      I’ll keep watching for Joe, for I never know when a familiar face from the past will come to take a walk over to Pawprints Paradise to see all the heavenly fur-pals.
      And knowing Joe, he’ll be sure to come, if only to spread his often-heard words of encouragement and kindness, because that’s just the way he always was.
      Be sure to take time from your busy lives to spend with the people and fur-pals who surround you.
      And, as always, ‘keep your tails awaggin!’
      Gretta, a Golden Retriever, spent almost 15 years at The Boardman News. She greeted all who entered with a wag of her tail! She made
      her journey to her heavenly home in
      November, 2012.
  Trustees Approve $948,560 Contract For Information Technology Services  
  Summer Road Resurfacing Program Will Cost $1.552 Million:   July 4, 2024 Edition  
     BY JOHN A. DARNELL JR.
      associate editor
      Meeting last week, Boardman Township Trustees approved two, five-year contracts for information technology services with a Pittsburgh, Pa.-based firm in the amount of $948,560.
      The township’s current information technology provider, Involta, Involta “will no longer be providing 24-hour helpdesk and network monitoring and backup service. They’re transitioning to a data center only,” Administrator Jason Loree said.
      Agreement for the information technology services was approved with a firm called idealintergrations and will serve all of Boardman Township’s departments, including Police, Fire and Road, as well as emergency dispatching and administrative offices.
      The agreement also includes back-up services.
      Boardman Road Superintendent Marilyn Kenner told the Board of Trustees the township’s annual summer road resurfacing program will begin in late July or early August at a cost of $1.552 million. Low bidder for the work is Lindy Paving.
      Funding for the work will be provided using sales tax monies, as well as $225,000 from an Ohio Public Works grant and $350,642 from an Ohio Public Works loan.
      Roadways scheduled for resurfacing are the following:
       •Straley Lane, from Timothy Lane to Schenley Ave.
       •Baymar Dr., from Straley Lane to the Youngstown City limits.
       •Bob-)-Link, from Straley Lane to the dead end.
       •Bob White Ct., from Bob-O-Link to a cul de sac;
       •Brookfield Ave., from market St. to Glenwood Ave.
       •Foxridge Dr., from Forestrdge Dr. to Oakridge Dr.
       •Ingram Dr., from Hitchcock Rd. to Glenwood Ave.
       •Harrrow Lane, from Mill Trace Rd. to Shelby Rd.
       •Sierra Madre, from Santa Fe Trail to Stadium Dr.
       •Chester Dr., from Overhill Rd. to Jennette Dr.
       •Southwoods Dr., from Market St. to California Ave.
       •Erskine Ave., from Montrose to the dead end.
       •Melrose Ave., from Market St. to Southern Blvd.
       •Wildwood Dr., from market St. to Glenwood Ave.
       •Wolosyn Circle, from Mathews Rd. to Sherian Rd.
       •Truesdale Rd., from Sheban Dr. to Lakeshore Dr.
       •Turnberry Dr., from Colleen to a cul de sac.
       •Fredricksburg, from Lockwood Blvd. to a cul de sac.
       •Ferncliiff, from Market St. to Southern Blvd.
       •Leighton Ave., from Market St. to Southern Blvd.
       •Wilda Ave., from Market St. to Southern Blvd.
       •Fairlawn, from Market St. to Chester Dr.
       •Johnston Place, from Alverne Dr. to the township boundary line.
       •Canavan, from Alverne to the township boundary line.
       •Alverne, from LeMoyne Ave. to the township boundary.
       •Leiskin Lane, from Lucerne to Dander Dr.
       •Lucerne, from Leisken Lane to Zander Dr.
       •Romaine Ave., from Market St. to Southern Blvd.
       •LeMoyne Ave., from LeMont to Canavan Dr.
       •Meadow Lane, from LeMont to a cul de sac.
       •Stoney Creek, from Crystal Dr. to Lost Creek.
       •Spring Garden Dr., from Crystal Dr. to Stoney Creek.
       •Spring Garden Ct., from Stoney Creek to a cul de sac.
      In other matters, Trustee recognized by resolution Ptl. Mike Salser upon his retirement from the Boardman Police Department after 21 years of service; and a new police officer, Ptl. Frank Innocenzi was sworn into office.
      Mark Luke, chairman of Boardman Township’s annual Memorial Day Parade. addressed the Board of Trustees, thanking all entities who participated in the 120th annual event.
      “Board is indeed ‘a nice place to call home’ and we must remain thankful that our community continues supporting this 120-year solemn tradition, remembering Americans who surrendered their lives upon the altar of freedom, that we may live in this country and continue our way of life,” Luke said.
  Owner Of Oles Ave. Apartment Buildings No Longer Capable Of Making Decisions  
  Properties Are Deteriorating:   July 4, 2024 Edition  
     Boardman Township officials have pledged to help property owners deal with two, six-plex apartment buildings that have fallen into a state of disrepair on Oles Ave.
      However, in attempting to provide assistance, residents of that neighborhood were told last week of a unique situation involving the properties---the property owner, identified as Dorothea Wydick---has health problems, including dementia and she is unable to make decisions regarding the properties, located at 1893 and 1897 Oles Ave.
      1893 Oles Ave. is $17,404 delinquent in property tax payments; and 1897 Oles Ave. is $17,548 delinquent in property tax payments, according to the Mahoning County Auditor’s Office.
      Oles Ave. residents attend last week meeting of the Boardman Board of Trustees to voice their concerns about the deteriorating conditions of the properties.
      “The property owner appears to have abandoned the buildings,” Boardman Fire Prevention Officer, Lt. Tom Donadee said, adding “she is unable to make decisions and we want to make sure we follow the proper process.”
      Donadee indicated if the landlord cannot make corrections, “the structures will be taken down, or possibly sold at a sheriff’s sale.”
      Donadee indicated the apartment building at 1893 Oles Ave. (where one person lives) does not have water service.
      Beth Duzzny, assistant director of planning/zoning said the last communication with the property owner was “two years ago.”
      Wydick also owns a single family residence at 7619 Red Fox Dr. in Boardman, and that property is $9837 delinquent in payment of property taxes.
      On June 13, the property at 1893 Oles Ave. was inspected by the Boardman Fire Department.
      A report on the inspection, completed by Fire Prevention Officer James Yocum, concludes “We have been out to this property numerous times since Sept. 2021. The building owner has not responded to anything we have sent. We have had no luck in contacting her in anyway, we have had MCSD do a welfare check with no luck.
      “This property is in poor condition with numerous violations and safety concerns. Just a few violations to mention...Electrical Ohio Fire Code 605.1, 605.5, and 605.6. OFC 906 Fire extinguishers, Smoke detectors 907.2.11.2, Housekeeping 508.1.5, C.O. detectors section 1103.9 administrative code 1201-7-7-09 section 915, and Penetrations IFC. 703.1.
      “There are also health concerns due to no running water and animal feces and mold in this structure. Firefighter safety concerns in the event of a structure fire, numerous penetrations throughout the structure, open windows and debris which will assist in fast fire spread.”
  Chad DeAngelo Named New Principal At CMIS  
  July 4, 2024 Edition  
     Meeting last week, the Boardman Local School Board named Chad DeAngelo as the new principal at Center Intermediate School.
      DeAngelo has been an assistant principal at Center Intermediate for the last three years and has been an educator in the Boardman Schools since 2011. He replaces Mike Masucci, who resigned last month after 30 years in public education, and after being awarded a three-year contract for the post in May.
      DeAngelo’s annual salary is $93,233.
      “I am very humbled and grateful to the board, as well as Supt. Saxton and Supt. Neifer for this opportunity. I cannot wait to continue the growth of our staff, students, and families at BCIS,” said DeAngelo.
      A Boardman alumni from the Class of 2006, DeAngelo served as a science teacher at Boardman High School, as well as an assistant swim coach for nearly a decade.
  Township Officials Available To Speak With Church/Civic Groups On EMS Issue  
  June 27, 2024 Edition  
     Boardman Township Administration and Fire Department officials are making themselves available to talk to community groups about the Fire Department’s
      Lifesaving EMS Initiative.
     
      A press release issued by Boardman Township says “Like most of the United States, Boardman is facing a ‘perfect storm,’ with an aging population, a substantial increase in EMS calls and a shortage of EMS companies and personnel. Township officials are considering putting a levy on the ballot in November to protect the health and safety of township residents by providing EMS coverage at all fire stations.” Earlier this month (in June), officials held an open house at the main fire station on Market St. At that meeting, Township Administrator Jason Loree and Fire Chief Mark Pitzer presented an informative slideshow and answered questions about the issue. Persons who are a member of a Boardman-based church or civic group that would like to hear more about the issue and/or host a presentation at your next meeting please call Chief Pitzer at (330) 726-4155 or email mpitzer@boardmantwp.com
     
  Female Whom Police Believe Could Be A Juvenile Booked Into Mahoning County Jail  
  June 27, 2024 Edition  
     BY JOHN A. DARNELL JR.
      associate editor
      An unknown female was booked into the Mahoning County Jail last week after an altercation with local police at Youngstown Skate, 7080 Tiffany Blvd.
      The female came to the attention of local authorities after a Canfield woman, Emily Plaskett, called Boardman police expressing concerns for the female’s welfare, whom she believed could be 14-15 years old,
      Plaskett said she was at a drive-thru in Cornersburg when she was approach by a female shortly after 7:00 p.m. on June 19. The female identified herself as ‘Dianna,’ and also used the names of ‘Sky’ and ‘Eclipse,’ according to police.
      “Dianna told Plaskett that she’s from North Carolina and was in town to meet with her partner, and her partner’s father, whom she met on-line,” Ptl. Makenzie Butcherine said, adding “Dianna said she needed to be at Youngstown Skate by 8:00 p.m., so Plaskett agreed to give her a ride.”
      Police said that ‘Dianna’ told Plaskett that an uber had dropped her off “in this area and she had no idea how to get to Youngstown Skate on her own.”
      When police located the female at Youngstown Skate, she said her name was “Deanna M. Patterson. She stated she was 19 or 20-years-old, but did not know her birthday,” Ptl. Joe Innocenzi said, noting the female had no identification and said she was from South Carolina.
      “The only items the female possessed with a name on it was a food stamp card from South Carolina with the name of Deanna Patterson on it,” Officer Innocenzi said, noting that he believed the female could be 15 to 20-years-old.
      “The female continued to give different birthdates and would not provide further information, only stating she is homeless,” Ptl. Innocenzi said.
      Boardman PD Ptl. Joe Lamping spoke with people who were with ‘Deanna’ inside Youngstown Skate.
      “Only one person in the group knew any information,” Ptl. Lamping said, noting the ‘one person’ said the female was 14-years-old “and stated she was running away from South Carolina due to the fact she was being raped.”
      As police continued to speak with ‘Deanna,’ she began yelling and at one point took off her shirt, exposing her breasts, Ptl. Innocenzi said.
      ‘Deanna’ was then advised she was going to be arrested for public indecency and according to police, began to fight with officers, kicking one officer and then attempting to bite officers’ hands and arms as they were trying to place her into handcuffs.
      Once cuffed, the female was placed into a cruiser where she began to strike her head against a partition and tried to bite herself.
      When Lt. Brian Habeger attempted to stop the female from hurting herself, she spit on him.
      The female was placed under arrest on charges of obstruction, assaulting a police officer and public indecency. She was taken to Mercy Health/Youngstown for evaluation.
      The next day, June 20, about 1:00 p.m., ‘Deanna’ was released from the hospital and turned over to Boardman police to be taken to the county jail.
      Boardman police said that Deanna had conversation with the jail staff where she claimed at one point in her life she was in foster care in Calhoun County, West Virginia. She said she never had a driver’s license and caseworkers in West Virginia assisted her in obtaining a social security card, but she did not possess the card that she needed in order to get food stamps in South Carolina.
  50 Years Ago, Boardman Man Was Reported As A Missing Person And Was Never Seen Again  
  What Ever Happened To John Robek?:   June 13, 2024 Edition  
     BY JOHN A. DARNELL JR.
      associate editor
      50 years ago, John Robek, 24, of 7033 Amherst Ave., left his home about 8:30 a.m. on May 31, 1974 to go groundhog hunting in Greenford, Oh. with his friend, Ken Swartz.
      Robek and Swartz were undercover agents who made drug buys for the Youngstown Police Department under the supervision of then Det. Jack Lynch, of the YPD.
      Robek was never seen again by his family. His father, John, and mother, Marian, died without ever knowing what happened to their son.
      According to Swartz, he drove himself and Robek to a site off Robbins Rd. in Greenford. After shooting a groundhog and placing it on a fence rail, the pair returned to Boardman and Swartz said he dropped-off Robek in the driveway of his home, sometime between noon and 12;30 p.m. Swartz said he then went home to have lunch with his wife.
      A ‘buy book’ kept by Robek and obtained by The Boardman News several years ago has a notation that Robek was supposed to make a drug transaction for a ‘lid’ of marihuana at 1:00 p.m. on May 31. Unlike many, other entries in the buy book, the location of the transaction is not noted.
      On the day Robek went missing, his father said he was having a load of topsoil delivered to his home, and told his son at 6:30 in the morning to move his car, that was parked in front of the home. The car was never moved. It was the last time Mr. Robek ever saw his son.
      “I know if our dad told John to move that car, he would,” says his sister, Marty, adding, “It was never moved.”
      So, what happened to John Robek? Over the course of 50 years, no one knows.
      Swartz, who now lives in Payson, Arizona, was asked if the disappearance of his friend still haunts him.
      “Yeah,” Swartz said, “because I didn’t now if someone was coming after me...I was just a wreck. I was pre-occupied with who might be standing outside my door.”
      Swartz said then Boardman Police Chief Grant L. Hess and Det. Lynch took him to Columbus, Oh. to undergo a lie detector test related to Robek’s disappearance.
      “I took it and I passed it,” Swartz said, adding “After that, Lynch said he was going to take the investigation in a new direction.”
      “Who killed John Robek, since you were the last guy to see him,” Swartz was asked?
      “I wasn’t,” Swartz replied, “somebody else was. Trust me on that.”
      John A. Robek was born Nov. 2, 1949. He grew up in Boardman. He attended St. Charles Elementary School and Cardinal Mooney High School as a freshman, and then transferred to Boardman High School for his sophomore through senior years of high school.
      While at Boardman HS, Robek played for the Boardman Spartans grid teams in his sophomore and junior years. An injury from getting spiked in the leg kept him off the team in his senior year. By all accounts, Robek was a good football player.
      In 1966, following a game between the Spartans and the Brookfield Warriors, Robek earned the ‘Hatchet Man’ award from head coach Steve Sonoga for making 11 tackles in the game.
      “John has proven by his past actions and attitudes, both on the football field and off, that he is highly deserving of this award,” Coach Sonoga said in a letter sent to Robek’s parents on Oct. 5, 1966.
      John Robek graduated from Boardman High School as a member of the Class of 1968. By the spring of 1973 he had graduated from Youngstown State University and reportedly had landed a job in the fall of 1974 as a full-time school teacher.
      Until he assumed his teaching duties that fall, Robek worked undercover for little more than two months in the murky world of narcotics enforcement with the Youngstown Police Department, partnering with his boyhood friend, Kenny Swartz.
      The day Robek went missing, Swartz says he dropped-off his friend in the driveway of his home, and later returned to the house to drop-off Robek’s paycheck for his work as an undercover agent. Swartz says he asked John’s father to tell his son that Swartz could meet him later that evening at the Crystal Tavern in Youngstown.
      Robek never showed-up, Swartz said.
      The follwing day, Robek’s father reported his son missing to the Boardman Police Department.
      The missing persons report was taken by then Ptl. Steve Balog. Just before the Boardman policeman arrived at the Robek’s Amherst Ave. home, Robek’s father said he was on the phone speaking with Det. Lynch.
      Mr. Robek said the Youngstown detective told him “to say nothing.”
      “And what could we tell him? We knew nothing, only that our son was missing and that we were terribly upset,” Mr. Robek recalled.
      Ptl. Balog noted at the time, “An unusual circumstance concerning the boy’s disappearance is the fact that the car is still parked in front of his house, and he has no, other means of transportation.”
      After Officer Balog took the missing persons report, Boardman Police Chief Hess stopped by the Robek’s home saying he was taking charge of the investigation, according to a statement made by Mr. Robek that was obtained by The Boardman News.
      The statement continues, “Later, Det. Lynch came by and said he wanted to look at John’s drug-buy records.
      “When he left, he took one of the two ledgers and some marihuana that John had apparently purchased undercover.”
      John Robek’s father worked at the Youngstown Vindicator and recalled the day after his son went missing, there was a classified ad in the paper pertaining to some guns that were being sold. The phone number listed in the ad showed Ken Swartz’s telephone number.
      Interviewed two weeks ago, Swartz said in 1974 he had a federal firearm license and would often sell guns for Robek when his friend needed money.
      “It’s hard to figure out what happened,” Ken Swartz says of John Robek’s disappearance.
      “I’m hoping somewhere, somebody would say something,” Swartz said.
      Despite the fact that John Robek was reported missing to the Boardman Police Department, the department did not actively investigate the case.
      Police Chief Grant L. Hesss told his administrative assistant “not to worry about it,” The Boardman News learned; and as well, there are many claims that Det. Lynch said he would investigate the matter.
      Reportedly, Hess, Lynch and a Mahoning County Sheriff, William Johns, decided to conduct a secret investigation “in an attempt to eliminate any possible harm to Robek’s friends and associates.”
      Three years ago, two members of a U.S. Marshal’s Task Force went to Payson, Arizona and interviewed Swartz. According to Capt. Albert Kakascik, of the Boardman Police Department, the interview could be described as “inconclusive.” Members of the task force have not spoken to living members of Robek’s family about the results of that interview.
  Boardman’s 120th Annual Memorial Day  
  May 30, 2024 Edition  
     “My prayer is that we are able to keep this incredible country that has been preserved by those who gave their lives for us”
     
      BY JOHN A. DARNELL JR.
      Associate Editor
      Boardman Township’s 120th Memorial Day observance was held Mon., May 27 and began the parade from Center Intermediate School to Boardman Park, led by the Boardman High School Spartan Marching Band. In the footsteps of his predecessors J.W. Minter, Richard Bame, and Thomas A. Groth, director Thomas Ruggieri led the 2-mile trek to Boardman Park.
      Weather forecasts cancelled the traditional Memorial Day service at the park’s Maag Outdoor Arts Theater, and Parade Grand Marshal and featured speaker, local talk show host and military veteran Dan Rivers, delivered his address inside the Lariccia Family Center.
      “It sounds simplistic and fraught with idealism, but my mind often reflects on how we, as an evolved species, have not renounced warfare,” Rivers said.
      He later added “Today when I see statutes defaced, college campuses defiled, I see a lack of knowing history, and entitlement.
      “Please be cognizant of those who gave lives just like yours, in the name of freedom.
      “When and if you are involved in a demonstration, understand that a soldier made it possible for you to demonstrate openly, without fear of reprisal from the government.”
      Noting that “we have been given a planet with vast resources, more than enough to feed the world, and yet evil prevails,” Rivers recounted his father’s experience while serving in World War II.
      His father, a 1941 high school graduate, was a member of a B-29 bombing crew that developed engine trouble after being hit by enemy gunfire, and was forced to make a crash landing while over the Himalaya mountains over China.
      He survived the crash and was rescued by Chinese villagers, who traveling by night and hiding by day, led him to safety after a five-week journey.
      Rivers recalled all war casualties, including a civil was battle at Perryville, Ky., where 200 Ohioans died in one day, where 4200 Union soldiers and 3200 Confederate soldiers died in one day; as well as those who died in Vietnam, World War II and even the 13 service members who perished during the evacuation of Afghanistan.
      “We all need to reflect on the sacrifice that so many have given in service to the idea of America,” Rivers, a Seabee who completed two tours of duty in Vietnam, said.
      Rivers said Spartan Marching band members at the annual parade “provided inspiration through their music, with all in the band thinking there is a bright future ahead.
      “To you students, allow yourself to think of being a member of the outnumbered and completely surrounded General Washington’s army in Brooklyn.
      “They faced certain death had it not been for Washington gathering every boat and skiff, and sneaking his men across the East River in the dead of night to fight again. When dawn broke away, a heavy shroud of fog rolled in, further protecting the escape. Some say, divine intervention was at play.
      “Think about the men storming Normandy Beach as machine gun fire attempted to turn them back.
      “Hopefully, you will never face those challenges. For now, it’s enough to remember those who did.
      “Remember, they were kids, just like you, who gave their lives so we all could be free.”
      And, the speaker recalled, “There are brave men and women who have waded into battle in defense of the Republic, knowing they would like be killed in doing so.
      “How many of us would be willing to do the same,” Rivers asked, concluding “My prayer is that we are able to keep this incredible country that has been preserved by those who gave their lives for us.”
      Mark Luke, of the Kiwanis Club, served as master of ceremonies and organized the parade.
     
      PICTURED: NOTED LOCAL TALK SHOW HOST, Dan Rivers, of WKBN, served as parade grand marshal and featured speaker at Boardman Township’s 120th annual Memorial Day observances held on May 27. Rivers is a Seabee veteran of the Vietnam Conflict.
  MAHONING COUNTY COMMISSIONERS  
  Left End Day:   May 30, 2024 Edition  
     MAHONING COUNTY COMMISSIONERS met on Wed., May 22 at the Youngstown Foundation Amphitheater where they declared the day as ‘Left End Day’ in honor of the legendary rock band. Formed in Youngstown in 1970, Left End has enjoyed an impressive music career spanning over five decades. Left End, dubbed “The Godfathers of Youngstown Rock and Roll” by local disc jockeys, has shared the stage with some of the biggest names in music, including the Eagles, Cheap Trick, Lynyrd Skynyrd, Rush, Ted Nugent, Steppenwolf, Golden Earring, Trapeze, John Mellencamp, Slade and Michael Stanley. This special day also paid tribute to the late frontman and lead singer, Dennis T. Menass (Dennis Sesonsky), who passed away in 2014. His legacy lives on through the music and memories he created with Left End. Pictured, in center, accepting a special ‘Rocklamatiom’ presented by commissioners is Sesonsky’s daughter, Tasha Stanton. Commissioners, from left to right, are Carol Rimedio-Righetti, David Ditzler and Anthony Traficanti.
  Conviction Upheld In Case Of Assault On Two Paramedics And Police Officer  
  At His Trial, Extensive Evidence Given Against Dustin Lee James:   May 23, 2024 Edition  
     The Seventh District Court of Appeals has ruled that three claims of error made during a trial of a 39-year-old man who was arrested in Dec., 2021 after fighting with paramedics and a Boardman policemen were without merit.
      Around 4:30 p.m. on Dec. 24, 2021 Lane LifeTrans paramedics were sent to the parking lot of Wal-Mart, 1300 Doral Dr. for a suspected drug overdose
      The appellate court said that EMT Erin O’Driscoll found Dustin Lee James (of 147 Shields Rd., #5) in the parking lot of Wal-Mart.
      “[James] was acting erratically, kept nodding off, and showed other signs of overdose. After [he] was placed in an ambulance, [he] almost immediately stopped breathing,” the court said, adding that O’Driscoll gave James narcan using a syringe placed into his thigh.
      The court continued “[James] immediately woke up on receiving the injection. He grabbed the syringe from O’Driscoll and attacked her,” as the driver of the ambulance, Angelina Williams, pulled over and radioed for help, then went to aid O’Driscoll. Eventually the two EMTs and three police officers were able to restrain James,
      O’Driscoll suffered a concussion and Sgt. Glenn Patton, of the BPD, was hit in the face and suffered a split lip during efforts to subdue James. Williams was also injured during the melee in the ambulance, as she received a bruise on her back, Due to their injuries, O’Driscoll and Wiliams could not finish their work shift.
      The case didn’t go to court for a jury trial until Jan. 3, 2023, after James was indicted on five counts of assault, as well as obstruction and resisting arrest.
      In Mar., 2023, James was found guilty on six of the seven counts and sentenced to eight to twelve years in prison.
      James, represented by Atty. Michael Partlow, appealed the trial court’s decision claiming three errors:
       1) His right to equal protection was violated when a juror candidate, who was Black, was dismissed. Partlow claimed the dismissal was “purposeful discrimination.”
       2) His conviction was against the manifest weight of evidence.
       3) And, James’ constitutional rights were violated when he was sentenced to a “potential, indefinite term of incarceration.”
      “Assault requires proof that a person knowingly caused or attempted to cause physical harm to another. The evidence showed that [James] caused physical harm to Erin O’Driscoll, Angelina Williams and Officer Glenn Patton. All three testified about their injuries, including a sprained shoulder, a concussion and a split lip,” an opinion written by Judge Cheryl Waite said.
      The judge concluded “There is no evidence that the [prosecutor] had a discriminatory purpose in removing the juror from the panel.
      “Second, James’ manifest weight argument is contradicted by the extensive evidence presented against him at trial, including the testimony of the two medical technicians and Officer Patton, as well as video evidence of what occurred when James attacked them in the back of an ambulance.
      “All…assignments of error are without merit and the conviction and the sentence are affirmed.”
      Appellate Judges Carol Ann Robb and William Klatt concurred with the opinion.
  EV Charging Station To Be Installed At Tiffany Plaza  
  May 23, 2024 Edition  
     Ohio Gov. Mike DeWine has announced that the state will award nearly $16 million to install more electric vehicle (EV) fast-charging stations along interstates and other routes.
      Along US-224 in Boardman, a charging station will be installed at the Tiffany Plaza shopping center. Construction is expected to begin in late 2024.
      Funding for the EV chargers is being awarded as part of the second round of the National Electric Vehicle Infrastructure (NEVI) Program. Ohio was the first state in the nation to activate an NEVI charging station as part of this program.
      The NEVI funding will be matched with more than $4 million from the private companies selected to install and operate the new EV charging stations.
  Robinwood Lane Remembers Student, Teacher With Special Garden  
  May 23, 2024 Edition  
      Robinwood Lane Elementary School on Indianola Rd. held a dedication ceremony for the school’s newly established Memory Garden on Tues., May 21. The event marked the culmination of a heartfelt project initiated following the tragic passing of kindergarten student Anastasia Weaver in January, 2023; followed by a second tragic loss just 10 months later of Robinwood’s beloved school nurse, Amy Carkido, after her courageous fight with cancer. Thanks to the generosity of Spartan staff, families, and community donations, a memory garden now graces the entrance of the school providing a serene space for reflection and remembrance. Students contributed by painting handmade rocks, and plants were donated by Petitti Garden Center. Additionally, Tony DiGiacomo of Second Nature Landscape Services played a significant role in the garden’s creation, and a memorial bench was donated by M&J Crown LLC.
  Reception Set For Wed., May 22 Will Recognize Retiring Supt. Tim Saxton  
  May 16, 2024 Edition  
      The Boardman Board of Education will hold a retirement reception in honor of retiring Boardman Local School Superintendent Tim Saxton on Wednesday, May 22, from 4:00 p.m. to 6:00 p.m. in the Boardman High School cafeteria. Saxton has been employed by the Boardman Local Schools for 22 years, including eight years as superintendent. Light refreshments will be provided. The reception is an opportunity for staff, families and community members to stop in and offer well wishes to Saxton as he closes one chapter and opens another. He leaves his office in July.
  New Boardman School Superintendent Draws Praise For Service To East Palestine Schools  
  May 16, 2024 Edition  
      After the announcement was made last week by the Boardman Local School Board that Chris Neifert will become the district’s new superintendent replacing Tim Saxton, the East Palestine City School District issued a press release wishing the new Boardman superintendent that best and extending gratitude for leaving the East Palestine district in better shape that when he took the superintendent’s job there.
      At East Palestine, the press release said that Neifer “has handled many unexpected obstacles as a leader, with grace and stability. His leadership proved invaluable in laying a solid foundation for both students and staff amid the turmoil of events like the COVID-19 pandemic and the 2023 train derailment. With him at the helm, new programs and exciting opportunities became available to our students, reflecting a commitment to constant growth and advancement.”
      East Palestine school board president Jen Andre said Neifer’s departure “is a huge loss for the students, staff and community of East Palestine.”
      Neifer began his career at East Palestine as an elementary principal in 2015, then high school principal and was named superintendent at East Palestine in 2018.
      Neifer has lived in Boardman for some 30 years and has a son who attends Boardman High School.
  120th Annual Memorial Day Parade And Service Mon., May 27  
  May 16, 2024 Edition  
      On Monday, May 27, Boardman Township will hold its 120th annual Memorial Day remembrance to honor those who have served, are serving, and those who gave the ultimate sacrifice while in military..
      The Parade and Memorial Day Service is sponsored and coordinated by the Kiwanis Club of Boardman-Youngstown and Boardman Township Park.
      Groups participating in the parade will assemble at Center Intermediate School at 9:00 a.m. and the parade will begin at 10:00 a.m.
      Prior to the parade, and starting at 9:00 a.m. is the Memorial Mile (a running road race) which follows the same route as the parade.
      The Parade originates at the Center School, then proceeds north on Rt. 7 to the State Rt. 224 intersection, then proceeds East on Rt. 224 to Boardman Park.
      Following the parade, at approximately 11:00 a.m., the Memorial Day Service will be conducted at the park’s Maag Outdoor Amphitheater where the keynote speaker will be WKBN talk show host Dan Rivers who two tours during the Vietnam War.
      Lauren Johnson will lead the invocation. LTC Bill Moss, USAF retired, will lead the Pledge of Allegiance and place a wreath in honor of deceased veterans.
      The Boardman High School National Honor Society President Ava Freeborough will place a wreath in honor of those currently serving in the military.
      Mark Luke, of the Kiwanis Club, will serve as master of ceremonies. Music for the service will be provided by The Boardman High School Wind Ensemble conducted by Director of Bands Mr. Tom Ruggieri.
      In the event of inclement weather, the Memorial Day Service will be held in the Boardman Park Community Center at 10:00 a.m.
      All veterans and community members can join the service in the park to recognize, remember and express solemn thankfulness for the historical sacrifices of United States military forces to preserve the American way of life.
  Trustees Seek Public Meeting With ODOT To Discuss Proposed Rt. 224 Project  
  May 9, 2024 Edition  
     Boardman Township’s Board of Trustees is seeking a public meeting with the Ohio Department of Transportation (ODOT) to discuss a proposed $20 million project on Rt. 224, from South Ave. to Market St. that many business and property owners suggest will limit access to businesses along the roadway.
      “As ODOT is developing changes to Rt. 224 for safety, we hope there is a way to balance the safety upgrades and access along the established commercial corridor,” Trustees said in a letter sent to Sean Carpenter, of ODOT.
      “The concerns shared by the property owners with established plazas and shopping centers are related to vehicles (their customers and livelihood) accessing their properties,” they added.
      The Trustees asked if they could help “facilitate” an open house and invite property owners to review the plans and address their concerns.
      “The changes being proposed are significant enough that we would urge ODOT to meet with these property owners and discuss methodology and give the property owners a chance to voice their concerns,” Trustees said.
  17 High School Seniors Honored With Edward J. DeBartolo Memorial Scholarships  
  May 9, 2024 Edition  
     Denise DeBartolo York and Dr. John York, San Francisco co-chairs and longtime education advocates, awarded $10,000 scholarships to 17 graduating high school seniors during ceremonies at the Lake Club that were held Wed., May 1 for the students and their families.
      The scholarships were given to seniors from schools in Mahoning, Columbiana and Trumbull Counties by the Edward J. DeBartolo Memorial Scholarship Foundation, that has awarded more the $2 million in scholarships over the past 27 years. Some 250 applications were received for scholarship consideration.
      “All of this year’s recipients are incredible young man and women,” Mrs. York said.
      Those honored with scholarships were Hailey Barrickman, Mathews HS; Christopher Cardiero, Girard HS; Ava Clayton, Mathews HS; Madison Dado, South Range HS; Lillian Ditz, Ursuline HS; Samantha Gainor, Salem HS; Francesca Gratica, Ursuline HS; Zaiden Hurks, Liberty HS’ Madison Jones, Western Reserve HS; Alaina Johnston, Columbiana HS; MacKenzie Kelso, Boardman HS; Brooke Nelson, South Range HS; John Perry, Howland HS; Symone Sferra, Campbell Memorial HS; Roni Swertfager, Girard HS; Riely Wilson, Canfield HS; and Makenna Wheatley, Beaver Local HS.
      The scholarship was first established by Mrs. DeBartolo York’s father, Edward J. DeBartolo Sr, and several close friends as Italian Scholarship League stipends. Upon Mr. DeBartolo’s death, Mrs. DeBartolo and her husband, John, have carried on the tradition.
      “The mission of the foundation is to reward local students who have worked hard, inside and outside of the classroom. My father always believed that young people who have the drive and determination to achieve their goals and contribute to their community should have the opportunity to continue their education, regardless of the financial situation,” Mrs. DeBartolo York said.
      Applications for the awards included grade transcripts, student essays and recommendations from guidance counselors and principals. Award winners were determined by academic achievement, community involvement and financial need.
      “We strive to provide advanced education for deserving valley students well into the future,” Mrs. DeBartolo York said.
     
  Boardman School Board Names Chris Neifer As New Superintendent  
  May 9, 2024 Edition  
     The Boardman Board of Education was slated to hold a special meeting at 6:30 p.m. on May 7 for the purpose of approving current East Palestine Superintendent Chris Neifer to be the Boardman Local School District’s next superintendent, replacing Tim Saxton, who will retire July 31.
      “After an extensive search process, the board is excited to announce Christopher Neifer will be recommended,” said a press release provided by Amy Radinovic, communications coordinator for Boardman Local Schools.
      Neifer resides in Boardman.
      “Board members believe Neifer is most aligned with the qualities and experience to fit the needs of Boardman, and that our stakeholders expressed they valued most,” Radinovic said.
      Neifer’s 28 years as an educator include time spent as a science teacher, coach, elementary and high school principal, and most recently six years serving as superintendent of East Palestine City School District.
      “We believe Chris is a proven leader, as shown through his navigating an unimagined community crisis. He’s a seasoned educator, and as a resident of Boardman with a child attending school here, he is keenly aware of the Spartan tradition of excellence.” said Boardman School Board President John Fryda.
  LEGAL NOTICE  
  May 9, 2024 Edition  
     ADVERTISEMENT FOR BIDS
      PUBLIC NOTICE TO BIDDERS
      Sealed bids will be received at the office of the ABC Water & Stormwater District, 8299 Market Street, Building C Boardman, Ohio 44512 until 12:00 p.m. on May 30, 2024 and will be opened and read immediately thereafter for the
      FOREST LAWN STORMWATER PARK
      ODNR COMMUNITY PARK
      RECREATION/CONSERVATION GRANT
      MAHONING COUNTY ARPA GRANT
      BOARDMAN TOWNSHIP FEMA HMA GRANT
      WPCLF GRANT
      OPINION OF PROBABLE CONSTRUCTION COST: $4,300,000.00
      COMPLETION DATE: OCTOBER 31, 2025
      The bid specifications, drawings, plan holders list, addenda, and other bid information (but not the bid forms) may be viewed and/or downloaded for free via the internet at https://bids.ctconsultants.com . The bidder shall be responsible to check for Addenda and obtain same from the web site.
      Bids must be in accordance with drawings and specifications and on forms available from CT Consultants, Inc. at a non-refundable cost of One Hundred – Fifty Dollars ($150.00) Documents may be ordered by registering and paying online at https://bids.ctconsultants.com. Please contact planroom@ctconsultants.com or call (440) 530-2395 if you encounter any problems viewing, registering or paying for the documents.
      There will be a Non-Mandatory Pre Bid Conference on May 13, 2024 at 11:00 a.m. at 8299 Market Street, Building A, Youngstown, OH, 44512.
      This project will be funded by the Water Pollution Control Loan Fund Program as administered by the Ohio Environmental Protection Agency and the Ohio Water Development Authority. The Contractor shall note that there are Disadvantaged Business Enterprise participation goals for this project.
      Build America, Buy America Act (BABA) requirements apply.
      This procurement is subject to the EPA policy on encouraging the participation of small business in rural areas (SBRAs).
      The Ohio Department of Natural Resources (the “Department”) has been designated by the Governor as the state agency responsible for administration and coordination of Fund 7031 and 7035 Community Parks, Recreation, and Conservation Projects. Within the Department, program responsibilities have been assigned to the Office of Real Estate and Land Management. These monies are being used to assist construction and relevant state requirements will apply.
  Ten High School Seniors Awarded Scholarships From Civic Association  
  May 2, 2024 Edition  
     The Boardman Civic Association held its annual Scholarship Awards Dinner on Monday night at Boardman Park. 11 scholarships, valued at $750 each, were awarded to ten high school seniors. Recipients were Jsoelyn Bishara, Trancisca Gatica, T’anna James, Kelsey McCallum, Samantha Murray, Mackenzie Riccitelli, Morgan Russo, Carter Simons, Landon Stokes and Mary-Catherine Werth.
  In Denying Conditional Use Permit For Proposed Group Home, Zoning Official Says Applicant Used False/Misleading Information  
  May 2, 2024 Edition  
     BY JOHN A. DARNELL JR.
      associate editor
      A Boardman Township Zoning Board of Appeals meeting has been set for Tues., June 18 to consider a conditional use permit application submitted for a proposed group home that would house ex-convicts, including sex offenders, at 365 East Midlothian Blvd.
      The owner of the property is reported as American Scholar Ltd., of 10 Penn Ave., Greenville, Pa., that was cited by Boardman Township Zoning on Feb. 23 “for operating a multi-family dwelling group home without first having obtained a conditional use permit.”
      In denying the permit application, Boardman Township Planning/Zoning Director T.J., Keiran noted in 2023 and 2024 rental unit certificate applications provided false and misleading information, including using ‘Just in Time Initiative’ as the property owner, and Andrea Mahone Blackmon signing as the property owner, “which she is not.”
      According to Ng Ching Ching, apparently of American Scholar, the multi-family dwelling at 365 East Midlothian Blvd. is already being used and operated by American Scholar’s tenant, the Andrea Mahone Foundation, “as a community transitional housing facility for previously incarcerated individuals, now limited to adult male residents, each of whom must be working and employed outside the residence.”
      In the application for a conditional use permit, Ching says “the current use of the building has diminished any prior problems to the neighborhood,” that includes a group home on nearby Sunset Blvd. that is operated by Gateways to better Living.
      Boardman Township Police Chief Todd Werth says that claim is not true.
      Records of the Boardman Police Department show there has been a significant increase in police calls to 365 East Midlothian Blvd. since the Andrea Mahone Foundation began operating there.
      From 2018 through 2020, there were just three calls to the East Midlothian site---one for a property report, another for a fraud report, and one for a suspicious person report.
      According to Boardman police statistics, after the Andrea Mahone Foundation took over the facility, from 2021 through Mar., 2024, police made 99 calls to the site, including 13 for assaults (including a sexual assault), two for overdose-related deaths, as well as many drug and mental health related calls.
      A proposal was submitted to the Ohio Department of Rehabilitation and Corrections (ODRC) for transitional housing for previously incarcerated individuals in July, 2023 for 365 East Midlothian Blvd. and says the state agency will pay up to $85 a day in taxpayer monies to house ex-convicts. (That computes to some $650,000 a year for the maximum 20 ex-convicts the Mahone Foundation claims would be housed there).
      Among the ODRC requirements mandated for so-called transitional housing for ex-convicts is security services.
      In applying for a conditional use permit, the Mahone Foundation provided a signed “letter of commitment from sub-contractor” declaring that American Abacus, of Penn Ave., Greenville, Pa. would provide a variety of services, including security, for the site on East Midlothian Blvd., in addition to accounting and finance, and transportation.
      The letter displays the name of Drew C. Pierce, president. A check of the website for American Abacus says its services include---“Daily/Monthly Accounting: Expanding international products to American markets; Product Logistics & Placement; and International Investment in Businesses & Real Estate,” and makes no mention of security services.
      Chief Werth notes the Mahone Foundation’s application to the ODRC made false claims the Boardman Police Department ‘favorably recommended’ the proposal.
      “That is simply not the case,” the police chief said, adding “Portions of the application attributed to the Boardman Police Department are falsified and misrepresent the position of the department.”
  Board Recommends Denial Of Occupancy Permit For Group Home For Sex Offenders, Ex-Cons  
  “Dormitory-style living units with common area sanitary facilities are not permitted in Boardman Township”:   April 25, 2024 Edition  
     Boardman Township’s Architectural Review Board has recommended denying a conditional use permit application for a proposed group home at 365 East Midlothian Blvd., where, as of Apr. 13, eight registered sex offenders already reside in a building the contains 20 single bedrooms. In some cases, four rooms in the building are serviced by just one bathroom.
      An application for the permit was made by David Ho and Lisa Ng, of Greenville, Pa. American Scholar Ltd., of Greenville, owns the property, and Ho is the registered agent of the firm.
      According to documents provided to the Architectural Review Board, the Andrea Mahone Foundation “operates the owner’s building as a community transitional housing facility for previously incarcerated individuals.” Andrea Mahone Blackmon, of West Hylda, Youngstown, Oh., heads up the foundation.
      Boardman Township Planning/Zoning Director T.J. Keiran has cited American Scholar for operating multi-family dwelling group home without first having obtained a conditional use permit.
      According to Michael Fagan, chairman of Boardman’s Architectural Review Board, “the proposed dormitory-style living units with common area sanitary facilities are not permitted in Boardman Township.” Fagan also points out the 365 East Midlothian not only does not have an occupancy permit from the Boardman Township Fire Department, it also has not obtained an occupancy permit from Mahoning County.
      In seeking the conditional use permit, counsel for American Scholar, Atty. Jonathan Schoenike, says the conditional use permit is needed as a licensing requirement (for the proposed group home) of the Ohio Department of Rehabilitation and Corrections.
      Counsel says “a license from and contract the ODRC is pending, subject to obtaining an occupancy permit for the building.”
      Karl Blissenbach, parole program specialist with the ODRC, has informed Blackmon (Andrea Mahone) her proposal “appears to have completed the minimum requirements…except for a certificate of use and/or occupancy and zoning compliance.”
      Sonya Harris, who claims to be CEO of Mahoning Valley Professional Administrative Services, says she is responsible for “record keeping and dispatching rides for the Mahone Foundation’s high-risk clients.”
      If a conditional use permit is approved for 365 East Midlothian, it would place at least eight, registered sex offenders and/or ex-convicts living in the same neighborhood where a Gateways to Better Living facility (3924 Sunset Blvd.) is operated.
      Gateways says it “provides individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities a safe, comfortable and supported place to call home… and serves individuals of various need levels, including people faced with significant medical, physical and behavioral challenges.”
  Law Enforcement Seizes Suspected Drugs, Cell Phone, Computer Device From Room At Wagon Wheel Rented By Known Sex Offender  
  April 25, 2024 Edition  
     BY JOHN A. DARNELL JR.
      associate editor
      A 26-year-old man arrested by members of the Mahoning Valley Human Trafficking Task Force on Sat., Apr. 6 in East Palestine, Oh., (along with a Boardman Local School music teacher), has been bound over to a Columbiana County Grand Jury on fifth degree felony charges of possession of criminal tools and possession of drugs.
      Logan Larlham, a convicted sex offender, could face additional charges after a room he rented at the Wagon Wheel Motel, 7015 Market St., was raided by law enforcement officers, including Boardman police and an FBI agent, on Apr. 12.
      Larlham, 26, has been bound over to the Columbiana County grand jury for allegedly responding to an undercover ad on a known prostitution website and requesting to have a female brought to his room at the Wagon Wheel Motel so she could provide sex for hire services and refer her clients to him for drug sales. He arranged for a driver, (identified as Robert Pavalko, 44, a music teacher employed by Boardman Local Schools) to take him to pick up the female.
      Larlham and Pavalko were arrested when they showed-up in East Palestine to pick-up the presumed prostitute.
      Pavalko, of 137 Shadow Ridge Dr., Poland, Oh., has entered a plea of not guilty to charges of permitting drug abuse and felony possession of drugs and is free on his own recognizance after posting a $5000 bond.
      His case is set for a preliminary hearing on May 2 before Judge Katelyn Dickey.
      While awaiting trial, Pavalko has been placed on administrative leave by Boardman Local Schools. Pavalko is also in court in Mahoning County, seeking a divorce from a Girard man, David Matthew Nickell, court records show.
      Larlham, a convicted sex offender, had rented a room at the Wagon Wheel. When law enforcement went to the motel on the warrant, the business was in the process of removing Larlham’s property “for disposal” because he had not paid his bill.
      Boardman Court Judge Joseph Houser approved a search warrant for a safe that was Larlham’s room.
      Inside the safe, law enforcement officers found a baggie of white crystals, a plastic container of white crystals, seven capped syringes and a digital scale.
      Police said the crystals field-tested positive for methamphetamine.
      Also recovered in Larlham’s room were a cell phone and a USB flash drive.
      After seizing the items from the safe, law enforcement said “the remainder of Larlham’s property was thrown into the dumpster at the Wagon Wheel, per their protocol.”
      Since his arrest on Apr. 6, Larlham has been lodged in the Columbaina County Jail, unable to post a $100,000 bond.
  “I’ve been blessed to have the opportunity to give back to our beautiful Green Oasis, in the heart of Boardman, through my role as park commissioner”  
  Boardman Trustees Present Proclamation To Longtime Boardman Park Board Member:   April 25, 2024 Edition  
     Atty. Steven Yacovone
      Appointed To Park Board
     
      BY JOHN A. DARNELL JR.
      associate editor
      Meeting on Monday night, Boardman Township’s Board of Trustees recognized Joyce Mistovich, of Presidential Dr., who has retired from the Boardman Park Board of Commissioners after 15 years of service.
      She was first appointed to the park board in 2009 and served ten years as its president. Her involvement with Boardman Park began while she was just a teenager, as a member of the Summer Day Camp staff.
      During her tenure, Boardman Park programming expanded and a variety of capital improvement projects were completed, including expansion and renovation of the Lariccia Family Community Center and the Georgeanna Parker Activity Center, development of Marge Hartman’s Paws-town dog park, development of a long-term tree management plan and creation of a disc golf course.
      For 25 years, she has served as a judge for the park district’s annual Pumpkin Carve-Out.
      She helped to develop a master plan for the Southern Park Historic District, that to date, has not been acted upon.
      Mrs. Mistovich is a former art teacher in the Boardman Local Schools. In 2014, she was honored as a distinguished graduate of Boardman High School, where she also served as program director for Boardman Local Schools television.
      In 2018 she was presented the Children’s Advocate Award by Akron Children’s Hospital; and in 2020 she was honored as Citizen of the Year by the Boardman Civic Association.
      She was a founding member of the board for the Boardman Schools Fund for Educational Excellence in 2009; and is a member of the Boardman Lions Club and Junior League of the Mahoning Valley.
      She currently serves as director of education at the Butler Institute of American Art, serves as secretary of the board of the Northeastern Educational Television of Ohio, Public Broadcasting System of the Western Reserve; and is a member of the Board of Directors of Sight for All United.
      Mrs. Mistovich and her late husband, Ron, are the parents of three children---Justin, a pediatric orthopaedic surgeon; Ryan, a Pittsburgh art educator; and Joy, an accessibility specialist and education department assistant at the Butler.
      In acknowledging the proclamation in her honor, Mrs. Mistovich noted that her “inspiration and passion to serve our community, specifically the greatest gem in Mahoning County, Boardman Township Park, is rooted in my educational and family values.”
      She noted that growing up in Boardman provided her with a solid foundation of learning, exposing her to a broad spectrum of community service.
      “I’ve been blessed to have the opportunity to give back to our beautiful Green Oasis, in the heart of Boardman, through my role as park commissioner,” Mrs. Mistovich said,” adding that she was grateful for the support of the Board of Township Trustees---Tom Costello, Brad Calhoun and Larry Moliterno, as well as the late executive director of Boardman Park, Dan Slagle.
      Mrs. Mistovich said she was honored to serve with current park commissioners Trent Cailor and Liam Jones “who are insightful in all they bring to the table.”
      Following Monday night’s meeting, Trustees adjourned into an executive session, following which they appointed Atty. Steve Yacovone to replace Mrs. Mistovich.
      In seeking appointment to the post, Yacovone said he will dedicate himself to maintaining and improving the park system in Boardman.
      He is currently employed as an assistant county prosecutor in Columbiana County.
      As a resident of Boardman Township, Atty. Yacovone said that he has a “vested interest in the continuing success of our township, and that includes our beautiful park system.”
  Navy Veteran Dan Rivers Featured Speaker At 120th Annual Memorial Day Service  
  April 18, 2024 Edition  
      THE 120th ANNUAL BOARDMAN MEMORIAL DAY PARADE and Service will be held Mon., May 27. The parade will begin at 10:00 a.m. at Center Intermediate School and travel to Boardman Park where the keynote speaker at the Maag Outdoor Amphitheater will be local radio talk show host Dan Rivers, of WKBN. Rivers is a U.S. Navy veteran who served two tours of duty during the Vietnam Conflict. Mark Luke will serve as master of ceremonies and Lauren Johnson will give the invocation. U.S. Air Force LTC/ret. Bill Moss will lead the Pledge of Allegiance and place a wreath at the Veterans’ Memorial in honor of deceased veterans; while Ava Freeborough, president of the Boardman High School National Honor Society, will place a wreath in honor of those currently serving in the military.
  Businesses Along Rt. 224 Say ODOT’s $20 Million Proposed Project Is Flawed  
  ‘We have all joined together...and hope that the state of Ohio and ODOT will redesign or abort the ‘safety corridor’ in this area...’:   April 18, 2024 Edition  
     BY JOHN A. DARNELL JR.
      associate editor
      Six property owners along a stretch of Rt. 224, from Market St. east to Marinthana Ave., whose combined properties are worth more than $8 million, have signed a letter sent to the Ohio Department of Transportation (ODOT) strongly objecting to a $20 million project proposed by ODOT on Rt. 224.
      “We feel this is a restrictively bad design…This safety construction may greatly impact this commercial north side of Rt. 224 in a very negative and detrimental way---(future vacant plazas),” say the owners of properties stretching from 60 Boardman-Poland Rd. (owned by the Laurie Heaver Trust) to 112 Boardman-Poland Rd., owned by MK Investments, of Boardman.
      ODOT says the purpose and need for the project is to improve safety and reduce congestion, and that a ‘safety study’ conducted between 2013 and 2017 concluded there were 1,877 accidents along Rt. 224, from South Ave. to Market St. during that time frame.
      Given estimated average daily traffic counts on that portion of the road of 30,000/day, during the five year span of the study, at least 50 million vehicles drove along the study area. Less than three one-thousands of one per cent of all motorists were involved in accidents, that included two fatalities. ODOT says the some 60 per cent of the accidents were rear-end crashes.
      The property owners say “we purchased these commercial properties because of the full access to the east/west bound traffic on U.S. Rt. 224 and the daily traffic count of 30,000-36,000 vehicles per day. Having this direct access to our properties and our tenant businesses was and is paramount for our property values. This design (that will prevent left hand turns in small businesses and the Southern Park Mall) will remove that value.
      “Northernly adjacent neighborhood streets, from Market St. to Southern Blvd. (including Woodview, Newton, Crestline, Sheldon and Marinthana) will also be affected by huge traffic increases.”
      The property owners say they do not want left turn access into their properties removed.
      “Maybe ODOT should do an engineering study and change the timing of the traffic lights (Market St., mall entrance, California Ave. and Southern Blvd. to be green all at the same time so the traffic can flow through this corridor on Rt. 224, rather than being stopped at each light, or each other light as it is now.
      1 For over 30 years Rt. 224 has been configured as it is today, and some things are better just left undone to remain the same.
      “We strongly object to the flawed ODOT safety designs and the direct removal of left turn access to our properties.”
      Other developers who have objected to ODOT’s proposal include Dave Handel and Vince Fond Jr.
      Handel, developer of the Shops at Boardman Park that is valued at $35.8 million, says he believes the proposed improvements will serve to deteriorate current traffic conditions.
      “I have serious questions regarding the necessity of these dramatic changes,” Handel said.
      The Fond Property Group has developed some $28.5 million worth of properties along the proposed project area, including Applewood Commons, Verizon Wireless, Steak-n-Shake, Raising Canes, Tiffany Square, Chick-Fil-A, McDonalds, Joann Fabrics and Great Escape.
      Vince Fond Jr. notes “We have already experienced a negative economic impact.”
      Fond questions the proposed removal of a traffic light at Applewood Commons.
      A study in May, 2022 “indicates this signal is one of the average to better performing signals” and “currently meets all minimum driveway spacing and turning lane length requirements as designed,” Fond says, adding “If this signal is removed, the Applewood Commons shopping center will be permanently devalued.”
      ODOT says the proposed project is currently in the environmental engineering phase and preliminary plan development, and that right-of-way acquisition is scheduled to begin in the spring 2024, followed by construction in 2026.
  Champion Boxer Kelly Pavlik Set For Induction Into This Year’s Curbstone Hall Of Fame Class  
  April 18, 2024 Edition  
     BY GREG GULAS
      Boardman News Sports
      bnews@zoominternet.net
      The 55th Curbstone Coaches Hall of Fame banquet, sponsored by Briarfield Health Care Centers and Ed and Diane Reese, is set for Sunday, May 5 with 12 new members set for enshrinement during ceremonies at Mr. Anthony’s/
      The 2024 class includes the late Sean Durkin (basketball, baseball coach), Jill Harmon (softball), Ken Kimerer (bowling), Bob LaRicca (basketball, coach), Ken Linden (all-sports award), Bill Metzinger (baseball), Terry O’Halloran (swimming & diving, coach), Kelly Pavlik (boxing), Brett Powell (wrestling, coach), Ron Strollo (contribution to sports), Cheryl Weaver (softball, coach) and Dan Yeagley (football, coach).
      Pavlik, who now calls Boardman, Oh. home, is this year’s lone boxing inductee. He was born April 5, 1982, and is a 2000 graduate of Lowellville High School.
      The 1998 National Jr. PAL amateur champion (147 pounds), he was the National Jr. Golden Gloves amateur champion that same year and in 1999, also at 147 pounds, became the U.S. National Under-19 amateur champion.
      After a stellar amateur ring career, he turned pro in 2000 where he competed until 2012 winning the unified WBC, WBO, Ring magazine and lineal middleweight titles by defeating Jermain Taylor (2007), making three successful title defenses.
      ‘The Ghost,’ as he was affectionately known, won his first 26 fights before stepping up in competition, that coming on October 7, 2005, when he faced Fulgencio Zúñiga for the vacant NABF middleweight title.
      Zúñiga scored a knockdown with a left hook in the first round but this year’s honoree recovered quickly and dominated the rest of the fight. Zúñiga was cut over his right eye by a clash of heads and his corner stopped the fight after the ninth round.
      On July 7, 2006, Pavlik defeated former WBO light middleweight champion Bronco McKart with a sixth-round TKO in the first defense of his NABF middleweight title. McKart scored a knockdown when both of Pavlik’s gloves touched the canvas in the fourth-round, but Pavlik knocked McKart down twice in the sixth-round before the referee stopped the fight.
      He headlined in his hometown at the Covelli Centre on November 2, 2006, and put on a dominant performance against Lenord Pierre, scoring a knockdown with a right hand late in the first round, then rocked his opponent repeatedly in the second and third rounds. Another knock down in the fourth round forced the referee stop the fight.
      On January 27, 2007, in Anaheim, California, he defeated Jose Luis Zertuche with an eighth-round knockout in the second and final defense of his NABF middleweight title. It was a fast-paced, exciting fight that concluded when Pavlik landed a right fist that froze Zertuche in his tracks, then landed an uppercut that dropped him face-first to the canvas.
      On May 19, 2007, he defeated Edison Miranda with a technical knock-out in the seventh round, the fight a WBC middleweight title eliminator bout that established Pavlik as the No. 1 middleweight contender.
      In Atlantic City, New Jersey, in front of a pro-Pavlik crowd, he defeated Jermain Taylor on September 29, 2007 to become the new WBC, WBO, The Ring and lineal middleweight champion.
      In the pre-fight build-up, Taylor’s trainer Emmanuel Steward called Pavlik “overrated” and promised a knockout win for his boxer. It nearly happened as Pavlik was knocked down in the second round. Pavlik then used his reach advantage and ability to trap opponents in the corner to slowly turn the fight in his favor and by the sixth round, many at ringside saw the fight as even.
      In the seventh round, he stunned Taylor with a clean left hook to the chin and backed him against the ropes, knocking him out with a barrage of punches.to become the new WBC, WBO, The Ring and lineal middleweight champion.
      The fight was so popular that it was named ‘Fight of the Year’ by the Boxing Writers Association of America, Pavlik earning Boxing Times ‘Fighter of the Year’ laurels that same year.
      In all, Pavlik posted a 40-2 mark as a professional, winning 34 bouts by KO and his other six by decision. His two losses were by decision, also.
      On January 19, 2013, he announced his retirement from boxing.
      Considered one of the most media and fan-friendly athletes in any sport, he currently owns and operates several area gyms and work-out centers, has delved into the media with his own podcast and remains available when approached by promoters desiring his services ringside.
      He and his wife, Samantha, are the proud parents of two children, son Kelly, Jr. and daughter Sydney. They reside in Boardman.
      Doors open at 4 p.m., dinner is set to be served at 5 p.m. with the program scheduled to commence at 6 p.m. Individual tickets are $60 each while tables of eight are currently available for $480. Further information can be obtained by calling 330-506-6774 or by visiting the organization’s website at www.thecurbstonecoaches.org.
  Ohio Department Of Transportation Will Spend More Than $20 Million On A Project On Rt. 224 To Reduce Traffic Accidents By 94 Crashes A Year  
  More Than 10 Million Motorists Travel Along The Project Area Every Year:   April 11, 2024 Edition  
     BY JOHN A. DARNELL JR.
      associate editor
      The Ohio Department of Transportation (ODOT) says it is preparing to implement a $20.3 million improvement project on Rt. 224, from Market St. east to Tiffany Square, in an effort to reduce the number of traffic accidents along the roadway.
      According to ODOT, a study of traffic accidents during the time frame of 2013-2017 showed there were 1,877 accidents along the roadway, and 30 per cent of those accident involved injury, and just three resulted in fatalities.
      “The primary crash types reported were read-end (60%), left turn (14%), and side-swipe/passing (11%),” ODOT says, adding “these types of crashes are often related to congestion and left turning movements.”
      During the same period, there were three fatalities and 12 pedestrian and bicycle-related crashes, according to ODOT.
      As Boardman Township Administrator, Jason Loree, estimates, average daily traffic counts along that section of Rt. 224 proposed for improvements is about 30,000 vehicles a day, or upwards of 10.9 million vehicles a year.
      Given that estimate of 10.9 million vehicles a year traveling on Rt. 224, from Market St. east to Tiffany Square, about slightly more than one-tenth of one per cent of those vehicles are involved in a traffic accident every year.
      So in an effort to reduce the number of traffic accidents to less than one per day, ODOT is planning on spending more than $20 million?
      Dave Handel, developer of the Shops at Boardman Park that is valued at $35.8 million, says he believes he proposed improvements will serve to deteriorate current traffic conditions.
      “I have serious questions regarding the necessity of these dramatic changes,” Handel said.
      ODOT proposes to widen Rt. 224 in order to accommodate additional eastbound through lanes throughout the corridor. Additionally, left and right turn lanes will be added at select intersections in the corridor.
      “The added capacity throughout the corridor will help reduce congestion and alleviate crashes. The additional turn lanes at intersections will allow vehicles a lane to turn from that is separated from the through traffic, helping to reduce rear end crashes related to stopped vehicles,” ODOT says.
      Also ODOT proposes what it calls intersection improvements that include removing traffic signals to an entrance to the Southern Park Mall, at California Ave., and the Applewood Commons Shopping Center; and traffic control upgrades will also be installed at the remaining signals to enhance safety and reduce crashes.
      Additionally, a sidewalk will be built from Market St. to South Ave.
      The project will dramatically reduce entrances for motorists to access businesses along Rt. 224, including the Southern Park Mall.
      ODOT claims studies show as driveways and intersections in a corridor decrease, “so do crashes.”
      The Fond Property Group has developed some $28.5 million worth of properties along the proposed improvement area, including Applewood Commons, Verizon Wireless, Steak-n-Shake, Raising Canes, Tiffany Square, Chick-Fil-A, McDonalds, Joann Fabrics and Great Escape.
      Vince Fond Jr. notes “We have already experienced a negative economic impact.”
      Fond questions the proposed removal of a traffic light at Applewood Commons.
      A study in May, 2022 “indicates this signal is one of the average to better performing signals” and “currently meets all minimum driveway spacing and turning lane length requirements as designed,” Fond says, adding “If this signal is removed, the Applewood Commons shopping center will be permanently devalued.”
      Fond notes that an ODOT traffic study “indicates that the proposed modifications, as a whole, will actually increase both the serious/fatal accident frequency...while reducing crashes by only 15 per cent” (from 375 a year to 281 a year).
      Regarding the three fatalities along the proposed project area, Fond points out “the first fatal accident involved a driver running off the road into a light pole, and the vehicle’s brakes were not applied prior to the collision.
      “The second fatality involved a motorcycle in a police pursuit at Tiffany Blvd. The motorcyclist who was evading police, was ejected.
      “The third fatality involved a motorcycle and a vehicle at Rt. 224 and Hitchcock Rd. at night, which is not in the work area of the project.”
      ODOT says that right of way acquisitions for the Rt. 224 project will begin this spring; and the anticipated construction will begin in the spring of 2026 or the fall of 2027, more than a decade after the study was made about traffic flows along project area.
  11 File Applications For Superintendent’s Position At Boardman Local Schools  
  April 11, 2024 Edition  
     11 persons have filed applications for the position of superintendent of the Boardman Local School District. Current superintendent, Tim Saxton, will retire at the end of the school year.
      The Boardman Local School Board has tentatively scheduled the first round of interviews for those who have applied for the position next week, with a second round of interviews tentatively set for the week of Apr. 22.
      Those applying for the position are the following:
      Alphonse Cervello, West Blvd Elementary principal; Dr. Joseph Clark, former Westerville City Schools superintendent: Vincent Colaluca, Veregy account manager, former Austintown superintendent; Trisha Delaney, East Central Ohio ESC curriculum consultant; Michael Dobran, Massillon City Schools testing, gifted, and credit recovery coordinator; Joseph Geletka, Ironton City Schools superintendent; Gregory Kibler, Youngstown City Schools director for data and accountability; Michael King, Geneva Area City Schools high school principal/athletic director; Chris Neifer, East Palestine Schools superintendent; Peter Pirone, Struthers City Schools superintendent and John Wilson, Jefferson County ESC grant supervisor.
  Boardman School Teacher On Administrative Leave After Drug-Related Arrest  
  April 11, 2024 Edition  
     A Boardman Local School District elementary school music teacher has been placed on administrative leave following his arrest in Columbiana County on drug-related charges last weekend by members of the Mahoning Valley Human Trafficking Task Force.
      Pavalko, 44, was reportedly the driver for a man named Logan Larlham, 26, of East Judson, Youngstown, Oh., who is alleged to have answered an ‘undercover ad’ on a known prostitution web site, where he solicited a female to come to a motel room in Boardman.
      Larlham is alleged to have told the woman in the undercover ad if he got her the motel room, that she, in turn, could send him people who wanted to buy drugs, in particular, methamphetamine.
      According to reports, Larlham said he would have his driver, identified as Pavalko, pick up the woman; and when they did, he would also bring some meth.
      When Larlham and Pavalko arrived to pick-up the female, they were instead, met by agents of the task force.
      Larlham is wanted on a warrant issued out of Mahoning County for failing to register as a sex offender.
      Larlham has been charged with promoting prostitution amd poassesson of drugs, while Pavalko faces charges of possession of methamphetamine and permitting drug abuse.
      Upon learning of Pavalko’s arrest, the Boardman Local School District issued the following statement---
      “The Boardman School district has become aware that Robert Pavalko, a music teacher in the district, was arrested over the weekend in Columbiana County and is now facing drug possession charges.
      “The Boardman Schools take this and any allegation against a teacher very seriously, as student safety is the district’s top priority. The Boardman Schools work to ensure the safety, responsibility and professionalism of employees and students in the district.
      “While this incident occurred off school property and did not involve any students, Pavalko has been placed on administrative leave pending the outcome of legal proceedings and an internal investigation. The district’s decision underscores its commitment to maintaining the highest standards of conduct among its staff and ensuring the safety and well-being of all members of the school community.”
      Boardman Local School Supt. Timothy L. Saxton added “We are shocked and deeply disappointed by these allegations. The safety and well-being of our students and staff are our top priorities, and we will continue to work closely with law enforcement to address this matter swiftly and appropriately.”
      Pavalko has been employed with Boardman Local Schools for seven years.
  Developers Say Proposed Work On Rt. 224 Will Have Negative Impact On Businesses And Tax Revenue  
  ‘Substantial Change...Will Cause Significant Devaluation And Permanent Decrease In Marketability’:   April 4, 2024 Edition  
     BY JOHN A. DARNELL JR.
      associate editor
      A $20 million roadway project along Rt. 224, proposed by the Ohio Department of Transportation (ODOT), that will include construction of a sidewalk from Market St. to South Ave. and reduce access to businesses along that stretch, as well as create six lanes of traffic between Southern Blvd. and South Ave., and place barriers in the road to reduce left-hand turns will not improve traffic flows and will have negative impact on businesses, Dave Handel, developer of the Shops at Boardman Park, says.
      The proposed project also calls for the removal of traffic lights at California Ave. and Applewood Blvd., and could close access to Southern Park Mall from Rt. 224.
      ODOT says studies show reductions in red lights are linked to reductions in traffic accidents and improved traffic flows.
      “I believe the improvements proposed by ODOT will not only serve to deteriorate the current traffic conditions on Rt. 224, but will also negatively impact all of the businesses that have chosen to locate [along the road] because of the current traffic situation,” Handel said.
      Handel said several years ago he participated in an ODOT study and suggested improving Western Reserve Rd. would be serve to take non-retail and residential traffic off of Rt 224.
      “Given the current improvements currently underway on Western Reserve Rd. it finally appears those improvements will become a reality,” Handel said, adding “I have serious questions regarding the necessity of these dramatic changes along Rt. 224, in light of the ongoing improvement of Western Reserve Rd., and whether those improvements have been anticipated in ODOT planning.
      Handel said the tax revenue generated by businesses along Rt. 224 benefits not only Boardman Township, but also benefits Mahoning County.
      “These improvements [along Rt. 224] will undoubtedly have a negative impact on that revenue,” Handel said.
      Among the properties in the project area is Applewood Commons where ODOT is proposing elimination of a traffic light, and eliminating cross traffic to the Commons from the Shops at Boardman Park.
      “The substantial change to the main entrance to Applewood Commons will cause significant (property) devaluation and a permanent decrease in marketability to our 108,000 sq-ft shopping center.
      “Our anchor tenant, Dick’s Sporting Goods, has expressed serious concern regarding the loss of this signal,” Davie Fond Jr., managing partner of Fond Property Group, said, adding removal of the signal “will jeopardize our lease.”
      Fond Jr. suggested the ODOT project “would cause substantial, irreversible economic harm to our property and would likely cause us to consider legal options to protect our interests.”
      Fond Property Group owns Applewood Commons, and lots that serve Verizon Wireless, Stean-n-Shake, Raising Canes and Joann Fabrics.
      “Applewood Commons and the Shops at Boardman Park are collectively the largest retail destination in Boardman Township,” Fond Jr. said.
      He noted lease negotiations for the former Bed, Bath & Beyond and Pier I stores were halted when new businesses learned the traffic signal from the Shops at Boardman Park to Applewood Commons would be eliminated.
      Fond Jr. said he voiced his concerns to ODOT in Aug., 2023.
      “Despite my efforts, no attempt has been put forth on ODOT’s part for compromise regarding any of my concerns,” Fond Jr. said.
  Witness In Kufleitner Break-In Escapes Serious Injury When Car She Was Sitting In Was Shot At By A Suspect In The Case  
  Rasheed Rountree Has Been Indicted In Connection With 10 Dealership Break-Ins:   March 28, 2024 Edition  
     BY JOHN A. DARNELL JR.
      associate editor
      One of three suspects in the Oct. 29, 2023 burglary and theft of three cars valued at $234,512 at the Kufleitner auto dealership at 7901 Market St. in Boardman has been arrested and indicted in Cleveland on a charge of felonious assault upon a key witness in the Kufleitner break-in, who has already been adjudicated in Mahoning County.
      Rasheed Rountree, 41, of Cleveland, was arrested in connection with the Kufleitner break-in early January.
      Appearing before Boardman Court Judge Joseph Houser on Feb. 8 on charges related to the Kufleitner break-in, Rountree’s $20,000 bond was revoked.
      As the record of the court states, “For good cause shown, the defendant’s bond is revoked as a result of...violations of his conditions of bond, namely to obey all laws.”
      That ruling came four days after Cleveland police reported that Rountree was a suspect in an early morning shooting on Feb. 4 at a so-called “drag racing” event in a parking lot, where Ke’Sani Herron told Cleveland police that Rountree fired several rounds at a car she was in.
      Herron was arrested by Boardman police about a month after the Kufleitner break-in on charges of felony theft and breaking and entering.
      In a plea bargaining agreement, Herron entered a guilty plea to a reduced charge of misdemeanor theft, and 175 days of a 180 day jail sentence were suspended.
      Herron told police she was at Kufleitner’s the night of the break-in, and that Rountree asked her to take him to a dealership so he could steal cars to sell and make money for other criminal charges he was facing in Cuyahoga County.
      Det. Andy Humas, of the Geauga County Sheriff’s Office, says that Rountree has been arrested an indicted on a multi-million dollar theft and violent crime conspiracy, and that Rountree and his associates are well-known to break in the service door to car dealerships and steal vehicles.
      An assistant county prosecutor in Cuyahoga County, Atty. Brad Meyer, told local police that Rountree has been indicted on 10 dealership break-ins where multiple vehicles were stolen in each event, mostly being Dodge Hellcats, according to records obtained by The Boardman News.
      Herron told Cleveland police on Feb. 4 when she was at the drag racing event that she saw Rountree in a stolen Dodge Hellcat. She said that Rountree opened fire on the car she was in,
      According to Cleveland police, 13 spent shell casings were found in the parking lot.
      Herron was not struck by the gunfire, however sustained injury when glass fragments were embedded in a finger and her hip, Cleveland police said.
      “Herron stated she knew Rountree because she used to run with him and Rountree believes she snitched on him with a previous case with the Boardman Police Department which resulted in him going to jail,” a Cleveland police report said.
      As a result of the shooting incident in Cleveland, Boardman police have lodged a charge of intimidation of a witness against Rountree.
      A third suspect in the Oct., 2023 Kufleitner break-in has not, as yet, been arrested by Boardman police. That suspect is reported to be recovering from gunshot wounds.
      Kufleitner Dealership Break-Ins
      Also Reported On Jan. 5 and Mar. 25
      Boardman police are also investigating break-ins at Kuflietners on Jan. 5 and Mar. 25.
      In both instances, police believe the suspects flee from the dealership, then head west on Rt. 224 and get onto Rt. 11, traveling at very high rates of speed towards Cleveland.
      On Jan. 5 at 3:29 a.m. police responded to an alarm and found a 2023 Charger Scat Pack with a sunroof that had been shattered. A surveillance camera captured a man in the parking lot of the business exit a Dodge Durango and begin jumping on the sunroof of the Charger, valued at $67,575.
      Local police and the Ohio State Highway Patrol pursued the Charger at speeds reaching 100-miles-per-hour until it got onto Rt. 11 heading north. An OSP cruiser crashed during the pursuit, and the trooper was not injured.
      Shortly after midnight on Mon., Mar. 25 police received a call of potential suspicious persons in the parking lot of Kufleitner’s.
      Once observed, two suspects reportedly got into a Dodge Charger that fled south on Market St. and then headed west on Rt. 224. The Charger was next observed by a Mahoning County deputy sheriff northbound on Rt. 11.
      “The deputy attempted to catch up to the vehicle, but it fled at a high rate of speed,” Ptl. Nicholas Brent said.
      At Kufleitner’s, a silver Dodge Hellcat with a broken side window was found in the parking lot of the business.
  Board Of Education Names Hammerton Athletic Director At Boardman High School  
  Will Replace Marco Marinucci Who Is Retiring:   March 28, 2024 Edition  
     BY JOHN A. DARNELL JR.
      associate editor
      Meeting on Mon., Mar. 26, the Boardman Board of Education voted unanimously to name Jeff Hammerton as the district’s next Athletic Director.
      Hammerton will replace Marco Marinucci, who is retiring in June. Hammerton’s three-year contract begins July 1, 2024.
      Hammerton has served as the system’s assistant athletic director under Marinucci and is a math teacher at Robinwood Lane Elementary School.
      “Marco has done a tremendous job for us as our athletic director for the last five years, and Jeff has worked in tandem with him. The transition should be seamless for our athletes and coaches,” said Superintendent Tim Saxton. “Jeff also has a passion and energy that is contagious and can only benefit athletics in Boardman,” said Saxton.
      For the past two basketball seasons, Hammerton has served as head coach of Lady Spartans basketball. This season his team finished with a 19-6 record, and they went 34-15 under his direction over the last two seasons. In Dec. 2023, a Boardman win over Marlington gave Hammerton his 100th career coaching win.
      Hammerton is a 1992 graduate of Boardman High School. After high school, he attended Kent State University for his freshman year, then transferred to Youngstown State where he earned a degree in education.
      He has spent the last 24 years as a math teacher at Robinwood Lane.
      During his career with Boardman Local Schools, Hammerton has also coached freshman boy’s basketball, eighth grade boy’s basketball, as well as girl’s and boy’s tennis.
      He has earned laurels as Tennis Coach of the Year and, as well as girls basketball Coach of the Year by the Mahoning Valley Coaches Association and District 1 Ohio High School Basketball Coaches Association.
      In 2005, he was recognized as Wal-Mart Teacher of the Year.
      In his new position, Hammerton’s annual salary will be $90,424. He will oversee some 45 interscholastic teams at Boardman where some 700-plus student-athletes compete in sports.
      “I’ve worked closely with Marco, and I plan to continue building our programs, collaborating with coaches, and looking for more opportunities. I want to follow in the footsteps of some of the great coaches and leaders who mentored me, and hope to pass that leadership skill on to our young student athletes today.”
      Hammerton resides in Boardman with his wife, Gina, a teacher at West Blvd. Elementary. Their daughter, Mia, is a BHS graduate, and their son, Gabe, is a sophomore at BHS.
  School Officials Suggest Combining Center And Glenwood Schools Into One Building  
  March 21, 2024 Edition  
     Since 2000, Boardman Local School Enrollment Has Declined While Total Revenues Have Increased From $35.5 Million To $67 Million.
     
      47.6 Per Cent Of Students Economically Disadvantaged
     
      BY JOHN A. DANRELL JR.
      associate editor
      In a four minute message/video on You-Tube that was not distributed to the entire, taxpaying Boardman community, Boardman Local School District Supt. Timothy L. Saxton and School Board member John Landers raised the scepter of abandoning buildings that currently house Center Intermediate School, as well as Glenwood Jr. High School, and construct a new school building that would combine fifth though eighth grades.
      Saxton opened his remarks saying that a 12-member committee that includes school officials, administrators and ‘a nice dose of parents’ (an architect, an engineer and a parent with children in multiple school buildings) “are all advising and giving us input as to what a new replacement to what a new Center Intermediate could look like.”
      Saxton said the 12-member committee has been looking at how school financing impacts construction, has looked at the ‘current state’ of Center Intermediate School and looked at new construction concepts.
      The school superintendent indicated the committee “is working to see how we could partner with the Ohio Facilities Construction Commission (OFCC) to potentially build a new building.”
      The OFCC is a state agency that collaborates with the Ohio Legislature to establish the order of replacing school buildings across the state. The level of state aid provided by the OFCC is largely determined by ranking criteria. These criteria favor districts with relatively low property values. The state subsidy typically requires funding provided from the school district seeking such monies.
      Landers said sometime around 2014 that Boardman Local Schools engaged with the facilities commission “to evaluate potentially replacing Center.” He claimed at that time, the commission would provide 17 per cent of the needed funds for such work.
      “Now that figure is 31 per cent,” Landers said, adding “that allows more substantial conversation as we build a district master plan with that state agency.”
      Noting the facilities commission recommended replacing the Center Intermediate building, Landers said “one thing that was a surprise is they are calling to replace Glenwood Jr. High School (built in the 1960s) possibly in one building, or some sort of combined footprint.”
      Saxton then noted “We want to build this without pushing an additional tax burden onto our community...The good news is we passed a continuous improvement levy in November, 2022.” He added, “In the mix is changing interest rates,,,Are interest rates ready for us to move forward and go ahead with the financing?”
      Landers then said “Having separate fifth and sixth grade; and seventh and eighth grade buildings is important to us. Each would have separate wings and still sort of work like their own separate school...and would have shared spaces like a cafeteria or gymnasium.”
      Saxton concluded the video address saying he didn’t know where a new building would be located, noting “That’s a greater conversation with a greater-sized committee.”
      He added “We wouldn’t break ground for three years, and kids would be in the building in five years.”
      In was less than a decade ago, in Feb., 2016, that the Boardman Local School Board voted to place all fifth and sixth grade students into Center Middle School, and all seventh and eighth grade students into Glenwood Middle School.
      According to then Supt. Frank Lazzari, the realignment would help to “maximize educational and extra-curricular opportunities for students.”
      According to figures provided by Boardman Local Schools and the Ohio Department of Education (an audit released in June 2000), the local school district had total revenues of some $35.5 million. 311 certificated and 259 non-certificated or classified staff were employed and the district served an enrollment of 4,699 students.
      Almost a quarter century later, the Boardman Local School District has total annual revenues of some $67 million, while enrollment has dropped to 3,705 students. Today the district employs 271 certificated staff members and 244 classified employees.
      According to the district, 47.6 per cent of students attending the Boardman Local School are “economically disadvantaged.”
  Developer Of Senior Care Facility Pledges To Restore Woodland Area That Contractor ‘Disturbed’  
  Mitigation Plan To Replace Trees:   March 14, 2024 Edition  
      Meeting on Monday night, Boardman Township Trustees---Brad Calhoun, Larry Moliterno and Tom Costello--- heard a representative of Pivotal Housing Partners admit construction crews “became aggressive and disturbed three-quarters of an acre of a wooded area” when clearing land where a senior living facility will be built at 8034 South Ave., near Maple Dr. and Beech Dr.
      Peter Schweigerhart, a land agent for Pivotal, told Trustees as well as residents who live near the construction site “We are now trying to correct what was done and have a mitigation plan to replace the trees.”
      The land agent said when trees where cut down along the border of the project, “the area shouldn’t have been disturbed. Our new site contractors is aware of the issues.
      “We will not only preserve the area, we will restore it.”
      Among those who had previously expressed concern was Mary Jo Averall, whose Beech Ave. home abuts the construction site.
      She was pleased with Pivotal’s plan to correct the destruction of natural habitat, noting “the deer, opossums, turkeys, squirrels and raccoons are still coming to our area.”
      The mitigation plan was put into place after Boardman Township Planning/Zoning Director T.J. Keiran issued a stop work order on the property after he learned the land had been disturbed and crew were not following original plans.
      In another matter, Trustees approved a resolution to hire CT Consultants to provide engineering inspection services for the 2024 road resurfacing program at a cost not to exceed $49,534.
      The annual road resurfacing program will be 9 miles of roadway at a cost of about $1.6 million, Road Superintendent Marilyn Kenner said.
      Trustee Moliterno noted when he was first elected to office in 2007, the cost of resurfacing one mile of roadway was approximately $30,000.
      “Now the cost is $120,000 per mile,” Moliterno noted.
  Search For Applicants For Boardman Township Police Officers Includes In-Person Or On-Line Exams During Six Week Period  
  March 14, 2024 Edition  
     The Boardman Township Civil Service Commission will oversee an Entry Level Police Officer exam from March 11 to April 18. Testing will be provided through the National Testing Network (NTN) www.nationaltestingnetwork.com that offers a flexible testing schedule that allows candidates to take the exam in person or through an online proctor anytime during the six week testing period.
      Civil service test points will be added for
      military service, educational background, and current OPOTC certification.
      Panel interviews, background investigation, voice stress examination, drug screening, medical physical, and a physical fitness test will follow as the next steps in the employment process.
      Applicants are able to apply for and take the Boardman Civil Service test without a completed police academy certification.
      The wage scale for non-rank patrol officers ranges from $50,003 to $68,432 annually with wage/step and cost of living increases based on a collective bargaining agreement. Officers also receive health care benefits including an annual health savings account, annual uniform allowance, holiday pay, accrued sick time, training and attendance bonuses
      The mission of the Boardman Police Department is to enhance the quality of life in Boardman Township by working in partnership with the community to preserve life, enforce the law, provide quality services, reduce the fear of crime, and promote joint problem-solving for safe, secure neighborhoods. The department consists of staffing positions for 63 sworn police officers, which includes rank positions for eight sergeants, four lieutenants, and two captains, along with 21 non-sworn professional staff.
      In addition to patrol, officers have several numerous opportunities to fill specialty positions within the department including detective, crime scene investigator, narcotics enforcement, SWAT, traffic enforcement, canine officer, school resource officers, and assignment to federal task forces.
      “An important focus of the department is to provide training opportunities for officers from both internal training sessions and individual attendance in outside law enforcement courses, Police Chief Todd Werth said.
      Additional Information
      Visit the Boardman Civil Service web page https://www.boardmantwp.com/civil-service/ for information and an application packet; or contact the Civil Service Commission at boardmancivilservice@gmail.com, or 330-726-4177 ext. 61701. You may also contact Boardman Chief of Police Todd Werth at twerth@boardmantwp.com or call him at 330-770-1429 with any questions.
  Youngstown Woman Makes False Claim About Owning East Midlothian Building  
  Where She Wants To Operate A ‘Transitional Center’:   March 7, 2024 Edition  
     Site Was To Be Used As Housing For International Students Who Were Recruited By A Pennsylvania-Based Company To Attend Local High Schools
     
      BY JOHN A. DARNELL JR.
      associate editor
      According to the Boardman Township Office of Planning/Zoning, a 58-year-old Youngstown women lied to the Ohio Department of Rehabilitation and Correction when she applied for a license to bring ex-convicts to an apartment building at 365 East Midlothian Blvd. where the woman said she operates as a “transitional center.”
      Andrea Mahone Blackmon also provided false information when she applied for a rental unit certificate in 2023 and 2024 from the Boardman Township Planning/Zoning Office, according to the department’s director, T.J. Keiran.
      “False information was provided using Just In Time Initiative as the property owner, and Andrea Blackmon signing as the property owner,” Keiran said.
      According to the Mahoning County Auditor’s Office, the property is owned by American Scholar Ltd., of 516 Conneaut Lake Rd., Adamsville, Pa., that purchased the property in 2015 for the sum of $195,000. Its tax address is listed as 10 Penn Ave., in Greenville, Pa. that is registered to American Scholar Group.
      Prior to the sale, Michael Kurilla, of MK Consulting, 1003 Polley Dr., Austintown, Oh., told the Boardman Township Zoning Office the prospective purchaser, Edward Doerr, of American Scholar, “would propose to utilize…the building as a student dormitory for international students attending local high schools.”
      According to a rental registration form submitted to Boardman Township in Apr., 2019, the apartment building at 365 East Midlothian Blvd. was approved for American Scholar, that used its tax address as 10 Penn Ave., Greenville, Pa.
      “Registration is transferable only upon notification to…Planning and Zoning within 30 days of property transfer, Tricia D’Avignon, then assistant director, said on the 2019 certificate of registration.
      Without such notification, a rental registration (for 12 units) was approved in 2021, andthat stated the owner of the property was listed as Andrea Blackmon/Just In Time, P.O. Box 6400, Youngstown, Oh.
      According to records of the Ohio Attorney General’s Office, currently six registered sex offenders currently live at the apartment building at 365 East Midlothian Blvd.
      Blackmon is featured on a banner on front of the building that touts the “Andrea Mahome Foundation,” whose address is listed as 365 East Midlothian Blvd. On the west side of the building is a sign that touts “American Scholar: Honor-Integrity-Excellence.”
      In addition to the foundation, a business, Paramount Property Investments, says it is also located at 365 East Midlothian Blvd.
      On Dec. 26, 2023, the Boardman Township Planning/Zoning Department received a request from the Mahoning County Building Inspector to provide “Zoning Compliance Authorization for up to 20 occupants in dormitory-style housing” at 365 East Midlothian Blvd.
      Compliance with Boardman Township zoning codes was sought to provide the ‘Transitional Center’ at 365 East Midlothian Blvd. with an occupancy permit to “obtain a license and enter into a contract with the Ohio Department of Rehabilitation and Correction in order to have individuals released from prison discharged to live at her (Mahone Blackmon’s) facility,” Keiran said.
      According to the planning/zoning director, Mahone Blackmon said in a television interview in 2023 she operated an employment agency on the first floor of the building at 365 East Midlothian Blvd., “and then our second and third floors are for guys that are coming home from any type of drug rehab. They need to be clean for at least six months and sincere about going to work. Same with guys coming home, guys and girls coming home from prison…”
      Keiran has notified David Ho, purported to be the CEO of American Scholar Group, of Penn Ave., Greenville, Pa., the property at 365 East Midlothian Blvd. is classified as a ‘group home,’ however is operated as a multi-family group home “without first having obtained a conditional use permit as required by the Boardman Township Zoning Resolution.” He said the Andrea Mahone Transitional Center at the “apartment complex” should “cease operating.”
      In addition, Keiran says the Just In Time Employment Agency LLC and Andrea Mahone Foundation are being operated at 365 East Midlothian Blvd. in violation of the township zoning resolution, noting “general office uses are not permitted in the R-2 zoning district.”
      The planning/zoning director says in his letter to Mr. Ho, “false information was provided on the 2023 and 2024 rental unit certification renewal applications, “including using ‘Just In Time Initiative’ as the property owner and Andrea Blackmon signing as the property owner.”
      According to the Mahoning County Auditor’s Office. The property at 366 East Midlothian Blvd. is $2,723.42 delinquent in property taxes.
      Mahone Blackmon is a member of Mahoning County Children’s Services Advisory Committee.
      She says her foundation is a partner with Mahoning County Children’s Services, Ohio Department of Rehabilitation and Correction, the Youngstown City School District, Trumbull County Children’s Services, Mahoning County Public Health, Pathways Hub/Mahoning Valley, Just In Time Employment Agency, Gateway America, LTJ Development LLC and the city of Youngstown.
      Mahone Blackmon says she developed the welfare-to-work program in 1991 for Mahoning County Job and Family Services, and that “birthed” the Just in Time Employment Agency. She received a $20,832 PPP loan in 2021, according to the United States Treasury, that said the funds helped to retain “one job.” In addition, the registered agent for LTJ Development (a partner with Mahone’s foundation) is Just In Time Employment Agency
  Boardman High School Marching Band At Disney World  
  March 7, 2024 Edition  
     THE BOARDMAN HIGH SCHOOL MARCHING BAND moves down the midway of the Magic Kingdom at Disney World in Orlando, Florida last weekend under the direction of Tom Ruggieri. Students missed two days of classes to perform at the Magic Kingdom. Leading the band and carrying the banner are Kyle Viars and Ian McCaskey
  St. Patrick’s Day Parade Sun., Mar. 10  
  February 29, 2024 Edition  
      The 46th annual Mahoning Valley St. Patrick’s Day Parade will get underway at 1:00 p.m. on Sun., Mar. 10 in Boardman. The parade route begins at the Township Government Center and travels north to Southwoods Dr. Grand Marshal for this year’s parade is the voice of Youngstown State football, Bob Hannon. Jimmy Sutman is the Lord Mayor of Kilkenny and Ockerman Award winner is Tim Kelly.
  Surveillance Cameras Played Key Role In Arrest Of Suspect In Murder Investigation  
  February 29, 2024 Edition  
     High Speed Chase On Market St. And Southern Blvd. Ended After 30-Year-Old Man Was Found Shot To Death
     
      BY JOHN A. DARNELL JR.
      associate editor
      The arrest of a 24-year-old man, Jerome Tubbs, in connection with the Jan. 6 murder of 30-year-old Michael Kosarich, of Struthers, Oh. was in large part aided by the review of images obtained from hundreds of hours of surveillance tapes captured along Market St. and Southern Blvd. during an investigation led by Boardman police detectives Greg Stepuk and Chad Doran.
      The surveillance tapes were obtained by police from local businesses along both roadways.
      Kosarich’s bullet-riddled body was found by police in a Ford Fusion he was driving near 2:30 a.m. in a parking lot at 5205 Market St., at the intersection of Indianola Rd. He was pronounced dead at 3:08 a.m. at Mercy Health/Youngstown.
      Surveillance cameras taken near the time Kosarich was found indicate his car was being closely followed by a dark-colored sedan during a chase the police said reached high speeds along Market St. and Southern Blvd.
      As police reports indicate, a camera on a business in the 5400 block of Market St. shows Kosarich’s car heading towards Youngstown (going north) at a high rate of speed, closely followed by a dark-colored sedan “at a similar speed.”
      That claim is substantiated by a surveillance camera from another business that was reviewed by Sgt. Glen Paetton.
      “Around 2:23 a.m., the Ford Fusion is traveling along Market St. going northbound at a high rate of speed. It appears as though the Fusion is being chased by a dark-colored sedan,” Sgt. Patton said.
      Surveillance tapes indicate the chase ends when the Fusion pulled into the parking lot of 5205 Market St. The dark-colored sedan then exits the parking lot, travels one block and turns left onto Stanton Ave. going to Southern Blvd. where it is believed at one time, the two cars once traveled.
      A railroad line follows Southern Blvd. and security cameras along the line provided police with additional details in their investigation.
      And then, a dark-colored sedan, believed to be involved in the chase, was captured at Sheetz at Boardman-Poland Rd. and Southern Blvd. It was there that surveillance tapes captured a man exiting the car and entering the business, where the man walks into the bathroom, discards something in the trash, and then leaves the business.
      That evidence also led police to believe a Chrysler 200 car was indeed the dark-colored sedan involved in the chase and on Jan. 21, veteran Boardman Ptl. Evan Beil located the car at 235 Mathews Rd. He also saw the car two days later at a car wash at 6410 South Ave. and said “I was able to positively identify the driver as [Jerome] Tubbs,” adding “Tubbs was wearing a camouflage jacket…the same jacket from the video at Sheetz” on Jan. 6.
      Tubbs made an initial appearance on the murder charge last week in Boardman Court where he entered a plea of not guilty and was awarded a court-appointed attorney (at public cost).
      Tubbs was arrested on Feb. 16 at the home of his mother at 291 Potomac Ave. in Youngstown by members of the U.S. Marshal’s Service.
     
  Easter Bunny Coming To Southern Park Mall  
  February 29, 2024 Edition  
     In celebration of spring, Southern Park Mall invites area families to join in on family-friendly festivities, including Photos with Bunny and Besties & Bunny throughout the month of March.
      “We are excited to once again celebrate the Easter season through colorful events that make Southern Park Mall blossom with a sense of community,” said Brian Gabbert, general manager at Southern Park Mall. “We are committed to providing ways for guests to engage, connect, and explore year-round, and look forward to welcoming families when they visit with the Easter Bunny.”
      The Easter Bunny will be available for visits and photos at Center Court, March 1 through March 30. Guests can save time by purchasing their photo package in advance; and walk-ins are also welcome. Guests who make a reservation will receive a Virtual Basket of Goodies valued at $20.
      For guests celebrating Easter with their four-legged friends, Besties and Bunny provides a special experience for guests and their pets. Families will have the opportunity to capture a family photo with their furry friend and the Easter Bunny on Mondays, March 4, March 11 or March 18, from 5:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. Well behaved pets on leashes are welcome. Guests are encouraged to make a reservation and walk-ups are also welcome.
      For more information on Photos with the Easter Bunny and other events at Southern Park Mall visit southernparkmall.com.
  Boardman School Supt. Saxton Will Leave Post In July  
  February 22, 2024 Edition  
     In a four-paragragh letter to “Spartan Families” issued last week over the Boardman Local School System’s social media platform, Supt. Tim Saxton announced last week that he will resign his post, effective July 31.
      In announcing his departure, Saxton siad “I have been blessed to be a part of this district for over 40 years; as a student, a summer worker, a principal, the director of operations and finally as superintendent for the last eight years.”
      The superintendent is in the third year of a three-year retire/rehire contract with Boardman Local Schools that carries an annual salary of some $91,000.
      He was first approved for the post on Dec, 21, 2015 at the age of 49, succeeding Frank Lazzeri.
      Prior to his appointment as superintendent, Saxton, a 1984 graduate of Boardman High School, served 11 years as principal of Boardman High School, then served the district for three years as its director of operations.
      As operations director, he was instrumental in planning and fundraising for Boardman Stadium.
      A graduate of Grove City College, Saxton earned a masters degree from Westminster College.
      He taught in the Bedford School District in Cleveland, and served as a teacher, coach and assistant principal in the Canfield Schools prior to coming to Boardman.
      His father, Larry, served as superintendent of the Boardman Local School System from 1996-2000.
      In tandem with the resignation announcement, the school system put up a 1-minute, 36-second You Tube display where school board members John Landers and Vickie Davis said forms “will be sent out” to school system families as well as community members seeking input on suggestions for a replacement for Supt. Saxton.
      After reviewing those questionnaires, the superintendent’s position will be posted on an employment site provided by the Mahoning County Educational Service Center.
      “Then the board will inform the public of the next step,” Davis said.
      In addition to finding a new superintendent, the Boardman Local School Board is seeking a new athletic director, as current AD Marco Marinucci has announced his retirement at the end of the current school year.
  YSU Athletes Barred From Night Club After Student Found With Serious Head Wound  
  YPD Officer Burton said he contacted Youngstown State police and requested investigators forward surveillance footage from the Erie Terminal Building and bars and contacted the YSU football coaching staff to identify all involved:   February 22, 2024 Edition  
     Youngstown State’s Director of Athletics, Ron Strollo, has issued a mandate to athletic coaches at the school that the Social Night Club on Commerce St., in downtown Youngstown, Oh. is “off limits to student-athletes until further notice.”
      Strollo’s mandate was issued last week after Youngstown police reported there was an altercation at the club in the early-morning hours of Sun., Feb. 11.
      Jonathan Rosa, manager at the club, told police “the combatants were all members of the Youngstown State football team,” YPD Officer William Burton said, adding that “an altercation occurred in the bar and two players were escorted out by security.” As they were being escorted out of the place, police were told “another player began to yell and scream” at the club’s security officer.
      Rosa said “another player, not involved in the original altercation, came from the crowd on the sidewalk and punched...with full force” a 21-year-old man in the head. The victim needed seven stitches to close the wound on the top of his head.
      “The victim (a YSU student) was not involved in any of the altercations leading up to getting punched,” Officer Burton said, adding “he was apparently only a bystander watching the altercation when he was hit.”
      Rosa and the security guard told police “they knew for sure the patrons who were originally thrown out, and the man who struck [the 21-year-old] was a football player.”
      Rosa told police the man who struck the 21-year-old was “one of the twins.”
      Officer Burton said he contacted Youngstown State police and requested “investigators forward surveillance footage from the Erie Terminal Building and bars and contact the YSU football coaching staff to identify all involved.”
      The victim was taken to Mercy Health/Youngstown, but was unable to speak with police due to receiving treatment. Police said the victim’s condition was “listed as stable, however he did receive a significant injury.”
  ‘Last Mayor’ Of a Missouri Ghost Town Endorses 6th District Congressional Candidate  
  February 15, 2024 Edition  
      Dr. Rick Tsai, one of three Republican candidates for the 6th congressional seat previously held by new YSU president Bill Johnson, is touting an endorsement he has received by the ‘last mayor’ of what is now a ghost town in Missouri.
      Tsai, of 49500 McClure Rd., East Palestine, Oh., will be on the Mar. 19 primary ballot against State Sen. Mike Rulli, 402 Lisbon Rd., Salem, Oh. and State Rep. Reggie Stoltzfus, of 13789 Telphak St. SE, Minerva, Oh.
      The ‘last mayor’ of Times Beach, Missouri, Marilyn Leister, says that Tsai “ has my endorsement as Congressman for District 6, Ohio. As the last mayor of Times Beach, Missouri, I have watched him out in East Palestine searching for the truth and striving to protect the citizens of East Palestine, as well as the environment.
      I’ve watched him out in the community interact with the residents of East Palestine with compassion, concern and with intelligence and empathy.
      “Rick is the personification of the American dream. He built his business with hard work and passion and then helped others build theirs. He never had political aspirations but his values and love for this country will not let him simply stand by and watch greedy politicians hold hands with corrupt entities and sell the soul of this country. He is a man of principle and integrity and is cut from the fabric that made this country great.”
      Times Beach is a ghost town in St. Louis County, Missouri, 17 miles southwest of St. Louis and two miles east of Eureka.
  Noise, Fencing And Lighting Among Topics At Zoning Hearing On Market St. Dairy Queen  
  February 15, 2024 Edition  
      The Boardman Zoning Board of Appeals will meet Tues., Feb. 20 when they are scheduled to have a hearing on issues at a Dairy Queen outlet at 6532 Market St.
      Among the matters that will be under consideration is a zoning permit that was issued in error on Dec. 20. 2021 for construction of the Dairy Queen.
      Boardman Township Director of Planning and Zoning, T.J. Keiran says the zoning permit “was issued in error because it approved a site plan that contained proposed improvements that do not comply with the developmental standards in Boardman Township’s zoning resolution.
      Keiran notes an audible electric device does not meet set back requirements, and as well the business does not provide an on-street loading site as required by the township’s zoning resolution.
      Keiran also says a drive-thru at the business cannot be considered as a “primary use” because zoning codes define a restaurant as “an establishment with table service whose principal business is selling unpackaged food and beverages to a customer in a ready-consume state, in individual servings, or in non-disposable containers, provided that no drive-thru window is permitted.
      “For the purposed of this definition, a restaurant shall not include any drive-thru or carry-out services, unless a drive-thru facility is permitted as an accessory use.”
      Keiran has identified several unresolved zoning violations at the Dairy Queen, including the following---
       •Unfinished landscaping (that includes cement debris);
       •Light pollution (parking lot lighting was approved at a height of 21-ft. and current parking lot light poles are some 30-ft. high);
       •No provision for a loading area; and
       •Unpermitted temporary signs that advertise menu items.
      Keiran suggests the business install a fence to lessen the impact of the business to surrounding, residential property owners.
      “The fence will help ensure the essential character of the neighborhood will not be substantially altered, and the adjoining properties will not suffer substantial detriment,” Keiran said.
      The Dairy Queen at 6532 Market St. is operated by Raymond and Christine Smith, of Canfield. They will be represented at the Zoning Board of Appeals hearing by Atty. Jason Rebraca who seeks a variance in setback requirements for the property’s drive-thru.Dairy Queen has been before the Zoning Board of Appeals on Sept., 2023 and Oct., 2023, without resolution to the issues raised by the Boardman Township Planning/Zoning Office.
      The hearing on the matter will be held at Boardman Township’s main fire station at Stadium Dr. and Market St., at 5:30 p.m. because the Government Center is temporarily closed for HVAC repairs.
  Greenford Christian Church To Open Boardman Campus On Sun., Feb. 11  
  February 8, 2024 Edition  
     ‘It’s Go Time’ for Greenford Christian Church (GCC). Their new Boardman Campus Worship Center, 7782 Glenwood Ave. (across from Boardman High School) will hold its first two services on Sun., Feb 11. The former St. Mary’s Byzantine Church, 7782 Glenwood Ave., located on a 3.4-acre site, was purchased in Sept., 2021 by Greenford Christian at a cost of $260,000, and since that time has been undergoing extensive renovations. Two services are set for Feb. 11, at 9:30 a.m. and 11:00 a.m. Sheldon DeVries is lead pastor, who notes “More services will be added as needed, especially for our Easter Services that will be held on March 31.” Greenford’s Boardman Campus will launch a course, ‘Miracles,’ beginning Wed., Feb. 21, from 6:30 p.m. until 7:30 p.m., where those attending will be introduced to an interactive study of Jesus Christ in a fun, relaxed, discussion-oriented environment. To register go to greenfordchristian.org/winter-courses. For more information email info@greenfordchristian.org or call 330-533-3278.
  Proposed $20 Million ODOT Project Along Rt. 224 Would Create Sidewalk Along Roadway, Put Barriers Near Lanes Of Travel, Close Entrances/Exits To Parking Lots  
  February 1, 2024 Edition  
     BY JOHN A. DARNELL JR.
      associate editor
      Rt. 224, all the way from Boardman Center to Tiffany Blvd. could have a specially-designated right and left hand turn lanes, and as well, a sidewalk along the whole stretch, the Ohio Department of Transportation (ODOT) has proposed.
      ODOT announced in July, 2023 that funding has been secured for what it called “major safety improvements.” ODOT said construction will begin in 2026, and set cost of the project at some $20 million.
      The project also calls for eliminating a traffic light at California Ave. and Rt. 224;, closing-off one entrance/exit to the Southern Park Mall, and limiting access to business parking lots along Rt. 224.
      At Boardman Center (Market St. and Rt. 224), plans calls for aligning road lanes, lengthening some turn lanes and providing an ‘audible countdown’ for pedestrians at the intersection.
      Between the intersection and Southern Blvd., barriers (concrete medians) will be erected in the roadways in an effort to make the roadway more safe and limit left hand turns.
      Along Rt. 224, near Applewood Blvd., signalized ‘u-turns’ will be created for both east and west travel, for what ODOT says is for mitigation access management measures.”
      All of the proposed changes are currently provided by ODOT via a virtual open house regarding proposed safety improvements where a pre-recorded presentation is available to provide an overview of the project history, present the recommended alternative and receive input from the public.
      The proposed project is currently in the environmental engineering phase that includes environmental studies and preliminary plan development. Right-of-way acquisition is scheduled to begin in the spring of 2024, followed by construction in the spring of 2026.
      The virtual open house is available through March 1 and can be viewed on the project website at the following link: publicinput.com/mah224#tab-40818.
      “We invite the public to visit the project website, view the presentation, review the available project information and the recommended alternatives, and submit your questions or comments via email, on the project website, or by calling 330-786-2274. Comments received by March 1, 2024, will be compiled, replied to, and posted on the project website,” according to Sean Carpenter, district environmental specialist for ODOT.
  Congressional Seat, Appeals Court Judge, County Prosecutor Among Posts To Be Contested In Mar. 19 Primary Elections  
  February 1, 2024 Edition  
     There will be no local issues on the Mar. 19 primary election ballot that will include two elections for the congressional seat vacated when Bill Johnson became president of Youngstown State University in January. Both elections will have the same slate of candidates for the 6th Congressional District Seat that includes Mahoning County---On the Democratic side of the ledger, Ryan Finzer, of Bedford Heights faces Michael Kripchak, of Youngstown. Republican candidates for Johnson’s former seat include State Sen. Michael Rulli, of Salem; as well as Rick Tsai, of East Palestine and Reggie Stolrzfus, of Minerva.
      Ohio Gov. Mike DeWine called for the special primary and then a June 11 special general election to fill Johnson’s seat.
      A seat on the Seventh District Court of Appeals is a race between two Republicans, Mary DeGenaro, of Poland; and Kaitlyn Dickey, of Lisbon.
      DeGenaro served as a judge from 2001 to 2018 on the Seventh District Court of Appeals; and on January 25, 2018, Gov. John Kasich announced his appointment of DeGenaro to fill the seat vacated by the retirement of William O’Neill on the Ohio Supreme Court. She was sworn in as Ohio’s 159th Justice on January 28, 2018.
      A Columbiana County Municipal Court Judge, Dickey, born and raised in Columbiana County, was first elected to the bench in 2019 (reportedly spending more than $300,000 of her own money during the campaign for the seat).
      There is only two candidates for Mahoning County Prosecutor, formerly held by Paul Gains, that sets-up a general election between Democrat Gina DeGenova, of North Lima (whom Gains favored for appointment to the seat prior to his retirement), and Republican Lynn Maro, of Poland, who has a strong reputation for her knowledge of criminal law.
      While Democrat Dan Dascenzo, of Boardman, is the lone candidate from his party on the primary ballot for Mahoning County Clerk of Court; two Republicans are also seeking the post---David Schaffer, of Struthers; and Michael Ciccone, of Austintown. Dascenzo was appointed as Clerk of Court last year upon the retirement of Anthony Vivo.
      Incumbent County Recorder Noralyn Palermo, of Youngstown, a Democrat, is seeking re-election. On the March primary ballot for the position is Republican Richard Scarsella, of Boardman.
      Palermo has worked in the recorder’s office for almost a half-century. She was first appointed county recorder in June, 2007 and has been elected to four, four-year terms.
      Elected to the governing board of the Education Service Center of Eastern Ohio in 2005, Scarsella was also appointed to the Mahoning County Career and Technical Center board and continues serving today. He was appointed to the Mahoning Valley Regional Council of Governments governing board in 2017.
      There will be one issue on the ballot for voters in Boardman to consider, a five-year renewal of a 3/4-per cent criminal justice sales tax. The tax provides monies for the county’s criminal justice fund pays for the departments such as the sheriff’s office, jail, prosecutor’s office, 911 center and coroner’s office.
     
  NINERS ADVANCE TO SUPER BOWL  
  February 1, 2024 Edition  
     Under the direction of Jed York, who last year was inducted into the Cardinal Mooney High School Hall of Fame, the San Francisco 49ers staged a monstrous comeback last Sunday to beat the Detroit Lions, 34-31, and advance to the Super Bowl for the eighth time in franchise history. The Niners will square-off against the Kansas City Chiefs.
      After winning the Big Game in their first five appearances under the direction of York’s uncle, Eddie DeBartolo Jr., the Niners have dropped their last two contests in the Super Bowl.
      In the early going this year, San Francisco is a two-point favorite to win this year’s Super Bowl.
      In their last appearance in the Super Bowl in 2020, the Niners fell to the Chiefs, 31-20.
  Cardinal Mooney Hall Of Fame Event Feb. 18  
  January 25, 2024 Edition  
      Cardinal Mooney High School will induct 13 persons into its Athletic Hall of Fame during ceremonies set for Sun., Feb. 18 at the Lake Club. Inductees are Robert Babyak, class of 1970, significant contributions; Amber Bodrick, class of 2005, basketball; Mike Kachmer, class of 1976, post graduate achievement; Anthony Lucente, class of 1977, football; Michael Mazerik, class of 2006, track; Daniel McCarthy, class of 2008, football; Edwin Morales, class of 2003, bowling; Tim Reigrut, class of 2003, soccer; Joseph Scott, class of 1992, baseball; Mike Silvanya, class of 2000, golf; Richard Solak, class of 2005, football; Kelli Willis, class of 2006, soccer; and Michael Zordich Jr., class of 2008, football.
  Dark Colored Sedan Speeding Down Market St. Could Be Key To Finding Suspect In Jan. 6 Murder Investigation  
  January 25, 2024 Edition  
     BY JOHN A. DARNELL JR.
      associate editor
      Boardman police indicate a key to finding a suspect in the Jan. 6 murder of a 30-year-old Struthers man, Michael Kosarich, could be linked to the driver of a dark-colored sedan that was captured by security cameras speeding along Market St. about the time a resident of Indianola Rd. made a 9-1-1 calling saying he heard seven gunshots shortly before 2:30 a.m., and saw a car with an open door in the parking lot of Family Video, at Indianola Rd. and Market St.
      First law enforcement officer to get to the parking lot was Ptl. Erin Higgins, who located a Ford Fusion with its lights on. Officer Higgins said there were “multiple” bullet holes in the driver’s side back door and the driver’s front window, and “No movement from the driver.” The driver, later identified as Kosarich, was sitting in the driver’s seat, leaning to the middle console with what appeared to be multiple gunshot wounds.
      Lanes LifeTrans and Boardman Fire Department EMS rendered aid to Kasorich and he was taken to Mercy Health/Youngstown where he was pronounced dead 3:08 a.m.
      Police learned that Kosarich had been at the Nimrod (The Rod) Bar, 3726 Loveland Rd., Youngstown, Oh., before he was found in the car.
      In late Dec., 2023, Kosarich was lodged into the Mahoning County Jail on a fugitive from justice warrant, three law enforcement officers confirmed. When the agency from western Pennsylvania that had issued the warrant did not seek extradition, Kosarich was released from jail on New Year’s Eve.
      According to Butler County, Pa. court records, Kosarich was scheduled to appear in court on a ‘PLA’ hearing in Mar. 2024 on an issue related to the mother of his 1-year-old daughter.
      Since his death, two ‘Go Fund Me’ accounts have been established.
      One, said to be organized by Brittany Milone, was begun “to help Michael’s mom and family with funeral expenses, etc.
      “Michael lost his life unexpectedly and tragically,” Milone said.
      A second, is said to be organized by Laura Lindgren and Krystal Shoaf.
      Laura says she made the Go Fund Me page…“for one of my closest friends, Krystal, “due to a horrific act of gun violence that took the life of her partner, Mike, and father of her youngest daughter…and main father figure to her older children…
      “The money raised would go to helping her be able to focus on her children and be able to grieve without the extra worry of paying for bills and groceries.
      “Right before we lost Mike, her new car was hit by a deer and he was going to do those repairs on his own. Now she will need some help for that as well.”
      Laura’s post says the little girl “still needs clothing and diapers, all the things a baby needs.”
      Another post on the site, from Krystal, says “Just so people know, this Go Fund Me is to help my family….Mike left me with a mountain of debt and was supposed to fix my car. So everything is on me.”
      Anyone with any information, especially anyone who might have seen the dark-colored car or captured it on a ring doorbell or security camera in the early morning hours of Jan. 6 can contact Det. Greg Stepuk (330-726-4144 or 330-729-2085) at the Boardman Police Department.
     
  Greenford Christian Church Will Open Boardman Campus With Feb. 11 Services  
  January 25, 2024 Edition  
      A new church is scheduled to open for worship services on Sun., Feb. 11.
      The former St. Mary’s Byzantine Church, 7782 Glenwood Ave., located on a 3.4-acre site, was purchased in Sept., 2021 by Greenford Christian Church at a cost of $260,000, and since that time has been undergoing extensive renovations.
      Greenford Chirstian Church, founded some 200 years ago, holds Sunday worship services at its main campus, located at 11767 Lisbon Rd., Greenford; as well as at an Austintown campus, located at 150 Victoria Rd. Upwards of 3,500 people are attracted to those services every Sunday.
      Church attendance, or lack thereof, was a key to the decision of Greenford Christian Church to open a Boardman campus.
      As its lead pastor, Sean Kelly, noted when the Glenwood Ave. site was purchased, studies show an estimated 29,000 people living in Boardman do not attend church on a regular basis.
      “We want that to change. We want to reach as many people in Christ as we possibly can,” Pastor Kelly said.
      Greenford’s Boardman location will begin with two services, at 9:30 a.m. and 11:00 a.m. on Sun., Feb. 11.
      During the 9:30 a.m. worship service, children’s programming, including for middle school and high school students, will be provided. There were also be an 11:00 a.m. service.
      “More services will be added as needed, especially for our Easter Services that will be held on March 31,” says Sheldon DeVries, lead pastor at the Boardman church campus.
      He says that “Greenford Christian Church/Boardman is a church where all people are welcome. We offer a real, relaxed and relevant worship service, with understandable preaching and inspiring worship. Our hope is that at our Boardman Campus, strangers will become friends and friends will become family.”
      Greenford Christian Church is associated with the Restoration Movement - Christian Church.
  Man Armed With 9mm Pistol Arrested After He Had Entered Boardman High School Where A Concert Was Being Held  
  Christian Williams Said He Had Ingested Fentynal, Drove Through Yards On Hitchcock Rd.:   January 18, 2024 Edition  
     BY JOHN A/ DANRELL JR.
      associate editor
      A 43-year-old man who said he had ingested fentynal and pills, walked into Boardman High School last week near 7:30 p.m. (on Wed., Jan. 10) armed with a 9mm pistol, as a band concert, attended by students and parents, was being held in the Performing Arts Center.
      Tim Tuite, assistant director of the Boardman High School Bands and Director of Bands at Boardman Center Intermediate School, told police as he entered the school, a man identified as 43-year-old Christian Williams, of 9040 Shaffer Rd., North Jackson, Oh., followed him into the school.
      Police said that Tuite became suspicious of Williams, whom he observed was carrying a firearm on his waistband. Tuite confronted Williams and after clearing a hallway of students, ordered Williams off school property. Several adults at the school assisted Tuite and they were able to get him to leave the property.
      Police quickly found Williams near Glenwood Ave. where he was confronted by Ptl. Joe Lamping and taken into custody at gunpoint.
      Officer Breanna Jones said that in addition to the weapon, Williams had two, loaded ammunition magazines on his hip, and a socket suspected to be used to smoke crack cocaine was also seized.
      Williams was taken to the Boardman Police Department for booking where Ptl. Jones noted “Williams stated he took fentynal and ‘benzos’ and was beginning to overdose. He was taken to Mercy Health/Boardman and after treatment was lodged in the Mahoning County Jail on charges of possessing weapons while intoxicated, inducing panic, illegal conveyance of a firearm in a school safety zone, and possession of drug paraphernalia.
      About two hours before the incident at the high school, police said Williams was driving along Hitchcock Rd. when his car went off the roadway and struck several mailboxes, and he then fled. The vehicle was located parked on Green Garden Dr.
      After Williams was arrested, police asked the man what happened, to which Officer Lamping said he replied, “What the f--- does it look like, I was in a crash.”
      Williams said he was on Hitchcock Rd. when he went off the road. He refused to take a field sobriety test, and was charged with driving while impaired, failure to control and leaving the scene of an accident.
      Police said a powder substance was observed in his nostrils, and Williams continually nodded-off as officers were attempting to speak with him.
      Officer Lamping noted “an interview was not able to be conducted, as Williams was not coherent or cooperative enough to provide answers.”
      Williams appeared in Boardman Court on Jan. 11 where he entered a plea of not guilty. He claimed to be indigent and the court ordered appointment of counsel at public cost.
  Woman Who Thought She Was Jumping Onto Inflated Air Mattress At Extreme Air Files Law Suit  
  January 18, 2024 Edition  
      A suit has been filed in Mahoning County Common Pleas Court in behalf of a Negley, Oh. teenager who was injured in mid-January, 2023 when she dropped-off a platform and fell 15-ft. onto an air mattress that was not inflated at Extreme Air, 360 McClurg Rd. She suffered several injuries, including a fractured sternum, a collapsed lung, an air bubble in a lung and a severe concussion “among other injuries,” Atty. Michael Maillis, counsel for Courtney Anderson, says in the court action.
      Anderson, who was a teenager at the time of the accident, is now a sophomore at Youngstown State University, where she is a member of the Penguins cheer squad.
      “Anderson was jumping-off a platform onto what is supposed to be an inflated air mattress below her. This air mattress operates to absorb the force dropping from 15-ft. and disperses the force in a way where the jumper will not be injured.
      “Unfortunately, the employees of Extreme Air…never inflated the mattress, or took time to inspect the mattress, yet opened the gate to let (Anderson) jump, and the gave (her) encouragement with a ‘go-ahead’ to jump,” counsel said, adding his client fell on her back onto a concrete floor “with no cushioning whatsoever.”
      Maillis contends that Extreme Air had a statutory duty under Ohio Administrative Codes “to properly inspect the (air mattress) before allowing 9his client0 to participate, adding the code “specifically says that no person shall operate…an amusement ride or device that is an unsafe condition that could cause a hazard…”
      Counsel says his client suffered “serious, debilitating and permanent physical and emotional pain…and will continue to suffer…into the future and on a permanent basis…incurred medical and hospital expenses…lost income, and will suffer future loss of income and has incurred a [permanent loss of future earning capacity.”
      Maillis contends that a ‘waiver’ his client “allegedly signed “is contrary to public policy and void to the extent it seeks to avoid responsibility arising from violation of any express duty imposed by statute or regulation for the safety of patrons…”
      The suit seeks compensatory damages in excess of $25,000, and a declaration that any signed waiver is unenforceable.
  Boardman Local School Board Welcome Candace Rivera  
  January 18, 2024 Edition  
      DURING THE BOARDMAN Local School Board’s annual reorganizational meeting last week, Candace Rivera, pictured, was sworn-in as the newest member of the board. She replaces Jeff Barone, who did not seek re-election. The school board elected John Fryda as president, and Vickie Davis as vice-president.
  Fights Mar Day After Christmas Shopping At The Southern Park Mall  
  January 4, 2024 Edition  
     BY JOHN A. DARNELL JR.
      associate editor
      The day after Christmas, Boardman police responded to reports of fights at the Southern Park Mall during a 75-minute span, between 5:45 p.m. and 7:00 p.m.
      Four teenagers were eventually arrested by police, who said other combatants fled on foot.
      The string of fights began about 5:45 p.m. as three Boardman police officers and a Mahoning County Sheriff’s Department deputy were escorting a large group (50 persons including juveniles and adults) out of the mall.
      “As we escorted the subjects outside, we observed a large circle form around two juveniles (girls) who were fighting outside of the mall, near the Steel Valley Brew Works,” Ptl. Joe Lamping said, adding the girls were “grabbing each other’s hair and striking one another in the torso and upper body and face.”
      Despite being told by law enforcement to stop, the girls continued their fight, until they were pepper-sprayed by police.
      One girl walked away from police and sat on the ground, and another fled on foot until caught by police and placed in handcuffs.
      Caleyah Renee Jones, 14, of 2775 Hammaker Ave., Youngstown, Oh., claimed several individuals had approached her, saying they planned to fight her. Another person, whom police did not name, said that Jones struck a girl in the face.
      Jones was arrested and charged with assault, disorderly conduct, obstruction and resisting arrest, then released to the custody of her mother, Melissa Robinson.
      About the same time, BPD Ptl. Brian Moss said as authorities were trying to escort people out of the mall, an 18-year-old boy who was ordered to stay out of the mall, attempted to re-enter. When confronted, the boy hit Officer Moss in the left arm, and when advised he was under arrest, began to flee on foot. He ended his flight in the parking lot of the former Dillard’s, where he was arrested and placed into a police cruiser.
      Kadyn Shelton, 18, of 46 Shields Rd., was charged with assaulting a police officer, obstruction and resisting arrest and taken to the Mahoning County Jail.
      Then, near 6:30 p.m., police said there was another ‘large juvenile fight’ (25-30 people) in the parking lot of the mall, near Chili’s, “all of whom appeared to be taking fighting stances and beginning to engage in a fight,” Ptl. Mike Dado said.
      Four police officers attempted to get the juveniles to disperse, but according to Ptl. Angelo Pasquale “they disregarded us and began fighting.”
      As police were arresting one teen girl and taking her to a police cruiser, another fight began involving two more females began. In this confrontation, police used pepper spray in an effort to separate the combatants.
      Iya Hurdle, 14, of 22 Manchester Ave., Youngstown, Oh. and Laila Joi Paige, 15, of 757 Wilbur Ave., Youngstown, Oh., were charged with disorderly conduct. Both were released to the custody of their mothers.
  Local Veterinarian Pens Concerns About Mill Creek Park To Ohio Attorney General  
  January 4, 2024 Edition  
     The following was sent to Ohio Attorney General Dave Yost by local veterinarian Donald Allen:
     
      Dear Ohio Attorney General Yost:
      I am writing to request that you investigate an apparent case of misfeasance on the part of the executive director of Mill Creek MetroParks (MCMP), Aaron Young, here in Mahoning County. A “culling” (slaughter) of white-tailed deer in Mill Creek Park began Oct. 1 and will continue throughout this hunting season, to be repeated every year for a total of ten years. Professional hunters are being paid $50,000 to help in this effort.
      Thirty deer were herded onto Mill Creek Golf Course Oct. 11, 2023, and slaughtered using rifles with suppressors, night vision, and infrared scopes. This, after they clearly stated on the millcreekmetroparks.org website that, “NO hunting will take place in Mill Creek Park (North of 224) or Yellow Creek Park.” The golf course lies north of Rte. 224 and south of Shields Road. Information I just received stated that an additional golf course slaughter was to take place...targeting does with yearlings and pregnant does.
      Aaron Young has stated publicly that he wants to eliminate deer from the park system. He must be stopped, and an informal organization, “Help Save the Hill Creek Park Deer,” (Facebook), has been working diligently this year to halt the scheduled “culling.” Attorney Marc Dann’s office was engaged to file a suit seeking preliminary injunctive relief from MCMP’s deer slaughter plan until further investigation. See Court of Common Pleas, Mahoning County, OH, Case No. 2023 CV 01775. The hearing was to be before Judge Anthony Donofrio Sept. 21, 2023, but he referred the hearing to his magistrate, Nicole M. Alexander.
      There was expert testimony on behalf of the plaintiffs, including myself, but to no avail. It was as if our factual testimony held no value in the decision; the decision was made before we even spoke. Here are some of the details that brought about the considerable opposition to Aaron Young. The destruction of Mill Creek Park white-tailed deer began Oct. 1, 2023, and continues.
       1) The estimated population of white-tailed deer in Mill Creek MetroParks is erroneous and blatantly inaccurate.
        a) If there were, indeed, an average of 387 deer per square mile of park land, there would be large herds of deer moving through the yards of residents who live adjacent to the parks. They are not.
        b) If there were, indeed, an average of 387 deer per square mile of park land, they would truly decimate the forage in the park and move out to seek food on adjacent private property. They do not.
       2) This “count” of deer in MCMP was performed by “Above All Aerial and Specialty Photography Ohio,” using FLIR thermal imaging technology and fixed-wing aircraft on Jan. 21 and 26, 2022, (see millcreekmetroparks.org, “White-Tailed Deer in Mill Creek MetroParks”). This survey counted a low of 262 and a high of 674 deer for the 15 distinct areas of MCMP, giving an average of 387 deer per square mile. Simply a preposterous number, and unbelievable to those who live adjacent to the park and who have frequented the park for over 30 years (my back yard overlooks Lake Newport).
        a) Ohio Department of Natural Resources estimates the total deer population for the state of Ohio at between 650,000 and 750,000 deer. Ohio comprises 40,860.69 square miles (census.gov). Using the high number of 750,000 divided by 40,860 equals 18-19 deer per square mile.
        b) A 2008 estimate of white-tailed deer densities in the eastern USA (https://data.nal.usda.gov/dataset/white-tailed-deer-density-estimates-across-eastern-united-states-2008) shows our county with less than 15 deer per square mile.
       3) Thousands of Mahoning County residents have rejected the director’s claims of overpopulation and “browse lines,” and will continue to oppose the actions of Mr. Young until he can be replaced. “The Vindicator, www.vindy.com, published a lead story saying, “Rep: Make Mill Creek board more accountable.” This is State Rep. Lauren McNally’s effort to counter the park’s decisions, which are counter to the public’s wishes.
       4) It is apparent that the current selection board ignored any due diligence in its choice of Aaron Young. In 2014, while employed at The Geauga Park District, Young’s former co-workers determined through a Leadership Team Assessment that, “Aaron has developed the negative behavior of verbally tackling his teammates and using fowl language, which must be addressed. Lack of and/or poor decision making will be an issue for him. Under stress Aaron’s style can become impatient and autocratic, and when situations are inconsistent with the individual’s goals or opinions they may not support team efforts and can appear to be arrogant.” Young was hired by Mill Creek Park in January 2015. https://www.millcreekmetroparks.org/aaron-young-succeed-dennis-miller-executive-director-mill-creek-metroparks/
       5) The Facebook page, “Help Save the Mill Creek Park Deer” has over 3,400 members. They will undoubtedly vote, “NO,” for all further MCP levies until there is a change in administration.
       6) During public meetings of the MCMP board, Mr. Young acts as his own secretary, taking laptop notes of what is being said. This is unacceptable, in that he is his own conflict of interest, and formal “notes” are not necessarily accurate.
       7) During my testimony at the hearing, with a representative of the Ohio Department of Natural Resources (ODNR) present, I stated that, truly, there was no need for the park to pay for professional USDA sharpshooters to kill off the deer. Ohio has “bag limits” for deer hunting during the regularly scheduled hunting seasons. Each county has a limit, and most, including Mahoning County, are three deer. Total for each hunter for the season is six deer, and only one can have horns (bucks). That means a hunter can take three deer in Mahoning, and go to another county to shoot three more to reach his/her limit. Some Ohio counties have a limit of two deer, some have a limit of four. It would have been much simpler, and at no cost to the park, for ODNR to simply increase the bag limit for Mahoning and possibly adjoining counties to six, allowing hunters to fulfill their limits in this county alone. This logical solution was ignored.
       8) Since this hunt began, the MCP deer have dispersed, some being hit on local highways, and have become scarce. They are free to roam anywhere in Ohio; nothing keeps them in MCP other than the friendliness of local residents. They will be greatly missed.
       9) Additionally, the director has allocated thousands of tax dollars to seek eminent domain over private property to extend a bike trail, to no avail thus far. “Since 2020, Mill Creek MetroParks has paid the Youngstown law firm Roth Blair over $336,932 to handle the legalities of extending the MetroParks’ Bikeway.” https://www.wkbn.com/news/local-news/im-not-a-fan-metroparks-executive-director-discusses-eminent-domain/
       10) Per an e-mail I received Nov. 21, 2023, “Young has a employee and citizen blacklist which forbids people on the list are either fired or not aloud to volunteer for the park . Jamie Yohman is in charge of it. Nobody has access to it. The volunteers who work at the Davis center have been moved out of the building. They hold their meetings at Austintown Park. A woman named Kathy is in charge and she is not aloud to work inside the center. All money they raise now must be turned in to the general fund instead of using that money on their needs.”
      Please help us.
      Sincerely,
      Donald K. Allen, MS, DVM
      Lt. Col., USAF/USAFR (Ret.)
      Former military public health officer
      dba:
      Dr. Donald K. Allen, Veterinarian
     
      PICTURE: photo/John A. Darnell jr.
       A “culling” (slaughter) of white-tailed deer in Mill Creek Park began Oct. 1 and will continue throughout this hunting season, to be repeated every year for a total of ten years. Mother Nature asks, “Why?”
     
     
  School Board Adds Speech Pathologist  
  Approves Variety Of Revisions To Policies, Including Intra-District Open Enrollment:   December 28, 2023 Edition  
     Meeting on Dec. 18, the Boardman Local School Board acted upon a variety of personnel items; and also approved a second reading of revised board policies.
      Renee Seltzer was granted a one-year limited contract as a district speech pathologist.effective January 12, 2024 at an annual salary of $50,433. She received her bachelor’s degree from Geneva College and her master’s degree from Duquesne University. This is a new position.
      Essential functions of the new speech pathologist are:
       •Serve as consultant to and in collaboration with school personnel in the development and provision of a program for speech, language, and/or general communication improvement.
       •Provide appropriate speech and language therapy to meet student needs.
       •Assist school personnel in the identification and referral of children with suspected speech, language, voice, fluency, and hearing disabilities.
       •Function as a member of the evaluation team to provide a multi-factored evaluation to facilitate the assessment and diagnosis of speech, language, and hearing disabilities.
       •Participate in the decision to deliver speech and language services to a child and assists in development of the Individualized Education Program.
       •Assist building administrators in scheduling and conducting annual reviews and in developing the Individualized Educational Program for students with communication disabilities.
       •May act as a consultant to local personnel in observing procedural safeguards for disabled children.
       •Assist in the referral of children for medical or other professional attention as appropriate for the rehabilitation of speech, language, and hearing disabilities and maintains a directory of such resources.
       •Collaborate with school personnel to develop appropriate classroom activities to reinforce services being provided to children by the speech-language pathologist.
       •Provide information, guidance and counseling to parents, children and other school personnel on matters concerning speech, language, voice, fluency, and hearing disabilities.
       •Maintain appropriate procedural safeguards and records for all students receiving speech and language services.
       •Provide screening services to identify suspected speech, language, voice, fluency, and hearing disabilities as appropriate for the district needs.
       •Provide in-service and serve as a consultant to school personnel, parents, and community on matters concerning speech, language, voice, fluency, and hearing disabilities.
       •Provide information about and secures necessary information concerning the acquisition of and implementation of devices for augmentative and/or alternative forms of communication for those students in need.
       •Attend staff in-service opportunities for professional growth and development.
       •Collaborate and consult with private speech pathologists, private agencies, medical professionals, audiologists as needed in the management of and planning of speech therapy services.
       •Assist in the selection, purchase, and upkeep of materials and equipment necessary for these services.
      Classified staff appointments approved by the school board were the following:
       •Patricia Ambrosini was granted an additional position as a full-contract bus driver, effective December 1, 2023, replacing Kristine Manis.
       •Katherine McFall was granted a one-year limited contract as a cleaner at Boardman High replacing Cyndi Babnic.
       •Samuel Tellish was granted a one-year limited contract as a half-contract bus aide replacing Cindy Hunt.
       •Curtis Wagner was granted a one-year limited contract as a full-contract bus driver effective December 18, 2023, replacing Tom Davis.
      Classified staff resignations were accepted from Karen Freaney, Center Intermediate School noontime monitor; Ron Leone Sr., bus school cleaning (retirement).
      Chris DeFrank was granted an unpaid leave of absence per the OAPSE contract, from September 28, 2023, through March 1, 2024.
      Ashley Lines was approved as an hourly staff member at $22/hour, not to exceed 29.5 hours per week, and not to exceed 1,110 hours per year to be paid out of Title 1 Funds.
      Cheire Covan was approved as a tutor not to exceed 29.5 hours per week effective November 24, 2023.
      Among several revisions to school board policies that went to a second reading was one called “Intra-District Open Enrollment.”
      That policy currently reads as follows:
      The Board of Education shall permit any eligible, elementary or middle school student in the District to apply for enrollment in any District program or school, provided the student’s application meets the requirements of the State and the conditions established in District guidelines.
      The following definitions shall apply:
       •Home School: The school to which the student has been assigned prior to any request for transfer.
       •Open Enrollment: State-mandated options, policies, and regulations concerning the Board’s authority to adopt resolutions regarding intra-district and inter-district enrollment policies and guidelines. Intra-district open enrollment permits the admission of students to any appropriate school or program in the District.
       •Home-School Student: A District student who resides in the home-school attendance area.
       •Nonhome-School Student: A District student who enrolls (seeks to enroll) in a program or school in another attendance area within the District.
       •Program: Any one of the specific course offerings of this District.
       •Program Size: The restrictions on a number of students in a program due to circumstances unique to that specific program, a collectively-bargained, negotiated agreement, or financial or operating conditions of the District.
       •Racial Balance: “Racial” refers to minorities classified as African-American, Asian-American, Hispanic-American, or Native-American students. “Balance” refers to the percentage of “racial” students in a District program, classroom, or school.
       •Racially Isolated Building: A racially isolated building refers to a School District building in which the racial composition of the students varies significantly from the overall racial composition of the School District.
       •Maintaining Appropriate Racial Balance: Given our diverse society and the importance of preparing students for education, work, and citizenship, the Board is committed to providing students with equal educational opportunities, promoting educational diversity in the District, and providing students with the educational benefits of a diverse student body. To that end, the Board/Administration will give individual consideration to each applicant seeking enrollment under this policy, so that all factors that may contribute to student body diversity are meaningfully considered in admissions decisions. It is the intent of the Board to maintain an appropriate racial balance as required by law.
      The Superintendent shall consult with legal counsel to determine the appropriate steps that should be taken, including, but not limited to, any necessary policy revisions and other actions necessary to comply with State and Federal law (i.e., to appropriately apply the requirements of maintaining appropriate racial balance to the racially isolated building(s) in the District). The Superintendent shall then make the appropriate recommendations to the Board.
      The Superintendent shall prepare guidelines for the implementation of this policy in ways that comply with relevant State laws and guidelines and establish procedures that provide for the following:
       •Nondiscrimination on the basis of grade level, including preschool disabled; academic ability; English language proficiency; or any level of artistic, athletic, or extra-curricular skills. A student’s application cannot be denied because of disciplinary action in his/her home school, except for a suspension or expulsion for ten (10) days or more that occurs in the current semester or the semester immediately preceding the application.
       •Application procedures including the criteria by which applications from non home-school students shall be reviewed and prioritized. Home-school students shall be given priority over nonhome-school students. Further, a student shall submit an application only if s/he wishes to attend an alternate school in the District.
       •Maintenance of appropriate racial balance in District schools, classrooms, and programs.
       •Communications with applicants and their parents concerning this policy and the District’s guidelines, including the timelines for application and notification of acceptance or rejection.
       •Athletic eligibility shall comply with State regulations and the provisions set forth by the Ohio High School Athletic Association.
       •Any transportation provided by the District for a nonhome-school student takes place within established bus routes and bus stops within the District.
       •Set District capacity limits by grade level, school building and educational program.
      ​ The Superintendent shall annually review the level of diversity existing within the District’s programs, grades and/or schools to assess whether the application of this policy has resulted in an adverse effect on racial balance. As a part of his/her review, the Superintendent will be responsible for determining whether there is a legal basis for the Board to use the “maintenance of appropriate racial balance” language of R.C. 3313.97(C).
      Should this review indicate that the racial balance in one (1) or more of the District’s programs, grades and/or schools has been adversely affected, the Superintendent shall consult with legal counsel to determine what, if any, appropriate steps should be taken, including, but not limited to, policy revisions or other actions necessary to comply with State and Federal law.driver, (retirement); and Carolyn Sewruk, high
  Jeff Barone Leaves Local School Board  
  December 28, 2023 Edition  
     Boardman Local School Board member Jeff Barone ended his 8 years of service to Boardman Schools, students, their families, and staff at the board’s final meeting of 2023 on December 19. Board President John Landers noted “I’ve always been impressed with his intelligence, his work ethic and his dedication to the community. I’ve had the opportunity to work with Jeff on the school board for eight years, and I think he’s a staunch protector of the community and our taxpayers.” Barone was first elected to the school board in 2015.. He is a 1983 Boardman graduate and his children are also BHS graduates. “From the day I first earned the ‘B’ on my letterman’s jacket in Glenwood Middle School, I’ve been proud to be a Spartan! I’m still proud. It is because everybody works so hard here, and we respect each other, that’s why we have what we have here,” Barone said. Candace Rivera was elected to join the board last November’s general elections and will be sworn-in at its organizational meeting on January 10, 2024.
  Hammerton Notches 100th Win  
  December 21, 2023 Edition  
     BOARDMAN HIGH SCHOOL’S HEAD GIRLS CAGE COACH, Jeff Hammerton, notched his 100th win as head coach of the program last Saturday when his Lady Spartans bested Marlington, 54-22. Pictured after the game are his son, Gabe; Coach Hammerton, wife, Gina; and daughter, Mia. Hammerton has been a cage coach with the Boardman Local Schools for 22 years, both as an assistant and head coach. He is in his ninth season leading the Lady Spartans varsity team and has an overall mark of 100-98.
  BELIEVE IN MIRACLES  
  December 21, 2023 Edition  
     BY SHELDON DeVRIES
      “It’s the most wonderful time of the year,” Sang Andy Williams. This, along with many other classic Christmas songs, flood our radios as we drive to and from work, the grocery store, or even the radio that plays quietly in the background in our homes. We hear the language of joy, happiness, peace, wonder, and even holiness.
      But what makes it so wonderful? It is certainly not the traffic as were trying to do our Christmas shopping. It’s not wonderful when you’re shoveling snow out of your driveway just to get to work. It’s not wonderful that now the daylight savings has ended and we feel like it’s midnight at 6 PM. So, what makes it so wonderful?
      Something that I’ve learned over years of watching movies, is that we love happy endings. We want things to be resolved, and for love to emerge, or the hero to be victorious. Whatever the outcome, we like it to be stitched up and finished. And while we enjoy movies such as Titanic, we are not always happy with the chosen outcome, even though these traumatic endings stick with us. I remember watching the movie, “Primal Fear,” years ago, starring Richard Gere, and Edward Norton, and the huge twist that came at the end that made people feel unsettled. I think that represents the very opposite of what we prefer. We want things to end on a high, to be happy, to feel inspired. The Christmas season becomes a catalyst for things to move upward, and that is why we like it.
      Perhaps the sense of wonder creeps in and slowly sways us toward these forgotten values. Here are some positives about this time of year: We are coming to the end of our work year, the seasons are changing, hopefully you got a bonus at work, and we get a change of pace. As a result, we slow down, we have some days off. This is good. With the onset of Thanksgiving, we tried to have a better disposition towards others, moving into the Christmas season, although not everybody does. We all have horror stories of shoppers gone mad, and we tried to maintain our sanity while bringing blessing and sharing peace. Sometimes the wonder of Christmas is hidden between all the chaos that we also seem to experience. And we have to look intently for it. Maybe wonder is not the primary driver of Christmas? Maybe it is something else. But what?
      Christmas is a time of year where our language changes some. It’s in our decorations that are plastered all over our homes. The word: “blessed,” or “believe,” or “hope” or “joy.” Just to name a few. These words represent the best parts of the human experience, and when we are at our best, this is what exudes from our lives. But does it have to be Christmas for it to show itself? What would the world look like if these were not just seasonal beliefs, but deeply ingrained values? And while we say we believe in these values, sometimes they are in the background of our lives more than they should be.
      Christmas is a wonderful time of year. Some may even say magical. When we drive down the streets and we see houses lit in red, green and white, it is hard not to feel the spirit of Christmas. When you go into any store with clerks wearing Santa hats, and reindeer antlers, it is hard not to smile. When every coffee drink you order is filled with spices that would be detested in the summer, now they are celebrated and even enjoyed. We know Christmas is near. During this time of year, we also see churches take on a different face. Some are lit, other’s not. Some have Nativity scenes, some talk about Advent - the anticipation of Christ coming into the world. We see wise man and shepherds, stars and camels, and they all strangely bring a sense of comfort, familiarity and peace. But are joy and peace the primary drivers of Christmas? Maybe it is something else. But what?
      When you read the story of Jesus making his way into the world, we see many similarities with what is happening in our season. We see anticipation from Mary and Joseph, wonder from the wise men, joy from the shepherds, even peace from the animals. All the ingredients are there. But the primary driver of Christmas is none of these things – it is all of them. When all these individual values unite, the true value of Christmas emerges… It’s the Miracle.
      Sometimes we think that miracles are only supernatural events, or moments of unexplained actions. Which they are. Those are the big ones. But miracles are present all around us, often in very understated or passive ways. We don’t always see them, but we experience them all the time. The unexplained that is beyond our comprehension. When things work out that shouldn’t, or when we experience generosity we were not expecting. Often, people are the vessels through which miracles happen. That is true of Jesus too, he was a man, fully empowered by God, but still a person nonetheless. God has chosen miracles to remind us that he is never far, but instead of bolts of lightning, he chooses the smiling face of a stranger, or the kindness of a rival, or even the innocence of a child.
      I notice that during the Christmas season there are always many more commercials on TV about giving to a cause. St. Jude is one that I see often. None of us love these ads, but there is a reality behind them that we perhaps prefer not to see. Hurting and dying kids – no one enjoys seeing that. And yet, many of them are smiling, grateful, appreciative and joyful. Now that’s a miracle. In the face of adversity, they stand tall. And we pick up the phone and pledge to help, that’s a miracle also. Now please don’t misunderstand me, I am not campaigning for St. Jude, although I think it a good cause, I am simply saying that we have the opportunity to be a part of the miracle, rather than just spectators of it. Sometimes we don’t see these moments because we have closed ourselves off from them, and thus denied them happening in and through us.
      I believe that the reason why Christmas is so special and wonderful and all those other words, is because it is a time that we choose to find the miraculous. As a pastor, I seek the miraculous and I want people to find God. I want to see where God is working and desire to be a part of his plan. This is why Easter and Christmas are the highest attended Sundays… people are still looking. They are not looking for religion - they are looking for God. They are looking for miracles.
      When we stop long enough to see, and are quiet long enough to hear, and willing to use our hands and means to influence the world, the miraculous will happen. We will become the miracle for another. Do you believe in miracles? Of course you do. Do you have the courage to be the miracle for something else? I believe you will. Christmas is not just a day or a season or an event. Christmas is when God comes near. We are reminded that he came to earth and lived among us, as one of us. And when we open our lives to him, we become a part of something much bigger. We become part of the Christmas story. We become the miracle.
      Merry Christmas.
     
      Sheldon DeVries is currently executive pastor
      of staff operations at Greenford Christian Church and future Boardman Campus Minister at Greenford’s new campus location at 7782 Glenwood Ave. that will open early in 2024.
     
  Two Die In Suspected Drug-Related Deaths  
  December 7, 2023 Edition  
      Boardman police are investigating the deaths of a woman and a man in suspected drug related deaths in late November.
      Dead are Melissa Manley, 41; and Charles Butler, 49.
      On Sun., Nov. 26 at 12:23 a.m. police were sent to 833 Trailwood Dr. on a call of a female who was not breathing and was unresponsive in a bedroom of the home.
      A man identified as Daniel Owens met police at the front door and said a female whom he identified as Melissa Manley was in a bedroom of the home, showing no signs of life. Sgt. Glenn Patton and Ptl. Ryan Jones located Manley, 41, and emergency EMS crews began life-saving measures to no avail.
      Owens told police that Manley, who had a long history of drug abuse, was his father’s on-again and off-again girlfriend and said Manley recently had open heart and lung surgery, afterwhich she was staying at the Trailwood Dr. home.
      Ptl. Tom Zorzi found a burned spoon, a syringe and a cigarette pack that contained a bundle with a white substance next to the bed where Manley was found. At 1:09 a.m., Manley was pronounced dead.
      On Wed., Nov. 29, police went to the Town and Country Motel, 5235 Market St, at 9:41 a.m., A woman identified Paulette Orr, 54, of 69 East Lucius, Youngstown, Oh., told police she had rented a room “for the past few days” and on Nov. 28, she and Charles Butler, 49, of 443 Falls Ave., Youngstown, Oh., arrived at the motel around 8:30 a.m.
      Orr told Ptl. Mike Salser that Butler “started snorting some white powder” and by 2:00 p.m. he became unsteady on his feet. Orr said Butler then laid on the floor and went to sleep, while she sat on a bed and “continued to drink beer and play video games on her phone” until she passed-out at 2:00 a.m.
      Orr said when she awakened, she found Butler dead and called 9-1-1.
      Det. Richard Kridler said that Butler was found nude and face down on the floor, and on a nearby table was a cellophane baggie containing an unknown white powder, another baggie containing suspected marihuana, and a bottle that contained an unknown thick, red liquid. A label on the bottle said it contained 120 mg of methadone liquid.
  Road Projects Include Roundabout At Glenwood Ave. And Wildwood Dr.  
  December 7, 2023 Edition  
     Road improvements in Boardman, planned in the future, include a roundabout at the intersection of Glenwood Ave. and Wildwood Dr.; and work at two intersections---Market St., at Shields Rd. and along Rt. 224, from Market St. to I-680.
      $1.4 million in state funds has been allocated for the roundabout, scheduled for construction in 2027.
      “Mahoning County has put in a roundabout on Mathews Rd. It really has slowed down the accidents there and the traffic flow has really improved. So, this would be a second roundabout. They work well and they really do impact safety,” said Jason Loree, Boardman Township administrator.
      The Ohio Department of Transportation (ODOT) claims the intersection of Market St. and Shields Rd. is dangerous and says during a five-year period, there was 76 traffic accidents there, with 32 per cent resulting in personal injury.
      Last year the state closed a portion of the intersection, at Brookwood Rd. and ODOT says there was not a significant increase in traffic through nearby residential areas.
      Work at the intersection is not expected to take place until at least 2025.
      In calling for a redesign of traffic patters along Rt. 224, ODOT says the intersection of Market St. as well as South Ave. can be improved.
      A study of a five-year period of Rt. 224 (at Tiffany Blvd.) showed there were 1534 traffic accidents at that intersection. Work along Rt. 224 is expected to be completed in 2024.
  Coach Roy Nard Jr., 75  
  December 7, 2023 Edition  
     By Diane Mastro Nard
      On Nov. 23, 2023, in the early evening hours of a Thanksgiving holiday, Coach Roy F. Nard Jr., 75, brother, teacher, friend and loving husband, heard the final buzzer sound, saw the lights dim, the equipment collected and the crowd disperse. Of course, the score mattered! GOD won the big one! And for Coach Roy F. Nard Jr., VICTORY was complete. My husband lived to be called ‘Coach,’ and died still trying to call the plays. That effort was one of the only bright moments of Alzheimer’s disease, rarely returning to an ambitious past.
      Roy was born on Oct. 17, 1948, in Grove City, Pa., to the former Virginia Smith and Roy F. Nard Sr. Perhaps this birthright fostered a DNA that was somehow related to a town and teams 65 miles south — the Pittsburgh Steelers and Pittsburgh Pirates.
      Because I worked and lived with Coach, I can describe this patronage as obnoxious, as he debated and vocalized all the evidence that made his teams credible. He challenged and ‘tormented’ both faculty and students at Cardinal Mooney on a weekly basis. His gym and health classes readily took the challenge and created satirical cartoons to alleviate the pain of defeat and bring home the laughter---all done in the name of love.
      Roy attended St. Columba Grade School, where his commitment to his Catholic faith inspired him to become an altar boy. He played youth baseball for the Royal Oaks and for the Elks, and sported the cleanest uniform and groomed hair, even under the cap! By 1966, Roy graduated from Ursuline High School to pursue a Bachelor of Science degree in education from Youngstown State University, while simultaneously employed by Republic Steel, Mahoning Sanitation Department and the Youngstown Vindicator.
      Upon graduation from YSU in 1971, Mr. Nard’s career in education began at St. Christine School, where he taught physical education for grades K to 8 and coached Parochial League Basketball for three years, ending with a 34-9 record. This experience led Coach to bigger dreams and aspirations, as he was readily seeking the opportunity to prove himself on paper and the court. The volumes of geometrical Xs and Os designed for sport and physical education remain unparalleled. They cluttered our files, but not his personal successes.
      After a short stint at his alma mater as assistant freshman basketball coach, he signed on at Cardinal Mooney High School as the head freshman football coach, accruing three league titles and a record of 34-3-4. Coach Nard led those teams to Steel Valley Conference Championships in 1974 and 1976 and runners-up in 1975, 1977, 1978 and 1979. He remained a vital part of the football program for six years under the dynamic duo of Don Bucci and Ron Stoops.
      Additionally, his attempts as a tennis coach for three years awarded him Coach of the Year in 1977 to 1978 with a record of 35-9.
      Somewhere between his football and basketball achievements, ‘Coach’ married me, his wife and polar opposite, Diane Mastro Nard. We had thousands of kids walking the halls of Cardinal Mooney and were the richest couple in the world. It lasted for 44 years because he let me win! Our legacy remains the greatest in the world!
      As the years went on, Roy became the chairman of the Health and Physical Education Department, director of summer camps and courses, assistant athletic director and ticket manager. Most of these roles were simultaneously carried out in unison with his greatest coaching achievements in both football and basketball.
      Boys basketball was his next venture. After assisting Bob Santor for a decade, Roy took the head boys varsity coach position, culminating in a 110-76 record. His teams won Steel Valley Conference titles in 1985 and 1986, six sectional championships, three district titles (1983-1984, 1986-1987), and in 1988-1989 led the Cards to the first and only undefeated team in school history (20-0), best record (23-1), and a No. 2 ranking in the state. He was selected Coach of The Year three times by the Mahoning Valley Coaches Association. It was also an honor to coach in three different all-star games and two Hoyle Tournaments.
     
      Then the famous words resounded: “I’m done. I will never coach girls!” Wrong. Principal Robert Campbell pleaded, and Roy caved. Six years of coaching girls’ basketball restored his belief that girls are actually teachable! Right! Mooney Cardinals earned the right to boast about four sectional championships, two district championships and two regional semifinal appearances. Their best record in a season was 19-3. Once again, Coach Nard was selected Coach of the Year three times by the Mahoning Valley Coaches Association, and coached in three all-star games. It was the best time of his life, except for the occasional mood swings---Mine!
      Cardinal Mooney inducted Coach Roy F. Nard Jr. into the prestigious Athletic Hall of Fame in 2007. And that is the essence of the kind, humble gentleman.
      Roy leaves his wife and greatest fan, Diane Mastro Nard; his sister, Dee Dee (Ray) Sepesy of North Carolina; brother Kenneth (Susie) Nard Sr. of Florida; nephews and nieces who affectionately called him ‘Uncle Rog,’ Raymond (Carrie) Sepesy, Lori Raymond, Stacy (Matthew) Dennig, Christopher Sepesy, and Kenneth (Chantal) Nard Jr.: great-nephew, Levi Raymond who coined him ‘Uncle Babba’ and great-niece, Savannah Dennig; brother-in-law, Joseph Mastro and Uncle Guy Damore. Families who claimed him as their own are the Damores, Doinoffs, Gorczycas, Obeys, Soviks, Colemans and Sheehans.
      Memorial tributes can be made to the Cardinal Mooney Basketball Program; the Hospice House, 9803 Sharrott Rd., Poland, Oh, 44514; or Antonine Sisters Adult Daycare, 2675 Lipkey Rd., North Jackson, Oh., 44451.
      Thank you Dr. Tom Traikoff, Dr. Frank Beck, Dr. Michael Scavina, Dr. Joseph Barak, and Dr. Maureen Mathews (all our former students) for the years, the hours and minutes you devoted to our family. In addition, Roy’s family would like to thank the Hospice House of Youngstown, Diane and Ed Reese and the Briarfield Manor of Austintown.
  5-Year Forecast Projects Wages, Fringe Benefits Paid To Boardman School District Employees Will Increase $6.7 Million By Fiscal Year 2028  
  School Board Approves 3-Year Contract For Non-Classified Staff:   November 30, 2023 Edition  
     BY JOHN A. DARNELL JR.
      associate editor
      Meeting last week, the Boardman Board of Education approved a three-year contract with members of it classified union workers, and also received a five-year financial forecast prepared by School District Treasurer Arthur Ginnetti.
      The settlement with classified staffers who are members of the Ohio Association of Public School Employees (OAPSE) calls for a 3 per cent wage hike for the current school year, as well as 2024-25 and 2025-26.
      In addition, according to the agreement, a one-time cost of living adjustment, between $500 and $800, will be paid to members of the OAPSE union. Employees who work seven or more hours a day will receive $800, and employees working less than five hours a day will get $300.
      The adjustment was a source of contention during bargaining sessions, as OAPSE union members wanted the same amount paid to members of the system’s teaching union, that was $1500 per teacher.
      In the system’s five year forecast, Treasurer Ginnetti says that “negotiations with bargaining unit members was completed in the spring of 2023 (for members of the Boardman Education Association teachers’ union) and the fall of 2023 (OAPSE).”
      The five year forecast projects wages paid by the Boardman Local School System to increase from $27.692 million in Fiscal Year 2024 to $31.623 million in Fiscal Year 2028; while fringe benefits will increase from $11.99 million to $14.807 million during the same period.
      Student Wellness/Success Funds
      The local school board also received a report on its $350,000 Student Wellness and Success Fund, that notes behavior coaches have been placed in the system’s three elementary schools, and two local agencies also have roles in the program---Alta Behavioral Health and HWS Best Health.
      Alta provides services in the elementary schools, as well as Center Intermediate and Boardman High School.
      “Alta counselors supports building counselors and staff in assessing individual students needs for counseling interventions beyond those provided by schools” the Wellness and Success report says, adding “Alta can assist with anger management, social skills, self control, problem-solving, behavior interventions and group therapy.”
      The HWS Best Health “is available to support students and adults needing additional help with behavior and emotions at home or school.
      HWS can assist with school refusal, defiant behavior, acting out, depression, anxiety, trauma and family conflict,” the Wellness and Success report says.
      Other Matters
      The school board accepted resignations from the following:
       •Susan Shook, district elementary art teacher, effective May 31, 2024;
       •Cyndi Babnic, high school cleaning, effective November 10, 2023;
       •Aidan Cervello, West Boulevard Elementary School custodian, effective November 5, 2023;
       •Rachelle Fleet, West Boulevard Elementary School noontime monitor, effective November 20, 2023; and
       •Carol Pierc, Robinwood Lane Elementary School noontime monitor, effective November 7, 2023.
      Daniel Bulatko was granted a one-year limited contract as first assistant custodian at Boardman High School effective November 13. He replaces Brian Huddleston.
      Jaime Condori was granted a one-year limited contract as a bus driver for the 2023-2024 school year effective November 3 He replaces Cheryl Jadallah.
      Joseph Land was granted a one-year limited contract as a custodian at West Boulevard Elementary School. He replaces Aidan Cervello.
      Elaine Majetich was granted a one-year limited contract as a floating health aide for the 2023-2024 school year. This is a new position.
      Heather Shurell was granted a position as noontime monitor at Center Intermediate School. She replaces Renee Rubesich.
      Francis Vivo was approved as noontime monitor at West Boulevard Elementary School. She replaces Dennis Thayer.
      Jacob Lape was approved as an assistant wrestling coach at Glenwood Junior High School, and Melissa Thomas was approved as an assistant girls soccer coach at Boardman High School. Stephen Olesky was approved as a wheelchair basketball coach.
  Subaru Share The Love Event  
  November 23, 2023 Edition  
     Boardman Subaru has announced Akron Children’s Hospital/Mahoning Valley and Second Harvest Food Bank of the Mahoning Valley as their hometown charities for the 2023 Subaru Share the Love Event.
      “Boardman Subaru is proud to partner with Akron Children’s Hospital and Second Harvest Food Bank because of their commitment to directly improving the lives of people in need in the Mahoning Valley,” said Ron Fellman, head of the dealership.
      Until January 2, 2024, anyone who buys or leases a new Subaru vehicle can choose Akron Children’s Hospital Mahoning Valley, Second Harvest Food Bank of Mahoning Valley, or one of the four national charities partnering with Subaru of America, Inc. to receive a $250 donation per vehicle. The dealership will also donate an additional $75 to the Hometown Charities for each sold or leased vehicle.
      Additionally, for every Subaru vehicle routine service visit during the Share the Love Event, Boardman Subaru will donate $5 to the two hometown charities.
      Subaru and its retailers support the charities that touch the lives of their community and causes near and dear to them throughout the year, but especially during the Subaru Share the Love
      Event. This year, the event will include the following four national charities, in addition to Akron Children’s and Second Harvest--American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (ASPCA), Make-A-Wish, Meals on Wheels America and the National Park Foundation
      For more information visit boardmansubaru.com and www.subaru.com/share.
     
  Boardman Police Department Rallies To Help Officers Stricken With Cancer  
  November 9, 2023 Edition  
     An ongoing fundraiser is looking to help two officers diagnosed with cancer. Boardman police Lt. John Allsopp, at left, has been on the force for almost 25 years, is currently battling lung cancer. Lt. Rick Balog, at right, has pancreatic cancer. He’s been on the force for 30 years. There are two ways to help---The Boardman Fraternal Order of Police, Lodge #43 is once again participating in ‘No Shave November’ and this year, all money raised will go to these two officers. You can help by donating to the ‘No Shave November.’ Make checks payable to the Boardman FOP Lodge #43 and mail to the Boardman Police Department, 8299 Market St., Boardman, Ohio, 44512; All proceeds from the sales will go directly to them. Boardman police Chief Todd Werth says something like this “just tears at your heart. To see what they’ve done over these years, in significant cases and significant things that they’ve responded to … I think it is the community’s turn and our department’s turn to kind of reach out and help them and help their families navigate this difficult time.”
  Judge Durkin Rules Tract Of Land At Hickory Hill Dr. And Western Reserve Rd. In Violation Of Township Zoning Codes  
  November 2, 2023 Edition  
     BY JOHN A. DARNELL JR.
      associate editor
      A more than two-acre tract of land at the entrance of The Reserve, at Hickory Hill Dr. and Western Reserve Rd., is in violation of maintenance codes required by Boardman Township Zoning Resolution, Mahoning County Judge John A. Durkin has ruled.
      The property is owned by Donna Zdrilich, 81, of 8599 Youngstown-Poland Rd.
      According to a Judgement Entry on the matter, issues with the property were brought into question on Apr. 8, 2022, when then Boardman Zoning Inspector Krista Beniston filed a complaint charging the Zdrilich “has been and is continuing to violate” the township’s zooming resolution.
      Beniston said the Zdrilich “failed to stabilize, grade, seed, cut wood and cut trees debris,” and also “failed to stabilize, grade, seed and/or mulch the disturbed and cleared areas;” and failed to prepare and submit a Storm Water Pollution Prevention Plan.”
      According to Beniston’s complaint, there have been multiple attempts to get Zdrilich to bring the property into compliance since March, 2021, “but Zdrilich has failed to come into compliance with the zoning resolution.”
      Zdrilich answered the claims saying that all work on the property required by the zoning resolution “has been completed” and she was not in violation of local zoning codes. She said the property (now largely overgrown with weeds) “has been stabilized, graded and seeded,” and she had no obligation to submit a Storm Water Pollution Prevention Plan.
      In May, 2023, current Boardman Township Zoning Inspector T.J. Keiran conducted an inspection of the property to took photographs depicting tree stumps, cut wood sand cut tree debris covering the property; and said there was no evidence that Zdrilich submitted a Storm Water Pollution Prevention Plan.
      According to the Judgement Entry, Boardman Township zoning officials have viewed the property several times, most recently on Aug. 9, 2023.
      “The property needed to be cleared of tree stumps and graded, seeded and/or mulched within 30 days.
      “Zdrilich has failed to do so as cut wood and cut tree debris remain on the property. Further, there is no evidence that the property has been stabilized, graded and seeded.
      “There is no evidence of new grass or mulch, the only growth is the natural progression of weeds,” the Judgement Entry notes.
      Judge Durkin said “Reasonable minds can come to but one conclusion…that the Zdrilich’s property is being used and maintained in a way that violates the Boardman Township Zoning Resolution.” In declaring the property in violation of the zoning resolution, Zdrilich was ordered to bring the land in compliance with Boardman Township regulations.
     
  Fund For Educational Excellence Welcomes Two New Board Members  
  November 2, 2023 Edition  
Heather Belgin - Annissa Kalbasky
     The Boardman Schools Fund for Educational Excellence (BSFEE) welcomes two new members to its Board of Directors, Heather Belgin and Anissa Kalbasky. Belgin is a parent of two sons currently in the district, and is a member of the Boardman Track and Cross Country Boosters, serving as secretary for the past three years. She is the Director of Alumni Engagement at Youngstown State University. Kalbasky is a past PTA president with a son and a daughter in the district. She is a marketing specialist and graphic designer with JPAR Real Estate. The Boardman Schools Fund for Educational Excellence is a non-profit organization that awards teachers grant monies for classroom projects that go beyond the scope of those funded by the school district’s educational budget. Thanks to the generous support of the Boardman community, including the Boardman Education Association, the fund has awarded more than $100,000 in grants since the group’s inception in 2009. Belgin and Kalbasky join Kate Spires, Marcy Hughes, Megan Turillo, Lynda Beichner, Vickie Davis, Michael Walston, Tom Varley, Carl Greenaway Jr., Atty. Matthew Gambrel and Supt. Tim Saxton on the BSFEE Board.
  Trustees Hire Firm For Billing On EMS Calls Provided By Fire Department Ambulance Services  
  October 26, 2023 Edition  
     BY JOHN A. DARNELL JR.
      associate editor
      Meeting on Monday night, Boardman Township’s Board of Trustees voted in favor of the recommendation by Fire Chief Mark Pitzer to hire a private company for the purpose EMS billing services.
      At their Sept. 25 meeting, based on a recommendation from Chief Pitzer, Trustees approved the purchase of a used ambulance at a cost of $56,759 that is now housed at Boardman Township’s main fire station at Market St. and Stadium Dr.
      According to the Boardman Fire Department’s Emergency Medical Service Patient Transport Billing Policy, “If the BFD transports a patient to an emergency care facility, the Department shall bill the patient in accordance with federal Medicaid and Medicare guidelines
      “The patient shall be billed as follows:
       •Basic Life Support: $700
       •Advance Life Support (1): $900
       •Advanced Life Support (2): $1,100.”
      The policy says that charges for ambulance services provided to non-township residents shall be an amount not less than the authorized Medicare reimbursement rate,” and says all fees collected will be placed into a fund for “Fire and Rescue Services, Ambulance Services and emergency medical services in Boardman Township.”
      In another matter, a resident of 1061 Zander Dr., presented a first-ever issue to the Board of Trustees when Deborah Prosser expressed concerns about a tree house that a neighbor constructed near her rear-yard property line.
      Prosser said she has a 6-foot fence along the property line, but her neighbor’s trees house extends 12-1/2 feet into the air, and 35-feet away from windows at her home.
      “It totally impacts my quality of life and my privacy,” Prosser said, labeling the hut as a “man cave.”
      Township Zoning/Planning Director T.J. Kieran said the tree house is constructed in conformity with zoning regulations, saying the hut did not exceed 200 sq-ft, but was closer to 32 sq-ft.
      Township Administrator Jason Loree said he had spoken with the Mahoning County Building Department and county regulations “do not address this.”
      Prosser said that her neighbor is “morally incorrect.”
      Tom Costello, chairman of township trustees, said that local officials would try and speak with Prosser’s neighbor “to see if he will do the right thing.”
      The chairman remarked, “I’d like to see it dismantled, this isn’t right.”
     
     
  Privacy, Lighting And Noise Issues With Dairy Queen Remain Unsolved  
  October 26, 2023 Edition  
     42 people showed-up at a Boardman Zoning Board of Appeals hearing last week at the Government Center where a privacy issue involving a Dairy Queen at Market St. and Brookfield Ave. and, in particular a residence adjacent to the business, the home of Meghan and Brian Parry, remained unsolved.
      The Parrys say the business operates a drive-thru that is located at a point where patrons of the Dairy Queen can see into their home, and as well the speaker system used to place orders can be heard on their property, and parking lot lighting shines light into their home.
      To date, the Dairy Queen has not addressed those issues to the satisfaction of the Parrys; and owners of the Dairy Queen, Raymond and Christine Smith say they followed all regulations of Boardman Township Zoning Ordinance when building the business, including appearances before the Boardman Township Board of Architectural Review.
      The Parrys, the Smiths, as well as Boardman Township government officials all agree the Architectural Review Board approved plans for the Dairy Queen project that did not meet the requirements mandated by the township’s zoning ordinance.
      As such, Boardman Township has indicated it will provide funding for a fence to help alleviate the Parry’s privacy and noise issues; and at the same time has requested the Dairy Queen to lower the parking lot lights from the current 27-feet tall to 21-feet tall (as was called for in plans developed when building the Dairy Queen), and take steps to reduce noise levels from the drive-thru speaker system.
      “We are trying to get a resolution to this problem, and not hurt anyone,” Atty. John Shultz, chairman of the Boardman Township Zoning Board of Appeals said, accenting his remarks adding “We are striving for a resolution.”
      In addition to the privacy, noise and lighting issues, the Parrys have complained about delivery trucks at the business.
      Ray Smith said at the hearing last week “I have my own reasons for not wanting a fence...I don’t want the responsibility of a fence....I don’t want anything that I have to maintain.” He claimed that 60 per cent of the Business at the Dairy Queen is generated from drive-thru customers.
      His wife, Christine, said she opposed a fence between the Dairy Queen and the Parrys’ property, noting “customers would feel like they are in a prison.”
      Another hearing on the matter has been set in November.
  On The Nov. 7 General Election Ballot  
  October 26, 2023 Edition  
     Boardman Trustee
      Larry Moliterno
      427 Gardenview Dr.
      Boardman, 44512
     
      Boardman Fiscal Officer
      William D. Leicht
      8550 Ivy Hill Dr. Unit 14
      Boardman, 44514
     
      Mahoning County Educational Service Center Board Member
      (2 to Elect)
      A. Ross Douglass
      3655 Villa Rosa Dr.
      Canfield, 44406
     
      Marie Dockry
      1870 Mary Place
      Poland, 44514
     
      Brian E. Racz
      8017 Hunters Cove
      Boardman, 44512
     
      Boardman Local School Board Member
      (2 to Elect)
      Candace Rivera (Write-In)
      5314 Hitchcock Rd.
      Boardman, 44512
     
      Frank Zetts
      617 Forestridge Dr.
      Boardman, 44512
     
      Tex Fischer (Write-In)
      323 Melrose Ave.
      Boardman, 44512
     
      Questions and Issues:
      Mental Health and Recovery Board Renewal current expenses 1.35 mills 5 years
     
      Children Services Replacement Levy 1.85 mills for 5 years
     
      Boardman Park Renewal Three-tenths of 1 mill for 3 years
     
      Liquor Options
      Boardman Precinct 25 Coney’s 8535 South Ave. Weekly and Sunday
     
      Boardman Precinct 1 Grocery Outlet
      317 Boardman Poland Rd. Weekly and Sunday
  Boardman Historical Society Elects New Trustees  
  October 19, 2023 Edition  
      The Boardman Historical Society elected new trustees, at the annual business meeting, held October 14, at Boardman Park’s St. James Meeting House.
      The following will serve as officers for 2024: Deb Liptak, president; Jerry Armbrecht; vice president; Treasurers: Richard S. Scarsella and Armbrecht, treasurers; Bob Fulton, secretary; and Dona Hammond, membership chairman.
      New trustees include Karen Jarosz, Matt Detchon, Jim Dorman, Dick LaLumia and Mike Orwell.
      The historical society maintains a museum of pictures, records and artifacts at Boardman Park’s Oswald Detchon House. The society was founded by Patsy and Don Zabel. It was restarted by Rick Shale, Richard S. Scarsella and Deb Liptak, upon the death of Patsy Zabel, with the blessing of her family.
      A membership drive is underway. For more information, contact Dona Hammond at 330-726-0651.
  Ken Goldsboro Honored As Citizen Of The Year At Boardman Civic Association’s Awards Banquet  
  October 19, 2023 Edition  
      The Boardman Civic Association held its annual Community Service Awards Banquet on Monday at the Lariccia Family Center at Boardman Park. Honored as Citizen of the year was Ken Goldsboro, and Joe Rzonsa was recognized as Business Person of the Year and Tom Grantonic received the Community Service Award.
      Also recognized were two businesses with a New Building Award, and Best Remodeled Building Award.
      Goldsboro has been employed in the banking industry for four decades, including the past decade with Premier Bank.
      He has served on United Way’s annual capital campaign committee, as a past president of the Civic Association as well as a BCA board member, and two terms as a member of the Boardman Park Board of Commissioners.
      He has been a member of the Boardman Rotary Club since 1989, where he served twice as chairman of the club’s annual Oktoberfest, and also was named a Paul Harris Fellow two times.
      In the special needs community, Goldsboro is a board member and current chair of the Potential Development School for Children with Autism, has served as a coach for Boardman Community Baseball’s Challenger Division and is currently co-coordinator for Mahoning County Special Olympics.
      He is a member of Westminster Presbyterian Church.
      Rzonsa is owner of the Blue Wolf Tavern Restaurant & Bar, and also oversees Blue Wolf Events and Catering, and alongside his wife, Stacey, manages the Garden Kettle Artisan Kitchen. The three businesses employ upwards of 180 persons.
      Rzonsa is a member of St. Charles Church and a former Grand Knight of Council of the Knights of Columbus #274.
      Grantonic has been employed with the YMCA since 1968 where he currently serves as Vice President of Family Operations, overseeing the D.D. and Velma Family YMCA in Boardman, the downtown Youngstown YMCA, as well as Camp Fitch. In addition, he led the Youngstown Area Community Cup for 13 years and has served as race director at many, local running events.
      Goldsboro, Rzonsa and Grantonic are all graduates of Boardman High School.
      The BCA’s New Building Award was given to Keen Property Group, that developed Starbucks at 7680 Market St. Owner of Keen Property Group is Eleftheorios ‘Lefty’ Hazimihalis, of Boardman, who has also led the development of Get-Go at Southern Blvd. and Rt. 224; and a Taco Bell at South Ave. and Western Reserve Rd.
      The Best Remodeled Building Award was given to BCP Development, of Houston, Tex., that redeveloped 150 Boardman-Poland Rd., from a Pier 1 store, into RnR Tire.
      Serving at master of ceremonies at the banquet was Mark Luke, secretary of the BCA.Other officers are Dan Segool, president; Meg Harris, vice president; and Jeff Barone, treasurer.
  Boardman Harriers Claim AAC Cross Country Titles  
  October 19, 2023 Edition  
      Boardman High School cross country teams dominated last weekend’s All America Conference cross country championships, winning crowns in male and female competition on a muddy and slippery course at Howland Township Park.
      Varsity Boys
      In varsity boys’ competition, Boardman ran by Canfield, 31-54, as Howland was third with 105 points, Austintown garnered 127 points and Warren G. Harding did not have enough harriers to qualify as a team.
      Boardman senior Brock Farris earned AAC Athlete of the Year in cross country following his first place finish in a field of 60 runners.
      Also earning first team All AAC laurels were junior David D’Altorio with a third place finish, and senior Ethan Boots, who finished in seventh place.
      “A great team win-everyone contributed to this victory, but this was for our seniors,” said Spartan Head Coach John Phillips. “They have been outstanding leaders and have made winning this championship a priority from day one this past summer.”
      Spartan harriers making second team All AAC were junior Drew Kornbau placing ninth, freshman Dylan White placing 11th, sophomore Chase Moore placing 12th, sophomore Adam Nigro placing 14th, sophomore Dom Theodore placing 15th, and freshman Jonathan Burgos-Perez placing 16th. Junior Danny LaCivita earned honorable mention All AAC with a 20th place finish.
      The Spartan boys next will compete at The OHSAA District Championship on Saturday, Oct. 21 at 2:15 pm at Canton GlenOak High School.
      Boardman will need to finish in the top-8 to advance to the Regional Championship held at BHS on October 28.
      Varsity Girls
      The Lady Spartan cross country team finished the regular season on a high note, winning their fourth straight All-American Conference championship.
      Lady Spartan Gabby Vennetti was the AAC runner of the year bringing home the gold for the team.
      Other Boardman finishers were Olivia Brady, third;, Morgan Russo, fifth; Kenzie Riccitelli, 12th; and Lauryn Swantek, 13th. to complete the team score.
      Cara Zawrotuk and Mia Brown rounded out the top seven for Boardman. Morgan Auck, Sarah Bero, Sarah Butchko, Moriah Doyle, Jordyn Lacivita, Abbi Mihok, Ella McGee and Amie Ngyuen also competed.
      The postseason begins for the top seven runners as they head to GlenOak for the OHSAA District meet on Saturday, October 21 at 1:45 p.m.
      Junior High School
      The Glenwood Jr. High School boys team were the AAC runners-up and Glenwood girls harriers finished fourth.
      The Glenwood boys were led by eighth graders Sam Moritz who placed sixth and Jacob Turek who placed seventh. The rest of the top seven runners were Oswaldo Salinas DeLeon (13th), Luke Kornbau (14th), Evangelos Coutris (17th), Sammy Pickens (26th), and Liam Schaper (28th). The Glenwood girls were led by Haley Bero who placed second.
      The rest of the top seven runners for Glenwood were Matilda Mausteller (11th), Rachel DunLany (25th), Maddy Brady (26th), Jemma Pavone (30th), Colleen Sullivan (33th), and Kara Heavner (35th).
  State Agency Says Boardman High School Falls Short Of ‘Student Growth Expectations’ In American Government  
  Figures Show Enrollment Decline Of More Than 1,000 Students In Past Two Decades In The Boardman Local School System:   October 5, 2023 Edition  
     BY JOHN A. DARNELL JR.
      associate editor
      A review of the Ohio School Report Card recently-issued by the Ohio Department of Education (ODE) shows the state agency gave the Boardman Local School District a #4 rating on a scale of 1 thru 5 (in other words a ‘B’).
      Among the shortcomings of the local district was instruction on American government at Boardman High School where the ODE gave the school a #2 (D grade) noting “significant evidence that the district fell short of student growth expectations”
      The ODE report card also says “the district fell short of student growth expectations by a larger magnitude in all grades in science, in fourth grade mathematics and high school biology.”
      When compared to the state report card filed in the school year 2003-04 (when the ODE declared the local system as excellent), the Boardman Local School District shows a decline in enrollment of more than 1000 students over the past two decades.
      According to statistics provided by the ODE, in the 2003-04 school year, enrollment in the Boardman Local Schools was 4,838 students, including 23.6 per cent who were deemed economically disadvantaged,
      Current enrollment in the Boardman Local Schools, as noted by the ODE statistics is 3,705 students, including 47.6 per cent who are deemed economically disadvantaged.
      The ODE gave Boardman Local Schools a 5-star rating for “gap closing” that shows how well schools are meeting the performance expectations for students in English language arts, math and graduation. Gap closing also measures how schools support English learners to increase language proficiency, reducing chronic absenteeism for all students, as well as identifying gifted students and providing gifted services.
      ODE gave Boardman Local Schools a 4-star rating for its graduation rate (95.8 per cent) and also for early literacy---exceeding state standards in early literacy in kindergarten through third grade.
      ODE also noted the Boardman Local School District has implemented a “positive behavior intervention and support framework in compliance with the Ohio Revised Code.”
      Of the school system’s total enrollment, 16.5 per cent of the population, or 611 students, have disabilities.
      Per pupil spending in the Boardman Local Schools is $10,605, below the average state per pupil funding of $11,896, the ODE said.
      Boardman High school received a 3.5-star rating from the ODE that noted enrollment is 1,146 students.
  Police Reports Detail Initial Investigation Into Murder Of Michael J. Bruno, Who Was Shot To Death By His Only Son  
  October 5, 2023 Edition  
     Michael John Bruno, 75, was the victim of domestic violence and aggravated murder after he
      was shot and killed at his residence of 1894 Lealand Ave., by his son on Sept. 17, 2022.
      Following are the police reports of the initial investigation into the murder that resulted in
      Bruno’s son, Michael N. Bruno, being convicted of shooting his father to death in the
      Mahoning County Common Pleas Courtroom of Judge Anthony D’Apolito.
      The son, now 50-years-old, was sentenced to 18 years in jail.
      On Saturday, Sept. 17, 2022, at 7:31 a.m., all available Boardman Police Officers were dispatched to 1894 Lealand Ave after dispatch received a 9-1-1 call from 49-year-old Michael N. Bruno stating he had just shot his father and did not know where the gun was. [Bruno] stated his illness made him do it.
      Ptl. Evan Beil was first to arrive on scene, with Det. Greg Stepuk just behind him. Officer Beil observed a male, later positively identified as Michael N. Bruno, sitting on the front lawn wearing boxer shorts, flip-flops and a navy blue, short-sleeve polo shirt and holding his cell phone. dditionally, he had blood covering his hands and arms, his shirt and on his face and head. Bruno shouted that he was unarmed and was not a harm to us.
      Officer Beil drew his department issued handgun and ordered Michael N. to lay on his stomach with his arms out to his side. He complied and was secured in handcuffs. Asked who else was in the house and he stated just his father.
      Officer Beil advised Michael of his Miranda rights. Det. Stepuk made entry into the residence to check on the reported gunshot victim, and render aid if necessary. He found the victim, identified as 74-year-old Michael J. Bruno, deceased.
      It was discovered Michael J Bruno had sustained multiple gunshot wounds and he was determined to be deceased by both members of Lane Medics and the Boardman Fire Department.
      After being mirandized, Michael N. Bruno was seated in the rear of a patrol car and Officer Beil began to speak with him.
      Asked where his father was, the son (Michael N. Bruno), stated he was laying in the bedroom. When Michael N. was asked what happened he advised he’s been sick for the last week and a half and took two rapid tests at home. Officer Beil inquired if Bruno was referring to a Covid test and he stated yes, rapid Covid tests.
      Michael (the son) stated he may need medical attention too and said his father needed medical attention; and they both needed medical.
      Michael N. stated he did not know if he had been shot. I did not observe any obvious signs of trauma on Michael N., other than a scab on the top of his head and a few scratches on his knuckles.
      Michael N. was asked how the gun came into play and he stated ‘the disease’ made him have a gun. Michael N. denied being in an argument prior to shooting his father.
      Officer Beil asked Michael N. “So you just shot him then?”
      Michael N. stated “yes.”
      I asked where he had shot him and he stated he did not know.
      Officer Beil then sat down in his patrol car and advised dispatch that he had a male detained when Michael N. stated, unprompted, “I do have other guns, I’m trying to remember. I’ve always had a gun, but the police know that.”
      Michael N. then stated “and my baby Glock that I had when I was off duty”. I asked Michael N. what gun he used to shoot his father and asked if it was a rifle, a pistol, shotgun, what?
      Michael N. stated “I used the baby Glock.”
      Michael N. was asked where he obtained the baby Glock from?
      Michael N. stated, “I bought it when I was a police officer.”
      Police inquired as to where Michael N. was a police officer at and he stated he was a police officer at Mahoning County.
      When asked how many years he had worked there, he stated “This disease is taking over America.”
      Michael N. then stated that he had Covid twice and he had called off work at Cole Pepper (spelling unknown) Security at the VA Clinic. According to Bruno, he has been employed there as an unarmed security guard for two weeks.
      Michael N. then stated, “Oh my god, this is so hard, will they get my dad help?” I advised Michael N. the medics were working on his father and he stated “I want him to live.” Officer Beil was asked by Michael N. “Can you please get me out of this area, so I can talk to you. This is being more traumatic on me. I’m on OPERS disability. I’m no threat to no one. My mother is in a nursing home”.
      Michael N. then stated, “My dad wanted to call last night to get me to the hospital, but he listened to me, he should have called.”
      Officer Beil then drove Michael N. to the parking lot of Heritage Presbyterian Church, 1951 Mathews Rd, to speak with him further. Once at the church, Michael N. asked if we could please call Eric Cuccierise who was, Michael N. stated is his best friend, who lives in Seattle, Washington. Michael N. then asked if he had been shot and Officer Beil told him that he did not see any gunshot wounds on him.
      Officer Beil then asked Michael N. what his date of birth was and he began coughing. He was advised to take deep breaths and he stated he did not want to get the police officer infected. Officer Beil assured Michael N. not to worry, as he had been vaccinated when he stated, “the vaccinations don’t work.” Bruno went on to state that he had been vaccinated twice and got his boosters. Eventually Michael N. stated that his date of birth was 06/28/1973.
      Officer Beil asked Michael N. to describe how this all happened.
      Michael N. stated “I’m not a criminal...I’m a Sherriff’s Deputy, (who was) let go under just cause, because of politics from Mahoning County and I was at YSU. That had to have been like, 2006.”
      Michael N. then stated he had Covid twice and was down for a month. Michael N. was asked when he came back to from that, and he claimed he had been down for like two months and had been turning disability, and collecting OPERS, that he had been working 62 hours a week, and repeated 62 hours a week.
      Ptl. Beil told Michael N. that had to be tough and he stated “Yeah, the stress and Cole Pepper doesn’t want to give me time off of work.”
      Michael N. was asked “Then what happened?”
      He replied that his dad had no pulse when he had left him.
      Ptl. Beil asked Michael N. if he and his father had been arguing prior to him shooting his dad. Michael N. stated “The voices in my head with this disease kept at me, then the ringing of the ears, the ringing of the ears, the ringing of....
      “I tried to doctor it at first, so I could stay home, so I could just go to work and do my job.” Michael N. went onto explain how [his father] wants to go out and have beer everyday. Michael N. stated that he and his dad had their little arguments, but nothing severe and commented how, “we were getting along yesterday, it was fine.”
      Michael N. stated he told his dad to give him the rapid Covid tests and stated, “This is so hard.”
      Officer Beil asked Michael N. if that was today and he stated no, his dad had given him a rapid Covid test yesterday and the day before and how they came back negative.
      Michael N. thought it was a false positive. Asked what happened next, Bruno stated, “All this week, my dad has been pushing me to work more and just keep working and I’m like dad, I’m doing my best.”
      Bruno was asked how many times he shot his father and he stated, “I don’t recall, I think twice.”
      Bruno was asked if his dad was laying in bed when he shot him and he stated, “yeah, just like all the other Covid stuff that other people.”
      When asked if his dad was awake or asleep when he shot him, Michael N. stated he was not sure then claimed he was “semi-asleep.”
      Michael N. then requested police call his best friend from Seattle, Washington and how his name is on all of his policies.
      Michael N. then stated he wanted his father taken care of and requested a water so he was provided with a beverage and he stated he was no threat to us and, “I’m on the good guys side.”
      Prior to being seen by Lane Medics, Michael N. stated his blood glucose has been elevated for a while. Michael N. stated, “at work they would say I’m a good guy and I do my job”.
      When asked how he liked his job, Michael N. stated that he liked it and he does his job. Michael N. then stated, “I don’t want my face on the news” and “I’ve got my dad’s blood all over me.” Ptl. Mike Salser then arrived on scene at the church parking lot, along with Lane Medics to evaluate Michael N.
      Michael N. stated, “Is my dad alive, I hope he’s alive” and told the medics, “I was a cop.”
      While Michael N. was being evaluated, police asked Michael N. if he knew where the gun was at and asked him to think real hard.
      Michael N. responded by saying he did not know where he put it, but it may be in his dad’s room on the floor.
      While being seen by medics, Michael N.
      asked, “you guys going to come down and visit me?” and stated he wished to speak with the investigating officer.
      Michael was advised he would get the chance to talk to the investigating officer and he was secured back inside of my patrol car and transported to the Boardman Police Department booking to be interviewed by Det. Stepuk.
      Michael N. then said “today was his day off and asked if he could go to...medical. Asked Michael N. to clarify his request, Bruno stated that he wished to go to medical wherever he was going.
      Additionally Michael N. asked, “I’m not going to the jail after everything is said and over, am I?”
      Michael N. commented how he has severe PTSD and he was just at the VA doing his job and, “I’m more worried about my dad than anything else.”
      While being transported to the police station, Bruno stated he had a checking account and that his mom was in assisted living, a nursing home.
      Officer Beil asked Michael N. what nursing home. Michael N. stated he did not wish for us to tell his mom anything. Additionally Michael N. exclaimed, “I just want to go back and live like a doctor.”
      When asked what he meant by that, Michael N. did not answer.
      Upon escorting Michael N. to booking, he was provided with a glass of water and he stated, “I’ll just stay here and live forever.”
      Michael N. sat on the bench in booking and was given a ‘rights form’ for him to sign. Officer Beil planned on seeing if he wished to provide a written statement. The form was placed on the booking room desk and police had Michael N. stand up to look at the form and requested he sign it.
      Bruno stared straight ahead and became non-respondent. Eventually Michael N. stated, “let me just figure this out” and held his head with both hands on his temples. Michael N. then stated, “I’m going back to school and I’m going to stay in school and definitely going to stay in school and study and stay busy.
      Police had Michael N. sit back down in the booking room bench and asked what he did when he was with the Sherriff’s Office. Michael N. did not answer. He was asked if he worked the jail, the road, JJC or the courts. Michael N. did not answer and instead stared straight ahead while he squinted.
      Officer Beil asked Michael N. if he heard anything police said and he stated, “I’m just going to walk to get back to the VA Medical Center. He then stood up and I stated, “No!”
      He then ignored instructions and attempted to walk past Officer Beil. Bruno was told him to sit down, however he did not, so he was directed into a seated position on the bench in booking.
      Michael N. then began manically laughing and as police handcuffed him to the wall and he stated, “This is really fun.”
      Based on Michael N.’s manic state after he was handcuffed him the wall, Officer Beil backed up when he started screaming, “F--- you, F--- you, and I’m going to live forever you Mother F-----.”
      Michael N. then stated he was going to grab a gun, and reached towards the direction of my duty belt. I was out of Bruno’s reach and my duty weapon had previously been secured in the sally port’s gun locker.
      Michael N. then stated, “I’m just going to piss,” and began urinating on the wall and floor of the Boardman Police Department booking room.
      While he was urinating, Michael N. yelled, “Ahh, I love pissing” and “I’m going to stay pissing and live forever.”
      Due to Michael N. being handcuffed to the wall, and him actively urinating, Officer Beil backed up further to avoid being splashed. Based on Michael N.’s outburst and his violent behavior, additional police were requested in booking.
      Officer Beil requested an ambulance respond to booking. Michael N. began repeatedly shouting different variations of, “F--- once and f---twice and live forever” and lunged for and reached-out in an apparent attempt to grab me.
      Police Chief Werth, Sgt. Patton, Det. Stepuk, Ptl. Salser, Det. Doran, and Det. Kridler arrived in booking to assist. Michael N. began dancing and flailing his arms around, repeating the same variations of, “f--- once, f--- twice/ live once/ live twice/ you mother f-----s/ like a mother f-----r.”
      Michael N. then stuck out his tongue and stated “this was nice,” before sitting down in the puddle of urine. He then began rolling around in the puddle of urine, flailing his arms and his legs.
      Det. Stepuk attempted to speak with Michael about the shooting when he stated, “I’m going to keep saying this the way you wanted.”
      Michael N. then stated, “I’m going to stay with the police” and “amen and love you and live again.”
      Michael N. then closed his eyes in an attempt to make it look as though he passed out/ lost consciousness. However, Officer Beil noted his head did not fall, instead he gently lowered it so it would not hit off the tile.
      Det. Stepuk and Officer Beil called his name several times, however he did not respond. It was noted Michael N. was breathing, and police conducted a sternum rub in an attempt to wake him back up.
      Michael N. reacted to the agitation by squeezing his eyes tightly, but did not open them. He stopped squeezing his eyes shut when the sternum rub was ended.
      After a few minutes, Michael N., opened his eyes and stated, “what did I do” and asked me, “so are they going to put me in jail after medical?”
      Michael N. was advised that he would be going to jail following his treatment at Mercy Health. He was then evaluated by medics and his blood sugar was found to be in the 400’s.
      It was determined based on Michael N.’s behavior and his elevated blood sugar, that he would be transported to Mercy Health for treatment and evaluation. Bruno was handcuffed to a cot and transported via Lane Ambulance to Mercy Health/Youngstown. Ptl. Salser followed the ambulance and Officer Beil rode in the back.
      Det. Stepuk who advised based on the circumstances, Michael N. would be charged with aggravated murder and domestic violence. He was advised he was under arrest.
      The Ambulance Ride
      I, Ptl. Beil #2050, rode in the back of the ambulance while Michael N. Bruno was being transported to Mercy Health/Youngstown. Also present were Lane Medics and they asked Michael N. how he was doing and he stated, “terrible.”
      According to Michael N., he is on numerous medications for issues related to his diabetes, blood pressure and cholesterol, but he denied being on any anti-depressants, anxiety medications or psych meds.
      When asked if he knew the year, Michael N. stated correctly it was 2022, but he was unable to advise who the current president is and was unable to say how many quarters were in a dollar.
      Michael N. then became despondent and was mostly quiet for the remainder of his ride to the hospital.
      Michael N. began to stare directly at me (Officer Beil) and the handgun on my duty belt.
      Michael N. did tell me about 20 minutes prior to shooting his father, that he did attempt suicide by ingesting a bottle of Tylenol PM, however he spit most of them out.
      Additionally, Michael N. stated that he had never thought about killing his father prior to
      today, and the voices had not told him to kill his father until today.
      Michael N. was medically cleared and discharged from the hospital. Ptl. Chaffee transported Michael N. to the Mahoning County Jail.
      Search Warrant
      On Sept. 17, 2022 at approximately 7:45 a.m., I, Det. Chad Doran, was asked to respond to 1894 Lealand Ave., to assist with a fatal shooting investigation. Shortly thereafter, I was contacted by phone by Det. Stepuk. He asked me to respond to the Boardman Police Department to begin application for a search warrant for the residence.
      At 0919 hours, I contacted the Honorable Judge Joseph Houser by phone. Judge Houser granted the search warrant. The search warrant was executed, and several items were seized (all items secured by Det. Kridler during evidence processing, including---
       •Ten 40-caliber bullet cartridges in a bedroom (of the deceased) at the Lealand Ave. residence.
       •A glock 40-calber pistol in the same bedroom.
       •A bullet fragment inside a mattress in the victim’s bedroom.
       •A projectile on the bedroom floor.
       •Two projectiles inside the victim’s bedroom wall; as well as other items.
      All listed items were packaged and later secured into BPD evidence by Det. Kridler.
  In Memory Of Richard Blomstrom  
  Boardman Police Officer March, 1975 - February, 2005:   October 5, 2023 Edition  
Richard Blomstrom
      Officer Richard Blomstrom died Sept. 17, 2023 at the age of 72. Upon his retirement from his career as a police officer with Boardman Township, Chief Jeffrey Patterson said “Your personnel file contains many commendations from citizens, businesses and supervisors for your efforts in everything from capturing burglary and robbery suspects, to mapping apartment complexes, to assisting stranded motorists. My congratulations on your exemplary service to the residents and businesses of Boardman Township.”
  County Auditor’s Information Shows Enrollment Decline In Boardman Local School System  
  85 Per Cent Of Revenue Goes For Salaries And Fringe Benefits:   September 21, 2023 Edition  
     Mahoning County Auditor Ralph Meacham has again released a summary of School District Financial Statistics for the 14 school districts in Mahoning County. The data was compiled from Cupp reports, five year forecasts and salary information provided by school district treasurers.
      In addition to the financial information, the data shows enrollment in the Boardman Local School System has declined by 14 per cent since Fiscal Year 2019.
      According to the county auditor’s report, in 2019, enrollment in the Boardman Local Schools was 4,446; and in Fiscal Year 2022 enrollment dipped to 3,819.
      “This report is not meant to be comprehensive, but rather to show relevant financial and demographic data to taxpayers in a comparative format,” Meacham said, adding “All information contained in the report is public information, as is the information is available on the Auditor’s Financial Transparency webpage.
      “On average, school districts in Mahoning County receive 60% of property tax proceeds, which the County Auditor is responsible for distributing. This year we anticipate distributing over $160 million in tax revenues to schools. I believe taxpayers are interested in and entitled to know how Mahoning County school districts compare to each other and how they are changing over time. Key measurements include total enrollment, cost per student and revenue sources. The purpose of this report is to make taxpayers aware of how their taxes are being spent and to encourage active dialog with school boards and administrators,” Meacham stated.
      Meacham noted “the population in Mahoning County continues to decline with fewer school-aged children. Most school districts face lower enrollment and higher cost per student. Some districts have turned to open enrollment to boost enrollment. Ohio is changing the formula for the amount an open enrollment student brings with them. The change in state school support will impact the financial effect of open enrollment in the eight districts participating. For example, Jackson-Milton School District has 195 open enrollment students out of 800 total students. State revenue per student was $4,669 in 2022, and total cost per student was $13,392, leaving local revenue of $8,430. As state support decreases, school administrators must calculate the financial impact, and cost to residents, of educating students from other districts.”
      According to data contained in the county auditor’s report, local revenue accounts for 63.74 per cent of funding for the Boardman Local School District.
      By comparison, local funding only amounts to 15.58 per cent of revenues for the Youngstown City School District, where the superintendent’s annual salary is listed at $195,400.
      In Boardman Local Schools, the superintendent’s annual salary is $92,407 (under a retire-rehire program).
      In Canfield Local Schools, the superintendent’s annual salary is $132,498 and in the Poland Local Schools, the superintendent’s annual salary is reported at $127,500.
      On average, upwards of 85 per cent of area school district revenues go to salaries and fringe benefits for employees.
      In the Youngstown City Schools, known for achieving failing grades on state report cards, the average annual salary of a classroom teachers for Fiscal Year 2022 was reported at $53,292.
      In the Boardman Local Schools, the average salary for classroom teachers for Fiscal Year 2022 is reported at $61,427.
      Despite failing state report cards, according to Meacham’s report, average per pupil expenditure in the Youngstown City Schools for Fiscal Year 2022 was reported at $28,967.
      During the same period, average per pupil expenditure in the Boardman Local Schools was $12,118.
      According to statistics compiled by the county auditor office, the total budget for the Youngstown City Schools in 2022 was $87.718 million.
      In Boardman Local Schools, the 2022 total budget was $42.944 million.
  47th Annual Oktoberfest Set Sun., Oct. 1 At Boardman Park  
  September 21, 2023 Edition  
     Sunday, October 1st, Boardman Rotary will hold its 47th annual Oktoberfest, an outdoor arts and crafts event, on Sun., Oct. 1 at Boardman Park. Doors open at 9:00 a.m.
      More than 150 vendors fill the park for this one-day event that draws over 15,000 people annually. Aside from traditional arts and crafts, the show includes vendors offering jewelry, baked goods, custom products, and clothing. A food court will be filled with all the local favorites from sausage sandwiches, fries, and sweet treats for all to enjoy.
      The YMCA of Boardman will provide entertainment packed with physical exercise and fun for kids and families. Live performances will be held throughout the day at the Maag Pavilion and the Boardman Spartan Marching Band will march down the midway.
      All funds raised at this event support local schools, organizations, and non-profits such as the
      Boy Scouts, Easter Seals, Beatitude House, Salvation Army, and the YWCA.
      The 2023 Title Sponsors for this event are Stifel and Jones Wealth Management. There is limited parking onsite, as well as off-site parking with bussing provided at Southwoods Commons on Southern Blvd., just south of the park.
      Admission is $5.00 per person. Children under 12 are free.
      This year’s event is being co-chaired by Rotarians Liam Jones and Tina Chance, under the
      leadership of Club President Shawn Golden
  Appeals Court Rules 30 Day Suspended Jail Sentence Was Not An Abuse Of Discretion  
  In Case Of Woman Who Was Found Squatting In Home In Historic Newport Glen District:   September 7, 2023 Edition  
     Property Owner Given Final Notice To Clean The Site Up
     
      BY JOHN A. DARNELL JR.
      associate editor
      The Seventh District Court of Appeals has upheld a Mahoning County Common Pleas verdict that sentenced a woman to a suspended 30-day jail sentence (while placed under two years of community control) after she was found guilty of criminal trespassing (reduced from the original charge of breaking and entering) into a home in the historic Newport Glen neighborhood.
      An Akron-based attorney, Don Pond, appointed at public cost, claimed in the appeal that when convicted, Desmonique Hammonds, 33, was not given her ‘right’ to address the trial court judge, Anthony D’Apolito, during sentencing, and as well, the court abused its discretion in giving the woman a suspended jail sentence.
      “It is extremely concerning when a person who disapproves of the results of a civil proceeding takes criminal steps to attempt to undo court actions,” said the Seventh District decision authored by Judge Carol Ann Robb, who added “This is especially true where the entire situation appeared manufactured (by Hammonds).” Judges Cheryl Waite and Mark Hanni concurred.
      On Sept. 14, 2021, five Boardman police officers were sent to 157 Newport Dr. to investigate a female was inside the vacant home.
      Ptl. Nicholas Brent said police met with agents of the property owner, who called attention to a limousine parked in the driveway, and numerous lights on inside the home. They were told the female believed to be in the home was Hammonds, who had been evicted in Dec., 2020.
      According to police, the day before they were sent to the home, Hammonds had signed a ‘Turn-On Release’ and made a deposit with the Youngstown Water Department for service at the residence. That same day she contacted Allied Locksmiths for a service call and door opening.
      Hammonds told police she had not been evicted from the home (4,584 sq-ft, with five bedrooms, five bathrooms and three fireplaces) and indeed, she did hold the real deed to the property
      She was arrested by police, who said they believed Hammonds had deceptively entered the home and was trespassing by denying the property owner of his right to the home. Hammonds was taken to jail, and her mother came to the home and took custody of her children.
     
      * * * * * * * * * *
      In May, 2019 the Mahoning County Treasurer filed a foreclosure notice against the then owners of 157 Newport Dr., who were identified as Donald and Stephen Shetterly, who were given notice at the residence in Indiana. Certified mail sent to any unknown residents at the home was returned to the post office as unclaimed about a month later, Judge Robb said, adding in Nov. 2019, [Hammonds] went to the county treasurer’s attorney “asking for a quit claim deed and then leaving in an upset state.”
      On Aug. 18, 2020, the property was sold at a sheriff’s sale for $151,000 to Portage Banc LLC, of Kent, Oh., as the appellant court noted “through its statutory agent, Jitendra Kapasi,” and some four months later, a Mahoning County deputy sheriff posted a 30 day notice on the home that ordered anyone living there (particularly Hammonds) to leave by Jan. 30, 2021.
      Three days later Hammonds sent an email to an internal affairs investigator at the sheriff’s department, complaining that she was given a three-day notice and no eviction action had been filed against her in any municipal court of Mahoning County.”
      The investigator told Hammonds the only way to stop the process was through court proceedings,” Judge Robb said, noting Hammonds was unsuccessful in her attempts to do so.
      Hammonds then made complaints against the sheriff’s deputy and Boardman police, however, as Judge Robb said “In doing so, she acknowledged receiving the [eviction] notice posted on the property, while complaining no eviction had been filed.”
      The locks on the home were changed, and the home was checked by police and found to be vacant. However, as the appellate court noted, “Sometine thereafter, an agent (of the property owner, Kapasi) stopped to check on the property and noticed someone broke in through the back door, and while there, he overheard Hammonds speaking on a phone call.
      In mid-April, 2021, Hammonds contacted the property owner, asking if she could rent the home for $250/month and make repairs.
      According to Judge Robb’s decision, the property owner did not respond and later told the trial court the offer was extremely low, the house had been trashed and Hammonds had previously threatened him over the phone.
      Judge Robb pointed out when Hammonds met a locksmith at the home on Sept. 13, 2021, “she pulled up in a limousine and told the locksmith she had locked her keys inside the house.” Judge Robb pointed out that Hammonds had a piece of mail and a driver’s license that matched the Newport Dr. address, and the locksmith let her into the home.
      Police learned that the new property owner (Kapasi) had turned the water service off, but Hammonds was able to have service restored after she displayed her driver’s license and a document purported to be a five-year lease.
      On appeal, Hammonds’ counsel claimed his client was not allowed to address the lower court at her sentencing “on her own behalf and present any information in mitigation of punishment,” a point on which Judge Robb said that Atty. Pond replied in court “We don’t have anything else to say.” Hammonds first assignment of error was thus overruled.
      Her counsel also argued the maximum suspended jail sentence was unlawful, constituting an abuse of discretion and was unjust and unfair.
      “The overriding purposes of misdemeanor sentencing are to protect the public from future crime by the offender and others, and to punish the offender,” Judge Robb said. She noted that evidence presented at Hammonds trial in the lower court “could reasonably be viewed as one of the worst forms of criminal trespass. Hammonds broke into the house by falsely telling a locksmith she locked herself out of her house. She moved herself and her children into the house from which she had been removed seven months earlier.
      “The imposition of a suspended 30-day jail sentence (with two years of community control), was not an abuse of discretion.”
      And as Judge Robb said, the lower court also told Hammonds her two years of community control would be suspended if she found stable housing and “abandoned her obsession with the property at issue.”
      * * * * * * * * * *
      On Aug. 4, an inspector from the Boardman Township Planning/Zoning Office inspected the home at 157 Newport Dr. It was the third inspection of the property, according to township zoning records.
      Inspector Shaun Heffner said the property failed, raising questions about the condition of a rear porch and stairs, noting exterior walls are damaged and deteriorating, there is vegetation and plant overgrowth around sidewalks, lamp posts, and a basketball hoop; areas of the roof are in disrepair with weeds and debris in the gutters, and windows, doors and screens are damaged.
      The property owner, Portage Bank LLC (not a bank), at 7799 St. Rt. 43, Kent, Oh., (Jitendra Kapasi agent), was advised “Please work on the violations and the overall condition and maintenance of the property. Clean up any rubbish/tree debris and make repairs…
      “If you do not bring this property to compliance by Fri., Aug. 25, Boardman Township will issue a violation citation.”
      Kapasi reportedly owns at least two other properties in Boardman, and also owned the former Terrace Motel on Market St. in Boardman that was closed down and demolished after Boardman police raided the establishment and charged several persons living in the motel with drug violations. The motel was noted for a sign at the clerk’s desk that read “No refunds after five minutes.”
      In June, 2022 when Mahoning County Common Pleas Judge Anthong D’Apolito found Desmonique Hammonds guilty of criminal trespassing (reduced from an original charge of breaking and entering) at 157 Newport Dr., he suspended 27 days of a 30 day jail sentence, he imposed a two-year community control sanction supervised by the Mahoning County Probation Department, and told Hammonds “if a violation of community control occurs, a more severe sanction may be imposed including a 30 day jail term and a fine.”
      Early in Apr., 2023, the Penn Hills Police Department, in Allegheny County, Pa., contacted Boardman police requesting local law enforcement check at 157 Newport Dr. to see if Hammonds may have returned to home. According to the Allegheny County police, Hammonds had reported her 12-year-old daughter was missing and ran away from their home in Pennsylvania. However, after making the claim the daughter was missing, Allegheny police said Hammonds would not cooperate with their investigation.
      While investigators with the Allegheny County Child Abduction Response Team were conducting their investigation into the missing girl, they found that Hammonds had fled from her home, and during a vehicular pursuit, the woman evaded law enforcement. Hammonds was eventually located at a home on Boston Ave. in Youngstown, where she was arrested on charges of obstruction and fleeing and eluding.
      Her daughter was located, unharmed.
  Former Chief Jim Dorman Pens Book Detailing The 100 Year History Of The Boardman Fire Department  
  September 7, 2023 Edition  
Chief Jim Dorman
     BY JOHN A. DARNELL JR.
      associate editor
      As the Boardman Fire Department will turn 100-years-old in October, former Chief Jim Dorman will release a two-volume book, “Signal 55,” after spending the last six years gathering information and photographs, including interviews with 41 past and present fire-fighters, for the work.
      Dorman served as chief of the Boardman Fire Department from 1996 to Apr. 1, 2001. He first served as a volunteer fireman in 1968, and became a full-time fireman in 1972.
      While serving as chief, Dorman often looked through records of the BFD.
      “I began to think that no one really knew the history of the Boardman Fire Department, so I felt an obligation to organize and preserve it, so our fire-fighters knew our history. The led me to writing the book,” Dorman said.
      According to the former fire chief, the Boardman Fire Department was founded on Sept. 10, 1923
      Early in the 20th century, Boardman Township was known as a farming community. About 2500 people lived in the town, where large farms abounded. The Agnew Farm was known for its potato crops, and just south of that was the Garver farms, where corn was grown in field that stretched from present day Market St., along West Western Reserve Rd. to Hitchcock Rd. The Hitchcock Farm, stretching from what is today the intersection of Rt. 224 and Market St., all the way down to Hitchcock Rd. was known for its various herds of livestock.
      “Around the 1920s, there were several, large fires in Boardman,” Dorman said, including one that leveled eight barns on the Hitchcock Farm, and two others at homes of prominent residents---the McKay Family (founders of Home, Saving and Loan) on South Ave., and another at the home of H.C Heintzleman, who was a township trustee.
      “The farmers used to hang buckets on fences so they could use water to fight any fires that started,” Dorman says. “After the rash of bad fires, a group of about 20 men began to gather in a boiler room at The Boardman School (now Center Intermediate) to figure out how to form a fire department.”
      Dorman said at the time, if there was a large fire in the township, Youngstown city fire-fighters would be called to help fight a blaze.
      “Since the roads were all dirt at that time, their truck would get stuck in the mud,” Dorman said.
      Among those 20 men, one was Merle Gifford, who operated a grocery store near what is now Rt. 22 (it used to be Ohio Ave.) and Southern Blvd.
      “He took the lead and in Sept., 1923, Township Trustees C.T. Geiger, C.H. Stafford and S.H. McClurg, approved the formation of the Boardman Fire Department,” Dorman says.
      Gifford became the department’s first chief.
      Boardman’s ‘first fire truck’ was nothing more than two, 40-gallon tanks atop a model-T truck. There was no money available, and trustees could not buy a ‘real’ fire truck. To find money for equipment, the fire department (then all volunteers) would hold community plays, picnics and holiday events.
      “The fire department became a social hub of the community, and in addition to raising money for the department, funds were also used to raise money for the poor. The fire department was a big part of the community,” Dorman says.
      By 1927, enough money had been raised to build the first Boardman Fire Station (located where a Sheetz now sits at Southern Blvd. and Boardman-Poland Rd.). The two-story, one-bay building cost $7000.
      Up until the mid-1950s, there were only seven, full-time fire-fighters, and the bulk of the manpower was provided by upwards of 35 volunteer fire-fighters.
      “At the time and for several years thereafter, field fires were rampant in Boardman. There were so many open fields. People would burn trash on windy days and the fields would catch fire. There were days when firemen would be out all day long fighting field fires,” Dorman recalls.
      During the 1950s, Boardman began to change from a sleepy farming community to a center of retail and commercial activity in Mahoning County, particularly as Edward J. DeBartolo began to build the Greater Boardman Plaza. As the community began to grow, including housing developments, so did manpower needs of the Boardman Fire Department.
      Eventually, and along with the formation of a union, volunteer firemen were driven out of the department until there are none today. As well, calls for fires decreased, while medically-related calls (whether needed or not) increased.
      Dorman recalls perhaps the first, major fire the newly-formed Boardman Fire Department fought was in 1924 at Southern Park Race Track at what is now Southern Blvd. And McClurg Rd. The site was serviced by trolley cars and drew crowds of 10,000 people or more to horse races. There were also tennis courts, band stand and baseball fields there.
      “Several structures caught fire, but what was unique is our fire truck got stuck on a muddy road. A bunch of firemen picked-up the truck and carried it over a swampy area to get it to the fire scene,” Dorman said.
      During the more ‘modern era,’ Dorman recalls perhaps the most damage caused by a fire was at Stambaugh Thompson’s in the Boardman Plaza in Sept. 1987 that caused some $2.5 million in damages.
      Another bad fire was in Apr., 1965 at the Boardman Lumber Co. (at Southern Blvd. and Boardman-Poland Rd.) when several structures burned to the ground, including all the lumber supply buildings.
      In 1930, a barn, said at the time to be among the largest barns in the state of Ohio, burned to the ground on the Hitchcock Farm, killing livestock and destroying wheat and oats stored in the building.
      A major duty of firemen in the 1930, 40s, and 50s was pumping water out of basements following heavy rains.
      Dorman says that he believes the biggest change in the operating of a modern-day fire department compared to earlier days of fire-fighting is equipment---among the two most useful being air packs for fire-fighters and the use of thermal imaging.
      Dorman grew-up in Boardman on Oregon Trail and graduated from Boardman High School in 1967.
      A year later he joined the Boardman Fire Department, influenced by his father, who served as a volunteer fireman.
      “I started writing the book in 2017, and once I started writing, I was surprised at how time-consuming it was,” Dorman says.
      On Sat., Sept. 9, Chief Dorman will preview his book during a presentation to the Boardman Historical Society, and on the same day he will be at Boardman Park for Community Day, to sell and sign his work, from 4:30 p.m. to 6:30 p.m.
      On Sat., Oct. 7, he will be at Mr. Darby’s on Market St., that is owned and operated by Bob and Karen Neapolitan. Five members of the Neapolitan family served as volunteer fire-fighters in Boardman.
  Rivera, Fischer Are School Board Write-In Candidates  
  August 31, 2023 Edition  
     There will be three candidates for two seats on the Boardman Board of Education in the Nov. 7 general elections, including two write-in candidates. Incumbent Frank Zetts will seek re-election. Two write-in candidates have also filed with the Mahoning County Board of Elections. They are Candy Rivera and Tex Fischer. Incumbent school board member Jeff Barone will not seek re-election.
  Fire Chief Pitzer Cites Roller Coaster Year  
  One That He Cannot Look Back On ‘Without Great Concern’:   August 31, 2023 Edition  
     Boardman Fire Chief Mark Pitzer labeled 2022 as a “roller coaster year” that he cannot look back on “without great concern.”
      The chief released that message in his department’s annual report for 2022, that was released in Aug. 2023.
      “For as many positive strides we have made as an organization over the years, I cannot ignore the challenges that plagued our department [in 2022],” Pitzer said.
      Noting that eight members of the Boardman Fire Department left their posts last year.
      “This is a very alarming trend, equating to nearly 25 per cent of out department,” the chief said, adding “this turnover has several contributing factors---low wages and high health care costs seem to be at the top of the list.
      “Another factor is that most career fire departments provide advanced life support services.
      “The vast majority of fire-fighters hired have paramedic credentials and they want to function as a paramedic providing a higher level of care. Many recommendations have been made to the administration regarding these issues, and we are hoping improvements can be made in the future.”
      Chief Pitzer said in addition to staffing struggles, emergency medical services “continued to be an issue with the community...resulting in the unavailability of ambulances to respond to medical emergencies, requiring [the Boardman Fire Department] to call for mutual aid from neighboring fire departments.”
      During 2022, according to Chief Pitzer, the Cardinal Joint Fire District answered over 100 medical calls in Boardman. However, in August of this year, the joint fire district said they will no longer provide ambulance service to Boardman “due to our inability to provide reciprocal services,” the chief said, adding “All other surrounding fire departments who have also provided mutual aid wrote similar letters and emails stating the same.”
      Without mutual aid ready at hand, Chief Pitzer said “This has placed a significant burden and hardship on out department and community, resulting is delayed responses of up to 45 minutes in some cases.”
      The chief said “As someone who is tasked with the safety of our community, I have serious concerns for the well-being of our residents and our firefighters.”
  14th Annual Panerathon  
  August 31, 2023 Edition  
     The 14th annual Panerathon 10K/2-mile fun run/walk was held Sun., Aug. 27 held at the Covelli Centre in Youngstown. More than 10,000 people raised more than $600,000 to benefit the Joanie Abdu Comprehensive Breast Care Center at St. Elizabeth Youngstown Hospital. Among those competing in the event were pictured, from left, Abbi Mihok, Mackenzie Riccitelli, Colleen Sullivan and Lauryn Swantek, all from Bordman. Age division winners from Boardman included Amanda Ford, master’s women division; Jacob Turek, 13, in the 15 and under division; Alan Burns, 26, in the 25-29 division; and Gary Ford, 57, in the 55-59 division.
  Erica Galvin Earns Pastoral Degree And Loyola Ministry Scholar Award  
  August 10, 2023 Edition  
      Erica Galvin, coordinator of communications at St. Charles Parish in Boardman, has graduated with a Master of Pastoral Studies Degree from the Loyola University of New Orleans Extension program (LIMEX). Additionally, Galvin was granted the Loyola Institute for Ministry Scholar Award, demonstrating excellence in scholarship, leadership and service.
  The Angels of Easterseals presented a check for $106,726  
  August 10, 2023 Edition  
     The Angels of Easterseals presented a check for $106,726 to Jody Klase, CEO of Easterseals, as their fundraising gift from events held during the past year. The presentation was made at the home of Emily DeToro. Piccadilly Parlor provided the main course and Emily contributed her culinary skills for soups, salad and dessert. The Angels’ next event is ‘Friendsgiving,’ set for Saturday, November 4 at Tippecanoe Country Club. Also, the Angels welcomed six, new members. They are Andrea DeToro Rupeka, Mandy Corvino, Mary Ann Navaro, Missy Jackson, Maureen Guterriez and Trina McCain Pictured, in front, from left, Patricia Ceglie, and Jody Klase, CEO Easterseals. In back, from left, Joan Zarlenga, Geri Kosar, Cathy Campana, Angels past president; and Susan Berny, Angels president. Easterseals serves multi-generational clients throughout their lives with the following services: Adult Day Center, Community Center for the Deaf, Deaf Kids Enrichment Club, Home Delivered Meals, Kindergarten Readiness, Physical, Occupational, & Speech Therapies, School Based Mental Health, Summer Camp-Kinship Camp, Teen Group and Transportation. For more information, visit the Angels website at: www.mtc.easterseals.com or call 330-743-1168.
     
  Boardman Local Schools Spent $66.9 Million During Fiscal Year 2023  
  August 3, 2023 Edition  
     Meeting on Monday night, a report from Treasurer Arthur Ginnetti III showed revenue for the Boardman Local School District in Fiscal Year 2023 (July 1, 2022 to June 30, 2023) was $73.8 million.
      Expenses for the district during the same time frame were approximately $66.9 million, Ginnetti said.
      “Revenues have exceeded expenses in all funds by approximately $6.9 million,” Ginnetti said in his June financial report to the school board.
      Named as assistant principal at Glenwood Jr. High School was Brianne Severn, who was granted a three-year contract at $76,348 annually.
      Haley Blangero was granted a one-year limited contract ($40,870) as a sixth grade language arts teacher. She will replace Samantha Steele. Ms. Blangero received her bachelor’s degree from Youngstown State University.
      Lindsey Mack was granted a one-year limited contract ($40,870) as an intervention specialist at Center Intermediate School. She will replace Patricia Passarelli. Ms. Mack received her bachelor’s degree from Youngstown State University.
      Kaylee Randall was granted a one-year limited contract ($40,870) as a first grade teacher at Stadium Dr. Elementary School. She will place Cindy Bassett. Ms. Randall received her bachelor’s degree from Youngstown State University.
      The school board accepted the following resignations:
       • Wendy Kennedy, district speech and language pathologist;
       •Lisa Macciomei, Center Intermediate School intervention specialist,;
       •Eric Simione, noted high school social studies teacher;
       •Bryan Thompson, district school psychologist, resignation effective July 14, 2023.
       •Susan Bole, Glenwood Junior High School cafeteria server;
       •Jim Gahagan, bus driver;
       •Alessandra LaMonica, West Boulevard Elementary School teacher aide; and
       •Gay Mowery, Robinwood Lane Elementary School, noontime monitor.
      The school board accepted the following resignations from supplemental and pupil activity contracts:
       • Jamie Malish, Robinwood Elementary School language arts curriculum coordinator;
       •Noelle Matiste, high school Key Club advisor;
       •Eric Simione, high school Student Council advisor; and
       •Karen Rohan, high school drama business manager.
      Parental leaves of absence were approved for Alexis Drass and Sarah King.
      Limited, one year contracts were given to the following:
       •Patricia Ambrosini, 2.5 hr-server at Center Intermediate School;
       •Mary Friedberg bus driver replacing Ron Leone Jr.;
       •Maria Klacik, independent library aide at Robinwood Elementary School replacing Deborah Slaven;
       •Jessica Meyers, 2.5 hr-server at Glenwood Junior High School replacing Sandra Watson; and
       •Eileen Ramunno, independent Aide at Glenwood Junior High School replacing Natasha LaVolpa.
      Approved as curriculum coaches were the following:
       • Kristin Conroy, math coach at a rate of $28/hour and not to exceed 29.5 hours per week (to be paid from Title IIA Funds);
       •Lisa Hughes, literacy coach at a rate of $28/hour and not to exceed 29.5 hours per week (to be paid from Title IIA Funds);
       •Lori O’Heren, gifted coach at a rate of $28/hour and not to exceed 29.5 hours per week.
      Supplemental contracts were okayed for the following:
       • Haley Blangero, Glenwood Junior High School seventh grade volleyball coach, $4536;
       •Christine Carucci, high school orchestra assistant. $3780;
       •Laura Frost, Glenwood Junior High School Hope Club, $567;
       •Scott Lenhart, Glenwood Junior High School, Hope Club, $567;
       •Michele Prokop, high school Drama business manager, $2268;
       •Candace Wright, Robinwood Lane Elementary School language arts curriculum coordinator, $3780;
       •Scott Burns, high school Project Mayhem, $1890;5%
       •Claire Ferrando, high school volleyball assistant coach, $3402;
       •Khaled Kassem, high school boys soccer assistant coach, $3402;
       •Nader Kassem, high school boys soccer assistant coach, $3024; and
       •Tramane Pixley, high school freshman football coach, $4536.
      Approved as a high school girls cross country volunteer coach was Jacob Lape.
      Kristin Conroy was named to serve as Title 1 coordinator for the 2023-2024 school year and receive a stipend of $11,000 to be paid with Title 1 Federal Funds spread through 24 pays.
      The following employees were approved as hourly staff at $22/hour, not to exceed 29.5 hours per week, and not to exceed 1,110 hours per year for the 2023-2024 school year (to be paid out of Title 1 Funds):
       •Loraine Clark, Stacey Boccieri, Kelley Cervello, Sasha Detwiler Thomas, Jerome Gentile, Casie Joyce, Colleen Kather, Tiffany King, Erica Knapp, Renee LaBelle, Cherilyn Latimer, Frances Machuga, Janie Morckel, Georgiana Naoum, Timothy Niles, Susan Novak, Carolyn Nybell, Tom Olenych, Gary Orosz, Roula Saab, Melissa Seiple and Randi Wolfe.
  11 Set For Induction Into Boardman Hall Of Fame  
  August 3, 2023 Edition  
     11 persons are slated for induction into the Boardman High School Hall of Fame in ceremonies set for Sun., Sept. 24 at Waypoint in Canfield. In addition, Boardman High School’s 1991 state runner-up baseball team will be honored. Members of the Hall of Fame’s Class of 2023 are Jen Hlebovy Church, class of 2003, volleyball; Kris King, class of 2001, baseball; Evan Klepec, class of 2008, football and track and field; Jacob Lape and Richard Lape, class of 2007, track and field and cross country; Liz Lindsley, class of 1985, track and field; Rusty Morrison, class of 1972, tennis; Tim Morrow, class of 2006, golf; Connor O’Halloran, class of 2008, swimming; Dave Pavlansky, coach; and Courtney Schiffhauer Passas, basketball, 2008. The Hall of Fame event is sponsored by the Boardman Booster Club. Tickets for the ceremonies are $75/person. For further information contact Diana Alvino at 330-758-7819.
  Greg Smith Receives Certificate of Proficency  
  August 3, 2023 Edition  
     A 10-Year Member of Toastmasters International Local #408, Greg Smith, president of Compco Industries, has been awarded a Certificate of Proficiency that finalizes his Effective Coaching Pathway. “I started this before COVID,” Smith said, adding, “and with COVID, it really set me back because I had a good rhythm going, so getting back into it was hard. But once I started again I was able to get it back. It took two years.”
      Smith is also a Vocal Coach for people all over the world, including singer Roger Love. Newly-elected local Toastmasters president Debbie Larson (pictured with Smith) noted the certificate enhances the theme of the 2023-24 Toastmaster Year, that is “You Have The Permission To Be Great,” and includes ‘The Permission to Act,’ ‘The Permission to Grow,’ ‘The Permission to Make Mistakes and to Right Those Mistakes’ and ‘The Permission to Be Great!’ Larson added, “I am proud of Greg Smith for completing this path. Although it looks good on our new administration, but really we’ve had great outgoing officers that really get the credit for keeping the club and the momentum going through Covid and afterward.”
  Road Resurfacing Program Okayed At Cost Of $1.093 Million  
  July 20, 2023 Edition  
     Meeting last week, Boardman Township’s Board of Trustees approved the 2023 road resurfacing program at a cost of $1.093 million. 21 streets will be resurfaced and the work will be done by Sheely and Sands, the low bidder for the project.
      2023 Boardman road resurfacing projects follow:
       •Crestline, from Market St. to Sheldon Ave.
       •Stadler Ave., from Washington Blvd. to the dead end.
       •Glenwoods Ct., from Glenwood Ave. to a cul-de-sac.
       •Nevada Ave., from Southern Blvd. to Tod Ave.
       •Shadyside Dr., from Southern Blvd. to the dead end.
       •Clifton Dr., from Southern Blvd. to Erie.
       •Terrace Dr., from Southern Blvd. to Erie.
       •Erie, from Clifton Dr. to Terrace Dr.
       •Appleridge Circle, from Kentwood Dr. to Appleridge Dr.
       •Sylvia Lane, from Hopkins Rd. to the dead end.
       •Donmar, from Hopkins Rd. to Sylvia Lane.
       •Laverne Rd., from Hopkins Rd. to the dead end.
       •Anderson Rd., from Hopkins Rd. to the dead end.
       •Forestridge Dr., from Oakridge Dr. to Mapleridge Dr.
       •Trailwood Dr., from Bristlewood to Applewood Blvd.
       •Homestead Dr., from Southern Blvd. to the dead end.
       •Park Ave., from Maple Dr. to the dead end.
       •Black Friar, from Tippecanoe Rd., to Green Glen Dr.
       •St. Albans, from Green Glen Dr. to Little Johns Place.
       •Heather Creek Dr., from Loch Heath Lane to the cul-de-sac.
       •Jackson Place, from South Cadillac Dr. to Wildwood Dr.
       •Loch Heath Lane, from Hopkins Rd. to the cul-de-sac.
       •Presidential Ct., from South Ave. to Presidential Ct.
       •Red Grouse, from Loch Heath Lane to the cul-de-sac.
       •Yakata Doro, from St. Albans to the dead end.
       •Miltrace Rd., from Lockwood Blvd. to Truesdale Rd.
       •Oak Knoll Dr., from Overhill Rd. to the dead end.
       •California, from Rt. 224 for Southwoods Dr.
       •Trenholm Rd., from Rt. 224 to Melbourne Ave.
       Thalia Rd., from Lake Park Rd. to the Youngstown city limits.
      Township Administrator Jason Loree said the resurfacing work will begin within two to three weeks.
  Ban On Private Parties At Glenwood Ave. Home Remains In Effect, At Least Until July 21  
  July 13, 2023 Edition  
     At a court hearing before Common Pleas Judge R. Scott Krichbaun on Monday centering on allegations a home at 8383 Glenwood Ave. is being used as a business, Boardman Township, and defendants in the matter (represented by Atty. Mark Lavelle) agreed that a “joint stipulation of facts” will be submitted to the court by July 21.
      After the stipulations of facts are presented to the court, counsel for Boardman Township, Atty Matthew Vansuch, said the court “will issue its decision expeditiously.
      “In the meantime, the current agreed order prohibiting the property owners from hosting any social gatherings remains in place.”
      The initial hearing on the matter before Judge Krichbaum concluded with an agreement that the owner of 8383 Glenwood Ave., Michelle Firman, and residents, Taylor Moore and Malcom A. Carter, will not “schedule, organize, promote or host any social gathering...until further court order.”
      The use of the home for rental purposes first came to the attention of Boardman Township during the Memorial Day weekend when large crowds of people gathered there, and a resident said “only” the swimming pool was rented out.
      “The agreement is very clear,” Boardman Township Administrator Jason Loree said, noting that “any person who violates the terms and conditions of that (initial) order will be subject to sanction for contempt of court and will be arrested and held, without bond, pending a hearing upon the court’s earliest availability.”
      Stipulation of Facts Already Agreed To
      The following “facts” agreed to by Boardman Township and defendant in the matter at 8383 Glenwood Ave., include the following---
       •In May 2023, [defendant Taylor Moore) created a public profile for the residence as a ‘Luxury Pool Party Rental.’
       •The Luxury Pool Party Rental...is advertised...to accommodate up to 100 guests with parking for up to ten cars on the driveway and on the street.
       •Moore charges customers for the privilege of renting out and using the residence’s backyard as the Luxury Pool Party Rental.
      •The residence (at 8383 Glenwood Ave.) was rented out to individuals other that the defendants (Michelle Firman, Taylor Moore and Malcom Carter)...for ‘One Epic Pool Party’ on May 29; and admission was charged for the event.
       •8383 Glenwood Ave. is located in a single family residential district....where commercial uses are not permitted.
      Cease and Desist
      In addition to the case before Judge Krichbaum, the Mahoning County Health Department has issued a cease and desist order on property at 8383 Glenwood Ave., where residents have rented a swimming pool to members of the public in a residential area.
      The cease and desist letter was issued to the listed homeowner at 8383 Glenwood Ave., identified as Michelle Firman.
      Notes the letter, “On or about June 7, Mahoning County Public Health was made aware that guests of your residence were being charged a fee to use the swimming pool located at 8383 Glenwood Ave.
      “Please be made aware that since a fee is being charged, the swimming pool no longer meets the definition of a private residential swimming pool and to continue to operate this way, a license must be issued by Mahoning County Public Health.”
      Colton Masters, Health Board environmental health director, told Firman the Ohio Revised Code states that “No person shall operate or maintain a public swimming pool...without a license.
      “Since the swimming pool located at 8383 Glenwood Ave. has not been licensed in the past, the swimming pool would not be able to classify as an existing pool and would require plans to be submitted and approved by the Ohio Department of Health, prior to a license being issued.”
  Longtime Boardman Park Director Dan Slagle Jr., 72, Passes Away  
  Tenure With Boardman Park Began In 1972 As A Groundskeeper:   July 6, 2023 Edition  
     BY JOHN A. DARNELL JR.
      associate editor
      Daniel Slagle Jr., 72, who served as executive director of Boardman Park for 40 years, died Wed., June 28, following complications from surgery. He had retired as the park’s executive director in 2022.
      Mr. Slagle’s devoted his entire adult life to Boardman Park, a tenure that spanned some 50 years.
      He made his home in the historic Diehm House, the former residence of legendary Boardman Court Judge Edgar J. Diehm.
      A 1969 graduate of Boardman High School, Mr. Slagle’s tenure with the park began in 1972 when he was hired as a groundskeeper. While working at the park, he earned an associates degree in natural science from Youngstown State University, then continued at YSU, earning a bachelor of science degree in Combined Science.
      Mr. Slagle was promoted to assistant superintendent of Boardman Park in 1988 and four years later the Boardman of Park Commissioners named him to the post of superintendent/clerk, a position he held until his retirement.
      Upon becoming the park’s superintendent, Mr. Slagle developed a master plan, and during his service some 20, major capital improvement projects were completed. They included---
       •Kids’ Town Creative Playground, Robert Leathers Community Built Concept constructed by more than 3000 volunteers.
       •Tot’s Town Playground, community built, initiated by local Realtor, John Burgan.
       •Maag Outdoor Arts Theatre.
       •Elton Beard Family Cabin, funded by an ODNR Nature Works Grant. Major contributor, Elton and Christina Beard.
       •Kenneth Hofmaster Pavilion, community built concept.
       •Hike & Bike Trail.
       •Main Septic system that eliminated an antiquated on-site Leech Bed system and the connection to a public sanitary system at the Shops at Boardman Park. Major contributors, David Handel and Chuck Bishara.
       •West Quadrant Improvements Project that included the Thomas C. Masters Pavilion w/restrooms, a 300-car lighted parking lot, and landscaping funded by a LWCF grant.
       •Two sand volleyball courts.
       •Practice tennis wall.
       •Acquisition of 35 acres of greenspace that increased the size of Boardman Park to 227 acres, with 40 acres of Open Space property located in seven areas of Boardman Township.
       •Renovation of Kids’ Town Playground with plastic lumber made from recycled materials, funded by a Green Team recycling grant.
       •Exterior renovation of St. James Meeting House.
       •Veterans Memorial project developed in conjunction with Boardman Trustee Elaine Mancini and noted local philanthropist Clarence R. Smith.
       •Historical Village Septic System that eliminated an on-site leech bed/holding tank system and the connection to a public sanitary system at the Shops at Boardman Park.
       •West Quadrant Phase II, including the Lariccia Family Bocce Pavilion, ADA accessible playground and the asphalt paving of the 300-car parking lot, funded by an ODNR NatureWorks Grant and ODNR Scrap Tire Grant for Paving of Parking Lot. Major contributor, Anthony Lariccia.
       •The Lariccia Family Community Center Phase I, the renovation and expansion of the 33-year old Community Center. Major contributors, Anthony Lariccia, Boardman Rotary Club, Kennedy Family Trust/SJK Trust, Helen Stambaugh.
       •Exterior renovation of the Oswald Detchon House, a local historic landmark.
       •North Trail project, an 8-foot wide paved ADA accessible walkway that travels parallel to the main drive in the park and connects all park facilities, as well as connecting to existing nature trail system, four miles of trails, funded by an ODNR Recreational Trail Grant
       •Renovation and expansion of the Georgeanna Parker Activity Center.
       •Marge Hartman’s Paws Town at Boardman Park, developed in conjunction with a non-profit committee, Friend of Paws Town, Inc., organized by Boardman Township Administrator Jason Loree and his wife, Abbey, that led to the development of a 3.25-acre dog park, designed for dogs to exercise and play off-leash in a controlled environment under the supervision of their owners
       •Departmentalized maintenance operations, delineating daily duties and responsibilities; which resulted in more efficient and effective operations.
       •Web site and online reservations.
       •Military concerts and fireworks. Upon the completion of the Maag Outdoor Arts Theatre, initiated and established the annual Military Band Concerts and fireworks displays. He encouraged and eventually convinced the U.S. Army Field Band and Soldiers Chorus to perform at the park for the first time in 1996, and nurtured the relationship over the years to where the park is now part of their Summer schedule. Additionally, Slagle developed a relationship with the B.J. Alan Fireworks Co., headed by Boardman native Bruce Zoldan, where they are now one of the park’s annual sponsors.
       •Haunted Hay Rides and Family Night events.
       •Pepsi Vending and Donations. Under Slagle, Boardman Park initiated and implemented the placement of Pepsi vending machines within the park as a new revenue stream. As part of the Vending Machine agreement, Pepsi donated to Capital Projects (Maag Theatre, $6,000) and Kids’ Town awnings ($3,000) and a $1,000 annual sponsorship.
      Mr. Slagle was a recipient of the Boardman Civic Association’s Community Service Award, a member of the Ohio Parks and Recreation Association and the National Recreation and Park Association.
      His civic involvement included---Past President of the Boardman Civic Association, member of the Boardman Rotary Club, past president of the Kiwanis Club of Uptown Youngstown; a member of the Boardman Township Bicentennial Committee; past vestry member and chairman of the properties committee at St. John’s Episcopal Church; past president and life member Men’s Garden Club of Youngstown; Mahoning Valley Landscaping and Nursery Association.
      In 2014, Slagle was honored by The Ohio Parks & Recreation Association’s with its Harvey Woods Lifetime Achievement Award.
      On July 25, 1987, appropriately, he married his wife, the former Marilou Bonte, during ceremoies held in Olde St. James Meeting House in the park. They have two sons, Daniel, III (Dewey), and Tom.
      ‘I Love Boardman Park’
      “Most importantly, Boardman Park is about our community,” Mr. Slagle said upon his retirement as executive director of Boardman Park, adding “I love Boardman Park.”
      All of the improvements during his lengthy tenure were the result of community involvement and gives the park a unique niche, where volunteerism and donations have played a key role in the development of Boardman Park.
      Mr. Slagle had a unique ability to acquire and maintain community support; and weave through local politics to maintain his position.
      He leaves to cherish his memory, his wife of 35 years, Marilou Bonte Slagle; two sons, Daniel N. Slagle III and Thomas J. Slagle; a brother, Dave (Cindy) Slagle; a niece, Mandy Glace and three nephews, David (Connie) Slagle, Jr., Chris Slagle and Joe Slagle; a brother-in-law, William K. Bonte III; Matthew (Ashley) Bonte and Gwen (Murray) Thames.
      A sister, Ann Slagle Smotrilla, and a brother, Richard Slagle, preceded Dan in death.
      Dan was born February 25, 1951, the son of the late Daniel N. Slagle Sr. and Margaret Hayworth Slagle.
      Memorial contributions can be made to St. John’s Episcopal Church’s Building
     
      PICTURED:  UNDER THE LEADERSHIP OF DAN SLAGLE JR., at right, Boardman Park became the ‘Green Oasis,’ where annually upwards of 500,000 people visit. Slagle, who coined the phrase of the ‘Green Oasis,’ led the park for 40 years, and was employed by the park district for 50 years. He retired last year. He had a unique ability to welcome garden clubs, civic organizations and individuals who wished to plant trees, or create gardens in memory of their loved ones; as well as galvanize support for the park district that resulted in the construction of many buildings and trails, while still maintaining Boardman Park as a Green Oasis. Dan died Wed., June 28, 2023.
  County Health Department Issues Cease And Desist Order On Use Of Swimming Pool At Home On Glenwood Ave.  
  ‘The pool no longer meets the definition of a private residential swimming pool’:   June 29, 2023 Edition  
     BY JOHN A. DARNELL JR.
      associate editor
      The Mahoning County Health Department has issued a cease and desist order on property at 8383 Glenwood Ave., where residents have rented a swimming pool to members of the public in a residential area.
      The cease and desist letter was issued to the listed homeowner if 8383 Glenwood Ave., identified as Michelle Firman.
      Notes the letter, “On or about June 7, Mahoning County Public Health was made aware that guests of your residence were being charged a fee to use the swimming pool located at 8383 Glenwood Ave.
      “Please be made aware that since a fee is being charged, the swimming pool no longer meets the definition of a private residential swimming pool and to continue to operate this way, a license must be issued by Mahoning County Public Health.”
      Colton Masters, Health Board environmental health director, told Firman the Ohio Revised Code states that “No person shall operate or maintain a public swimming pool...without a license.
      “Since the swimming pool located at 8383 Glenwood Ave. has not been licensed in the past, the swimming pool would not be able to classify as an existing pool and would require plans to be submitted and approved by the Ohio Department of Health, prior to a license being issued.”
      Masters concludes “You are hereby ordered to cease and desist all operations regarding the charging of a fee to access the aquatic facilities at 8383 Glenwood Ave until plans have been submitted to the Ohio Department of Health (ODH), plan approval by the ODH has been issued, appropriate inspections have been conducted and deemed satisfactory, the appropriate applications and fees have been received by Mahoning County Public Health, and the appropriate license regarding a public swimming pool has been issued by Mahoning County Public Health.”
      Masters told Boardman Police Chief Todd Werth that “a lady staying on this property...wanted to say she is not a commercial pool.
      “I explained to her that ODH has made the determination that any pool that is rented out falls under the laws that commercial pools need to abide by.”
      The home at 8383 Glenwood Ave. came to the attention of Boardman Township officials when many complaints were received about a large party there over the Memorial Day weekend. The event was advertised on social media, and indicated admission was charged for the party.
      Raising more concerns for township officials were other social media posts advertising another party on July billed as “The craziest event of the year. Dancers will be on the deck and bottles will be in the air.”
      According to Boardman police, residents of the home have been identified as Taylor Moore, 30; Malcom Carter, 29; and three young children, including a 1-year-old child.
      Both Moore and Carter have been arrested on failure to appear warrants on matters unrelated to the so-called pool parties on Glenwood Ave.
      Boardman Township has filed suit against Firman and her daughter, Moore, as well as Carter, in Mahoning County Common Pleas Court seeking injunctive relief to prevent the home at 8383 Glenwood Ave. from operating as an event center in a residential neighborhood.
      The suit says in June 3, Carter indicated to Boardman Township officials that Moore and Carter had “no intention of ceasing the activities.”
      Notes the suit, “On June 10, Moore indicated to Boardman Township officials they will just keep paying the tickets, in reference to civil citations that Boardman Township officials issue to violations of limited home rule resolutions.”
      The law suit, that was filed by Atty. Matthew Vansuch, charges that Firman, Moore and Carter “are currently operating a luxury pool party event center at 8383 Glenwood Ave.” and “because of the nature of the defendants’ business, a public nuisance is created by the noise and light generated by the people and the music” and “the excessive numbers of people at the residence, the heavy traffic and parking on the roads in the area creating a hazard on the roads, and sanitation issues with the number of people using the residence...in particular, the pool and hot tub, all of which greatly disturbs the neighbors and the neighborhood.”
      Atty. Vansuch concludes that such an operation is prohibited by Boardman Township’s Zoning Resolution.
  July 4 Is A Monumental Day  
  June 29, 2023 Edition  
     As we celebrate this historic day in our country, maybe this July 4 can serve not just as a reminder of the past, or our accomplishments, or how many ‘likes’ we can get in our lives, but rather as a testament to WHO WE ARE TOGETHER.
     
      BY SHELDON DeVRIES
      July 4---Independence Day. It is a monumental day.
      The simple mention of this date will automatically spin us into a world of memory, with the backdrop of waving flags of red, white and blue. We remember parades, fly-bys, hot dogs, time off, family, cookouts and fireworks. It is a day bursting with meaning, memories and celebration.
      We are reminded that we are a free people, an independent nation. In the 200-plus years that these United States have been independent we have accomplished so many exceptional things. We have won wars, we have gone to the moon, we have invented the electric car. America is a testimony to a good work ethic, a tenacious vision and the human spirit. Independence seems to look good on us. There is a lot to celebrate.
      But, there is another side to independence, a darker side that we often forget. With great progress comes great cost and with exceptional freedom comes the ability to do as much harm as good. We have also watched the self-absorbed nature spike, and personal selfishness grow to an all time high. We watch people destroy their lives with negative choices and now we hear constant stories of harm, violence, bullying and dissatisfaction. Everyone seems to fight with everyone, and you can’t turn on the television without seeing atrocities. Even our social media accounts, that are seemingly filled with ‘friends,’ are testaments to hatred and discord, rather than encouragement and engagement. We are more plugged in, but less connected.
      This monumental day, July 4, is a somewhat bipolar expression of who we are and what our immense freedom has created. We have conquered the world and progressed further than any others recorded in the human experience, but at what cost? What mountain did we destroy to build our stone monument to ourselves? What was the cost of progress?
      As I watch the world pass me by, I sometimes think that the very thing we are searching for is the thing we have had the whole time. Have you ever watched those movies where the hopeless romantic sets out on a quest to find true love, only to realize that it was in the forgotten friend that was next to them the whole time? I think sometimes we are like that. We have given up community in search of significance, we have traded accomplishments for love, and have sold independence for entrapment to a world that does not seem to care.
      But you see, we missed something. We thought that independence is about being alone, and actually it’s not. It is about realizing that when we work together, we become free. True freedom is not about being alone, it is about belonging. Through my years of counseling couples, we spend much time working against the forces of dependence and co-dependence. As infants, we are utterly dependent on our parents and in nature, co-dependence between the crocodile and the bird who eats the bugs out of its teeth, are appropriate but in people-partnership they seldom mix well. You see, what we have failed to see, is that interdependence is what gives rise to independence. And when independence begins to become a lonely place, we can walk back into the safety of interdependence. We need each other. More than we may know. And maybe now, more than ever.
      As we celebrate this historic day in our country, maybe this July 4 can serve, not just as a reminder of the past, or our accomplishments, or how many likes we can get in our lives, but rather as a testament to WHO WE ARE TOGETHER--- That together we are strong. only together we are free. Together, we have created beautiful things. And so, maybe today is a time to reflect on who your people are. Who is your tribe? Who is your family? Who have you leaned on to become the independent person you are?
      Take a moment to tell them – build a monument of encouragement for those who have walked with you and helped you achieve. Whether they are living or gone, near or far, give them your thanks and appreciation. Celebrate your community today. Celebrate the ones who have gone before you, the ones who ones who walk next to you, the ones who will come after you.
      When you use your independence to celebrate their role in your life, you acknowledge your own place in theirs.
      Happy Interdependence Day!
      Sheldon DeVries is currently executive pastor
      of staff operations at Greenford Christian Church and future Boardman Campus Minister at Greenford’s new campus location at 7782 Glenwood Ave. that will open early in 2024.
     
      Even our social media accounts, that are
      seemingly filled with ‘friends,’ are testaments to hatred and discord, rather than encouragement and engagement. We are more plugged in, but less connected.
  Liam Jones Appointed To Boardman Park Board  
  June 22, 2023 Edition  
     Meeting last week, Boardman Township Trustees appointed Liam Jones, 28, of Rockland Dr., as a member of the Boardman Park Board of Commissioners. Jones replaces Ken Goldsboro and joins Trent Cailor and Joyce Mistovich on the park board. Jones is a graduate of Youngstown State University with a degree in finance. He is employed as a Financial Advisor, Portfolio Manager at Merrill Lynch, and is a member of the Boardman Rotary Club.
  DAR Officers Installed  
  June 22, 2023 Edition  
     At the June meeting of the Mahoning Chapter Daughters of the American Revolution, Regent Marty Campana installed the following officers for the 2023-2025 term. The are, from left to right, Standing left, Corresponding Secretary, Carol Hubbard; Recording Secretary, Bev Berger; Vice Regent, Emily Slaven; Registrar, Betty Rider; Regent, Kimberly Bland; Treasurer, Lisa McKinnon; Chaplain, Peg Goff; Historian, Louise Farkas. Missing from photo, Librarian, Sarah Keeler.
  Ulster Project Looking For Families Who Will Host Northern Irish Teenagers June 26-July 17  
  June 15, 2023 Edition  
     The Mahoning Valley Ulster Project is looking for teenagers and their families to host a teen from Northern Ireland during the month of July.
      The teens who are coming to the United States are 15-years-old and the Mahoning Valley Ulster Project is looking for families who have teenage children between the ages of 14-17-years-old to host the children from Northern Ireland from June 26 - July 17.
      The Northern Irish teens and American host teens are provided with a variety of spiritual, social and service opportunities. They gather to engage in group discussion and dialogs to help to begin to understand that they share much common ground. They also participate in many community service projects including working at day care centers. There are also many opportunities for fun as the teens gather for picnics, swim parties, dances and golf activities.
      Ecumenical services and Time of Discovery sessions focus on the theme of Faith, Love, Hope and Peace and Underground sessions are discussions in an atmosphere of tolerance building the bonds of friendship, trust and understanding.
      All expenses for the host teen and Northern Irish teen will be paid by the Ulster Project, except for the host family contributions such as room, board, local transportation, and family outings.
      The Northern Irish teens bring their own pocket money and monies to purchase gifts to take back home.
      Car pooling and rides are available to get teens to the project’s events.
      “The project has been described by past participants as the best month of their lives,” says local coordinator Greg Hartz who adds, “participants in the project agree that the friendships and activities of the month make it an exceptional experience that they will never forget.”
      For more information, call Greg Hartz at 330-770-1440.
  Lawsuit Seeks Ban On ‘Event Center’ At 8383 Glenwood Ave.  
  “Because of the nature of the defendants’ business, a public nuisance is created”:   June 15, 2023 Edition  
     “Moore and Carter indicated to
      Boardman Township officials that they do not have any intention of ceasing the activities.”
      BY JOHN A. DARNELL JR.
      associate editor
      Boardman Township Trustees have filed a complaint seeking a declaratory judgement and injunctive relief to prevent a home at 8383 Glenwood Ave. from operating as an event center.
      The home came to the attention of Boardman police on the Memorial Day weekend when an event that had been posted on social media drew hundreds of persons to the home, clogging roadways with parked vehicles and complaints about profane and loud rap music emanating from the party. According to a social media post, admission was charged for the party at $10 for woman and $20 for men.
      According to the suit, filed by Atty. Matthew Vansuch, the defendants, identified as the home owner, Michelle Firman (who purchased the home in Nov., 2022 for $280,000); as well as her daughter, Taylor Moore, and Malcolm Carter (who live in the home with three, small children) have been advised on several occasions that “their actions and activities violate the Boardman Township Zoning Resolution as well as other, limited home rule resolutions.”
      The suit notes that on June 3, Carter “indicated to Boardman Township officials that they would continue to have the parties unabated; and on June 10, Moore and Carter indicated to Boardman Township officials that they do not have any intention of ceasing the activities.”
      Notes the suit, “On June 10, Moore indicated to Boardman Township officers that they will just keep paying the tickets, in reference to civil citations that Boardman Township officials issue for violations of the limited home rule resolutions.”
      Atty. Vansuch says in the suit that Firman, Moore and Carter “have not secured any applicable permits from the appropriate regulatory agencies, this includes Mahoning County Public Health, for the commercial establishment that they are operating at the residence.”
      The law suit, that was filed this week, charges that Firman, Moore and Carter “are currently operating a luxury pool party event center at 8383 Glenwood Ave.” and “because of the nature of the defendants’ business, a public nuisance is created by the noise and light generated by the people and the music” and “the excessive numbers of people at the residence, the heavy traffic and parking on the roads in the area creating a hazard on the roads, and sanitation issues with the number of people using the residence...in particular, the pool and hot tub, all of which greatly disturbs the neighbors and the neighborhood.”
      Atty. Vansuch concludes that such an operation is prohibited by Boardman Township’s Zoning Resolution. A hearing on the matter has been set for June 27 in the Mahoning County Common Pleas Courtroom of Honorable Judge R Scott Krichbaum.
     
  ‘Our flag represents the greatest country in the world’  
  Essay By Boardman High School Student, Dylan Barrett, Earns Recognition:   June 15, 2023 Edition  
     Dylan Barrett, who will be a senior at Boardman High School, has been awarded third place in Fleet Reserve Association’s North Central Region’s essay contest. FRA is first and foremost a community of the Sea Services; U.S. Navy, Marine Corps and Coast Guard personnel. Following is Barrett’s essay---
      On the surface, the United States flag stands for the thirteen original colonies and the fifty united states. However, to understand the real meaning of the flag, you have to search much deeper than the surface. You must look closely at every single person who lives in our nation to truly understand our flag.
      The America flag represents all 330 million citizens of this great country. It united each individual as one solid body. No matter your political views, your race, or your gender, you are an American. Every citizen has a vital contribution to what makes our country great.
      The flag stands for the great leaders of this nation. It stands for every government official who has ever served to make America a nation to be proud of. It represents the people who founded the principles for which this country stands on.
      The red, white and blue flag stands for the brave people who served our country. The men and women who risked their lives to defend us, the citizens of America. They put the needs of the whole nation above their own. They are some of the bravest and most selfless people that the world has to offer. They are truly heroic, and that is what the American flag stands for.
      The flag represents the dedicated workforce of our country. Whether you are a doctor, an educator, or anything in between, the flag stands for you. The flag recognizes the hard-working citizens who provide immensely for the rest of their community. Citizens who construct their community, protect their community or serve their community in any way they can, the flag stands for you.
      Our flag stands for the great citizens of our country. It stands for every leader, every soldier, and every worker who calls America their home. Our flag represents the greatest country in the world.
      That’s why I can always say I am proud to call the United States Flag my own.
  Home At 8383 Glenwood Ave. Used As ‘Event Center’ Cause For Concern For Boardman Township Officials  
  Police Arrest Woman Wanted On Warrant Issued Out Of Austintown:   June 8, 2023 Edition  
     BY JOHN A. DARNELL JR.
      associate editor
      A large party held at 8383 Glenwood Ave. on Memorial Day has caused concern for Boardman Township officials who promptly responded to complaints about the event that was posted on social media and drew hundreds of persons to the home, clogging nearby roadways with parked vehicles, and complaints about profane and loud rap music emanating from the party.
      According to a social media post, admission was charged for the party at $10 for women and $20 for men.
      One woman who told police she had been at the party, was arrested after she left the event and was charged with driving under the influence.
      Raising more concerns from township officials was another post on social media advertising another party at the home on Sat., July 1 that would be hosted by a person who calls herself ‘Toothicktomiss,’ and another person identified as Taylor Promyss.
      Toothicktoomiss says on social media she “don’t work jobs. I am a job.”
      The July 1 party is advertised as “the craziest event of the year. Dancers will be on the deck and bottles will be in the air.”
      According to property records of the Mahoning County Auditor’s Office, 8383 Glenwood Ave. is owned by a woman named Michelle Firman, who purchased the home on Nov. 17, 2022 at a cost of $280,000.
      Firman is a ‘family services advisor’ employed at Calvary Cemetery.
      The auditor’s office lists the taxpayer as Firman, with an address of 8383 Glenwood Ave.
      When Boardman police were at the home two days after the party, they reported two adults inside, a 30-year-old female named Taylor Moore, who was arrested on two felony theft warrants issued out of Austintown; as well as a man named Malcom Carter, whom police said is Moore’s live-in partner of 11 years; and three children, including a 1-year-old.
      Moore told police she moved into the home in Nov., 2022, moving from Austintown, where she resided at 4427 Nantucket Dr. Court records also show that Firman once listed the Nantucket Dr. residence as her address.
      Police also said a car had been repossessed at 8383 Glenwood Ave. about 5:00 a.m. on June 1.
      On May 29, complaints brought Boardman police to the home at 8383 Glenwood Ave. no less than five times.
      Near 11:00 a.m., police responded to a call of an erratic driver (driving in reverse and on the wrong side of the road) on Glenwood Ave., near Boardman High School.
      Ptl. Evan Beil said he observed a Jeep Cherokee with Florida license plates traveling towards Youngstown at an extremely high rate of speed, estimated to be 90-miles-per-hour.
      Officer Beil pursued the vehicle that finally stopped on Glenwood Ave., near Ridgewood Estates.
      The driver was identified as Tyeisha Burney, 34, of 351 Breaden St., Youngstown, Oh.
      “I noticed she was not wearing any shoes. She was crying and complaining about being assaulted,” Officer Beil said, adding the woman was slurring her words and he detected an odor of alcoholic beverage.
      Burney told police she had been at a party at 8383 Glenwood Ave. and had smoked marihuana “earlier in the day and had ‘about’ two shots of liquor,” while complaining about being assaulted and that her purse and cell phone were stolen and the people at the house of Glenwood Ave. had them.”
      Officer Beil noted that Burney stated she “was going to f--- up’ the girls who had assaulted her.
      She was placed under arrest for driving under the influence and reckless operation, and police said a bag of marihuana was found in her purse.
      On Fri., June 2, Boardman Township officials met on concerns at 8383 Glenwood Ave., and upon the advice of the Mahoning County Prosecutor’s Office, consideration was given to seek injunctive relief in an effort to prevent additional events at the home.
      Township Administrator Jason Loree said that 8383 Glenwood Ave. is located in a residential area, and Boardman’s zoning ordinance prohibits an “event center” from operating in a residential area.
  DNA Links Bellino Killer To Death Of David Evans  
  Frozen Body Found Jan. 23, 1975 In Backyard Of Crestline Place Home:   June 8, 2023 Edition  
     BY JOHN A. DARNELL JR.
      associate editor
      New DNA testing has concluded the likelihood that Joseph Norman Hill was the killer of 13-year-old David Evans, whose frozen body was found on Jan. 23, 1975 in the backyard of a Crestline Place residence.
      In Jan., 2023, Boardman police announced that DNA testing had concluded the Hill was the killer of 13-year-old Bradley Bellino, whose lifeless body was found in a dumpster behind the Boardman Plaza on Apr. 4, 1972.
      Hill, who lived at 151 Shadyside Dr. in Boardman, reportedly moved to southern California in 1978. He died on July 3, 2019 in Yusiapa, California of senile degeneration of the brain.
      Soon after the announcement that Hill had murdered Bradley Bellino, 30-year veteran Boardman police officer Sgt. Mike Hughes was assigned to investigate the death of David Evans.
      A major hurdle in the newly-opened investigation into Evans death, was his death certificate, that stated the boy had died as a result of a diabetic attack, or in other words, of natural causes. As such, according to Ohio Bureau of Criminal Identification (BCI) standards, no crime had been committed.
      Sgt. Hughes, as did former Boardman Police Officer Steve Balog on the day Evans body was discovered, disputed then Coroner Nathan Belinky’s ruling that Evans death was from natural causes, especially in light of a broken arm that had apparently been suffered after his death.
      Sgt. Hughes, with assistance from former Boardman Police Chief Glenn E. Bowers, contacted current Mahoning County Coroner Dr. David Kennedy, who amended Evans cause of death to a homicide, clearing the way for BCI to conduct new DNA testing.
      Then, in mid-May, Boardman police were informed that DNA testing indicated that Hill is likely the killer of David Evans.
      “Even if he died as a result of a diabetic attack, he was prohibited from receiving the proper treatment,” one respected law enforcement officer told The Boardman News.
      David Evans lived at 208 Ridgewood Dr. in Boardman, and on Jan. 18, 1975 at 2:10 a.m., his father reported his son, a diabetic, was missing. The boy’s frozen body was found six days later in the rear yard of a home on Crestline Place, near the intersection of Rt. 224 and Market St.
      The Evans family moved to Boardman’s Ridgewood Estates in 1972 from Lakewood, New York in New York State’s southwestern tier, by Lake Chautauqua.
      Interviewed by legendary local writer, Janie S. Jenkins a week after David went missing, his parents, Peter and Gracia, said the family moved to Boardman, in part because the local school system offered what their children needed.
      At school in western New York, David was described as a self-conscious lad who was often the subject of ‘verbal harassment’ from his schoolmates. He was born with a deformity that resulted in one hand with two fingers and a thumb, and more narrow than the normal hand---He also had an operation to correct eye muscles when he was six, and at the age of nine was diagnosed with diabetes.
      “The other children in New York were not kind about it,” the parents told Ms. Jenkins.
      In Boardman, David played in Boardman Little League for longtime coach Rudy Granito. He learned to catch using his deformed hand to catch the ball without the glove falling off, spending hours bouncing the ball from his house roof into the mitt. He was an ‘A-B’ student as a seventh grader at Center Middle School, where he was a member of the band. He went to the YMCA and liked model airplanes.
      Mr. Granito told police that David was not the kind of boy who would get into a car with somebody that he didn’t know.
      “He was shy...picky with his friends and did not just mingle with anybody...He was a more grown-up boy that some of the boys on our team,” Granito told police.
      His father told Ms. Jenkins his son had “a fierce determination to succeed in everything, from studies to athletics, and that was the result of having ‘to excel to overcome’ the diabetes, eye surgery and malformed left hand.” He also said his son wasn’t ‘a hanger-outer’ and had been taught to let his parents know where he was going after school, or after a game, and he always did.”
      A Boardman Police Department report taken at 12:10 a.m. by Ptl. George Statler on Jan. 18, 1975 provided the first notification that David Evans could be missing, when his father said his son had not been seen for six hours.
      David was last seen near the intersection of Withers Dr. and Market St. about 6:00 p.m. on Jan. 17, an area where the stocking hat he was wearing was later found in the snow. His father said he thought David was walking home and told Ptl. Statler his son “never had any problems at home, nor had he been depressed,
      “Mr. Evans then stated ‘David is a diabetic’ and needed a shot once every day.”
      Within 20 minutes of the information, Boardman police scoured the Ridgewood Estates neighborhood, nearby Lake Forest Cemetery, as well as Boardman Lake area---then the Boardman Plaza, Southern Park Mall, Boardman High School, and two middle schools
      “Many dumpsters were looked-in, all of the night coffee shops and restaurants were checked,” Capt. Harry VandenBosch said. Information in the missing boy, as well as his need for insulin was provided to all area law enforcement agencies. The Ohio National Guard provided a helicopter to assist in the search.
      On Jan. 23, 1975, Boardman police were notified a body had been found in the back yard of a home on Crestline Place. David Evans was found---laying on his back in below-freezing temperatures, without the stocking cap his father said he had been wearing.
      One day after the body was found, Mahoning County Deputy Coroner Dr. William A. Johnson ruled an “investigation developed no element of criminality” into Evans’ death, and the immediate cause of death as a diabetic coma.
      County Coroner Dr. Nathan Belinky said “since David’s death was caused by diabetic coma, and there were no physical findings serious enough to cause traumatic death.”
      The ruling was made, despite strong objections from Ptl. Steve Balog, who was on the scene of the discovery of the body.
      As Balog and others argued, the body of David Evans showed fractures to his left radius and ulna were suffered after he died, as well there was a puncture wound in his lower back, also incurred after death. Assistant Coroner Johnson also noted the were “multiple abrasions” on the child’s face, including left eyebrow, right chin and earlobe, and upper part of his back.
      “How could the boy suffer broken bones after he was dead,” Capt. Balog and others opined.
      Despite the coroner’s findings, then Boardman Police Chief Grant L. Hess asked the Ohio Bureau of Identification (BCI) to process an ‘Inventory of Evidence’ that included the clothes Evans was wearing, “slides” of fingernail scrapings and a surveyor’s stake.
      “We are particularly interested in any evidence of semen, blood, hair samples, fibers or other particulars,” Hess said.
      On Feb. 3, BCI Identity Technician Charles Barna told Hess his examination found “no seminal fluid or blood on Evans’ clothing; hair,” however he did find red and white fibers and orange paint particles on Evans’ shoes, and a hair was found on the jacket the boy had been wearing. A button was also missing from the jacket he was wearing.
      “The red and white nylon fibers could be from a blanket or a carpet,” Barna said, noting the greatest concentration of material on the shoes was “on the back of the heel, as though he was drug.” Barna also said the sole of a shoe “appeared sticky.” He also noted a tire track had been located near where the boy’s body had been found, but was “as yet unidentified.”
      Late in the evening on Jan. 24, 1975, a woman called police saying she was in a parking lot of a dance studio on the night Evans was first reported missing. The parking lot abutted the property where Evans’s body was discovered.
      The woman said she pulled into the parking lot about 7:00 p.m. and believed she observed a “red, full-sized auto back up to the embankment, near where Evans’ body was found,” Ptl John Rosensteel said.”
      According to a report filed by Rosensteel, the woman said a white man wearing a tan windbreaker exited the car, “looked around and then tossed something over the embankment.
      “She observed the man return to his car, flip the front seat forward and flash a light around the back seat.”
      The woman gave police what she believed was the first several letters and numbers on the car’s license plate. Several years later, attempts were made to match the license plate with a red car, to no avail.
      As for the stocking cap found the night of David’s disappearance in the area of Market St. and Withers Dr.---On Jan 28, Ptl. William Laubenheimer said that he received a call from an anonymous man who said sometime between 6:00 p.m. and 6:30 p.m. on Jan. 17, someone had observed a man and a boy in a struggle near Market St. and Withers Dr., during which both got into a black car.
      Boardman police never closed their files on the Evans case, and as in the death of Bradley Bellino, tracked down potential suspects throughout much of the eastern United States; and as was the case in the Bellino investigation, to no avail.
      Sometime after his son’s death, Peter Evans received a letter in the mail from an inmate in an Ohio Penitentiary in which the inmate claimed to know his son’s killer, who was also in the same jail and had talked about the crime.
      After lengthy exchanges of letters, on July 26, 1988 BPD Capt. Steve Balog (who as a patrolman found Evans body) and Det./Lt. Robert Rupp travelled to Lucasville Prison to interview the inmate.“ After listening to the facts of the case that he was aware of, it became evident that his knowledge of the case is extremely limited,” Capt. Balog said.
     
      PICTURED:JOSEPH NORMAN HILL, formerly of 151 Shadyside Dr., has been named as the likely killer of 13-year-old David Evans, of Ridgewood Estates, in Jan., 1975. Earlier this year, DNA testing revealed the Hill was the killer of 13-year-old Bradley Bellino in 1972. Hill moved from Boardman to southern California in 1978 and died there in 2019. Police in California are looking into cold cases in the state to uncover if there could be any link to Hill. There are a reported 41,000 cold cases in California.
  New Contract With Teachers’ Union Will Cost Boardman Local Schools $2.416 Million For Pay Raises; And $700,000 More For Increases In Health Insurance Coverage  
  June 1, 2023 Edition  
     BY JOHN A. DARNELL JR.
      associate editor
      A new, three-year contract between the Boardman Board of Education and its teachers union, the Boardman Education Association (BEA), will cost the school district $2.416 million in salary increases over the span of the agreement, that takes effect on July 1. In addition, health care allocations paid for by the district will increase some $700,000.
      The agreement was unanimously approved by the Board of Education last week.
      Also, according to the agreement, members of the BEA will also receive a one-time, $1500 cost of living stipend, and employee contributions for health insurance will increase by 5 per cent.
      The school district says it employs “nearly 300 teachers.” An online source called the Public School Review says the district employed 210 teachers in the 2020-21 school year.
      Spread over the term of the agreement, teachers’ pay raises will cost the district $770,631 for the 2023-24 year; $805,078 for the 2024-25 year; and $841,065 for the 2025-26 year, according to Supt. Tim Saxton.
      The base (beginning) salary will increase from $37,805 during the first year of the agreement, to $42.276 in its third year.
      Maximum teacher salaries will rise from $81,188 for the 2023-24 year to $86,134 for the 2025-26 year.
      According to the newly-approved negotiated agreement, the Board of Education will allocate $6.9 million during the 2023-24 school year for medical insurance coverage (medical, dental and vision) and health insurance payments will increase to $7.6 million in the 2025-26 school year.
      “Health insurance costs above the allocated amount will be offset by increased employee contribution, and/or a plan/design change as determined by the Boardman Local Schools Health Insurance Committee,” says the negotiated agreement.
      “It’s important that Boardman stays competitive salary wise to attract and retain top educators...but we have to balance that concern with fiscal responsibility to the community. I firmly believe this contract accomplishes both,” Supt. Saxton said.
      BEA president Brandy Barborak said the new contract is a “fair compromise that takes into account the needs of our students, the good of the community, and the dedication our members have to the district and to Boardman in general.”
  27 Year Fire Department Veteran Tom Donadee Promoted To Lieutenant  
  June 1, 2023 Edition  
     Tom Donadee, a 27 year veteran of the Boardman Fire Department, was promoted to the rank of lieutenant as a Fire Prevention Officer last week at a meeting of Boardman Township Trustees. He is pictured with his wife, Karen, who pinned his new rank bar in on his uniform. Lt. Donadee holds a bachelor’s degree from Youngstown State University and served six years in the Ohio National Guard’s 838th MP Battalion. He received his firefighter certification at the Ohio State Fire Academy in Reynoldsburg. Lt. Donadee is an American Heart Association CPR instructor, a certified Juvenile Fire Setter Intervention Officer, and State Certified Fire Inspector. He is also the recipient of the State Fire Service Valor Award and is a Liberty Mutual Fire Mark Award winner. During the promotion ceremony, Chief Mark Pitzer noted Lt. Donadee “goes above and beyond the call of duty and his service has impacted a lot of people in a positive manner.”
  BOARDMAN TOWNSHIP’S 119th ANNUAL MEMORIAL DAY Parade  
  Lead Vehicles Carry Veterans:   June 1, 2023 Edition  
     BOARDMAN TOWNSHIP’S 119th ANNUAL MEMORIAL DAY parade and services were held on Monday. Among the lead vehicles in the parade was a U.S. Army jeep driver by John Curea, at right, a U.S. Airborne vet who served in the Army from 1983-87. In middle is his father, John Curea, a Korean War veteran. At left is U.S. Army veteran Phill Markovitz, who serves as local American Legion commander.
  3,717 Suspected Oxycodone Pills, Stolen Gun Seized During Raid At Shields Rd. Apartment  
  27-Year-Old Man Faces Drug Trafficking Charge For A Second Time:   May 25, 2023 Edition  
     BY JOHN A. DARNELL JR.
      associate editor
      A search warrant served at 167 Shields Rd. on Wed., May 17 netted police 3,717 pills of suspected oxycontin as well as a stolen gun and led to the arrest of a 27-year-old man who lived there.
      Boardman Police Narcotics Enforcement Unit commander, Sgt. Michael Hughes, said the pills will be further analyzed to see if they contain fentynal.
      Arrested was Jose Luis Valentin. He was charged with trafficking in drugs, receiving stolen property and having weapons under a disability.
      Sgt. Hughes said the gun, a 40-caliber Glock, had been stolen in a burglary in New Castle, Pa. When seized by police, the weapon was loaded, with one round in the chamber.
      Police went to Valentin’s residence after obtaining a search warrant signed by Boardman Court Judge Joseph Houser.
      Police had to break down the door of the apartment to gain entry, and then observed Valentin near a bedroom door.
      According to police, Valentin then entered the bedroom and slammed the door shut, as police commanded the man to come out of the bedroom.
      “He did, slowly,” Sgt Hughes said, noting Valentin was then asked if there was anything he should not have in the apartment.
      “He responded, ‘my gun,’ and also stated ‘pills.’”
      When asked if he had a prescription for the pills, Valentin told police, “No, I just take ‘em, pop ‘em.”
      In addition to the pills and loaded gun, police found $647, a cell phone and two loaded magazines of .40 caliber ammunition.
      When asked to provide the code for his cell phone, Valentin refused, Sgt. Hughes said.
      Records of the Boardman Police Department show on Jan. 20, 2016, a raid was conducted at Valentin’s residence, an apartment located at 46 Shields Rd.
      When police entered the apartment through an unlocked door, they found Valentin, a female named Leasal Scott, 19, and their 1-year-old son inside, as well as a plastic tray that contained several pieces of crack cocaine and paper folds of crack cocaine.
      Police said the paper folds were packaged for sale and located inside a kitchen cabinet.
      The crack cocaine seized by police field-tested positive and weighed 8.6 grams.
      Sgt. Mike Hughes reported at the time Valentin became “very confrontational, stating ‘you have no right to be in my house, you have no right to search my house.’ Officers then asked who rented the apartment and Scott said that she was the renter, as Valentin shouted ‘she has nothing to do with what I do.’”
      Valentin was charged with trafficking in drugs (cocaine) and endangering children.
      He entered a plea in Boardman Court of not guilty to the charges and was given an attorney appointed at public cost. He was bound over to a Mahoning County Grand Jury where he was indicted.
      Following his indictment, Valentin appeared in the Mahoning County Common Pleas Court of Judge R. Scott Krichbaum, where the endangering children charge was dropped, and the trafficking in drugs (cocaine) charge was reduced from a felony 3 to a felony 4.
      On June 22, 2016, Valentin entered a plea of guilty to the cocaine charge. Judge Krichbaum ruled that Valentin was “not amenable to a community control sanction and prison is consistent with the purpose and principles of the Ohio Revised Code” and ordered Valentin to serve eight months in jail.
      The record of the court also shows in May, 2014 that Valentin, when he was 18-years-old, faced a charge of trafficking in marihuana that was lodged by the Youngstown Police Department.
      He received a court appointed attorney on that charge and entered a plea of guilty on Oct. 1, 2014 and received no jail time, as Judge Lou D’Apolito ruled that a “non prison sanction will adequately punish Valentin and protect the public.”
      Valentin was sentenced to one year of community control, supervised by the Adult Parole Authority, and ordered to obtain a high school diploma, obtain employment, submit to random drug testing and obtain a driver’s license.
      On Sept. 1, 2015, Valentin’s parole officer, Brian L. Worrell informed the court that Valentin had failed to obtain a high school diploma, as well as employment.
  17 Graduating High School Seniors Awarded Edward J. DeBartolo Sr. Memorial Scholarships  
  May 25, 2023 Edition  
      Denise DeBartolo York and her husband, Dr. John York, co-chairs of the San Francisco 49ers and longtime education advocates, awarded 17 college scholarships worth $10,000 each to 17 graduating high school seniors in ceremonies held during a luncheon last week at the Lake Club.
      The presentations were made for the 26th straight year, continuing a tradition begun by Edward J. DeBartolo Sr., an America shopping mall pioneer, whose headquarters were located at Southwoods Dr. and Market St. Denise and John still maintain their offices today, in the same location.
      Gary O’Nesti served as master of ceremonies, while Mrs. York spoke briefly about the importance of education, and her father’s strong beliefs in higher education.
      “My father always believed that students who have worked hard to achieve their goals should have the opportunity to continue their education, regardless of their financial situation. The mission of the Edward J. DeBartolo Memorial Scholarship Foundation is to reward students who have proven themselves as leaders and role models in their schools and communities,: Mrs. York said.
      Dr. York then made presentations to the recipients.
      More than 300 applications were received by the foundation, and scholarship winners were determined by academic achievement, community involvement and financial need.
      Scholarship recipients included Devyn Tusinac, Boardman High School; Will Varley, Cardinal Mooney; Abbey McCabe, South Range; Kylee Kocanjer, Columbiana; Madelyn Ray, Poland; Ben Harrel, Poland; Caydin Barkerm Sebring; Sadie Barker, Sebring; Racelle Christy, Western Reserve; Lillian Dilts, Austintown; Emari Edmonds, Warren G. Harding; Kylee Fetkovich, Jackson Milton; Kelsey Hamm, Jackson Milton; Noah Minor, Lisbon; Abigial Rafferty, Girard; Jayme Richardson, Girard; and Mia Russomann, Chalker.
      To date, some $1.7 million in college scholarships have been awarded to graduating high school seniors.
  Boardman Police Department Achieves Full Compliance With Ohio Collaborative Law Enforcement Standards  
  Only 163 Agencies Fully Certified:   May 25, 2023 Edition  
      Ohio Gov. Mike DeWine has announced that 89% of Ohio’s population is now served by a law enforcement agency meeting or seeking to meet standards developed by the Ohio Collaborative Community-Police Advisory Board.
      There are approximately 900 law enforcement agencies in Ohio, and among them only 163 agencies are fully certified by the collaborative, including the Boardman Police Department.
      “Uniform standards for law enforcement increase the trust between the public and local agencies,” Boardman Police Chief and former FBI Special Agent Todd Werth said.
      The Boardman Police Department is certified in each of the five categories developed by the collaborative. They are---Group 1 (use of force, and hiring and recruitment); Group 2 (community engagement, body-worn cameras, and telecommunicator training); Group 3 (bias-free policing and employee misconduct); Group 4 (vehicular pursuits); and Group 5 (mass protests and agency wellness).
      Sgt. Michael Sweeney oversees The Boardman Police Department’s compliance with the collaborative’s standards.
  Mayhem Encore May 19 At Spartan Stadium  
  May 11, 2023 Edition  
     Boardman High School’s Rock Orchestra, Project Mayhem, will hold an encore performance–this time outdoors in Spartan Stadium--and will debut eight brand new songs never performed before by Mayhem. The new songs include a wide range of the best-ever hits from Billie Idol and Joan Jett, to Adele and Kelly Clarkson–even Jimmy Buffet and Frankie Valley. Tickets are now available for an outdoor Mayhem Concert set for Friday, May 19 at 8:00 p.m. There will be seating in the home stands and blanket-only lawn seats on the field. There is no limit to the number of tickets patrons can purchase. “Our March concert was sold out with more than 1,600 persons in attendance at the Boardman Performing Arts Center,” said Mayhem Music Director Bill Amendol. “The May 19, two-hour show will be a ‘Best Of Mayhem’ performance with more than 60 percent of the songs as new material from the indoor concert that we performed in March.” Tickets are $10 general admission. The public may purchase tickets at Boardman High School at the main front entrance on any school day between 8:00 a.m. and 3:00 p.m. Rain date for Mayhem is Saturday, May 20 at 8:00 p.m.
     
  Eligible Boardman Township Residents Can Receive $1500 To Support Sanitary Back Flow Installations  
  May 11, 2023 Edition  
     The ABC Water and Stormwater District announces a Sanitary Back-flow Assistance Program for Boardman Township residents.
      This program is a supplemental program based on the Mahoning County Sanitary Engineers Program.
      What is the Mahoning County Sanitary
      Engineer’s Backflow Control Program?
      Currently and since 2019, the Mahoning County Sanitary Engineer’s Department offers up to $3,600 for the installation of a backflow device that also requires property owners to remove any clear water source (footer drains and downspouts) from the sanitary sewer lines. This program is designed for property owners serviced by the Mahoning County Sanitary Engineer.
      How will the ABC District Program
      Work with the County Program?
      Any resident of Boardman Township who has already received funding from the County Program can submit documentation proving funding was obtained by the county, and upon review of the District can receive an additional $1,500. This would extend to anyone who as previously put in a backflow control devices from 2021 through 2023. This program will be initially funded with $50,000 and checks will be issued on a first come – first serve basis.
      How can I get these additional funds?
      Starting in May 2023, Boardman Township residents can stop into the Boardman Township Government Center at 8299 Market St., during regular business hours (8:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m.) with a copy of documentation from the Mahoning County Sanitary Engineer’s Office and complete a one page form.
      Once confirmed the ABC Water and Stormwater District will contact residents to pick up a check to receive $1,500.
  Eight HS Seniors Awarded Civic Association Scholarships  
  May 11, 2023 Edition  
     Eight high school seniors were honored as recipients of Boardman Civic Association $750 college scholarships during the civic organizations annual Academic Achievement Awards Dinner held at Boardman Park.
      Featured speaker at the event was Dr. Kelly Wilkinson, dean of the Youngstown State University Williamson College of Business.
      Scholarship recipients were Tyler Cherne, Daniel Csernik, Katelynn Kershaw, Gianna Pinciaro and Jacob Wolf, from Boardman High School; Maggie McGlone and Abigail Mitchell, Cardinal Mooney High School; and Maria Fusillo, Ursuline High School.
  Dairy Queen Owner: “We’re Trying To Be As Neighborly As We Can Be”  
  After Nearby Residents Complain The Business Is Impacting Their Privacy:   May 4, 2023 Edition  
     BY JOHN A. DARNELL JR.
      associate editor
      Addressing the Boardman Township Board of Trustees last week, Chrissy Smith, who operates a new Dairy Queen at 6532 Market St., at Brookfield Ave., with her husband, Ray, of 4400 Augusta Ct., Canfield, Oh., said the business plans to be as “neighborly as we can be.”
      During a Board of Trustees meeting held in early April, three residents who live near the ice cream store complained the business is impacting their privacy, and was also creating potential safety issues.
      Brian Perry, who lives in a home next to the Dairy Queen, told Trustees Tom Costello, Brad Calhoun and Larry Moliterno that parking lot lighting from the business shines into the home, loud music blares from the business intercom, and he and his family are constantly bothered with noise (including music blaring from cars) from patrons who use the drive-up order window.
      Another nearby resident, Dan Craig, of 6535 Glendale Ave., said traffic flows in the neighborhood have increased since the business opened.
      “It’s gotten to be a nuisance,” Craig said, adding motorists often fail to obey traffic signs and that creates potential safety issues, particularly for children.
      Craig noted “kids can’t play,” and during rainfalls, water from the Dairy Queen parking lot flows into Brookfield Ave.
      Perry’s wife, Meghan, added there are traffic jams in front of her home, adding “My house is not a home anymore.”
      On Apr. 4, the Boardman Township Zoning/Planning Department sent Mr. Smith a letter about landscape buffer requirements, noting “It looks like the landscaping has not been completed according to the plans that were submitted and approved by the Architecture Review Board.”
      Then Acting Zoning/Planning Director Marilyn Kenner told Mr. Smith “A dense landscape buffer is required along the property line when a commercial property borders a residential lot.
      “There should be a solid border of plantings, fencing, or a combination of the two along the entire property line. Your approved plans showed 20 pine trees along the west property line bordering 25 Brookfield Ave.
      “We believe there are currently 12 trees installed.
      “In lieu of adding more trees and other plantings along this property line, we would like to suggest adding a fence of 8-foot height instead.”
      Kenner added “Our office has also received numerous complaints about the volume of the drive-through speaker. Please turn down the volume so it is not as much of a nuisance to the surrounding parcels.”
      Trustee Brad Calhoun accented residents’ concerns, saying DQ patrons “can see into adjacent residences. Would you consider a fence to protect the integrity of the neighborhood?”
      Mrs. Smith responded claiming Boardman Township’s Site Plan Review Committee “put aesthetics before the integrity of the neighborhood.”
      Trustee Larry Moliterno replied, “You will decide if you want to be a good neighbor or not. We expect you to be respectful of the neighborhood.”
      Mrs. Smith did not respond to requests to erect a fence, and said more trees have been ordered.
  119th Annual Memorial Day Parade, Service Mon., May 29  
  May 4, 2023 Edition  
     The 119th annual Boardman Memorial Day Parade and Services will be held Monday, May 29, opening with a parade led by the Boardman High School Spartan Marching Band. The parade will begin at Center Intermediate School and head to market St., then turn down Boardman-Poland Rd. to Boardman Park.
      “The parade and memorial service (At the Outdoor Arts Theater in Boardman Park) honor those who have served, are serving, and those who gave the ultimate sacrifice while in military service to our country,” Kiwanian Mark Luke said.
      Organizations that would like to participate in the parade assemble at the Boardman Center Intermediate School at 9:00 a.m.
      Prior to the Parade, and starting at 9:00 a.m. is the Memorial Mile (a running road race) which follows the same route as the parade. Applications available at Chili’s, the D.D. and Velma Davis Family YMCA and Second Sole.
      As special feature of this year’s parade will be Boardman native LTC Christopher Dobozy, who will pilot a Blackhawk helicopter with a flyover of the parade, with plans to land in Boardman Park and participate in the memorial service.
      Keynote speaker this year at Boardman Park will be United States Congressman 6th District Bill Johnson.
      Rep. Johnson is a United States Air Force veteran.
      Lauren Johnson will lead the invocation and LTC Bill Moss, USAF retired, will lead the
      Pledge of Allegiance and place a wreath in honor of deceased veterans. The Boardman High School
      National Honor Society President will also place a wreath in honor of those currently serving military personnel.
      Luke will serve as Master of Ceremonies.
      Music for the service will be provided by The Boardman High School Wind Ensemble conducted by Tom Ruggieri, as well as the Boardman High School Chorus conducted by Linda Smrek.
      In the event of inclement weather, the Memorial Day Service will be held in the Boardman Park Community Center at 10:00 a.m.
      All veterans and community members are welcome to attend the memorial service to recognize, remember and express solemn thankfulness for the historical sacrifices of our military forces to preserve our way of life.
  Fryda Named To YSU Board of Trustees  
  May 4, 2023 Edition  
     Ohio Gov. Mike DeWine has named Richard C. Fryda, president and CEO of Compco Industries, to the Youngstown State University Board of Trustees. Fryda will serve a term that starts May 1, 2023, and runs through April 30, 2032. He replaces Dr. John Jakubek, whose term has expired. Beginning his career at Compco Industries in 1980, Fryda advanced to become Chief Operating Officer in 2004 and took over his current role as president and CEO in 2007. Fryda is responsible for leading a team that increased annual sales from $12 million in 2004 to approximately $120 million in 2022. Fryda is involved throughout the community, currently serving as a board member for Potential Development School for Autism, Counseling Center of Columbiana County and Youngstown State University’s Penguin Club, where he is currently serving as president. Previously he has served as a board member with Salvation Army Mahoning County, United Way of Youngstown & Mahoning Valley, Mahoning County Board of Developmental Disabilities, Boardman Community Baseball, and Boys & Girls Club of Youngstown.
  New Leadership At Boardman Park Addresses Board Of Township Trustees  
  Supt. Gabe Manginelli: “While we may be one park, it will not be a single vision leading us forward. We will be working as a team.”:   April 20, 2023 Edition  
     BY JOHN A. DARNELL JR.
      associate editor
      Meeting last week, Boardman Park Director Gabe Manginelli and Community Outreach/Recreation Director Karen McCallum addressed the Boardman Township Board of Trustees.
      Manginelli assumed the directorship of the park earlier this year following the retirement of longtime superintendent Daniel Slagle.
      “Moving forward, we will be working as a team,” Manginelli said, adding that he, McCallum and Office Manager Angela Davis will lead the park district.
      “Angela will help to insure that we maintain the conservative budgeting that we have been known for,” Manginelli said, adding “While we may be one park, it will not be a single vision leading us forward. We will be working as a team, in conjunction with the community to insure we deliver the recreational benefits it deserves.”
      The park director informed the Board of Trustees improvements will be made at the Maag Outdoor Arts Theatre, including installation of new restroom facilities and improved lighting for added safety of people in the park during night hours.
      Cost of the improvements is about $330,000 and Manginelli said the park district has received a $150,000 grant from Mahoning County Commissioners and a $25,000 donation from the Boardman Rotary Club in support of the improvement.
      He added another project will be the completion of waterproofing at historic Olde St. James Meeting House.
      “We have had an intermittent water issue and it has finally come to the point that we have to address it before larger issues occur,” Manginelli said.
      The park director noted preparations are already underway for Boardman Township’s annual Memorial Day observance, including work on flower beds and lawn clean-up.
      He added the grounds of the Southern Park Stables and Smith Homestead will be enhanced, and the park district is working on developing programming at the homestead.
      McCallum told the Board of Trustees the park district’s annual father-daughter dance held in February was sold-out for its five day run, and attendance has increased at senior citizen lunches at the Georgeanna Parker Activity Center, as well as Senior Citizen Fun Days at the Communiy Center.
      McCallum noted the annual Music in the Park concert series will open June 8 and run through Aug. 17.
      There will be fireworks displays at the park on July 8, as well as Sept. 9 when a Community Day celebration is held
      Manginelli said anyone who wants to learn about park program can call the district at 330-726-8107, or visit the web at https://www.boardmanpark.com
      In other matters at last week’s Board of Trustees meeting, CT Consultants was hired to provide engineering inspection services for the township’s 2023 road resurfacing program at a cost of $49,915.
      Road Superintendent Marilyn Kenner said cost of this year road resfuracing program will be approximately $1.9 million.
      Boased upon the recommendation of Police Chief Todd Werth, Trustees authorized the purchase of Emergency Medical Dispatch software, licensing and a training module from the APCO Insitute at a cost of $41,000.
      “This will equip and cerify the police department’s communication center with the ability to dispatch medical calls,” Chief Werth said.
      Trustee Tom Costello noted he was in attendance at recent ribbon cutting ceremonies fora $31 million expansion of the emergency room at Akron Children’s Hospital.
      Noting that ACH employs upwards of 500 people, Costello said the capital improvement project was “extremely impressive. To have that facility in Boardman Township is a blessing.”
      Music In The Park 2023 Concerts
      June 8..................................BHS 2K23
      June 15...............................Celebration
      June 22.........................Guys Without Ties
      July 6....................................Decades
      July 8..............(Independence Day Celebration)
      Salem Quaker City Band
      June 13...............................Del Sinchak
      July 20............Boardman High School Jazz Band
      July 23.....Y-town Area Community Concert Band
      July 27.............................Wrangler Band
      August 3....................Girard Swingtime Band
      August 10.........................John Reese Trio
      August 17..........................Dueling Pianos
     
  Demolition Of Market St. School Reveals Storm Water Flows Were Discharged Into Sanitary Sewers  
  April 20, 2023 Edition  
     It has taken less than three weeks to tear down old Market St. Elementary School, and the demolition work has revealed that storm water flows were discharged into sanitary sewers, especially during peak rainfall periods.
      Dating back more than 70 years, residents in the area have suffered flooding issues during peak rainfall periods.
      After the school is demolished then cleared of the debris, the site will be turned into a stormwater park, in an effort to address drainage concerns in the area.
      But the demolition of the old school has revealed some of the drainage issues may have been caused when it was discovered that the foundation of the school discharged storm water into the area’s sanitary sewer system.
      In addition, basement flooding in the old school was alleviated at some time in the past, but that water too was discharged into the sanitary sewer system.
      “Now that those problems have been discovered, they have been eliminated with the demolition of the school. Hopefully with less discharge into the sanitary system, some of the flooding issues will also be improved,” Township Administrator Jason Loree said this week.
  New DQ Not Neighborly To Neighbors  
  April 13, 2023 Edition  
     BY JOHN A. DARNELL JR.
      associate editor
      Meeting on Monday night, Boardman Township Trustees heard three residents who live near a new Dairy Queen at Brookfield Ave. and Market St. complain the business is impacting their privacy, and also creating potential safety issues.
      Brian Perry, who lives in a home next to the Dairy Queen, told Trustees Tom Costello, Brad Calhoun and Larry Moliterno that parking lot lighting from the business shines into the home, loud music blares from the business intercom, and he and his family are constantly bothered with noise (including music blaring from cars) from patrons who use the drive-up order window.
      Another nearby resident, Dan Craig, of 6535 Glendale Ave., said traffic flows in the neighborhood have increased since the business opened.
      “It’s gotten to be a nuisance,” Craig said, adding motorists often fail to obey traffic signs and that creates potential safety issues, particularly for children.
      Craig noted “kids can’t play,” and during rainfalls, water from the Dairy Queen parking lot flows into Brookfield Ave.
      Perry’s wife, Meghan, added there are traffic jams in front of her home, adding “My house is not a home anymore.”
      “I agree, you have lost your privacy,” acting zoning director Marilyn Kenner said, adding an effort will be made to get a fence erected between the Dairy Queen and the Perry’s residence.
      Kenner said a letter had been sent to the Dairy Queen requesting the volume be turned down on the intercom system at the business.
      Additionally, Kenner said the Ohio Department of Transportation would not allow an entrance to the Dairy Queen off Market St.
      “ODOT made the business close that entrance,” Kenner said.
      Trustee Larry Moliterno told the Perrys and Mr. Craig, “We recognize your problem, you have every right to be concerned.”
      A resident of Tippecanoe Rd., Melinda Rulli, complained about Mill Creek Park enlarging a parking lot, as well as adding a public restroom on Pinewood Dr. at Boardman-Canfield Rd., saying the project will invade the serenity of Pinewood residents.
      “People’s basic property rights are being violated,” Rulli said, noting the entrance to the parking lot will be off Pinewood Dr., a residential street.
      Joel Cohn, of 543 Pierce Dr. complained a guard rail had been removed from Lockwood United Methodist Church, allowing Pierce Dr. to now be used as a cut-through to Lockwood Blvd. crating traffic flow issues in that neighborhood.
      Noting the township has no authority to place guard rail to block a road, Trustees pledged to help Cohn with his concerns in any manner in which they can.
  BHS Mayhem Plays To Sell Out Crowd  
  March 30, 2023 Edition  
     THE BOARDMAN HIGH SCHOOL ORCHESTRA’S annual Project Mayhem played to a sold-out crowd of more than 1,200 persons last Friday at the Performing Arts Center. Keegan Kilpatrick’s performance of Creedance Clearwater Revival’s Lookin’ Out My Back Door was a real show-stopper at the concert. Pictured here are Catherine Oliver, at left in background, Kilpatrick, and Ivan Lindbergh, at right, in background.
  Township Operating Budget Of $22.841 Million Approved  
  Health Insurance Costs Could Increase By 20 Per Cent:   March 30, 2023 Edition  
     BY JOHN A. DARNELL JR.
      associate editor
      Meeting on Monday night, Boardman Township Trustees approved an operating budget of $22.841 million for 2023.
      The motion, proffered by Township Fiscal Officer William Leicht, read --- “Move to adopt the 2023 appropriations of $29.28 million by object code in accordance with the Ohio Revised Code
      “By adopting these appropriations, the Township Trustees (Larry Moliterno, Tom Costello and Brad Calhoun) are approving the operating budget for 2023 in the amount of $22.841 million.” It passed unanimously.
      A breakdown by departments appropriated for 2023 includes $9.84 million to the police department, $5.2 million to the fire department, $3.938 million to the road department, and $715,710 to planning/zoning.
      Boardman Township public employee wages are projected for 2023 at $11.031 million (up from actual wages paid in 2022 of $10.572 million); and 2023 benefits are projected at $5.09 million (up from $4.345 million in 2022).
      The Fiscal Office called attention to the rising costs of health insurance, noting the coverage cost Boardman Township $2.338 million in 2022, and that could increase to more than $2.971 million in 2023.
      “Health insurance represents a 20 per cent increase for 2023, based upon usage and trends of costs increasing.
      “As we get closer to renewal time, were can make better assumptions,” Fiscal Officer Leicht said.
  Woman Who Helped Transform Red Cross Was The Daughter Of A Man Born In Boardman  
  Mabel Thorp Boardman:   March 30, 2023 Edition  
     Since 1943, upon a proclamation of President Franklin Roosevelt, every March is recognized at National Red Cross Month.
      Did you know that a woman with ties to Boardman, Ohio helped to make the Red Cross what it is today.
      Mabel Thorp Boardman, daughter of William and Florence Boardman, began her service with the American Red Cross in 1901. Her grandfather, William, was born in Boardman, Ohio on Apr. 15, 1832.
      Mabel Thorp Boardman’s father was Henry Mason Boardman, a son of the founder of Boardman Township, Elijah Boardman.
      Henry Mason Boardman married Sarah Benham in 1818. He set out for Ohio to manage his family’s extensive land interests in the town founded by his father. He arrived in 1819, and, feeling for the lack of organized religion, organized the St. James Episcopal Church in 1820. When a pastor was unavailable, Boardman would serve as lay reader. Eventually, he would sponsor construction of a meeting house.
      The Boardman’s had one child, William, and spent the remainder of their lives in Ohio. On December 15, 1846, Henry was stepping into his carriage when his horse moved. He fell backward onto the seat, which was not fastened to the carriage, and subsequently landed on the ground. He was paralyzed from the neck down and died two days later.
      Henry’s son, William, moved to Cleveland and on October 12, 1860, Mabel Thorp Boardman was born there. Her Boardman-born father, William, was a lawyer and active in politics, was the grandson of the U.S. Senator Elijah Boardman. Her mother, Florence Sheffield, was the granddaughter of Joseph Earl Sheffield, who was a major benefactor of Yale University.
      Mabel Thorp Boardman was a socialite and she devoted time to many philanthropies.
      During the Spanish–American War in 1898 she was active in recruiting nurses.
      In 1900 her name appeared, apparently without her knowledge, as one of the incorporators on the application of the American Red Cross for a congressional charter. She accepted the involvement, secured a seat on the executive committee of the Red Cross, and began studying the work of international Red Cross groups. She quickly concluded that the leadership of the aging and autocratic Clara Barton was the root of public apathy about the Red Cross, and she began to agitate for change.
      In 1901 she was elected to the Executive Board of the American Red Cross and subsequently led the faction that ousted Barton from the presidency of the organization in 1904.
      Barton always took personal charge during major disasters. She gave the illusion of efficiency but was unable to build up a staff she trusted, and her fundraising was lackluster. As a result, she was forced out in 1904, when male professional social work experts took control and made it a model of Progressive Era scientific reform.
      They imposed a new corporate ethos of ‘managerialism,’ transforming the Red Cross away from Barton’s cult of personality to an ‘organizational humanitarianism’ ready for expansion along increasingly professional lines.
      Mabel Boardman refused formal chairmanship of the Red Cross, insisting that the occupancy of the conspicuous positions by men was necessary to retain public confidence. To that same end, she worked hard to develop support for the Red Cross among the socially prominent. By her indefatigable labors, the Red Cross accumulated a large endowment fund, established branches across the country, greatly improved its lifesaving, first aid, and other services (in part through hard-won cooperation with such groups as the American Nursing Association), and developed a readiness to respond quickly to disasters and military needs.
      In 1920, President Woodrow Wilson appointed Mabel Boardman to be the first and only woman member of the Board of Commissioners of the District of Columbia.
      From 1923 until 1944, Boardman served as the Director of the Red Cross’s Volunteer Service and overseeing its considerable expansion.
      She died on March 17, 1946, of a coronary thrombosis in Washington D.C.
      Compiled by Boardman News
      Associate Editor John A. Darnell jr
  Stormwater Park Will Be First Of Its Kind In Ohio  
  Demolition Of Market St. School Underway:   March 23, 2023 Edition  
     BY JOHN A. DARNELL JR.
      associate editor
      A stormwater park, believed to be the first of its kind in the state of Ohio, moved a step closer towards construction on Wed., Mar. 22 when the demolition of Market St. Elementary School, 5555 Market St., was begun.
      In 2019, the Boardman Local School Board closed the school that was the first ‘separate’ school building ever erected by the local, public school system. (Prior to its construction, all students in the Boardman Local Schools attended classes one building that is today Center Intermediate School).
      Market St. Elementary School opened in 1950. When it closed, Market St. Elementary School had an enrollment of 351 students, more than half of whom were deemed “economically disadvantaged” by the Ohio Department of Education.
      The closing of the school opened the door for the development of a 14.6-acre green space that will become the Forest Lawn Stormwater Park.
      Demolition work is expected to be completed within 60 days, depending on weather conditions. Bid for the demolition and site improvements was awarded by the ABC Water and Stormwater District to Gary Modarelli Excavating, of Poland Oh., at a cost of $147,000.
      Once excavation and site work is completed, the design concepts will be finalized by CT Consultants and the Davey Tree Resource Group. That portion of the project will be done with funding provided by a $300,000 grant provided by Ohio Gov. Mike DeWine’s office.
      The Forest Lawn Stormwater Park will be designed to improve drainage flows in the Cranberry Run watershed. Once completed, the park will provide improved surface water flows impacting up to 1,400 homes; and will include the creation of a passive park where people can gather and walk along a lighted sidewalk.
      During heavy rainfalls, the project will be able to hold up to the equivalent of 9-feet of water spread over the surface the size of a football field.
      In addition to the design funding, the stormwater park will be funded by a $1 million grant from Mahoning County Commissioners Anthony Traficanti, Carl Rimedio-Righetti and David Ditzler; a $2.167 million FEMA/Ohio EPA hazard mitigation grant, a $500,000 Capital Grant secured by Rep. Al Cutrona, and a $750,000 Ohio Capital Grant announced by State Rep. Cutrona and State Sen. Mike Rulli (phase 2 of the project that will include construction of an environmental center).
      In an agreement with the Boardman Local School Board, property for the stormwater park was formally transferred (donated) to the water and stormwater district in Apr., 2022.
      Township officials expect the Forest Lawn Stormwater Park will help solve a long-standing issue of flooding in the neighborhood during heavy rain events and improve water quality in the Anderson Run – Mill Creek watershed. The project involves the daylighting 700 ft. of a culverted stormwater system that runs underneath the property. The stream will be naturalized by creating a winding stream that flows through the 14-acre property. Floodplains will be created and native species planted. A walking path will be installed around the area and viewing platforms will be available to encourage watching wildlife that will be attracted to the natural area.
     
      PICTURED: ONCE DEMOLITION OF MARKET ST. ELEMENTARY SCHOOL is completed, a stormwater park will be created on the site. Above is an artist’s conception of the park that will be designed to help alleviate surface water flooding during peak rainfall periods. Total project cost is more than $3 million, with all funding provided through local, state and federal grant monies.
  Market St. Elementary School Was Built To Help Alleviate Overcrowding At The Old ‘Boardman School’  
  March 23, 2023 Edition  
     BY JOHN A. DARNELL JR.
      associate editor
      First-opened in 1950 to combat overcrowding at Boardman School (that at the time served students in first grade through high school), Market St. Elementary School closed its doors at the end of the 2019-19 school year in light of the district’s enrollment that has been declining for more than a decade.
      “While most may believe cost savings is the driving force behind the recommendation [to close the school], cost savings is not the only benefit, nor the greatest benefit,” said Supt. Tim Saxton. “Ultimately, we believe this move will help us provide greater educational services in a more efficient manner.”
      A news release about closing Market St. Elementary School, stated “The prospect of closing Market Elementary has been discussed in district-wide focus groups and strategic planning sessions that date back more than a decade. The school board believes now is the time to move ahead with that plan.”
      With the closing Market Street Elementary School, the remaining three elementary schools (Stadium Dr., Robinwood Lane and West Blvd.) became kindergarten through third grade buildings; and all fourth grade through sixth grade students in Boardman Local Schools were enrolled at Center Intermediate School; and Glenwood Jr. High School was tapped to service seventh and eighth grade students.
      History
      Market St. Elementary School was built with funding (a bond issue) approved by the electorate in the late 1940s.
      At that time, enrollment in the local school district reported enrollment growing at some 8 per cent annually. Amidst such growth in student population, Supt. Irvin J. Nisonger noted “The need for Boardman’s new, separate elementary school...being built on a 14-acre plat between Meadwobrook Ave. and Erskine Ave. is shown by the large number of children between the ages of five and seven-years-old in the school district.
      “The new elementary school at the north end of the township will absorb part of the overcrowding when the first six grades are opened there.”
      Although the school board projected cost of the new school to be $700,000, its construction was actually closer to $1 million.
      Among 19 firms that submitted bids to construct Market St. Elementary School, G.F. Howard Co. of Canfield was selected as the general contractor for the project at a cost of $557,501, a cost that was reported at the time at about $120,000 lower that the next lowest bidder.
      Other bids for the construction of the new school were taken for cafeteria equipment, plumbing, heating, and electrical work.
      “Despite its desire for economy, the school board is faced with the problem of providing adequate room, even at inflated prices, for the children of Boardman,” Supt. Nisonger said at the time, adding “The school will be one of the show places of Ohio, rating as perhaps the best of its kind in the state in physical equipment.”
      During the construction of Market St. Elementary School, then Boardman Trustees Fay C. Heintzelman, Howard Cherry and J. Donald Smith waived building permit fees for the project.
      “Collecting that fee, we felt, not only would be kind of double taxation, it would be diverting tax money from Boardman people which can be well used in building our new school,” Trustee Cherry said.
      At the time of its closing, Ohio Department of Education statistics claimed more than half of the students attending Market St. were “economically disadvantaged.”
  Dana Spring Concert Set For Mon., Mar. 27 At Boardman Methodist  
  March 23, 2023 Edition  
     YSU Dana School of Music will present the Dana Spring Choral Concert, “Love, Laugh, Longing, Harmony, and Praise,” as part of its Choral Masterworks Series on Monday, March 27 at 7:30 p.m. at the Boardman United Methodist Church. The featured ensembles will be the Dana Chorale, directed by Hae-Jong Lee, and Voices of YSU, directed by Adam Howard.
      The evening’s program includes some of the most enduring and beloved choral masterworks from the Renaissance to contemporary composers. Selections will consist of classics such as Thomas Morley’s ‘My bonny lass she smileth,’ an English madrigal, Palestrina’s ‘Sicut cervus,’ Brahms’ ‘Geistliches Lied,’ Faure’s ‘Cantique de Racine,’ Haydn’s ‘Awake, the Harp’ from the oratorio The Creation, and many more. The concert concludes with an uplifting song inspired by the West African saying, “It takes a village to raise a child.” The music embodies the cultural concept behind the proverb - all the individual parts are linked and working together to create and support the whole.
      Admission is free and open to the public.
  Kenneth Goldsboro Elected Chairman Of Potential Development  
  March 2, 2023 Edition  
Kenneth Goldsboro
     Kenneth Goldsboro, of Reserve Dr., Boardman, was elected chairman of Potential Development at the agency’s annual meeting held in February.
      Other officers include Deloran Thompson, vice president; James Houck, treasurer; and Linda Mansfield, secretary.
      “Potential Development is strengthened by those on our board. We look forward to the guidance and support these talented individuals will provide our school over the next three years,” said Paul Garchar, CEO.
      Garchar acknowledged outgoing chair, Sue Stricklin for her terms in office.
      Potential Development, founded in 1953, is a Pre-K through 12th grade school for children with autism. It provides a safe, structured educational environment with supportive services that gives students the necessary skills and independence to lead a productive life. In 2013, as Potential Development entered its 60th year of service, and expanded its services to include a high school.
  Trustees Approve Resolutions To Aid Development Of Stormwater Park  
  February 23, 2023 Edition  
     Meeting last week, Boardman Trustees Brad Calhoun, Larry Moliterno and Tom Costello adopted a resolution aimed at improving drainage in the township, saying they will cooperate with the ABC Water and Stormwater District “to efficiently provide stormwater drainage through the Cranberry Run stream area, that will include the proposed Forest Lawn Stormwater Park that is scheduled to be built on the property of the now vacant Market St. Elementary School, 5555 Market St.
      Construction of the stormwater park will begin after asbestos removal work is completed at the school. The removal work is supposed to be completed in late February, Trustee Costello said.
      The stormwater project is collaborative project funded by ABC District monies, federal and state grants, and a $1 million grant from the Mahoning County Commissioners.
      Trustees have designated Road Superintendent Marilyn Kenner as agent for mitigation grants submitted to the Federal Emergency Management Agency, as well as a state-local hazard mitigation grant.
      Goal of the proposed stormwater park is to alleviate high, surface water flows during peak rainfalls.
      In other matters---
      Trustees approved the purchase of four,2023 Ford police utility vehicles at a cost of $172,206.92 for user as unmarked police units, upon the recommendation of Police Chief Todd Werth.
      Based upon the recommendation of Kenner, Trustees approved the purchase of a 2023 Chevy Silverado for the Road Department at a cost of $40,800.
      Kenner also recommended a temporary easement be granted to the East Ohio Gas Co. at 5007 Southern Blvd. to allow for the construction of gas lines along Southern Blvd. Trustees okayed that request.
      The Township Trustees endorsed C-1 and C-2 liquor permit requests for the Garden Kettle, 8049 Market St.; and voted unanimously to not endorse a D-3 liquor permit request sought by the Ohio Sport Bar and Betting LLC, 5600 Market St.
      C-1 and C-2 permits allow carryout sales of beer and wine. A D-3 permit allows the consumption of high-proof liquor until 1:00 a.m.
      Trustee Moliterno and Administrator Jason Loree were appointed as Boardman Township’s representatives to the Mahoning County Tax Incentive Review Counsel.
     
  Speech/Debate Association Honors Boardman Coach Eric Simione  
  February 23, 2023 Edition  
     The National Speech & Debate Association announces that Eric Simione of Boardman High School is a recipient of the Diamond Coach Award, recognizing a professional career that combines excellence and longevity in speech and debate education. This is his fifth Diamond Award.
      To earn a Diamond Award, a coach must be a member of the National Speech & Debate Association for at least five years. Coaches earn additional awards with more points earned in the Honor Society. A coach who attains 15,000 points is awarded a first Diamond; they receive a second Diamond for 30,000 points, a third for 60,000 points, and so on. Five years must pass between each Diamond Award.
      “Our Diamond Award winners provide access to the life changing benefits of speech and debate for thousands of students,” said National Speech & Debate Executive Director J. Scott Wunn. “We are proud to recognize these educators for their service, and thank them for their hard work.”
      All Diamond Award winners will be recognized at the world’s largest academic competition, the National Speech & Debate Tournament, in Phoenix, Arizona in June 2023. More than 10,000 students, coaches, and parents from across the nation attend the National Tournament every year.
  Now 36-Years-Old, Mike Mannozzi Qualifies For Fourth Olympic Trials  
  February 23, 2023 Edition  
     BY JOHN A. DARNELL JR.
      associate editor
      More than a decade ago, Boardman High School graduate Mike Mannozzi was at a wrest-ling meet hosted by Kent State University where he gained entry as an ‘unattached’ wrestler. At the meet, he wore a hoody bedecked with a logo of YSU wrestling.
      YSU had dropped its wrestling program, but wearing the singlet with the YSU logo opened a door for Mannozzi to attend Notre Dame College in South Euclid, Oh. when a father of a Kent State wrestler approached Mannozzi, and inquired about YSU not having a wrestling program.
      Mannozzi explained he was seeking an opportunity to wrestle at the collegiate level and was actively in contact with multiple colleges after unsuccessfully trying to revamp the program or start a wrestling club at YSU.
      Mannozzi immediately researched Notre Dame, set up a campus tour, visited and signed his letter of intent within 90 days. His timing could not have been more perfect as he was part of the inaugural recruiting class for wrestling and was one of over 65 wrestlers to enter the program.
      “When I first went to a wrestling practice, I learned I was the only member of our team who had never competed in a state championship meet,” Mannozzi recalls. “It was daunting.” He stuck with the program and was one of only 24 wrestlers to return to the program for its second year, despite posting just a 4-12 record in his first season on the college mats.
      Believing he could be better in another sport, Mannozzi had a burning desire to compete in cross country and track and field.
      His focus on running was met with doubt and questioned by many, especially the Notre Dame cross-country coaching staff that required approval to switch sports from the school’s wrestling coach, and also mandated that Mannozzi be able to keep up with the runners on the team.
      Notre Dame’s head mat coach, Frank Romano, okayed the move and it was the beginning of the now 36-year-old’s career as a race walker.
      In his first competitions, Mannozzi wasn’t that good, often times finishing his events at the back of the field. Showing persistence, he began to improve, eventually becoming a scoring member of the Falcons varsity team in every race.
      His college coaches reminded him that he was “not a bad runner for a wrestler.” In track, he competed in the 800 meter run, and threw the javelin, although they were not events in which he showed much promise.
      His javelin coach, Dave Bellar, asked Mannozzi if he was willing to try the race walk.
      Knowing nothing about racewalking, Mannozzi accepted the offer and turned his attention to racewalking.
      After becoming Notre Dame’s first walk- on to qualify for national competition, his scholarship was changed from wrestling to cross country, and indoor and outdoor track and field.
      Despite being a back-up on a national championship wrestling team with a paltry 4-12 record, Mannozzi applied the mental fortitude and discipline honed during his time as a grappler to help him persevere in race walking, and despite finishing last in his first race in 2008.
      Just a year later, his dedication and hard work paid off. He won his first race collegiate race walk.
      Then in 2010, something magical happened---Mannozzi competed in the 2010 NAIA national racewalking championships in Johnson City, Tenn. at Eastern Tennessee State University. Trailing by at least 80 meters on the final lap of the race, the former Erskine Ave., Boardman resident surged to take first place in the race, including defeating the defending national champ.
      After graduation in 2011, he didn’t give up on his racewalking career and competed in meets at venues all across the world, becoming known in his sport as ‘The Italian Stallion,’ first qualifying for a spot in the U.S. Olympic Trials in 2011 where he also finished 12th in the Pan Am Games. Despite strong performances finishing 9th and 5th respectively in the 20k and 50k race walks, he didn’t reach his goal of making the cut to be on the 2012 U.S. Olympic team
      Following that, he went on to win the 1-mile racewalking title at the prestigious Millrose Games in 2012, as well as competing in the 2013, 2015 and 2017 Pan Am Cups, 2014 World Cup, and World Racewalking Team Championships in Italy in 2016.
      In 2017, he became the first student-athlete in track and field to be inducted into the Notre Dame Hall of Fame, while also being the first to be inducted as part of two different sports in the same ceremony, as he was part of the 2010 national championship wrestling team.
      In 2019, Mannozzi enlisted in the United States Air Force where his first duty assignment was at Wright Patterson Air Force Base in Dayton, Oh. He was up early in the mornings while there, at 4:00 a.m., practicing his racewalking before he assumed his duties as part of the Chaplain Corps, where he was a Religious Affairs Airman while also competing as a race walker for the Air Force.
      In 2020, he gained recognition as the Air Force Male Athlete of the Year.
      Including his time in college, as a civilian and as a military member, Mannozzi is now an 18-time USA national champion in various distances and events in racewalking.
      At 36-years-old, married and the father of two children, Mannozzi still hasn’t given-up on his Olympic dreams.
      Now stationed in San Diego, Calif., he is a full-time athlete for the Air Force and in Jan., 2023 he qualified for next year’s 2024 racewalking Olympic trials in the 35K distance (21.75 miles). It will be his fourth try at making the United States Olympic team. At the qualifying meet, he finished eighth, walking the 35 kilometers in a time of 3:18.41, overcoming a torn adductor and not being able to train every day.
      “Getting assigned to the World Class Athlete Program (WCAP) as an Air Force athlete is a dream for me---I now have the opportunity to train with the most U.S. Olympic racewalkers in one location. Qualifying for the for a fourth consecutive trials is wonderful!” Mannozzi said.
      Truly an underdog story, ‘The Italian Stallion’ hasn’t given up on his Olympic dreams
     
      PICTURED: NEVER GIVING UP ON HIS DREAMS, Boardman native Mike Mannozzi qualified for his fourth racewalking Olympic Trials in the 35K event that will be held next year. Mannozzi now competes for the United States Air Force where he is now stationed in San Diego, Calif. and is a member of the World Class Athlete Program. He is pictured crossing the finish line in a qualifying event held in January in Santee, Calif.
  BOARDMAN PARK’S 19th Annual Father-Daughter Dance  
  February 16, 2023 Edition  
     BOARDMAN PARK’S 19th annual Father-Daughter Dance opened last weekend at the Lariccia Family Community Center to a sellout crowd. Among those in attendance was Glenwood Jr. High School Principal Bart Smith, pictured with his daughters, Bella, at left; and Lia, at right.
  Veteran Detective To Investigate 1975 Death Of 13-Year-Old Boy Found Frozen In Crestline Backyard  
  David Evans Was Reported Missing On Jan. 18. His Body Was Found Four Days Later.:   February 16, 2023 Edition  
     BY JOHN A. DARNELL JR.
      associate editor
      Following DNA testing that resulted in naming the killer of 13-year-old Bradley Bellino 50 years ago, Boardman police are now considering their options into advanced DNA testing in an effort to determine what caused the death of 13-year-old David Evans in 1975.
      Bellino’s body was found in a dumpster behind the Boardman Plaza on Apr. 4, 1972. Three weeks ago, Boardman police announced that DNA testing had determined his likely killer was a man named Joseph Norman Hill, formerly of 151 Shadyside Dr. in Boardman. Hill was 32-years-old at the time, and police say his family relocated to southern California about six years later.
      Following the death of his wife, Bonita, in 1993, Hill became estranged from his remaining family and lived in various places in California until he died on July 3, 2019 in Yusiapa, California of senile degeneration of the brain. To date, there is a paucity of information about Hill’s life in California, except one claim he was charged in 1986 with solicitation of a lewd act.
      David Evans lived at 208 Ridgewood Dr. in Boardman, and on Jan. 18, 1975 at 2:10 a.m., his father reported his son, a diabetic, was missing. The boy’s frozen body was found four days later in the rear yard of a home on Crestline Place, near the intersection of Rt. 224 and Market St.
      Like the Bellino death investigation, efforts to determine what happened to David Evans have been ongoing for nearly five decades, and now veteran Boardman police detective, Sgt. Mike Hughes, has been named the lead investigator on the case. Hughes has been a Boardman police officer for three decades, serving the department for many years as head of its Narcotics Enforcement Unit (NEU).
      The Story of David Evans
      The Evans family moved to Boardman’s Ridgewood Estates in 1976 from Lakewood, New York in New York State’s southwestern tier, by Lake Chautauqua.
      Interviewed by legendary local writer, Janie S. Jenkins a week after David went missing, his parents, Peter and Gracia, said the family moved to Boardman, in part because the local school system offered what their children needed.
      At school in western Ney York, David was described as a self-conscious lad who was often the subject of ‘verbal harassment’ from his schoolmates. He was born with a deformity that resulted in one hand with two fingers and a thumb, and more narrow than the normal hand---He also had an operation to correct eye muscles when he was six, and at the age of nine was diagnosed with diabetes.
      “The other children in New York were not kind about it,” the parents told Ms. Jenkins.
      In Boardman, David played in Boardman Little League for longtime coach Rudy Granito. He learned to catch using his deformed hand to catch the ball without the glove falling off, spending hours bouncing the ball from his house roof into the mitt. He was an ‘A-B’ student as a seventh grader at Center Middle School, where he was a member of the band. He went to the YMCA and liked model airplanes.
      Mr. Granito told police that David was not the kind of boy who would get into a car with somebody that he didn’t know.
      “He was shy...picky with his friends and did not just mingle with anybody...He was a more grown-up boy that some of the boys on our team,” Granito told police.
      His father told Ms. Jenkins his son had “a fierce determination to succeed in everything, from studies to athletics, and that was the result of having ‘to excel to overcome’ the diabetes, eye surgery and malformed left hand.” He also said his son wasn’t ‘a hanger-outer’ and had been taught to let his parents know where he was going after school, or after a game, and he always did.”
      A Boardman Police Department report taken at 12:10 a.m. by Ptl. George Statler on Jan. 18, 1975 provided the first notification that David Evans could be missing, when his father said his son had not been seen for six hours.
      David was last seen near the intersection of Withers Dr. and Market St. about 6:00 p.m. on Jan. 17, an area where the stocking hat he was wearing was later found in the snow. His father said he thought David was walking home and told Ptl. Statler his son “never had any problems at home, nor had he been depressed,
      “Mr. Evans then stated ‘David is a diabetic’ and needed a shot once every day.”
      Within 20 minutes of the information, Boardman police scoured the Ridgewood Estates neighborhood, nearby Lake Forest Cemetery, as well as Boardman Lake area---then the Boardman Plaza, Southern Park Mall, Boardman High School, and two middle schools
      “Many dumpsters were looked-in, all of the night coffee shops and restaurants were checked,” Capt. Harry VandenBosch said. Information in the missing boy, as well as his need for insulin was provided to all area law enforcement agencies. The Ohio National Guard provided a helicopter to assist in the search.
      On Jan. 23, 1975, Boardman police were notified a body had been found in the back yard of a home on Crestline Place. David Evans was found---laying on his back in below-freezing temperatures, without the stocking cap his father said he had been wearing.
      One day after the body was found, Mahoning County Deputy Coroner Dr. William A. Johnson ruled an “investigation developed no element of criminality” into Evans’ death, and the immediate cause of death as a diabetic coma.
      County Coroner Dr. Nathan Belinky said “since David’s death was caused by diabetic coma, and there were no physical findings serious enough to cause traumatic death.”
      The ruling was made, despite strong objections from Ptl. Steve Balog, who was on the scene of the discovery of the body.
      As Balog and others argued, the body of David Evans showed fractures to his left radius and ulna were suffered after he died, as well there was a puncture wound in his lower back, also incurred after death. Assistant Coroner Johnson also noted the were “multiple abrasions” on the child’s face, including left eyebrow, right chin and earlobe, and upper part of his back.
      “How could the boy suffer broken bones after he was dead,” Capt. Balog and others opined.
      Despite the coroner’s findings, then Boardman Police Chief Grant L. Hess asked the Ohio Bureau of Identification (BCI) to process an ‘Inventory of Evidence’ that included the clothes Evans was wearing, “slides” of fingernail scrapings and a surveyor’s stake.
      “We are particularly interested in any evidence of semen, blood, hair samples, fibers or other particulars,” Hess said.
      On Feb. 3, BCI Identity Technician Charles Barna told Hess his examination found “no seminal fluid or blood on Evans’ clothing; hair,” however he did find red and white fibers and orange paint particles on Evans’ shoes, and a hair was found on the jacket the boy had been wearing. A button was also missing from the jacket he was wearing.
      “The red and white nylon fibers could be from a blanket or a carpet,” Barna said, noting the greatest concentration of material on the shoes was “on the back of the heel, as though he was drug.” Barna also said the sole of a shoe “appeared sticky.” He also noted a tire track had been located near where the boy’s body had been found, but was “as yet unidentified.”
      Late in the evening on Jan. 24, 1975, a woman called police saying she was in a parking lot of a dance studio on the night Evans was first reported missing. The parking lot abutted the property where Evans’s body was discovered.
      The woman said she pulled into the parking lot about 7:00 p.m. and believed she observed a “red, full-sized auto back up to the embankment, near where Evans’ body was found,” Ptl John Rosensteel said.”
      According to a report filed by Rosensteel, the woman said a white man wearing a tan windbreaker exited the car, “looked around and then tossed something over the embankment.
      “She observed the man return to his car, flip the front seat forward and flash a light around the back seat.”
      The woman gave police what she believed was the first several letters and numbers on the car’s license plate. Several years later, attempts were made to match the license plate with a red car, to no avail.
      As for the stocking cap found the night of David’s disappearance in the area of Market St. and Withers Dr.---On Jan 28, Ptl. William Laubenheimer said that he received a call from an anonymous man who said sometime between 6:00 p.m. and 6:30 p.m. on Jan. 17, someone had observed a man and a boy in a struggle near Market St. and Withers Dr., during which both got into a black car.
      Boardman police never closed their files on the Evans case, and as in the death of Bradley Bellino, tracked down potential suspects throughout much of the eastern United States; and as was the case in the Bellino investigation, to no avail.
      Sometime after his son’s death, Peter Evans received a letter in the mail from an inmate in an Ohio Penitentiary in which the inmate claimed to know his son’s killer, who was also in the same jail and had talked about the crime.
      After lengthy exchanges of letters, on July 26, 1988 BPD Capt. Steve Balog (who as a patrolman found Evans body) and Det./Lt. Robert Rupp travelled to Lucasville Prison to interview the inmate.
      “After listening to the facts of the case that he was aware of, it became evident that his knowledge of the case is extremely limited,” Capt. Balog said.
      Current Investigation
      Det./Sgt. Michael Hughes is hopeful that new and enhanced DNA testing could lead law enforcement to a suspect in the Jan., 1975 death of David Evans, as it did in the Bellino investigation; and anyone with information can call him at 330-726-4144.
      Bellino Investigation
      In the Bellino investigation, certain evidence in an effort to obtain DNA samples was sent by Boardman Det. Ben Switka to BCI on Sept. 19, 2017 for analysis that concluded that semen had been identified on pants that Bellino was wearing, and on Jan. 11, 2018, DNA was obtained from one of the boy’s femur bones. Then on Nov. 1, 2022, evidence sent by BPD Det. Rick Kridler contained another DNA standard.
      DNA that showed Joseph Norman Hill as a 98 percent match for the DNA found on Bellino’s body.
      A 100 percent match was not possible because Hill was cremated after his death and had no DNA on record to test, Boardman police Capt. Albert Kakascik said, adding a forensic scientist with the Bureau of Criminal Investigation was comfortable agreeing it was Hill’s DNA that was found on Bellino’s pants.
  San Francisco 49ers CEO Jed York Headlines Mooney’s 30th Hall Of Fame Event  
  February 9, 2023 Edition  
Jed York
      San Francisco 49ers CEO Jed York, 43, son of John and Denise York, is among 14 persons set for induction into the Cardinal Mooney Hall of Fame in ceremonies that will be held Sat., Feb. 18 at the Lake Club.
      York is a 1999 graduate of Cardinal Mooney, where he was captain of the baseball team and served as senior class president.
      He grew-up with the Niners, under the wings of his grandfather, Edward J. DeBartolo, and Mr. DeBartolo’s son, Eddie, and daughter, Denise.
      Since Denise’s father, Edward J. DeBartolo Sr., purchased the 49ers in 1977, she has been an integral part of four decades of 49ers football, including more than 50 playoff contests and five Super Bowl victories.
      In 2000, Denise and her husband, John, assumed control of the Niners and their eldest son, Jed, now carries on the family’s legacy.
      As chief executive officer of the San Francisco 49ers, Jed York oversees all aspects of the organization. Now in his 18th year with the team and 13th as CEO, York has been a driving force behind the 49ers success on and off the field during that time.
      During York’s tenure, the team has experienced great success having won four NFC West Division titles (2011, 2012, 2019, 2022), advanced to six NFC championship games (2011, 2012, 2013, 2019, 2021 and 2022) and two Super Bowls (Super Bowl XLVII and Super Bowl LIV).
      In Oct., 2017, York was the feature of an interview with the National Museum of America History, excerpts of which follow--
      “Sports is a platform that can help make our country a better place; I will fight for that,” Jed York says.
      “As a kid, I played baseball, soccer, basketball, everything. There was a lot of going into the woods and fishing. I was a student council president and captain of my baseball team. I loved the camaraderie and the physicality of sports.
      “My dad is a doctor. His family is German, Pennsylvania Dutch and Polish. His great-great-grandfather was an indentured servant, as was his great-great-grandmother. They met in Pennsylvania and still had several years of servitude left, so they ended up skipping town to (Musgokee) Oklahoma and changed their name to York.
      “My mother was a great mom and homemaker, but also vice president of her father’s corporation. Her family is Italian from Naples and the Abruzzi region. We keep the Italian tradition of getting together over meals often and there is a lot of ‘over-feeding’ people.”
      Jed says “It was unique for me, growing up in Youngstown, with the family’s sports team in San Francisco. My parents’ rule was that we could go to any game, but we had to go to school the next day. We would go to the away games in Washington, New York, New Orleans or Atlanta. We knew that we were fortunate to be able to do that, but we also knew there was a work ethic required in order to prepare for school the next day.
      “We would probably go to 20 Pittsburgh Penguins games a year. As an owner and president of the team, my mom was one of the first and only women to have her name engraved on the Stanley Cup.
      “For my mom, hard work wasn’t just going to the office and putting in a full workday, it was putting in work with her family too. She was an unbelievable mother, getting us out the door for school, going to work, gathering us back up, and cooking five nights a week, at least, for her family and for her father. She did so much on both ends of the spectrum.
      “And I think the biggest thing that I have learned from my mom is that you can work very hard in your day job, but you can work very hard at home too. And I try to bring that sort of reality to my life.”
      On The Family Legacy at Notre Dame
      And Building the 49ers
      “My grandfather, Edward DeBartolo Sr., grew up in Youngstown. He was a smart kid but didn’t really enjoy school, so he would help his stepfather with a lot of construction jobs. His mother came to him one day and called him the Italian word “chooch,” meaning idiot, for not wanting to go to college.
      “So he packed up his stuff, and they sent him on a train to South Bend, Indiana. Turns out, Notre Dame doesn’t just accept you because you show up at their doorstep. So he ended up attending community college in South Bend while working construction, until he made his way into Notre Dame. He finished college at the top of his class.
      :That experience got him to see the world beyond Youngstown, Ohio. I was honored when my grandfather gave me his graduation ring when I made my First Communion.
      “His son, Eddie Jr., went to Notre Dame too, and his daughter, my mother, went to Saint Mary’s [College], the all-girls school. She met my father at a blind-date party at Notre Dame and they went on to get married. I was the first person of the next generation to go to Notre Dame.
      “My uncle, Eddie Jr., is in the NFL’s Hall of Fame, and he is an icon in the game. I think he really changed what it meant to be an owner.
      “He just had such passion. He took care of people. He ran the 49ers from ’77 to ’99, and his hallmark was making a family culture out of the team. I’ve tried to live up to that legacy that he started. This means really taking care of the folks that work for you and making it more than just a transactional partnership. I want to make sure people feel like they’re at home and they have a family at the 49ers.
      Football is a Reflection of American Life
      “Football is a very complicated sport. There are so many things that revolve around success, and it’s not related to one specific person. Even if you have the best player in the league, that doesn’t mean you have the best team. The more that you understand the nuances of football, you can see how special it is.
      “In American sports stadiums, people from all walks of life come together for a few hours to share in the drama and excitement of live sporting events.
      “It is the daily grind of it — the ‘three yards and a cloud of dust.’ The grind of the offensive linemen---they’re so very important, but the joke is, ‘You don’t know an offensive lineman’s name, until they make a mistake and somebody sacks the quarterback.’ They are the day-to-day workers that you see in America.
      “You have the quarterback with everything on his shoulders. When you win, it’s the quarterback; when you lose, it’s the quarterback. And that is like your titans of industry, your senators, your presidents---the people who get all of the credit or all of the blame, even though there are so many other people that helped. And then you have receivers and running backs; they are sort of in the middle class.
      “So the football field has everything. All different walks of life come together, and I think that’s powerful for people.
      “There’s never a perfect game in football. There’s always a mistake somewhere. But what do you do with it? How do you get better from the mistakes that you made in the first quarter? What is so beautiful about the game of football is that you can call the right play, and everything can seem to be working out, but somebody can drop the ball. I think that’s life in general.”
      Football Team Pennant
      Fans purchase a wide range of pennants, souvenirs, jerseys, and other products to proclaim their allegiance to their favorite teams.
      “I look at the stadium today as sort of the last bastion of that town square, where you don’t know who you’re sitting with; you don’t know who else is there, but we’re all here together for a common purpose, Jed said/
      “When we built Levi Stadium, we wanted it to be a dedication to what makes the Bay Area great. We wanted it to be an outdoor experience and a forward-thinking stadium. It is a software-driven stadium. We built a green roof on our suite tower, which highlights our commitment to sustainability. We are the only stadium in the northern hemisphere that’s net neutral to the grid for all of our home games.
      “We also wanted to convey a historical feel for the team because we’ve been one of the most prominent teams in sports, and we want to celebrate it. We have our heroes front and center. We’ve built life-size statues of them. You can actually go take a picture next to Bill Walsh’s statue or Joe Montana’s statue or Ronnie Lott. We also have the “Star Wars” wall, where anybody that’s played for the 49ers, even for just one game, is highlighted on the wall. You want to preserve the history of the 49ers. These are all the people that have suited up and have contributed to the 49ers.”
      Football as a Platform for Conversation
      And Social Justice Awareness
      “We want to use our platform as a sports team to do more than just win games. We want to help the community. I’m proud of our STEAM [Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts, and Mathematics] education program, which inspires young kids to learn. We want it to be an accessible program for all of the area’s youth so we cover the cost of transportation and make sure that they have a good meal during their visit.
      “Some of our efforts in the community aren’t always well-received by everybody. We have players right now that have been taking a knee during the anthem and protesting. I wouldn’t take a knee during the anthem; that’s not my stance.
      “But we live in America, where the First Amendment is very, very important to me, and I think it’s important to back our players when they’re trying to gain awareness for social justice causes. We are trying to help our guys bring that message front and center and actually make progress in social justice awareness.
      “It certainly isn’t popular with everybody. But sports is a platform that can help make our country a better place. I will fight for that. I’ll fight with our players for that. We have so much impact as a professional football team that we actually can help shift people’s views on diversity, on race, on social issues in America — topics that we don’t talk about. And I think we can help America become a better place by raising awareness to those issues.
      Mooney’s 30th Hall of Fame Class
      In addition to York, other inductees into Mooney’s 30th Hall of Fame Class are four-time state champ head football coach P.J. Fecko, former pro golfer Jon Hamarik and former NLF player and Kent State graduate Ismaa’lly Kitchen are among 14 persons who will be inducted during ceremonies set for Sat., Feb. 18 at the Lake Club. Allso set for induction are Ray Allen, football; Sean Finnerty, cross country; Jonathan Italiano, football; Melissa (Larose) Austin, softball; Alicia (Hehr) Stefanski, volleyball; David Ciccone, baseball; Derrell Johnson Koulianous, football; Michael Philibin, football; Christo Frangopoulos, soccer and Marissa (Simon) Howell, soccer. The event begins at 6:00 p.m. with induction ceremonies set to begin at 8:00 p.m. Tickets are available at CardinalMooney.com/events; or call Sue Brandenstein at 330-788-5007.
     
  School With 77 Students, Just Three Teachers Gets $100,000 Grant For Safety And Security Upgrades  
  Mahoning County High School:   February 9, 2023 Edition  
     Last week, Ohio Governor Mike DeWine announced that more than 900 schools will receive state funding support for physical safety and security upgrades as part of the latest round of Ohio’s K-12 School Safety Grant Program.
      Among the schools receiving the funding is the Mahoning County High School, 940 Bryn Mawr Ave., in Youngstown, Oh., that received a $100,000 grant for the safety and security upgrades. According to the school’s website, 77 students attend classes at the Mahoning County High School, that employs three, full time teachers.
      By comparison, Campbell Memorial High School, that has an enrollment of 377 students, received the same grant award, for $50,000.
      According to Gov. DeWine’s office, Boardman Local Schools, with an enrollment of 3800 students, has received $279,014 in K-12 School Safety Grant Program monies; and Cardinal Mooney High School, with an enrollment of some 400 students, received $98,071 from the same program.
  DNA EVIDENCE LEADS BOARDMAN POLICE TO SUSPECTED KILLER OF BRAD BELLINO  
  On Apr. 4, 1972, A Body Found In A Dumpster At The Boardman Plaza Was Identified As 12-Year-Old Brad Bellino:   January 26, 2023 Edition  
     BY JOHN A. DARNELL JR.
      associate editor
      Boardman police believe they have solved a 50-year-old murder case, the death of 12-year-old Brad Bellino, son of the late Joseph and Elissa Bellino-Pascarella, of 61 McClurg Rd., whose body was found in a dumpster behind an Isaly’s Dairy store in the Boardman Plaza on Apr. 4, 1972.
      A coroner’s report said the boy had been strangled and sexually assaulted.
      According to police reports from 1972, Bellino was at the home of a friend on Teakwood Dr. in Applewood Acres on Fri., Mar 31 when he supposedly left the home in the evening to walk to his house on McClurg Rd.
      He never showed-up and the following day, and not until 3:30 p.m., Bellino was reported missing to police.
      Then, sometime around 8:00 p.m. on Tues., Apr. 4, the boy’s lifeless body was found in a dumpster behind the Isaly Dairy store in the plaza. A belt (from JCPenney) was found strapped around his neck. The strap bore teeth marks; and body fluid, not Bellino’s, was later discovered on the boy’s pants.
      The body was taken to South Side Hospital in Youngstown, and a post mortem exam was conducted by Mahoning County Coroner Dr. David A. Belinky. His report listed Brad’s time of death at 9:00 p.m. on Saturday, April 1, more than 24 hours after he was last confirmed to be seen.
      Also, the day the boy’s body was found, it was the first day on the job of newly-named Police Chief Dave Hartsock. Not only did his department have to deal with the boy’s death, but on the same day an organized crime figure, Randall Good, 24, was killed when his car was blown-up at an apartment building on Shields Rd.; also resulting in injuries to his 18-year-old wife, Debra, and a 22-year-old man named Salvatore Pizzulo.
      Spanning through police chief’s Hartsock, Grant L. Hess, Roy Fink, James McBride, Bill Walters and Glenn Bowers (who served until 2000), local police continued their investigation into the Bellino murder, following hundreds of tips and traveling around the United States to check on leads, to no avail.
      In 2000, Jeffrey Patterson was named chief upon Bowers’ retirement and he renewed the investigation into the Bellino murder, when the boy’s body was exhumed at Green Haven Memorial Park in Austintown in 2001. His clothes were sent to the Ohio Bureau of Criminal Investigation’s forensic laboratory, and a DNA profile was obtained.
      “Over the years, numerous, potential suspects were checked against the DNA sample, and also through the Combined DNA Index System (CODIS) database, with negative results,” current Police Chief Todd Werth told The Boardman News.
      In Dec., 2018, Capt. Albert Kakascik approached Chief Werth, expressing an interest in continuing the DNA investigation into Bellino’s death.
      Then, in Jan., 2019, at Chief Werth’s recommendation, Boardman Trustees approved $3,500 to conduct snapshot genetic genealogy analysis of DNA evidence, body fluids, that had been obtained from the crime scene, in conjunction with Parabon Nanolabs, of Reston, Va.
      Capt. Kakascik was assigned to revisit the case and began work to facilitate the use of familial DNA testing and genetic genealogy related to the DNA sample (body fluids) found on the Bellino boy.
      “Capt. Kakascik took the initiative in this case, and overcame many obstacles in bringing this case to a conclusion,” Chief Werth said.
      Over the next four years, DNA samples of persons identified by Parabon as potential suspects were checked by Boardman police, again without a positive results---until in December, 2022, when a sample resulted in a positive identification of a man whose DNA was found on Bellino, and who is now considered as the boy’s killer.
      He has been identified as Joseph Norman Hill, who resided at 151 Shadyside Dr. in Boardman at the time of the murder. According to police, he was 32-years-old when Bellino was murdered.
      “We believe there is sufficient evidence to present to a grand jury if Hill was alive, and that it would lead to his indictment,” Chief Werth said.
      According to Capt. Kakascik, Hill moved to California about six years after the Bellino murder and died there on July 3, 2019 in Yusiapa, (San Bernadino County), California. Reportedly, Hill was arrested on a charge of solicitation of a lewd act in 1986 in Los Angeles, Calif., while living in San Bernadino County, Calif., however details of that case are not currently available, or have been purged from police records. Hill reportedly worked as a truck driver while living in California.
      Records obtained by The Boardman News show that Hill filed a marriage license application when he was 19-years-old, listing his address as 336 Grant St., Youngstown, Oh. His future wife is listed as Bonita Powell, 21, of 1130 Wick Ave., Youngstown, Oh. She died on Oct. 31, 1993, in Anaheim, Calif.
      At the time of his marriage license application, he listed his occupation as a “bottle washer,” and was his future wife was employed as a “secretary.”
      The marriage license application says his father was deceased at the time of his marriage, and his mother’s maiden name was Mildred Ridel. Another document obtained by The Boardman News says that Hill’s mother died in Youngstown on Aug. 22, 1973, and her name was then Mildred Minehart.
      Sources indicate the Hills had at least one son.
      “The was a significant amount of work done on this case by the Boardman Police Department and other agencies in the area,” Chief Werth said. “Investigators (including Det. Robert Rupp) followed-up on several hundreds of leads, not only at the start of the investigation, but as information and potential tips came in over the years.
      “The work in 2001 to obtain the DNA sample was a key aspect of the investigation that led to identifying Hill as the subject in the death of Bradley Bellino over 50 years ago,” Chief Werth said.
      Cost of the DNA work, according to Chief Werth, was $29,000.
      “We have notified the family and our hope is that after 50 years, knowing who is responsible for Bradley’s death can bring some sort of closure to his family and friends,” Chief Werth said.
      Anyone who may have information about Hill while he resided in Boardman can contact the Boardman Police Department (Chief Werth or Capt. Kakascik) at 330-726-4144.
      The Death 1975 Of David Evans
      As Hill has been named in the death of Bradley Bellino, interest in Hill could re-ignite efforts to determine who killed 12-year-old David Evans.
      Evans’ lifeless and frozen body was found on the night of Jan. 23, 1975 in the rear yard of a home on Crestline Place.
      An autopsy revealed there was a three-inch hole in his back and he had several broken bones that were determined to be wounds suffered after his death (suggesting a killer had dumped the body there after the boy died).
      At the time of the discovery of the lad’s body, Coroner’s Investigator Mike Yarosh speculated that an animal, possibly a squirrel, caused the hole in the boy’s back, and Evans death was ruled the result of a diabetic emergency, as the boy was a diabetic.
      At the crime scene on Jan. 23, 1975, Boardman Police Officer Steve Balog, sharply disagreed with Yarosh’s conclusions (there was a heated argument), at one point noting that Evans couldn’t have broken his own bones after he died.
      To this day, former and current Boardman police officers agree with Balog’s conclusion and suggest that Evans’ death should be investigated as a murder, not the result of a diabetic emergency.
      Hill still lived in Boardman at the time of Evans death.
      Evans’ father steadfastly maintained that his son had been kidnapped and murdered.
  Best Corned Beef In The Valley Contest  
  January 19, 2023 Edition  
     The Mahoning Valley Irish Festival announces the inaugural Best Corned Beef in the Valley contest, just in time to make plans on where to spend your St. Patrick’s Day. The event will be held at the B&O Station Banquet Hall (530 Mahoning Ave., Youngstown, Oh.) on Sunday, February 19 from noon to 4:00 p.m. Two awards will be given for the best corned beef in the Valley---Judge’s Choice (chosen by a panel of judges) and People’s Choice (chosen by ballot/popular vote). Only 150 tickets will be sold to the public. Ticket cost is $15. A children’s soda bread contest will also be held. Contact the Mahoning Valley Irish Festival at mvirishfestival@gmail.com for more information. All proceeds to benefit the 2023 Mahoning Valley Irish Festival.
  Youngstown Teen Admits To Lying To Police, Charged With Making A False Alarm  
  January 19, 2023 Edition  
     An 18-year-old Youngstown male has been charged with making false alarms when he claimed he had been assaulted when his car ran out of gas on Boardman-Poland Rd. near Hot Head Burritos on Jan. 6 shortly after 2:30 a.m.
      Levi Williams, of 551 Mistletoe Ave., Youngstown, was found by police in the waiting room of Akron Children’s Hospital on Market St., where four police officers answered a call of a teenager who claimed he had been assault.
      “Williams had a torn t-shirt and was in the waiting room with his mother and father,” Ptl. Brian Moss said. Williams told police he is employed at Wendy’s, 433 Boardman-Poland Rd. and finished his work day at 2:30 a.m. As he was leaving the business, he told police his car ran out of gas, so he walked to Sheetz (at Boardman-Poland Rd. and Southern Blvd.) in a t-shirt and no jacket, with a gas can.
      He told police once he got gas, he walked back to his car and while putting gasoline into his car a black male in a 2003 Lincoln Aviator yelled, ‘hey.’
      “Williams said he didn’t pay much attention to it because he was not sure where the voice came from. The male (from the Aviator) then approached him and grabbed onto his t-shirt, ripping it halfway down his chest,” Officer Moss said.
      Williams said he then ran on foot behind the old Golden Corral building and stayed there for about 90 minutes, before returning to his car and then going to Akron Children’s.
      While interviewing Williams, he became uncooperative...and stated he did not want to talk any longer,” Ptl. Moss said, noting “Williams was completely dry when it had been raining and snowing the entire time he was outside when the temperature was 35-degrees.”
      Williams told police his phone was ‘dead,’ but told his mother that he left his phone in his vehicle. When asked why he didn’t go home, or contact the police, Williams stated that he went to the hospital “because he was scared and thought police would be inside.”
      On Jan. 9, police asked Williams to explain the assault and the teenager replied that he as “at a girl’s house” and was afraid to tell his parents, so he made up the whole thing.”
      Williams showed-up at the Boardman Police Department near 1:45 p.m. on Jan. 11 where he was booked on a warrant for making false alarms. He was released pending his arraignment in Boardman Court.
     
  Boardman Local School Board, Township Board Of Trustees Hold Annual Reorganizational Meetings  
  January 19, 2023 Edition  
John Landers (L) Tom Costello (R)
     John Landers President Of The School Board
      At their annual reorganizational meeting held in January, the five-member Boardman Local School Board elected John Landers as president for 2023.
      Landers, 41, of Red Tail Hawk Dr., a Democrat, is the longest serving member of the school board, elected in November of 2009, he took his seat in January, 2010.
      Landers is employed as the director for IT Service Management at Case Western Reserve University. He is a 2000 graduate of Boardman High School and earned a degree in Computer Science from Case Western Reserve University 2004, as well as a masters in Engineering and Management in 2005.
      In 2009, Landers was named by the Ohio Young Democrats as Young Democrat of the Year.
      “As a BHS Class of 2000 graduate, I care deeply about our community and our schools.
      “In addition to striving to improve and maintain the Boardman school system, as a school board member, I’ve had the opportunity to work with Boardman Township to improve our community with the creation of the Forest Lawn Stormwater Park (that will be located on the site of the former Market St. Elementary School) and the fire station (at Stadium Dr. and Market St.) and school bus garage land trade
      “We will continue to make impactful decisions to advance the district and strongly advocate for fair school funding. We work hard to maintain excellence across our programs,” Landers said during his most recent re-election campaign.
      John Fryda was elected vice-president of the school board.
     
      Tom Costello Chairman Of Board Of Trustees
      Thomas Costello, 73, of Hitchock Rd., a Republican, was elected chairman of the Boardman Board of Trustees for 2023 at their annual January reogranization meeting.
      Costello was elected to the Board of Trustees on Nov. 3, 2009, and previously served as a Boardman Township Trustee from Dec., 1999-2005.
      Costello has been active in the community for many years. His involvement includes Kiwanis, Boardman Civic Association, Hope House Visitation, Friends of Boardman Park, Steel Valley Homes for Youth and is a member and past president of the Mahoning County Township Association. He is a 2005 recipient of the Boardman Civic Association’s Community Service Award.
      The current vice-chair of the Mahoning County Republican Party, Costello served as co-chairman of Auditorium 2000 Committee that raised more than $1.4 million for the construction of the Boardman Performing Arts Center at Boardman High School.
      He is a longtime member of the executive committee of the Coalition of Large Urban Townships (CLOUT).
      He recently retired after a 40 year career at James and Sons Insurance, a local independent insurance agency, including 20-plus years as president of the company.
      Tom and his wife, Janet, have a daughter and son-in-law, Jennifer and Michael Wolfe; a son and daughter-in-law, Adam and Danielle Costello; and grandchildren, Mallory and Cameron Wolfe and Brielle Costello.
      Elected to serve as vice-chairman of the Boardman Board of Trustees for 2023 was Brad Calhoun.
     
  Former Boardman Lady Spartans Cage Coach, Ron Moschella, Leaves Behind A Legacy Of Winning  
  Honored As Mahoning Valley Coach Of The Year 21 Times:   January 12, 2023 Edition  
     BY JOHN A. DARNELL JR.
      associate editor
      Legendary former Boardman High School girls basketball coach, Ron Moschella, 72, of West Glen Dr., died Wed., Jan. 4.
      Coach Moschella joined the Lady Spartans basketball program in 1978 and serving first as an assistant coach and then becoming head coach for the 1980-81 season, serving in that capacity held that position for 31 years where he compiled a record of 569-155.
      During the current season, he returned to the Lady Spartans bench where he served as an assistant coach.
      Coach Moschella elevated the Lady Spartans to new heights with 19 Steel Valley Conference titles and two Federal League crowns.
      The 2002 United Press International and Associated Press “Coach of the Year,” he was a 21-time recipient of the Mahoning Valley Coaches Association “Coach of the Year” award, a four-time recipient (1986, 1992, 1995 and 2002) of NEO “Coach of the Year” laurels and the 2001 Ohio High School Basketball Association “Coach of the Year” honor as well.
      Selected to coach in the 1987 Ohio State All Star game, his Boardman teams advanced to district play in 21 seasons, winning 14 district titles and finishing as runners-up on seven other occasions.
      The Lady Spartans were regional finalists in 1986, 1996, 2001 and 2005, and won the regional title in 2005 and 2008 and were regional semifinalists on ten separate occasions. Under Coach Moschella, Boardman teams advanced to the Ohio ‘Final Four’ twice, in 2005 and 2008.
      He was also honored by the Ohio High School Basketball Coaches Association for his 500th victory in 2007 and again 2013 for his 600th win.
      Following his career at Boardman, Moschella led Columbiana High School Lady Clippers basketball for six seasons where he compiled a 130-21 record.
      During his tenure at Columbiana, in Dec., 2017, he won his 700th game as a basketball coach, when Columbiana defeated Mineral Ridge, 70-32.
      His 2015-16 Lady Clippers team went undefeated in the regular season, before losing to Ursuline in the district finals.
      Coach Moschella was inducted into the Curbstone Coaches Hall of Fame in 2010 and the Boardman High School Hall of Fame in 2013.
      In Apr. 2016, he was inducted into the Ohio Basketball Coaches Association Hall of Fame, joining former Spartan head boys basketball coach, Al Burns, as the only Boardman coaches to receive the honor.
      Many of his players went on to play in college, including at Ohio State, Michigan State, Indiana State, Akron, Penn State and Youngstown State. At one time, four of his former players were on the court for the Penguins---including two of his daughters, Christine and Nadine, as well as Liz Hauger and Mary Valley.
      He was often seen ‘coming off the bench’ and exhorting his players, most if not all of whom would tell you his bark was bigger than his bite.
      Coach Moschella sounded a common chord to all his players---“Time, plus hard work, plus discipline, plus pride, equals champions.”
      He was known for his demand of excellence from his players, not only on the court, but also in the classroom. In 2000, he was named the Boardman High School Teacher of the Year.
      A 1968 graduate of Ursuline High School, where he was a member of the basketball team, he was a 1972 graduate of Kent State University where he earned his bachelor of science degree in business and physical education. He earned his masters degree from Youngstown State University in 1980.
      He began his teaching/coaching career in the Howland Local Schools where he taught marketing education and served as Tigers golf coach for seven years, baseball coach for three years and tennis coach for two years.
      He moved to Boardman High School in 1978 where he taught marketing education, business law and physical education. In addition to his duties as head girls basketball coach, he also served a girls golf coach for several years.
      Coach Moschella and his high school sweetheart and wife, Judy, raised three daughters: Christine (Brian Terlesky), Nadine (Nick Colla) and Jolene (Don Ross), who all played for their father at Boardman where each was inducted into the Boardman High School Hall of Fame. They have ten grandchildren---Brian, Tyler, Emma, Jimmy, Jenna, Nicholas, Lia, Tessa, Gianna and Lena.
      Ron was born March 2, 1950 in Youngstown, the son of Joseph and Harriet Moschella
     
      PICTURE: RON MOSCHELLA, WHO SERVED AS head girls basketball coach at Boardman High School for 31 years, died Wed., Jan. 4 at the age of 72. His teams won 19 Steel Valley Conference titles and two Federal League crowns. Following his retirement as Lady Spartan head coach, Boardman Township Trustees issued a proclamation designating Feb. 27, 2012 as Ron Moschella Day.
  Coaching Legend Ron Moschella Dies At Age 72  
  Former Players, Area Coaches And Those Who Knew Him Best Hail ‘The Coach’ As One Of The Tops In Any Area Sport:   January 12, 2023 Edition  
     BY GREG GULAS
      Boardman News Sports
      bnews@zoominternet.net
      If you were fortunate enough to see former Boardman and Columbiana high school girls’ basketball coach Ron Moschella in action, you saw a man without a filter, a coach who was passionate about the game and a person who cared to a fault about the players that he coached and students he taught in his classroom.
      Moschella passed away Jan. 4 at the age of 72 and up until the time of his death was still coaching, serving as an assistant on current Boardman girl’s head coach Jeff Hammerton’s staff, happily imparting his knowledge of the game and the wisdom he accrued over the years to this new group of players, those selected to represent the maroon and white and the program that he put on the map beginning in 1980-81, his first season at the helm.
      He was a coach and teacher who never compromised his principles and if there was ever anyone cutting edge, ‘Mosch’ was that person.
      Hired in time for the 1980-81 season, he went 4-16 that first season and no one took a loss harder than the first-year coach.
      Thirty years later, his last at the BHS helm, he suffered through his second losing campaign, going 8-13.
      In between, he guided his teams to 21 conference championships – he won 19 Steel Valley Conference titles and two Federal League crowns – 13 district championships, two regional crowns and two state Final Four appearances (2005 and 2008).
      He demanded excellence from his players but no more so than the demand for excellence from him and his staff.
      During his tenure he authored 29 winning seasons, guiding his Spartan teams to a 569-155 (.786) overall mark.
      Current Boardman girls’ basketball coach, Jeff Hammerton, called Moschella a mentor and friend.
      “I was so lucky to have had the opportunity to have Coach Moschella in my life for as long as I did,” Hammerton said. “He had such an impact on me from the time I was in high school and he was both a teacher and coach. When I chose Kent State University as my college, he was so happy and proud because that is where he went to school. While pursuing my degree in sports broadcasting, he would often check in because he wanted me to be on ESPN so bad.
      “When I went back to school to become a teacher and coach, he was one of my mentors, both in education and coaching. He taught me so much about coaching and life that I could never repay him. As a coach, he was Boardman Spartans girls’ basketball. For over 30 years he poured his heart and soul into every girl who played for him and for all the successes on the court that his teams enjoyed, he was prouder of what each of his players later became in life.
      “When I was hired back this year to coach the girl’s team, he was the first person I wanted on my staff because of what he means to the program. In the short amount of time that he worked with our team, he left a lasting impression on each of our girls. I could not have been luckier to coach, teach and be his friend and I am going to miss him so much.”
      Former Boardman athletic director, Jim Fox, said the Ron Moschella you saw on the court was not the man others witnessed away from the gymnasium.
      “Working with Mosch at Boardman was memorable, to say the least,” Fox added. “The image some may have after watching games in which he coached is not the same ‘24-7’ man that I worked with for over 20 years. He had a heart that cared immensely for the kids he coached. It is because he genuinely cared about his players that there is no doubt about the positive impact he had in the development and success of one of the truly great girls’ basketball programs in the state of Ohio.”
      Current Spartan athletic director, Marco Marinucci, said Moschella’s passing leaves a void that will be hard to fill.
      “Coach Moschella holds a place in Boardman High School history that can never be filled,” Marinucci stated. “He has given his talents, skills, guidance, support and love to his players, students and colleagues throughout his whole tenure and he will truly be missed by our staff and students.”
      Moschella took over the reins of the Spartans’ program from Denise Gorski, also a former athletic director and the longtime Boardman track and field coach while her husband, Dan, coached the Boardman boys’ hoopsters when Moschella coached the girls team.
      “My association with Mosch goes back to my first and only year as head coach of the Spartans girls’ basketball team in 1980,” Denise noted. “Many people do not know that he was my assistant that year and I vividly remember having to pull him down on the bench at times by his suit jacket. We began a lifelong friendship and I knew that he had a tremendous desire to want to take the girls’ program to new heights, which he certainly did.
      “I wanted to focus on coaching our indoor-outdoor track teams and we were both incredibly supportive of each other’s programs, always encouraging our girls to do both sports. We had many of the same athletes and I know many of them are just devastated right now. I also taught physical education with Mosch for many years and saw the interaction that he had with students as well, not just athletes. They loved him for his personality but also because he cared about what was going on in their lives.”
      Dan Gorski said Moschella forged relationships with everyone with whom he came in contact.
     
     
     
     
     
     
     
     
     
     
     
      “Mosch touched countless lives of the girls he coached,” he said. “He treated them like competitors on the floor and women off the floor. We can all appreciate his intensity at game time but it’s the relationships he forged with his athletes that was so impactful.”
      Current Boardman Schools Superintendent Tim Saxton said Moschella’s teams were always well-prepared.
      “A Coach Moschella team always played hard and intense,” Saxton added. “The secret to his success was how much he cared for those that he coached. Girls played hard for him and he could push them hard in games and practices because at the end of the day, his players knew he truly cared about them. He will be missed.”
      Dave Smercansky was another BHS athletic director who witnessed his drive and intensity, first as an assistant for three years then for 12 more years at the helm of the school’s athletic department.
      “If you didn’t know Mosch, you would probably roll your eyes and raise your eyebrows,” Smercansky added. “If you were fortunate enough to know him, however, you would quickly realize that he loved his players and had a passion for coaching. He would cry with the girls on senior night because of the relationship he had with each of them, knowing he would soon lose them as players when the season ended. He cared about everything and everybody, even when opposing players were injured.”
      Former players revered their coach.
      “He made us all a part of his family,” stated Tanja Simione, a Spartan three-year letterwinner who went on to earn four more letters while starring at nearby Youngstown State University. “His three daughters were at most practices and his oldest, Christine, could handle the ball as good, if not better, than most of us. His wife, Judy, took care of us with her warm smile, letting us know how proud she was of us. I thank you, coach, because you helped make me a better person. He instilled strength, confidence and leadership in his players and those are life lessons that stay with you forever.
      “For that, I will be forever grateful. Knowing that you are now reunited with your daughter, Christine, brings us all some peace. I know when we meet again you will probably remind me of that over and back violation my senior year. He simply loved all of us.”
      Dr. Ashlee [Russo] Rohan, who was a three-year letterwinner for Moschella from 1999-2002, is currently a noted pulmonary and critical care doctor locally.
      “It is hard to summarize a 25-year relationship with Mosh,” she noted. “He would best be known as my high school basketball coach but was much more than that to me. He was a mentor during my most impressionable years, always encouraging to me to have dreams and to chase them. He didn’t believe in meeting potential, he believed in exceeding it. As he transcends to his new journey, I hope he feels how loved he is by so many. I would especially like to extend my prayers and condolences to the Moschella family and to all of those he impacted.”
      After a year away from the game, Moschella was hired by former Spartans’ and YSU football standout, Dr. Don Mook, Columbiana Exempted Village superintendent, to guide the Clippers girls’ basketball team.
      In six seasons at the helm – he also coached the boy’s team in 2014-15, going 14-10 – Moschella went 130-21 (.861) with five league titles and six sectional championships.
      “How do you not enjoy a guy who brings an unmatched passion to whatever he does,” Mook said. “I had two daughters play for him and one of his former players, Courtney Schiffauer, served as his assistant for us. He was a heck of a coach but an even better person. He surrounded himself with quality people and Courtney is now a pre-K physical education teacher at our Joshua Dixon Elementary School.”
      Schiffauer played for Moschella from 2004-08, was a McDonald’s H.S. All-American nominee, the OHBCA Division I ‘Player of the Year’ as a senior, scored 2,000 points during her career and went on to earn a scholarship to Michigan State University.
      “Coach Moschella was not only my coach and mentor, but he was also my best friend,” Schiffauer added. “It wasn’t always about basketball for him because he truly wanted me to be the best human being I could be. No one saw behind the scenes when he pushed me in the classroom, got me tutors if I needed one, fed me dinners after practices, consoled and counseled me when college basketball was mentally draining or when he called just to say hello and check on me.
      “Our relationship didn’t end after high school. He continued to care and love me until the moment he left us. He changed my life by pushing me to my limits, mentally and physically, and I would not have had the success I had, then or now as an adult if it were not for him. As a coach, he pushed for women’s basketball to be treated with respect. We weren’t just girls playing a game in his eyes, we were people who deserved the recognition and accolades that we earned. He would put his teams up against boys, not only to make us better but to show people we could do it.
      “Coach Moschella is the definition of high school girls’ basketball. He will not only be remembered for that and his accomplishments but also for his ever giving heart, his laugh, his hugs, his cologne and the passion he had for his players. I’m just glad he will be reunited with his beloved daughter, Christine, who I know he loved so much. I will forever cherish my time with coach and may his legacy live on forever.”
      With his time at Boardman and stint at Columbiana, Moschella finished his head coaching career as a member of the 700-win club, posting a combined 713-186 (.793) overall ledger – including his time as boys head coach for the Clippers – in 899 total games coached.
      Current McDonald girls’ basketball coach Tony Matisi, who earned his 500th career coaching victory back on November 23, said Moschella taught him to be passionate about everything that he does in life, including coaching.
      “I met Mosch my first year as head coach of Ursuline High School in 1992,” Matisi stated. “He taught me that if you are going to do something, do it with passion and give it 100 percent. I had the pleasure of knowing him for over 30 years and underneath that tough exterior he was always so helpful when I would call and just want to talk basketball. He put Northeast Ohio on the girls’ basketball map and will be sadly missed.”
      Allison [Dougherty] Brien also played for Moschella, graduating in 2006. She is currently an assistant on Hammerton’s staff, handling the lower grades and feeder system for the program.
      “Coach Mosch had five very important values that he wanted us to implement if you were a part of his program,” O’Brien noted. “It was God, family, school, basketball, social life and in that order. He taught us how hard work can pay off. Most days, our practices were four hours long, which may have felt long in the moment but I would do anything to go back to those days with the greatest teammates of all.
      “We weren’t projected to be a state qualifying team my junior year but you better believe we kept pushing and made a dream reality by making our way to the state ‘Final Four,’ his first appearance. We had the time of our lives and I will never forget it. He was more than a basketball coach, he was a family man who loved his children and grandchildren more than anything. I was fortunate enough to have played for him in high school and be able to coach alongside him for a couple of months this season.”
      Former Spartan all-state wrestler and 1973 BHS graduate, Greg Cooper, who served as the athletic director at arch-rival Canfield High School until his retirement, always kept up with the local news during his time in the Navy.
      “First and foremost, my sincerest, most heartfelt condolences and sympathy go out to the Moschella family for their loss, Cooper said.
      “While I was in the Navy, I kept up with the hometown news by subscribing to The Boardman News and that was when I first heard about coach Moschella. I remember reading with pride about his Lady Spartans’ basketball teams and how good they always were. He was the architect of some of Boardman’s best and most successful squads. Even from afar, it was obvious that he was a fiery competitor who demanded the best from everyone associated with his program.
      “I first came face to face with him when I returned home and became Canfield’s athletic director when we played basketball games between the two schools. He lived up to his advance billing and watching him on the sidelines was often as entertaining as the game itself. What really shone through everything was that he was a ferocious competitor and demanding coach on the court, truly caring for each and every one associated with his program.
      “Off the court, he was always a friendly, even gregarious man. You could tell how proud he was of his family and his extended family of players. The local athletic scene is diminished with his passing and he will be sadly missed.”
      Dana Balash, the dean of area sportscasters, appreciated Moschella’s passion for the game and for life.
      “I covered Coach Moschella’s teams in my early days while serving as a stringer with The Vindicator in the mid-1980’s,” Balash added. “He was professional and always wanted to promote his players and program. When I started in the sports department at WFMJ-TV in 1991, he remembered those days from the ‘80s and always said I knew you back then.
      “Ron was passionate on the court and at practice but always credited his players and staff. At times, he would have his assistant coaches do pre or post-game interviews. Even during the tough times, he always returned my calls or consent to an interview where he was never short on words. His on court antics was ‘him’ and no other coach would get away with what he did, but that was Ron Moschella. He simply is girls’ basketball in Boardman.”
      Rob Luklan is an Atlantic Coast Conference football official who was selected to work this year’s Alamo Bowl between No. 12 Washington and No. 20 Texas.
      He has also officiated local boys and girls’ basketball games for over three decades, noting Moschella expected the best from everyone at game time.
      “Ron expected great things from his players and also from the officials,” Luklan stated. “I have had several conversations outside basketball with him and soon realized that he not only cared about the players he coached but boasted of their successes in everyday life.
      “We would talk about the North Canton Hoover-Boardman girls’ games because there was no harder game than that one to officiate. It was fun listening to coach and his many conversations during a game. I am deeply saddened by his passing.”
     
     
     
     
     
     
     
     
     
     
      Jean Armstrong is the longtime secretary in the BHS athletics department, spending the past 32 years working with the many colorful coaches and characters who have walked through their doors.
      “Ron was a great coach, a person who cared about everyone and everything and was a lot of fun to work with,” she noted. “I will miss him.”
      Former Spartans boys’ soccer coach, Eric Simione, has been courtside for many of Moschella’s games where he serves as the school’s public address announcer.
      “Announcing games that Mosch coached was always entertaining, yet a challenge,” Simione said. “There were plenty of times when I had to turn off the microphone so no one would hear me chuckle over something he said or did from the bench. He was a great motivator for his players but you could learn a lot from him as a coach, too, if you were inclined to pay attention. I realized his players would do anything he demanded in a game or practice because they knew how much he cared about them away from the game.
      “Ron was simply a great guy with a heart of gold, a wonderful wife, three amazing daughters, fantastic grandchildren and my thoughts are with all of them during this trying time.”
      He gave the media multiple storylines and they appreciated his candor.
      “You just had to love the guy, quite simply, because he was a news and sports person’s delight,” area freelance sportswriter and noted humorist John Butera added. “He was a delight to work with and his quotes were classic. His coaching style was really something to watch and there was never a dull moment when you covered one of his games.”
      Son-in-law Brian Terlesky coached basketball for his father-in-law with both serving as golf coaches – Terlesky the boys and Moschella the girl’s – for the Spartans.
      “Ron Moschella was the ultimate family man, loving his family more than anything,” Terlesky stated. “He had a passion for teaching and coaching because he genuinely loved people. His intensity for life and his willingness to push others to make the most of themselves was what made him a legend.
      “Boardman students, especially the girls that played for him in basketball, were blessed with his love. Once he became part of your life, if you could handle it, he never let you go and you became a part of his extended family. His life will be known for his unique ability to see the best in people and the potential they possessed. He was the best father, grandfather, teacher, coach and husband.
      ”The love he had for his wife, daughters, and grandchildren was immeasurable. His generosity through his constant wishes to take care of people, feed them, make people laugh and have fun made him such a special person. There will never be a high school coach that was as successful as he was and this success is measured by the love that he has received from the many lives that he has influenced.
      “A second father to so many as a teacher and coach, he was most proud of his 10 grandchildren, pushing each one of them with high expectations but most importantly, his love. He won over 700 games, went to three state championships with his golf teams and two state finals with his basketball teams. The loss of his eldest daughter and fellow coach, Christine, who was diagnosed with ALS in 2013, devastated him over the past two years. He missed her more than words could describe.
      “He was so proud of people for their successes. There will never be another person quite like Mosch.
      “He was emotional, gave the best hugs, wore his heart on his sleeve, wore the best cologne, made the best jokes and made you want to be the best version of yourself that you could be. He will be loved and missed greatly while the world lost a true father.”
     
  LEGAL NOTICE  
  January 5, 2023 Edition  
     LEGAL NOTICE
      The Boardman Township Zoning Commission will conduct a Public Hearing on the following amendments to the Boardman Township Zoning Resolution and Township Zoning Map on Tuesday, January 17, 2023 at 5:30 PM. Go to https://www.boardmantwp.com/zoning/zoning-commission/ for further information.
      Following the recommendation of the Zoning Commission, the proposed amendment will be referred to the Board of Trustees for final determination.
      AMENDMENT A-2022-13
      Pete Schwiegeraht on behalf of Daniel Tokich & Victor Kuchmaner, property owners, requests a zone change for 8048 South Ave. Boardman, Ohio 44512 & 4 surrounding vacant parcels, from the terms of the Boardman Township Zoning Resolution, effective January 1, 2021, in order to change the property from General Business to Multi-Family Residential District (R-3) zoning district. The property is further known as GL 27 DIV 4, Parcels 29-046-0-008.01-0, 29-046-0-008.00-0, 29-046-0-008.03-0, 29-046-0-008.02-0, & 29-045-0-005.00-0. Said property is currently zoned General Business, located in Boardman Township, Mahoning County, State of Ohio.
      To view a hard copy of the texts and maps at the Boardman Township Zoning Office, 8299 Market Street, Boardman, Ohio 44512 Monday through Friday, between the hours of 8:00 AM and 4:00 PM, until time of hearing, please call 330-726-4181 or email requests to jmacomber@boardmantwp.com.
      Peter W. Lymber, Chairman
      Boardman Township Zoning Commission
      Joe Macomber,
      Interim Assistant Director of Planning & Zoning
  School District’s Five Year Forecast Shows Supply Chain, High Inflation Concerns  
  Treasurer: “Increased inflation affecting district costs is expected to continue in fiscal year 2023”:   December 1, 2022 Edition  
     The Boardman Local School District is projecting increases in the costs of personal services and employees’ retirement and insurance benefits to increase by nearly $3 million dollars, for the five year period, between fiscal year 2023 and fiscal year 2027, according to a five-year forecast presented to the Boardman Board of Education on Monday night.
      The forecast, prepared by Treasurer Arthur Ginnetti, shows that expenditures for personnal services in fiscal year 2023 is set at $26.924 million, and that is forecasted to increase to $28.385 million in fiscal year 2027.
      For fiscal year 2023, the forecast shows expenditures for retirement and insurance benefits are $10.62 million, and that will increase to $11.712 million in fiscal year 2027.
      “This five-year forecast is being filed during a two-year economic recovery following the COVID-19 Pandemic, which began in early 2020. The effects of the pandemic have lessened, but several supply chain concerns and high inflation continues to impact our state, country, and broader globalized economy.
      “Inflation in June 2022 hit a 40-year high of 9.1% before falling to 8.3% in August (2022). Costs in fiscal year 2022 were notably impacted in areas such as diesel fuel for buses, electric and natural gas, and building materials for facility maintenance and repair.
      “Increased inflation affecting district costs is expected to continue in fiscal year 2023. It remains to be seen if these costs are transitory or will last over the next few years, which could significantly impact our forecast and adversely affect state and local funding,” Ginnetti said.
      The treasurer noted that “An overall inflation of 3 per cent is being estimated for the category of expenses which are characterized by textbooks, educational supplies, testing supplies, copy paper, maintenance and custodial supplies, materials, and bus fuel. We will buy the technology updates for students from these federal stimulus dollars to help our general fund.”
      Ginnetti said “In fiscal year 2022 we have added staff for an operations manager, speech pathology position, school psychologist and an auditorium manager. In addition we have added costs for classroom and independent aides, bus driver and bus driver aides and added costs for existing staff for additional coverage.”
      He added “A five-year financial forecast has risks and uncertainty not only due to economic uncertainties, but also due to state legislative changes.”
  Boardman Methodist Church Celebrates 200th Anniversary  
  November 17, 2022 Edition  
     Following worship services held on Sun., Nov. 6, Boardman United Methodist Church, 6809 Market St., observed its 200th anniversary.
      The church was first known as the Methodist Episcopal Church and in its early days, services were presided over by ‘circuit’ preachers, who would travel (by horseback) to communities of the Western Reserve, where they most often gave their services in homes of members of the church.
      According to a history of Boardman Township, one of the earliest members of the church was Thomas Agnew, whose family founded Agnew Farm Equipment in 1826,
      The congregation’s first church building was erected in 1844 (at a cost of $803), about a quarter mile south of Boardman Centre, along Market St., just across the street from St. James Episcopal Church.
      Almost a century later, Boardman Methodist moved to its present location on Market St., at Buena Vista Ave. on land donated by noted philanthropist Leon A. Beeghly. (Mr. Beeghly resided on a large plot of land in Boardman that is now the site of Akron Childrens Hospital).
      At that time, Frank Agnew contacted Beeghly, hoping to buy three lots from him on which to build the new church. Although, it is said, Beeghly adamantly refused to ‘sell,’ he quickly offered to ‘exchange’ his property with the church for three gallons of maple syrup, that Agnew had to provide from his own farms. At the suggestion of Mrs. Beeghly, a gift of $5,000 soon followed to spearhead the church building campaign toward its goal of $40,000.
      The first service at that location was held on May 17, 1940.
      Since that time, two additions have been constructed to augment the original construction--an educational building in 1957, and in 1967, the present sanctuary was constructed under the leadership of Rev. Norman Crewson and lay leader Clarence R. Smith.
      Current pastor at Boardman Methodist is Rev. Jerry Krueger. Membership is 400 persons.
      Members of the 200th anniversary committee are Rev. Krueger, Bonnie Babyak, Paula Barrett, Edie Davidson, Kathy Longmuir, Lee Monit and Bill Russell.
     
  Trustees Approve Retention, Hiring Bonuses For The Police Department  
  Chief Werth: “A Step Towards Keeping Us Competitive”:   November 17, 2022 Edition  
     BY JOHN A. DARNELL JR.
      associate editor
      Meeting on Monday night, Boardman Township Trustees Larry Moliterno, Tom Costello and Brad Calhoun unanimously approved payments of retention and hiring bonuses for the 61-member Boardman Police Department and its dispatchers.
      Funding for the retention and hiring bonuses will be provided from a $628,358 grant from the Ohio Violent Crime Reduction Program that was awarded to the township in August.
      According to the grant application, some $435,200 is set aside for “retention bonuses” for Boardman Police Department officers and the staff of 15 persons who work in the township’s dispatching department. The bonuses will be paid of over a two-year period and range from a $3,500 yearly bonus for senior members of the department to $2,000 for lesser-serving officers. The township’s dispatchers will receive yearly bonuses between $2,400 annually to $1,500 annually depending on their term of service.
      Earlier this year, Trustees Brad Calhound, Larry Moliterno and Tom Costello approved bonues of $1,250 for all township employees, using funds provided by the American Rescue Act.
      “The intent of the grant award is to assist in recruiting and retaining employees in critical law enforcement positions, so as to maintain staffing to address violent crime enforcement initiatives in the community,” Police Chief Todd Werth said.
      According to the grant application, violence in the Boardman community has increased since the pandemic began.
      “Boardman Township has not been immune to the effects of the national increases in violent crime.
      “During the COVID-19 pandemic, our jurisdiction experienced an increase in violent crimes similar to what has occurred nationally.
      “Specifically in Boardman Township, felonious assaults have increased 33% from 2019 to 2020; rape was up 28% from 2019 to 2021; robberies increased 17% from 2019 to 2020; and aggravated burglaries increased 85% from 2019 to 2021,” says the grant application.
      Additionally, the application notes “Boardman, like so many other communities, has had its share of difficulties during the pandemic.
      “From 2019 to 2021, there was a nearly 200% increase in the amount of drug overdoses and a nearly 400% increase in overdose deaths in
      Boardman Township.”
      The bonuses for new hires could offset Boardman Township’s relatively low, hourly wage for new police officers, currently at $19.35.
      By comparison, new police officers in Austintown Township receive an hourly wage of $23.07, and in Canfield, the hourly wage for new hires in that police department is $26.36. New hires in the Youngstown Police Department earn $21 an hour.
      Chief Werth said the retention and hiring bonuses are “a step towards keeping us competitive.”
      In another police-related matter, Trustees approved a purchase order for $167,431 for four utility vehicles, Ford Explorers. Cost of the vehicles was some $30,000 more that had been previously approved for the vehicles, Chief Werth said.
      He explained the price increase noting the Ford Motor Co. cancelled “2002 build-outs, requiring the purchase to be resubmitted...with the increase in the purchase price.”
  State Says It Will Build $1.4 Million Roundabout At Wildwood And Glenwood  
  November 10, 2022 Edition  
     Ohio Governor Mike DeWine and Ohio Department of Transportation (ODOT) Director Dr. Jack Marchbanks have announced details on $121 million in new traffic safety projects planned for Ohio, including the installation of approximately two dozen roundabouts in numerous counties across the state.
      Among the projects is a $1.4 million roundabout at Wildwood Dr. and Glenwood Ave., where construction is scheduled to fiscal year 2027.
      “A top priority of my administration has been making travel in our state safer - particularly at Ohio intersections that are known to be dangerous,” said Gov. DeWine. “Studies show that roundabouts significantly reduce the likelihood of serious or deadly intersection crashes, so we’re investing in these projects to save lives in the future.”
      According to ODOT, there were only six traffic deaths at Ohio roundabouts from 2017-2021 compared to 1,126 deaths at a signalized or stop-controlled intersection.
      “Roundabouts save lives. They reduce severe crashes, move traffic more efficiently, and are cheaper to maintain than signalized intersections,” said ODOT Director Marchbanks.
      Funding for these projects will be awarded through ODOT’s Highway Safety Improvement Program which, under the DeWine-Husted Administration, has grown to become one of the largest traffic safety programs in the country.
  Boardman Cage Team Seeks Fifth, Straight AAC Title  
  Head Coach Pat Birch In 11th Season:   November 10, 2022 Edition  
     BY GREG GULAS
      Boardman News Sports
      bnews@zoominternet.net
      If head coach Pat Birch’s Boardman Spartans’ basketball team wins a fifth straight All-American Conference championship, they will do so with just three returning letterwinners and a squad that was all but depleted after the graduation of ten senior leaders.
      Birch (123-110 overall, .528) returns for his 11th season at the helm, having guided the program to a 110-40 (.733) mark the past six seasons and a most impressive 35-1 (.972) mark during their last four league title campaigns.
      The Spartans were sectional champions a year ago, losing to Lyndhurst Brush (82-78) in the district semi-finals so if they expect to make a deep post-season run, then Birch must find a way to replace 10 seniors from last year’s team that were lost to graduation.
      Seniors lost include Trey DePietro (13.8 ppg., 9.6 rpg, both tops on the team), Anthony Hightower (7.0 ppg, 2.2 rpg), Ben Alvarico (3.4 ppg), Seth Cervello (5.8 ppg, 2.4 rpg), Luke Ryan (8.7 ppg, 2.4 rpg, 2.4 assists, 1.4 steals), Danny Zahran, Max Rassega, Ryder Kreps, Carter Mraz and Courtney Love.
      “We graduated a large and talented senior class, 10 seniors in all and a group that was led by all-Ohio player Trey DePietro,” Birch said.
      “Other big losses were All-American Conference first-team selection Luke Ryan, and AAC second team picks Seth Cervello and Anthony Hightower.
      “Coming off four consecutive AAC championships, we will look to reload and defend our title. Losing DePietro, who was also the conference ‘Player of the Year,’ along with nine other senior players will be a big challenge, however, we have some talented players who will get an opportunity to leave their mark on our program.”
      Those three returning letterwinners include Brady DePietro, a 6’ 2” senior guard, Nico Holzschuh, a 6’ 3” junior forward and David D’Altorio, a 6’ 2” sophomore guard who played well for the varsity the last half of last season as a freshman.
      DePietro played in all 24 games a year ago, finished fifth on the team with 104 points (4.2 ppg) while hauling in 1.5 caroms per fray, Holzschuh also played in all 24 games, averaging 1.9 points and 0.9 rebounds while D’Altorio’s freshman year resulted in averaging 2.6 points – he was 13 of 33 from downtown – and 0.7 rebounds over 18 games played.
      Coach Birch on his three returning letterwinners---
      “Brady started a good portion of last season for us, is two years removed from a knee injury and has worked extremely hard this off-season so he can have a successful senior year. We will need scoring, play-making and leadership from him this season.”
      “Nico also gained valuable experience for us last year, getting the start for a big part of the season. He provides toughness on both ends of the court as well as the ability to score.”
      “David earned playing time as a freshman, showing an ability to make shots and run the offense. He will be looked at to do more of both this season.”
      The cupboard is anything but bare for Birch and his staff.
      “Expectations are high within our program,” the head coach added. “Our goal is to maintain the high level of play that we have established as we expect to defend our conference championship and compete for a district title. Both of those will in no way be easy, however, we are challenging our players to set high expectations.
      “Despite losing ten seniors to graduation, we return a nice nucleus of talent along with some up and coming players eager for their opportunity. We will rely on our seniors to provide much needed leadership and our young, inexperienced guys to mature quickly into varsity caliber players.”
      Players to keep an eye on this season include Demarr Clark, a 6’ 5” senior wing man, Antoine White, a 5’ 7” senior guard and Grayson Eicher, a 6’ 3” sophomore forward.
      Clark played in three games while White played in one a season ago.
      Rounding out the roster and competing for playing time are seniors Prabh Singh, Alex Micco and A.J. Nigro, junior Jeff Markovitch, and sophomores Kaden Mayhew and Terrell McDowell.
      The Spartans play four of their first five games at home, opening the season November 29 when they play host to the Campbell Memorial Red Devils then following that up with a game versus arch-rival Cardinal Mooney on December 2.
      They then travel to Hickory (PA) High School on December 6, returning home to play host to both Louisville (December 9) and Canton GlenOak (December 13).
      2022-23 Boardman Boys
  Card Cagers In Quest For Third, Straight District Title  
  Carey Palermo Enters 7th Season At The Helm:   November 10, 2022 Edition  
     BY GREG GULAS
      Boardman News Sports
      bnews@zoominternet.net
      With two consecutive district championships and a regional runner-up finish a year ago to their ever expanding resume, the Cardinal Mooney Cardinals boys’ basketball team is chomping at the bit to get underway with the hopes this year of making it a district championship trifecta.
      Head coach Carey Palermo enters his seventh season at the helm with a 73-70 overall ledger, the team going 18-10 last season – they were 3-3 in the Steel valley Conference – and 35-15 the past two campaigns.
      “It’s very special to be able to say that you are back-to-back district champions,” noted Palermo as he recapped last season’s run. “We advanced to the regional finals with a senior heavy team that just got better every week so that, too, was also very special.
      “We played our best basketball at the end of the year, beating NE8, All-American Conference, Steel Valley Conference, and MVAC Grey and Red Tier conference champions. That team was built on defense.”
      Palermo must find a way to replace six very special players off last year’s squad, players that were scorers, rebounders and leaders both on and off the court if he expects his team to make a run at another district title.
      Gone are leading scorer Mick Hergenrother, who averaged a team-best 13.4 points per game and a senior leader whose steady play also contributed 4.0 rebounds, 4.2 assists and 3.0 steals per outing.
      Also gone are Drew Pecchia (3.5 points, 3.3 rebounds), Jack Pepperney (5.6 ppg, 2.8 rpg), James Campbell, Jack Phillips (1.2 ppg, 2.8 rpg) and Jack Desmond (1.4 rpg).
      Players returning to the fold must jell early if they expect to enjoy the success that they have over the past two seasons.
      “We have a very talented group returning, an inexperienced yet hungry group,” Palermo said. “We return three starters but the next six players were junior varsity players, all moving up after leading our JVs to a 16-5 record last season.”
      The three starters returning to the fold include senior Jaxon Menough (3.9 points,1.9 rebounds, 1.4 steals), junior Rocco Turner (12.8 points, second on team, 2.9 rpg, 1.9 steals) and junior Ashton O’Brien (7.2 ppg, third on team, 2.7 rpg, 1.2 assists, 1.6 steals), who is the starting quarterback on the Cardinals’ football team and will undoubtedly need a few weeks before he works himself into basketball shape.
      Rounding out the roster and competing for playing time will be seniors Nolan Radinsky, also a football player and Aiden Kim, juniors Anthony Allen, Jibri Carter, Jr., Will Desmond, Dominic Graziano, Matt Kay, Eddie Nieves and Nick Pregibon, and sophomore Aiden Radinsky.
      “Jaxon [Menough] is our senior leader and best defender on the team,” added Palermo. “This will be his third year playing varsity, he is our most experienced player and has been a key player on our two regional squads. He brings a ton of energy every day.
      “Nolan [Radinsky] has great length at 6’ 3,” is a very good spot up shooter and member of our play-off football team as well. Rocco Turner is our returning scoring leader, is a state champion on our golf team and can really shoot the basketball.
      “Ashton O’Brien, quarterback on the football team, is our second leading scorer from last year, a player who is long and athletic and a great all-around player who shoots extremely well. Nick Pregibon is a very versatile player who can do many things including shoot, handle the ball and pass. He is a key player on our soccer team while Will Desmond is a scrappy, athletic post player who also plays on our play-off football team. He does a lot of the dirty work while Dom Graziano is a scrappy player, a good shooter, can handle it and is yet another key player on our play-off soccer team.
      “Matt Kay is a tough defender, knock down shooter and football guy while Eddie Nieves, who is 6’ 5” tall, is athletic and very long, can shoot and is very skilled.”
      The Cardinals open their season with two road games, the first at Liberty on November 29 then at Boardman on December 2.
      Their home lidlifter is set for December 6 when they play host to Academy for Urban Scholars, a team they defeated 62-28 a season ago.
     
  Kiwanis Annual Halloween Candy Distribution  
  November 3, 2022 Edition  
     The Boardman-Youngstown Kiwanis Club and Boardman Police Department renewed their annual, decades-long Halloween trick-or-treating candy distribution on Monday. Its purpose is to serve trick or treating children and families along with the police department in a friendly and supportive manner in the community. Pictured, in front, from left, Kiwanis members Jerry Osborne, Michael Thomas and Tom Mumaw. In back row, from left, Kiwanis member Mark Luke, Ptl. Evan Beil, Capt. Ed McDonnell, Ptl. Erin Higgins and Ptl. Tom Zorzi.
     
  ncumbent Judges Donofrio And D’Apolito ‘Highly Recommended’ By Bar Association  
  November 3, 2022 Edition  
     The Mahoning County Bar Association has issued its recommendations on judicial candidates who will be on the Nov. 8 general election ballot.
      “In keeping with their Code of Professional Responsibility, lawyers are charged with the duty to aid the public in the selection of those seeking a judicial position. Attorneys consider the qualities of Legal Knowledge, Professional Experience, Judicial Temperament, Integrity, Diligence and Professional Responsibility,” the bar association said in a press release.
      In the race for a seat on the Seventh District Court of Appeals, the bar association said that incumbent Judge Gene Donofrio is “highly recommended,” and his opponent, Mark Hanni, is “not recommended.”
      Running unopposed for re-election as a Mahoning County Common Pleas Judge is incumbent Anthony M. D’Apolito, The bar association said that Judge D’Apolito is “highly recommended.”
      Also unopposed for re-election on the November ballot are Juvenile Judge Theresa Dellick and County Court Judge Joe Schiavoni, The bar association said both candidates are “recommended.”
      The bar association said “survey results are not and shall not be characterized as an endorsement of any candidate.”
  Ashley Mariano Honored With Pillar Award By Health/Recovery Board  
  October 20, 2022 Edition  
Ashley Mariano
     Ashley Mariano, prevention coordinator/ family and community partnership liaison at the Educational Service Center of Eastern Ohio in Canfield, was recognized as the Support Staff of the Year by the Mahoning County Mental Health and Recovery Board for service to a local district, its students and community.
      After tragedy struck at Lowellville Local School District in May, the Educational Service Center of Eastern Ohio (ESCEO, formerly Mahoning County ESC) immediately became engaged to support the district, with Mariano coordinating the response.
      “Ashley was instrumental in responding to the crisis situation with a team of mental health professionals, including school and local agency personnel,” says Dr. Traci Hostetler, ESCEO superintendent. “Throughout the process, she connected students, family and staff to appropriate providers for additional support and resources.”
      Mariano worked with staff, law enforcement, and other key county agencies to develop a re-entry plan for students, families and staff, including developing a tiered counseling support plan based on individual needs.
      Mariano, of 224 Brainard Dr., was recognized for her service and support at the Mahoning County Mental Health Recovery Board’s annual Recognition Luncheon.
      “This award is such an honor,” says Mariano “I am fortunate to get to work my dream job, supporting educators and helping professionals to provide the best care for our students and our community. “
      “Ashley takes her role and responsibilities to heart and is dedicated to her vocation,” says Hostetler. “She is always willing to go above and beyond and is very passionate about wanting to help others.”
      The ESC of Eastern Ohio (then Mahoning County ESC) introduced the role of prevention coordinator when Mariano was hired in August, 2020 and her duties were expanded in December, 2020 with the addition of the duties as family and community partnership liaison. Her services provide mental health and wellness support and connections for educators, families, counselors and students, especially those most vulnerable.
     
      PICTURED: Ashley Mariano, prevention coordinator, received the Mahoning County Mental Health and Recovery Board’s Pillar Award as Support Staff of the Year for her service to a local school district, its students, families and staff.
  Township Seeks Grant For Storm Water Control  
  October 20, 2022 Edition  
     Meeting last week, Boardman Trustees Brad Calhoun, Tom Costello and Larry Moliterno learned a first step in applying for hazard mitigation assistance grant monies for storm water control have been accepted.
      Township Administrator Jason Loree said the ABC Water and Stormwater District, in partnership with Boardman Township and Mahoning County, is seeking a $16.965 million grant to separate storm lines from the Boardman Plaza, north to Cranberry Run. The project would also include the creation of a detention area for storm water.
      Loree said a second, pre-application for $10.12 million has been approved. That grant would also aid surface water issues at the Boardman Plaza and would include acquiring several parcels of land that could be used to create a water detention area.
      According to pre-application papers, the “most recent” flooding issues in Boardman Township was on Sept. 4 that caused over 300 homeowners property damage.
      “One such problem area is in the vicinity of the Boardman Plaza, where a grocery store (Save-A-Lot) has been....flooded multiple times, in addition to a five-lane highway, Rt. 224, becoming a ‘lake’ at the intersection of Locust Ave,” according to the pre-application papers.
      “This project proposes safety improvements and provides a new outlet and central storm relief conduit to off-load 105 acres from the headquarters of Cranberry Run to an open stream to re-route runoff,” says the pre-application, noting that Rockdale Ave. “suffers recurring flooding four to five times a year.”
      The grant concept would also include the construction of an underground detention system to manage storm water runoff from the plaza and its parking lot (near Locust Ave.), as well as a regrading of the parking lot.
      “The Stormwater District has submitted two pre-applications for Building Resilient Infrastructure and Communities (BRIC) grants through the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA). The pre-application process is very competitive, and historically townships have a tougher time applying for these grants.
      “However utilizing a partnership with the ABC Water and Stormwater District might give the pre-applications better odds at passing the screening process. If we receive the go ahead to put into a formal application, the ABC District will reach out to the property owners and different area agencies for a more solid commitment on property acquisition.
      “These two proposed projects are going to be ‘long shots,’ but both the township and ABC District are committed to explore every option possible in leveraging funding help improve the stormwater system,” Loree told trustees.
      “Boardman Township was developed in the 1940s and 1950s with little to no (drainage) detention. As neighborhoods developed, roadways were widened, and commercial areas boomed.
      “Unfortunately, impervious areas were not mitigated with storm detention during or after construction. Today, rainfall patterns are trending to become more frequent and more intense. The township has suffered two, 1000-year events, and one 500-year event in the past five years. These rainfall events have devastated portions of the community,” says grant pre-application language.
      In other matters, Trustees approved a lighting district on Berklee Dr. for the installation of four street lights. A majority of the property owners voted in favor of the lights being installed by First Energy with an assessment for the first year to be approximately $756.61 per lot for the installation of the four lights, with an annual assessment of approximately $47.34 per lot for each year after that. In addition, each property owner, at their own expense, must trim any applicable trees on their property prior to installation.
      Trustees approved the sale of property at Lot 61 on Brandon Ave. to Shane Selman, 12921 Springfield Rd., at the fair market value of $3,300 based upon the recommendation of Marilyn Sferra Kenner, P.E., Road Superintendent/Land Bank Manager.
  How To Rebuild America’s Heartland Via The Remote Revolution  
  Zoom Town - Boom Town:   October 13, 2022 Edition  
     “The table is set for a Middle-America comeback...
      This once-in-a-lifetime opportunity for meaningful economic and cultural progress is knocking on our front door”
     
      by Joe Metzger
      Be inspired! Life is full of challenges – but that is exactly what makes it worth living. I am here as a builder of houses and rebuilder of dreams. A former Navy Seal and Yale University graduate, who served in the Navy’s Construction Engineering Battalions as a ‘Seabee.’
      Before all that, I was just an average ‘Joe’ from Youngstown, Ohio. A skinny kid with a higher purpose who wouldn’t give up. And like Youngstown – and so many other American communities – I had an undying desire to rise above any obstacle and be all I could be.
      So let me start with a story…
      It was a particularly cold Sunday morning during the early days of the Covid-19 lockdown. I was driving on Wick Ave. in Youngstown, Ohio – a former steel manufacturing mecca that had been left to die since World War II – when I saw something I will never forget.
      Standing in the rain outside a half-renovated building was a nicely-dressed man holding a set of blueprints. He was pointing and discussing what appeared to be a rebuilding project. At that time, the powers-that-be had deemed the construction industry essential to our national economy; and as he kept working, I realized I was witnessing a glimpse of Youngstown on its way to newfound glory.
      My hometown, and in fact many of America’s heartland cities who once lost their ‘best and brightest’ to greener pastures, now have a chance to reclaim lost prosperity. If we combine the unique upshot of the Covid lockdown with courageous vision and positive thinking, our economic renaissance can and will become reality.
      It is time to imagine Youngstown as a Zoom Town Boom Town.
      Remote working is here to stay. According to projections, 25% of all professional jobs in North America will be remote by the end of 2022, and remote opportunities will continue to increase through 2023…Remote opportunities leapt from under 4% of all high paying jobs before the pandemic to about 9% at the end of 2020, and to more than 15% today.
      “This change in working arrangements is impossible to overhype. As big as it is, it’s even bigger than people think,” said Ladders CEO Marc Cenedella, who says it’s the largest societal change in America since the end of World War II. “Hiring practices typically move at a glacial pace, but the pandemic turned up the heat so we’re seeing a rapid flood of change in this space. It’s really rather amazing.”
      Yes, doing business during the Covid lockdown fundamentally transformed the modern workplace. Communities who have experienced decades of the proverbial ‘brain drain’ need to take note. Zoom calls and home companions barking at a FedEx delivery are worthy tradeoffs for unreasonably high rent and big city dehumanization.
      The table is set for a Middle-America comeback.
      Let’s not forget, from the promise of Plymouth Rock to the Great Migration of the early 20th century, Americans have always sought a better life for themselves and their families—it’s in our Pilgrim DNA. Undoubtedly, the transient tendencies of our upwardly mobile population are as American as coming home for the holidays. And people always want a better deal.
      Here are the facts…most large cities are experiencing unprecedentedly high housing costs, unmanageable property taxes, terrible traffic, and horrific crime rates that are pushing people to recalculate where to live. According to a recent article at SBSun.com, Kenneth P. Miller asserts that in addition to median home value, other factors increase the desire to leave one place for another:
      A quick glance at the price of a gallon of gas, a utility bill, or a tax bill in California compared to Texas or other states makes one wonder if the premium is worth paying… Although California is a natural paradise, it also is plagued by various three forms of social disorder, including, in many places, crime, drug paraphernalia, vandalism and scandalous levels of homelessness.
      Fundamental change often starts with pain in the pocket book. The global pandemic exposed just how fragile the world’s supply chains are. Look to the local grocery store or car dealer and see the uncomfortable results. The “push” to find a better deal is real and relentless.
      Fortunately, with every push comes a pull. By dramatic contrast, smaller, often forgotten cities like Youngstown provide an affordable alternative to those feeling the squeeze of big-city insanity. Certainly the most attractive ‘pull’ factor of Middle America is the low cost of living. So let’s crunch some numbers. A $300,000 home in northeast Ohio can be valued at well over $1 million with identical specs elsewhere. Taxes of all kinds, utility bills, gasoline, parking, and everyday amenities are much cheaper in the Midwest. According to Bestplaces.net, the calculated difference of the overall cost of living between Los Angeles, California and Youngstown, Ohio is approximately 65%. In Youngstown, housing costs are nearly 80% less and property taxes are close to 75% less. These numbers reflect the answer…pay less, get more.
      In short, our country is poised for a major reset. As a result, many less densely populated regions of America have a golden opportunity to experience an economic equalization of epic proportions.
      My old hometown is suddenly in the sweet spot.
      But the allure of a better life is about more than bank statements and recovering from the Covid lockdown. In fact, there are many intangible factors playing into the places to which we are drawn. Let’s dive deeper. The aging baby-boomer population and the projected shortage of health care professionals will also cause the younger generation to rethink where to call home.
      A 2022 study by Duquesne University suggested the number of health care workers needs to increase dramatically to meet the demands in coming years…by 2025 projections indicate a shortage of more than 400, 000 home health aides and 29,400 nurse practitioners. Furthermore, the over-65 demographic will increase by 48% by 2032.
      Being connected to something larger and more meaningful than ourselves plays a vital role in our overall emotional and mental wellbeing. Communities like Youngstown embody a noteworthy depth of family relationships and collective relevance. It is about more than caring for your aging loved ones. These are the “Legacy Cities” that formed the foundation that America was built upon. Their contributions have been enormous, and it is time to give back.
      The history, cultures, traditions, and natural beauty are just a few of the factors that draw people together in a smaller town.
      In The Celebration Chronicles, sociologist Andrew Moss tells the story of a fantasy town the Disney corporation built near Orlando, Florida. It was intended to reflect the characteristics of a tight-knit community, with all the charm and convenience of a smaller town—like a reincarnated Mayberry. Builders even erected a statue of a fake founder in the town center.
      Oddly enough, it was the shoddy construction caused by unrealistic deadlines that brought the residents of this town together. The collective discomfort brought on by leaky roofs and broken air conditioners created an esprit de corps—a call to arms. Selfless and meaningful bonds developed in similar fashion to the strong connections and mutual respect forged between military veterans when fighting a common enemy as one cohesive unit. But we don’t need corporate America to create fake Mayberry. Mid-sized cities all across America already embody the perfect imperfection we desire— the battlefields are plentiful and the call for troops is already real.
      Youngstown itself does not need a fake statue in Town Square and newly-minted antique homes to create a sense of community. We already have it. We simply need to recognize the good bones of the spaces that surround us, shake off the rust, and reveal the shiny steel still lying beneath the surface.
      “If you build it, he will come”—famous words spoken by that mystical voice to Kevin Costner in the movie Field of Dreams as he walked through that idyllic Iowa cornfield. Much to the dismay of family and friends, Costner’s character listens to the unseen voice to plow under his corn crop to construct a baseball field and create a place where past failures can be made right.
      For him it provides a way to reconcile with his late father. His father’s spirit comes back in physical form within the confines of this faith-filled space to play catch with his son one more time. It allows forgiveness and closure to their regrets—and we all can relate.
      “Field of Dreams amends generational gaps and unresolved tensions so that life can progress while still having respect for the past, said Jordan Williams, ScreenRant.com
      This invaluable notion that sacred ground provides a place to reconcile the work of previous generations with the work yet to be done not only prevents small-townliving from becoming a relic of the past -- it also provides an opportunity to become our future’s shining city on the hill. And we do not have to rely on blind faith to walk the path to prosperity, because the new workplace environment has already shown us the way. Remote work for companies that improve their own bottom line by allowing us to live in places where we will be happier - this is the win-win.
      This is the essence of the Zoom Town Boom Town---We are creating a space for generational reconciliation, a deeper connection to what matters, a higher standard of living, a new reality for communities like Youngstown and others across America.
      This time, we will re-build it, and they will come back.
      But what does all this have to do with me? I am here as an agent of optimism and action. I believe the resilient, industrious nature of the average Midwesterner is anything but average. If we can hear and heed the pull of the opportunity provided, listen to the voices speaking to us now, trust in the future and summon the strength to lead the way, we can be part of the change we wish to see.
      Enter 1978 Wakefield Avenue in Youngstown’s Brownlee Woods Neighborhood. This is the field I have been charged to plow. When you look at the big picture, property values in cities like Youngstown have been grossly undervalued for too long. My cold Sunday-morning moment inspired me to resurrect a historic home near where I live. Here is an excerpt from its recent listing:
       •Pretty Much Perfection---Come home to Brownlee Woods and be part of something special! Nestled away in one of northeast Ohio’s most charming neighborhoods lies the million-dollar home you’ve always dreamed of but for a fraction of the cost! Take advantage of America’s beauty and ditch the traffic with a short country drive to numerous farm-fresh markets, world-class healthcare, major universities, and cheap golf with some of the best courses in the country. Chestnut trees line the boulevard as numerous amenities are a short walk away. Get plugged-in to the acting studio, Neighborhood Association, Fall Festivals, Christmas Dinners and Fourth of July Parades. Feel safe with a nearby fire station and dedicated community police officer. Your new home is in America’s heartland where the birds sing proudly, people safely walk their dogs, and baby strollers rule the sidewalks. Welcome home!
      1978 Wakefield is a microcosm of America’s heartland. Its description is comprised of more than impersonal facts and statistics—more than square footage, number of rooms, age of the roof, and the laundry room on the first floor. The intangible characteristics are what give the space its powerful impact.
      The home’s relationship with the natural environment is what sets it apart from others. Because of its southern orientation with 35 oversized windows, each sun-drenched room creates a warm emotional reaction you immediately feel. From sunrise to sunset, as the sunbeams slowly wrap around the exterior of the home and highlight every interior space in its own unique way, a curious sense of tranquility envelopes you and creates a sense of sanctuary you will treasure.
      The promise of the care we put into this home - along with our desire to rebuild this hidden gem of Youngstown - is echoed in the 1985 poetry of Louis Zlotkin:
      I Still Believe in Youngstown
      And all the good folks there.
      Though mills are gone
      The show goes on
      Because of those who care.
     
      I Still Believe in Youngstown
      They’re shopping everywhere.
      Some stores are out
      But there’s no doubt
      Most stores still get their share.
     
      They’re Giving It A Face Lift
      With hopes and dreams anew,
      Cause all around
      They’re breaking ground
      For other buildings too.
     
      I Still Believe in Youngstown
      With all its faults, I swear.
      There’s much to do
      But we’ll pull through
      Because of those who care.
      I am not the only one who still believes in Youngstown.
      Courage and vision are what I saw on that cold, wet Sunday morning as it dawned on me the individual holding the blueprints was local builder Dominic Marchionda. What makes his standing more noteworthy is his belief in Youngstown prior to the opportunities provided by the freedom to work remotely. Marchionda believed in Youngstown before it was cool to believe in Youngstown. And despite risking life and limb navigating through political tripwires and minefields, he has become the most influential property developer Youngstown has experienced in a generation.
      Others possess that same warrior spirit.
      Julius Oliver recently built a 4,000- square-foot home on the lower end of Youngstown’s First Ward near the Mahoning River to motivate others to invest in at-risk neighborhoods.
      Jim Tressel helped transform Youngstown State University (YSU) into a place to live and not just learn.
      Others include Ian Beniston and his merry band of neighborhood crusaders who have raised more boats with their tidal-wave intensity more than any other.
      Meshel, McNally, Mcarty, Mcarthy, Swierz, Smith, Carter, Raymond, Brown, Palumbo, Danyi, the Stone Fruit Coffee company, Wendy P. and her team of Aces, Voltage Valley champs like Rivers and Verb.
      Barack Obama helped facilitate a federally-funded additive manufacturing lab that is promising to transform Youngstown from a steel town to a 21st century tech-hub. The list of action-oriented believers includes everyday people who, despite facing daunting odds and the onslaught of constant negativity, often possess the power to affect change on the grandest scales. They are the unlikely heroes who seek neither glory nor gold.
      As a SEAL, I had the rare privilege to work alongside some of the best warriors. Yet it was a ten-year-old Iraqi boy who gave me the greatest inspiration during my darkest time. I watched him run through machine gun fire on numerous occasions to help protect his family and help our coalition forces—all while carrying his soccer ball he wanted to protect. In addition to being a sweet young boy, he was one of the most courageous individuals I ever met.
      “The basic difference between an ordinary man and a warrior is that a warrior takes everything as a challenge while an ordinary man takes everything either as a blessing or a curse,” said Don Jun in Tales of Power.
      The lifeblood of America flows through the heartland and thanks to the not-so-average Midwesterner and the freedom to work remotely, cities like Youngstown, Ohio are now poised for a new economic reality. Like the ingredients for making steel, our new normal is a confluence of three core components. Our essential ingredient—the iron ore—is the new freedom to work from where we choose. Our catalyst—the coal that fuels change—is the conviction that drives us to new economic growth. Our purifying agent—the limestone flux -- like our common goal of a better life for us and our children—is the inspiration that is passed to others who will continue rebuilding for generations to come.
      This once-in-a-lifetime opportunity for meaningful economic and cultural progress is knocking on our front door as we can now attract nicely paid professionals to a new and better existence. Let the steel shine brightly and build on, for our work here is not done.
      We shall not cease from exploration
      And the end of all our exploring
      Will be to arrive where we started
      And know the place for the first time.
      –T.S. Eliot, “Little Gidding”
      Joe Metzger graduated from Boardman High School. in 1988. He graduated from Yale University with a BA in American Studies with an emphasis in politics and American communities. He joined the Navy as a construction engineer (SeaBee), became a SEAL and graduated (cross trained) Army Ranger training and became Ranger qualified. He has extensive experience in the contracting and construction management field. He served as Youngstown’s Brownlee Woods President, vice president and is a current member of Youngstown’s 7th Ward association. He currently works at 70E Solutions that helps facilitate numerous ongoing contracts with the Department of Defense and other government agencies. Metzger can be reached at joseph.metzger@gmail.com
  Former Boardman Police Dept. Detective Jeff Heaver, 73, Dies  
  October 13, 2022 Edition  
     One of the more colorful characters in Boardman Township history, Jefferson ‘Bear’ Heaver, 73, died Fri., Oct. 7, of a heart attack. At the time of his sudden death, he was helping an elderly person at Marcs get merchandise off a display shelf.
      Bear was a 1967 graduate of Boardman High School, growing up on Tanglewood Dr., a son of the late Dr. and Mrs. Robert Heaver.
      He leaves his wife of eleven years, Sharon Moran. He had a brother, Bob (Trush), of Georgia; and three sisters, Cathy (Dan) Hunt, and Laurie Heaver, of Florida; and Nancy Heaver, of Columbus, Oh.
      At Boardman High School, Bear was a standout member of the Spartans football team, where he served as a co-captain and earned first-team All Steel Valley Conference laurels as a senior. He was also a three-year letterman with the Spartans wrestling team.
      After attending Heidelberg College, he was employed for two years with the Boardman Township Road Department.
      In 1973, he joined the Boardman Police Department, where he was a member of Fraternal Order of Police Lodge #43, serving a term as president. He retired on Dec, 2, 2002, as Chief of the Detective Division.
      “He was particularly adept and remembering dates, times and names,” his former Police Chief Glenn Bowers once said.
      Heaver’s term of service at the Boardman Police Department was recognized many times for his professionalism.
      When promoted to the rank of detective in 1981, Chief James McBride said that Heaver “served with great devotion to duty and has displayed good investigative ability. He has shown soundness of decision, promptness of action, and application of good investigative procedures.”
      In May, 1991, Chief Bowers commended Officer Heaver for his work in an investigation into a hit-skip accident that killed a 13-year-oldboy on Glenwood Ave.
      “The police department received an anonymous tip that an individual made a statement in a bar in Austintown about striking a youth. Your experience and expertise as an investigator, along with your diligence led to the arrest and conviction of the individual who was responsile,” Chief Bowers said of Heaver’s efforts.
      As a member of the FOP, he was known for his ability to negotiate contracts for members of his union, without petty squabbles.
      While a member of the police department, the Bear decided to take up the sport of golf, first learning the game at Tippecanoe Country Club.
      In retirement, he golfed all the time. He had a reputation as an excellent putter, especially from distance. In his later years, any putt he had from 4-ft. or closer, was a ‘gimme!’
      He was a member and past president of the Sigma Club, a member and treasurer of the Sigma-60 Investment Club, and a member of the board of the Springfield Ridge Association.
      He and his outgoing, sometimes gruff character will be sadly missed by all those who knew him.
      The Bear could spin a yarn better than most, and often would tell his tales with unmatched repetition.
      He loved the community, and the police department that he served.
      Calling hours are set for Mon., Oct. 24, from 4:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. with a memorial service to follow at the Rossi-Santucci Funeral Home.
      Shortly before his death, the Bear sent the following to his friends---
      THE LAST QUARTER
      Most of us, not all, are now in the last quarter of our life and should read this interesting piece of advice. This is one of the nicest and most gentle articles I’ve read in a while: no politics, no religion and no racial issues - just food for thought.
      You know …… time has a way of moving quickly and catching you unaware of the passing years.
      It seems just yesterday that I was young and embarking on my new life. Yet in a way, it seems like eons ago, and I wonder where all the years went.
      I know that I lived them all.
      I have glimpses of how it was back then and of all my hopes and dreams.
      However, here it is …… the last quarter of my life and it catches me by surprise.
      How did I get here so fast? Where did the years go and where did my youth go?
      I remember well seeing older people through the years and thinking that those older people were years away from me and that I was only on the first quarter and that the fourth quarter was so far off that I could not visualize it or imagine fully what it would be like.
      Yet, here it is …… my friends are retired and getting grey - they move slower and I see an older person now. Some are in better and some worse shape than me but I see the great change.
      They’re not like the ones that I remember who were young and vibrant …… but like me, their age is beginning to show and we are now those older folks that we used to see and never thought we’d become.
      Each day now, I find that just getting a shower is a real target for the day and taking a nap is not a treat anymore. It’s mandatory because if I don’t of my own free will, I fall asleep where I sit.
      And so, now I enter into this new season of my life unprepared for all the aches and pains and the loss of strength and ability to go and do things that I wish I had done but never did. But at least I know that, though I’m on the last quarter and I’m not sure how long it will last, that when it’s over on this earth, it’s over. A new adventure will begin!
      Yes, I have regrets. There are things I wish I hadn’t done; things I should have done but truly there are many things I’m happy to have been done. It’s all in a lifetime.
      So, if you’re not on the last quarter yet, let me remind you that it will be here faster than you think. So, whatever you would like to accomplish in your life do it quickly.
      Don’t put things off too long. Life goes by so quickly. So, do what you can today, as you can never be sure whether you’re on the last quarter or not.
      You have no promise that you will see all the seasons of life. So, live for today and say all the things that you want your loved ones to remember - and hope that they appreciate and love you for all the things that you have done for them in all the past years.
      ‘Life’ is a gift to you. Be Happy! Have a great day!
      Remember, it is health that is real wealth and not pieces of gold and silver.
      You may think:
      Going out is good - but coming home is better! You forget names - but it’s okay because some people forgot they even knew you! You realize you’re never going to be really good at anything like golf - but you like the outdoors!
      The things you used to care to do, you aren’t as interested in anymore - but you really don’t care that you aren’t as interested.
      You sleep better on a lounge chair with the TV on than in bed – you call it ‘pre-sleep’!
      You miss the days when everything worked with just an ‘On’ and ‘Off’ switch!
      You tend to use more four-letter words – ‘what’ and ‘when’
      You have lots of clothes in your wardrobe, more than half of which you will never wear – but just in case!
      So, stay well, ‘Old friend!’ Have a fantastic day! Have an awesome quarter – whichever one you’re in!
      Take care,
      The Bear
  Take Control Of Your Health and Life  
  October 6, 2022 Edition  
     By Donald K. Allen, MS, DVM
      Lt. Col., USAF/USAFR (Retired)
      Former Military Public Health Officer
      To know of an effective treatment for a disease, and not use it to cure a patient, is malpractice. Government (USDA, AMA, VMA, etc.) cannot override your commitment to effective treatment.
      Ivermectin and hydroxychloroquine have been shown to be very effective in combating Covid, yet because “there have not been enough studies,” government banned their use.
      Meanwhile, vaccines for Covid that have been PROVEN to be dangerous to your health, and not effective in preventing infection, are promoted by government, without ANY long-term studies. AND, vaccine manufacturers have been given protection from litigation due to adverse effects!
      Insanity; to do the same thing (vaccination) over and over again and expecting different results.
      “Following orders” was not a legitimate defense during the Nuremberg Trials of Nazis after WWII, and it will not be accepted as a defense this time. Discouraging the use of ivermectin or hydroxychloroquine is criminal, and those who have done this should be held accountable.
      Read the article, “Ivermectin and the Price of Life,” by Justus R. Hope, MD, and see what money has bought that hindered the conquest of the Covid pandemic, and cost countless lives. You should be mad as hell.
      But this is just the first of three issues I have with “modern medicine.”
      As a veterinarian, I have been using a product named, “Azodyl,” for over nine years in cats and dogs. It consists of three bacteria (essentially a probiotic) that destroy urea, a waste product of protein metabolism that builds up in the body when the kidneys are failing. The acid-resistant capsule releases the bacteria in the small intestine, and they begin work immediately to reduce the toxic effects of uremia, which poisons the body.
      Recently this product was approved for use in humans (we’re all animals, you know) and is marketed as, “Renadyl.” During early research, Azodyl was tested in nearly all domestic animals, as well as humans, and was found to be equally effective, since kidney function is basic the same in
      mammals. I have seen Azodyl cut blood urea nitr gen (BUN) and creatinine numbers in half, along with a reduced protein diet. But I doubt your urologist would recommend it, since dialysis is a huge, multi-billion-dollar business, and this product may keep you out of, or delay your need for it.
      Here’s the third issue. I developed prostate cancer in 2015 and had my prostate robotically removed. Then I needed 33 radiation treatments to ensure the cancer was controlled. A friend told
      me about maitake mushrooms tripling (300%) your T-lymphocytes, which are your hunter-killer white cells that scavenge dead and foreign cells. Since radiation destroys cells, I thought this would be helpful in healing. I take a mushroom supplement every day. You can find studies to confirm this from the National Institute of Health (NIH). My oncologist just blew it off; not interested. So, if it doesn’t come down from above, i.e. the American Medical Association (AMA), or read about in the Journal of Oncology, forget about it.
      So, our “government” continues to downplay ivermectin, and the citizens who totally obey their directives will ridicule you for using, “horse wormer.” Well, just disregard the 2015 Nobel Prize for Physiology and Medicine, given to the Japanese discoverer of ivermectin. Also disregard the millions of humans in Africa who have been taking ivermectin for decades to prevent river blindness and elephantiasis. That’s all nonsense, right?
      I know, I’m a veterinarian, and you know we’re not “real doctors.”
      Dr. Allen’s Office is located at
      4501 Market St., Boardman, Oh., 44512
  Principal Cites Need For Social, Emotional Learning Center  
  October 6, 2022 Edition  
     Center Intermediate School is planning something new for its more than 800 students, teachers and staff. Plans to convert a second floor auditorium into a new Social Emotional Learning Center are in the works and community partnerships are already helping to pave the way. “Students need to know how to manage negative behaviors, be calm and focused, follow directions, and establish and maintain positive relationships with peers,” said principal Michael Masucci. “Individuals with strong social-emotional skills are better able to cope with everyday challenges. They also benefit academically, professionally, and socially. This SEL Center will be a place to gather and foster these skills.” Decades ago, attendance issues and bullying were at the heart of most conversations about students’ social and emotional learning and mental health. Today’s students, educators, counselors and caregivers face additional issues such as anxiety, cyberbullying, depression, self-harm and even suicide. Creative ways must be developed to address current and future needs, the Boardan Local School District said.
  Boardman Park Board Names Gabe Manginelli Superintendent Upon Retirement Of Dan Slagle  
  October 6, 2022 Edition  
     Boardman Park Executive Director and Clerk Dan Slagle, Boardman Park executive director and clerk, has decided to retire after 50 years of service with the local park district.
      Meeting in September, the park board accepted his resignation and named Gabe Manginelli as the park’s new superintendent, and Angela Davis will serve as clerk.
      During Slagle’s tenure, Boardman Park has grown from a small plot of land for the use of the community into the “Green Oasis,” one of the most unique and popular recreational facilities in the Mahoning Valley. Boardman Park has become a multi-facility recreational greenspace---a place where residents can find nature ‘right next door.’
      Slagle started his career in 1972 as a groundskeeper and was promoted to assistant superintendent in 1988. In 1992 he was appointed to superintendent/clerk.
      “It has truly been a privilege and an honor to serve the community for all these years, especially with so many wonderful and dedicated people, for that I am most grateful.” said Slagle. “I am proud of what we’ve accomplished over the years. Boardman Park is truly a community-built park and is definitely a treasure that we should all be proud of and cherish. It has been the generosity of the community that is responsible for making Boardman Park what it is today.”
      Angela Davis/Gabe Manginelli Promoted
      The Park Board decided to split Slagle’s duties and promote two employees to carry on what Slagle has guided for so long. Park Board Chair Joyce Mistovich announced the promotions saying, “On behalf of my fellow board members, Trent Cailor and Ken Goldsboro, we are pleased to announce that Angela Davis and Gabe Manginelli have been promoted. Angela has been promoted to Clerk and Gabe has been promoted to Superintendent.
      Prior to their new positions, Angela was the Office Manager/Assistant Clerk and Gabe served as Grounds Maintenance Supervisor.”
      “In their previous positions with the Park,” Mistovich continued, “They have proven to be dedicated and hardworking employees. Angela has been with the park for 12 years and Gabe has been with the park for 21 years. Over their tenures, they have played instrumental roles in making the Green Oasis what it is today.”
      Slagle says that he is comfortable with the succession plan,
      “I know that I am leaving The Green Oasis in very capable hands.” he said. “Gabe and Angela understand and believe in the mission of Boardman Park. They are dedicated to serving our community. Based on their experience, dedication to the park and readiness to assume their new roles, we expect a smooth and seamless transition.” added Mistovich.
      Family Support
      While reflecting on his 50 years of service, Slagle thanked his family.
      “My family has always supported and understood my overwhelming dedication to Boardman Park. For their support and understanding, I am so ever thankful. My retirement is long overdue, and I am very much looking forward to enjoying retirement with my precious family, my wife Marilou and our boys, Dewey and Tom.”
     
      PICTURED: NEW LEADERSHIP AT BOARDMAN PARK, following the retirement of Executive Director Dan Slagle, will be two longtime employees of the district. At left is Angela Davis, who will become clerk; and at right is the new superintendent, Gabe Manginelli. They will assume their new positions on Oct. 31.
  Superintendent Says ‘Tweak’ In Tax Levy Renewal Would Stimulate Discussion On Building New School To Replace Center Intermediate  
  “We have to make some decisions...and we can’t even have a conversation until we strengthen our financial picture”:   September 29, 2022 Edition  
     BY JOHN A. DARNELL JR.
      associate editor
      Permanent improvement tax levies could be used in the future to construct a new public school building; an incumbent office-holder and her challenger both said they ‘go to work everyday;’ and a Republican incumbent state senator failed to appear last week at a candidates’ night held at the Lariccia Family Community Center at Boardman Park.
      Boardman Local School Supt. Tim Saxton said, among two renewal issues on the ballot will be a 1.6-mil permanent improvement levy---
      “There’s one, little tweak we’re looking for, asking to make this a continual levy,” the superintendent said, meaning the tax funds raised by approval of the issue would never be voted on again.
      The permanent improvement levy was first approved by the electorate in 1998 and raises about $1.4 million a year, Saxton said.
      “A continual levy…gives us a financial foundation for large capital improvement projects…we can do our own, creative financing and not pass new taxes on anybody,” Saxton said.
      For several years, Boardman Local School officials have discussed abandoning Center Middle School that sits on some 19 acres near the center of Boardman Township. At one point, some suggest that Mernard’s had looked at the property, valued at more than $5 million, but considered the site too small.
      As well, the school board now calls Glenwood Middle School, Boardman High School and Spartan Stadium a ‘campus,’ where a new intermediate school could be constructed.
      “There’s no doubt Center is an aging building…a long-standing tradition…We have to make some decisions about it and we can’t even have a conversation until we strengthen our financial picture,” Saxton said.
      “Going to a continuing levy will allow us to begin some great conversation with our community about what we can do with Center Intermediate School,” he said.
      Saxton added that the school system will also place a 5.8-mil renewal issue on the November ballot. The issue, first approved in 2003, raises about $5 million annually.
      Gino DeFabio, challenger for a seat on the Mahoning County Board of Commissioners, recalled his work history as a Teamster, decried some $27 million in county funds that were spent on at Oak Hill Center in Youngstown (where the Mahoning County Board of Elections is headquartered), and called for a ‘comprehensive audit’ if he was elected.
      “I wanna help you protect your tax dollars,” DiFabio said, claiming he “didn’t see the commissioners working for our county.”
      DiFabio, the Republican challenger, told those in attendance, “I won’t worry about the politics.”
      Incumbent Carol Rimedio-Righetti, a Democrat, has served as a county commissioner since 2011.
      “I go to work everyday. Experience is invaluable and I am proud to run on my record in overseeing this $350 million (county government) corporation,” the incumbent said. “We are prudent with our finances.”
      Rimedio-Righetti said among her priorities are public safety, creation of a justice fund for monies for the sheriff’s department, prosecutor and coroner’s office.
      Among many accomplishments of the board of commissioners while she has served, the commissioner cited creation of a facility to serve developmentally-disabled persons, partnering with the Western Reserve Port Authority to aid economic development in the county, approval of a special district to aid in redevelopment of the Southern Park Mall, distribution of American Relief Act funds to communities throughout the county, and support for infra-structure projects.
      For example, last November, the county board of commissioners approved $1 million in funding for creation of a stormwater park on the site of Market St. Elementary School, Rimedio-Righetti said, adding she has received endorsements from law enforcement and labor groups.
      Judge Eugene Donofrio is seeking re-election to a seat on the Seventh District Court of Appeals. He cited his record of judicial integrity and independence.
      He is opposed by Atty. Mark Hanni, who unsuccessfully ran for a seat on the appellate court a decade ago.
      Hanni said he is a ‘constitutionalist,’ who doesn’t believe the critical race theory or transgenders “should be shoved down our children’s throats.”
      Incumbent State Rep. Al Cutrona, a Republican, seeking reelection to the 58th district Ohio House of Representative seat, said he is able “to reach across the aisle,” noting he has supported funding for law enforcement, schools, nurses and combating the opioid epidemic.
      Cutrona will be opposed by Bruce Neff, a Democrat and a member of Canfield City Council.
      “The dysfunction in our state government makes our state legislature incredibly important, and that’s why I am running,” Neff said. He called the state’s school funding “unconstitutional.”
      Boardman Township Administrator, Jason Loree, said the township will place two renewal issues on the ballot---a 2.2-mil police and fire issue; and a 2.9-mil issue for current expenses.
      He also said bids for the stormwater park at the site of Market St. Elementary School will be opened in October.
      The park will be able to provide some 1,000,000 gallons of water retention during peak storm periods and is designed to alleviate surface water issues for some 1,400 homes, Loree said.
      Once the stormwater park is completed (fall of 2023), Trustees will seek water flow improvements along a water course that extends from Forest Lawn Cemetery to Lake Newport in Mill Creek Park. To date, neither the cemetery or park district has demonstrated a willingness to work with township officials to make improvements along the water course.
      Also addressing the Civic Association forum was Democrat Bob Hagan. seeking a seat at an Ohio State Senator. He is opposing incumbent Republican Sen. Michael Rulli, who failed to show-up at the forum. Hagan spewed party politics, asking those in attendance if they were better off this year than last year, and then spewing a barrage of party politics blaming Republicans for ‘partisan politics.’
      Serving as moderator for the election forum was Mark Luke. The invocation was given by Lauren Johnson.
     
  Southwoods Health Announces In-Home Care Services  
  September 29, 2022 Edition  
     Southwoods Health, headquartered in Boardman, has announced it will begin providing physical, occupational and speech therapy, skilled nursing and social work services in ‘in-home’ settings.
      “We are proud to announce that many of those services will now be conveniently available in your home,’ said Ed Muransky, CEO of Southwoods.
      “We all know the best place to recover from an illness, injury or procedure is in the comfort of your own home,” Muransky, said, adding “Our goal is to provide patients with expert care by offering compassionate support, encouragement and genuine peace of mind for patients and their families.
      “Home health services are so very important to the overall continuum of care for patients. We will provide a service that allows patients to safely remain at home, helping them recover faster, with fewer complications.”
      According to the Southwoods CEO, additional benefits of home health care include:
       •Improving or maintaining a patient’s current condition and/or level of function,
       •Helping manage medications,
       •Assessing current living environments for safety,
       •Recognizing signs and symptoms, which can reduce avoidable hospital re-admissions and expensive hospital bills,
       •Understanding how to appropriately manage chronic conditions,
       •Regaining independence (over time), and
       •Assistance following discharge instructions and/or physician orders.
      Southwoods Health: Southwoods Health is the region’s fastest growing healthcare system and is proud to be locally owned and operated by the Muransky family and area physicians. It includes The Surgical Hospital at Southwoods, an acute care hospital in Boardman; Southwoods Imaging, offering advanced diagnostic imaging services; Southwoods Pain & Spine Center, offering services to treat chronic pain, as well as an advanced spine surgery program; Southwoods Sleep Centers, diagnosing and treating sleep disorders; Southwoods Physician Services, a multi-specialty physician group; and Southwoods Express Care, providing same day, walk-in non-emergent services.
  YSU Dedicates Daniel H. Becker Family Fountain Commons  
  September 22, 2022 Edition  
Daniel H Becker
      The fountain area at the core of the Youngstown State University campus, where students and the community have gathered for decades to study, lunch and socialize, is being named for Daniel H. Becker, chief executive of Becker Funeral Homes, and his family.
      The naming is in recognition of Becker’s $1 million gift to YSU to establish the Daniel H. Becker Family Scholarship.
      “All of us at YSU thank Dan and his family for their ongoing support of the university and the entire Mahoning Valley community,” President Jim Tressel said. “His legacy will live on in perpetuity at this very special place on campus.”
      The annual scholarship will go to a full-time student with a minimum 2.5-grade point average, with a preference for students from Struthers, Becker’s hometown, and who volunteer in their communities.
      “We are proud to be so closely associated with a business and a family that is so well-regarded and respected as the Beckers, whose commitment to the Mahoning Valley dates back more than 100 years,” said Paul McFadden, president of the YSU Foundation.
      The Becker family has been in the funeral profession since 1896; the business now has four locations throughout the Mahoning Valley. Dan Becker, who was educated in the Struthers schools, Mercersburg Academy, YSU and the Pittsburgh Institute of Mortuary Science, began working in the family business as a teenager with his father, Hazen. He joined the business full time in 1961, upon his return from the Army as a Paratrooper Sergeant with the 82nd Airborne Division.
      In 1967, Becker founded Gold Cross Ambulance and Medical Service, and ran the company for 28 years until selling it in 1995. While operating the ambulance company, he was a pioneer in working with the state legislature to establish standards for emergency medical technicians.
      He was president of the Mahoning, Trumbull and Columbiana Funeral Directors Association and a member of the Ohio and National Funeral Directors Associations. Becker is a longtime member and current president of the Ohio Embalmers Association. He also formerly served on the boards of Aqua Ohio and Western Reserve Bank.
      Becker has been an active member of the community. From 1974 to 1978, he was an adjunct faculty member at YSU, teaching first aid and personal safety. Becker also served on the Struthers City Board of Education, and he is a founding member of the Struthers School Foundation for Educational Excellence. He is a former Board member and served as Vice President of the Ohio American Heart Association. He served as a board member for many years for the Mahoning County and Youngstown Libraries, as well as the Better Business Bureau of Youngstown, the Struthers Fire Department and the Dyslexia Learning Center of the Youngstown Scottish Rite.
      Becker is a 33-degree Mason. He served as scout master of Troop 16, is a member of the Struthers Rotary, and is a graduate of Leadership Mahoning Valley. He is a member of the Struthers Parkside Church, formerly known as the Struthers Presbyterian Church, where he has served as a deacon, elder and chairman of the congregation.
      Dan and the former Margaret (Margy) Trucksis were married nearly 54 years before her death in July 2009. They have five children: Kim Horyn of Cape Cod, Mass.; Kandace Becker-Hagendorn and Kelly Becker, both of Poland, Ohio; Kate Becker of Rocky Point, Mass.; and Daniel H. D. Becker of St. Paul, Minn. They also have nine grandchildren. His daughters Kim Horyn, Kelly Becker and Kate Becker, and a grandson, Robert Rumberg, are all graduates of YSU. Becker’s partner of 11 years, Dottie Melody, is a 1962 graduate of Youngstown University with a degree in Education.
      A fountain has been part of the YSU campus since at least 1966, when the Kilcawley Center student union first opened, according to University Archives. The original fountain was in the same approximate location but had three spouts and a shallow pool.
      In 1973, the campus underwent a major expansion, with five new buildings under construction. At that time, the YSU Board of Trustees approved a master landscaping plan that was part of an overall strategy to remove vehicular traffic from the center of campus and create a pedestrian campus core. Construction of the new campus core, with the circles and mounds that still exist today, started in July 1974, and was completed in May 1976.
  Mark Stoops Cements Legacy At Kentucky  
  All-Time Win Record Surpasses Paul ‘Bear’ Bryant:   September 22, 2022 Edition  
Mark Stoops & Family
     Last Saturday was a special day for Kentucky football coach Mark Stoops and his family. Prior to a match-up against Youngstown State, Stoops’ family joined him on field as he was recognized for becoming the Wildcats’ all-time winningest coach. More than 59,000 fans (many wearing ‘Stoops Troops’ t-shirts) in the stands went wild as he and his family were introduced.
      With a victory over the Florida Gators two weeks ago, Stoops earned his 61st victory in Lexington, surpassing Hall of Fame coach Bear Bryant for the program lead.
      After a 31-0 shutout against Youngstown State, the coach addressed what it meant to him to share that moment with his mother, brothers, sisters and children.
      “I really appreciate that and the administration doing that acknowledgement and having my mother there and my brother Bob and all my sisters and brothers,” Stoops said.
      “It was really nice. So it was fun. I’m glad it’s all behind us now and we can concentrate and move on to the next games. But great weekend. Great day. So, that was fun.”
      Stoops took over for the Wildcats in 2013 and holds a 62-53 record since then following Saturday’s victory. Last season, in which the Wildcats finished with a 10-3 record, he became the first coach to lead UK to multiple 10-win seasons.
      Mark Stoops comes from a big football family from Cardinal Mooney High School where they all played on the gridiron under legendary Don Bucci. His brothers, Bob, Mike and Ron were also college football coaches. Bob retired in 2016 after 18 years as head coach Oklahoma (where he won a national championship and is the winningest grid coach in Sonners’ history), while Mike is in his first season working with Mark as the Kentucky linebackers coach. Ron spent several seasons at Youngstown State as an assistant coach. With the family all back together, Stoops said he was looking forward to spending some quality time with them Saturday evening.
      “I’ve got a lot of family and friends here,” Mark said. “We’ll enjoy the evening and spend some time with my family and friends. I’m really appreciative that my whole family got here and was here to share in that. It’s been a fun weekend.”
      Kentucky is currently ranked No. 8 in the AP poll, its highest mark since 2007.
      Pictured, from left, moments before kickoff with Youngstown State are, Mike Stoops, Ron Stoops, Will, Mark and Zach Stoops, Mitch Barnhart, Kentucky athletic director; Bob Stoops, Reenie (Stoops) Farragher and Kathy Stoops.
  Boardman Tennis And Swim Club Recognizes Last Original Member, Judy Sommerlad  
  September 15, 2022 Edition  
      On September 5, the Boardman Tennis and Swim Club honored Mrs. Judy Sommerlad for 59 years of membership in the facility. Judy is the last ‘original’ member who established the club. In 1963 the Boardman-Canfield Swim Club was established after much planning and discussion. The club was originally going to be built on farmland just north of West Boulevard School. The farmland asking price was a bit too high, so the club decided to purchase land where it presently is located on West Boulevard. The 400 original members each paid $350 to purchase stock and begin the construction process. The dues for members were originally $25/year. Judy and her husband, Jack, were the 56th member to buy stock in the new facility. Their stock is numbered and signed by the first president, Robert Froom, and the first secretary, Paul Zellers. The date of Judy’s stock acquisition is July 1, 1963. For 59 straight years, Judy has paid her yearly dues to maintain her membership. The now named Boardman Tennis and Swim Club knows of no other original stock certificates and interested parties may view the stock certificate hanging on the club’s office wall. Judy presented the stock to the club board and current membership at the annual end of the summer picnic on Labor Day. Judy and her husband worked for the government during the Korean War in the Counter Intelligence Bureau in Washington, DC.
  Former Boardman High School Science Teacher, Mike Little, Dies After Achieving Lifetime Milestone Of Riding His Bicycle 80,000 Miles  
  “When you’re in the wilderness, you must listen to the ‘music’ of the woods. It soothes the soul.”:   September 8, 2022 Edition  
     BY JOHN A. DARNELL JR.
      associate editor
      80-year-old Mike Little, who taught earth science and biology classes at Boardman High School from 1972-1999, recently reached a milestone when he rode his bike along the Greenway Trail, from Leetonia to Lisbon, Oh. The end of that ride marked some 80,000 miles Little had ridden on his bicycle in the last 50 years.
      His travels on his bike took him everywhere in America, including a month-long trek in Alaska, from Anchorage to Fairbanks.
      A week ago, Little stopped by The Boardman News to tout his milestone achievement, leaving his phone number if this writer had any questions.
      So, last Friday, a call was made to Little. His wife answered, informing on Wed., Aug. 31, Little died doing what he liked, riding his bicycle on the Little Beaver Trail in Columbiana County.
      He apparently fell and struck his head and never recovered.
      Little had a unique passion, the wilderness, saying “Mother Nature can bring us together. It provides peace of mind, that’s why I like it. When you’re in the wilderness, you must listen to the ‘music’ of the woods. It soothes the soul”
      In addition to his exploits on his two-wheeler, Little also hiked all over America, including such gems as the Long Trail, Appalachain Trail and Pacific Crest Trail.
      Only days before his death, he and his wife, Karen, were set to embark upon a journey to Austria.
      While teaching at Boardman High School, Little organized camping trips for his students.
      “For some, it was a life-changing event,” he said.
      Little was a teacher for 34 years including four years on a Navajo Indian Reservation in Arizona, and 27 years at Boardman High School.
      Mike was also a National Park Ranger and worked at Wind Cave National Park, Colorado National Monument and Arches National Park.
      He also earned his pilot’s license and flew small airplanes in the 1990’s.
      He served in the Air Force Reserves and was a member of the Benjamin Firestone Post #290 American Legion. He was also active in many clubs including, Nature Conservancy, National Geographic Society, Sierra Club and the Sebring Model Railroad Club.
      Mr. Little is survived by his wife, the former Karen Conkle, whom he married on June 3, 1967; his daughter, Sarah (Glenn) Forney of Boise, Idaho and Molly (Dwight) Pavek of Albuquerque, New Mexico; seven grandchildren; three great-grandchildren and siblings David Little and Rosemary Deioma.
      He was a member of St. Patrick’s Catholic Church in Leetonia.
      Mike was born on August 1, 1942 in Dover, the son of the late Charles and Irene Monti Little.
     
      PHOTO OF MIKE LITTLE along the Greenway Trail just after completing a 50-year journey of 80,000 miles riding his bicycle.
     
  Under Dan Slagle’s Leadership Boardman Park Has Prospered  
  Has Served As Director For 40 Years:   September 8, 2022 Edition  
     BY JOHN A. DARNELL JR.
      associate editor
      Boardman Park observed its 75th anniversary on Sat., Aug. 27 with a host of activities where more than 10,000 people flocked to Boardman Township’s ‘green oasis’ of more than 200 acres.
      Among the most unique features at Boardman Park is its executive director, Dan Slagle Jr., who tenure has stretched over four decades in serving as director of the park’s operations, and indeed, Boardman Park has prospered under his leadership
      Slagle, 71, has spent his entire life working at Boardman Park, some 50 years. He was first hired under Supt. Ivor Jenkins, and when John Holzbach retired in 1992, Slagle became superintendent, pledging to improve programming and open-up the park to more people.
      Today, more than 500,000 people go to Boardman Park every year---wether just to enjoy the solitude and green spaces, for weddings and class reunions, the Oktoberfest, annual Community Christmas and Holiday Light Display, summer concerts or annual Fourth of July events.
      “Remember, the park has only been able to grow because the community supports us, including the many donors who have helped us grow. It is truly special,” Slagle says.
      Boardman Park is still funded by a 1-mil levy, the same millage that created the park in 1948.
      “Of all the things I am most proud of, we have been able to build the park into what it is today on virtually the same funding we had when the park was created,” Slagle observed this week.
      He noted all the improvements could not have been made without strong community involvement.
      There were the hundreds of people who joined as volunteers to build Kids Town; the Tony Lariccia family provided major funding to build a grand community center.
      “There are so many people who have helped create the park,” Slagle said, mentioning William F. Maag, Martha Roepke, Tom Masters Sr., C.R. Smith Jr. and Joseph Sylvester Sr. and the Boardman Rotary Club as among the many who have provided support over the years.
      Slagle recalled the development of the Maag Outdoor Arts Theater with some amazement.
      “One day a community resident, Martha Roepke, walked into my office and said she wanted to do something in honor of William F. Maag (who donated the original acreage to form the park),” Slagle said. She provided the major funding to build the theater and Jose Sylvester Sr. donated much of the labor.
      “We were still short of funds and I began researching potential donors. One day, I called Clarence Smith, whom I had never met before, and told him of the situation.
      “Right on the spot he pulled out his checkbook and wrote a check that covered the final construction costs.
      “I love Boardman Park. The rewards I have received serving the community and developing the park district have filled my lifetime,” Slagle observed.
      Slagle is a life-long resident of Boardman Township, and a 1969 graduate of Boardman High School.
      Upon graduation, he worked at the Youngstown Sheet & Tube Co. as a loader in the Butt Weld Shipping Department, which for a young suburbanite was a very enlightening experience.
      While working at Youngstown Sheet & Tube, he enrolled at Youngstown State University, pursuing a degree in Biology/Pre-Forestry.
      In 1972, he started his career at Boardman Township Park as a groundskeeper. While working at the park, he earned an associate’s degree in Natural Science from YSU and continued his academic career at YSU, earning a bachelor of science degree in Combined Science.
      Slagle was promoted to Assistant Superintendent of Boardman Park in 1988, with the primary responsibility of planning and overseeing the maintenance of the grounds and facilities. During his tenure as assistant superintendent he developed an extensive grounds maintenance and landscape programs, which included a comprehensive display of annual and perennial flowers, and a long-term tree planting and maintenance program, with emphasis on the preservation and re-establishment of native hardwoods. The realization of these programs has resulted in a widely acclaimed recognition as a Park that is beautifully landscaped and as the “Green Oasis” of the community.
      The Board of Park Commissioners appointed Slagle as the Superintendent/Clerk in June, 1992. His first project was to research and develop the first-ever master plan for the Park District.
      In the more than four decades since, more than 20 major improvements have evolved from the master plan, with a value of over $6.5 million.
      “The primary funding, 80 per cent, for these improvements has been donations of volunteer time, materials, and money, coupled with government grants,” Slagle notes.
      In 2000, Boardman Park was selected as the host site from a four-county area by the Ohio Department of Natural Resources and the Office of Governor, when then Gov. Robert Taft awarded $560,000 in NatureWorks and Land and Water Conservation Fund grants to 13 public entities, with Boardman Park receiving a lions share of $131,122, for its West Quadrant Improvement project.
      Gov. Taft in his presentation remarked “Boardman Park is one of the finest small parks in the state.”
      That same year, Slagle was awarded the Boardman Civic Association’s Community Service Award.
      In 2014, Slagle was honored by The Ohio Parks & Recreation Association’s with its Harvey Woods Lifetime Achievement Award.
      Boardman Park’s executive director is a member of the Ohio Parks and Recreation Association and the National Recreation and Park Association. His civic involvement includes-Past President of the Boardman Civic Association, member of the Boardman Rotary Club, past president of the Kiwanis Club of Uptown Youngstown; a co-chair of the Boardman Township Bicentennial Committee; past vestry member and chairman of the properties committee, St. John’s Episcopal Church; past president and life member Men’s Garden Club of Youngstown; Mahoning Valley Landscaping and Nursery Association.
      In July, 1987, appropriately, he married his wife, the former Marilou Bonte, during ceremoies held in Olde St. James Meeting House in the park. They have two sons, Daniel, III (Dewey), and Tom.
      Boardman Park Under Slagle
       •Master Plan - Initiated, researched, designed, drafted, and successfully implemented the 1992 Master Plan for the park and the community it serves, which resulted in approximately $6.5 million in capital improvements, with the majority of the funds (approximately 80%) necessary for its success generated by the following revenue streams: local, state and federal grants; donations and sponsorships from individuals, businesses, and foundations; and the balance (approximately 20%) from the park’s capital budget. The completion of the Master Plan fostered the following recreational assets for the community:
       •Kids’ Town Creative Playground, Robert Leathers Community Built Concept constructed by more than 3000 volunteers.
       •Tot’s Town Playground, community built, initiated by local Realtor, John Burgan.
       •Maag Outdoor Arts Theatre.
       •Elton Beard Family Cabin, funded by an ODNR Nature Works Grant. Major contributor, Elton and Christina Beard.
       •Kenneth Hofmaster Pavilion, community built concept.
       •Hike & Bike Trail.
       •Main Septic system that eliminated an antiquated on-site Leech Bed system and the connection to a public sanitary system at the Shops at Boardman Park. Major contributors, David Handel and Chuck Bishara.
       •West Quadrant Improvements Project that included the Thomas C. Masters Pavilion w/restrooms, a 300-car lighted parking lot, and landscaping funded by a LWCF grant.
       •Two sand volleyball courts.
       •Practice tennis wall.
       •Acquisition of 35 acres of greenspace that increased the size of Boardman Park to 227 acres, with 40 acres of Open Space property located in seven areas of Boardman Township.
       •Renovation of Kids’ Town Playground with plastic lumber made from recycled materials, funded by a Green Team recycling grant.
       •Exterior renovation of St. James Meeting House.
       •Veterans Memorial project developed in conjunction with Boardman Trustee Elaine Mancini.
       •Historical Village Septic System that eliminated an on-site leech bed/holding tank system and the connection to a public sanitary system at the Shops at Boardman Park.
       •West Quadrant Phase II, including the Lariccia Family Bocce Pavilion, ADA accessible playground and the asphalt paving of the 300-car parking lot, funded by an ODNR NatureWorks Grant and ODNR Scrap Tire Grant for Paving of Parking Lot. Major contributor, Anthony Lariccia.
       •The Lariccia Family Community Center Phase I, the renovation and expansion of the 33-year old Community Center. Major contributors, Anthony Lariccia, Boardman Rotary Club, Kennedy Family Trust/SJK Trust, Helen Stambaugh.
       •Exterior renovation of the Oswald Detchon House, a local historic landmark.
       •North Trail project, an 8-foot wide paved ADA accessible walkway that travels parallel to the main drive in the park and connects all park facilities, as well as connecting to existing nature trail system, four miles of trails, funded by an ODNR Recreational Trail Grant
       •Renovation and expansion of the Georgeanna Parker Activity Center.
       •Marge Hartman’s Paws Town at Boardman Park, developed in conjunction with a non-profit committee, Friend of Paws Town, Inc., organized by Boardman Township Administrator Jason Loree and his wife, Abbey that led to the development of a 3.25-acre dog park, designed for dogs to exercise and play off-leash in a controlled environment under the supervision of their owners
       •Departmentalized maintenance operations, delineating daily duties and responsibilities; which resulted in more efficient and effective operations.
       •Web site and online reservations.
       •Military concerts and fireworks. Upon the completion of the Maag Outdoor Arts Theatre, initiated and established the annual Military Band Concerts and fireworks displays. He encouraged and eventually convinced the U.S. Army Field Band and Soldiers Chorus to perform at the park for the first time in 1996, and nurtured the relationship over the years to where the park is now part of their Summer schedule. Additionally, Slagle developed a relationship with the B.J. Alan Fireworks Co., headed by Boardman native Bruce Zoldan, where they are now one of the park’s annual sponsors.
       •Haunted Hay Rides and Family Night events.
       •Pepsi Vending and Donations. Under Slagle, Boardman Park initiated and implemented the placement of Pepsi vending machines within the park as a new revenue stream. As part of the Vending Machine agreement, Pepsi donated to Capital Projects (Maag Theatre, $6,000) and Kids’ Town awnings ($3,000) and a $1,000 annual sponsorship.
      “Most importantly, Boardman Park is about our community,” Slagle said this week. All of the improvements during his lengthy tenure have been the result of community involvement and gives the park a unique niche, where volunteerism and donations have played such a key role in the development of Boardman Park.
     
      PHOTO: BOARDMAN PARK’S Executive Director, Dan Slagle Jr., pictured, has worked his entire adult life at the Green Oasis.
     
  Weather Event Sept 4 2022  
  September 6, 2022 Edition  
     In response to the severe weather event that was responsible for flash flooding throughout various neighborhoods and a EF0 Tornado in Boardman Township, Mahoning County Ohio, Boardman Township is asking residents who experienced damage related to the storm to use the dedicated number of 330-716-0038 and leave your name, address, phone number and type of damage to property. We are collecting this information in conjunction with the Mahoning County Emergency Management Office to try and get a disaster declaration.
      Please keep any photo or video of storm damage. As this process develops further assessment teams may contact those who call-in for on-site visits.
  School Safety Topic At Sept. 15 Forum  
  September 1, 2022 Edition  
     School Safety will be the topic of the first Boardman Local Schools
      Community Dialogue, whose purpose is to inform the community at large of the various issues and concerns facing us all. The forum will be held
      Thursday, September 15, from 6:30 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. in Fellowship Hall at Boardman United Methodist Church, 6809 Market St. Presenting the School Safety topic will be Tim Saxton, Boardman Schools Superintendent; Mike Sweeney, School Resource Officer; and Chief Todd Werth, of the Boardman Police. After the presentation, there will be a question-and-answer time
      period. The Community Dialogue will return on November 3 and February 9 to discuss other topics of interest with professionals in the area. The forums are open to the public.
  Boardman Park Celebrates 75 Years!  
  ‘The park has evolved into one of the most unique and popular recreation areas in the Mahoning Valley’:   September 1, 2022 Edition  
     BY JOHN A. DARNELL JR.
      associate editor
      Boardman Park’s 75th anniversary celebration drew more than 10,000 persons last Saturday to Boardman Township’s ‘Green Oasis.’
      The park was founded in Nov., 1947, when voters approved its formation by a 4-1 vote; followed by a 1-mil tax levy in 1948. The levy to this day, still provides the bulk of funding for the park district’s estimated $1.3 million annual budget.
      Prior to its formation, the land on which the park sits was part of a 123-acre site of what the federal government called ‘surplus federal lands.’ Boardman Township purchased the property for $14,500 in 1946, and then turned around and sold the land to William F. Maag Jr. (WFMJ), who needed 51 acres to build a transmitter for his radio station. He then donated the rest of the property back to Boardman Township for the establishment of Boardman Park.
      Named as the first commissioners to Boardman Park were Ralph P. Smith, Lewis Barger and Atty. Hugh Manchester., who along with architect H. Walter Damon and architect/engineer Chet Long. surveyed the property and began to develop plans for a park, including the main drive that still serves the park today.
      A major addition to Boardman Park was completed in 1972, when St. James Church was moved from the center of the township to the front entrance of the park. The church, built in 1829, is among the oldest Episcopal church structures east of the Mississippi River.
      In its early years, there were two pavilions, a winter ice skating rink and a baseball field, that along with all its woods, were the main features of the park. The ‘big event’ each year was the annual Memorial Day ceremonies that were held around the flag pole.
      The park’s main ballfield, located near where the Maag Outdoor Arts Theater is today, served as home field for the Boardman Spartans baseball team. In the 1960s, famed NFL quarterback Joe Namath played baseball on that field as a member of the Beaver Falls High School diamond team.
      In 1949, Homer V. Holl Sr. was named as the first superintendent of Boardman Park. Chuck Wedekind served as superintendent from 1951 to 1956, when Ivor Jenkins took over the reigns. It was under Jenkins and park commissioners Phil Prosser, Frank Showalter and Frank Mastriana that St. James Church found its new home, gracing the entrance to Boardman Park and all who pass by on heavily-traveled Rt. 224.
      Jenkins served until 1975 when John Holzbach took over the superintendent’s duties.
      Under Holzbach, Boardman Park began to develop an historical village that today includes the Beardsley-Walter Diehm house, the Oswald Detch House and the Schiller-Chuey summer kitchen.
      In addition, the gazebo that stands in the park today, was constructed, and the Georgeanna Parker Activity Center that houses the park district’s offices was constructed in 1976, the same year the annual Music in the Park concerts were begun.
      Holzbach drew the ire of Township Trustees in the early 1990s, when concerns were aired about park funds being spent on a private collection of nature books. He was replaced by Daniel Slagle Jr., who has directed Boardman Park’s operations since 1992.
      Under Slagle, the park district has prospered and greatly expanded its programming. Use of the park today draws more than 500,000 visitors annually, including at its biggest annual event, the Boardman Rotary Oktoberfest.
      The Oktoberfest might never have been held, as when first proposed, park directors expressed concern that so many in people in the park at one time could damage its landscaping.
      However, in 1976, Boardman Township held its Bicentennial Celebration at Boardman Park and the event drew upwards of 15,000 people---paving the way the next year for the first Oktoberfest.
      When Slagle took over the duties of leading Boardman Park, he proposed a mission statement that was approved by the Board of Commissioners, providing guidance for the many improvements under his tenure.
      That mission statement called for the park district “to provide a diversity of recreational and educational opportunities in an environment that lends itself to pleasant family experiences.”
      For example, in 1993, Kids Town Playground was completed with the help of a large outpouring of community support, including hundreds of volunteers who built the playground.
      In 1994, a hike and bike trail was completed, and in 1996, the Maag Outdoor Arts Theater was built. A year later, the Elton Beard family cabin and Hofmaster Pavilion was built.
      Today, Boardman Park not only encompasses its original acreage, but also includes seven ‘open space’ lands scattered throughout Boardman Township, as well as the Southern Park Stables and the Clarence Smith Homestead (both located by Washington Blvd.).
      In 1972, when Slagle began his career at Boardman Park, serving as commissioners were Frank Mastriana, George Economus and Phil Prosser. Others who served on the park board during Slagle’s tenure are Tom Masters, Janie Jenkins, Mark Luke, Jack Russell, Gwen Smith, Dr. Robert Johnson and Josh Zarlenga; as well as current commissioners Joyce Mistovich, Trent Cailor and Ken Goldsboro.
      In remarks at last Saturday’s celebration, Joyce Mistovich, chairperson of the park’s board of commissioners noted “With support from the public and our visitors, Boardman Park has evolved into one of the most unique and popular recreation areas in the Mahoning Valley.
      “Boardman Park has grown tremendously over these 75 years [and] all of this has occurred as we have been operating on the equivalent of a one-mil levy for 74 years.”
  Grant Will Provide $435,200 In Bonuses To The 61 Officers Of The Boardman Police Department  
  ‘Boardman Township has not been immune to the effects of the national increases in violent crime....Violence in the community has increased since the pandemic began’:   August 25, 2022 Edition  
     BY JOHN A. DARNELL JR.
      associate editor
      The Boardman Police Department has received a $628,358.56 grant from the Ohio Violent Crime Reduction Grant Program, Gov. Mike DeWine announced last week.
      The bulk of the funding, some $435,200 is set aside for “retention bonuses” for the 61-member Boardman Police Department and the staff of 15 persons who work in the township’s dispatching department. The bonuses will be paid of over a two-year period and range from a $3,500 yearly bonus to senior members of the department to $2,000 for lesser-serving officers. The township’s dispatchers will receive yearly bonuses between $2,400 annually to $1,500 annually depending on their term of service.
      Earlier this year, Trustees Brad Calhound, Larry Moliterno and Tom Costello approved bonues of $1,250 for all township employee, using funds provided by the American Rescue Act.
      Additionally, $36,000 is designated for law enforcement hiring bonuses for 12 new police officers, according to the grant application provided to The Boardman News by the Ohio Department of Public Safety.
      Another $137,158 is ear-marked for two, new police officers, and $20,000 is directed for a video recording system that will update the department’s current system.
      Governor DeWine, in partnership with the Ohio General Assembly, created the Ohio Violent Crime Reduction Grant Program to give local law enforcement additional tools to address violence, including increases in crime associated with law enforcement retirements and resignations.
      The program is funded through both the state operating budget and with American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA) funds dedicated to first responders to counter various pressing issues exacerbated by the COVID-19 pandemic, including violent crime. The grant announced last week is funded through ARPA.
      According to the grant application, violence in the Boardman community has increased since the pandemic began.
      “Boardman Township has not been immune to the effects of the national increases in violent crime.
      “During the COVID-19 pandemic, our jurisdiction experienced an increase in violent crimes similar to what has occurred nationally.
      “Specifically in Boardman Township, felonious assaults have increased 33% from 2019 to 2020; rape was up 28% from 2019 to 2021; robberies increased 17% from 2019 to 2020; and aggravated burglaries increased 85% from 2019 to 2021,” says the grant application.
      Additionally, the application notes “Boardman, like so many other communities, has had its share of difficulties during the pandemic.
      “From 2019 to 2021, there was a nearly 200% increase in the amount of drug overdoses and a nearly 400% increase in overdose deaths in
      Boardman Township.
      “The increase of illicit drug activity with the resulting increase in overdoses during the pandemic has had a direct impact on [the Boardman] community and safety services resources.”
      Lead author of the grant was longtime Boardman policeman, Lt. John Allsopp.
      Narrative
      A narrative provided within the grant application, says the following-----
      “As in many parts of the country, the coronavirus pandemic has had multiple adverse impacts on our local community in Boardman Township, Ohio. The Boardman Police Department’s ability to safely complete our stated mission and also keep our officers and employees safe and well has been made increasingly difficult. In addition to the daily requirements of responding to calls for service, conducting proactive enforcement operations, training and administrative tasks, we have had to put into place many measures to mitigate the risks that the pandemic posed. This has increased the level of stress on our employees and adversely impacted on our ability to adequately address violent crime in a proactive manner. To compound this problem, the nation has seen the rate of aggravated assaults increase nearly 12% between 2019 and 2020, with a stated increase in overall violent crime increasing in the country of over 5%. “As our crime statistics have shown, Boardman is certainly not immune to the effects of these national increases in violent crime. Boardman Township...is a suburb directly south of the city of Youngstown. The target population that will immediately benefit from this Violence Reduction (including the purchase of vital technology and equipment) and retention bonuses, incentives, and activities initiative are not just the 40,889 (2010 census data) residents of Boardman Township, that as the economic hub of Mahoning County, is estimated by traffic studies to have a daily service population of approximately 100,000 between the hours of 9 a.m. and 9 p.m.
      “The most recent data available for the demographics of Boardman Township reveal ...9.9% of Boardman Township residents live in
      poverty.
      “To the north and west of Boardman Township, is a direct boundary with Youngstown, which has approximately 66,500 residents...Some 38% of the population lives below the poverty line, the third highest poverty rate among U.S. cities.
      “Youngstown is also the only U.S. city where more than half of all households earn less than $25,000 a year. The low incomes are reflected in the city’s low property values. The typical home in Youngstown is worth just $43,300, less than a quarter of the national median home value of $205,000.
      “Like many poor cities, crime rates are high in Youngstown. There were 3,780 property crimes for every 100,000 city residents in 2016, well above the national property crime rate of 2,451 per 100,000.
      “Again, as the major retail and shopping hub of the area, many Youngstown residents travel to Boardman Township.
      “Proactively addressing violent crime is not only a focus and absolute necessity for Boardman Township, but also as it directly impacts the well-being of our surrounding communities as well.
      “The increase in overdoses and overdose deaths...is compounded as that activity is closely associated with other related conduct to include both crimes of violence and property crimes in [Boardman].
      One area of note which will be a focus using any resources obtained through this grant is the identifying, developing investigations, and disrupting instances of human trafficking (prostitution). Boardman has five motels and six hotels concentrated in two areas of the township.
      “To address the general instances of violent crime, to include specifically targeting human trafficking (prostitution), we will utilize this grant funding to expand a marked patrol presence, along with initiating an unmarked presence
      in identified problem areas.
      “In addition to increased enforcement, we will leverage existing relationships with non-governmental agencies to identify and link victims of human trafficking to services .
      “Some specific objectives [the Boardman Police Department] would like to achieve are overall, reduce the percentages of all violent crime in all listed areas where we had an increase from 2019. Specifically, reduce robberies and aggravated burglaries by 5% in 2022 and an additional 10% each in 2023---Achieved through additional targeted patrols, funded through this grant, in neighborhood and business districts identified as having high instances of these crimes. These patrols will also facilitate a quicker response to other instances of violent crime which will positively impact deterrence and the likelihood of initiating arrests at the scene of these occurrences.
      “[The Boardman Police Department] would want to proactively initiate seven new investigations into human trafficking (prostitution) instances in 2022, and an additional thirteen in 2023, with the objective of identifying and pursuing an investigation into instances focusing on tying them to individuals or groups perpetrating human trafficking (prostitution) operations in [Boardman] and surrounding communities.
      “Being freed from responding to calls for service, the additional targeted patrols will focus on officer interaction with the public in the affected areas. We will further work with community-based organizations to facilitate identifying and linking victims of violent crime to available services, including the Coalition for a Drug-Free Mahoning County, the Mahoning County Mental Health and Recovery Board, and Compass Family and Community Services that offers support for domestic abuse , sexual assault, and other victims of violent crime.
      “With the added focused patrols, we will have the ability and time to interact, respond, and meet with community block watch programs and business associations to foster relationships to better address and respond to violent crimes.
      “In May 2021, the U.S Treasury Department announced the State of Ohio would receive aid as part of President Biden’s coronavirus relief package. However, after issues arose about including Ohio townships in this funding, it was determined that Boardman would get just over $4 million over two years.
      “...To put it in further perspective, the city of Youngstown is set to receive approximately $82.7 million in funding through American Rescue Plan Funding.
      “That money obviously goes directly to issues within the city of Youngstown, while again a significant number of their residents work and visit Boardman on a daily basis. This grant gives Boardman the ability to proactively address and reduce violent crime for the residents of several area communities to include the citizens of the of Youngstown and other surrounding areas.”
      The grant application notes that “The population that is going to served will be both residents of Boardman and also the surrounding communities which rely heavily on [Boardman Township] for important services to include medical care, groceries, jobs, and other important necessities,
      “The planned initiative in the two hotel/motel districts [in Boardman] will be focused to identify and intercede with the most vulnerable victims from both the extended Youngstown metropolitan area and those traveling interstate.
      “One concentration of motels in Boardman is adjacent to Youngstown, with the hotels in another section being adjacent to and frequented by those traveling along an interstate highway cutting through [Boardman].
      Each area is prone to instances of human trafficking (prostitution), drug activity, and other violent crime that this grant provides an opportunity to specifically and consistently address, while still maintaining the ability to address calls for service and a proactive presence necessitated by the issues aggravated by the pandemic.
      “...The total target population including Boardman Township that could potentially benefit from this violence reduction initiative could very well impact an area up to 3,479 square miles and serves 909,522 residents (2010 census data).
      Bonus for Police and Dispatchers
      According to the grant application, “In setting goals and priorities to reduce violent crime in the community, which has been exasperated by the pandemic, we are additionally cognizant of the impact that reduced hiring and retention issues have and the challenges that they present in addressing violence in Boardman. The Boardman Police Department (BPD) has recently lost a multitude of police officers and other employees, who have left the agency for higher paying jobs.
      “A focus of the request for grant funding is to increase staffing presence that address specifically the victims of violent crime.
      ‘Retention incentives/bonuses can only be paid if there is a likelihood of the employees leaving without the incentives/bonuses.
      “Since January 2020, the BPD has lost at least 11 employees, with several more expected in the near future. These losses can be attributed to the increased stress of the job during the pandemic and the increasingly competitive job market in the country. The frequency of these losses has affected over 10% of our work force so far and is expected to continue and likely increase.
      “The high turnover of experienced trained law enforcement personnel directly impacts on our ability to both reactively and proactively respond to violent crime in our community. If unabated, it will result in increasing instances of crime, an inability to investigate and disrupt the most egregious repeat offenders, and an inability to focus on better assisting victims of crime. An incentive bonus program, as allowed for in this grant, has an immediate direct positive impact on our ability to retain valued personnel and immediately effects our ability to address violent crime issues.”
     
  Mayo Realtors Raise Money For DSAV  
  August 4, 2022 Edition  
      ASSOCIATES AND STAFF AT Mayo and Associates Realtors, of Boardman, held a fundraising event to not only raise money for a great cause, but to also give a lucky winner (Nicole Haggerty), tickets to see Luke Bryan in concert. The staff raised $2500 for the Down Syndrome Association of the Valley (DSAV) and the lucky winner not only saw Luke Bryan in concert at Wean Park but also enjoyed a pre-show dinner at Bistro 1907. The staff was very excited to present DSAV with their check at their recent annual summer sales awards luncheon at Tippecanoe Country Club. Pictured, from left, Charley Althof, Rachel Liguore, Bob Roberts, John McCarthy, Dan Durkin, Michael Duponty, Emily Estok, Jack Fergus, Petrina Antonucci, Christina Pascarella, Carole McTigue, Amy Walp and Erin Zumbar.
  Suspect In Catalytic Converter Theft Avoids Arrest, Walks Out Of Hospital  
  July 7, 2022 Edition  
     BY JOHN A. DARNELL JR.
      associate editor
      A suspect in the theft of a catalytic converter avoided his arrest last week by walking out of Mercy Health/Youngstown where he was lodged under a ‘police hold.’
      Leslie James Tate, 35, of 107 North Belle Vista, Youngstown, had been taken to the hospital for treatment of a staff infection, after he was charged with theft of a catalytic converter, criminal damaging and possession of drug abuse instruments on June 30.
      When first charged, police transported Tate to the Mahoning County Jail.
      “Tate was declined lodging due to a leg infection and was taken to Mercy Health/Youngstown,” Ptl. William Woods said.
      At Mercy Health/Youngstown, the medical staff in the emergency department told police that Tate had a staff infection in his right calf, and advised he would need to be admitted to treat his injuries, Ptl. Troy Mackall said, adding that Mercy Health PD was advised a ‘police hold’ was placed on Tate.
      “I further advised Tate he was not to leave the hospital prior to being transported to the Mahoning County Jail, or he would face an additional charge of escape,” Officer Mackall said.
      Eight hours later, at 10:00 p.m., police were told Tate escaped from Mercy Health.
      “BPD dispatch advised that Mercy Health Main Campus PD called, stating that Tate ‘walked out’ of the hospital approximately an hour ago,” Ptl. Earl Neff said.
      Tate came to the attention of Boardman police following a call about 10:20 a.m. on June 30 that a catalytic converter was being stolen from a vehicle in the rear parking lot of the Little Greek restaurant, 220 Boardman-Canfield Rd.
      When police went to the call, they spoke with a U.S. Postal Service mail carrier who said he had seen a man “running between apartments” on nearby Locust Ave.
      During a canvass of the area, Sgt. Paul Grimes found a blue and white bag that contained a catalytic converter and a battery-powered saw. Police also located surveillance footage that showed a man crawling underneath a car.
      About two hours later, police received a tip that a man had been spotted ‘looking through car ports’ on Locust Ave., and the man was also going door-to-door, asking people if they had seen the blue and white bag.
      While checking the tip, Ptl. Patrick Klingensmith observed a car leaving an apartment building lot of Locust Ave. The vehicle was stopped and the driver was identified as Walter Colon. A front seat passenger was identified as Dessie Howell, 30, of 129 Jean St., Campbell, Oh. Police said in the rear seat was Tate.
      “When Howell was ordered out of the front passenger seat, he reached over his left side and was fidgeting with something between the seat and center console...A loaded firearm (9mm handgun) was...located between the seat and console,” Ptl. Mike Dado said.
      Colon told police he is a “private-type Uber driver” who had been contacted by Howell to pick him up on Louis St. in Youngstown, and then ‘pick-up some friends’ and take them to a motel in Trumbull County.
      “He advised that he picked Howell up...[and]...took him to a motel in Boardman where they picked-up Tate, whom he did not know; then took ‘them’ to an apartment on Locust Ave. where Tate got out and started looking in a dumpster.”
      A female told police she is Tate’s girlfriend and they had been staying at the Wagon Wheel Motel in Boardman.
      She told police she had ‘walked to the store and just got back’ to their motel room when Tate told her ‘he needed to go somewhere to get something off a guy.’
      Police said a witness to the theft of the catalytic converter “positively” identified Tate as a suspect in the theft.
      Police said a search of the vehicle that had been stopped coming out of a Locust Ave. parking lot turned-up a “hypodermic needle on the rear seat where Tate was seated.” Tate was additionally charged with possession of a drug abuse instrument.
      Police said Howell has a record as a convicted felon, and when placed under arrest, Ptl. Dado said the suspect was concealing something in his hand.
      “The white substance was field-tested positive as 10.3 grams of fentynal,” Ptl. Jamison Diglaw said.
      Howell was charged with having weapons under a disability, improper handling of a firearm in a motor vehicle and felony possession of drugs and taken to the county jail pending his appearance in court.
      Tate, as well as a woman identified Shayla Patrice Demar, 29, are facing charges for reportedly stealing the catalytic converter from a car parked in a hospital parking lot in New Castle, Pa. in March.
  School Board Will Place Two Levies On Nov. 8 Ballot  
  July 7, 2022 Edition  
     Meeting last week, the Boardman Local School Board approved two resolutions indicating their intent to place two renewal tax levies on the Nov. 8 general election ballot---a 5.9 mil tax issue for current expenses, and a 1.6 mil issue for permanent improvements.
      The current expense 5.9 mil levy, first passed in 2003, generates approximately $4.97 million. The 1.6 mil levy, first passed in 1988, generates approximately $1.37 million
      The school board also approved an appropriations resolution report for fiscal year 2022 showing that total appropriations for the school district between July 2021 and June 2022 totaled $69.049 million.
  Endowed Chair At YSU Honors Nancy Landgraff  
  June 30, 2022 Edition  
Nancy Landgraff
     ‘I have had the opportunity to lead an extraordinary faculty and students who very much have earned this
      recognition right beside me’
     
      Nancy Landgraff, 62, of Ron Joy Place, Boardman, whose leadership has brought national and statewide accolades to Youngstown State University’s Department of Physical Therapy, is the second President James P. Tressel Endowed Chair in Leadership.
      “Dr. Landgraff’s hard work, expertise and her commitment to the physical therapy profession over the course of 25 years at YSU has transformed PT into one of the university’s most successful academic programs,” said Brien Smith, provost, who made the appointment. “We are fortunate to have someone of Nancy’s caliber and passion here at YSU.”
      The endowed chair was created in 2021 through a $1.6 million gift from a group of YSU Foundation trustees in recognition of Tressel’s leadership at YSU and across the region. The honor is bestowed annually on a YSU department chair with an established record of outstanding leadership. The award also comes with a stipend and expenses to support development and growth of the department. Nancy Wagner, chair of the YSU Centofanti School of Nursing, was the first recipient.
      “During her 25 years at Youngstown State University, Nancy has had numerous accomplishments across all academic realms, including in teaching, research and scholarship, and university, community and national service,” Jeffery Allen, dean of the YSU Bitonte College of Health and Human Services, said in his nomination letter.
      Landgraff, who holds a PhD in Rehabilitation Sciences from the University of Pittsburgh, said she was humbled by the appointment. “At YSU, I have had the opportunity to lead an extraordinary faculty and students who very much have earned this recognition right beside me,” she said. “For all of them, I am truly grateful.”
      Landgraff, who also holds a bachelor’s in Physical Therapy from the University of Pittsburgh and a master’s in Health Science from the University of Florida, worked nearly 15 years in the PT profession before joining the YSU faculty in 1997, becoming chair in 2012.
      Under Landgraff’s leadership, the YSU Doctor of Physical Therapy program has been named the statewide Program of the Year for two consecutive years (2020 and 2021) by the Ohio Physical Therapy Association, besting the state’s 10 other PT programs to receive the award.
      The YSU DPT, a 2.5-year full-time doctoral program started in 2008, has grown from annual cohorts of 19 students to annual cohorts of 45 students. The program has graduated 376 students, including 35 at Spring Commencement this past May.
      As chair, Landgraff also oversaw the renovation and expansion of PT training and academic spaces in Cushwa Hall, and she supported the development of a new PhD program in Health Sciences and a new master’s program in Health and Human Services, both of which continue to grow.
      Landgraff’s scholarly work is extensive, including nearly three dozen academic presentations across the world, from New Orleans to the Netherlands, San Diego to China. She has received more than two dozen research grants totaling nearly $100,000 and authored seven peer-reviewed scholarly articles and three abstracts. She also provides editorial/manuscript review for several scholarly journals related to neurological and cardiovascular disease as well as the Archives of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation.
      Landgraff’s community service is equally extensive, volunteering for Walk With a Doc, the Marquette Challenge (for PT research), Where There’s a Wheel There’s a Way (accessibility awareness), Women in Science and Relay for Life. She had held leadership positions with the Ohio Physical Therapy Association, the America Heart/America Stroke Association in Mahoning County and Ohio Living-Park Vista Retirement Center. She also has served as a PT consultant for Steward Health/Hillside Rehabilitation Hospital in Warren.
      Landgraff also has an extensive list of honors, including an Excellence Award for Department Chairperson in Teaching, Phi Kappa Phi Honorary Society, YSU Watson Merit Award for Academic Leadership, YSU Distinguished Professor Awards for Public Service and for Scholarship, the American Physical Therapy Association’s Dorothy Briggs Memorial Scientific Inquiry Award and Ohio Physical Therapy Association Research Committee’s Recognition for Contribution to Research
  NEW CENTURION - James G. Nagle Celebrates 100th Birthday  
  June 30, 2022 Edition  
James G Nagle & Family
     NEW CENTURION---The family of James G. Nagle, of Pinetree Lane, honored him last Saturday at Boardman Park where he was feted on his 100th birthday. Mr. Nagle was born July 12, 1922 and is a retired school teacher at Lowellville High School where he taught science classes. His wife, the former Lenore McLaughlin Kerrigan Nagle, passed away on June 17, 2010. Pictured, from left, surrounding Mr. Nagle are Pat Kerrigan, Maureen Kerrigan, Betty Winland, Kitty King, Nancy Kerrigan and Tom Kerrigan.
  Butler Institute of American Art Seeks Docents  
  June 30, 2022 Edition  
      The Butler Institute of American Art is offering classes for new docents (volunteer tour guides). Docents are trained museum volunteers who offer teaching, understanding, and appreciation of art through guided tours of the permanent collection. Docents provide a valuable support to the operation of the museum and to the public through their understanding of the museum’s collection. “The docents are a dedicated group of well-trained volunteers who continue to be one of The Butler Institute of American Art’s most valuable resources,” says Joyce Mistovich, director of education. No previous museum experience is necessary, but a willingness to participate and commitment to study the masterpieces in the museum collection is required. Classes will begin in mid-September 2022 and run through mid-April 2023.
     
      For additional information call Joyce Mistovich, Director of Education, in The Butler Education Department. 330.743.1107 ext. 1101
  School Board Names Transportation Director  
  June 23, 2022 Edition  
     Meeting last week, the Boardman Local School Board named Nick Deniakis as the new Supervisor of Transportation for the district at an annual salary of $56,605. He replaces Interim Director Kathy Fait. Deniakis has more than a decade of mechanic, shop foreman and supervisory experience and has been a mechanic at Boardman Local Schools for the past year. He’s a Boardman HS graduate, Class of 2001, and says he’s looking forward to working with a great team of drivers and serving the families of Boardman. The school board also granted limited, one year contracts for the 2022-23 year for Gina Rohan, math teacher at Boardman HS, replacing Jeana Carpenter; Victoria White, district psychologist, replacing Cynthia Davenport; and Eleni Yargo, science teacher at Boardman HS, replacing Larry Davis.
  DeBartolo Sr. Scholarship Gala Raises Some $200,000  
  June 23, 2022 Edition  
     “This evening is a testament to Mr. DeBartolo’s belief that if we all continue to work together, we can provide opportunities to the young people in our valley.”
     
      BY JOHN A. DARNELL JR.
      associate editor
      An elegant evening at the Covelli Center in downtown Youngstown last Friday, June 17, raised more than $200,000 for the Edward J. DeBartolo Memorial Scholarship Foundation. Guests enjoyed food stations from some of the area’s top restaurants and chefs, a live auction that included a trip to the next Super Bowl, and music featuring the sounds of Frank Sinatra presented by local crooner Angelo Babbaro and the Skatch Anderssen Orchestra. Some 350 people attended the event.
      And, the game of football spiced the evening with many grid celebrities, including coaches and players in attendance---Among them, former Pittsburgh Steelers Hall of Fame running back Franco Harris, who was silent when asked about his ‘Immaculate Reception’ in 1972 that gave his team a 13-7 playoff win over the Oakland Raiders. The play is often heralded as the greatest play ever.
      On hand were many members of the San Francisco 49ers. (The team was purchased by the Boardman-based DeBartolo family in 1977 and under the leadership of Ed DeBartolo Jr. became the first franchise in NFL history to win five Super Bowl titles).
      As introduced by Dr. John York, co-chairman of the Niners, they included---
       •Azeez Al-Shaair, a fourth year undrafted free agent linebacker. Last year Azeez had 102 tackles, 2 sacks and 2 fumble recoveries.
       •Aaron Banks, who was a 2021 second round All American draft pick out of Notre Dame. He will be the Niners left guard in the upcoming season.
       •Samson Ebukam, who is in his sixth year in the NFL and second with the 49ers. He had 4.5 sacks as a defensive lineman last year.
       •Demetrius Flannigan-Fowles, who is entering his fourth season as a linebacker for the 49ers. After spending his rookie year on the team’s practice squad, he has appeared in 28 games, including three starts, over the last two seasons.
       •Talanoa Hufanga, who is entering his second season as a safety for the 49ers. Hufanga came to San Francisco as a fifth-round draft pick out of University of Southern California in the 2021. He returned the blocked punt for a touchdown in the NFC divisional game against the Green Bay Packers, as the 49ers won, 13-10.
       •Drake Jackson, will be in his rookie season as a second round defensive lineman from USC. He was second team All-PAC-12 pick twice during his collegiate career.
      Also on hand were a pair of Forty-Niner Hall of Famers, Tom Rathman and Bryant Young.
      Rathman spent 23 years with San Francisco as both a player and coach. He was a member of two back-to-back Super Bowl championship teams (Super Bowl XXIII and XXIV). Following his playing career, he spent 15 years coaching San Francisco’s running backs, including Frank Gore, over a pair of stints (1996-2002 and 2009-16). Rathman finished his NFL career with 2,020 rushing yards, 320 receptions for 2,684 yards with a total of 34 touchdowns.
      Young is the Niners’ newest Hall of Famer. He will be enshrined into the Pro Football Hall of Fame this August. He was the 49ers first round pick (7th overall) in the 1994 draft. He played his 14 seasons with the team and was a member of the Niners Super Bowl XXIX team. He was the NFL’s defensive Rookie of the Year in 1994, named All Pro four times. After a devastating leg injury in 1998, he was the Comeback Player of the Year in 1999.
      In addition to members of the Niners, several local football personalities were at the Memorial Scholarship Foundation event.
      They included Paul McFadden and Jim Tressel, out of Youngsown State football lore; and current Penguins Head Coach Doug Phillips; and former Cardinal Mooney standout Ed Muransky (current owner/operator of Southwoods Health).
      McFadden, who is currently president of the Youngstown State University Foundation, gained note for his barefoot kicking style. He made the Philadelphia Eagles roster as a 12th-round pick in 1984 and earned Rookie of the Year honors. McFadden played in the NFL with the Eagles, Atlanta Falcons and New York Giants for six seasons (1984-1989). McFadden was originally recruited at YSU as a soccer player, and moved onto the gridiron in 1981 as a placekicker for the Penguins under Head Coach Bill Narduzzi. The first field goal he ever attempted, he made, from 54 yards out, at Murray State.
      Tressel, current president of Youngstown State, led the Penguins to four national titles and six appearances in national championship games. After a stellar coaching career at YSU, he moved on to Ohio State where he won the national title in 2002 and his teams also dumped rival Michigan seven times during his tenure as head coach.
      Muransky played football for Cardinal Mooney High School under legendary Head Coach Don Bucci. He was selected in the fourth round of the 1982 NFL draft by the Oakland Raiders. He played in 24 games and was a member of the Raiders Super Bowl XXVIII championship team.
      Phillips came to YSU from the University of Cincinnati, where he was an assistant coach under Luke Fickell. Since Tressel’s tenure, only Bo Pelini, Phillips predecessor, has led the Pens to an appearance in the national title game.
      The grid game not withstanding, the accent of the evening was on the DeBartolo Memorial Scholarship Foundation.
      “This evening is a testament to Mr. DeBartolo’s belief that if we all continue to work together, we can provide opportunities to the young people in our valley,” Dr. York said.
      The Edward J. DeBartolo Memorial Scholarship Foundation has awarded more than $1.6 million in scholarships over the past 25 years and strives to provide advanced education for deserving valley students well into the future.
      Denise DeBartolo York and her husband, Dr. John York, San Francisco 49ers co-chairs and longtime education advocates, awarded 17 scholarships to graduating high school seniors from Columbiana, Mahoning and Trumbull counties during ceremonies held in May at the Lake Club.
      The scholarships, part of The Edward J. DeBartolo Memorial Scholarship Foundation, totaled $170,000 and were presented to the recipients at The Lake Club during a luncheon for the students and their families.
      The scholarship was first established by DeBartolo York’s father and several close friends, who worked to provide commendable youth the opportunity to continue their education.
      The scholarship foundation, run by the Yorks in Mr. DeBartolo’s honor, serves to provide the same platform for excellent area youth in need of financial assistance.
      Presenting sponsor for the event was Phantom Fireworks and the Zoldan family.
      Major sponsors included Brown & Brown, Bury Financial, the Cafaro Foundation, Compco Industries, Covelli Enterprises, Candy and Edward DeBartolo, Furrie Vitullo Group Sparkle Markets, Garry and Wanda Mrozek and family, Hill Barth & King, JJ Cafaro Investment Trust, Mercy Health, Mercy Health Foundation, Muransky Companies, PNC, Rick’s Boot Factory Outlet, RT Vernal Paving, Simon Property, Trumbull Supply, Wesley Family Foundation/FLICORE, and Woeber Mustard Company.
  Dr. Sergul Erzurum Named To Youngstown State Board Of Trustees  
  June 23, 2022 Edition  
     Ohio Gov. Mike DeWine has named Dr. Sergul A. Erzurum, a well-known local ophthalmologist and vice president of Eye Care Associates, to the Youngstown State University Board of Trustees.
      A YSU alumna and Boardman native, Dr. Erzurum, is a surgeon and owner of the Center for Advanced Eye Surgery in Poland. She will serve a term that starts June 27, 2022, and runs through April 30, 2031. She replaces Atty. James E. ‘Ted’ Roberts, whose term has expired.
      Co-founder of Sight for All United and the founder of Doctors for Sight, Dr. Erzurum earned a bachelor’s degree in Combined Science from YSU in 1984 and a doctorate in Medicine from Northeast Ohio Medical University in 1988. She did her ophthalmology residency at Northwestern University in Chicago and pediatric fellowship at Children’s Memorial Hospital in Chicago. She is currently a full professor and master teacher at the Northeast Ohio Medical University and a clinical associate professor at the Ohio University College of Osteopathic Medicine.
      She also served as chair of the Division of Ophthalmology at Northside Hospital in Youngstown until 2018 and as vice chair of the Pediatric Eye Disease Investigator Group, a national research group. She has a long list of research activities, more than 60 publications and presentations and extensive professional service, including a current member of the Ad Hoc Vision Advisory Board for the Ohio Department of Health.
      Among her recognitions and awards: National Philanthropy Day Award, Essilor Difference Maker Award, Advocate Award from Akron Children’s Hospital and the Dedicated Service Award from the United Way of the Mahoning Valley.
  Ordination Of Connor Hetzel Will Be Sat., June 18 At St. Columba  
  June 16, 2022 Edition  
Connor Hetzel
     On Saturday, June 18, the Most Rev. David J. Bonnar, Bishop of Youngstown, will ordain Rev. Mr. Connor Hetzel to the priesthood of Jesus Christ. The ordination liturgy will take place at the Cathedral of Saint Columba in Youngstown at 10:30 a.m.
      Upon ordination as a priest, Deacon Hetzel will be assigned to serve as a Parochial Vicar (Associate Pastor) at a parish in the Diocese of Youngstown. His assignment will be announced during the ordination Mass.
      Deacon Hetzel, 27, is the son of Brian and Kristen Hetzel, of Havenwood Dr. He was born in Rockford, Illinois, and attended Catholic schools in both Illinois and Wisconsin, before his family moved to Boardman in 2004 and became parishioners of St. Charles Borromeo Parish. He attended St. Charles School for two years, was homeschooled for four years, and then attended and graduated from Boardman High School.
      He is a graduate of Youngstown State University, with a bachelor’s degree in physics. While there, he was an active participant at the Newman Center. In May 2022, he received his Master of Divinity and Master of Arts in Theology from Saint Mary Seminary and Graduate School of Theology in Wickliffe, Ohio (near Cleveland).
      As a transitional deacon, while he completed his seminary formation, Deacon Hetzel was assigned to Christ Our Savior Parish in Struthers followed by St. Michael the Archangel Parish in Canton.
     
      PICTURED: Connor Hetzel will be ordained into the priesthood on Sat., June 18. The soon to be Father Connor Hetzel will celebrate a Mass of Thanksgiving at 2:00 p.m. on Sun., June 19 at St. Charles.
     
  Boardman Man, Christopher Anderson, Named Chair Of The Mahoning County Democratic Party  
  June 9, 2022 Edition  
     CHRISTOPHER J. ANDERSON, 33, OF 77 CLIFTON Dr., Boardman, was named chairman of the Mahoning County Democratic Party on June 4 during a confab held at St. Luke Church on South Ave. Anderson will succeed Joyce Kale-Pesta. Anderson says his goal is unity, modernizing communications through social media campaigns, protecting incumbents, building a strong list of democratic candidates, and running fully coordinated campaigns. “Job one will be uniting our party and getting us moving in the same direction,” Anderson said. In Nov., 2017, the Ohio Democratic Party selected Anderson as the state’s young Democrat of the Year. Other officers of the Mahoning County Dem Party include Kale-Pesta, first vice-chairman; Rick Calutti, treasurer; Katherine Miller, secretary; Jaladah Islam, vice-chair/labor relations; and Tito Brown, vice chair/minority affairs.
  Convicted Killer Gets 15 Years To Life In Prison In 2020 Death Of Jennifer Mullen  
  June 9, 2022 Edition  
     George Hill, 46, who was convicted two years after the May, 2020 death of his girlfriend, Jennifer Mullen, 35, of Shields Rd., was sentenced to 15 years to life in prison in Mahoning County Common Pleas Court last week by Judge Anthony D’Apolito.
      Mullen died May 31, 2020, at St. Elizabeth Health Center from injuries sustained at her Shields Road apartment that she shared with Hill.
      Hill was arrested by Boardman police in Feb., 2021, after he was indicted by a Mahoning County Grand Jury in Dec., 2020 on charges murder, felonious assault and domestic violence in connection with Ms. Mullen’s death.
      On May 31, 2020, near 6:40 a.m., Boardman police were called to Mullen’s residence at 49 Shields Rd. when Hill reported she had overdosed.
      Hill told Ptl. Jamison Diglaw he resided with Mullen, who had been his girlfriend for a year.
      “He stated he called for medical attention when brown foam was found coming out of Mullen’s mouth and he could not wake her up,” Officer Diglaw said.
      Hill told police he and Mullen had been drinking at the Steel City Bar in Youngstown and she became intoxicated after consuming six to seven Long Island ice teas; and also claimed she had an argument with a bartender, then they drove back to her residence about 2:00 a.m.
      Once at the residence, Hill claimed that he and Mullen began to argue, after which, according to police, Hill said Mullen went to bed when he noticed she was bleeding from a head wound so he placed a towel on her head to stop the bleeding.
      Hill told Ptl. Diglaw he then went to sleep “for an hour or two” and when he awakened, he saw a brownish foam coming from her mouth and he could not wake her up, “but she was breathing.”
      “He believed it may have been an hour or two before he called EMS, due to him having to charge her phone, as his phone does not make calls,” Officer Diglaw said.
      Mullen was transported by ambulance to a local hospital where she died.
      Det. Greg Stepuk, of the Boardman Police department, said an autopsy was conducted in Cuyahoga County “showed little or no alcohol,” adding a urine sample confirmed no alcohol or drugs were in her system.
      Det Stepuk said he spoke with a bartender at Steel City who said vodka and Sprite was Mullen’s drink of choice.
      According to Det. Stepuk, Mullen suffered a fractured skull and had injuries and bruises all over her body.
      “Due to the amount of injuries, we believed she was severely beaten,” Det. Stepuk said.
      Hill also came to the attention of Boardman police in late Aug., 2019 after allegations were made that a 65-year-old man who lived on Argyle Ave. had been bilked-out of some $30,000 by caregivers over a four-month period.
      Reportedly Hill had lived at the home for several months, until he was asked to leave the home.
      At the time of his arrest on the murder charge, Hill was on the most wanted list of the U.S. Marshal’s Office.
      Mullen was a graduate of Cardinal Mooney High School.
  Stormwater Park Gets $750,000 Grant  
  June 9, 2022 Edition  
     BY JOHN A. DARNELL JR.
      associate editor
      A proposed stormwater park, dubbed the Forest Lawn Stormwater Park, to be located on the property of the current Market St. Elementary School, 5555 Market St., received a boost last week with the announcement that the project has been awarded a $750,000 capital grant from the state of Ohio.
      When completed, the Forest Lawn Stormwater Park will be a 14.6-acre green space on the property of the former elementary school that will be designed to improve surface water flows impacting up to 1,400 homes.
      It will include the creation of a passive park where people can gather and walk along a lighted sidewalk, complete with security cameras, as well as the entire site will be re-forested with appropriate plantings.
      Once completed, during heavy rainfalls, the project will be able to hold up to the equivalent of 9-feet of water (an estimated one million gallons) spread over the surface the size of a football field.
      Already the stormwater park has received allocations totaling some $3 million, including a $1.2 million grant from the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA), $1 million from Mahoning County Commissioners Anthony Traficanti, David Ditzler and Carol Rimedio-Righetti, a $500,000 grant from the state of Ohio and a $320,000 grant from H-2 Ohio.
      The current grant award will be used for property acquisition, parking lot construction and construction of an environmental education pavilion, thanks to the lobbying efforts of State Rep. Al Cutrona and State Sen. Michael Rulli.
      The environmental education pavilion will maximize educational opportunities at the stormwater park.
  63 Seniors Receive Diplomas From Cardinal Mooney High School  
  June 2, 2022 Edition  
     63 seniors received diplomas from Cardinal Mooney High School during commencement exercises held Sun., May 29 at Stambaugh Auditorium in Youngstown, Oh.
      Recognized as valedictorian of the Mooney Class of 2022 was James Campbell, and salutorian was Drew Pecchia.
      Cardinal Mooney High School Class of 2022
      Mohamed Attia, Asia Baker, Emoni Barnes, Shayla Berger, Silas Blackshear, James Campbell, Demetrius Chambers, Vito Colella, Olivia DeCesare, Jack Desmond, Bridget DiVencenzo, Michael DiVencenzo, Daqua Douglas, Edward Driscoll, Brandon Evans, Alexa Fecko, Natalie Femia, Alexandra Fernandez Sanchez, Emyrre Figueroa, Alaina Francis, Jenna Frommelt, Isiah Givens, Tyler Hayes, Mick Hergenrother, Millie Heschmeyer, Tyrin Howell, Zachary Hryb, Jenna Hughes, Elise Johnson, Andre Jones, Asia Jones, Lavella Jones, James Litman, Brandon Lott,
      Christina Maruca, Davontae Miller, Brian Moore, Matthew Morales, Joseph Morrison, Dalton Nickell, Drew Pecchia, Jackson Pepperney, Jack Phillips, Savvas Pizanias, Alyssa Rapp, Grace Raymer, Gianna Reali, Savanna Reali, Zy’ere Rogers, Angelina Rotunno. Domingo Ruiz, Nailah Salahuddin, Alaina Scavina, Trinity Spencer, Sharlie Stewart, Tionde’ Stewart, Isabella Thomas, Mitchell Tofil, Keelee Torma, Savanna VanSuch, Kevon Weaver, Leona Whatley, A’niya Williams.
     
  346 Seniors Will Receive Degrees During Commencement June 5 At BHS  
  June 2, 2022 Edition  
     Commencement for the Spartan Class of 2022 will be held Sunday, June 5 at 2:00 p.m. Approximately 346 graduating seniors will walk from Boardman High School into Spartan Stadium and be seated on the field for the ceremony.
      Stadium gates will open at 12:45 for guests. Graduates may bring as many guests as they wish to Spartan Stadium. Tickets are not required for an outdoor event.
      In case of inclement weather, the ceremony will be moved to the high school gymnasium.
      The Boardman High School Class of 2022 has earned and accepted more than $3.7 million in scholarships.
      There are 26 ‘First in Class’ students who earned a perfect 4.0 gpa during their high school career. They are Lainey Beichner, Brendan Butler, Carter Cailor, Stephen Conti, Alexander DePinto, Li Peng DiMuzio, Lilliana Donatelli, Myra Garzanich, Taylor Greenaway, Marrwa Kermagi, Madison Lester, Jenna McCollum, Jenna Olexa, Alyssa Olsen, Nina Pilolli, Adrianna Quinlan, Nadia Rawhneh, Karlynn Riccitelli, Gabriella Roller, Brynna Schobel, Brittany Sellers, Ava Valko, Kira Vasko, Aroonrassamee Wongkeaitaroon, Justin Yocum and Anna Zheng.
      84 students earned honors diplomas for rigorous coursework completed.
      149 students are honors graduates with a 3.5 GPA or above.
      45 seniors also earned the President’s Award for Educational Excellence for superior academic achievement in math and reading.
      Boardman High School Class of 2022
      Rahma Ababseh, Mohammad Abbadi, Tawfiq Abuenaaj, Moaath Abuoraq, Riley Adams, Jamil Albdour, Alyssa Alberti, Ayed Alemaishat, Tyler Allison, Devon Alm, Aseel Alsamameh, Benjamin Alvarico, Amari Anderson, Louis Andrews, Gerick Angel, Annmarie Anos, Khalid Aras, William Arcuri, William Armour, Justin Atwood, Rachel Baghurst, Kaitlynn Baker, Jason Balentine, Anthony Barber, Ethan Barrett, Rees Beckman, Lucas Beeman, Lainey Beichner, Jordan Bell, Megan Bendel, Mario Berardi, Hollis Bernacki, Rachael Bharat, Allen Biggart, Justin Bina, Connor Blasco, Jacob Blazina, Kevin Bonavia, Alec Bosnjak, Samantha Breen, Cassidy Bryan, Benjamin Bucci, Luca Buonamici, Brendan Butler, Anthony Butto, Carter Cailor, Kayla Campbell, Chase Caroline, Ashli Casanova, Timothy Case, Ella Catanzarite, Scarlett Cave, Taylor Cayson, Seth Cervello, Weixi Chen, Daniel Chiaberta, Aiden Chunn, Logan Ciavarella, Sanayah Clay, Kellie Coffer, Faith Colkitt, Victoria Colovos, Viviana Condoleon, Cole Congson, Stephen Conti, Corey Cook, Jac Cordon, Adriana Cordova Rivas, David Coss, Phillip Crawford, Emily Crump, Tatyanna Cruz-Banks, Andre Joshua Cubarrubia, Leah Cuttica, Angelina D’Apruzzo, Jack Dascenzo, Kennedy Davis, Theodore Davis, Harmony DeFrank, Eric DeLeon, Trey DePietro, Alexander DePinto, Connor Dettmer, Nikol Diaz Rosario, Makenzie Dietz, Li Peng DiMuzio, Jacob Dohar, Lilliana Donatelli, Patrick Dorazio, Aaryan Dorff, Xavior Dorff, Gabriel Dorn, Lucas Dray, Charles Duncan, Atticus Duster, Lydia Eicher, Bella Eliser, Dre’Ana Elliott, Gavin Fernandez, Alec Ferrebee, Daniel Fetty, Emmah Fishbeck, Malysea Flood, Braedynn Flynn, Danielle Flynn, Elijah Foster, Mary Frommelt, Jason Fuese, Mia Gagliano, Rhiannon Gallimore, Olivia Garland, Yazmine Garner, Myra Garzanich, Thomas George, Erin Giampietro, Emma Gigax, Kamryn Gilger, Jacqueline Gollings, Lynnz Gonzalez, Daniel Gordiejew, Michael Grace, Jack Graff, Vanessa Graham, Destini Gray-Scott, Taylor Greenaway, Alyssa Greenwalt, Raymond Griggy, Leslie Grimes, Emma Haase, Khadija Hadidan, Brianna Hall, Helena Haloulos, Noelle Hammar, Mia Hammerton, Shania Hancox, Ashley Harding, Nat Hardy, Nathan Hargrove, Jayden Harris, Dana Haus, David Haybarger, Destinee Hayes, Sierra Hernan, Shane Hetzel, Anthony Hightower, Sa’Riya Hildreth, Thomas Hite, Caroline Ho, Samantha Hoffman, Sofia Hoffman, Aidan Holt, Aaron Horton, Dylan Humphreys, Aaron Hura, Ella Huston, Tristen Hutchko, Kaylie Hutter, Ahmad Imeishat, Antonio Jacobson, Naiume Jairam, Patricia Jeffrey, Elizabeth Johnson, Todd Johnston, Allison Jones, Noah Jones, Evan Jornigan, Brayden Joseph-Robinson, Nikolaus Keil, Austin Kelly, Madison Kelso, Marrwa Kermagi, Guevara Sanad Khatib, Kaylee Khlem, Naji Khoury, Camden Kidd, Declan Klein, Zachary Knickerbocker, Ypatia Kolidakis, Ryder Kreps, Ashton LaBelle, Korynne Lamparty, Donte Lancaster, Raiden Lateef, Katelyn Laughlin, Keisha Laviena, Rocco LaVolpa, Lyna Le, Malcolm Leicht, Sarah Leipply-Caban, Ayden Lesko, Eden Lesnansky, Madison Lester, Daisy Li, Alex Lindeman, Andrew Lipinsky, Adam Lipka, Isabella Loccisano, Ryne Loftus, Brandon Lotz, Cortland Love, Jenna Madick, Arabella Malie, Mason Martin, Maximillian Martin, Tatyana Martinez, Carter Mascola, Hunter Mathie, Keaton Mayhew, Grace McCarty, Jenna McCollum, Joslyn McConnell, Riley McCurdy, Aiden McIntyre, Bresiah McMeans, Paige Mercer, Meekah Meuter, Aidan Miller, John Miller, Emma Mills, Elijah Mitchell, Adam Mohammad, Dominic Mordocco, Abdul Rahman Mousa, Carter Mraz, Joseph Mullarkey, Ibraheem Mustafa, Kaiden Nagel, Thomas Nawrocki, Cara Neuroh, Nicholas Niarhos, Steven Nock, Anthony Noday, Christian Odom, Sean O’Horo, Grace Oklota, Jenna Olexa, Elion Oliver, Alyssa Olsen, Katya Paige, William Parker, Roderica Patterson, Patrick Pavetic, Autumn Payne, Emma Pekar, Carlos Perez, Lukas Peters, Nina Pilolli, Benjamin Piper, Josephine Porter, Alexus Pratt, Adrianna Quinlan, Max Rassega, Nadia Rawhneh, Caitlyn Realty, Karlynn Riccitelli, Tyrel Richards, Gabriella Roller, Benjamin Rolston, Breigh Rougk, Jemma Rudolph, Miranda Russell, Luke Ryan, Lizette Salas, Zachary Saluga, Ryan Sam, Mariah Santistevan, Amelia Sapienza, Quentin Sawman, Kaytelynn Sayers, Anthony Scarano, Brynna Schobel, Bryce Sconyers, Dante Scott, Brittany Sellers, Kevin Serrino, Joseph Sferra, Alexis Sharp, Kalyssa Shoemaker, Alliyah Shorterage, Noah Shurell, Carsyn Sikora, Nicholas Simione, Isaac Sipus, Ethan Slick, Dylan Slipkovich, Jaylin Smith, Madalyn Smith, Vivien Smith, Nathan Smrek, Paige Snyder, Morgan Spearman, Joseph Steiner, Tierra Stevenson, Maurion Stigall, Haylie Stilson, Riley Storey, Bailey Strickland, Ethan Strickland, Blaie Strines, Isabella Strines, Keira Stringer, Lianna Sulebi, Cierra Sullivan, Brandon Swader, Kathryn Taghaboni, Jaden Taylor, Santino Testa, Colin Thomas, Terence Thomas, Cameron Thompson, Marcell Tomlin, Alejandro Torres, Chloe Treadway, Jason Triveri, Alayna Turillo, Ava Valko, Alayna Varley, Kira Vasko, Matthew Vasko, Alissa Vaughn, Logan Vega, Dominic Vennetti, Nicholas Vivacqua, Alexandria Vouvalis, Katherine Wamsley, Brynna Welsh, Aubriellen Wheatley, Mia Wichert, Griffin Widrig, Robert Williamson, Jessica Winsen, Aroonrassamee Wongkeaitaroon, Elena Woods, Josiah Worsencroft, Christopher Yambar, Justin Yocum, Guy Young, Daniel Zahran, Dylan Zets, Amy Zheng, Anna Zheng, Colin Ziak, Connor Zimmer.
  Local Carl Foote Bikes Across America For Alzheimers  
  June 2, 2022 Edition  
     A HALF CENTURY AFTER RIDING A BICYCLE ACROSS AMERICA, 70-year-old Carl Foote, of Maple Dr., Boardman, is making the trek again, this time in an effort to raise $3 million for Alzheimers Disease research. His cross country adventure began on May 21 in Oakland, New Jersey and he hopes to complete his journey on July 9 at Crater Lake Oregon. “Upon retirement, I thought I might recreate my ‘once in a lifetime experience’ of crossing America on a bicycle while adding the component of fundraising for a charity. Having recently had a family member suffer from Alzheimers, I looked for a way to help fight this memory robbing disease,” Foote said, adding “This trip will be a bigger challenge that when I was 20-years-old. With each mile, each climb, each pedal stroke will be the thought and hope that we will eliminate this terrible disease.”
  17 High School Students Awarded Prestigious DeBartolo College Scholarships  
  May 26, 2022 Edition  
     Denise DeBartolo York and Dr. John York, San Francisco 49ers co-chairs and longtime education advocates, awarded 17 scholarships to graduating high school seniors from Columbiana, Mahoning and Trumbull counties during ceremonies held last week at the Lake Club.
      The scholarships, part of The Edward J. DeBartolo Memorial Scholarship Foundation, totaled $170,000.00 and were presented to the recipients at The Lake Club during a luncheon for the students and their families.
      The scholarship was first established by DeBartolo York’s father and several close friends, who worked to provide commendable youth the opportunity to continue their education.
      The scholarship foundation, run by the Yorks in Mr. DeBartolo’s honor, serves to provide the same platform for excellent area youth in need of financial assistance.
      “The objectives of the foundation are to reward those students who have proven themselves as role models and leaders in their community. My father believed that all students who have worked hard to achieve their goals while contributing to their community, should be afforded the opportunity to receive a college education, regardless of their financial situation”, said DeBartolo York.
      2022 scholarship recipients are Cassidy Claypoole, Austintown; Monica Cobbin, Columbiana; Sarah Cornelius, Austintown; Ryssa Coudriet, Niles McKinley; Jenna Croy, Youngstown Rayen Early College; Aiden Exline, Girard; Jazzlyn Flores, Campbell; Lauren Haynie, Champion; Catie Herberger, Hubbard; Samantha Joki, Austintown; Emily McKarns, United Local; Ashely Nicholas, Champion; Quentin Pew, South Range; Cadence Pounds, Austintown ; Evan Sahli, Austintown; Brynna Schobel, Boardman; and Peyton Shorthouse, Struthers.
      More than 375 applications were received by The Edward J. DeBartolo Memorial Scholarship Foundation, which included grade transcripts, student essays and recommendations from guidance counselors and principals. Scholarship award winners are determined by academic achievement, community involvement and financial need.
      The Edward J. DeBartolo Memorial Scholarship Foundation has awarded more than $1.6 million in scholarships over the past 25 years and strives to provide advanced education for deserving valley students well into the future.
     
  Police Investigating Shooting Incident At Rockdale Apartment  
  May 26, 2022 Edition  
     Boardman police are investigating a shooting incident that happened on May 19 about 9:30 p.m. at the London Square Apartments, 411 Rockdale Ave., unit 22.
      Nine police officers responded to the call, interviewing at least eight people about the incident.
      When police first arrived, they were met by Laneise Coggins, 58, of 1400 Springdale Ave., Youngstown, Oh., and James Jordan, 41, of 442 West Marion, Youngstown.
      “Jordan was holding Coggins’ chest, and she was asked if she was shot by gunfire,” police said, noting the woman replied she was “only experiencing chest pains that occurred as a result of the shooting.”
      According to police, unit 22 is rented by 53-year-old Ronetta Mitchell, and she was hosting a cookout.
      Mitchell said at the time of the shooting she was in her bedroom, talking to her son on the phone.
      Coggins told police that Rayvon Parker, 23, “came to the apartment to get his childrens’ mothers, Isis Taylor, 21, of 37 North Bon Air, Youngstown; and Ashma’Ray Lee, 24, of 37 North Bon Air, Youngstown, and his four, juvenile children.”
      Coggins told police when Jordan attempted to stop Parker from entering the apartment that Parker brandished a handgun and the two men began to struggle when the gun was fired outside of the residence.
      Coggins further stated she got in-between Parker and Jordan and as police were heard arriving, Parker fled with Ashma’Ray and their three children.
      “Coggins advised it appeared as if Ashma’Ray was not leaving with Parker under her own free will, and she suspected “Ashma’Ray and the children may be in danger,” police said.
      Taylor told police that when Parker arrived at the apartment he was “extremely agitated” and she went to a bathroom when Parker “came up to her with a gun is his hand,” telling Taylor that she needed to “come home with him.” Police were told the pair were arguing over the handgun when a bullet was discharged into a ceiling.
      Jordan told police he did not want to get involved and denied that Parker shot at him.
      Police recovered four spent rounds and one live, hollow point round.
      Det Greg Stepuk is investigating.
      In addition to Jordan, Coggins, Mitchell and Taylor, police said additional witnesses included Kelsey Iesha Mayris, 25, of 34 Hilton Ave., Youngstown; Darnise Rochelle Coggins, 39, of 2249 Jacobs Rd., Youngstown; and Odyessie Odessa Butler-Reed, 20, of 225 Ferndale, Youngstown.
  Suit Dismissed After Property On Aquadale Dr. Is Cleaned-Up  
  May 26, 2022 Edition  
     A lengthy issue over vehicles and other items on the property at 8057 Aquadale Dr. ended this week when a suit brought against the resident, Stanley Feret, was dismissed. The case was brought forward by the Boardman Township Planning/Zoning Office. Assistant Mahoning County Prosecutor Karen Gaglione said the property had been cleaned-up.
      Issues with property maintenance were given to Feret in May, 2021, when the county prosecutor’s office asked Feret to clean-up the property, citing ‘abandonment of euipment’ including barrels, buckets, wire shelving, windows, plastic cabinets, an indoor stationary bike, foot lockers, indoor furniture, desks, wooden chairs, garbage bags, portable toilets, tarps, appliances, vehicles and trailers on the property.
      “You were given time and the opportunity to correct the zoning violations, but as of the date of this letter, no work has been done on the property to correct the violations,” Atty. Gaglione told Feret.
  Trustees Call For Countywide EMS System  
  Would Provide Cost Sharing For All Communities Involved:   May 5, 2022 Edition  
     BY JOHN A. DARNELL JR.
      associate editor
      Meeting last week, Mahoning County Commissioners Carol Rimedio-Righetti, Anthony Traficanti and David Ditzler received an appeal from Boardman Township officials seeking the development of a regional system top handle emergency medical calls.
      In a letter to the commissioners, Boardman Trustees Brad Calhoun, Thomas Costello and Larry Moliterno said the EMS network in Mahoning County is comprised of various local entities and private companies, all of whom seem to be struggling with staffing shortages and rapid response times to calls “largely because (EMS services] are a very substantial burden for any one community or company alone.
      “We believe the best approach is a regional one that would provide for cost sharing with all communities involved, better resource management and a stable EMS system that can provide support for our county,” Boardman Trustees said.
      The Trustees noted they are aware that Lanes Life Trans ambulance services has “pulled out of Struthers, Campbell, Lowellville and Coitsville; and that AMR ambulance services has asked the city of Youngstown to supplement their operations in order to be able to continue to provide coverage.
      “The Canfield Fire District is asking their voters for additional tax funding to hire personnel as they are currently jumping back and forth between their fire trucks and ambulances” and noted that “Austintown Township is buying ambulances but has limitations on when they can actually provide EMS services.”
      “Seeing all these issues, we believe that EMS services could best be addressed regionally. It is our hope that working together, we could reach out to other communities and private companies to discuss and develop a county-wide strategy that helps every community receive quality and cost effective EMS services,” the Boardman officials said, noting the issue impacts every Mahoning County resident.
  Jury Finds George Hill Guilty Of Murder In Death Of Jennifer Mullen  
  May 5, 2022 Edition  
     A 46-year-old man, George Hill, was found guilty of murder, felonious assault and domestic violence following a trial in a Mahoning County Common Pleas Court on Mon., May 2. Hill was charged in the May, 2020 death of Jennifer Mullen, 35, at her Shields Rd. apartment.
      Hill told police the night Mullen died that he and Mullen went to a Youngstown bar where Mullen became drunk after consuming Long Island Iced Tea drinks. Hill told police that Mullen hit her head in the bathroom of her apartment, after having six or seven drinks, and he could not wake her.
      Assistant county prosecutor Jennifer McLaughlin said that blood and urine tests performed on Mullen detected no alcohol and that Hill had lied about the kind of drinks he claimed Mullen drank.
      The case was tried before Judge Anthony D’Apolito. Lead investigator on the case was Det. Greg Stepuk, of the Boardman Police Department. Hill, who will be sentenced later, faces 15 years to life on the murder charge, and additional jail time on the domestic violence and assault charges.
      Hill was arrested by Boardman police in Feb., 2021, after he was indicted by a Mahoning County Grand Jury in Dec., 2020 on charges murder, felonious assault and domestic violence in connection with Ms. Mullen’s death.
      On May 31, 2020, near 6:40 a.m., Boardman police were called to Mullen’s residence at 49 Shields Rd. when Hill reported she had overdosed.
      Hill told Ptl. Jamison Diglaw he resided with Mullen, who had been his girlfriend for a year.
      “He stated he called for medical attention when brown foam was found coming out of Mullen’s mouth and he could not wake her up,” Officer Diglaw said.
      Hill told police he and Mullen had been drinking at the Steel City Bar in Youngstown and she became intoxicated after consuming six to seven Long Island ice teas; and also claimed she had an argument with a bartender, then they drove back to her residence about 2:00 a.m.
      Once at the residence, Hill claimed that he and Mullen began to argue, after which, according to police, Hill said Mullen went to bed when he noticed she was bleeding from a head wound so he placed a towel on her head to stop the bleeding.
      Hill told Ptl. Diglaw he then went to sleep “for an hour or two” and when he awakened, he saw a brownish foam coming from her mouth and he could not wake her up, “but she was breathing.”
      “He believed it may have been an hour or two before he called EMS, due to him having to charge her phone, as his phone does not make calls,” Officer Diglaw said.
      Mullen was transported by ambulance to a local hospital where she died.
      Det. Greg Stepuk, of the Boardman Police department, said an autopsy was conducted in Cuyahoga County “showed little or no alcohol,” adding a urine sample confirmed no alcohol or drugs were in her system.
      Det Stepuk said he spoke with a bartender at Steel City who said vodka and Sprite was Mullen’s drink of choice.
      According to Det. Stepuk, Mullen suffered a fractured skull and had injuries and bruises all over her body.
      “Due to the amount of injuries, we believe she was severely beaten,” Det. Stepuk said.
      Hill came to the attention of Boardman police in late Aug., 2019 after allegations were made that a 65-year-old man who lived on Argyle Ave. had been bilked-out of some $30,000 by caregivers over a four-month period.
      Reportedly Hill had lived at the home for several months, until he was asked to leave the home.
      At the time of his arrest on the murder charge, Hill was on the most wanted list of the U.S. Marshal’s Office.
      Mullen was a graduate of Cardinal Mooney High School.
  DEATHS  
  Angelo Yanucci, 89:   May 5, 2022 Edition  
     POWELL, OH.---Angelo John Iannucci, 89, passed away on Friday, April 22.
      Angelo was born on April 1, 1933, to Angelo M. and Mary Lou Caizzo Iannucci, in Youngstown. His sharp wit and keen sense of humor were second-to-none, and often attributed to his April Fool’s Day birth date.
      He loved all things Italian---the pasta, the culture and the sports cars. He was known for his sweet tooth and looked forward to all sweet treats. He was an avid reader of books, magazines and newspapers, and knew so much about so many things.
      Angelo loved all things football. He was a diehard fan of both The Ohio State Buckeyes and the Cleveland Browns. On Saturdays in the fall, he was all about college football, whether it was attending in-person or viewing endless games on television.
      Angelo was a 1951 graduate of Boardman High School, where in addition to starring at running back on the football field, he was a valued member of the Spartan track and field squad. He earned three letters in each sport. On the gridiron he earned All Tri-County League and All Mahoning County honors. He was inducted into the Boardman High School Athletics Hall of Fame in 1985 and to the Curbstone Coaches Hall of Fame in 2012.
      Angelo attended Rutgers University in New Brunswick, N.J., where he earned a B.A. degree in English in 1955.
      During his stellar collegiate football career as a Scarlet Knight, he earned three varsity letters. He was awarded the Homer Hazel Trophy as a junior in 1954. As the captain of the 1955 squad, he was an All-East selection as both a junior and senior, earning Honorable Mention All-American laurels his final season.
      Upon graduation, he spent one year in New York City employed by the nation’s seventh largest corporation at the time, Union Carbide. From 1956 to 1959, Angelo served in the United States Air Force, rising to the rank of captain.
      For 50 years, Angelo made a name for himself as the ‘go-to-guy’ in the beer, wine and soft drink industry.
      From 1959 to 1970, he served as sales manager for Superior Beverage in Youngstown. He later worked as the general manager for Western Reserve Distributing Company in Painesville, Oh., from 1970 to 1982. Angelo purchased the company in 1983, serving as the owner/CEO until 2002, when he sold it to Gil Schwartz Distributing Company. From 2003 to 2009, he was the brand manager for Heritage Beverage in Mentor.
      Throughout his 89 years, Angelo touched countless lives and is loved by many. He will be dearly missed by his family. Angelo is survived by his wife, Dolores; three children, Joen, Jon and Robert; three grandchildren, Michael Haring, and Anna and AJ Chadwick; sister, Katherine Iannucci; and nieces, Andrea Lepore and Christina Tanger.
      He was preceded in death by his parents; nephew, Michael Lepore; and numerous aunts and uncles.
      Angelo (‘Poppy’) will be missed by his friends and caregivers at the Ganzhorn Suites in Powell. A special thanks to Kelly, Zach, JJ and Rowe for serving as his special guardian angels, and to Ebony and Natalia for providing such compassionate care. Much heartfelt gratitude to Poppy’s favorite Ganzhorn visitors (also special guardian angels)---Tracy, John and Johnny Haring, and Morgan (Kuntupis) Koch---whose visits always made him smile and laugh.
      A private memorial service will be held at a later date.
      Memorial contributions may be made to the Alzheimer’s Association. To share a condolence with the family, please visit www.NewcomerColumbus.com.
  Project Mayhem To Stage Encore Performance Fri., June 3  
  At Spartan Stadium:   May 5, 2022 Edition  
     For the first time in its 15 year history, Boardman’s Rock Orchestra, Project Mayhem will hold an encore performance–this time outdoors in Spartan Stadium.
      Tickets are now available for an outdoor Mayhem Concert set for Friday, June 3 at 8:00 p.m.. There will be seating in the home stands and blanket-only lawn seats on the field.
      “Our March concert was sold out with more than 1,600 fans in the Boardman Performing Arts Center,” said Mayhem Music Director Bill Amendol. “This show will be a ‘Best Of Mayhem’ performance with more than 60 percent of the songs as new material from the indoor concert that we performed in March.”
      The two-hour event combines the talents of the Boardman Orchestra with vocals by Boardman students in a ‘Trans-Siberian’ style performance.
      “This electrically charged show will rock Spartan Stadium,” said Amendol.
      Tickets are $10 general admission. The public may purchase tickets at Boardman High School at the main front entrance on any school day between 8:00 a.m. and 2:30 p.m. Rain date for Mayhem is Saturday, June 4 at 8:00 p.m.
     
  NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING  
  May 5, 2022 Edition  
     NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING
      The Boardman Township Board of Appeals shall hold a Public Hearing on Tuesday, May 17, 2022 at 7:00 PM, go to https://www.boardmantwp.com/zoning/board-of-zoning-appeals/ for further information for consideration of the following cases:
      APPEAL CASE AC-2022-15
      Newton Murphy, on behalf of Kimberly Lucarell, property owner, 6745 Applewood Blvd, Boardman, Ohio 44512, requests a variance from the terms of the Boardman Township Zoning Resolution, effective January 1, 2021, Article 7.05 Fencing, Walls, Hedges, and Similar Structures (E) (3) (a) (i) to have a six foot (6’) fence (11) eleven feet from the property line on a corner lot. The property is further known as LOT 522 135 X 160 IRR APPLEWOOD ACRES PL 15, Parcel 29-017-0-038.01-0. Said property is zoned R-2-Residential, in Boardman Township, Mahoning County, State of Ohio.
      APPEAL CASE AC-2022-16
      Haider Ali, on behalf of Noureen Fatima, property owner, 428 438 E Western Reserve Rd., Boardman, Ohio 44512, requests a variance from the terms of the Boardman Township Zoning Resolution, effective January 1, 2021, Article 7.06 Stormwater Management, Site Drainage, and Compliance (B) for an exemption from stormwater management to add additional impervious surface to make up for property purchased for right-of-way expansion by the County Engineers on Western Reserve Rd. The property is further known as GL 31 DIV 4 & GL 31 DIV 4, Parcel 29-037-0-006.00-0 & 29-037-0-007.00-0. Said property is zoned GB-General Business, in Boardman Township, Mahoning County, State of Ohio.
      APPEAL CASE AC-2022-17
      Ward Martin, property owner, 1474 Walker Mill Rd, Boardman, Ohio 44512, requests a variance from the terms of the Boardman Township Zoning Resolution, effective January 1, 2021, Article 4.09 Area, Setback, and Other Site Development Standards Table 4.09-1 to reduce the front setback from 50’ to 16’ on Paulin Drive and the side yard setback from 9’ to 4’ on a corner lot. The property is further known as LOT 2 100 X 220 PAULIN PL, Parcel 29-051-0-033.00-0. Said property is zoned R-1A-Residential, in Boardman Township, Mahoning County, State of Ohio.
      APPEAL CASE AC-2022-18
      ECHO PARTNERS 2002, property owner, 478 Boardman Canfield Rd., Boardman, Ohio 44512, requests a variance from the terms of the Boardman Township Zoning Resolution, effective January 1, 2021, Article 12.11 Permanent Signs in Nonresidential Districts (C) (1) to have a pole sign with 13’ supports 10’ higher than the allowed 3’ high supports. The property is further known as LOT 2 263.57 X 800.52 IRR RP WARD PLAZA ASSOC PL 2 RP LT 2 WARD ASSOC 1, Parcel 29-067-0-062.02-0. Said property is currently zoned GB-General Business, located in Boardman Township, Mahoning County, State of Ohio.
      APPEAL CASE AC-2022-19
      Robert Baluch, property owner, 8415 Hickory Hill Dr., Boardman, Ohio 44514, requests a variance from the terms of the Boardman Township Zoning Resolution, effective January 1, 2021, Article 8.03 (B) (3) to eliminate the 25’ riparian setback. The property is further known as LOT 78 148.31 X 188.79 IRR FOREST HILLS PLAT 2 & LOT 79 157.05 X 188.79 IRR FOREST HILLS PL 2, Parcel 29-049-0-013.78-0 & 29-049-0-013.79-0. Said property is currently zoned R-1A Residential, located in Boardman Township, Mahoning County, State of Ohio.
      APPEAL CASE AC-2022-20
      Greenheart Companies on behalf of Aaron & Wendy Fishbeck, property owner, 605 Berklee Dr., Boardman, Ohio 44514, requests a variance from the terms of the Boardman Township Zoning Resolution, effective January 1, 2021, Article 4.09 Area, Setback, and Other Site Development Standards Table 4.09-1 to reduce the front, east, setback from 35’ to 28’ and the west side setback from 9’ to 6’. The property is further known as LOT 45 90 X 170 REPLAT OF LOT 23 IN THE REPLAT OF BRISTOL PARK ESTATES PLAT NO 1, Parcel 29-108-0-001.46-0. Said property is currently zoned R-1A Residential, located in Boardman Township, Mahoning County, State of Ohio.
      Text and maps of the request may be viewed at the Boardman Township Zoning Office, 8299 Market Street, Boardman, Ohio 44512 Monday through Friday, between the hours of 8:00 AM and 4:00 PM, until time of hearing. Please call 330-726-4181 or email requests to tdavignon@boardmantwp.com.
      Atty. John F. Shultz, Chairman
      Boardman Township Board of Appeals
      Tricia D’Avignon, AICP
      Assistant Director of Zoning and Development
     
  NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING  
  May 5, 2022 Edition  
     NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING
      The Boardman Township Board of Trustees will conduct a Public Hearing on the following amendment to the Boardman Township Zoning Resolution and Township Zoning Map on Monday, May 23, 2022 at 5:00 PM. Go to https://www.boardmantwp.com/zoning/zoning-commission/ for further information.
      AMENDMENT A-2022-02
      Baker, Bednar, Snyder & Assoc. on behalf of TOB KIA REAL ESTATE LLC, property owner, requests a zone change for 7870 Market St., Boardman, Ohio 44512, from the terms of the Boardman Township Zoning Resolution, effective January 1, 2021, in order to change the property in its’ entirety to GB-General Business zoning district. The property is further known as LOT 1 386.10 X 770.00 (IRR) TAYLOR KIA PLAT NO. 1, Parcel 29-093-0-033.00-0. Said property is currently zoned GB-General Business & R-1 Residential, located in Boardman Township, Mahoning County, State of Ohio.
      To view a hard copy of the texts and maps at the Boardman Township Zoning Office, 8299 Market Street, Boardman, Ohio 44512 Monday through Friday, between the hours of 8:00 AM and 4:00 PM, until time of hearing, please call 330-726-4181 or email requests to tdavignon@boardmantwp.com.
      Peter W. Lymber, Chairman
      Boardman Township Zoning Commission
      Tricia D’Avignon, AICP,
      Assistant Director of Zoning and Development
  Artwork Of Ron Mistovich Featured In Exhibit At Weller Gallery At Fellow Riverside Gardens  
  April 28, 2022 Edition  
     Mill Creek MetroParks presents “Art and Memory: Reflections of Ron Mistovich” showcasing the range of Mistovichs’ creative energy and talent as an artist. This free art exhibit will be displayed in the Weller Gallery at Fellows Riverside Gardens through July 24, during the normal operating hours of Tuesdays thru Sundays, from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.
      Mistovich passed away at the age of 71 in Nov., 2019 after a long battle with Alzheimer’s Disease. He was a 1966 graduate of Cardinal Mooney High School. He received his bachelor of science degree in Art Education from Youngstown State University and his master’s degree in Studio Art from Kent State University. He was an art educator for Struthers City Schools for 35 years. He also served as an adjunct professor at Youngstown State University in the Art Department.
      He enjoyed creating art in various mediums, whether at his home studio or in the classroom. Not only was he respected for his abstract painting and being a master art educator, but his creativity also extended to printmaking, sculpture, enamel and jewelry.
      His artwork is exhibited in multiple permanent collections nationally, including The Butler Institute of American Art, as well as many private collections.
      Mistovich served as a Eucharistic Minister at St. Charles, where he designed the new church’s altar.
      Mistovich, who resided on Presidential Ct. in Boardman, was the recipient of the outstanding art educator award by The Steel Valley Art Teacher’s Association for his noteworthy contributions to the field of fine art and education.
      He continued painting throughout the last days of his life.
  Washingtonville Police Officer Charged With Impersonating Federal Agent  
  April 28, 2022 Edition  
     BY JOHN A. DARNELL JR.
      associate editor
      A 25-year-old Lisbon man was arrested by Boardman police on Sun., Apr. 24 after police indicated he had been at the Holiday Inn, 7410 South Ave., and Sheetz, 134 Boardman-Poland Rd., parading around as if he was a federal law enforcement officer.
      Logan Daniel Malik, of 39055 Harvey Rd., Lisbon, was charged with impersonating a police officer.
      An employee of the Holiday Inn told police that Malik came to the business about 6:00 p.m. and identified himself as a U.S. Marshal, stating he was looking for “skin heads” and the marshal’s service “had arrested five of them earlier at the Southern Park Mall.”
      The Holiday Inn employee said that Malik was “shaking so bad and she did not want to agitate him because he had a gun.”
      Shortly thereafter, police were told the same man was at Sheetz and the car he was driving was stopped by law enforcement.
      “Malik was wearing civilian clothes with a police tactical vest, a gun holstered on his right waist and a badge on his left waist. The badge on his waist was a Washingtonville police badge,” Ptl. Shannon Chaffee said, adding inside Malik’s wallet, he carried a Leetonia police badge.
      Malik told Boardman police Lt. Brian Habeger he was at the Holiday Inn “asking about people the U.S. Marshal’s service are looking for, because his dream is to be a U.S. Marshal, but he never told police he is a U.S. Marshal.”
      Malik told police “he never identified himself as a federal law enforcement officer while he was in Boardman, however he ‘jokingly’ told someone at Sheetz that he had a warrant for them, but quickly told them he was joking around,” Officer Chaffee said.
      Lt. Habeger contacted Chief Ken Faust of the Washingtonville PD, who confirmed Malik was a member of his department, and was not on a U.S. Marshal’s task force, “nor would he have any Washingtonville police business in Boardman.”
      Lt. Habeger also spoke with Chief Alan Haueter of the Leetonia PD, who said at one time Mailk served as a police officer there “but was let go a couple years ago and was supposed to turn his badge in.”
      After booking, Malik was released on a summons.
      Boardman police took possession of a 9mm handgun, a taser, a police vest, a baton, a pair of handcuffs and the police badges from Malik.
  Transportation Director Resigns Post With Local School System  
  April 28, 2022 Edition  
     Meeting on Monday night, Apr. 25, the Boardman Local School Board accepted the resignation of Ryan Dunn, 31, as the system’s transportation director.
      Dunn was pinned underneath a 3-ton tractor at the Boardman School Bus Garage, 8252 Raupp Ave., about 4:19 p.m. on Fri., Feb. 18, a day there were no classes scheduled. According to reports, the only, other person in the garage at the time was a 15-year-old boy who witnessed the accident and called 9-1-1.
      “I need help now,” the teenager yelled out in the 9-1-1 call, telling the dispatcher who handled the call “A tractor ran over the transportation director...Get here now, I can hear his bones breaking...Please help me. Hurry up.”
      A police report of the accident says that Dunn got off the tractor while it was “slightly moving forward. The tractor drove-up Dunn’s leg to the middle of his lower back, before coming to a stop, pinning Dunn to the ground.”
      A report completed by Boardman fireman Shawn Conroy said that Dunn’s left leg was pinned under the right, rear tractor tire.
      Conroy said emergency crews used a 10-ton jack to lift the tractor off Dunn, who was then transported by ambulance to a hospital.
      Ten Boardman Fire Department personnel responded to the scene.
      According to several sources, recently installed security cameras inside the school bus garage could have captured the incident, however a hard drive was removed from the system shortly after the mishap.
  Farmers National Bank Merges Boardman And North Lima Offices  
  April 21, 2022 Edition  
      Farmers National Bank has announced plans to combine its current Boardman branch at 102 W. Western Reserve Rd., with its North Lima branch at 9001 Market St., North Lima, a tenth of a mile away and across the street.
      The Boardman branch will close at 4:00 p.m. on Friday, April 22 and the ‘combined’ North Lima branch will open on Monday, April 25.
      The North Lima location is a newer built branch, with size that is more reflective of today’s banking model.
      The North Lima interior has been renovated to showcase Farmers’ new interior branding package.
      “We are excited by all the possibilities that will come with our new combined branch,” says Amber Wallace, chief retail and marketing officer. “This move will allow us to continue offering our comprehensive slate of financial services, while adapting to an ever-changing banking model.”
  Former Mooney, YSU Standout Rick Shepas Set For Curbstone HOF Laurels On May 3  
  April 21, 2022 Edition  
     BY GREG GULAS
      Boardman News Sports
      bnews@zoominternet.net
      The 53rd Curbstone Coaches Hall of Fame Banquet, sponsored by Briarfield Health Care Center and Ed and Diane Reese, is scheduled for Sunday, May 1 with a dozen new members set for enshrinement during ceremonies at Mr. Anthony’s Banquet Center, 7440 South Ave., Boardman.
      The class was originally set for installation May 3, 2020, but the COVID-19 pandemic caused cancellation of induction ceremonies in both 2020 and 2021.
      Former Ohio State University and NFL quarterback, and current YSU assistant football coach, Mike Tomczak, will serve as guest speaker.
      This year’s class includes Phil Annarella (football, posthumous), Mike Banks (basketball), Dr. Andrew Bushey (baseball), Sandra DePizzo (bowling), Jim Evans (sports media), Tim Filipovich (basketball), Denise Gorski (contribution to sports), Tim Joyce (basketball), Joe McHenry (all-sports award), Rick Shepas (football), John Turco (football) and John Zebroski (golf).
      A standout receiver at both Cardinal Mooney High School and Youngstown State University, Shepas played for and learned the game from three local coaching icons in Don Bucci at CMHS, and both Bill Narduzzi and Jim Tressel at YSU, head mentors who would shape and mold him into the coach he would become on the scholastic and collegiate level years after his playing days concluded.
      A 1983 graduate of Cardinal Mooney High School, he played for Bucci from 1980-82 and as a receiver, wreaked havoc on opponent defenses to the tune of 45 career receptions – ranking second to his brother, Bob, who caught 50 passes from 1967-68 – where he remains third on the Cardinals’ all-time career list.
      He served as game captain during his senior season with his six touchdown receptions still tied for ninth all-time and his 20.4 yards per catch average, also tied for ninth all-time.
      As a senior he caught 32 passes, still fourth all-time for a season while his 596 receiving yards that same year is third in the all-time single season ledger.
      His 130 yards receiving against Howland in 1982 remains fourth all-time while his six receptions against Cleveland St. Joe’s, also during his senior year, is still tied for second in a single game.
      Inducted into the Cardinal Mooney High School Athletics Hall of Fame in 1998, a little known fact about this year’s inductee is that he is ambidextrous, someone equally adept at throwing a spiral at great length with both arms.
      Upon graduation he accepted a scholarship to Youngstown State University, playing his first three seasons under Narduzzi (1983-85) and his final collegiate campaign under former head coach and current YSU President Jim Tressel.
      During his years as a Penguins’ wide out, he earned four letters and served as team captain his senior year.
      A two-time All-Ohio Valley Conference first-team selection (1985-86), he earned third-team All-American laurels those same two seasons.
      He finished his career with 150 receptions – second all-time at the time of his graduation and currently tied for third overall – and compiled 2,263 career receiving yards, which remains third all-time on the Penguins’ career receiving list.
      He was inducted into the YSU Athletics Hall of Fame in 1996.
      Upon completion of his collegiate career, he was with the Cleveland Browns (Mini-Camp; May-June, 1987) and Green Bay Packers (Training Camp, 1987), finishing his playing career as a wide receiver, defensive back and kick returner as a member of the Pittsburgh Gladiators of the Arena Football League (1988).
      He earned his Bachelor of Arts degree from YSU in 1987, majoring in sports management and minoring in health and physical education, earned his teacher certification from Hiram College in 1989 and Master of Education in Sport Science from Ashland University in 1991.
      He began his successful coaching career at Poland Seminary High School (1990-96) with stops also at Seneca Valley (PA) High School (1996-98) and tradition-rich Massillon Washington High School (1998-2005) scholastically, then at Waynesburg University (2005-17) on the collegiate level.
      Success has followed this year’s inductee at every stop along the way, coaching teams to seven play-off appearances and four league titles while earning seven “Coach of the Year” honors during his high school years.
      He also served as a coach in the Big 33 Football Classic (1996).
      His 97-35 (.734 winning percentage) career record as a high school head coach includes a 12-win season while at Massillon, the first Tigers’ head coach to win that many games in a single season.
      While at Waynesburg he posted a 69-55 overall mark (his 69 wins is most all-time amongst all WU head coaches), going 47-38 in the PAC (President’s Athletic Conference) with one league championship (2012) and five ECAC post-season bowl appearances (2007, 2011-14).
      Most recently, his work with the Youngstown City Schools has been lauded as he helped restore athletic departments at East and Chaney High School while bringing back the Golden Bear at EHS.
      He was instrumental in reforming the Steel Valley Conference – he brought together Cardinal Mooney, Chaney, East and Ursuline as its first members – also serving as its first commissioner.
      He and his wife, the former Christine DiVincenzo, are the parents of three daughters, Maria, Katy and Gina. They reside in Boardman.
      Individual tickets are $60 each, tables of eight $480 and further information can be obtained by calling 330-506-6774, or by visiting the Curbstone Coaches website at www.thecurbstonecoaches.org.
     
  Clarence Smith Jr. Donated Living Fossils That Now Grace Landscape At Boardman Park  
  DAWN REDWOOD:   April 21, 2022 Edition  
     Did you know that Boardman Park, the Green Oasis, offers visitors the chance to see a living fossil? No, it isn’t a topiary of a dinosaur. The living fossil is the tree Dawn Redwood, or Metasequoia Glyptostroboides.
      From fossil data, the Dawn Redwood is known to have existed as many as 50 million years ago. It is the sole living member of the genus Metasequoia, which literally means ‘almost a sequoia.’
      The Dawn Redwood is closely related to the Coast Redwood (Sequoia sempervirens) and the Giant Sequoia (Sequoiadendron giganteum). All redwoods are cone-bearing trees and get their common name from their reddish-brown bark and heartwood.
      The Dawn Redwood is a large, fast-growing, deciduous (the tree loses its leaves in the fall), pyramidal evergreen tree that grows up to 100 feet tall with attractive, feathery foliage. It has spreading branches that droop with age. New growth is light green, maturing to a deep green in the summer, and eventually turning red-bronze and falling off in autumn. While the bark and foliage of the Dawn Redwoods are similar to the other redwoods, it is distinct in that it is deciduous and develops a widened trunk-base as it matures. It is the shortest of the Redwoods. The tree prefers moist, deep, well-drained soils that are slightly acidic. It is tolerant of wet soils and has minimal pest and disease problems.
      This tree was once one of the most widespread tree species in the northern hemisphere during the Tertiary period (from 66 million to 2.6 million years ago). The Dawn Redwood was first described in 1941 based only on fossil evidence. It was believed to have been extinct for millions of years.
      However, six years later in 1947, during an expedition to Southwest China, T. Kan, a Chinese forester of Beijing National Central University, found three strange deciduous trees he had never seen before. These trees were found to belong to the fossil species of Dawn Redwood. The Arnold Arboretum of Harvard University made arrangements to collect seeds from the discovery site. The seedlings grown from these seeds were then distributed to universities and arboreta around the world in an attempt to preserve the species.
      In 2012 Boardman Park was very fortunate to be the proud recipient of ten Dawn Redwood trees that were most graciously donated by the late Clarence R. Smith Jr.
      Mr. Smith, who had a deep appreciation for the beauty of the natural world and was quite knowledgeable about plants and landscaping, sadly passed away in April of 2021, at the age of 93. It is definitely a tremendous benefit to have these beautiful and unusual specimens added to the landscape of the Boardman Park.
     
      This article, by Daniel Slagle,
      executive director of Boardman Park, is
      one of several stories The Boardman News will provide this year as the park observes its 75th anniversary.
     
  School Board Selects Ginnetti As Treasurer  
  $105,000 Annual Salary:   April 14, 2022 Edition  
     The Boardman Board of Education met on Thursday, April 7 in a special board meeting and unanimously approved hiring Arthur J. Ginnetti, 40, as the district’s new treasurer. Ginnetti officially begins on May 2, taking the reins from interim treasurer, Ryan Jones.
      Ginnetti will receive an annual salary of $105,000.
      Ginnetti joins Boardman Local Schools after serving as the chief financial officer/treasurer with the Youngstown City School District.
      Ginnetti began his career as treasurer in the Struthers City School District in 2011. He then served as assistant treasurer and then treasurer in Austintown Local Schools before taking the CFO position with Youngstown City Schools in 2018.
      “The school board is excited to welcome Mr. Ginnetti, and we look forward to working with him,” said Board President John Landers. “We believe his experience in similar-sized school districts, his reputation for detail, and his desire to make Boardman his home will serve the district well.”
      “I’ve enjoyed my time in every district where I’ve worked and I look forward now to being a Spartan,” said Ginnetti. “My goals will always be to continue the success of Boardman schools, to make sure our students thrive, and to keep a watchful eye on our fiscal responsibilities to the community of Boardman.”
  Landlord Dies Two Days After Claim He Was Assaulted While Collecting Rent Money  
  April 14, 2022 Edition  
     Boardman police are scheduled to interview at least one person in connection with a claim that an assault on an 81-year-old landlord may have led to his death.
      Luidi Farina, 81, of 3179 Chablis Lane, Poland, died on Sun., Mar 27.
      Two days before Farina’s death, his wife, Maria, 75, told police her husband was at 5751 Sheridan Rd. to collect rent money. She told police a “middle-eastern man confronted Luigi, and an argument took place...and the man struck Luigi in the right side (just below the rib cage) with a wide metal object that resembled a baby gate.”
      After being struck, Farina grabbed a baseball bat he had in his vehicle to defend himself as he and the man continued to argue.
      Later the same day, Farina was complaining of pain and soreness, and shortness of breath, his wife said and he went to the emergency department at Mercy Helath/Boardman where he received pain medication.
      The following day, Farina was transported by ambulance to Mercy Health/Youngstown, “still complaining about chest pain and shortness of breath,” his wife said, adding that her husband died while there.
      Farina’s cause of death is awaiting a coroner’s ruling.
  118th Memorial Day Parade Set For May 30  
  April 14, 2022 Edition  
     On Monday, May 30, Boardman Township observe its 118th annual Memorial Day remembrance, including a parade from Center Intermediate School to Boardman Park, where ceremonies will be held at the Maag Outdoor Arts Theater.
      ‘We are proud to honor those who have served, are serving, and those who gave the ultimate sacrifice while in military service to our country,” said mark Luke, of the Boardman Kiwanis Club that organizes the event.
      Groups participating in the parade assemble at the Boardman Center Intermediate School at 7410 Market St. at 9:00 a.m. and the parade will begin at 10:00 a.m.
      Prior to the Parade, and starting at 9:00 a.m. the Memorial Mile (a running road race) which follows the same route as the parade will get underway. Applications to run in the event are available at Walgreen’s, the YMCA and Second Sole.
      Following the parade, at 11:00 a.m., the Memorial Day Service will be held.
      Keynote speaker will be James Guterba, a United States Marine Corps and Vietnam Conflict veteran, and a retired educator with the Boardman Local Schools.
      Lauren Johnson will lead us in the invocation and LTC Bill Moss, USAF retired, will lead the Pledge of Allegiance and place a wreath in honor of deceased veterans
      The Boardman High School National Honor Society President will place a wreath in honor of currently serving military personnel. Luke will serve as master of ceremonies. The Boardman High School Wind Ensemble conducted by Mr. Tom Ruggieri will provide music for the service.
      In the event of inclement weather, the service will be held in the Center Intermediate School Auditorium at 10:00 a.m.
      All veterans and community members can join together to recognize, remember and express their solemn thankfulness for the historical sacrifices of military forces to preserve the American way of life.
  SOUTHWOODS: Best For Patient Experience  
  April 14, 2022 Edition  
     Southwoods Health announces The Surgical Hospital at Southwoods has been named a “Best Hospital for Patient Experience” as reported by Becker’s Hospital Review. Southwoods is one of only 10 hospitals in Ohio named to this list, and the only hospital in the tri-county area with a five-star rating from the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS).
      The ratings are based on figures using Hospital Consumer Assessment of Healthcare Providers and Systems (HCAHPS) scores from ten, topic-specific measures. The CMS summary star rating combines this information about different aspects of patient experience of care to make it easier to compare hospitals. The ratings come from the CMS Care Compare website and represents their most recent scores.
      “It is an honor to once again be named a top hospital for patient experience,” said Ed Muransky, Chief Executive Officer at Southwoods. “These types of awards are a direct reflection of the hard work and dedication of our physicians and staff. Their commitment to providing the best care possible to our patients is unmatched.”
      Southwoods Health is owned and operated by the Muransky family and area physicians. It includes The Surgical Hospital at Southwoods, an acute care hospital. The hospital continues to expand its scope of services, that includes inpatient, outpatient and robotic-assisted surgery, as well as endoscopy services.
      Southwoods Health also provides an expanding array of ancillary health services at locations throughout the Mahoning Valley. These locations include Southwoods Imaging, offering the most technologically advanced diagnostic imaging services in the area; Southwoods Pain & Spine Center, offering services to treat chronic pain and the region’s most advanced spine surgery program; Southwoods Sleep Centers, diagnosing and treating sleep disorders; Southwoods Physician Services, a multi-specialty physician group; and Southwoods Express Care, providing same day, walk-in non-emergent services.
  64 Students At Boardman High School Inducted in National Honor Society  
  April 7, 2022 Edition  
     The following students were inducted into the Boardman High School National Honor Society during ceremonies held last week at the Performing Arts Center---
       Benjamin Ams, Caleb Austin, Julia Basista, Lauren Bero, William Bierlair, Ethan Blevins, Kay Budrovic, Jonah Bukovac, John Cagnina, Marley Cheff, Emily Choleva, Daniel Csernik, Natalie Davis, Madison Dravecky, Ethan DunLany, Kamryn Duritza, Carson Essad, Morganne Evans, Zoey Fick-Mills, Anna Fink, Leah Franke, Camille Goske, Jenna Greene, Konner Hines, Taylor Hurd, Katelynn Kershaw, Aliza Khan, Chloe Khoury, Jasmine Le, Luke Leonard, Elizabeth McCrea, Sara Merzic, Alex Micco, Alexis Mihok, Madison Murphy, Megan Murphy, Anthony Nigro, Kate Pendleton, Gabrielle Picino, Olivia Pickens, Gianna Pinciaro, Genevieve Quinlan, Caleb Satterfield, Alexander Schmitt, Reagan Smith, Lillian Snyder, Kathleen Sullivan, Jason Sweder, Gia Triveri, Devyn Tusinac, Emma Vondran, Owen Waller, Austin Ward, Aidan Wittman, Jacob Wolf, Syydney Yauger, Andrew Yocum, Ava Young, Rees Beckman Sandra Breen, Samantha Hoffman, Megan Bendel, Olivia Garland and Robert Williamson.
      A total of 58 juniors and six seniors were inducted based on their dedication to the four pillars of NHS---Scholarship, Service, Leadership and Character.
      To be eligible for consideration for NHS, a student must be a junior or senior and have a minimum 3.2 cumulative grade point average.
  Transportation Director Off The Job After Being Pinned Under A 3-Ton Tractor  
  April 7, 2022 Edition  
     On Mar. 16, the Boardman Local School Board held a special meeting, during which Kathy Fait was granted a one-year, limited contract as interim supervisor of transportation for the school district, effective Feb. 22.
      Her appointment to the post came after the system’s Director of Transportation, Ryan Dunn, 31, was involved in an accident at the system’s school bus garage at 8252 Raupp Ave.
      Police were called to the bus garage at 4:19 p.m. on Fri., Feb. 18. They were told that Dunn was trying to move a 3-ton International Harvester tractor.
      At some point, police were told, Dunn got off the tractor, while it was apparently still in gear and slowly moving forward.
      “The tractor drove-up Dunn’s leg to the middle of his lower back, before coming to a stop, pinning Dunn to the ground,” Ptl. Troy Mackall said.
      Dunn was eventually freed by Boardman Fire Department personnel and was transported to Mercy Health/Youngstown for further medical assistance.
      A witness to the accident was identified as 15-year-old Gregory Carbon, police said.
  Boardman Civic Association Announces Officers-Events For 2022  
  April 7, 2022 Edition  
     Boardman, Ohio — Although the COVID-19 Pandemic caused many uncertainties, the
      Boardman Civic Association was thrilled to be able to hold all four of its events in-person in 2021, honoring both individuals and businesses that have helped create a strong community.
      BCA has set the dates for their 2022 events.
       • Scholarship Awards Dinner, Mon., May 16
       • Candidates/Issues Dinner, Mon., Sept. 19
       • Community Awards Dinner, Mon., Oct. 17
      For the third year in a row, BCA will maintain its current officers for the 2022 year. The reelected officers are as follows:
       • President – Tommy Testa
       • Vice President – Meg Harris
       • Secretary – Mark Luke
       • Treasurer – Jeff Barone
      BCA is also excited to announce that they have added a new member to the Board of Directors. Makenna Ozenghar, Vice President, Client Service of Farris Marketing, has joined the Board.
      The Boardman Civic Association is a group of local business, civic and community leaders that are invested in the growth and development of the Boardman area. The Boardman Civic Association welcomes any Boardman resident or business to join and participate in its events. Visit www.BoardmanCivic.com for more information or contact Meg Harris at MHarris1421@yahoo.com
  NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING  
  April 7, 2022 Edition  
     NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING
      The Boardman Township Board of Appeals shall hold a Public Hearing on Tuesday, April 19, 2022 at 7:00 PM, go to https://www.boardmantwp.com/zoning/board-of-zoning-appeals/ for further information for consideration of the following cases:
      APPEAL CASE AC-2022-10
      ASTRO MCCLURG LLC, property owner, 415 McClurg Rd., Boardman, Ohio 44512, requests a variance from the terms of the Boardman Township Zoning Resolution, effective January 1, 2021, Article 6.01 Accessory and Temporary Use Regulations (C) (3) for a height increase from sixteen feet (16’) to eighteen and a half feet (18.5’). The property is further known as GL 31 DIV 4, Parcel 29-038-0-016.00-0. Said property is currently zoned I-Industrial, located in Boardman Township, Mahoning County, State of Ohio.
      APPEAL CASE AC-2022-11
      LAAD Sign on behalf of MEIJER STORES LIMITED PARTNERSHIP, property owner, 1400 Boardman Canfield Rd., Boardman, Ohio 44512, requests a variance from the terms of the Boardman Township Zoning Resolution, effective January 1, 2021, Article 12.11 Permanent Signs in Nonresidential Zoning Districts Table 1: Maximum Building Sign Area Allowance per facade to increase sign allowance by an additional forty three (43) Square foot of signage & (7) (c) for a projecting sign 6.56 SF larger than allowed and internally illuminated. The property is further known as LOT 1 TOO LARGE FOR DIMENSIONS MEIJER STORES LIMITED PARTNERSHIP PLAT NO 1 Parcel 32-090-0-021.00-0. Said property is zoned GB-General Business, in Boardman Township, Mahoning County, State of Ohio.
      APPEAL CASE AC-2022-12
      Fast Signs on behalf of BDMN REAL ESTATE ASSOC, property owner, 1280 Boardman Canfield Rd. Boardman, Ohio 44512, requests a variance from the terms of the Boardman Township Zoning Resolution, effective January 1, 2021, Article 12.11 Permanent Signs in Nonresidential Zoning Districts Table 2 to reduce the required five foot (5’) front property line setback to zero (0’). The property is further known as LOT 3 150 X 300 ROYCE CIRCLE PLAT 2, Parcel 29-090-0-024.04-0. Said property is zoned GB-General Business, in Boardman Township, Mahoning County, State of Ohio.
      APPEAL CASE AC-2022-13
      CARNEGIE MANAGEMENT AND DEVELOPMENT CORPORATION, property owner, 1500 Boardman Canfield Rd. Boardman, Ohio 44512, requests a variance from the terms of the Boardman Township Zoning Resolution, effective January 1, 2021, Article 4.07 Permitted Uses (3) Conditional Uses to operate a carwash. The property is further known as LOT 2 190.45 X 289.64 IRR MERCY HEALTH YOUNGSTOWN LLC PLAT NO 1, Parcel 32-090-0-021.02-0. Said property is zoned GB-General Business, in Boardman Township, Mahoning County, State of Ohio.
      APPEAL CASE AC-2022-14
      Janice Jones, property owner, 446 Tudor Lane, Boardman, Ohio 44512, requests a variance from the terms of the Boardman Township Zoning Resolution, effective January 1, 2021, Article 7.05 Fencing, Walls, Hedges, and Similar Structures (E) (3) (a) (i) to have a six foot (6’) fence up to (2) two feet from the property line on a corner lot. The property is further known as LOT 151 70 X 195 IRR N ENG LANES 4OT 38 101.7 X 163 IRR HITCHCOCK WOODS PL 1, Parcel 29-009-0-319.00-0. Said property is zoned R1-B-Residential, in Boardman Township, Mahoning County, State of Ohio.
      Text and maps of the request may be viewed at the Boardman Township Zoning Office, 8299 Market Street, Boardman, Ohio 44512 Monday through Friday, between the hours of 8:00 AM and 4:00 PM, until time of hearing. Please call 330-726-4181 or email requests to tdavignon@boardmantwp.com.
      Atty. John F. Shultz, Chairman
      Boardman Township Board of Appeals
      Tricia D’Avignon, AICP
      Assistant Director of Zoning and Development
  LEGAL NOTICE  
  April 7, 2022 Edition  
     LEGAL NOTICE
      The Boardman Township Zoning Commission will conduct a Public Hearing on the following amendment to the Boardman Township Zoning Resolution and Township Zoning Map on Tuesday, April 19, 2022 at 5:00 PM. Go to https://www.boardmantwp.com/zoning/zoning-commission/ for further information.
      Following the recommendation of the Zoning Commission, the proposed amendment will be referred to the Board of Trustees for final determination.
      AMENDMENT A-2022-02
      Baker, Bednar, Snyder & Assoc. on behalf of TOB KIA REAL ESTATE LLC, property owner, requests a zone change for 7870 Market St., Boardman, Ohio 44512, from the terms of the Boardman Township Zoning Resolution, effective January 1, 2021, in order to change the property in its’ entirety to GB-General Business zoning district. The property is further known as LOT 1 386.10 X 770.00 (IRR) TAYLOR KIA PLAT NO. 1, Parcel 29-093-0-033.00-0. Said property is currently zoned GB-General Business & R-1 Residential, located in Boardman Township, Mahoning County, State of Ohio.
      AMENDMENT A-2022-03
      Universal Development on behalf of C & D Interests LLC, property owner, requests a zone change for Tippecanoe Rd., Boardman, Ohio 44406, from the terms of the Boardman Township Zoning Resolution, effective January 1, 2021, in order to change the property to PUD-Planned Unit Development zoning district. The property is further known as GL 11 DIV 4, Parcel 29-117-0-004.00-0. Said property is currently zoned AG-Agricultural, located in Boardman Township, Mahoning County, State of Ohio.
      To view a hard copy of the texts and maps at the Boardman Township Zoning Office, 8299 Market Street, Boardman, Ohio 44512 Monday through Friday, between the hours of 8:00 AM and 4:00 PM, until time of hearing, please call 330-726-4181 or email requests to tdavignon@boardmantwp.com.
      Peter W. Lymber, Chairman
      Boardman Township Zoning Commission
      Tricia D’Avignon, AICP
      Assistant Director of Zoning and Development
  Trustees Set 2022 Operating Budget At $22.659 Million  
  March 31, 2022 Edition  
     BY JOHN A. DARNELL JR.
      associate editor
      Meeting on Monday night, Boardman Township’s Board of Trustees, Larry Moliterno, Tom Costello and Brad Calhoun approved an operating budget of $22.659 million for 2022, an increase of $1.17 million over 2021.
      The budget includes $603,932 in funding from the American Relief Act.
      Some $9.507 million of the 2022 budget goes to the police department. $4.842 million is budgeted for the fire department, $3.617 million will go to the road department, and $436,863 for the office of planning/zoning. The police department’s budget reflects an increase of some $500,000 over its 2021 budget.
      Also included in the budget is $1.99 million for administration/fiscal, and $995,667 for Federal Emergency Management Agency projects in the Wildwood Dr.-Ewing Rd. area.
      Trustees formally swore-in Shawn Conroy as a captain in the Boardman Fire Department.
      Fire Chief Mark Pitzer said that Conroy is a nine year veteran of his department.
      “He is a good steward of the fire service, a good leader and a valuable asset to the fire department,” Pitzer said.
      Trustees approved liquor permits requests for the Fire Fox Cafe, 7393 California Ave.; Roxbury Pizza Co., 558 East Western Reserve Rd. and Combine Brothers Bar and Grille, 7412 Market St.
      Chris McFall addressed the board about the request by Fire Fox, saying he will be investing $250,000 into the business (where a hookah bar is now located) and has plans for a lunch and dinner menu, and will create a bar and patio area.
      McFall said he expects the business to have an annual payroll of between $400,000 and $500,000, and he expects the transition to be completed by October or November for the restaurant and bar.
      McFall said recently completed renovations at the Southern Park Mall were a factor in his decision to invest in the Fire Fox.
      Tom Guerrieri, of Daffodil Trail, made a plea to Trustees for road resurfacing in the Ivy Hills neighborhood.
      Guerrieri said there are about 100 residents of his neighborhood and noted the first four-tenths of a mile of roadway are in deplorable condition. Moliterno, chairman of the Board of Trustees, said a firm has been hired to study township roads and the results of the survey will determine what roadways will be resurfaced this year.
      “The survey is the right thing to do for the 40,000 residents of Boardman Township,” Moliterno said.
      Road Superintendent Marilyn Kenner said grant monies are used for the annual resurfacing program, and daily traffic volume is a requirement for obtaining grant funds.
      She added that sales tax monies can also be used for road resurfacing and they are not dependent on traffic counts.
      There are about 144 miles of township maintain road in Boardman and resurfacing costs are about $120,000 per mile, Moliterno noted.
      Mrs. George Turner, of 84 Mill Creek Dr., expressed concerns over the Western Reserve Transit Authority’s proposal to turn Market St. into a two-lane highway for cars (also with a turning lane).
      Moliterno replied WRTA’s proposal is “not necessarily the best plan,” adding “We have no control over this.”
      Mr. Turner told the board since the Ohio Department of Transportation has closed Brookwood Rd. (for a traffic study) “Brookwood is more hazardous than ever.”
      “We did not approve of that closing,” Chairman Moliterno responded.
     
  The Mighty Oak Trees  
  At Boardman Park:   March 31, 2022 Edition  
     Boardman Park is fortunate to have several very large magnificent Northern Red Oaks grace its landscape. Four of these Oaks can be seen along the North Trail. These beauties are most likely a couple of hundred years old. The stately Oaks, along with all the other trees, are the foundation of the park’s beautiful landscape.
      “I can’t imagine the Green Oasis without trees,” says the park’s executive director, Dan Slagle.
      The Northern Red Oak trees have many uses, and they are quite beneficial to both humans and animals. The tree provides shelter for nesting for mammals and birds. Many birds, rabbits, deer, squirrels as well as insects feed on the leaves, seedlings, and acorns of the tree.
      Environmentally, these Oaks sequester carbon in their mass as they grow. The Oaks convert large quantities of carbon dioxide to various organic compounds that make up wood. Oak trees therefore provide a means for helping to offset the increase in atmospheric carbon dioxide levels related to the use of fossil fuels.
      Oak canopies also mitigate the effects of global warming by reducing ground surface temperatures.
      “On a hot summer day at the Green Oasis you can find a nice cool spot to relax and picnic under of one our oaks Trees.” Slagle says, adding “ They also improve air quality by storing carbon dioxide and exhaling oxygen through the process of photosynthesis. The leaves of an oak tree absorb airborne pollutants. It has been observed that one tree can absorb up to 10 lbs. of air pollution in a single year.”
      Oaks reduce water pollution by absorbing fertilizer nutrients, pesticides and other trace contaminants in soil, allowing compounds to break down slowly and be taken up as nutrients. Just one of these large oak trees will intercept and mitigate 7,000 gallons of stormwater each year, which helps slow the eroding energy of rain by intercepting rainwater on leaves and stems surfaces during storms.
      Identifying Features
      Leaves of Red Oak are alternate, moderately shiny, broadly obovate, with seven to eleven lobes that have bristles terminating each tooth on the forward-pointing lobes. Red Oak often has impressive late fall color, ranging from brick red to scarlet, although some trees may have golden- yellow, yellow-brown, or chartreuse foliage in autumn.
      The Flower of Red Oak is monoecious (both male and female flowers on the same tree), having pendulous pollen-bearing catkins in mid-spring that are the ‘showy’ golden-brown flowers seen from a distance.
      Fruit of the Oak is an acorn, which results from the miniature female flowers that take two years to develop into mature acorns. As such, they are not obvious until the second year, when they fill out rapidly during the summer and ripen.
      The bark of the immature Red Oak is light gray, very reflective in the winter sun, and surprisingly smooth. As the bark matures, it develops shiny gray flattened ridges that have intervening darker fissures. Only on very aged specimens lowermost portion of the trunk will have deep furrows and tall ridges with a dark gray to near-black color.
      This article is one of several stories
      The Boardman News will provide this year
      as Boardman Park observes its
      75th anniversary.
  DNA Testing Said To Narrow List Of Potential Suspects In 50-Year-Old Murder Case  
  The Body Of 12-Year-Old Bradley Bellino Was Found In A Dumpster On Apr. 4, 1972 Behind The Boardman Plaza:   March 31, 2022 Edition  
     BY JOHN A. DARNELL JR.
      associate editor
      The Boardman Police Department is continuing an investigation into the homicide 50 years ago of 12-year-old Bradley Bellino, whose body was found in a dumpster behind the Boardman Plaza on Apr. 4, 1972. Bellino was a fifth grade student in the Boardman Local Schools at the time of his murder.
      A belt (from JCPenney) was found strapped around his neck. The strap bore teeth marks; and body fluid, not Bellino’s, was later discovered on the boy’s pants.
      On Apr. 12, 1972, then Mahoning County Coroner Dr. David Belinky ruled Bellino’s death was the result of strangulation. Dr. Belinky said the interval between the onset of death and actual death was “sudden,” and suggested the lad may have been sexually molested.
      Three years ago, police contracted with Parabon Nanolabs, of Reston, Va. to conduct snapshot, genetic genealogy analysis of DNA evidence, including body fluids.
      “DNA testing has continued since that time and we have been collecting the DNA of potential suspects,” Capt. Albert Kakascik of the Boardman police Department told The Boardman News.
      After an intensive investigation following the discovery of the body, for years the investigation into the Bellino murder stood dormant, until 2001, when the Boardman Police Department revisited the case but could not develop any new leads. However, sources suggest a list of at least 20 possible suspects had been developed, and several search warrants were served on possible suspects, to no avail.
      “Only four or five of those people seemed to stand out,” Capt. Kakascik said.
      50 years ago, 12-year-old Bradley Bellino, of 61 McClurg Rd., left home at noon, apparently walking to the home of a friend, Donald Templeton, 733 Teakwood Dr., in Applewood Acres.
      A criminal complaint obtained by The Boardman News says about 7:30 p.m. on Mar. 31, the boy failed to return home, and the following day, Debbie Bellino notified police about 3:20 p.m. that Bradley was missing.
      Three days later, at 8:02 a.m. on Apr. 4, employees of Varie Bros. Trash Co. called police saying they found a body in a dumpster behind the Boardman Plaza.
  Issue Over Parking School Bus In A Driveway On Residential Property Now Before Court  
  March 24, 2022 Edition  
     BY JOHN A. DARNELL JR.
      associate editor
      After 13 visits to 8057 Aquadale Dr. since Jan. 7, 2021, Boardman Township’s Planning and Zoning has filed suit in Mahoning County Common Pleas Court seeking to have a 45-ft. long school removed from the property.
      The school bus that has been parked on the driveway of the property for more than a year.
      Named as defendants in the court action are Stanley Feret, 8057 Aquadale Dr.; Andrea Osiniak, 74 Forest Garden Dr.; Stasha Feret, (also known as Stasha Dyke), 3253 Hazelwood Ave., Downingtown, Pa.; and Luanna Feret-McNichol, 529 West Embargo St., Rome, New York.
      In addition to the school bus, parked and/or stored on the property are vehicles and trailers in the yard, as well as an oversized recreational vehicle.
      According to the lawsuit, using the property for storage is in violation of the zoning code, as it relates to residential areas.
      “Defendants were notified that they were in violation of the Boardman Township Zoning Resolution…[and] have failed to come into compliance,” says the suit filed by Mahoning County Assistant Prosecutor Karen Markulin Gaglione. Dating back to May, 2021, defendants in the matter have been notified at least three times by the county prosecutor’s office that using the property for storage of vehicles, including the school bus, is in violation of the Boardman Township zoning codes.
      “In order to avoid potential criminal and/or civil enforcement action, you must abate any and all outstanding zoning violations,” Gaglione said.
      “Since the vehicle bus exceeds the 24-foot allowable limit, it is not allowed to be parked on the property,” Beth Duzzny, Boardman Township property maintenance program coordinator said.
     
      PICTURE: BOARDMAN TOWNSHIP HAS FILED A COMPLAINT FOR A permanent injunction to prohibit storage of a 45-ft. school bus on the property at 8057 Aquadale Dr. Township zoning officials have visited the property 13 times since Jan. 7, 2021 In addition, the Mahoning County Prosecutor’s Office has, at least on three occasions, notified the property owner the bus must be moved, in order to bring the property into compliance with township zoning regulations.
  Gorant Sisters Take Bite Out Of Life’s Second Half  
  Develop Podcast About Relationships With Adult Children:   March 17, 2022 Edition  
      Two sisters, Denise Gorant Gliwa and Connie Gorant Fisher, both in their mid-60s, and born and bred in Youngstown, recently launched the podcast, Bite Your Tongue — building healthy relationships with your adult children.
      The sisters, who both attended Boardman High School and worked weekends and holidays at their father’s well-known candy company - Gorant’s Chocolatiers, are excited about sharing this new venture.
      “It was kind of on a whim,” said Denise. “We hit a point in our lives where our kids were gone, we’d been working at the same craft of over 30-years and wanted something new to learn, she added.
      The two knew they wanted to launch a podcast, but picking the topic became tricky.
      The sisters, along with another dear friend, Dr. Ellen Braaten, a Harvard psychologist who specializes in younger children, began exploring subjects of interest.
      The three woman had raised their now adult children together and realized that although everyone was talking about the ins and outs of their relationships with their adult kids, grand-parenting and when to bite their tongues, there was not a podcast dedicated to the topic.
      “There were a few episodes we found that dealt with the topic,” said Ellen, “but nothing that explored it to the level that we wanted to do it.”
      So the idea was born.
      “This was always my sister’s idea, said Connie, adding “She’s been thinking about doing podcast for years and I came along for the ride.
      “Ellen and Denise became the hosts and I became the software engineer. It was learning curve for me because technology was never my thing, but learning something new at this stage of my life is a good way to keep my brain active and growing.”
      “We are having a lot of fun,” said Denise, but doing a podcast, even twice a month, is harder than we anticipated.
      “Ellen, who is also writing a book and spends half of her time in Prague, is not always able to join us, but we keep plugging away.”
      Each episode explores different areas of parenting adult children. They have 26 episodes under their belts and listenership is growing.
      One of the most popular episodes has been “When they are Grown: The Real Pain Begins,” with Williams College Professor Dr. Susan Engle who wrote a story with that same title in The New York Times.
      Other episodes cover topics such as:
       •Whose Wedding is it Anyway: Discussing the stress of wedding planning
       •After the Empty Nest: Building Our Own Lives
       •Talk the Talk: Strategies and Tools for Giving Advice
       •Talking to Your Adult Kids About Finance
       •When They are Grown: The Real Pain Begins
       •Mothering Difficult Adult Children
       •Legal Documents your Adult Children need Now
       •Mental Health Matters
       •When Grown Kids Disappoint Us
      The list goes on an on. They find top experts in the fields including authors, celebrities, speakers and the media.
      “The most difficult part is finding the very best guests with the best experience who can really address our topics.” says Denise.
      “It’s important”, she adds, “because these years when our children are adults is the longest relationship we will have with them. Let’s make it a good one.”
      Connie adds that some people have said,“parenting adult kids, we are done. But really it is not about parenting, but instead continuing a healthy and connected relationship.”
      Both sisters remember their time in Boardman so fondly and visit often.
      “There is no place like home,” says Connie. “And we hope our friends and family in the Mahoning Valley will enjoy connecting with us through this podcast.”
      You can listen to the podcast by visiting the website at biteyourtonguepodcast.com or it is also available on Apple Podcast, Spotify or wherever you listen to your podcasts.
      Feel free to reach out to them with ideas or thoughts about the podcast or episodes you love. Email biteyourtonguepodcast@gmail.com
  WRTA Advisor Suggests 2-Lane Highway For Cars On Market St.  
  Concept Could Increase Traffic Through Residential Areas:   March 17, 2022 Edition  
     BY JOHN A. DARNELL JR.
      associate editor
      A principal technical specialist for a world-wide professional service firm suggested to Boardman Trustees on Monday night changing Market St., at least from Midlothian Blvd. as far south at Mercy Health (McClurg Rd.), into a two-lane highway with outside lanes on both sides of the road preserved (dedicated) for use by public busses and bicyclists. “There would be turning lanes,” said the technical specialist.
      Timothy Rosenberger, of WSP USA, said the proposal has been under development “and the next step is a design phase to determine precisely what to do.” WSP employs some 49,000 persons world-wide. According to its web site, the firm provides technical expertise and strategic advice to clients in many areas, including transportation and infrastructure, as well as property and buildings.
      In 2020, the Western Reserve Transit Authority (WRTA) received a $250,000 United States Department of Transportation grant to develop a comprehensive transit-oriented development – or TOD – plan for the Market Street corridor in Youngstown and Boardman.
      “It’s a way of trying to enhance transportation connections,” said Dean Harris, WRTA executive director said at the time.
      The WRTA says a “Transit-Oriented Development (TOD) is land development that makes it easier and safer for people to get around by walking, biking or using public transit. Most new development in the past half century has been oriented to driving, with the result that land uses (like retail, housing, and office space) are strictly separated and buildings are surrounded by a sea of parking. TOD attempts to put public transit, bicycling, and walking on an even playing field with driving.
      “Market Street in the city of Youngstown has many older buildings in a state of disrepair, and vacant parcels ripe for redevelopment. The intent of the TOD plan is to use upgraded transit and multimodal infrastructure improvements and connections to create new economic initiatives like redeveloping and repurposing buildings that are in disrepair, and constructing new development on available parcels.”
      According to the WRTA, “The Boardman portion of the corridor needs sidewalk and crosswalk improvements to benefit pedestrians, and also offers many opportunities for ‘in-fill’ development.”
      “In many ways, TOD is a return to the way that Youngstown and its neighborhoods were built in the late 19th and early 20th centuries, when most people traveled on foot or by streetcar. The ultimate goal of TOD is to create dense, walkable villages around key transit stations, in which most of the resident’s daily needs – groceries, coffee shops, health clubs, restaurants, schools, churches – are within a short (15 minute or less) walk, while jobs, educational and health care opportunities in other parts of the city are accessible by bus,” the transit authority says.
      Rosenberger said the quarter-million-dollar grant “opens the way for improvements at bus stops all along Market St.” He then suggested the “idea of putting special treatment bus lanes (including on Market St. in Boardman) so busses don’t compete with traffic…and bicycles and delivery vehicles” could also use those lanes.
      Boardman Trustee Larry Moliterno replied to that concept saying such a plan would likely increase congestion on Market St., adding Boardman Township does not have “auxiliary roads” to handle more traffic on Market St.
      Rosenberger suggested a TOD plan could be used to spur economic development along Market St. in Boardman, including with townhouse or apartment buildings on the site of the current Center Middle School, or at the Southern Park Mall.
      He said state and federal funding is being sought for “lighted shelters” at WRTA bus stops. Rosenberger said ridership on WRTA busses that service Boardman Township is “about 200 persons a day,” and the transit authority “needs to attract more riders.”
      Tabled until a later date was a motion to hire legal counsel for potential fire code enforcement at a building at 5600 Market St. Fire Chief Mark Pitzer said there were “concerns” over use of the second floor of the building for apartments that do not meet fire codes.
      “We could be in court unless they comply with the fire code,” the fire chief said.
      In other matters, Township Trustees awarded a bid of $581,188 to Boak and Sons for roof replacement at the Boardman Township Road Department garage; and authorized the purchase of eleven sets of body armor for the Police Department at a cost of $13,386. Police Chief Todd Werth said upwards of 75 per cent of the cost will come from grant money.
  Sean O’Horo Sixth At Ohio Wrestling Championships  
  March 17, 2022 Edition  
     Boardman High School senior Sean O’Horo took sixth place last weekend in Div. I in the 175-lb. bracket at the Ohio State wrestling championships held at the Schotenstein Center in Columbus. O’Horo ended his season with a 45-4 record.
      After winning his first two matches, O’Horo dropped a 9-0 decision to Chase Stein of LaSalle; and then was blanked by Kurt Thompson of Cincinnati Moeller, 11-0. During that match, O’Horo tweaked a ham string and forfeited his match for fifth place with Mitchell Broskie of Dublin Coffman.
      It was against Broskie that O’Horo earned a semifinal berth with a 4-3 decision over the #3-rated wrestler from Dublin Coffman. In the first period of the match, Broskie notched the first two points with a reversal, but O’Horo came back with two seconds left in the period for a reversal to knot things at 2-2. The second period saw Broskie riding strong on the top position, but again near the end of the period, O’Horo scored two more points with a reversal and a 4-2 lead going into the final period, where Broskie escaped for a point, but O’Horo held on to claim a 4-3 victory..
      O’Horo opened the state tournament against Jerrell Young, of Cleveland St. Ignatius. He was down 2-1 in the final minute of the third period, and secured a victory in the match with a final second pin over Young.
      “Sean was banged-up in his semifinal loss which made Sunday morning’s wrestle back match tough to get ready for. He couldn’t warm up the way he needed to and it showed, losing 11-0. After that we thought it wasn’t a good idea to try and wrestle for fifth place so he medically defaulted to finish sixth place.
      “The state championship is a tough tournament and so many factors come into play. Sean was on a roll and we had a shot to get into the finals, but it didn’t go that way,” Boardman Head Coach Dom Mancini said.
      Luke Geog of Lakewood St. Ed won the 175-lb state title with a major decision over Stein.
      South Range High School sent three wrestlers to the state meet, including Ray Cmil, in the Div. III 132-lb. class. Cmil wrestled his first, two prep seasons at Boardman High School.
      Cmil garnered a second place finish, dropping the championship match to Hunter Long, of Wayne Trace.
      In the 106-lb. bracket, the Raiders Hunter Newell placed seventh; and in the 165-lb. division, Lorgan Cormell claimed a seventh place.
  Board Okays $4,878 Contract For Mental Health Services  
  Goal Of Minimizing Disruptive Behaviors and Decreasing Classroom Removals:   March 10, 2022 Edition  
     Meeting in February, the Boardman Board of Education approved a contract with the Alta Care Group, 7620 Market St., for mental health services for Boardman High School students and staff at a cost of $4,878.
      According to the contract, “Services to be provided for the benefit of Boardman Local School students and faculty include some or all of the following...in a manner consistent with the school system’s protocol for referrals to outside mental health providers, and determined to be appropriate by the Mental Health Individualized Treatment Plan, if one so exists:
       •Behavioral consultation services to students, teachers, and/or any Student Assistance Team members toward the goal of minimizing disruptive behaviors and decreasing classroom removals (i.e. suspensions, expulsions, etc.) so as to increase exposure to the learning environment.
       •Attendance at student specific school meetings as necessary and appropriate.
       •All necessary paperwork necessary for the fulfillment of job responsibilities.
       •...Any services described in this agreement that must be performed on the premises of Boardman Local Schools will be performed during hours that are determined by [Alta Care] (totaling six hours per day), but at a time that is mutually convenient to [Alta Care] and the Boardman Local Schools.
      The school board accepted the following resignations:
       •Betsy McCrate, high school math teacher, effective June 30; Rabia Ait El Madani, high school cleaning, effective March 16; Anita Burns, Stadium Drive Elementary School noontime monitor, effective February 22; and Joanne Gardner, Stadium Drive Elementary School noontime monitor, effective February 25.
      The school board approved the following appointments:
       •Daniel Dota, one-year limited contract for the 2022-2023 school year effective August 15. Dota earned his bachelor’s and master’s degrees from Youngstown State University. He will be a health and physical education teacher at Boardman High School replacing Seth Antram. Dota replaced Antram as head football coach at Boardman.
       •Lauren Gerberry, one-year limited contract for the 2022-2023 school year effective August 15. Ms. Gerberry earned her bachelor’s and master’s degrees from Youngstown State University. She will be a science teacher at Boardman High School replacing Mark J. D’Eramo
       •Suna Abukwaik, one-year limited contract as a Teacher Aide at Robinwood Elementary School for the 2021-2022 school year effective March 1. This is a new position.
       •Ryan Campana, one-year limited contract as a custodian at Center Intermediate School effective January 31. He is replacing Brian Huddleston.
       •James Higham, one-year limited contract as a bus driver for the 2021-2022 school year. He is replacing Lara Wanamaker.
       •Esther Plourde, one-year limited contract as a teacher aide at Robinwood Elementary School for the 2021-2022 school year. She is replacing Kyle Gray.
      Supplemental contracts were awarded to Rick Sypert, high school girls cross country head coach; Lindsay Bates, high school girls softball assistant coach; Fred Mootz, high school girls softball head coach; and Matt Pavone, high school girls lacrosse head coach.
     
  ‘We Need To Pray For An End To This Evil’  
  March 10, 2022 Edition  
     “I invite all to pray for the people of Ukraine...What is happening there
      right now is beyond words and is so unjust.”... We need to pray for the
      people of the Ukraine. We need to pray for an end to this unjust action.
      We need to pray for an end to evil,”
      Bishop David J. Bonnar, head of the Catholic Diocese of Youngstown
     
      “With the weight of the atrocities happening in the world, especially to the people of Ukraine, we feel it is important for our community to come together and stand in solidarity as people who are about peace and non-violence.”
      Pastor Erin Shank of Trinity Episcopal Church, New Castle, Pa.
  Help Wanted  
  Assistant Road Superintendent:   March 10, 2022 Edition  
     BOARDMAN TOWNSHIP ROAD DEPARTMENT Full Time Assistant Road Superintendent
      The Boardman Township Trustees are seeking to fill the position of Full Time Assistant Road Superintendent. Applicants are required to possess a valid Ohio Driver’s CDL A or B License, work experience in construction or road maintenance, working knowledge of Microsoft Office products, and pass a pre-employment physical and drug test. Full job description available at www.boardmantwp.com/road. Interested applicants may send a resume to bmetzger@boardmantwp.com or mail to Boardman Township Road Department, 8299 Market Street, Boardman, Ohio 44512. Deadline to apply is March 30, 2022. No walk-in or late resumes will be accepted. Boardman Township is an equal opportunity employer.
      William D. Leicht, Fiscal Officer
     
  44th St. Patrick’s Parade Gets Underway Sun., Mar. 13  
  March 10, 2022 Edition  
     Market St., from Roche Way to Southwoods Dr., will be the site of the 44th St. Patrick’s Day Parade that gets underway on Sun., Mar. 13 at 1:00 p.m. More than 120 units will march in the event that attracts upwards to 25,000 persons along the parade route. Special honorees at this year’s event will be H. William ‘Bill’ Lawson, executive director of the Mahoning Valley Historical Society; Mahoning County Court Judge Scott Hunter, Lord Mayor of Kilkenny; and Kurt Hilderbrand, Ockerman Award.
      Grand Marshal - Bill Lawson
      H. William ‘Bill’ Lawson is Executive Director of the Mahoning Valley Historical Society. Lawson has worked for the Historical Society for 33 years, and served as executive director since 1991.
      Lawson is a Mahoning Valley native, and received his primary and secondary education in the Boardman Local Schools. He earned Bachelor of Arts and Master of Arts Degrees in History from YSU. He has researched, written and lectured extensively on the history of the Mahoning Valley.
      Lawson is a former board member of the Ohio Museums Association, and a past board member and President of the Ohio Local History Alliance. He is a 15-year member and Past President of the Rotary Club of Youngstown, the area’s first service club, and a board member of Youngstown CityScape, a development organization focusing on improvements in the central City.
      Lawson and his wife, Joan, a Religious Education Consultant for the Catholic Diocese of Youngstown, are active members of St. Patrick Church. Together they enjoy traveling, hunting for antiques and collectibles and maintaining a vintage camper trailer and paddling on Guilford Lake in Columbiana County. They are the parents of two children: Meghan E. Lawson, a licensed massage therapist at Spinal Care Chiropractic Center in Columbiana County, and Brian W. Lawson, an electroencephalography technician at University Hospitals in Cleveland.
      Lord Mayor of Kilkenny - Scott Hunter
      Judge Scott D. Hunter is a lifelong resident of Mahoning County and a graduate of Canfield High School, Youngstown State University, and the University of Cincinnati College of Law.
      He has served as mayor of the City of Canfield and also served as a member of Canfield City Council and as Council President.
      He began his service as a Mahoning County Area Court Judge with his appointment to the position in July of 1999. He was elected to a full six-year term in the fall of 2000 and reelected in 2006, 2012, and 2018, serving the Area Courts located in Austintown, Boardman, Sebring and Canfield. Currently Judge Hunter serves as the Administrative and Presiding Judge for the Area Courts. He presided over the Misdemeanor Drug Court from April 2001 until April 2014, where he worked to expand it into a successful rehabilitative Court alternative.
      For his work with the Drug Court, Judge Hunter received the Excellence in Service Award, Volunteer Category from the Mahoning County Alcohol and Drug Addiction Services Board as well as the Hope Has A Home Award from the Neil Kennedy Recovery Clinic.
      He has maintained a private law practice for nearly 32 years and has been one of the owners of Hunter-Stevens Land Title Agency, Ltd. for over 22 years. He currently serves on the Board of Directors of the Mahoning County Agricultural Society and the Canfield Fair Foundation. He previously served as a member of the Board of Directors of United Community Financial Corporation and Home Savings Bank. He is involved in numerous community, church and civic activities and is a member of the Association of Municipal/County Judges of Ohio, the Ohio State Bar Association and the Ohio Land Title Association. He currently serves as Trustee of the Mahoning County Bar Association Foundation.
      He is married to the former Michelle Marino, and father to three daughters, Ashley, Emily (Christopher) Hammond and Katie, his step-daughter, Jessica, step-son, Austin, and grandfather to Hunter Mary.
      Ockerman Award - Kurt Hilderbrand
      Kurt Hilderbrand is the son of Beverly O’Neill Hilderbrand and Robert Hilderbrand and has lived in the Mahoning Valley his entire life. He is a graduate of Poland Seminary High School and a graduate of The Youngstown State University with a degree in Mechanical Engineering.
      He is married to Donna Slagle and together they have a son Kent, who is also involved as a Parade Marshal.
      Hilderbrand is a member of St. James Episcopal Church in Boardman where he served as Eucharistic Minister, Reader and served three terms on the Vestry.
      He has been involved in the Boy Scouts of America since 1985, he is an Eagle scout, and is currently serving as District Committee member and is Chair of the Stambaugh Properties Committee for the Great Trail Council. He previously served as Scoutmaster of Troop 80 North Lima, Oh. for 15 years, and was on the board of directors for the Greater Western Reserve Council, BSA. As a scouter he has been awarded the Order of the Arrow Vigil member, Silver Beaver Award, District Award of Merit, Wood Badge and Wood Badge Staffer.
      Hilderbrand is employed as Production Engineer with RWE Holding Company in New Castle, Pa. He has been a Parade Marshal since 2004.
      Casey Malone serves as president of the parade committee. Vice president is Mark Smith, and Robb Kale serves as treasurer, Sharon Sabatka, secretary; and Joe Illencik, head marshal. They are assisted by Tom Butler, Joe Calinger, Pat Chrystal, Marilyn Carroll, Julaine Gilmartin, Joyce Kale Pesta, John Sheridan, Mary Jane Venitti and Grant William.
  Boardman Park Observes Its 75th Anniversary Year  
  March 3, 2022 Edition  
     BY JOHN A. DARNELL JR.
      associate editor
      Boardman Park is observing its 75th anniversary this year.
      It was during the November, 1947 general elections that Boardman Township voters approved the establishment of a ‘free township park.’ The measure created Boardman Park, but did not approve any funds to operate such a park. Creation of Boardman Park was also approved after William F. Maag Jr. donated 72 acres of land for use as a public park, then situated in between the home of Justice of the Peace Edgar G. Diehm and some 50 acres of land that was to be used as radio transmitters for WFMJ.
      Named to the first Board of Park Commissioners were Lewis Barger, Hugh Manchester and Ralph P. Smith, who the following year placed a 1-mil tax levy on the ballot to provide funding for the park; while Chet Long and Walter Damon drew-up plans for picnic areas, roadways, fireplaces and pathways.
      “We want to utilize natural beauty and avoid any ‘formal’ park,” Barger said at the time.
      In 1948 the park district’s first real property tax levy was approved, which was a 1-mill levy, and 75 years later, Boardman Park continues to operate maintain, preserve, and improve the park on the equivalent of that levy.
      The size of the park has more than quadrupled since 1947, where today the park provides 60 acres for active recreational purposes and preserves 234 acres as green space and natural habitat.
      Following approval of the tax levy, Homer V. Holl was named the first superintendent of Boardman Park. He served until 1952. During his tenure, the first open-air pavilion, Edgewood, was constructed; and the park purchased it first tractor for $1,596.
      In addition, a baseball field was constructed with support from the Boardman Athletic Association; as well as a playground for children with equipment purchased for the site provided by the Boardman Kiwanis Club. The first baseball diamond in Boardman Park served as home field for Boardman High School baseball games, and as well for Boardman Little League (that first played there in 1955. Among those who played on that diamond were former Major League pitcher Lamar Jacobs and former New York Jets quarterback Joe ‘Willie’ Namath).
      When Mr. Holl stepped down as superintendent, Chuck Wedekind was named as his replacement, serving just two years before becoming superintendent of Mill Creek Park.
      He was replaced by Ivor N. Jenkins, who served as superintendent until 1975. During his tenure, in 1972, Olde St. James Church, among the oldest Episcopal church buildings east of the Mississippi River, was moved to Boardman Park and now graces its entrance off Boardman-Poland Rd. At one time the lawn in front of the church featured thousands of daffodils that bloomed in the springtime.
      When Jenkins exited as park superintendent, John Holzbach was named as his replacment. He served until 1992. During his tenure, Boardman Township observed the nation’s bicentennial and held observances at the park, attended by more than 10,000 people. The bicentennial observance cleared the way for Boardman Rotary Club’s annual Oktoberfest. (Prior to the bicentennial, large gatherings at the park were often spurned, as former superintendents Jenkins, and Holzbach expressed concerns the landscaping would be damaged by large crowds).
      Also during Holzbach’s tenure, the first Maple Syrup Festival was held at Boardman Park, in 1981; and two historic township homes were relocated to the park.
      In June, 1992, the park’s current superintendent, Daniel N. Slagle Jr., was appointed to the post (now called executive director).
      Mr. Slagle’s pledge was to improve programming at the park and one of his first efforts was to develop a master plan that reflected the mission statement of the district --- “To provide a diversity of recreational and educational opportunities in an environment that lends itself to pleasant family experience, and to preserve areas of natural habitat.”
      Under his tenure, a many capital inprovement projects have been completed --- with the support and generosity of the community, including Kids’ Town and Tot’s Town playgrounds, the Maag Outdoor Arts Theatre, Marge Hartman’s Paws Town, Elton Beard Family Cabin, Kenneth Hofmaster Pavilion, Hike & Bike Trail, a Veterans Memorial and the Lariccia Family Community Center. The park has also served as home for the annual Easter Egg Hunt of the Boardman Kiwanis Club, and provides a variety of activities every Halloween and as well, a Community Christmas celebration.
      On June 11, 1993, Janie S. Jenkins donated her property, the former Southern Park Stables, to Boardman Park. The site is the last remnant of the Southern Park Race Track. Established in 1908, Southern Park was a sports landmark in the area and consisted of 55 acres with a half-mile race track, numerous barns, a grandstand, flower gardens, picnic areas and a baseball field. Located approximately a mile and one-half south of Boardman Center (bounded by Market St., Washington Blvd. Southern Blvd. and McClurg Rd.) it was the enterprise of Senator David Tod, David Tod Arrel and H.H. Stambaugh. The race track was a popular site for high school track meets and thoroughbred horse racing, drawing crowds of more than 15,000 people during its heyday. In the early 1920s, a blimp landed at the track, attracting thousands of spectators. In 1986 the Southern Stables was placed on the National Register of Historic Places, one of two such sites maintained by Boardman Park (the other is Olde St. James Church).
      “On behalf of the Board of Park Commissioners---Joyce Mistovich, Trent Cailor and Ken Goldsboro---and our staff, we would like to express our deepest gratitude for the community’s ongoing support and appreciation of the Green Oasis and its mission.
      “Our purpose is to create wholesome opportunities to live and interact with family, friends, neighbors, and communities.
      “The park offers a variety of recreational facilities and programs year-round that enhance the quality of life for the Community it so proudly serves. The Green Oasis also provides environmental benefits to our community such as mitigating stormwater run-off, preserving wildlife habitats and protecting wetlands,” Executive Director Slagle said.
      There is one, great mystery surrounding Boardman Park---a rock said to be engraved with the initials ‘EB.’ The rock was said to be placed at Boardman Centre (now Rt. 224 and Market St.) when the founder of Boardman Township, Sen. Elijah Boardman, came here in 1798 from Milford, Conneticut. It was last seen in Boardman Park when Ivor Jenkins was superintendent.
      75 years after it was formed, an estimated 500,000 people visit Boardman Park annually.
      “We believe that the continued increase in the number of visitors clearly demonstrates that Boardman Park is one of the most popular areas for family recreation in the Mahoning Valley. The popularity of the park can be attributed to our community’s positive response and enthusiastic participation in the diverse and multigenerational programs we offer year-round, as well as our unique footprint of recreational facilities. Visitors can enjoy reservable indoor rooms and outdoor pavilions, tennis, pickle ball, and sand volleyball, baseball fields, an 18-hole disc golf course, bocce courts, Marge Hartman’s Paws Town dog park and four miles of ADA accessible walking trails that transverse the natural areas of the park,” Slagle said.
      Boardman Park operates on an annual budget of about $1.3 million.
      Property tax collections (still on the equivalent of the original 1947 levy) account for $765,694 of the park district’s revenues; and an indication of the many facilities are rented each year for family and special events, $370,120 in revenue comes from ‘charges for services,’ according to the Ohio Auditor of State.
  Nick Sainato Playing To The Beat Of His Own Drums In Nashville  
  March 3, 2022 Edition  
     BY ADRIANA TRAFFICANTE
      Boardman Bugle
      Nicholas Sainato was once roaming the halls of this very high school; and now he roams the streets of Nashville, Tenn. where he pursues his musical dreams.
      Boardman High School is indeed known for its fantastic performing arts program, but how could it bring somebody from the band room to the recording studio?
      I reached out to the 2006 graduate of Boardman High School---now drummer, producer, and songwriter for the band, Nightly, seeking an answer to this question.
      Sainato’s musical career began inside the walls of Boardman’s own Performing Arts Center. Performing in many music programs such as drumline in marching band, Jazz 1 and Symphonic Band, the experiences he became involved in at Boardman have really helped Sainato get to where he is now.
      “I think there were so many opportunities at Boardman; it gave you a lot of chances to try different things and see what you enjoy,” Sainato said.
      He explained how students he spent his high school years with inspired him to prosper in his music career and described “The talent pool at Boardman in music has always been ‘super great’ and inspiring, and pushes you to be a better musician.”
      Along with the students, he was also inspired by multiple teachers who led him along the path to his successful future in the music industry.
      In regard to BHS staff members, Sainato noted that “Mr. Tom Ruggieri (high school band director) and Mrs. Randy Nord (English teacher) were the two teachers that I felt inspired me and encouraged me to pursue music, or even just pursue a passion in general. They were always so supportive of in school accomplishments as well as outside accomplishments.”
      When asked what he would like to share with current high school students interested in pursuing a career in the arts, he advised, “Take advantage of all of the opportunities that Boardman has and be a part of as many ensembles, groups, and bands as possible. Also, take advantage of what your teachers have to offer. They are there to help you, and if you show interest and excitement in it, they are going to be way more willing to help.”
      Sainato was also involved in music outside of the school building during his high school years.
      He started a band with his friends to fill his time after hours.
      “My band that I had with my friends outside of school is what really pushed me into doing what I do now. We always did as many battle of the bands as we could, and ended up winning a bunch of money, gear, and recording time in studios which made me want to get into producing my own music.”
      His advice to current BHS students---“Be active in performing arts outside of school, whether it’s starting a band with your friends or joining a community ensemble/program, and spend as much time as possible into getting better while you’re in school.”
      Continuing in his passion for music, Sainato went to Youngstown State University where he
      studied and graduated with a music degree in Jazz Performance. He also attended Berklee College of
      Music in Boston along with Musicians Institute in Los Angeles.
      When asked how his college education assisted him in his career, Sainato responded, “School just helped me hone in my skills as a musician and gave me confidence in myself.”
      His years after high school and through college led him now to Nashville.
      Elaborating on his journey around the country, he stated that he lived in Los Angeles for a year before moving to Nashville in 2014, where professional career really began to take off.
      He commented about how once he moved to Nashville, he “started playing in a bunch of bands and also with different country artists.” He recalls that he met the lead singer of his band at church, where they became friends. He asked Sainato to join a band that he and his cousin were starting, and that is how he got into his current job.
      Traveling from Boardman to Los Angeles, he finally landed in Nashville, Tennessee, where he
      currently pursues a professional career in music. Sainato takes the role of the drummer in his band along with producing and songwriting.
      Sainato describes some of the most exciting opportunities and experiences he’s had since pursuing a professional career in music.
      He said that some of these had recently consisted of “touring with some awesome artists and friends like NF, the Band Camino, Lennon Stella, and Andy Grammer, as well as playing at music festivals like Bonnaroo, Austin City Limits and Hangout Fest.”
      Sainato was also asked about the future of his career, and while Covid 19 had a huge effect on the performing arts industry, he said “I’m just excited to continue to grow as an artist and songwriter and keep making music I enjoy, as well as finally being able to go back on tour.
      “I grew up listening to so many different bands and artists that I loved, and it’s the only thing I really wanted to do.
      “No matter what anyone tells you or how hard people may make it seem, anything is possible if it’s what you really want to do, and only you can make that happen. Just keep doing what you love, and everything will fall into place.”
     
      This article was written by Adriana Trafficante, reporter, of the Boardman High School newspaper, The Bugle. The Boardman News will periodically highlight stories from The Bugle, to highlight high school journalism.
  United Way Campaign Raises Record $3.476 Million  
  March 3, 2022 Edition  
     When the Covid 19 pandemic heightened urgent and emerging needs, United Way was uniquely positioned and built for this work by improving lives through direct service, collaboration, volunteerism and advocacy. Its role as a leader in the local non-profit community inspired donors to generously support its annual funding-raising campaign for 2021 that raised a record total of $3.476 million, the most money ever raised in a year in the 102 year history of the United Way of Youngstown and the Mahoning Valley. It marked the sixth, consecutive year the annual campaign exceeded $3 million.
      Chris Sammartino serves on United Way’s Board of Directors and chairs the Marketing Committee. He played a significant role in the agency’s Centennial Campaign by helping plan the 100th Anniversary Gala. His wife, Lisa, is a member of Women United, that focuses on the children impacted by United Way initiatives. After a year of unprecedented challenges, Chris and Lisa stepped into the role of 2021 campaign co-chairs because they believe in the United Way’s mission and the community.
      “We both have seen firsthand the amazing work the United Way does in the community. We serve as Report Card Mentors, we volunteer for the Saturday of Caring, and we help with the Christmas Gift Drive for the Success After 6 programs every year,” said Chris and Lisa. “We were extremely honored to take on the role of co-chairs for the campaign. The community needs to know about the excellent work the United Way does for our neighbors in need. We want to bring that message to everyone and knew we could do it in this role.”
      “We may never be able to fully express our gratitude to all our donors, but we begin with thank you to all of you who made this possible. This funding will allow us two years into the pandemic to continue to stabilize the individuals and homes most impacted,” said Bob Hannon, president of the United Way of Youngstown and the Mahoning Valley. “We are feeding hungry children and families, providing basic needs, helping nonprofit partners withstand drops in funding, and continue the impactful work that we were doing before we faced the Covid pandemic.”
      United Way will invest the money raised during the 2021 Rise United Campaign directly back into the Mahoning Valley. When the pandemic hit in 2020, the world changed but United Way’s mission remained the same.
      “We created new initiatives such as Satur-Day of Caring that delivers food directly to the homes of seniors, shut-ins, and families who cannot and should not be out during the pandemic,” Hannon said.
      Satur-Day of Caring began with 100 households and has quadrupled over the past 18 months thanks to the generosity of the Muransky family who started this initiative. In addition, Mahoning County Commissioners David Ditzler, Anthony Traficante and Carol Rimedio-Righetti gave American Recovery Funds back into the community.
      “These additional funds are critical as we face the rising cost of food and personal items that we take to more than 400 homes each month,” Hannon said.
      The Satur-Day of Caring initiative led to a dramatic increase in United Way’s volunteer base. Every third Saturday, 150 volunteers help pack food bags and deliver them to those in need. United Way was able to engage more than 500 new volunteers through 2020 and 2021, and we will continue to grow that number in 2022; especially through Early Education Initiatives.
      While students prepared to return to in-person learning for the 2021-2022 school year, United Way began transitioning its educational wraparound services for any changes within the partner districts caused by the pandemic. The Success By 6 staff worked tirelessly to welcome students and their families back over the summer months. 588 children across eighteen school districts took part in the Kindergarten Readiness initiative, showing improvement in math, literacy, and social-emotional development.
      Success After 6 staff brought students back for in-person, after-school programming while continuing to offer virtual tutoring opportunities through the Vello initiative. This program offers one-on-one reading sessions for students and tutors through a safe and secure digital setting. Vello has now grown from being in just one school to being in four schools.
      In 2014, United Way launched the Imagination Library in Mahoning County. This initiative promotes the love of reading at the earliest of ages. In 2019, Gov. Mike DeWine launched the Ohio Governor’s Imagination Library expanding the reach of the program. In 2021, over 6,000 children across Mahoning County, birth to age 5, received one free book a month.
      “We continue to work to increase our reach with this program by offering special programming with our partner schools,” Hannon said.
      As United Way-led initiatives continue to grow, so does the need for the services provided by the United Way’s 35 non-profit partner agencies. These agencies continue to receive funding through United Way, many also received additional pandemic relief funding to help maintain and provide services for the most vulnerable in the community. The Board’s Impact Committee is currently reviewing applications from non-profits across Mahoning County for 2022-2024.
  BHS Class Of 1972 Looking For Classmates For 50th Reunion  
  February 24, 2022 Edition  
     The Boardman High School Class of 1972 will hold their 50th anniversary reunion Sept. 1 and 2 at Waypoint Conference Center in Canfield. Classmates and guests are invited to both evening events. A golfing event is also being planned. Organizers of the reunion are looking for the following classmates---Elizabeth Allason, Luzette Anderson, Deborah Ankeny, Jennie Bateson, Deborah Brownlee, Theresa Cassidy, Mary Lou Cellio, Cheryl Devore, Thea Dravis, Debra Elms, Cinda Gillam, Wanda Granitto, John Grant, Diane Hasler, Daniel Herman, Diana Hilbon, Diane Hrifko, Beverly Hymes, JoEllen Johnston, Victoria Kaczowka (Rencenwicz), David King, Patricia Kranik, Peter Kraynik, Rowena Lebio, Debbie McCutchen (Taylor), Cynthia McNell, Kathy Medcraft, Michael Nathan, Tobi Nelson, Rhonda Parker, Gerald Pettit, Barbara Ragan Terri Sanderson (Brenner), Pamela Sandler, Richard Saulino, Christina Schrader, Janie Terwilliger, Althea Tobias and Linda Whetstone. Contact Reunion Committee Co-Chairs Jay Powell or Greg Krieger at boardmanclassof72@gmail.com
  Local Cemeteries Topic At Mar. 5 Historical Society  
  February 24, 2022 Edition  
     Boardman resident Mark Luke, will present a program on Boardman Cemetery, Forest Lawn Memorial Park Cemetery and Lake Park Cemetery, Saturday, March 5, at 10:00 a.m. at the Boardman Library, 7680 Glenwood Ave, for the Boardman Historical Society. This program begins the society’s annual membership campaign.
      Historic Boardman Cemetery is located on Tanglewood Drive and dates back to 1805, when the founder of Boardman Township, Connecticut Senator Elijah Boardman donated half an acre of land to be used for a cemetery. Prior to this, burials in the township were made on the farm of Adam Simon. The Boardman Cemetery Association was incorporated, under the laws of the State of Ohio in 1917. There are no lots available for purchase. Township Fiscal Officer William D. Leicht is the custodian of Boardman Cemetery.
      Lake Park Cemetery opened in 1914 and is located off of Midlothian Blvd., off the south side of Youngstown, Ohio. It is a traditional place of interment and operated by the Lake Park Cemetery Park Association.
      Forest Lawn Memorial Park, with entrances on Market St. and Glenwood Ave., was founded in 1930 when the Mill Creek Memorial Park Association obtained a state charter to form a nonprofit corporation and operate the park-like cemetery. Firms that developed the nearby Forest Glen Estates also planned the cemetery.
      Luke is a Boardman Kiwanis vice-president and known for his involvement in organizing Boardman Memorial Day parades. He is a deacon of Westminster Presbyterian Church, director of the Boardman Community Foundation and is the secretary of the Boardman Civic Association. He is also a trustee of the Lake Park Cemetery Association, former governing board member of the disbanded Mahoning County American Cancer Society, a volunteer for the Salvation Army, Boys Scouts and United Way, and former member of the Board of Commissioners of Boardman Park.
      The Boardman Historical Society preserves Boardman Township history. Artifacts, photographs and records are archived by the society at the Oswald Detchon House in Boardman Park.
      The Mar. 5 presentation is open to the public, at no charge. A question and answer period will be available, after the 45-minute program. Reservations are required, due to social distancing. For more information, about the program and the society, or to make reservations, contact Dona Hammond, at 330-726-0651.
  Funding For Forest Lawn Stormwater Park Could Be Boosted By FEMA Grant Monies  
  February 10, 2022 Edition  
     BY JOHN A. DARNELL JR.
      associate editor
      Plans for a proposed stormwater park at the site of the now vacant Market St. Elementary School were boosted this week when Boardman Township was informed some $1.2 million in disaster mitigation grant monies could be used for the project, pending final approval from the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA).
      Cost of the project has been estimated to be near $3 million, and if the FEMA grant gains final approval, almost all of the funding for the project could come from grant monies, Township Administrator Jason Loree said this week.
      Already Boardman Township has been notified it will receive $1 million for the project from the Mahoning County Commissioners, as well as an Ohio capital grant of $500,000, and an Ohio H2O grant for $300,000.
      “We have undertaken extensive studies for this project and after we complete asbestos surveys for the school building, if all goes well, we hope to raze the building this summer,” Loree said.
      Not connected to the razing of the school building, but a part of the township’s overall stormwater abatement plans is razing several houses north of Market St. School in an effort to improve water flows in the Cranberry Run watershed during peak water events.
      “Our road superintendent, Marilyn Kenner, has done an excellent job in procuring grants for these demolitions,” Loree said.
      When completed, the Forest Lawn Stormwater Park will be a 14.6-acre green space on the property of the former elementary school that will be designed to improve surface water flows impacting up to 1,400 homes.
      It will include the creation of a passive park where people can gather and walk along a lighted sidewalk, complete with security cameras, as well as the entire site will be re-forested with appropriate plantings.
      Once completed, during heavy rainfalls, the project will be able to hold up to the equivalent of 9-feet of water (an estimated one million gallons) spread over the surface the size of a football field.
  Boardman High School Sweetheart Ball Names King & Queen  
  February 10, 2022 Edition  
Paige Snyder, Luke Bryan
     PAIGE SNYDER, at left, and Luke Ryan, on right, were named queen and king last weekend at Boardman High School’s annual Sweetheart Ball. Members of their court included Patti Jeffrey, Dana Haus, Roderica Patterson, Eden Lesnansky, Carter Cailor, Nathan Hargrove, Guy Young, Brendan Butler and Gavin Fernandez.
  Public Notice  
  February 10, 2022 Edition  
     PUBLIC NOTICE
      Boardman Township, Mahonig County, in conjunction with the Ohio Emergency Management Agency (Ohio EMA), has applied for Hazard Mitigation Assistance (HMA) funding from the Federal Emergency Management Agency for Cranberry Run Flood Plain Mitigation Project. The objective of HMA programs is to fund mitigation measures that reduce the risk of loss of life and property from future hazard events or disasters. Cranberry Run Flood Plain Mitigation Project is for the acquisition and demolition of four structures with in the flood plain of Cranberry Run. Project includes grading of site, removal of foot bridges and weir structures.
      Under the National Environmental Policy Act, EO 11988 and EO 11990, public notice is required of any federal actions that may affect floodplains or wetlands. Under the National Historic Preservation Act, public notice is also required for some projects which have the potential to affect historic properties. All necessary permits and approvals will be obtained prior to construction and completion of the project.
      Public participation is encouraged. Those interested are invited to comment within 30 days by e-mail to fema-r5-environmental@fema.dhs.gov or by mail to:
      Duane Castaldi, Regional Environmental Officer
      FEMA Region V
      536 South Clark Street, 6th Floor
      Chicago, IL 60605
     
  Public Notice  
  February 10, 2022 Edition  
     PUBLIC NOTICE
      Boardman Township, Mahoning County, in conjunction with the Ohio Emergency Management Agency (Ohio EMA), has applied for Hazard Mitigation Assistance (HMA) funding from the Federal Emergency Management Agency for Forest Lawn Stormwater Park. The objective of HMA programs is to fund mitigation measures that reduce the risk of loss of life and property from future hazard events or disasters. The Forest Lawn Stormwater Park Project will daylight a stream with overflow flood plain basins to mitigate flooding and increase water quality for the watershed. This 15-acre passive stormwater park will include public walking paths, trees, and pollinator meadows. The project will include removal of the existing underground stormwater system, site grading, and new plantings.
      Under the National Environmental Policy Act, EO 11988 and EO 11990, public notice is required of any federal actions that may affect floodplains or wetlands. Under the National Historic Preservation Act, public notice is also required for some projects which have the potential to affect historic properties. All necessary permits and approvals will be obtained prior to construction and completion of the project.
      Public participation is encouraged. Those interested are invited to comment within 30 days by e-mail to fema-r5-environmental@fema.dhs.gov or by mail to:
      Duane Castaldi, Regional Environmental Officer
      FEMA Region V
      536 South Clark Street, 6th Floor
      Chicago, IL 60605
  Sales Tax Funds Will Help Boost Township Road Resurfacing  
  February 3, 2022 Edition  
     BY JOHN A. DARNELL JR.
      associate editor
      Boardman Township’s Board of Trustees are hopeful they can expand their annual summer road resurfacing program, bolstered over the next five years with the addition of funding from a quarter per cent county sales tax approved by the electorate last November for the purpose funding Mahoning County and township roadway infrastructure for five years.
      Annually, Boardman Township appropriates some $400,00 to $600,000 for its annual resurfacing program, that covers between 2.5 and 3 miles of roadway, (generally ten to 15 roads).
      Boardman Administrator, Jason Loree, said that county road tax funds could add another $943,000 to the resurfacing program “every year for the next five years.”
      “This funding would generate…$4 million, with [the 14] townships in [Mahoning County] dividing their share among them,” Mahoning County Engineer Pat Ginnetti said on May 6, 2021 at a special Road Safety Infrastructure Plan meeting of the Mahoning County Township Association.
      Ginnetti was asked if the sales tax initiative would provide benefits to townships in outlying areas?
      “With the additional revenue for their road infrastructure funds, townships could obviously implement an increase in local paving projects,” Ginnetti said.
      Of the 14 townships in Mahoning County, Boardman maintains the most miles of roads---144.745 miles.
      Austintown maintains 117.033 miles, and under the plan proposed at the association meeting, will receive $772,368 annually from the quarter per cent sales tax. Poland Township, with 54.54 miles of roads would receive $387,348 a year; while Canfield would receive $280,997 a year.
      The annual disbursement schedule proposed at the association, also provides the following: Beaver (North Lima) $266,962; Springfield, $237.419; Green, $179,281; Goshen, $170,516; Milton, $167,770; Berlin, $132,093; Coitsville, $86,695; Jackson, $82,467; and Ellsworth, $60,961.
      In addition to township-maintained roads in Boardman, Mahoning County maintains 44.40 miles of road, and the state of Ohio maintains 19.71 miles of roads, including Market St. and Rt. 224 that was resurfaced last summer.
  Kindergarten Registration For Boardman Schools 2022-23 Year Set For Thurs., Mar. 10  
  February 3, 2022 Edition  
     The Boardman Local School District will hold its annual kindergarten registration for the 2022-23 school year on Thurs., March 10. Registration will take place in the morning, from 8:30 a.m. until noon. Afternoon and evening hours are also available on Thurs., March 10, from 2:30 p.m. to 6:30 p.m.
      Registration will take place in each of the district’s three elementary schools---Stadium Drive, Robinwood Lane and West Boulevard.Masks are required, and social distancing protocols will be followed.
      Registration packets will be made available at each elementary building (outside of the main doors) beginning March 1.
      Registration for a new student to the Boardman Local Schools requires parents or guardians to be residents in the Boardman Local School District. A child must reach age 5 on or before August 1, 2022 in order to register with the district. Children need not be with parents to be registered.
      Parents/guardians should bring a photo ID as well as the following items:
       •A completed registration form (found online at http://www.boardman.k12.oh.us/ or can be picked up in advance at the enrollment office or at each elementary building)
       •Proof of immunization. (proof of your child’s immunization is a physician’s statement or immunization card with dates entered)
       •The child’s official state birth certificate with a raised seal
       •At least two proofs of residency forms (i.e. homeowner’s tax statement, utility bill, purchase/rental agreement, bank or credit card statement, etc.)
       •Custody papers, if applicable
      Kindergarten at Boardman Local Schools is all day, every day. Parents may call the system’s Enrollment Office at 330-259-7189 with any questions.
  NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING  
  February 3, 2022 Edition  
     The Boardman Township Board of Appeals shall hold a Public Hearing on Tuesday, February 15, 2022 at 7:00 PM, go to https://www.boardmantwp.com/zoning/board-of-zoning-appeals/ for further information for consideration of the following cases:
      APPEAL CASE AC-2022-01
      Kyleigh Haynes on behalf of KODIAK PROPERTIES LLC, property owner, 875 Cook Ave., Boardman, Ohio 44514, requests a variance from the terms of the Boardman Township Zoning Resolution, effective January 1, 2021, Article 12.10 (B) (2) (b) to reduce to 10’ setback from rights-of-way to 0’. The property is further known as LOT 62 40 X 115 THE SUBURBAN HOMESITE CO & LOT 63 40 X 115 THE SUBURBAN HOMESITE CO, Parcel 29-015-0-269.00-0 & 29-015-0-268.00-0. Said property is zoned R-2 Residential, in Boardman Township, Mahoning County, State of Ohio.
      APPEAL CASE AC-2022-02
      Woolpert on behalf of RHINO HOLDINGS BOARDMAN LLC, property owner, 317 Boardman Poland Rd., Boardman, Ohio 44512, requests a variance from the terms of the Boardman Township Zoning Resolution, effective January 1, 2021, Article 4.09 Site Development Standards for Nonresidential Zoning Districts to reduce the side yard setbacks to 0’ to the east for a replat. The property is further known as LOT 1 449.67 X 567.33 IRR TOYS R US - OHIO PLAT NO 1, Parcel 29-042-0-005.00-0. Said property is zoned I-Industrial & GB-General Business, in Boardman Township, Mahoning County, State of Ohio.
      APPEAL CASE AC-2022-03
      Brilliant Signs on behalf of P A L 2 PROPERTIES LLC, property owner, 1247 Boardman Poland Rd., Boardman, Ohio 44512, requests a variance from the terms of the Boardman Township Zoning Resolution, effective January 1, 2021, Article 12.11 Permanent Signs in Nonresidential Zoning Districts (B) (3) & (6) (a) to increase the wall signage allowance. The property is further known as LOT 4 440 X 198 REPL 1 M SCHUMER PL 1, Parcel 30-054-0-014.00-0. Said property is zoned GB-General Business, in Boardman Township, Mahoning County, State of Ohio.
      APPEAL CASE AC-2022-04
      Mike Makes Signs on behalf of Boardman United Methodist Church, property owner, 6825 Market St., Boardman, Ohio 44512, requests a variance from the terms of the Boardman Township Zoning Resolution, effective January 1, 2021, Article 12.11 Permanent Signs in Nonresidential Zoning Districts (C) (7) (a) to reduce the sign setback from the front property line by 3’ to convert an existing sign to digital EMC. The property is further known as LOT 2 SEC 0 70 X 204.62 ROLAND HEIGHTS & LOT 3 SEC 0 70 X 204.11 ROLAND HEIGHTS, Parcel 29-005-0-249.00-0 & 29-005-0-250.00-0. Said property is zoned PI-Public & Institutional, in Boardman Township, Mahoning County, State of Ohio.
      APPEAL CASE AC-2022-05
      Golden Eye Developers on behalf of Michele M Miller Trustee, property owner, 6412 South Ave., Boardman, Ohio 44512, requests a variance from the terms of the Boardman Township Zoning Resolution, effective January 1, 2021, Article 8.03 (B) (3) to eliminate the 25’ riparian setback. The property is further known as LOT 3 214.01 X 1091.60 IRR GEORGE FARM REPLAT 3, Parcel 29-016-0-185.00-0. Said property is currently zoned RB-Regional Business & R-2 Residential, located in Boardman Township, Mahoning County, State of Ohio.
      APPEAL CASE AC-2022-06
      MVC Architecture on behalf of DCZ PROPERTY GROUP LLC, property owner, South Ave., Boardman, Ohio 44512, requests a variance from the terms of the Boardman Township Zoning Resolution, effective January 1, 2021, Article 4.09 Area, Setback, and Other Site Development Standards Table 4.09-1 to reduce the front setback from 50’ to 30’ and the rear setback from 40’ to 20’. The property is further known as LOT 22 100.00 X 195.98 IRR REPLAT OF LOTS 22-24 & 30 IN DUSTMAN CORNERS PLAT & LOT 24 100.00 X 162.16 IRR REPLAT OF LOTS 22-24 & 30 IN DUSTMAN CORNERS PLAT, Parcel 29-013-0-195.00-0 & 29-013-0-196.01-0. Said property is currently zoned R-2 Residential, located in Boardman Township, Mahoning County, State of Ohio.
      Text and maps of the request may be viewed at the Boardman Township Zoning Office, 8299 Market Street, Boardman, Ohio 44512 Monday through Friday, between the hours of 8:00 AM and 4:00 PM, until time of hearing. Please call 330-726-4181 or email requests to tdavignon@boardmantwp.com.
      Atty. John F. Shultz, Chairman
      Boardman Township Board of Appeals
      Tricia D’Avignon, AICP,
      Assistant Director of Zoning and Development
  LEGAL NOTICE  
  February 3, 2022 Edition  
     The Boardman Township Zoning Commission will conduct a Public Hearing on the following amendment to the Boardman Township Zoning Resolution and Township Zoning Map on Tuesday, February 15, 2022 at 5:30 PM. Go to https://www.boardmantwp.com/zoning/zoning-commission/ for further information.
      Following the recommendation of the Zoning Commission, the proposed amendment will be referred to the Board of Trustees for final determination.
      AMENDMENT A-2022-01
      Golden Eye Developers on behalf of Michele M Miller Trustee, property owner, requests a zone change for 6412 South Ave., Boardman, Ohio 44512, from the terms of the Boardman Township Zoning Resolution, effective January 1, 2021, in order to change the property to PUD-Planned Unit Development zoning district. The property is further known as LOT 3 214.01 X 1091.60 IRR GEORGE FARM REPLAT 3, Parcel 29-016-0-185.00-0. Said property is currently zoned RB-Regional Business & R-2 Residential, located in Boardman Township, Mahoning County, State of Ohio.
      To view a hard copy of the texts and maps at the Boardman Township Zoning Office, 8299 Market Street, Boardman, Ohio 44512 Monday through Friday, between the hours of 8:00 AM and 4:00 PM, until time of hearing, please call 330-726-4181 or email requests to tdavignon@boardmantwp.com.
      Peter W. Lymber, Chairman
      Boardman Township Zoning Commission
      Tricia D’Avignon, AICP,
      Assistant Director of Zoning and Development
  Latest Generation 3T MRI Introduced At Southwoods Imaging  
  January 27, 2022 Edition  
     Committed to pairing the best patient experience with the most advanced medical technology available, Southwoods Health in Boardman announces the arrival of the Vantage Galan 3T MRI at Southwoods Imaging, 7623 Market St.
      MRI uses a magnetic field without radiation to produce high-resolution 3D images of the organs and structures inside the body. The amount of information provided by the exam is directly related to the strength of the magnetic field. 3T MRI is the strongest magnet used in medicine today and produces the most detailed and accurate images with the highest degree of resolution. Southwoods Imaging is the only facility in the area with multiple 3T units in one location.
      “For physicians, the capabilities of the Vantage Galan 3T ensures the highest quality images with enhanced anatomical detail – helping lead to more accurate diagnoses. For our patients, this technology improves comfort by delivering faster, quieter exams,” explained Ed Muransky, Southwoods Chief Executive Officer. “Southwoods Imaging was the first to offer 3T MRI in Mahoning County in 2014, and remains the only provider in the county offering this level of technology. This investment underscores Southwoods’ ongoing commitment to providing quality clinical services and an exceptional patient experience.”
      Patient benefits include:
       •Reduced scan times. Scans are reduced by as much as 50% on most patients, and shorter scan times equal more patient comfort.
       •Less noise. Acoustic noise is reduced up to 99% with Pianissimo® quiet technology – making exams quieter, more comfortable and easier to complete.
       •Larger opening. The system boasts the industry’s widest opening (71cm), delivering a more open feeling and enabling patients of all sizes to feel comfortable.
       •Contrast free scans. Non-contrast MRA sequences minimize risk to patients with sensitivity to contrast while still producing exceptional images.
       •Metal reduction software. The presence of metal-related artifacts (in patients who have metallic orthopaedic implants, for example) can obscure relevant injuries and disease. This new system significantly reduces that issue.
       •Artificial intelligence (AI) applications along with deep learning reconstruction. These applications automate scan planning, offer increased resolution and produce exceptionally detailed images, helping streamline workflow.
      “In researching new systems, we knew we had to stay with the 3T,” said Muransky. “Over the years, we’ve seen such a difference in image quality and so have our doctors. We are always focused on providing the best service, technology and experience to our patients.”
      About Southwoods Health
      Southwoods Health is the region’s fastest growing healthcare system and is locally owned and operated by the Muransky family and area physicians. It includes The Surgical Hospital at Southwoods, an acute care hospital in Boardman, renowned for providing a superior patient experience and consistently ranking at the top of national patient satisfaction and quality of care surveys. The hospital continues to expand its scope of services, that includes inpatient, outpatient and robotic-assisted surgery, as well as endoscopy services. Southwoods Health also provides an expanding array of ancillary health services at locations throughout the Mahoning Valley. These include Southwoods Imaging, offering the most technologically advanced diagnostic imaging services in the area; Southwoods Pain & Spine Center, offering services to treat chronic pain and the region’s most advanced spine surgery program; Southwoods Sleep Centers, diagnosing and treating sleep disorders; Southwoods Physician Services, a multi-specialty physician group; and Southwoods Express Care, providing same day, walk-in non-emergent services.
  School Board Elects Landers As President  
  January 27, 2022 Edition  
     When the Boardman School Board held its annual reorganizational meeting in January, the board also voted unanimously naming John Landers as president and John Fryda as vice-president.
      Following the resignation of Treasurer Terry Armstrong, Ryan Jones was appointed as Interim Treasurer effective January 19, until a full-time treasurer is employed, or June 30, 2022.
      Resignations were accepted from Lara Wanamaker, bus driver; and Laura Wert, high school cafeteria server.
      Natalie Alm-Burgess was granted a one-year limited contract as cafeteria cook at Boardman High School; Dennis Thayer was granted a one-year limited contract as a noontime monitor at West Boulevard Elementary School; Marco Tito was granted a one-year limited contract as a Teacher Aide at Center Intermediate School; and Nicole Blumel was transferred from teacher aide at Center Intermediate School to 220 days General Office Administrative Assistant (Central Office) effective January 10, replacing Melissa D’Altorio.
  Shoplifting Suspect Who Is Suing Boardman Wal-Mart Arrested On Theft Warrant For Stealing From The Store  
  January 27, 2022 Edition  
     Jan. 19: At 10:52 p.m., Ptl. Anthony Ciccotelli was sent to Wal-Mart, 1300 Doral Dr. Police were told a person with whom loss prevention employees at the store were familiar with, may have been wanted on a theft warrant, and additionally, police were told “a new theft offense” happened when merchandise was intentionally not scanned during self check-out.” Officers Thomas Zorzi and Lt. Steve Riwniak and Brian Moss also responded. According to Ptl. Ciccotelli, Aaron MacKenzie Keffer, 34, of 2733 Mount Vernon Ave., Youngstown, Oh., “was observed intentionally skip-scanning two items and not paying for them during the checkout process.” The two items were valued at $6.35, the veteran policeman said. Keffer was arrested on the warrant and also charged with an alleged second theft offense stemming from the skip-scanning observed on the surveillance video. “During the arrest, Keffer was belligerent, told officers they could not touch him, and threatened to sue officer and Wal-Mart over being detained and arrested...Keffer was advised several times that he would be provided a copy of the warrant while being booked,” Ptl. Ciccotelli said.
      The warrant on Keffer is related to a Nov. 28, 2021 theft at Wal-Mart. At that time. loss prevention employee Nicole Mirto told police Keffer spent 24 minutes in the store and “selected frappuccino drink and drank it without paying for it [and] selected two packages of speaker wire and left the store without paying for them.” Mirto told police the incident had been captured on surveillance video.
      Note: In June, 2021, Keffer filed suit against Wal-Mart (noting incorrectly that he lives in “the city of Boardman’) seeking damages after he had been confronted by a man with a knife “around 3:00 a.m.” at Wal-Mart on Dec. 8, 2019. At that time, Keffer told police that he and his girlfriend were entering the store when a man with a toddler in a shopping cart pushed the cart out of the store, at which time his girlfriend noted the baby was cute, and the man pushing the shopping cart brandished a knife, telling the girlfriend, “If I were you, I’d shut my mouth and keep walking.” Six months later, Keffer filed suit against Wal-Mart, seeking damages in excess of $15,000, “exclusive of attorney fees.” The suit claims Wal-Mart “breached a duty of care by failing to keep the premises reasonably safe and free from Hazardous conditions.” The suit claims because of the Dec. 8, 2019 incident, Keffer “suffered pain and suffering, disability, inconvenience, mental anguish, loss of capacity for the enjoyment of life and/or permanent aggravation of a previously existing condition.” The suit further alleges “Wal-Mart’s decisions to take no action, to put pecuniary gain over the safety and well-being of its business invitees is so extreme and outrageous as to go beyond all possible bonds of decency and was such that it can be considered as utterly intolerable in a civilized community.” Wal-Mart answered, denying Keffer’s assertions, noting that Keffer has failed to state a claim upon which relief can be granted and his claims are barred by applicable statute of limitations. There has been no ruling on the suit and the case remains undisposed.
  Appeals Court Affirms Guilty Verdict On Man Charged With Rapes Of 10-Year-Old Girl  
  January 20, 2022 Edition  
     BY JOHN A. DARNELL JR.
      associate editor
      The Seventh District Court of Appeals has affirmed a guilty verdict on 12 counts of rape and one count of gross sexual imposition leveled against a Cleveland man who had been charged and convicted of repeatedly raping a 10-year-old girl who lived in an apartment building at 4890 Brookwood Rd. during a one-year period, between 2015 and 2016.
      Jeffrey Palmer, 34, was found guilty on the charges on Oct. 3, 2019 in the Mahoning County Common Pleas Court of Judge Maureen Sweeney.
      He was given a sentence of 40 years to life in jail on the charges.
      Judge Sweeney ruled the sentence was “necessary to protect the public from future crimes…and the danger Palmer poses to the public.”
      In Apr. 2018, the girl’s 31-year-old mother told police her daughter had been raped multiple times by her ex-boyfriend, whom she first met on-line.
      According to police, the victim’s mother said that Palmer lived with her for about a year and when she went to work, Palmer would watch the child.
      The girl told Det. Michael Sweeney “almost immediately” after her mother left her in Palmer’s custody, he began to rape her.
      “The child advised that Palmer would rape her almost daily and that he would rape her multiple times a day,” Det. Sweeney said, adding he was told that “Palmer would follow her into her bedroom after she took a shower and ‘would take my clothes off and put me on the bed.’”
      The girl detailed a variety of assaults to police; and also said she had been hesitant to tell anyone about the rapes because Palmer threatened to kill her mother if she told anyone.
      According to Assistant Mahoning County Prosecutor Ralph Rivera, the girl stated if she screamed during acts of sexual abuse, Palmer “would like put a blanket inside her mouth,” adding Palmer told her “If I could do this with you, I would never touch your mom again.”
      When her mother first learned of the allegations, she immediately took her daughter to Akron Childrens Hospital the same day.
      Since his conviction, Palmer has been incarcerated in Marion, Oh.
      An appeal of his convictions on a variety of assignments of error was filed before the Seventh District Court by Atty. John Juhasz, of West Blvd., Boardman, who was appointed at public cost. Among the claims of error, Juhasz said that Palmer had been denied due process, and his court-appointed counsel in Judge Sweeney’s court was “ineffective.” In each instance, the Seventh District Court said Juhasz’s assertions were meritless.
      The record of the court includes a document entitled “Introduction and Summary,” signed by Palmer, who says he was involved “in the legal equivalent of a greased pig contest,” additionally claiming he had erectile dysfunction and libido issues, perhaps documented by an extended stay at St. Vincent Hospital in Cleveland.
      Palmer also claimed in the document it was “evident” he stayed at the Brookwood apartment for only 60 days.
      Palmer claimed his trial counsel allowed him “to be depicted as a vile criminal, a sexual deviant even with a terrible disposition and respect for nothing or no one.”
      Palmer concluded the trial “was a true and literal public lynching in every sense where no real justice can be seen.”
      The young girl testified at his trial, and Palmer opined “the testimony constantly changed…then that means the evidence constantly changed, and no one can ever meaningfully defend themselves against ever changing evidence.”
      In its decision, the Seventh District Court, in an opinion authored by Judge Gene Donofrio, ruled there was adequate evidence of sexual conduct that was presented to sustain the rape charges. Judges Cheryl Waite and Carol Robb concurred.
      In claiming ineffectiveness of his trial lawyer, The Seventh District Court said that Palmer asserted his counsel “admitted he was unprepared for trail.”
      “The test for determining whether counsel was ineffective is: 1) Whether counsel’s performance was deficient; and 2) If so, whether the deficiency resulted in prejudice,” The Seventh District Court said, noting “In order to meet the prejudice prong, [Palmer and his counsel. Atty. Juhasz]…must show a reasonable probability that, but for (trial) counsel’s errors, the result of the proceeding would have been different.”
      The claims of ineffective counsel “lacks merit,” the Seventh District Court said.
      In other assertion of error, Atty. Juhasz took issue with testimony given in Judge Sweeney’s Court by a nurse practitioner from Akron Childrens Hospital, claiming their testimony “improperly bolstered (the young girl’s) testimony and its truthfulness.”
      “The [nurse practitioner] is an expert in this case, due to her specialized knowledge, training, education and experience in child abuse pediatrics,” The Seventh District Court said.
      It added, “We…find no error by the trail court in admitting [the nurse practitioner’s] testimony that the [victim’s] behavior in this case was consistent with behaviors she had observed in other sexually abused children….
      “She explained that children sometimes disclose only increments of the abuse because they are embarrassed or worried about how adults around them will respond.”
      Atty Juhasz also took issue with Atty. Rivera, as well as Boardman Police Sgt. Charles Hillman Jr., who referred to the child as a ‘victim.’
      “While the prosecution referred to the [child] as a victim once…and Sgt. Hillman referred to her in this capacity four times, it does not rise to the level of prejudice,” the Seventh District Court said.
  In 17-Degree Weather, Boardman HS Names New Grid Coach  
  Daniel J. Dota III Will Replace Seth Antram:   January 20, 2022 Edition  
     Boardman Local School’s Board of Education, by unanimous vote, hired Daniel J. Dota III, 50, of 124 Sugarcane Dr., as the system’s new head football coach, during a ‘meeting’ held in 17-degree temperatures on the 50 yard line at Spartan Stadium.
      Dota replaces Seth Anthram, who quit the job last month, to return to the Youngstown City Schools where he will be Chaney High School head football coach and also serve as dean of boys in the city school system.
      Antram served as Spartan head coach for just one season, as Boardman posted a 4-5 mark, and throughout the season was hit with costly unsportsmanlike penalties.
      “I’m really excited about being a head coach again,” said Dota, who had previous head coaching stops at West Branch for eight years and Warren G. Harding for four before serving in assistant roles the last few years. “Sometimes, when you’re doing something, you don’t realize how much you’re going to miss it. I think after about a year and a half, I got really itchy. … So I’m excited to have the opportunity, especially at a place like this with all the support.”
      More than 30 persons applied for the Boardman post.
      Dota said his first order of business, though, is to set program expectations.
      “It’s a great tradition here. I’m going to teach my vision and where I see us going — these are the expectations of our program, and these are the expectations we’ll live by,” he said. “Whether that’s in school, on the field, in the weight room or in the community, this is how we’ll act, and hopefully we demonstrate greatness in all those things we do.”
      Dota has previous head coaching experience, posting a record of 38-42 at West Branch, and was also the head coach at Warren Harding where he won 23 games in four years with the Raiders.
      Dota, a Liberty High School product (where he was a quarterback) and Youngstown State University graduate, earned a Bachelor of Science in Education and a Master’s Degree in Education.
      He began his coaching career as a volunteer assistant at his alma mater in 1991.
      Liberty hired him to be on staff the following season and he left after 1994 to become an assistant at Girard. Following a two-year stint, Dota was hired as a Harding assistant by former head coach Gary Barber in 1997.
      Dota spent seven years at Harding, including the final four (2000-03) as defensive coordinator under Thom McDaniels, Barber’s successor.
      Dota left Harding to become defensive coordinator and strength coach at Struthers in 2004. After two years, he returned to Harding and spent one more year as McDaniels’ defensive coordinator and secondary coach.
      In 2010, as head coach at Harding, Dota was named Trumbull County Coach of the Year.
      He comes to Boardman High School after serving two seasons as defensive coordinator for the Girard High School football program, and in 2019 spent a year as an assistant coach at Columbiana High School.
      In a resume provided to The Boardman News by the Boardman HS Athletic Department, Dota identified his objective as “to lead positive change in education for the benefit of all students.”
  Trustees Hire Firm To Study Roadways  
  January 13, 2022 Edition  
     Meeting on Monday night, Boardman Trustees hired a private company to conduct a survey of township roads.
      Tetra Tech, of Cincinnati, Oh., was hired at a cost not to exceed $15,400 to provide engineering services for pavement evaluation for township roads.
      “With this new rating system, we will be able to determine which roads are the worst,” newly-tabbed Chairman of the Boardman of Trustees, Larry Moliterno said.
      Trustee Brad Calhoun noted the road survey should be completed sometime in May.
      One person attended the meeting, Tom Guerrieri, who complained Ivy Hill Dr. had not been resurfaced in a quarter century.
      Guerrieri said residents of Ivy Hill Dr., including himself, pay upwards of $10,000 a year in property taxes and “have third world roads.”
      “We have to take care of all the roads in Boardman, not just places where residents pay high taxes,” Moliterno responded, adding that Guerrieri provided Trustees “a lot of good information, and we will do the study and go from there.”
      Township Road Superintendent, Marilyn Kenner, noted there are some 140-plus miles of roadway in Boardman and once the survey is completed, “all roads will have a permanent rating. The survey will determine which roads are worst.”
      Kenner also told Trustees the roof at the township Road Department building needs replaced and the cost could approach $715,000.
      In another matter, Trustees approved a payment of $75,000 to the Mahoning County Prosecutor’s Office to serve as the township’s law director for 2022.
  Moorman, Vondran Will Represent Boardman At Annual Spelling Bee  
  January 13, 2022 Edition  
Evan Moorman - Lily Vondran
     SPELLING CHAMPS---The Boardman Center Intermediate Spelling Bee was held on Friday, January 7 with nearly 80 students in grades four, five and six, participating in the event. The contestants qualified for the annual spelling bee based on their performance on a written spelling test of 30 challenging words. Champion was sixth grader Evan Moorman, at left. The BCIS Bee was decided in round eight with Moorman correctly spelling his given word in that round and the championship word “contessa.” Fifth grader Mahib Ahmad was runner up. Glenwood Junior High also recently hosted a school-wide spelling bee and eighth grader Lily Vondran, at right, was the champion. Eighth grader Lilly Andrei was runner up. Vondran and Moorman will represent Boardman Local Schools at the Regional Bee on Sat., March 12 at Stambaugh Auditorium.
  LEGAL NOTICE  
  January 13, 2022 Edition  
     LEGAL NOTICE
      The Boardman Township Trustees will conduct a Public Hearing on the following amendment to the Boardman Township Zoning Map on Monday, January 24, 2022 at 4:30 PM. Following the recommendation of the Zoning Commission, the proposed amendment is being referred to the Board of Trustees for final determination.
      AMENDMENT A-2021-04
      Golden Eye Developers on behalf of Michelle M Miller Trustee, property owner, requests a zone change for 6412 South Ave., Boardman, Ohio 44512, from the terms of the Boardman Township Zoning Resolution, effective January 1, 2021, in order to change the property to PUD-Planned Unit Development zoning district. The property is further known as LOT 3 214.01 X 1091.60 IRR GEORGE FARM REPLAT 3, Parcel 29-016-0-185.00-0. Said property is currently zoned RB-Regional Business & R-2 Residential, located in Boardman Township, Mahoning County, State of Ohio.
      To view a hard copy of the texts and maps at the Boardman Township Zoning Office, 8299 Market Street, Boardman, Ohio 44512 Monday through Friday, between the hours of 8:00 AM and 4:00 PM, until time of hearing, please call 330-726-4181 or email requests to tdavignon@boardmantwp.com.
      Larry Moliterno, Chairman
      Boardman Township Trustees
      Tricia D’Avignon, AICP,
      Assistant Director of Zoning and Development
     
  A Lawsuit, And Treasurer And Head Football Coach Resignations  
  NOT ON THE SCHOOL BOARD AGENDA:   December 30, 2021 Edition  
     BY JOHN A. DARNELL JR.
      associate editor
      The Boardman Local School Board met on Mon., Dec. 20. Not on the agenda given to the public were three items---a lawsuit filed against a Washington, D.C. consulting firm, the resignation of the system’s treasurer, and the resignation of the high school’s head football coach.
      The lawsuit, filed Dec. 15 in the U.S. District Court/Northern District of Ohio, says a management consulting firm, McKinsey & Co., played a role in advising pharmaceutical companies of methods to market addictive drugs---and that led to an increase in the number of infants born with opioid withdrawal symptoms. The suit alleges students born to drug-addicted mothers may have developmental ‘delays,’ and that has caused increases in the costs of special education services provided to students.
      Atty. Marc Getz, who is representing Boardman Local Schools, said the lawsuit, “is a class action complaint filed on behalf of all independent public school districts in Ohio and alleges that McKinsey played a central role in the expansion of the opioid crisis by advising multiple opioid manufacturers in the sale and distribution of opioids.”
      McKinsey is a global management consulting firm, with over 30,000 employees and operations in more than 65 countries.
      The Boardman Local School District’s Treasurer, Terry Armstrong, has announced that he will take the same post with the Newton Falls School District, effective Jan. 24, 2022. Armstrong was hired as Boardman treasurer in late Aug., 2020.
      And, after serving as head football coach for only a year, Seth Antram will leave the post to return from where he came, Chaney High School, to lead that football program, and as well, become Dean of Boys for the Youngstown City Schools. Antram took over the reigns of a Spartan grid program whose 2022 freshman class posted an unbeaten season and as seniors, finished just 4-5.
      During their regular meeting on Dec. 20, the school board unanimously approved an appropriations resolution report for Fiscal Year 2022. Total appropriations listed in the report are $66.167 million.
      That includes a general fund of $46.628 million, as well as $6.853 million for employee benefits/self insurance, $3.255 in funding from the Elementary and Secondary School Emergency Relief Funds (Covid-related funding); $2.182 million for permanent improvements; $1.538 million for food service; $1.152 million in certain grant monies; $1.214 million in Title I disadvantaged children funds.
      In his November financial report, outgoing Treasurer Armstrong noted a significant change in the system’s spending plan.
      “As the year progresses we will see a change...due to the implementation of the Fair School Funding Plan. Funding that was received based on average daily membership included foundation revenue for students who attended non-public, charter schools and open enrollment.
      “A major change will be that this will no longer show up in a district’s average daily membership, thus per pupil funding will not be shown as revenue as we will get funded (only) for students attending Boardman Local Schools.
      “This will be a net gain for Boardman as this will be off-set by lower expenditures for those students leaving the district that under the old school funding system resulted in costs that exceeded what we received for each student,” Armstrong said.
      The Lawsuit
      Boardman Local School System’s suit against McKinsey & Co. is just one of many filed against the company across the United State and Canada.
      For example, in early December, 2021, In a coordinated legal strategy, seven counties in east Tennessee and five counties plus one city in west Tennessee have filed separate lawsuits against consulting firm McKinsey & Co. over its involvement in the opioid crisis.
      A third federal lawsuit is expected shortly from a group of counties in middle Tennessee, according to Greeneville, Tenn. attorney Crystal Jessee, who is part of a team of attorneys representing Tennessee counties filing suit.
      The Tennessee counties are seeking an unspecific amount in damages from the giant global management consulting firm over its role as an advisor to Purdue Pharma, the maker of the opioid drug, oxycontin, whose use and abuse continues to exact a devastating toll on families and communities in Tennessee, and across the nation.
      The lawsuits were filed 10 months after Tennessee Attorney General Herbert Slatery III announced the state of Tennessee had joined a multi-state settlement with McKinsey, involving 47 states, the District of Columbia and five U.S. territories for $573 million. Tennessee’s share of the settlement is $15.1 million.
      In Oct., 2021 a class action lawsuit was filed in Toronto, Canada by Sotos Class Actions and Goldblatt Partners LLP against McKinsey for its role in fuelling the opioid epidemic in Canada
      The representative of the class, Jordan Francis Charlie, a resident of northern Ontario, was first prescribed oxycontin in 2007 due to a back injury sustained while working in forestry. Mr. Charlie soon developed a devastating addiction to opioids, resulting in the loss of his job and the custody of his child.
      “Mr. Charlie’s tragic experience with highly addictive, ineffective, and unsafe prescription opioids is typical of thousands of Canadians,” the lawsuit says.
      Canada is the world’s second largest consumer of opioids, second only to the United States. In Canada, prescription use of opioids increased by 203% between 2000 and 2010, while sales of oxycontin soared during the same period. According to the Government of Canada, from January 2016 to December 2020, there were 21,174 apparent opioid-related deaths across Canada and 24,671 hospitalizations for opioid-related overdoses.
      In Dec. 2021, Virginia’s Opioid Abatement Authority generated it’s first funds from a lawsuit with McKinsey. Money from a settlement with the company will go toward mitigating the effects of the opioid crisis throughout the Commonwealth.
      The Abatement Authority was born out of legislation put forward by Virginia Attorney General Mark Herring. It aims to support opioid abuse prevention, treatment, and recovery programs.
      According to a press release from Herring’s office, the settlement is worth more than $11.3 million. Herring said that McKinsey & Co. played a role in “turbocharging the opioid crisis.”
      “No dollar amount will ever bring back the Virginians that we have lost to opioids or make their families whole again, but we can fund crucial prevention, treatment and recovery programs to truly help those who are suffering,” said Herring in a press release.
      In June, 2021, New York City filed a lawsuit against McKinsey, accusing the consulting firm of being a mastermind of the opioid epidemic.
      The lawsuit against McKinsey was filed by the city and more than 20 state counties in Suffolk County’s state Supreme Court, with plaintiffs claiming “the worst man-made epidemic in history” was due in part to the company’s “major role in crafting and implementing” deceptive marketing strategies to sell addictive prescription pills.
      In February, 2021, McKinsey agreed to pay nearly $600 million to most U.S. states, including New York, to settle allegations that it fueled the crisis by helping Perdue Pharma sell oxycontin. Months earlier, Perdue pleaded guilty to criminal charges in connection with the national epidemic.
      McKinsey claims its prior settlement shelters it from the lawsuit filed by the city and other local governments.
      The December School Board Meeting
      The school board accepted the following certificated staff resignations:
       •Michelle Minteer, Robinwood Lane Elementary School, intervention specialist, resignation effective December 15.
       •Sue Purfey, Boardman High School, intervention specialist, retirement effective March 1, 2022.
      Leaves of absence were approved for:
       •Cara Henley, Center Intermediate School sixth grade language arts teacher, first-year unpaid parental leave of absence from December 9 through February 28, 2022.
       •Alicia Orr, Center Intermediate School sixth-grade social studies teacher, second-year unpaid parental leave of absence from August 16 through June 30, 2022.
       •Becky Amadio, an unpaid leave of absence per the OAPSE contract Article XI Section E for Ms. Amadio from December 13 through January 7, 2022.
      A member of the system’s classified staff, Melissa D’Altorio, was transferred from 220 days general office to a 250 days as Principal’s Administrative Assistant. D’Altorio replaces Jean Rider.
      Kelly Black was granted a one-year limited contract as 2.5-hour cafeteria server at Boardman High School, replacing Amy Theodore.
      Maria Quintalti was granted a one-year limited contract as a half contract bus aide for the 2021-2022 school year effective November 17. Quintalti replaces Jerry Rosine.
      On-Staff supplemental contracts were granted to:
       •Jeana Carpenter, High School, Math 24; Glenwood Junior High School, Math Counts, and Glenwood Junior High School, Math Contest;
       •Eric Diefenderfer, Glenwood Junior High School, Robotics Team (grade 7 and 8 Maroon);
       •Lindsay Donadio - Center Intermediate School, Math 24 (grades 4,5,6);
       •Kristen Ebie, Glenwood Junior High School, Math 24; Glenwood Junior High School, Math Counts, and Glenwood Junior High School, Math Contest.
       •Tim Harker - Glenwood Junior High School, Robotics Team (grades 7 and 8 White); and
       •Maria Russo, Center Intermediate School, Math 24 (grades 4,5,6).
      Off Staff Supplemental contracts were granted to:
       •Scott Burns - High School Orchestra Assistant, work not to exceed his average of 29.5 hours/week;
       •John Gabriel - High School,Stage Crew Advisor;
       •Charles Hoover, High School Stage Crew Advisor; and
       •Nick Opritza - High School Dramatics Director.
       •Alannah Hetzel was approved as an off-staff volunteer high school Speech and Debate assistant coach
      Longevity Pay was approved for April Sanfilippo after the completion of 19 years of continuous service with the Boardman Local School District.
      Carmela Schuster was approved for long-term substitute wages after having substituted for 60 consecutive days in the same position. Schuster has been a social studies teacher at Center Intermediate School.
      Joseph Hollabaugh was granted a $1,250 stipend for additional hours of taping and editing of school productions.
      Kristin Huzyak was approved for a quarterly stipend as $1,250 as Covid coordinator at Center Intermediate School for the second, third, and fourth grading periods.
      Three persons were approved for $30 students each for time spent working at a choral music concert---ticket sellers Cheryl Dutko, Jody Marlin and Lori Neiman.
      Stipends were approved for time spent working on the production of Guys and Dolls for the following:
       •Bill Amendol, orchestra director, $1650; Cheryl Dutko, ticket seller, $112; Lori Neiman, ticket seller, $112.50; Anne Sopher, assistant costumer, $500; and Alyssa Titi, pianist, $800.
      The school board approved stipends for time spent coaching fall sports to Paul Butto, football, $1,500; Jesse Curry, football, $3,000; Tommy Fryda, boys soccer, $599; and Steve Stahura, football, $500.
  Surprise--A College Scholarship!  
  December 30, 2021 Edition  
     17-year-old Boardman High School senior Marrwa Kermagi had no idea when she woke up the morning of Dec. 20 that she would be offered a scholarship package that would cover the total cost of college for four years.
      Kermagi, who was recently accepted to the YSU-BaccMed program, was selected from a highly competitive applicant pool for the funding, that covers three to four years of pre-med undergraduate tuition, as well as room and board.
      “It was unexpected and I’m genuinely thankful for my parents, and the school and Boardman administration, and all the teachers who helped me,” said Kermagi.
      A surprise visit from YSU to present the scholarship award letter was arranged---and Marrwa’s parents kept the secret to surprise her.
      “The BaccMed Honors Scholar Program seeks the best and brightest students to become the next generation of family physicians in northeast Ohio,” said Johnny Ware, coordinator in the Honors College, adding “Marrwa was so enthusiastic in her application and we are excited to see what her future holds at YSU.”
      Kermagi is one of the youngest seniors at BHS, just turning 17-years-old in December. She has a 4.0 GPA with and is on track for first in class honors at Boardman.
      “My mom is really my inspiration,” said Kermagi. “She was a pediatrician overseas before our family moved here.”
      Kermagi says she loves all sciences but biology is her favorite. She couldn’t wait to share the news with her mentor, biology teacher Heather Moran.
  LEGAL NOTICE  
  December 30, 2021 Edition  
     The Boardman Township Trustees will conduct a Public Hearing on the following amendment to the Boardman Township Zoning Map on Monday, January 10, 2022 at 4:30 PM. Following the recommendation of the Zoning Commission, the proposed amendment is being referred to the Board of Trustees for final determination.
      AMENDMENT A-2021-03
      Woda-Cooper Companies on behalf of Lawrence & Rose Liguore, property owners, requests a zone change for Andrea Lane., Boardman, Ohio 44512, from the terms of the Boardman Township Zoning Resolution, effective January 1, 2021, in order to change the property to R-3 residential zoning district. The property is further known as LOT 3 130.86 X 500.69 IRR REPLAT OF LOT NOS 2 & 3 L.R. LIQUORE PROFESSIONAL ALLOTMENT, Parcel 29-016-0-183.03-0. Said property is currently zoned RB-Regional Business & R-2 Residential, located in Boardman Township, Mahoning County, State of Ohio.
      AMENDMENT A-2021-04
      Golden Eye Developers on behalf of Michelle M Miller Trustee, property owner, requests a zone change for 6412 South Ave., Boardman, Ohio 44512, from the terms of the Boardman Township Zoning Resolution, effective January 1, 2021, in order to change the property to PUD-Planned Unit Development zoning district. The property is further known as LOT 3 214.01 X 1091.60 IRR GEORGE FARM REPLAT 3, Parcel 29-016-0-185.00-0. Said property is currently zoned RB-Regional Business & R-2 Residential, located in Boardman Township, Mahoning County, State of Ohio.
      To view a hard copy of the texts and maps at the Boardman Township Zoning Office, 8299 Market Street, Boardman, Ohio 44512 Monday through Friday, between the hours of 8:00 AM and 4:00 PM, until time of hearing, please call 330-726-4181 or email requests to tdavignon@boardmantwp.com.
      Brad Calhoun, Chairman
      Boardman Township Trustees
      Tricia D’Avignon, AICP,
      Assistant Director of Zoning and Development
  Emergency Home Repair Program Available To Boardman Residents  
  December 16, 2021 Edition  
      Boardman Township residents are eligible for funding that is available to emergency home repairs through the American Rescue Plan (ARP).
      The Youngstown Neighborhood Development Program (YNDC) offer a Mahoning County home repair program to assist low-income home owners with emergency repairs and more.
      Applicants must be at or below 50% of the area median income, and meet other eligibility requirement. The program is funded by the Mahoning County Commissioners.
      For more information about the program, call the YNDC at 330-480-0423.
  School System Approves Use Of Behavior Technician  
  “The role of the behavior technician is...to produce socially significant behavior change with one or more students”:   December 9, 2021 Edition  
     Meeting in November, the Boardman Board of Education unanimously approved an agreement with Community Behavior Counsel to utilize the services of a ‘behavior technician’ in order to achieve ‘behavior stabilization’ with students in need of such services. Below is a copy of the Memorandum of Understanding provided by
      Community Behavior Counseling in regards to the role of a behavior technician.
      Memorandum of Understanding
      Community Behavior Consulting is excited to place a behavior technician in your school. The role of the behavior technician is to follow the plan outlined by the BCBA to produce socially significant behavior change with one or more of your students. This service is inherently temporary, as the goal is to achieve behavior stabilization so that the student(s) no longer needs the behavior intervention. Because this is a contracted position in your district, Community Behavior Consulting has the following policies:
       ● The behavior technician must work with the student(s) in which they are assigned. Because it is required to have a plan in place for behavior intervention, the behavior technician cannot observe, assess, or provide substitute coverage for other students or teachers without prior approval with the BCBA.
       ● Behavior intervention services must be focused on following the plan outlined by the BCBA. The behavior technician cannot be responsible for essential duties of the classroom. This may include arrival and dismissal of students, content area teaching, lunch coverage, toileting duties, providing accommodations or modification as outlined on the IEP, etc.
       ● The behavior technician is cleared to work with students and may work with one to three students alone. However, the behavior technician cannot be responsible for the classroom instruction nor be left alone with the whole class. Due to the nature of ABA certifications, there must be an ODE licensed responsible district staff member leading the classroom in addition to the behavior technician.
       ● Until properly certified, the behavior technician cannot participate in hands-on crisis intervention. Community Behavior Consulting offers this training,but may not have provided this training before placement in your school in order to expedite the placement. Therefore, there must be at least a district staff member certified in crisis intervention in the classroom with the behavior technician.
       ● The BCBA is the direct supervisor of the behavior technician. Any concerns or comments about the behavior technician should be directed to the BCBA immediately. Additionally, the behavior technician should immediately report any concerns to the BCBA.
       ● All communication with parents, administrators, and other service providers should go through the classroom teacher. The behavior technician should not be communicating questions or concerns to anyone but the classroom teacher or the BCBA. This is to ensure that communication is streamlined and focused on the effectiveness of the behavior intervention. Behavior technicians will be instructed not to give their phone number to parents.
       ● The behavior technician will be present at school for 7.5 hours unless otherwise approved. The behavior technician will receive a 30 minute lunch or break in the middle of the day at a time mutually agreed upon with the classroom teacher. This lunch or break is to occur without students.
       ● The behavior technician is responsible for documentation as required by the Behavior Analysis Certification Board (BACB). This documentation should be on approved data sheets or forms as determined by the BCBA. The behavior technician will be instructed not to take anecdotal notes. School incident reports may be completed by Community Behavior Consulting. A copy of the incident report should be emailed to the BCBA for Community Behavior Consulting record.
       ● Because of the documentation requirements, the behavior technician may need to spend a reasonable amount of time, not exceeding 5% of the session or day, to complete their notes. The documentation can be done in the moment or at a designated time in the day.
       ● Community Behavior Consulting is a very small business. As such, substitute staff is not guaranteed. When absences are planned, Community Behavior Consulting will make all efforts to cover for that day. Behavior technicians must maintain 95% attendance according to Community Behavior Consulting policies. Absences below that over two consecutive months will be addressed.
       ● There may be times, while infrequent, when behavior technicians cannot be present in order to complete mandatory training for Community Behavior Consulting. The district will be given ample notice. At this time, substitute staff is not possible.
       ● The behavior technician will be required to follow HIPPA guidelines to maintain confidentiality. The behavior technician will be instructed to not share any student information with anyone, including other district staff members, that are not on the student’s Individualized Educaional Plan (IEP) team.
       ● The behavior technician is required to maintain professional boundaries with school staff. This is to prevent misinterpretations of information pertaining to the duties of the behavior technician or the student(s).
       ● The behavior technician must follow Community Behavior Consulting policies. If school district policy and Community Behavior Consulting policies conflict, the BCBA will provide a resolution via written email or plan.
       ● The school district agrees not to solicit Community Behavior Consulting staff for district positions. If a district position opens and meets the professional desires of a Community Behavior Consulting staff member, they should approach their supervisor.
      Jennifer Gonda, Director
      Community Behavior Consulting
     
  SANTA AND MRS. CLAUS ARRIVED AT BOARDMAN PARK  
  December 9, 2021 Edition  
     photo/John A. Darnell jr.
       SANTA AND MRS. CLAUS ARRIVED AT BOARDMAN PARK on Sun., Dec. 5 where the annual Community Christmas was observed. Inside Olde St. James Church at the park, the Boardman Singers, directed by Linda Smrek, and the Boardman High School Wind Ensemble, directed by Tim Tuite, provided holiday music for all to enjoy. After their appearance at Boardman Park, Mr. and Mrs. Claus returned to New Castle, Pa. where they are known as Mr. and Mrs. Jim List.
  Police Sent To Wal-Mart 27 Times In 16-Days  
  December 2, 2021 Edition  
     BY JOHN A. DARNELL JR.
      associate editor
      To date, the Boardman Police Department has answered more than 260 calls of reported thefts at Wal-Mart, 1300 Doral Dr. Since Jan. 1, 2021, police have been called to the store 538 times.During a 16 day period in November alone, police were at the store no less than 20 times. Below is a listing of calls on which police were sent to the store between Nov. 9 and Nov. 27. During that span, police were sent to the
      store 27 times:
      Nov. 9: At 10:20 p.m., Nathan Wright, 27, of 929.5 North Market St., Lisbon, Oh., was placed under arrest and searched. Ptl. Brian Moss said a glass pipe was found in a jacket pocket, and a ‘tin’ that contained a cloudy, rock-type substance was found in another pocket. “Knight immediately stated that the rock was bath salts and he uses the glass pipe to smoke the salts,” Officer Moss said, adding another pocket contained a digital scale. Police recovered $69.59 worth of suspected stolen merchandise, including batteries and a hoody. According to Officer Moss, Knight admitted lying about his name and using his brother’s name because he was wanted on warrants. Knight was charged with obstruction, theft, possession of drug paraphernalia and possession of drugs.
      Nov. 13: At 2:17 p.m., Ptl. Angelo Pasquale went to Wal-Mart on a call of a theft. Police were told a man wearing a New York baseball hat ‘selected’ about $300 worth of merchandise, including a Hoover carpet cleaner, tools and engine oil, then left the store without paying and entered a green Buick. A second man ‘selected’ a $426.86 television and then left the store without making payment, and got into the same Buick as the first suspect, police said, adding the vehicle fled north on South Ave. toward Youngstown.
      Nov. 13: At 4:35 p.m., two police officers went to Wal-Mart on a theft call, as the store’s loss prevention said a male and female had been detained as suspects. The pair were identified as Xavier Gilford, 33, of 25 Market St., #1003, Youngstown, Oh., and Lashaunda Estella Brown, 35, of 25359 Mt. Vernon Ave., Youngstown. Police were told after the pair ‘selected’ multiple items, they proceeded to a self checkout and they failed to scan $175.64 worth of merchandise. “After skip-scanning the merchandise, the pair loaded the items they failed to pay for into a shopping cart with the items they had already paid for,” Ptl. Angelo Pasquale said. Both suspects were charged with theft.
      Nov. 13: At 6:22 p.m., Ptl. Joseph Lamping was sent to Wal-Mart after a shoplifting suspect, Emma Gabryelle Chamberlain, 22, of 4255 Chester Dr. has been detained by loss prevention. Wal-Mart loss prevention employee Nicole Mirto told police that Chamberlain entered the store, ‘selected’ $205.76 worth of merchandise and “only scanned some of the merchandise, making “no attempt to scan 43 items.” Chamberlain was charged with theft.
      Nov. 14: Two police officers went to Wal-Mart at 11:00 a.m. because the business asked that a criminal trespass warning be issued to David Lawrence Brown Jr., 58, of Youngstown. Police were told that Brown is an ex-employee of Wal-Mart and had a reputation for harassing the store’s employees. “Brown was extremely cooperative and question why Wal-Mart did not give him the trespass warning when his employment was terminated on Mar., 2021. Brown said that he was terminated for harassing fellow employees,” Ptl. Mike Calautti said, adding that Brown acknowledged the trespass warning.
      Nov. 14: At 9:18 p.m., four police officers dealt with a shoplifting call at Wal-Mart. One suspect, identified as Jesse James Riffle, 30, of 603 Clearmont, Youngstown, was located in the parking lot of the nearby Storming Crab restaurant. Police said he fled on foot, then eventually stopped running and was placed into a cruiser. Wal-Mart loss prevention employee Troy Brabant positively identified Riffle as a suspect in the theft of a $2.54 can of spray cleaner, Ptl. Dave Jones said. Police were told that Riffle had entered the store with another man, identified as James Gadd, 34, of 4495 New Rd., Austintown, Oh. Police located Gadd inside the store and arrested him on a felony warrant issued out of Austintown for a violation of a court order. Riffle was charged with theft, obstruction and resisting arrest.
      Nov. 15: At 5:09 a.m., Wal-Mart employee Charles Morrison told police he was “conducting perimeter security checks” when he found a loaded, .40 caliber gun at the rear of the Wal-Mart building. The firearm was turned over to Boardman police.
      Nov. 15: At 10:41 p.m., nine police officer went to Wal-Mart after receiving a call a man attempted to leave the store with unpaid merchandise. Police were told the suspect fled northbound towards Youngstown in a pick-up truck that had a refrigerator in its bed. “The suspect attempted to remove a microwave and two Tasty cookers without paying for them,” Ptl. Brian Moss said, noting the merchandise had been recovered. The pick-up truck with the refrigerator in its bed was located northbound on Southern Blvd. by Ptl. Tony Ciccotelli. The truck was driven by Nicholas Gibson, 31, of 6982 Mistletoe, Youngstown. He was issued a citation for expired registration. Another man in the truck, told police his name was Howard Howell, 53, of Ridgelawn Ave., Youngstown. Police learned his identity was fake. Note: On Nov. 16, at 10:00 a.m., Elijah Junior Taylor, 42, of 346 Mistltoe, had been arrested by U.S. Marshals after Det. Doug Taylor identified Taylor as the man who had used Howell’s identity. Taylor was charged with identification fraud and multiple, other warrants on seven, different incidents. Taylor complained of chest pain and was taken to a hospital. Five hours later he was released and then lodged in the Mahoning County Jail.
      Nov. 18: At 3:01 p.m., Shawntai Marie Beiling, 32, of 1032 East South Range Rd., Springfield, Oh., was charged with theft at Wal-Mart. “Merchandise was retrieved from her jacket sleeves and purse,” Ptl. Mike Manis said. The merchandise included fleece gloves, various electronic items, mini notebooks and key chains valued at $151.54. Loss prevention employee Nicole Mirto said the incident had been captured on a surveillance camera.
      Nov. 18: At 5:22 p.m., Veronica Scott, 35, of 3431 Hudson Ave., Youngstown, Oh., was charged with theft of $184.34 worth of merchandise on Oct. 15 at 10:02 a.m. at Wal-Mart. Loss prevention employee Brittany Young told police that Scott entered the store with an infant and a teenaged boy and ‘selected’ the $184.34 worth of merchandise “and took it to the self-checkout counter where she paid for an 88-cent item.” Young said that Scott then left the store and got into a Pontiac registered to Clarence Spann, of 450 Almyra, Youngstown, Oh.
      Nov. 18: At 7:33 p.m., Wal-Mart loss prevention employee Nicole Mirto said she stopped a shoplifting suspect who attempted to leave the store with $111.01 worth of stolen merchandise. After obtaining the female suspect’s name, the suspect told Mirto “I have a gun in my purse.” Mirto, concerned with her safety, then told the woman to leave the store, Ptl. Nick Rusyn said. Note: Police learned the suspect does have a valid conceal carry permit.
      Nov. 18: At 10:13 p.m., police were told a female entered the store and placed a variety of merchandise into a shopping cart. “She went to the self-checkout where she scanned and paid for some of the items, then also bagged other items she purposely failed to scan,” Wal-Mart loss prevention employee Mirto said, adding the woman then went to a customer service area and attempted to obtain a refund for the items she did not pay for. Mirto said the female, identified as Sharnita Latisha Baker, 36, of 180 East Marion, Youngstown, Oh., was denied a refund (because she did not have identification) and she placed $79.56 worth of merchandise she did not pay for back into her shopping cart and attempted to leave. Mirto said the security cameras captured the incident. Baker was charged with theft.
      Nov. 19: Police went to Wal-Mart at 2:28 p.m. after being told a man and a woman were skip-scanning. “An employee from Wal-Mart approached both and advised them they were not scanning items correctly,” Ptl. Brian Cionni said, adding “Both suspects ignored the employee and continued to skips-can additional items, placing the unpaid items into a shopping cart.” They then left the store, and after being approached by loss prevention were escorted back into the store. Charged with theft were Bryasia Monique Walker, 25, of 1951 Tracy Lane, Youngstown; and Davon Tremayne London, 22, of 920 North Garland, Youngstown, Oh. “One of the items Walker is suspected of stealing was a $24.88 backpack. One of the items London is suspected of stealing was a pack of socks valued at $19.98,” Ptl. Cionni said.
      Nov. 20 at 3:02 p.m., Roger Joe Mercer, 49, of 408 Ridge Ave., New Cumberland, West Virginia, was charged with theft (failing to scan) 20 items of merchandise valued at $381.91 (including $3.27 worth of Red Bull). The merchandise was recovered.
      Nov. 20: At 8:06 p.m. six police officers were sent to Wal-Mart. Police were told a suspect removed tags from merchandise then concealed the goods in a backpack. “The state of Ohio then became the victim of possession of drug paraphernalia and obstruction when the suspect lied about his identity and had a crack pipe in his pocket. It was also discovered that the suspect had an active warrant out of the Ohio Department of Rehab and Correction/Adult Parole Authority,” police said. When confront by police, the suspect said he was Keith Brown. He was correctly identified as Lewis Dandre Brown, 32, of 1764 Market St., Youngstown, Oh. When asked by police if he knew was he was being handcuffed, Brown replied, “shoplifting,” Ptl. Dave Jones said.
      On Nov. 20, at 10:30 p.m., three police officers went to Wal-Mart after a suspect attempted to steal 36 pieces of merchandise valued at $1562.97, including a 63-inch television, a cordless vacuum, a gaming headset and assorted clothing items valued at $1,562.97. When confronted, a male suspect told two Wal-Mart loss prevention officers he was ‘high” and fled on foot, leaving the merchandise behind, and getting into an old truck with no working taillights. “The suspect then drove erratically through the parking lot at an extremely high rate of speed, initially without closing his driver’s side door,” Ptl. Evan Beil said.
      Nov. 21: At 2:30 p.m., Jason Patrick Smith, 34, of 60 Sciota Dr., was charged with theft at Wal-Mart, placing items into a shopping bag without scanning them and then exiting the store.
      Nov. 21: At 4:00 p.m., Gary Phillip Brainard Jr., 52, of 2480 Redgate Lane, Austintown, Oh., charged with theft. Police were told suspected stolen merchandise had been recovered. Police were told Brainard fled Wal-Mart and he was later located across the street at Gabriel’s. Police said Brainard fled on foot through a field and he was apprehended when police caught up with him in a front yard on Bristlewood Dr. Brainard was also charged with obstruction and resisting arrest.
      Nov. 21: At 7:46 p.m., Trinity Rana Edwards, 21, and Lameisha Monay Drayton, 21, both of 2664 Tyrell, Youngstown, Oh., charged with theft at Wal-Mart. Drayton ‘selected’ $104.51 worth of merchandise and Edwards ‘selected’ $155.20 worth of merchandise and failed to scan the items, concealing them underneath items they purchased, loss prevention employee Nicole Mirto said. The stolen items were recovered. Drayton was also found to be wanted on a failure to appear warrant issued by the Ohio State Highway Patrol and she was transferred to their custody.
      Nov. 22: At 3:54 p.m., Benedict Chance Santana, 22, and Kaleigh Patton, 22, both of 2009 Lynn Ave., Poland, Oh. turned themselves into Boardman police on a theft report at Wal-Mart on Nov. 3. On Nov. 3, loss prevention employee Mirto said she watched the pair place items they were not scanned into bags with scanned items. Mirto said the incident was captured on surveillance cameras.
      Nov. 23: At 7:57 p.m., police were advised of a suspected theft at Wal-Mart on Nov. 19 about 4:20 p.m. when a man entered the store, ‘selected’ a $178 power tool set, took the security wrapping off the merchandise, then walked out of the store. The theft was captured when surveillance videos were reviewed.
      Nov. 23: At 7:54 p.m., police made a theft report for an incident on Nov. 19 when police were told a man ‘selected’ three boxes of king crab legs, as well as men’s work pants, a rotisserie chick, men’s underwear (total value of $200) and walked out of the store. Surveillance footage of the incident was given to police as evidence.
      Nov. 24: At 3:50 p.m., two police officers went to Wal-Mart after being advised a female shoplifting suspect left the store’s parking lot in a black Kia bearing Pennsylvania license plates. Loss prevention employee Nicole Mirto said she observed a female concealing merchandise and when she attempted to leave the store, after passing all points of sale, Mirto attempted to stop the suspect, who told the security officer, “I lost my wallet in here, you can have all of this shit,” Ptl. Shannon Chaffee said, adding the suspect left the shopping cart full of unpaid merchandise in the entry way.
      Nov. 25: At 1:15 a.m., police were told a man appeared to be passed-out in a motor vehicle in the parking lot of Wal-Mart. Police located a vehicle with a man named Stuart Hull, 47, of 8303 Glenwood Ave,, inside the vehicle. Asked what was going on, Hull said he had been kicked-out of his girlfriend’s house. He admitted to Ptl. Thomas Zorzi he had been drinking in Austintown and then drove to Wal-Mart. Based upon alcohol indicators, Hull was placed under arrest for lack of physical control.
      Nov. 26: At 4:56 p.m., police were advised a male had taken merchandise and concealed it in a backpack inside Wal-Mart. When the man exited the store, walking passed all points of sale without paying, he was approached by police. A search of the backpack also turned-up several used needles. Raymond Scott Betts, 38, of 1270 South Turner Rd., Austintown, Oh., was charged with theft ($20.98 worth of moonshine, gloves valued at $15.47 and a $25.44 flashlight) and possession of drug paraphernalia. “Betts admitted that he use [the needles] for drug, but he did not currently have any drugs on him,” Ptl. Kevin Stratton said.
      Nov. 26: At 7:53 p.m., Ethan Alexander Hunt, 18, 870 East Auburndale, Youngstown, Oh., charged with theft of ten packs of mini Fireball whiskey valued at $29.94 at Wal-Mart. According to Ptl. Shannon Chaffee, when a loss prevention officer approached Hunt, he said he was “on probation and not going back to jail.” After booking, Hunt was released on a court summons.
      Nov. 27: At 4:14 p.m., Michael Phillips, 64, of 705 Cassius, Yougnstown, Oh. was charged with theft of $187 worth of merchandise, including a $100 air bed, at Wal-Mart. “Police observed Phillips in security cameras concealing merchandise and walking passed all points of sale without paying,” Ptl. Kevin Stratton said. After booking, Phillips was released on a summons.
  75 YEARS ......  
  November 25, 2021 Edition  
     75 years ago, The Boardman News published its first edition out of an office space in a building owned by Dr. Robert Heaver at Market St. and Rt. 224 (now the headquarters of esteemed local defense attorney J. Gerald Ingram and his co-counsels who include his son, Ryan, as well as Frank Cassese, Corey Grimm and ‘of counsel,’ noted civil lawyer Charles Dunlap).
      At that time, 75 years ago, Rt. 224 and Market St., ‘out in Boardman,’ were country, two-lane roads, largely bounded by woods and farms, save for Southern Airways that operated an airport near where West and East Parkside roads are today.
      There were no elementary schools, and the public school system was contained in one single building known today as Center Intermediate School. Spartan athletic teams (football, basketball, track and baseball) were members of the Tri-County League.
      About 13,000 people lived in the township.
      Boardman Park was no more than an idea being discussed among local civic leaders.
      There was no, organized township police department. (The township was served by constables). The Boardman Fire Department was the centerpiece of township government, and zoning codes were still being considered.
      Then along came a man named Edward J. DeBartolo, who in the 1950s lived on Danbury Dr. with his wife, Marie, and his son and daughter, Ed Jr. and Denise.
      Mr. DeBartolo, disgusted with Youngstown politicians, had an idea---he wanted to build a shopping plaza ‘all the way out in Boardman,’ at Rt. 224 and Glenwood Ave. And he did, and the Greater Boardman Plaza became the centerpiece of Boardman Township, featuring two grocery stores (A&P and Century Foods), a women’s apparel store (Livingston’s), a hardware store (Stambaugh Thompson) and a five and dime store (W.T. Grant).
      His concept was an instant success and changed the face of Boardman forever.
      Two decades later, Mr. D built an enclosed shopping mall, Southern Park, at Rt. 224 and Market St.
      With Boardman a retail hub in Mahoning County, and unions driving the steel mills out of business in Youngstown, Boardman became a popular place to live and work, and by the turn of the 21st century, more than 40,000 people and 3,000 businesses called Boardman Township home.
      Mr. DeBartolo’s impact on Boardman Township spurred the implementation of a zoning code in 1948, and the formation of the township’s police department in 1951.
      As Boardman Township grew, so did the public school system. In addition, St. Charles School was formed amidst great debate about the value of a ‘parochial’ school.
      In the late 50s and 1960s, public school board members, like Atty. William Fowler, Dr. Art Nicolette, Don McKay and Clarence R. Smith began to issue warnings about over-reach by state government into the public school systems.
      “We need local control, not state control,” Mr. Smith would say, adding “If the state gets too much control, we will be teaching at state minimum standards, not ‘our standards.’”
      Today, 75 years after The Boardman News was founded, indeed the Ohio Department of Education has so many standards that teachers spend much of their time teaching kids in a manner that is dictated by the state report card, much of which has nothing to do with education.
      Boardman Township’s Police Department has grown to some 60 full-time officers and more are needed in an era when drug overdoses permeate our town---to the point there are now more than a dozen agencies that exist to provide drug rehabilitation programs; and drug dealers often get little more than a slap on the wrist in the court system.
      The Boardman Fire Department operates on standards established by the National Fire Protection Association (more geared to large cities than suburban towns like Boardman).
      The Boardman Zoning Department now has inspectors who daily perform property maintenance inspections---a duty first called for by Trustee Elaine Mancini before the turn of the century, in an effort to maintain the integrity of Boardman Township neighborhoods.
      A half century after it was built, the Southern Park Mall has been remodeled as a destination not only for shopping, but as a social gathering place---a sign the residential development (like so-called luxury condominiums) may soon be considered on that property, and perhaps across the street at Center Intermediate School (as the current school board indicates it would consider further adding to its ‘campus’ at Boardman High School).
      Rt. 224 and Market St. are now four-lane highways where state troopers often intervene in accidents on those roadways.
      Consistent with the Army Corps of Engineers ‘cleaning-up’ Cranberry Run in the late 1930s, surface water issues have been just as consistent since that time, especially in Ridgewood Estates and neighborhoods near Market St. Elementary School. In addition, streams that flow into Mill Creek are often clogged with debris, causing surface water issues near Tippecanoe Rd. and Rt. 224. So actually, the Corps of Engineers compounded drainage issues in Boardman, and we are still dealing with them today.
      Two decades into the 21st century, township government is once again addressing those drainage issues. One of the most unique concepts in the efforts to alleviate surface water issues is the creation of a stormwater park on the property of Market St. Elementary School. (Market St. Elementary School was the first, public elementary school built in Boardman Township in the early 1950s. School officials said it was needed to help handle the local system’s ever-growing student population. Projections ‘back in the day,’ were Boardman’s population was growing so rapidly, more elementary schools would be needed to handle a student population that could reach as many as 10,000 kids. That certainly didn’t prove to be true, and today, after more than a couple of decades of discussion, the school board finally closed down Market St. Elementary School).
      Of note, and in difference to the Boardman Local School System of 70 years ago, according to the Ohio Department of Education, 1,660 students, or 42.3 per cent of students in the Boardman Local School District are economically disadvantaged.
      Good Things
      Just about the time The Boardman News published its first edition, Boardman Park was formed and for more than seven decades it has been a place of peace and fellowship.
      In its early days, Boardman High School played its baseball games at the park, and a skating rink attracted thousands of people every winter.
      Through the years, Olde St. James Church, the oldest Episcopal church building east of the Mississippi River, was moved to the park, spurred by the volunteer efforts of Tom and Miram Masters. The church now graces the entrance to the park on Boardman-Poland Rd.
      Indeed, during the 1960s and 1970, many houses of worship left the city of Youngstown for locations in Boardman Township.
      It was in 1993 the Boardman community came together to build a Kids Town playground at Boardman Park, where thousands of parents take their children every year to play and have fun.
      An outdoor theater was built at Boardman Park in 1996 and now every Fourth of July, thousands gather there for an annual fireworks show, accompanied by selections of patriotic music.
      In 1976, during the bicentennial of the United States, more than 15,000 people came to Boardman Park to celebrate the nation’s 200th birthday, highlighted by shooting an old canon that carried on a tradition begun on America’s centennial when a canon was shot into the air at Boardman Centre to mark America’s 100th birthday. To be certain, the Bicentennial Celebration was the harbinger of Boardman Rotary’s annual Oktoberfest in the park.
      As the 20th century came to a close, the Boardman Local School System added an auditorium to its high school building---now called the Boardman Performing Arts Center.
      Its construction was bolstered by a two-year fund-raising campaign that raised more than $1.5 million over a two-year period. The campaign was based on fellowship among people in the community. For example, both local GOP and Democrat parties had a role in the campaign to build the auditorium; and a one day Boardman PTA garage sale at the Southern Park Mall raised more than $60,000 for the campaign. That community effort would not have been successful if it were not for the volunteer efforts of co-chairman Tom Costello, treasurer Ed Lugibihl and secretary Nancy Terlesky, who gave countless hours to help complete the ‘Auditorium 2000’ campaign.
      Another major community effort created the Fields Of Dreams off McClurg Rd. some two and a half decades ago. Today the complex is one of the largest youth baseball facilities in the eastern United States. Upwards of 20,000 people attend baseball games there every year. The facility would not have become a reality if it were not for the contributions of architect Chuck Schafer, funds provided by Clarence Smith Jr. and John and Denise York; and work on the project donated by the A.P. O’Horo Co. and Joe Dickey Electric. Volunteers Greg Krieger, John Walsh and Marykaye Carlson oversaw the effort.
      To be certain, Boardman Township is fortunate to be blessed with philanthropists who haven’t forgotten the community in which they work and live.
      D.D. Davis, Clarence R. Smith, Edward J. DeDartolo Sr., Edward J. DeBartolo Jr., Denise DeBartolo-York, John York, F.W. Knecht, Joe Sylvester, Joe Dickey Jr. and Tony Lariccia come readily to mind. Over the years they have quietly supported civic groups and civic causes with leadership, and with many, many monetary donations.
      Our community would not be as vibrant as it is today, if it were not for the contributions of these individuals; as well as service clubs like Boardman Kiwanis, Boardman Rotary, Boardman Optimists and the Boardman Lions.
      Since The Boardman News was founded, in large degree the community has been served by good public officials, and well protected by members of the Boardman Police Department.
      Adept public officials who are easily recalled include Trustees Robert W. Bannon, William G. Houser and his son, Joe; John Cox, Elaine Mancini, Tom Costello, Larry Moliterno and Brad Calhoun---Clerks/Fiscal Officers Margaret VanBrocklin, Genevieve Novicky and Bill Leicht---School Board members Clarence R. Smith Sr. and his son, Clarence; Dr. Nicolette, William Fowler, Don McKay, Larry Springer, Charles Beeghly, Mark Huberman, F.W. Knecht, Leroy Olson. Fay Heintzelman, Nik Amstutz, Jeff Barone--- And Boardman Park has prospered under the leadership of Dan Slagle.
      Chiefs of Police who stand out include Dan Maggianetti, Grant L. Hess, Glenn Bowers, Jeffrey Patterson, Jack Nichols and Todd Werth.
      It was under Chief Bowers, with help from his fellow officers who included Steve Balog and George Statler, that the modern-day Boardman Police Department was conceptualized.
      Under Chief Jeffrey Patterson, the Boardman Police Department made its biggest step towards professionalism when it became certified by the Commission on Accreditation for Law Enforcement Agencies, Inc. (CALEA). Sadly, the accreditation was lost due to political manuevering when Patrick Berarducci served as Boardman police chief.
      The Boardman Fire Department would not be the same today if it were not for the pioneering efforts of Chiefs Merle Gifford, Don Cover. Jim Wilson and Jim Dorman. (Although much of what the Boardman Fire Department does today is couched behind so-called Hippa laws).
      Under the leadership of Trustees Mancini, Cox and Joe Houser, Boardman Township became a large urban township, and the position of township administrator was added to the public workforce. Boardman Township is fortunate to have had Robert Schaal, Curt Seditz and Jason Loree serve in that position.
      -----Just some thoughts, as The Boardman News observes its 75th year of publishing; and thanks to the community for making that possible.
      Gwen and John A. Darnell jr.
  Signs Of A Scam Nixes $92,500 Sale Of 2019 Jeep  
  November 11, 2021 Edition  
     BY JOHN A. DARNELL JR.
      associate editor
      After receiving a variety of stories, a Boardman-based businessman did not sell his limited edition, 2019 Jeep Grand Cherokee Trailhawk that he had sought to sell on Facebook Marketplace for $95,000.
      Ray McClelland, 30, of Lisbon Rd., Salem, of FTK Diesel and Performance, 762 Bev Rd., told police he had received a message on Facebook from a man who identified himself as Wayne James Robert, of Bay St. Louis, Mississippi, who in the message agreed to purchase the Jeep for $92,500.
      “Robert called McClelland on Oct. 21 by telephone and agreed to transfer the funds to A&S Federal Credit Union, as McClelland requested,” Ptl. Stephen Dubos said, adding that when asked to provide a copy of his driver’s license in order to make a bill of sale, Robert declined, and instead told McClelland he lived at ‘8501 Beverly Lane, Florida.’
      Six days later, police were told that Robert made another call to McClelland, advising his driver, “Mike,” was on his way to get the vehicle.
      During that conversation, McClelland told “Mr. Robert” that he still needed to see his driver’s license, a signed proof of sale and a temporary tag to put on the vehicle. Robert countered, asking to use McClelland’s Ohio license plates.
      Robert then sent McClelland a picture of a Florida driver’s license, listing an address of 8501 Beverly Lane, St. Augustine, Fla.. However, the name on the license was not Wayne James Robert, it was Robert James Wayne, Ptl. Dubos said.
      McClelland then contacted his bank to verify funds from the sale of the Jeep had been transferred into his account from a Wells Fargo bank. The bank advised ‘this was unusual behavior for the account holder.’
      Ptl. Dubos said that McClelland then contacted law enforcement in St. Augustine, and was told that Robert James Wayne is a middle-aged white male, while the man McClelland had been speaking with is black.
      The St. Johns County Sheriff’s Office informed McClelland, they had received reports of scams, where funds would appear to be in an account for a couple of days, but then get declined.
      On Oct. 27, about 11:30 a.m., police learned a man identified as Walter L. Holmes III showed-up at FTK Diesel and Performance to pick-up the Jeep.
      Upon arrival, ‘Holmes’ spoke with two employees, telling them he couldn’t believe ‘his dad was ‘making him do this,’ because he had to drive all the way back to Florida, then go to work that morning, while bragging about how the logistics company he worked for ‘flies him all over the place,’ Officer Dubos said.
      When Det. Ben Switka spoke with Holmes, he learned the man told the employees he was from Jackson, Miss. and was doing a favor for a friend named ‘Bruce,’ [also known as ‘Junior, and whom he had known for a ‘half year’]; and that Bruce never told him what kind of ‘car’ it was, or ‘where to take the car in Florida’.
      Officer Dubos told the detective that Holmes had airline tickets in a backpack that showed him flying to the Pittsburgh Airport, then taking an uber ride to Boardman. Also in the backpack was a cell phone that contained several phone calls to and from ‘Bruce,’ indicating the man used a Uniontown, Ky. location. In addition, the phone contained several pictures of McClelland’s Jeep.
      “[Holmes] then changed his story, stating he looked the Jeep up on Marketplace,” police said.
      In addition, inside the backpack, police found seven, $100 bills (marked for ‘Motion Picture Purposes Only’).
      “The money appeared real at first glance. Holmes said that someone working in the airport took his wallet and must have put them inside,” Officer Dubos said.
      Upon the advice of the Mahoning County Prosecutor’s Office, Holmes was released from custody, “gathered his belongings and left on foot.
      “He stated that he didn’t want the fake currency and left it behind,” Officer Dubos said.
      The deal for the Jeep was not finalized, as the St. Johns County Sheriff’s Office said their agency had contacted the ‘real’ Robert James Wayne, who advised he had checked his bank account and found no fraudulent activity and was unaware anyone was using his personal identification, Officer Dubos said.
      Wayne also told the Florida sheriff’s office he had received a letter from a motorcycle dealership in Louisiana notifying him they couldn’t approve the purchase of a motorcycle,
      “Wayne didn’t think much of it at the time, so he never reported the incident,” Officer Dubos said.
     
  November General Election Results  
  November 11, 2021 Edition  
     Boardman Township Trustee
      (Two to elect)
      Name........................Total Votes
      Brad Calhoun................4,290
      Tom Costello................3,858
      Tabitha Fitz-Patrick........1,672
      Jason Pavone................1,525
      Mahoning Education Service Center Board
      (Three to elect)
      Kathi McNabb Welsh.......14,781
      Richard Scarsella..........12,725
      Jeff Good..................11,139
      Boardman Board of Education
      (Three to elect)
      Vickie Davis................3,886
      John Landers................3,748
      John Fryda..................3,695
      Anthony Buchmann............2,225
      Boardman Township 3-mil renewal
      For.........................4,169
      Against.....................2,534
      Local Option Liquor Issues
      Peaberry’s Cafe (weekdays)
      For...........................230
      Against........................64
      Peaberry’s Cafe (Sundays)
      For...........................215
      Against........................79
      Combine Brothers (weekdays)
      For...........................234
      Against........................35
      Combine Brothers (Sundays)
      For...........................230
      Against........................39
      Mahoning County 1/4 Per Cent
      (Roads, Bridges, Infrastructure)
      For........................20,798
      Against....................19,039
      Mahoning County Developmental Disabilities
      (2-mil renewal)
      For........................28,917
      Against....................11,138
     
  Census: 40,213 Live In Boardman  
  November 11, 2021 Edition  
     Figures released to Boardman Township show the township’s population, according to the 2020 census, is 40,213 where residents have a annual median household income of $56,470; and married couples have a larger annual median income of $87,883
      The census figures were mentioned at the Oct. 25 meeting of Boardman Township Trustees.
      Additional Census Statistics
      Total Housing Units............................19,501
      Total Occupied Housing Units...........18,150
      Per Cent of Population Over 65............20.6%
      Population History
      1800....................893
      1930..................5,500
      1950.................13,606
      1970.................30,852
      1980.................39,161
      1990.................38,596
      2000.................42,518
      2010.................40,358
      2020.................40,213
     
  VETERANS WELCOME AT GLENWOOD JR. HIGH  
  November 4, 2021 Edition  
     Mahoning County Municipal Court Judge Joe Schiavoni and United States Marine Corps Major Jeff Cisek will be the featured speakers at a Veterans Day Assembly at Glenwood Junior High on Thursday, November 11 at 9:00 a.m. Special video messages from both of Ohio’s U.S. Senators are also planned. Veterans interested in attending are asked to call the GJHS main office at 330-726-3414 and provide their name along with their branch of military service.
       “We are very excited that both Judge Schiavoni and Major Cisek will be here to share their experiences with the students and to help us honor our local military men and women,” said Glenwood teacher Vince Carnevale, who organized the program. “We look forward to this Glenwood tradition. We are happy to invite our veterans to share in some refreshments after the program, as well.”
      Masks are required for this indoor event.
     
  Fugitive Who Eluded Local Police Captured At Niles, Oh. Days Inn  
  November 4, 2021 Edition  
     Federal and local law enforcement officials arrested a 25-year-old man on a variety of charges last week at a Days Inn, in Niles. The man originally came to the attention of Boardman and Poland police when he was seen exiting a stolen car in the parking lot of the Red Roof Inn on Tiffany Blvd., Boardman.
      The suspect, who was wanted in connection with stolen vehicles and a high-speed pursuit, was identified as Montrell Holmes, 25, of 171 Butler St., New Haven, Connecticut, was located at the Days Inn, 1300 Youngstown-Warren Rd., Niles, Oh. and taken into custody. Authorities said Holmes attempted to flee from police and fell from a 12-foot balcony at the inn. He landed on the ground, face down, with a U.S. Marshall on top of him, the Boardman News was told.
      Holmes came to the attention of Boardman police on Oct. 21 at the Red Roof Inn on Tiffany Blvd., when authorities were investigating a stolen car report. Ptl. Mike Salser said that Holmes was viewed on a security camera getting out of a stolen Toyota Rav at 3:43 a.m. in the parking lot of the inn. Police located Holmes at the inn at 8:30 a.m., and as Ptl. Pat Klingensmith was attempting to handcuff the man, he fled on foot.
      “Sgt Mike Hughes and Officer Klingensmith chased Holmes to the parking lot of the (nearby) Days Inn parking lot where he stole another vehicle and fled on South Ave.,” Officer Salser said.
      Police said that Holmes fled in a pick-up truck owned by Munawar Chaudry, who operates the Days Inn. “Chaudry stated that he had just parked his truck...when Holmes jumped inside, started the ignition and fled the lot,” Ptl. Mike Dado said.
      Holmes eluded police for some two hours until Sgt. Hughes located the truck, with Holmes inside, at a Shell gas station at 3200 Market St. in Youngstown. “As Sgt. Hughes approached the truck, Holmes put it in reverse and fled south on Market St.,” Officer Dado said. Hughes noted as Holmes sped away from him, “he gestured the middle finger at me.”
      Several police units took up the chase, and when the pursuit reached the intersection of Mathews Rd. and Sheridan Rd., Officer Newland said the truck “exited the roadway, almost striking two Mahoning County Engineer’s Office employees who were working on the roadway.”
      At one point during the pursuit, Officer Newland said the driver of the stolen truck “aggressively swerved in front of me, then suddenly spiked his brakes, resulting in a collision.” Despite the collision, Officer Newland continued the pursuit until smoke began to fill his cruiser and he ended his chase.
      Eventually, Officer Dado tracked the stolen truck to I-680 near East Midlothian Blvd. Police continued their pursuit at speeds in excess of 100-miles-per-hour on I-680, until the pursuit was called off. “Based upon the increasing speeds and erratic driving of the subject, the pursuit was terminated,” Boardman Police Chief Todd Werth said.
      About 5:30 p.m. on Oct. 21. Liberty Township police located the stolen truck in a driveway on Tibbetts-Wick Rd. There, the homeowner told police a black male exited the truck about 1:00 p.m. and left in an unknown direction.
      Holmes has been charged with Receiving Stolen Property (F-4) and Obstructing Official Business (M-2) based upon a stolen vehicle recovered at the Days Inn in Boardman. Holmes is also charged with Motor Vehicle Theft (F-4) and Failure to Comply (Flee and Elude) (F-3).
      He also faces federal charges.
       Note: On May 14, 2017, Holmes was arrested by the Clinton, Conn. police where he faced 152 different criminal charges including for burglary, theft of a firearm and motor vehicles that occurred over a two-day period, between Nov. 11, 2016 and Nov. 26, 2016.
      A source told The Boardman News that Holmes was in the Mahoning Valley to meet a female he had previously ‘met’ on social media.
     
  Ohio Room At YSU Named In Honor Longtime Attorney Daniel L. Rossi  
  November 4, 2021 Edition  
     The Youngstown State University Foundation announces the creation of the Atty. Daniel L. Rossi Scholarship to benefit full-time students at the university.
      Atty. Rossi, of Stratford Rd., Boardman, established the scholarship with a $300,000 gift. In turn, the name of the Ohio Room in Kilcawley Center will be changed to the Attorney Daniel L. Rossi Room.
      “The scholarship for YSU students represents one of the core values of what we believe is so important: Education,” the Rossi family said. “Daniel is honored to contribute to the education of our future leaders.”
      Rossi, 94, is a lifelong resident of the Mahoning Valley and attended the former Madison Elementary School and East High School.
      At the age of 17, he enlisted in the United States Navy and served in World War II. After he was discharged, and with the assistance of the Serviceman Readjustment Act of 1944, the G.I. Bill, Rossi enrolled in Youngstown College (now YSU) and later studied at Ohio Northern University to pursue his law degree.
      Upon graduation, he returned to Youngstown to practice law. He met his wife, the former Mary Rossvanes, and they had five children, eight grandchildren and four great-grandchildren.
      In 1952, he founded the Rossi law firm. He practiced law for over 60 years, and prior to retiring, successfully tried his final jury case at the age of 81. His son, Gregg, now operates the family law practice, Rossi & Rossi.
      Rossi always honored his parents, August Rossi and Augusta (née Mastrantonio), who both emigrated to the United States from Italy. After August became a U.S. citizen, he was drafted into the Army and served in World War I as part of the American Expeditionary Force that fought against the German Army in the Argonne Forest in France. Rossi says that he is grateful for his father, instilling a solid work ethic and unwavering American pride in him. He still has his father’s helmet.
     
      PICTURED: Atty. Daniel L. Rossi, left, and President Jim Tressel at the Attorney Daniel L. Rossi Seminar Room in Kilcawley Center on the campus of Youngstown State University.
  OPINION  
  Vote Costello, Calhoun For Trustee:   October 28, 2021 Edition  
     Over the past four years, Boardman Township’s three-member Board of Trustees has worked diligently to address drainage issues and maintain manpower in the police and fire departments.
      Efforts on drainage issues have been wide-ranging, including completion of over $3 million in stormwater projects, as well as obtaining some $1.5 million in grant monies for stormwater projects this year and into next year.
      Efforts at maintaining township services has been accomplished despite the loss of some $3 million in state subsidies.
      In addition, the Board of Trustees has collaborated with the Boardman Local School Board, Mahoning County Commissioners and the Western Reserve Port Authority to insure a $30 million capital improvement program at the Southern Park Mall was undertaken, thus preserving one of the biggest assets in terms of property taxes and employment opportunities in the township and Mahoning County.
      On Tues., Nov. 2, voters will go to the polls to vote on two seats on the Board of Trustees. Incumbents Tom Costello and Brad Calhoun are seeking re-election. They are opposed by Jason Pavone and Tabitha Fitz-Patrick.
      Mr. Pavone has stated his belief that Boardman Township should become a city; and says he does not support tax abatements.
      Mrs. Fitz-Patrick says she wants to build a sidewalk along Southern Blvd., from Western Reserve Rd. all the way down to Market St. in Youngstown; and she also calls for the installation of central air conditioning in Boardman Local School buildings.
      We staunchly believe township government is the closest form of government to the people it serves, and creating a city would cost more taxpayer dollars than is currently doled-out for government services, as well as add additional, needless layers of government for taxpayers to contend with.
      And, do we really want to spend millions of dollars so residents can take a walk down Southern Blvd. from Western Reserve Rd. into Youngstown?
      Further, there is a distinction between a school board member and a township trustee, who has no business placing a priority on the public school system’s HVAC system.
      Most important to the welfare of Boardman Township, in addition to preserving its tax base, is support for the Boardman Police Department, where manpower has been held at roughly 60 officers for the past quarter century.
      But there is a big distinction between now and 25 years ago, when police answered about 20,000 calls a year. According to Mr. Calhoun and Police Chief Todd Werth, the police department now responds to upwards of 70,000 calls per year. Those numbers alone seem to dictate Boardman Township needs more police officers, who are now with increasing frequency, forced to delay responding to some calls because of lack of manpower.
      Adding manpower at the Boardman Police Department suggests additional funding is needed, as well as changes in the salary of new hires at the BPD, and perhaps some restructuring in Civil Service rules.
      Acknowledging the diligent efforts of current Trustees Tom Costello, Brad Calhoun as well as Larry Moliterno in addressing drainage issues and their efforts at re-writing zoning codes in an effort to preserve neighborhoods in the township; campaigns by challengers for seats held by both incumbents fall way short of the mark.
      Mr. Costello and Mr. Calhoun stress their efforts to work as a team, and in harmony, to keep Boardman Township A Nice Place to Call Home.
      Both are best-suited to deal with improving manpower at the Boardman Police Department, we suggest, by working in harmony with the PD’s administration and labor unions.
      In the best interests of Boardman Township, incumbents Tom Costello and Brad Calhoun deserve re-election. They have worked hard to maintain current levels of service, keep our neighborhoods safe, maintain good roads, and serve residents and businesses.
      On Nov. 2, vote to return Tom Costello and Brad Calhoun to seats on the Boardman Township Board of Trustees.
  OPINION  
  Retain Fryda, Davis, Landers On Boardman Local School Board:   October 28, 2021 Edition  
     When voters go to the polls on Tues., Nov. 2, there will be four candidates, including three incumbents, seeking three seats on the Boardman Board of Education. Incumbents seeking re-election are John Fryda, Vickie Davis and John Landers. They are being challenged by Anthony Buchmann.
      When considering the field of candidates, the incumbents stand above their opponent as the best qualified to serve the Boardman Local School District.
      For example, when the League of Women voters asked each candidate about their qualifications for office, Mr. Fryda, who is seeking a second term on the board, said he has worked successfully with other board members, the administration, students and community, adding he has a knowledge of the fiscal responsibilities of the system.
      Ms. Davis, who has served on the local school board since 2014, points to her experience as a major qualification for returning her to a seat on the board.
      Mr. Landers also cites his service to the school district for the past twelve years, noting he is an advocate for fair school funding and is a member of the Boardman High School Class of 2000.
      Mr. Buchmann said as a tradesman, he would bring uniqueness to the school board, adding “I am an American citizen, a husband and a father of teenagers.”
      As for priorities, Mr. Fryda said he will serve all citizens, support a safe and positive learning enviroment, and maintain open communication and a working relationship with the community.
      Ms. Davis says she will “continue to stretch taxpayer dollars...while continuing to fight the unfairness of public school funding at the state level.”
      She adds “The role of a school board member is also to support the community around them.”
      Mr. Landers opines his priorities include advocating for fair school funding, “continue to evolve and improve communication to the community” and (provide) support for “individual pathways to learn.”
      Mr. Buchmann calls for increased transparency, accountability and in a seeming poor-mouth call he says “Bring all trades/military service to equal level with college to allow kids every option before making a decision that will effect (students) for the rest of their lives.”
      Mr. Buchmann has made efforts to bring his campaign into the public forum, including demonstrating in opposition to the school system’s mask policy (with about a dozen other people) at the intersection of Rt. 224 and Market St. one recent weekend, as well as having a family member parade around a school board meeting objecting to the district’s busing policy---to the point of intimidating a young girl who also wanted to address the board to thank fire-fighters for their service, out of doing so.
      Such antics don’t serve students and the district well, as the example of the frightened young girl demonstrates.
      Mr. Buchmann makes a call for zero tolerance for bullying (an apparent reference to a mother whose complaints last year forced a teacher’s aide, under pressure from the school board, to resign). So in fact, there is a zero tolerance for the teacher aide’s actions, and it cost the aide a job.
      Mr. Buchmann’s candidacy wreaks of smoke and mirrors, and if elected, his candidacy has displayed a lack willingness to work as a team for the overall benefit of the kids in the school district, as he alludes to the belief that as a tradesman, he is somehow a lesser person than someone with a college degree.
      To be certain, Ms. Davis and Mr. Landers need to be more open with their communication skills. It is a well-known fact if either of these two board members are asked about their opinions on school-related matters, they more often than not, defer questions to someone else.
      However, in the best interests of the Boardman Local School District and the students they serve, John Fryda, Vickie Davis and John Landers are the best candidates for election to the school board.
      We recall board members like Norm Purucker and Robert Ameduri, whose terms on the school board were divisive, and serving as one-man minorities on a five-member board, they accomplished little to benefit the students and school district they were elected to serve.
      Especially in that light, John Fryda, Vickie Davis and John Landers are the best candidates for election to the Boardman Local School Board on Tues., Nov. 2.
  County Commissioners Award $1 Million To Water District For Creation Of Stormwater Park  
  At Site Of Market St. Elementary School:   October 28, 2021 Edition  
     BY JOHN A. DARNELL JR.
      associate editor
      Meeting on Wed., Oct. 20, Mahoning County Commissioners awarded the ABC Water and Stormwater District $1 million towards the creation of a 14.6 acre stormwater park on the property of Market St. Elementary School. The project will take about two years to complete at a cost of some $3 million. When completed, the project will create an area able to hold up to 9-feet of water on an area the size of a football field, and is expected to alleviate storm water issues impacting upwards of 1,400 homes. The stormwater park will include natural habitat areas, a general reforestation of the overall site, a paved and a lighted walking trail (equipped with security cameras).
      County commissioner Anthony Traficanti said his board was “proud and happy to be able to help Boardman Township with flooding issues.
      “The project looks like it will be fantastic.”
      In accepting the funding, Boardman Township Trustee Tom Costello said the stormwater park “will create a beautiful, park-like setting for the neighborhood for years to come.”
      In response, Commissioner Traficanti lauded the township trustees for their “phenomenal collaboration” with the Boardman Local School Board.
      County commissioner David Ditzler said the stormwater park will provide “the biggest impact for the most people. We are proud to assist Boardman Township. You don’t ever get a chance to impact so many homes with so much land.”
      Added Commissioner Traficanti, “Trustees Costello, Calhoun and Moliterno should be commended for your aggressive efforts in attacking flooding in Boardman.”
      In addition to the $1 million grant from the county commissioners, funding for the stormwater park will also come from a $500,000 Ohio Capital Grant. In addition, applications for more funding have been made to the Federal Emergency Management Association (FEMA), the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, and State Rep. Al Cutrona is expected to seek more funds from a capital grant.
      First step in the project is the demolition of Market St. Elementary School, and bids are now being sought for that effort.
     
      PICTURED: BOARDMAN TOWNSHIP TRUSTEES accepted a check for $1 million last week from the Mahoning County Commissioners for use in the creation of a stormwater park at Market St. Elementary School. Pictured, from left, Jason Loree, Boardman Township Administrator; Tom Costello, Boardman Township Trustee; Anthony Traficanti, Mahoning County Commissioner; Larry Moliterno, Boardman Township Trustee; David Ditzler and Carol Rimedio-Righetti, Mahoning County Commissioners; and Brad Calhoun, Boardman Township Trustee.
     
  Ohev Tzedek-Rodef Sholom Temples Will Merge Nov. 1  
  October 21, 2021 Edition  
     Ohev Tzedek Temple on Glenwood Ave. in Boardman will merge with Rodef Sholom Temple in Youngstown. Mark Huberman, president of Ohev Tzedek, confirmed this week.
      Nancy Burnett, president of Rodef Sholom said she was “approached by the president of Ohev Tzedek asking if we could find a path to merging our two congregations. An initial committee of six persons (Elliot Legow, Dick Shapiro, and me representing Rodef Sholom; Mark Huberman, Booker Kessler, and Sam A Roth representing Ohev Tzedek). Our proposed newly formed congregation will be housed in our historic synagogue on Elm Street and will be led by a Reform Rabbi. We will hold Reform services on Friday evenings and Conservative services on Saturday mornings.”
      The new, merged congregation will be known a Congregation Ohev Beth Sholom, a name chosen to be inclusive of all three congregations---Rodef Sholom, Ohev Tzedek, and Temple Beth Israel, the Sharon Temple with whom Rodef Sholom merged seven years ago.
      “Although the name will change, our mission and footprint in the Mahoning and Shenango Valleys remains the same,” Burnett said.
      The Board of Directors of Ohev Tzedek deems it to be in the best interest of Ohev Tzedek to carry out a statutory merger with Rodef Sholom, a proposed merger agreement says, noting the merger will become effective Nov. 1.
      Huberman told The Boardman News theat Saturday services will continue to be held at Ohev Tzedek, at least until next spring, unless the site of the Boardman temple is sold before then.
  ACH Groundbreaking For Emergency Dept. Additions  
  October 21, 2021 Edition  
     Akron Children’s Hospital broke ground on a $31 million construction project at its Boardman campus on Market St. last week.
      The ACH/Boardman campus will expand its emergency department from 9,600 square feet to 34,700 square feet when construction is completed. When completed, the capital improvements will provide the hospital with six additional treatment rooms, bringing the total to 23. There will also be two, new behavioral health needs-based treatment rooms, as well as a second triage room.
      The ACH/Boardman campus received a $1 million gift from Handel’s Homemade Ice Cream chairman, Lenny Fisher, to help fund the work. The hospital will rename Building A on its campus in honor of Fisher.
      The hospital expects construction to be completed in spring 2023.
      “I am pleased to support such an important initiative in the Mahoning Valley,” Fisher said, adding “The health of our children is so important, especially in today’s climate. And providing support for the emergency department, which has seen explosive growth, is a way that we can help impact the community for generations to come.”
      Since the opening of the Beeghly campus in December, 2008 there have been over 348,000 visits to the hospital’s emergency department.
      The current facility has the capacity to see 80 patients per day, but the department regularly cares for well above that almost daily.
      “The need to expand this department is critical,” said Grace Wakulchik, ACH president and CEO.
      “Our expanded emergency department is a major investment in the Mahoning Valley community and continues to build on the commitment we began when we opened the campus in 2008,” said Paul Olivier, vice president of ACH/Mahoning Valley.
  Friends Of Fido Fundraiser Set For Nov. 13 At Davidson’s  
  October 21, 2021 Edition  
     In the last 10 years, Friends of Fido has helped close to 1,500 Mahoning County Dog Pound dogs, paying more than $608,000 in vet bills.
      The non-profit group plans a big 10-year anniversary fundraiser Nov. 13 to help continue that work.
      FoF started in 2011 when volunteers who walk the pound pups wanted to do more to help the dogs that came in sick or injured.
      “The Mahoning Dog Warden is a government agency and its funding is limited,” said Shirley Tkalec, Friends of Fido president. “But so many of the dogs that end up here come in sick or injured, many severely. Our group started to help those poor dogs—to help them get healthy and to hopefully help them find loving, forever homes.”
      FoF members estimate the organization takes pound pups to about 200 vet visits each year with volunteers transporting the dogs and the group footing the bills.
      The volunteer organization runs entirely on donations.
      The Nov. 13 fundraiser will be at Davidson’s Restaurant and Tavern, and feature a huge basket raffle and 50/50 drawing. Davidson’s is at 3636 Canfield Rd., Cornersburg.
      The event, sponsored by T-Mobile, runs from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. The first 75 people to buy tickets for the basket raffle will each get a $10 Davidson’s gift card, courtesy of T-Mobile.
      T-Mobile is also offering a chance to win a $100 Amazon gift card and company representatives will hand out 225 collapsible dog bowls to people who attend the event.
      FoF also buys treats, toys and beds for the pound dogs. Pound staff and volunteers walk the dogs and help to socialize them to increase the animals’ adoption chances.
      “Fundraisers are crucial because that’s how we pay to treat these dogs,” FoF’s president said.
      “Sadly, there’s no shortage of homeless dogs that need vet care. So far this year, we’ve taken 149 dogs to the vet, some multiple times. That’s added up to more than $85,000 just through September. The need never stops so we can’t stop either,” she added.
  Shopping Mall Pioneer DeBartolo Called Boardman Home---His Influence Spanned Across America  
  October 14, 2021 Edition  
     BY JOHN A. DARNELL JR.
      associate editor
      When newly-completed capital improvements at the Southern Park Mall are unveiled to the public during a Community Day celebration set for Sat., Oct. 23, in addition to showcasing the four-acre DeBartolo Commons, the event will memorialize American shopping mall pioneer Edward J. DeBartolo Sr., who built the mall in the late 1960s. Mr. DeBartolo made his home on Southwoods Dr. in Boardman.
      The exhibit will pay tribute to the DeBartolo-York family’s tremendous impact in the Boardman/Youngstown community, and its iconic place in the retail, real estate and professional sports worlds.
      “In addition to DeBartolo Commons, it’s been an honor to collaborate with Mrs. Denise DeBartolo-York and her team on the DeBartolo retrospective, which commemorates Edward J. DeBartolo Sr. and the family’s significant impact through storytelling that transcends decades. The exhibit features artfully executed visuals, original publications and video, hand-selected photos, articles and treasures from the family’s personal archives. We’re excited for our guests and the Boardman and broader Youngstown/Mahoning Valley community to experience their dynasty in a way their story hasn’t been told,” said Jennifer Moretti, senior vice president and chief activation officer of Washington Prime Group (WPG).
      “We placed the exhibit in the heart of the center, adjacent to DeBartolo Commons, to emphasize the importance and pay homage to the DeBartolo-York family’s legacy in the community. Southern Park Mall is a perfect place to memorialize the DeBartolo family,” Moretti added.
      “Washington Prime Group is honored to be affiliated with this great family and we are proud that Southern Park Mall will be a permanent place to share their legacy,” said Lou Conforti, CEO and director of WPG.
      “Lou Conforti and the Washington Prime Group team have brought their vision, drive and resources to solidify Southern Park Mall’s place as the social and entertainment center of Boardman,” said Denise DeBartolo York. “I am grateful my family’s legacy will live on through this exhibit.”
      Edward J. DeBartolo Sr.
      Edward J. DeBartolo Sr. grew-up in Smokey Hollow in Youngstown, Oh., and graduated from South High School in 1927. He never knew his father, Anthony Paonessa, who died before he was born. His mother, Rose, married Michael DeBartolo, a Youngstown contractor, and ‘Mr. D,’ as he became known, took Michael’s last name, and at a very early age, began working for his father’s construction business.
      It was his stepfather, Mr. DeBartolo always said, who taught him humility and how to work long hours.
      Following graduation from high school, Mr. DeBartolo went on to earn a degree in civil engineering from Notre Dame, and then served in the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers during World War II. (While in the service, he married his wife, Marie Patricia Montani, on Dec. 18, 1943, where he had been commissioned a lieutenant at Officer’s Candidate School at Ft. Belvior, Va.)
      Legend says that ‘Mr. D’ was a very good poker player, and when he got off the boat returning to America following the World War II, many fellow servicemen owed him plenty of debts from the card games they played while traveling across the ocean.
      Less than enamored with the way city officials conducted business in Youngstown, Mr. D formed his own company, The Edward J. DeBartolo Corp., in 1948 and began building strip plazas away from the city.
      Mr. D foresaw that the development of suburbia after WWII would change shopping habits. Starting with strip malls in the 1950s and then moving on to enclosed malls in the mid-1960s, he built a mall empire that became one of the industry’s top revenue producers.
      Among his early projects was the Greater Boardman Plaza, first opened in the early 1950s. He faced financial hurdles and great skepticism in building the plaza, after all, his critics claimed, who would want to go ‘all the way’ out to the suburbs to shop?
      With a ‘five and dime’ store like W.T. Grant, a grocery store, a drug store, two clothing stores and a hardware store among its tenants, the Boardman Plaza, as well as Mr. D’s company thrived.
      It was the plaza, and its arcade that gave Mr. D the impetus to building enclosed shopping malls.
      During Christmas, Mr. DeBartolo held a community event at the Boardman Plaza arcade. Santa Claus would appear from behind the building, hoisted atop the arcade portion of the plaza by a Boardman Fire Department truck.
      Cookies and hot chocolate would be provided to patrons who gathered inside the arcade during Santa’s arrival, and Mr. DeBartolo began considering construction of an enclosed shopping center, where people could not only shop, but gather for community events, eat and...shop, and not worry about the weather.
      The suburban shopping plaza, or strip centers as they were sometimes called, indeed did change the shopping habits of Americans.
      Within ten years, the Edward J. DeBartolo Corp. moved from its south-side Youngstown headquarters into new general offices at 7620 Market St., at the intersection of Southwoods Dr. in Boardman.
      Among the many projects the firm completed during its first decade, in addition to the Boardman Plaza, were the Mahoning Shopping Plaza on the far west side of Youngstown; North Hills Village Shopping Center, Pittsburgh, Pa., the Hickory Plaza, Sharon, Pa.; Norton Village, Barberton, Oh.; Midway Plaza, Akron, Oh., Loblaw’s Division Office and Warehouse, the Akron-area office of the Ohio Bell Telephone Co., and Century Foods headquarters, on Meridian Rd. in Youngstown.
      At the time, the growth and success of the DeBartolo Corp. also led to growth and success of its suppliers, that locally included Master’s Office Furniture, Roth Brothers Heating and Cooling, The Boardman Supply Co., Antonucci Electric Co. and Parella Construction, to name a few.
      “Continuing changes to the shopping habits have revolutionized retail,” Mr. D. told The Boardman News in 1969, adding “this growth and development gave birth to the mall.”
      While construction was still on-going, Mr. DeBartolo opened the first store at Southern Park to the public in Aug., 1969. That was Sears. Among the earliest businesses at Southern Park were JCPenney, Livingston’s, Gray Drugs, and Lustig’s Shoe Store and Strouus’.
      An added feature was a restaurant perched on top of the mall called The Terrace Room.
      When Southern Park opened, the Boardman-based Edward J. DeBartolo Corp. operated 13 malls with 20 more under construction.
      “Today’s shopping malls are as extravagant as his strip centers were conservative,” one observer said at the time.
      About two decades later, the DeBartolo Corp. developments stretched across America, as a company press release said “Nearly one-half billion people were serviced by DeBartolo entities.”
      In 1986 alone, The Edward J. DeBartolo Corp. cited its involvement in projects in California, New York, Ohio, Oregon, Pennsylvania, Washington and Texas in creating over 5,500 new jobs with the new development, or renovation work.
      A year later, The Edward J. DeBartolo Corp. owned and/or managed more than 100 shopping and entertainment sites in America, (including what was once the world’s largest shopping mall, Randall Park, near Cleveland), overseeing more than 100 million square-feet of retail space in its portfolio.
      As Mr. DeBartolo observed at the time, “We strive to set the standards of excellence in the retail industry by which all other are judged. Each project represents a long-term commitment to service the needs of our shoppers, as well as tenants.”
      Enjoying success in retail and real estate also brought Mr. D into the world of sports.
      In 1977, he led the purchase of majority stock in the San Francisco 49ers and under his son, Ed Jr., the Niners became known as “The Team of the 80s,” and were the first NFL team to win five Super Bowl titles.
      The Niners are now owned and operated by his daughter, Denise, and her husband Dr. John York, and their children, Jed, Jenna and Mara.
      From 1959-1999 Thistledown Race Track was operated by the DeBartolo Corp. In 1999, the track was sold to Magna Entertainment Corp.
      Mr. D also developed Remington Downs in Oklahoma. When first opened, it was the first horse racing track in America where horses ran on an artificial dirt track.
      Mr. D and his family also owned the Pittsburgh Penguins of the National Hockey League from February, 1977 until selling it to an ownership group led by Howard Baldwin in November, 1991. His team would win the Stanley Cup in 1991. He name was engraved onto the Stanley Cup along with his daughter, Denise DeBartolo York, who served as president of the hockey team.
      Mr. D said at a rally after the first Stanley Cup win that the occasion was “possibly the happiest moment of my life.”
      He also owned the soccer team Pittsburgh Spirit from 1978 until 1986.
      Success in business and sports also led to a major role in philanthropy.
      For example, Mr. D played a major role in renovations at his church, St. Charles, in Boardman.
      He was a major contributor to Youngstown State University and in 1984 was the recipient of the university’s Distinguished Citizen Award.
      In May, 1989, Mr. D announced what was then the largest gift ever in higher education, $33 million, to the University of Notre Dame that created a $16 million Edward J. DeBartolo classroom facility, and a $14 million Marie P. DeBartolo Center for the Performing Arts, in honor of his wife.
      More legendary, on the local level, are Mr. D’s contributions that more than often went unnoticed, like support for the Mill Creek Children’s Center. Typical was a gift to Austintown Little League. When approached to help support development of baseball fields, Mr. D graciously offered to pay for everything.
      Similarly, when Boardman Little League had some safety and funding issues, his son-in-law, John York, provided a gift to help make the Fields of Dreams on McClurg Rd. as safe as possible.
      Mr. D’s daughter, Denise, has continued a tradition begun by her father, by memorializing his interest in higher education with the annual Edward J. DeBartolo Sr. Memorial Scholarships. Over more than two decades, more than $1.5 million in college scholarships have been awarded.
      When Boardman High School’s Center for the Performing Arts was dedicated at the turn of the century, it was a major contribution from Denise DeBartolo-York that provided funding for special concert given by BHS graduate Maureen McGovern that celebrated the opening of the facility. Among many local, charitable causes Denise supports are the Rescue Mission, Akron Children’s Hospital/Mahoning Valley, Beatitude House, Youngstown Neighborhood Development and Angels for Animals,
      Now living in Tampa, Fla, Mr. D’s son Ed Jr., and his wife, Candy, recently contributed $2.5 million to Tampa General Hospital in its fight to treat COVID-19 coronavirus patients.
      Locally, Cardinal Mooney High School on Erie St. in Youngstown has been remodeled thanks to gifts of $5 million each from Denise and Ed Jr.
      “Through my friendship with the DeBartolo-York family, I can tell you that they are defined by their generosity, loyalty and commitment to their community,” WPG CEO Conforti said.
      The legend begun through the work-ethic and unstoppable will and determination of Edward J. DeBartolo Sr. will now be on permanent display at the Southern Park Mall in his hometown of Boardman, Ohio.
      Mr. D died Dec. 19, 1994.
      Among the many accolades given to Edward J. DeBartolo Sr. was the Presidential Medal of Freedom (the nation’s highest civilian award) in 1988 by President Ronald Reagan in recognition of his “significant endeavors and contributions” in the United States.
      Mr. D would frequently say “Foresight and imagination are the keys...to the future, hard work and determination will open the door.”
     
      PICTURED: Edward J. DeBartolo Sr. 1909-1994
      “I took chances a million miles out. I no
      longer have qualms taking chances.”
      The above quotation graces the owner’s suite
      at Levi Stadium in San Jose, Calif.
  Oct. 23 Community Day Will Celebrate Renovations At The Southern Park Mall  
  DeBartolo Commons Will Be Showcased:   October 14, 2021 Edition  
     A Community Day celebration, free and open to the public, will be held on Saturday, Oct. 23 to showcase the grand opening of the DeBartolo Commons four-acre, athletic and entertainment green space and event venue for the benefit of Southern Park Mall’s guests, tenants, and community neighbors and partners. DeBartolo Commons is a major portion of some $30 million in capital improvements begun at the Southern Park two years ago.
      In addition, Community Day will celebrate the addition later this year of several local tenants including The Bunker, Double Bogey’s Bar & Grill, and Steel Valley Brew Works, each of which will overlook and connect to DeBartolo Commons, collectively forming a go-to outdoor gathering space and place of connection and fellowship within the community.
      Community Day, from noon to 8 p.m., will also feature live music, crafts, food trucks and kids’ activities.
      “The transformation at Southern Park Mall, that observed its 50th anniversary in 2020, will strengthen its position as the hub of retail, dining and entertainment in the area,” said Lou Conforti, CEO and director of Washington Prime Group (WPG), that owns the mall. WPG has worked with the Boardman community and existing tenants throughout the two-year redevelopment project, that was made possible with the support of the staff and elected officials serving Boardman Township, the Boardman Local Schools, Mahoning County Commissioners and the Western Reserve Port Authority. “In addition, WPG is proud to partner in executing the Southern Park Mall project with local tradespeople affiliated with Ironworkers Local 207, LIUNA Local 125, Roofers Local 71, Carpenters Local 171, Concrete Finishers Local 179, Electrical Workers Local 64, Sprinkler Fitters Local 669, Sheet Metal Workers Local 33, Operating Engineers Local 66, Painters 476, Electricians 573, Plumbers & Steamfitters Local 396, and Cement Masons & Plasterers Local 179,” said Matthew Jurkowitz, vice president of development.
      Southern Park Mall was built by the Boardman-based Edward J. DeBartolo Corp. and first opened in 1970 with three anchor stores--- JCPenney, Strouss’ and Sears Roebuck. A unique feature was Cherry’s Top of the Mall restaurant that was located above the Strouss’ Department store.
      The redesign of the town center is the third, major renovation of the facility, including 1997 improvements completed by the Simon Corp., that acquired DeBartolo interests in the site in the late 1990s.
  LEGAL NOTICE  
  October 14, 2021 Edition  
     LEGAL NOTICE
      REQUEST FOR QUALIFICATIONS FOR
      ASBESTOS ASSESSMENT
      PRIOR TO DEMOLITION
      The ABC Water and Storm Water District intends to contract for asbestos assessment services which are required before the demolition of Market Street Elementary School located at 5555 Market Street, Boardman, Ohio 44512. Statements of qualifications should include information regarding the firm’s history, education and experience of owners and key technical personnel, the technical expertise of the firm’s current staff, the firm’s experience in performing similar work, availability of staff, the firm’s equipment and facilities as well as the laboratory that will be used, current Ohio abatement specialist or evaluation specialist license(s), references; any previous work performed for the Board of Boardman Township Trustees, and/or ABC Water and Storm Water District.
      Statements of qualifications should be transmitted by 3:00 PM, November 5, 2021 to:
      ABC Water and Storm Water District
      P.O. Box 3554
      Boardman, Ohio 44512
      or hand delivered to:
      Boardman Township Government Center
      8299 Market Street
      Boardman, Ohio 44512
      Attn: Jason Loree
      As required by Ohio Revised Code Section(s) 153.64-71, responding firms will be evaluated and ranked in order of qualifications. The project description is as follows:
      Asbestos Assessment Report: ABC Water and Storm Water District has acquired the Market Street Elementary School located at 5555 Market Street, Boardman, Ohio 44512. The school will be demolished in order to build a storm water facility that includes daylighting a tributary of Cranberry Run. The current AHERA report for the school building lists suspected asbestos containing material but shows no evidence of sampling of plaster, roofing materials, caulking, etc. The successful firm will be required to sample material, provide sample testing and provide guidance regarding abatement of same.
      The Statement of Qualifications must be submitted in the following format:
       •List of similar projects, with references. (2 page max.).
       •List of Sub-consultants, if any (1 page max.).
       •List of Project Manager and other key members (2 page max.).
       •Description of Capacity of Staff and their ability to perform work in a timely manner (1 page max.).
       •Description of Project Approach, (2 page max.)
      With Cover Letter, the submittal must be a maximum of only nine (9) pages, using 8 ½” x 11” single sided paper with a 12 point font and minimum 1” margins. Bind each submittal with a single staple in upper left corner only. Please provide seven (7) copies.
  LEGAL NOTICE  
  October 14, 2021 Edition  
     LEGAL NOTICE
      STATEMENT OF QUALIFICATIONS FOR PROFESSIONAL DESIGN SERVICES FOR FOREST LAWN STORM WATER PARK
      The ABC Water and Storm Water District intends to contract for profession design services for a stream daylighting and restoration project with in the Cranberry Run Watershed in Boardman Township. The project is located on the former Market Street Elementary School property, 5555 Market Street, Boardman, Ohio 44512. The project includes daylighting the captured stream, stream restoration, relocating a sanitary sewer and landscaping. Firms interested in being considered to provide design services should reply with a statement of qualifications no later than 3:00 PM on November 5, 2021. Statements received after this deadline will not be considered.
      Statements of qualifications should include information regarding the firm’s history, education and experience of owners and key technical personnel, the technical expertise of the firm’s current staff, the firm’s equipment and facilities, references; and any previous work performed for ABC Water and Storm Water District, the Board of Boardman Township Trustees, or other Mahoning County Governmental Agencies or experience with stream restoration, working with Clean Ohio, ODNR, WPCLF, and other grant funding. Firms may submit one (1) copy of the Statement of Qualifications.
      Statements of qualifications should be transmitted to:
      THE ABC WATER AND STORM WATER DISTRICT,
      P.O. Box 3554,
      BOARDMAN, OH., 44512
      or hand delivered to:
      THE ABC WATER AND STORM WATER DISTRICT
      I/O THE BOARDMAN GOVERNMENT CENTER
      8299 MARKET STREET
      BOARDMAN, OHIO 44512
      ATTN:JASON LOREE
  Three Serious Accidents At Intersection Since 2014 Factor In ODOT Decision To Spend $1.5 Million To Close Roadway  
  Trustees, Residents To Oppose Project:   October 7, 2021 Edition  
     Residents of the Forest Glen neighborhood who are members of the Forest Glen Homeowners Association and the Boardman of Boardman Township Trustees agreed they will oppose proposed changes to the intersection of Market St. at Shields and Brookwood Rds.
      Meeting last week, Trustees Tom Costello, Brad Calhoun and Larry Moliterno unanimously voted to oppose the changes as proposed by the Ohio Department of Transportation (ODOT).
      The state agency, in part, says because there have been 76 traffic accidents at the intersection (only three with serious injury) since Jan., 2014, it wants to spend about $1.5 million to close down Brookwood Rd. at the intersection of Market St. and create a cul-de-sac there.
      ODOT says “the improvements will address high crash frequencies.”
      But the Forest Glen Homeowners Association says the proposed changes “will not directly solve the safety issues claimed by ODOT.”
      About 30 members of the association addressed Trustees last week in opposition to the project, saying it will “increase traffic significantly...especially on Forest Hill Rd., Mill Creek Dr. and Newport Dr., streets that were not designed to handle significant traffic.
      “Significant pedestrian traffic, including young children in the neighborhood, would be at greater risk of injury by vehicle.”
      ODOT says the proposed project “Will modify access for some properties on Market St. and Brookwood Rd.” and the agency would require ‘property takes’ from some properties, including Hospice of the Valley and a gas station at the intersection of Indianloa Rd. and Market St.
      “A representative from the Real Estate Department will be in contact with affected property owners beginning Jan., 2022,” ODOT said.
      In a Sept. 21 letter to ODOT, Boardman Township Administrator Jason Loree said that township officials “received numerous complaint from residents concerned about increased neighborhood traffic if Brookwood Rd. is removed from the intersection.”
      Loree said that “constructing a cul-de-sac on Brookwood Rd. will increase traffic on Boardman Township maintained roads, [including] LeMans Dr., Mill Creek Dr. and Forest Hill Rd.”
      Addressing those at the township meeting, Trustee Calhoun said “There’s a hundred reasons were are against it (the proposed changes).”
      Calhoun called for ODOT to hold a public forum on the matter, saying to the Glen residents “They need to hear from you...You have a solution that maybe they didn’t have. We can try and facilitate that.”
      He added, “A better option is to abandon the entire project.”
      Trustee Costello told Glen residents “We will partner with you. We are against it.”
      Trustee Larry Moliterno suggested “We can reach out to State Rep. Al Cutrona on this matter.”
      Two days after last week’s meeting, Administrator Loree sent another letter to ODOT noting about 30 residents of the Glen spoke in opposition to the proposed closing of thru traffic on Brookwood Rd. and the construction of a cul-de-sac.
      “The concern is that traffic will be directed into the historic Glen neighborhood,” adding The Board of Boardman Township Trustees also wants to reiterate that the township is not, and has never been in support of this project.
      “The removal of Brookwood Rd. access from the intersection at Market St. will cause delays for our police and fire safety services and will place our residents in jeopardy.
      “Boardman Township can only support a ‘no build’ option, or an option that would relocated Brookwood Rd. to the north.”
      In 1997 the Ohio Historic Preservation Office named Forest Glen Estates as an Ohio Historic District. And in 1998, the United States Department of the Interior added the neighborhood district and each of its eligible homes to the National Register of Historic Places.
      Forest Glen Estates is an early 20th century planned residential subdivision of approximately 130 acres. Development began in 1923, and installation of streets and landscaping was completed by 1931. Because the neighborhood abuts the Lake Newport area of Mill Creek Park, the Forest Glen Estates development plan followed the urban and park design initiated by renowned landscape architect Warren Manning, who was then under contract with the Mill Creek Park Board of Commissioners.
      Members of the current Forest Glen Home Owners Association wish to preserve the integrity of the neighborhood, as it was originally developed.
  School Board Sets FY 2022 Appropriations At $66 Million  
  Approves Payment In Lieu Of Transportation To Charter, Parochial Schools:   October 7, 2021 Edition  
     Meeting last week, the Boardman Board of Education adopted a Fiscal Year 2022 appropriations resolution report in the amount of $66.801 million, including a general fund budget of $49.068 million.
      According to the district’s most recent five-year forecast, some $24.972 million of the system’s budget goes to salaries, while $11.173 million is consumed in fringe benefits.
      $2.273 million of the appropriations come from Covid-related American Relief Plan funds, while food service costs for the district are set at $1.499 million. Title I funding for disadvantaged students is reported at $995,300.
      Treasurer Terry Armstrong’s report to the school board reflected the district will see changes in revenues received through unrestricted grants-in-aid.
      “As the year progresses we will see a change in this line due to the implementation of the Fair School Funding Plan.
       “Funding that was received based on Average Daily Membership (ADM) included foundation revenue for students who attended non-public, charter schools and open enrollment.
       “A major change will be that this will no longer show up in a district’s ADM thus the per pupil funding will not be shown as revenue as we will get funded for students attending Boardman Local Schools,” Armstrong said, adding “This will be a net gain for Boardman as this will be off-set by lower expenditures for those students leaving the district that under the old school funding system resulted in costs that exceeded what we received for each student.”
      Affirming a decision made in August, the school board formally adopted a resolution saying that providing transportation to students who do not attend the school system as impractical.
      “It is recommended that the Board, after examination of factors as identified in ORC 3327.02, has declared by resolution that such transportation by school conveyance is ‘impractical’ and hereby agrees to pay the parent or guardian of said pupil in lieu of providing such service. Payment shall be based upon the reimbursement rate set by the Ohio Department of Education and shall not exceed the average cost of transportation per pupil in the state of Ohio,” an agenda of the school board’s meeting said.
      In August, the school board said the policy could affect transportation to “the Center for Adults and Children with Learning Disabilities, 118 West Wood St., Youngstown, Oh., as well as Cardinal Mooney High School, the Heartland Christian School, the Montessori School of the Mahoning Valley, Summit Academy. Ursuline High School and Youngstown Community School.”
      Approved for appointment to the system’s certified staff were Gianna DeToro, Ryan Mistovich and Victoria White.
      DeToro, intern psychologist, earned her bachelor’s and master’s degrees from Youngstown State University. She will receive a salary of $26,250, paid through the School Psychologist Intern Grant.
      Mistovich will be an art teacher at Glenwood Junior High School replacing Robert Sheldone. He holds a bachelor’s degree from Westminister College.
      White, an intern psychologist. Ms. White earned her bachelor’s from Youngstown State University and her master’s degree from Kent State University. She will receive a salary of $26,250,paid through the School Psychologist Intern Grant.
      At the meeting, the school board accepted the following donations:
      •Glenwood Middle School Makers Activities Account: $4,500 from the Steve Bendel Ditch Diggers Memorial Fund.
       •West Blvd. Elementary Library: $50 from Mary Eicher.
       •Center Intermediate School: $100 from Beverly Muresan in honor of Jennifer Pratt.•Center Intermediate School: $25 from Anne Kravitz in honor of Jennifer Pratt.
       •Center Intermediate School: $150 from Ken and Shirley Schaab; David and Phyllis Schaab; Dr. Kevin Schaab and Julie Skalma in honor of Jennfer Pratt.
       •West Blvd. Elementary Library: $150 from Waldene and Thomas Kane in honor of Sandy Saxton and Suzie Summers.
       •Sponsorship of kindergarten signs: $1,500 from the Boardman School Fund for Educational Excellence, a subsidiary of The Community Foundation of the Mahoning Valley.
       •Sponsorship of Yes Fest 2021 at Boardman High School: $4,000 from the Drug Education Officers of Mahoning County.
     
  NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING  
  October 7, 2021 Edition  
     The Boardman Township Board of Appeals shall hold a Public Hearing on Tuesday, October 19, 2021 at 7:00 PM, go to https://www.boardmantwp.com/zoning/board-of-zoning-appeals/ for further information for consideration of the following cases:
      APPEAL CASE AC-2021-41
      Ryan Pavlak, property owner, 572 Squirrel Hill Dr., Boardman, Ohio 44512, requests a variance from the terms of the Boardman Township Zoning Resolution, effective January 1, 2021, Article 6.01 Accessory Use Regulations (E) Use Specific Standards (9) Detached Accessory Buildings (b) to reduce setback from the front foundation line of the house from (30) thirty feet to (11) eleven feet. The property is further known as LOT 122 191.83 X 160 IRR HITCHCOCK WOODS PL #2, Parcel 29-101-0-107.00-0. Said property is zoned R1-A-Residential, in Boardman Township, Mahoning County, State of Ohio.
      APPEAL CASE AC-2021-42
      Cody McCullough, property owner, 8077 Deerpath Dr., Boardman, Ohio 44512, requests a variance from the terms of the Boardman Township Zoning Resolution, effective January 1, 2021, Article 6.01 Accessory Use Regulations (b) Decks (iv) to reduce the required rear property line setback from twenty five (25’) feet to fifteen (15’) feet. The property is further known as LOT 224 95 X 175 LAKE FOREST REP 4, Parcel 29-099-0-036.00-0. Said property is zoned R1-A-Residential, in Boardman Township, Mahoning County, State of Ohio.
      APPEAL CASE AC-2021-43
      Christine Dorsett, property owner, 121 Danbury Dr., Boardman, Ohio 44512, requests a variance from the terms of the Boardman Township Zoning Resolution, effective January 1, 2021, Article 6.01 Accessory use regulations (E) (20) (a) in order to raise hens on the property. The property is further known as LOT 259 60 X 162.44 IRR ALBURN RLTY CO PL 8, Parcel 29-061-0-294.00-0. Said property is zoned R1-B-Residential, in Boardman Township, Mahoning County, State of Ohio.
      APPEAL CASE AC-2021-44
      Haider Ali on behalf of Noureen Fatima, property owner, 428 & 438 E. Western Reserve Rd., Boardman, Ohio 44512, requests a conditional use from the terms of the Boardman Township Zoning Resolution, effective January 1, 2021, Article 4.08 (D) (10) Parking lot use for adjacent property & 4.08 (D) (12) vehicle sales. The property is further known as GL 31 DIV 4, Parcel 29-037-0-006.00-0 & 29-037-0-007.00-0. Said property is zoned GB-General Business, in Boardman Township, Mahoning County, State of Ohio.
      APPEAL CASE AC-2021-45
      Rick Cain of Adams Signs on behalf of Ashvin Yanjik, property owner, 5953 South Ave., Boardman, Ohio 44512, requests a variance from the terms of the Boardman Township Zoning Resolution, effective January 1, 2021,
       •Article 12.11 Permanent Signs in Non-Residential Districts (C) Permanent Freestanding Signs (1) for a 5’1/2” pole sign, 2’1/2” taller than allowed three foot poles or supports from the adjacent grade with landscaping to screen the view of the poles;
       •Article 12.11 (C) (6) (b) for an electronic message center not on a monument signs as required;
       •Article 12.11 (7) Table 12.11.2 for sign face of 247.2 square feet per side, 47.2 square feet over the allowed 200 square feet per side;
      The property is further known as LOT 3 646.78 X 546.72 IRR REPLAT OF LOT 3 & THE REPLAT OF LOTS 7-10, Parcel 29-020-0-305.01-0. Said property is zoned GB-General Business, in Boardman Township, Mahoning County, State of Ohio.
      Text and maps of the request may be viewed at the Boardman Township Zoning Office, 8299 Market Street, Boardman, Ohio 44512 Monday through Friday, between the hours of 8:00 AM and 4:00 PM, until time of hearing. Please call 330-726-4181 or email requests to tdavignon@boardmantwp.com.
      Atty. John F. Shultz, Chairman
      Boardman Township Board of Appeals
      Krista D. Beniston, AICP,
      Director of Zoning and Development
  LWV Voter’s Guide Provides Insight Into Candidates For Trustee And School Board  
  September 30, 2021 Edition  
     BY JOHN A. DARNELL JR.
      associate editor
      The League of Women Voters (LWV) has released its 2021 Voter Information Guide that includes information on interest to Boardman voters, including for Boardman Township Trustee and Boardman Local School Board. The information is non-partisan and comes directly from questionnaires submitted by candidates.
      On the ballot for Trustee are incumbents Brad Calhoun and Tom Costello, opposed by Tabitha Fitz-Patrick and Joseph Pavone.
      On the ballot for Boardman Local School Board are incumbents John Fryda, John Landers and Vickie Davis, opposed by Anthony Buchmann.
      Township Trustee Race
      Calhoun, 58, has served three terms on the Board of Trustees and notes he has extensive training in labor contracts and budgeting, as well as “a working relationship with many stakeholders.”
      Costello, 71, has served for 18 years as a trustee and says that service “has prepared me for the challenges facing Boardman.
      “I am proud of my ability to work with other elected officials to build support for community improvement.”
      Citing her “qualifications for office,” Fitz-Patrick, 34, says “Micro, macro and mezzo experience with policy and program development, implementation and advocation.” She says she is a licensed social worker with five years of experience.
      Pavone, 46, did not provide the LWV a direct response to his qualifications, instead referring the query to a social media site.
      Fitz-Patrick and Pavone both sought the office of township trustee two years ago and lost.
      Each candidate for Trustee was asked by the LWV about their priorities for Boardman Township.
      Calhoun responded his priorities are sound fiscal policies, maintain strong police and fire protection, improve road and infrastructure projects, protect the integrity of neighborhoods and continue to partner with the ABC Water District to secure grants to upgrade stormwater systems.
      “I am committed to serving this community and listening to their concerns while tasking our team leaders with finding solutions, Calhoun said, adding “Together we can make Boardman Township a proud community.”
      Costello said he has four priorities, including---
       •Continue to be fiscally responsible and live within our budget;
       •Continue to completely support both our police and fire departments, keeping them adequately staffed and equipped;
       •Work to improve road and storm sewer infrastructure projects;
       •Work closely with the ABC Water District.
      “All of these priorities can only be accomplished by working cooperatively as a team, “ Costello said.
      Fitz-Patrick suggests one of her priorities as a township trustee would be the installation of central air conditioning “in all Boardman school buildings,” as well as “more financial support for our schools,” while saying another priority is “Less taxes for homeowners.”
      Fitz-Patrick’s priorities also include flooding and sewer issues (Editor’s note: sewer issues are under the province of the county engineer), creation of emergency medical services (Editor’s note: that Boardman Township already provides), more financial support for Boardman Park, installation of a sidewalk on Southern Blvd., stretching from Western Reserve Rd. to Market St (Editor’s note: Southern Blvd. does not intersect with Market St. in Boardman Township); as well as creation of community gardens and “advocating for our residents and their needs.”
      Pavone says his priority is “listening and working with the residents will come first. Take the time to listen and explore different solutions to an issue.”
      Boardman Local School Board
      Fryda, 54, has served on the Boardman Local School Board for four years; while Davis, 55, has served on the school board since 2014; and Landers, 39; is a 12-year member of the school board.
      In citing his qualifications to serve on the school board, Buchmann responds “Tradesman. I believe I will bring uniqueness to the school board, showing those not ‘designed’ for college that there are great options that pay well without the extreme debt of college.
      “I am also an American citizen, a husband and father of teenagers.”
      Fryda points out his priorities for the school district include serving all citizens, support for a safe and positive learning environment in which students, parents, teachers and administration can witness the opportunity for all students to succeed in academics, athletics, art, technology and trades in the Boardman schools.”
      He says that fiscal accountability “is vital” and believes advocating for fair school funding “that benefits the taxpayers of Boardman.”
      Davis says she will continue “to stretch taxpayer dollars past their expiration date while continuing for fight the unfairness of public school funding at the state level.”
      She adds, “The role of a school board member is also to support the community around them. I will continue to support redevelopment and renovation plans of major investors and small business owners while keeping the Boardman school system the centerpiece of the community.”
      Landers says his priorities include continue advocation for the Ohio Fair School Funding plan, continue the evolution and improvement of school district communications to the community and the utilization of technology “and other methods design,” and “implement continued growth in in-person and online learning while supporting individual pathways to learn.”
      Buchmann says “the priorities that I believe that are important are safety, transparency, accountability and trades,” as well as “zero tolerance for bullying with a much more severe consequence for the person found to have caused the issue.”
      Buchmann also calls for “being more transparent when it comes to communication with the voters, especially before major decisions are made.”
      He says “kids need to learn more real life skills such as counting money and using a check register “rather than take classes that will do absolutely nothing for them in the real world.”
  School Fund For Educational Excellence Announces Changes To Its Board of Directors  
  September 30, 2021 Edition  
     The Boardman Schools Fund for Educational Excellence (BSFEE) announces two changes to its board of directors.
      Atty. Matthew H. Gambrel has been elected as Vice-President of BSFEE, and joins fellow officers Lynda Beichner, president; Michael Walston, treasurer; and Annie Sofran, secretary.
      A new member of the fund’s board is Kate Spires, a 2000 Boardman High School graduate who is currently employed as an architect with BSHM Architects, Inc. in Youngstown, Oh.
      The Boardman Schools Fund for Educational Excellence is a non-profit organization that awards teachers grant monies for classroom projects that go beyond the scope of those funded by the school’s educational budget. The fund has awarded over $75,000 since the group’s inception in 2009.
  ELECTION FORUM  
  Candidates Laud The Creation Of Stormwater Park :   September 23, 2021 Edition  
     BY JOHN A. DARNELL JR.
      associate editor
      Incumbents and challengers for seats on the Boardman Township Board of Trustees and Boardman Local School Board spoke about their candidacies on Monday night before some 70 persons at the Community Center in Boardman Park. The forum was sponsored by the Boardman Civic Association.
      Incumbents seeking re-election for Township Trustee are Thomas Costello and Brad Calhoun. They are opposed by Tabitha Fitz-Patrick and Joseph Pavone, both of whom soundly lost their bids for the same office two years ago.
      Incumbents for the Boardman Local School Board seeking another four-year term are John Fryda, Vickie Davis and John Landers. Their lone challenger is Anthony Buchmann, president of the McKinley Cigar Club and who serves as an alternate on the Boardman Township Zoning Board of Appeals.
      Each candidate was limited to three minutes in touting their candidacy, followed by just a few questions, for each candidate.
      Costello and Calhoun, noting they are members of a team of elected officials that also includes Trustee Larry Moliterno and Fiscal Officer William Leicht, said they will continue to work on projects that benefit the community.
      Among those projects cited were updated zoning codes, improved ISO ratings for the Boardman Fire Department, maintenance of township roads, and appropriate staffing levels in the police and fire departments.
      Calhoun said the fire department’s insurance rating had been elevated to place the community in the top 14 per cent of all fire departments in the country.
      “We have created a tactical emergency medical service team to render aid to the police and our community during unusual conditions,” Calhoun said, noting the Boardman Fire Department answers 5,000 calls a year (mostly for EMS services).
      Both Calhoun and Costello lauded the collaborative effort between Boardman Township, the Boardman Local School Board and the ABC Water and Stormwater Utility District to demolish the vacant Market St. Elementary School and create a passive park.
      Costello, who also serves on the executive committee of the Coalition of Large Urban Townships (CLOUT) in Columbus, said he is a fiscal conservative.
      “Serving on that executive committee, we are able to share our issues and seek solutions,” Costello said.
      Costello noted maintaining appropriate staffing levels in the police and fire departments is important to the overall well-being of the community.
      Fitz-Patrick said she is a physical therapist and a licensed social worker, who favored creation of EMS services funded by township monies, and improved accountability.
      She cited her priorities as flooding issues, police and fire department funding and community credibility, and indicated she favored creating a fund of public monies to help citizens impacted by drainage issues.
      Pavone opened his remarks noting that “customer service” was his top priority.
      “I think we can get better at customer service,” Pavone said, adding he believed township meetings should be scheduled at convenient times for residents.
      Pavone told those in attendance that “flooding will never completely go away,” and said that ABC Utility District was making efforts to mitigate drainage issues.
      But, he said he believed there should be citizen participation on the board of the utility district.
      Pavone labeled tax abatements for the Southern Park Mall redevelopment as “ridiculous” and he favored charging non-residents for police and fire services.
      Safety issues, Pavone said, included speeding on Glenwood Ave., Hitchcock Rd. and Applewood Blvd.
      Each candidate for Trustee was asked to name their top, three priorities, if elected.
      Costello said his main concerns were solutions for drainage issues, continuing to seek grant monies to supplement the township budget, and continued efforts to work with other agencies.
      Calhoun offered his priorities included infrastructure projects, like road resurfacing and maintenance, drainage issues and maintaining services of the police, fire, road and zoning departments.
      Fitz-Patrick and Pavone did not offer three, top priorities.
      Fitz-Patrick indicated a top priority for her would be safer sidewalks from the Southern Blvd. area north to the Youngstown city limits, and concerns with accessibility to the police and fire departments.
      Pavone said Boardman should become a city for “better control and ability to serve residents.”
      School Board incumbents Landers and Davis each said they supported collaborating with township officials to create a stormwater park on the Market St. Elementary School property, as incumbent Fryda expressed pride in closing the school, a concept “that had been discussed for 20 years.”
      Fryda called the creation of a stormwater park “a no brainer” as the project will help families whose homes flood, and will also save the local school district some $500,000 in yearly maintenance costs for the property.
      Buchmann offered, “I’m the crazy guy. I would like to see a private company come there and build a trade school.”
      While Fryda, Davis and Landers said they did not favor open enrollment, Buchmann said he favored the concept because “It brings in extra money.”
     
  45th OKTOBERFEST OCT. 3 AT BOARDMAN PARK  
  September 23, 2021 Edition  
     The Boardman Rotary Club will hold its 45th Oktoberfest on Sun., Oct. 3 in Boardman Park. The event, first held in 1976, is an outgrowth of Boardman Township’s Bicentennial Celebration and was first held as a ‘Community Day’ to promote fellowship in Boardman Township.
      Today, the Oktoberfest has grown into the area’s largest one day arts and crafts event, drawing vendors from five states. Visitors to this annual fall celebration also come from neighboring states and often arrive by the bus load.
      This year Oktoberfest will cling to its roots and again present a one day art, craft and entertainment event. The Oktoberfest is the largest single raiser of the Rotary Club of Boardman that uses the proceeds to support programs and efforts throughout the local area. International needs are also addressed when the Rotary Club of Boardman partners with other groups around the globe.
      Gates will open to the public on Oct. 3 at 9:00 a.m. and admission is $5/person. The event wraps-up at 5:00 p.m.
  12 Students, 2 Staffers Test Covid Positive At Boardman Local Schools  
  September 16, 2021 Edition  
      12 students and two staff members at Boardman Local Schools have tested positive for COVID-19 since Sept. 1, according to the school system. Students who tested positive include one child at Stadium Dr. Elementary School, four students at Center Intermediate School, seven students at Boardman High School and two staff members at Stadium Dr. Elementary School. In each instance, the school system said it follows contact tracing protocols of the Ohio Department of health that are “required by the Mahoning County Board of Health...Under those guidelines...our staff members are required to wear masks inside our buildings,” said Michael Zoccali, principal at Stadium Dr.; Michael Masucci, principal at Center Intermediate; and Mark Zura, principal at Boardman High School.
  Market St. Elementary School Will Be Demolished To Make Way For Creation Of Stormwater Park  
  $3 Million Project Set For Completion In 2023:   September 16, 2021 Edition  
     BY JOHN A. DARNELL JR.
      associate editor
      Meeting in a special session on Tuesday night with Boardman Township Trustees, the Boardman Local School Board transferred some 14.6 acres of land behind the now vacant Market St. Elementary School for the development of a passive community park.
      The creation of the park is directed at improving drainage issues in the Cranberry Run watershed area and is expected to impact upwards of 1,400 properties that have experienced surface water issues during heavy rainfalls for more than 90 years.
      The ABC Water and Stormwater Utility District has been studying watershed issue along Cranberry Run for three years, concluding the Market St. property is an “exceptional location” for a stormwater park.
      Development of the stormwater park is expected to be completed by 2023 at a cost of some $3 million.
      Funding for the Forest Lawn Stormwater Park will be provided through a $500,000 Ohio Capital Grant, the ABC Water and Stormwater Utility District and with support from Boardman Township and the Ohio Water Pollution Control Loan Fund and Mahoning County Commissioners, Boardman Trustee Tom Costello said.
      “Once completed, we expect the new park will be a community asset,” Trustee Brad Calhoun said, noting the project will begin with the demolition of Market St. Elementary School.
      “This project will be the first of its kind in Mahoning County and the first in the state of Ohio that has a joint partnership between a local school district and a stormwater utility district,” Trustee Larry Moliterno noted.
      Once the school building is demolished, two 60-inch storm sewers will be removed and replaced with two open stream channels that are expected to provide flood mitigation and less erosive stream velocities.
      When the park is completed, a walking path will be created and the site will include an entry plaza, boardwalk overlook of the stream (including an arbor), as well as floodplain overflow areas for added stormwater detention.
      “This project will be largest single detention project in Boardman Township to date with the capacity to hold water storage volume equivalent to one football field with 9-feet of water on top of it,” Trustee Costello said.
      “This type of project is a once in a life time opportunity will help stabilize a neighborhood and bring much needed relief in the form of stormwater control measures to Boardman,” Township Administrator Jason Loree, who also serves on the board of the ABC Water and Stormwater Utility District, said.
  Boardman Beats Howland To Move To 3-1  
  Cam Thompson, Sean O’Horo Score Two TDs Each In 33-21 Spartan Win:   September 16, 2021 Edition  
     BY GREG GULAS
      Boardman News Sports
      bnews@zoominternet.net
      Terence Thomas made his long-awaited season debut, racking up 210 yards offensively, Sean O’Horo added 139 yards rushing and two touchdowns while the Boardman offense racked up 394 yards of total offense as the Spartans rocked the Howland Tigers, 33-21 last Friday at Boardman Stadium.
      In the annual Hall of Fame game, the crowd was treated to multiple plays that qualified as hall of fame-like as the Spartans moved to 3-1 on the season and 1-0 in the All-American Conference.
      Howland fell to 1-3 overall and 0-1 in conference play as Boardman won for the second consecutive year – they were victorious 54-19 a season ago – and improved to 13-3-1 in 17 all-time games played against the Tigers.
      Starting quarterback Anthony Hightower led the team early, completing both passes that he attempted for 47 yards before an injury sent him to the sidelines.
      Wearing No. 14 – in honor KeJuan Robinson who was injured against Massillon Jackson on September 3 – instead of his familiar No. 3 shirt, Cam Thompson also stood out as he added four catches – three from Thomas – for 182 yards and two scores to help pace the Spartans’ offensive attack.
      “We knew that we would have to put some points up tonight if we expected to win,” stated Spartans first-year head coach Seth Antram after the game. “We knew they’d come out, grind the clock and we’d have to take a couple shots early. We took them and were fortunate enough to complete them.”
      Antram says his senior class is a great group of leaders.
      “We have a great group of seniors, not just Terence but he adds a little spark,” Antram added. “Look at Anthony Hightower and what he did to get us here in this situation. He got his ankle tweaked earlier but Cam Thompson is coming along, getting healthy and peaking at the right time.”
      The Spartans got on the board on their opening drive of the game when Cole Congson, a standout on head coach Eric Simione’s soccer team, split the uprights from 35-yards out at 8:37 of the opening quarter for a 3-0 lead.
      Thomas made his presence felt once he hit the field, connecting with Thompson on an 82-yard scoring strike, capping a five-play, 84-yard drive with just 22 seconds remaining in the opening session to stretch their lead to 10-0 heading to the second quarter of action.
      Thompson appreciates the fact that he has two quarterbacks in Hightower and Thomas who can get him the ball when he is in space.
      His 82-yard touchdown pass from Thomas was a fitting ‘welcome back’ greeting from his classmate.
      “Terence definitely means a lot to this team,” Thompson stated about the Purdue University commit. “He opens up both our pass game and run game.”
      Luca Massucci’s 20-yard run at 9:48 of the second period cut the Howland deficit to 10-7 and when Matthew Coomer found the endzone from 10-yards away at the 2:22 mark, the Tigers authored their only lead of the game, 14-10.
      O’Horo, who was bottled up a good portion of the first half – he had just 40 yards on six carries – gave Boardman the lead for good with 57 seconds remaining before intermission after his eight-yard dash to paydirt gave the Spartans a 17-14 lead heading to the locker room.
      He played the second half in a No. 10 jersey after his familiar No. 6 shirt was ripped in the opening half of play.
      O’Horo posted 89 yards on 11 carries with a touchdown after intermission, noting their adjustment at the half helped everyone offensively over the final 24 minutes of play.
      “We just started to throw the ball a little more,” O‘Horo noted. “They would overload the box and it gave me all the room I needed, even if it was just a little bit for me to do my thing.”
      Being 3-1 after the first four games has been an added plus, according to O’Horo.
      “It’s big for us because we’ve delt with some adversity and conquered it,” he said. “Terence and Anthony are both shifty in the backfield. Terence has a little more throwing experience and that helps a lot. We commit too many penalties and must clean that up moving forward if we expect to finish strong. We have some other stuff to clean up but just making sure that we are doing our job on every play is the big thing.”
      Congson’s second field goal of the game, this time from 33-yards out, extended Boardman’s lead to 20-14 and when O’Horo scored his second touchdown of the game from 46-yards away at the 4:55 mark, the Spartans increased their margin to 27-14 heading to the final frame.
      Massucci’s second rushing touchdown, this time from four yards out, cut the Boardman lead to 27-21 with 6:47 left but Thomas found Thompson from 13-yards away with 1:14 left for a 33-21 lead that all but put the game out of reach for the Tigers.
      “They ran the ball well against us and grinded the clock, but we knew that they would,” Antram said. “They are a hard-nosed, physical football team. Obviously, we would have liked to have gotten a win last week but our goals remain the same. That is to go 1-0 each week and get better each week so today we are where we want to be.”
      O’Horo finished with a game-high 129 yards on 17 carries and two scores while Thomas added 75 yards on 10 totes and 135 yards though the air with two scores to pace the Spartans offensively.
      Thompson was on the receiving end of four completions for 182 yards, also scoring twice.
      Thomas is happy to finally be back and barking signals under center for the Spartans.
      “It was great,” he stated. “I just loved being out there with my teammates. I had some ups and downs with my knee but I am ready to be back. Being 3-1 and almost to the midpoint of the season gives us encouragement moving forward. It keeps us fired up because we play a tough schedule. We have a few things that we have to tighten up on defense and need to put the ball in the endzone more but we have a bunch of guys who can go out there and make plays and those are things that we will clean up in practice.”
      Woomer finished with 102 yards on 20 carries and a touchdown to lead the Tigers’ offense while Massucci scored twice and rushed for 81 yards on 16 totes.
      Tigers’ signal-caller, John Perry, was 5 of 10 through the air for 42 yards.
      The Spartans will conclude their two-game homestand when they play host to the East High Golden Bears on Friday at 7 p.m. at Spartan Stadium.
      They will then open a three-game road stand at Cleveland Benedictine (September 24), travel to Warren Harding (October 1) then conclude the stand when they meet the high-powered offensive attack of Ursuline High at YSU’s Stambaugh Stadium on October 8.
       GAME NOTES…In 17 all-time games between the Spartans and Tigers, BHS owns a 13-3-1 overall mark…The Spartans have won two in a row and 11 of the last 12 outings between the two schools…There has been one tie in the series, that coming in 1979 when the two schools battled to a 6-6 deadlock....Sean O’Horo paced the Spartan defense against the Tigers, finishing with 12 tackles....Boardman defensive coordinator Mike Popio also cited the efforts of Andre Freeman, Jared Mahood, Cam Atwood, Fernando Ortiz, Stephen Conti and Ashton LaBelle, each of whom had a tackles for a loss; and Isaiah Torres, who finished with two tackles for losses and a forced fumble....
      Boardman-Howland All-Time Series
      Boardman leads, 13-3-1
      1975 – Howland, 14-0
      1976 – Howland, 16-0
      1977 – Boardman, 13-9
      1978 – Boardman, 20-0
      1979 – TIE, 6-6
      1981 – Boardman, 27-14
      1982 – Boardman, 10-7
      1983 – Boardman, 14-7
      1984 – Boardman, 20-3
      1985 – Boardman, 43-7
      1986 – Boardman, 24-0
      1987 – Boardman, 47-0
      2017 – Boardman, 35-17
      2018 – Boardman, 31-17
      2019 – Howland, 27-24
      2020 – Boardman, 54-19
  Munroe To Leave Post At Board Of Elections After 30 Years Of Service  
  September 9, 2021 Edition  
      At a meeting of the Mahoning County Board of Elections held on Tuesday, Board Chairman Mark Munroe, of Boardman, announced he would retire by month’s end, September 30.
      Munroe first joined the board 30 years ago this past March when he joined Dennis Vitt, Mary Kathryn Smith and Don Hanni as a board member.
      Munroe commented: “l have seen many changes over the past three decades, including new voting systems, changes in election law, a reduction in precincts, early and no fault absentee voting and much more. There have been hearings, protests, challenges and lawsuits, but at the heart of it all was the board of elections working to run good elections that voters could have confidence in. My number one goal was to always conduct our business in such a way as to encourage faith and trust in the system. Nothing was more important.”
      “lt’s been 30 years, and this is my birthday month, so I thought it was a good time to step down.”
      Munroe says he plans to keep a busy schedule looking after a new granddaughter, nursing his 1976 MGB, and continuing to tinker with ham radio and improve his morse code skills.
  YSU Scholarship Established In Memory Of Mary Jo Monakee  
  September 9, 2021 Edition  
Mary Jo Monakee
     In honor of their beloved younger sister, Mary Jo, a scholarship at Youngstown State University has been established by her sisters, Renee, Gail, and Pamela Monakee, on behalf of the family. The Monakees grew-up in Boardman and attended Boardman High School.
      “There was no better tribute to Mary Jo than to have something in her name that will invest in someone’s future,” her sister, Renee, said.
      The Mary Jo Monakee Scholarship was established at the YSU Foundation for minority students at YSU, with preference given to Boardman High School graduates studying early childhood education or primary education. Applications for the award will be open in the 2022 academic year.
      Mary Jo was someone who wore many hats throughout her lifetime; a sister, daughter, aunt, business owner, wife, and later, an educator.
      She was born and raised in Boardman, Ohio, and attended Boardman High School, where Mary Jo was active in the marching band and was a majorette. She began her college education at YSU and completed her Bachelor’s degree in Business and Marketing at Florida Atlantic University, graduating Cum Laude.
      After college, Mary Jo moved to Los Angeles, California, and began an impressive 30-year advertising career. She was an account executive and traffic manager at leading firms and would become an executive vice president in her boutique advertising agency. She worked with clients such as Honda, Chrysler, Rockwell International, Weight Watchers, and Kawasaki. Clients at her agency included Reebok and Adidas basketball.
      At the age of 50, Mary Jo had a new calling and switched careers to fulfill a cherished aspiration. She returned to college to study early childhood education. She was excited and inspired by the minds of her young students and grateful to have the opportunity to help them begin to build a foundation for future educational success.
      The Monakee family considers it an honor to create a scholarship where Mary Jo’s journey began: In Ohio and Youngstown State University.
  Candidates and Issues Forum Sept. 20  
  September 2, 2021 Edition  
     The Boardman Civic Association will hold its annual Candidates and Issues Forum on Mon., Sept. 20 at 5:00 p.m. at the Lariccia Family Community Center in Boardman Park. The public is welcome. Candidates for Boardman Township Trustee and the Boardman Local School Board will be invited to the forum. They include incumbent Trustees Tom Costello and Brad Calhoun, who will be challenged by Jason Pavone and Tabitha Fitz-Patrick. Candidates for the Boardman Local School Board are incumbents Vickie Davis, John Fryda and John Landers. Also vying for a seat on the school board is Anthony Buchmann. Based upon social media posts by Fitz-Patrick, she doesn’t know the duties of a Township Trustee, posting at 11:10 a.m. on Aug. 24, “Boardman local schools should all be equipped with Central Air. If I become elected, this will become a reality.” The duties of a Township Trustee are not connected with the function of the Boardman Local School Board.
  School Board Moves To End Bus Transport Of ‘Non-Public’ Students  
  August 26, 2021 Edition  
     BY JOHN A. DARNELL JR.
      associate editor
      Meeting last week, the Boardman Local School Board declared providing transportation to students who do not attend the school system as impractical.
      In the declaration, the local school board agreed to pay a parent or guardian to transport their children to seven, different parochial and/or charter schools.
      “Payment (to parents or guardians) shall be based upon the reimbursement rate set by the Ohio Department of Education and shall not exceed the average cost of transportation per pupil in the state of Ohio,” the Boardman board said.
      According to the resolution, “school conveyance” was declared impractical to the center for Adults and Children with Learning Disabilites, 118 West Wood St., Youngstown; as well as Cardinal Mooney High School, Heartland Christian School, the Montessori School of the Mahoning Valley, Summit Academy. Ursuline High School and Youngstown Community School.
      Three certificated staff members were added to the system’s payroll---
       •Cristin Balale granted a one-year limited contract as a part-time music teacher at Robinwood and Stadium Drive Elementary Schools, replacing Laura Kotheimer. Ms. Balale received her bachelor’s degree from Youngstown State University and her master’s degree from the University of Miami, Florida.
       •Deborah Huck was granted a one-year limited contract as an ELL teacher at Glenwood Junior High School, replacing Sarah Holloway. Ms. Huck received her bachelor’s degree from Youngstown State University.
       •Ryan Mistovich was granted a one-year limited contract as an art teacher at Glenwood Junior High School, replacing Robert Sheldone. Mistovich received his bachelor’s degree from Westminister College.
      The school board accepted the resignation of Dominic DeLaurentis, high school music teacher.
      Two persons were named to the administrative staff of the district---
       •Patrick Kale was granted a one-year 261-day contract as supervisor of the Boardman Performing Arts Center (BPAC).
       •Karen Kanotz was granted a one-year limited half contract as assistant director of student services. The position is being paid from ESSER II (COVID subsidy) funds.
      In other matters Lori O’Heren was hired as a curriculum gifted coach at a rate of $25 per hour, not to exceed 29 hours per week (to be paid from Title IIA Funds), replacing Marilyn Scheetz.
      27 teachers were named as staff of the Spartan Academy (remote learning) at a rate of $25/hour. About 50 students have enrolled for remote learning for the 2021-22 school year, Supt. Tim Saxton said.
      Teachers named to staff the academy include Pam Choleva, kindergarten thru second grade English Language Arts/Social Studies; Marcy Hughes, kindergarten thru second grade Math/Science; Lisa Rucci, kindergarten thru second grade Phonics; Mark Lias, third thru fifth grade English Language Arts; Marcy Hughes, third thru fifth grade Math; Amanda Reiter third thru fifth grade Math/Science/Social Studies; Shannon Soles, third thru fifth grade Science/Social Studies; Jerry Turillo, sixth grade English Language Arts; Missy Brent, sixth grade Math/Social Studies; Lyndsay Donadio, sixth grade Science; Dana Saferek, seventh and eighth English Language Arts; Kelsie Harris, seven and eighth grade Math; Heather Moran, seventh and eighth grade Science; Lisa Anzevino, seventh and eighth grade Social Studies; Laura Kephart, ninth thru twenfth grade English Language Arts; Dana Saferek, ninth thru twelfth grade English Language Arts; Katie Tomko, ninth thru twelfth grade English Language Arts; Vanessa Reilly, ninth thru twelfth grade Math; Gianna Rohan, ninth thru twelfth grade Math; Alexis Drass, ninth thru twelfth grade Science; Rick Sypert, ninth thru twelfth grade Science; Heather Moran, ninth thru twelfth grade Science; Nicole Blaze, ninth thru twelfth grade Social Studies; Lisa Anzevino, ninth thru twelfth grade Social Studies; Mary Beth Shobel, ninth thru twelfth grade Spanish; Dale Duncan, kindergarten thru twelfth grade Special Education; and Ben Heflick kindergarten thru twelfth grade Special Education.
  MASKS ON: When Boardman Local Schools Open Aug. 30  
  August 26, 2021 Edition  
     The Boardman Local Schools Mask Policy has been upgraded to “mandatory” for all students and staff, effective on the first day of classes, Monday, August 30. All visitors to the buildings will also be required to wear masks during the school day. There is no mask requirement outdoors.
      Boardman’s mask policy is in place for the start of the school year, as a proactive measure to help prevent the spread of infection, as well as limit quarantines that greatly disrupt in-person education.
      “We have learned a lot from COVID and its impact on education over the last 18 months. Our parents have expressed, quite clearly, that they want in-person learning 5-days a week and at regular school times,” said Superintendent Tim Saxton.
      “With the release of quarantine guidelines, the only way to greatly reduce students being home for 10 days on quarantine is to have students masked or vaccinated. With under-12 not eligible for a vaccine and only about 40 per cent of students 12-and-over vaccinated, masks are the best defense against a student being sent home and losing valuable in-person instruction.”
      Boardman’s mask policy follows strong recommendations from national, state and local health organizations. The district will monitor and evaluate the policy for the first 20 school days, and revisit this decision toward the end of September.
     
  DAHLIA SHOW AUG. 28-29 AT BOARDMAN PARK  
  August 12, 2021 Edition  
     The Mahoning Valley Dahlia Society will sponsor their 17th annual Dahlia Show August 28-29 at Boardman Park’s Lariccia Family Community Center. The show will be open at 1:00 p.m. on Sat., August 28 and 10:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. on Sun., August 29. Dahlias in all colors and shapes, as well as designer arrangements will be entered into the show. Exhibitors from Ohio and surrounding states will be competing for prizes as well as the joy of showing their favorite flowers to the public. Society members will be on hand to answer questions about growing, caring and showing Dahlias and arranging them in design pieces. For questions about the show, visit the web at https://www.boardmanpark.com or call Harriet, MVDS show chairperson at 330-550-6342.
  The Parasite And The President  
  Scientist Defends The Naming Of Newly-Discovered Parasite:   August 12, 2021 Edition  
     PART 2 Of Series (PART 1 - 8/05/2021 Edition)
      When Dr. Tom Platt, a 1967 graduate of Boardman High School, named a parasite in honor of former President Barak Obama, it set off a firestorm of negative comments about the naming, prompting Dr. Platt, retired biology professor at St. Mary’s College in South Bend, Ind., to author and defend his action in the following ‘op-ed that was published in The Washington Post.
      (Final story of a two-part series)
      I named a parasite after Barack Obama. It was meant as a compliment
      I’m the scientist who recently made news for naming a new genus and species of parasite after President Obama. Before you accuse me of being some kind of hater, racist or worse — as plenty have — let me be clear: I absolutely intended it as an honor.
      I’ve had two species of parasites named after me, and I take great pride in the fact that colleagues thought my contributions to the field warranted this recognition. If I had named a new predator, say a jungle cat or bird of prey, for Obama, there would have been no question of my intentions. But most people have an unjustly negative opinion of the incredible — and, yes, beautiful — organisms that I have spent my life investigating.
      The problem seems to be in how parasites make their living. Animal lovers don’t find it off-putting that predators capture and dismember their prey to obtain the energy they require to grow, reproduce and feed their young. But because of the way parasites draw off some of the energy of their hosts to achieve the same ends, they are somehow seen as lesser forms of life — when, in fact, they can make their hosts better.
      Parasites are under constant attack by the immune system of the host; some parasites kill some hosts, some hosts kill some parasites. However, the hosts that survive possess immune systems that are better equipped to combat the infection and pass those attributes on to their offspring. Conversely, the parasites that survive the improved immune attack will pass those features on to their progeny. In many instances, a stalemate is reached whereby host and parasite coexist in a stable relationship.
      Baracktrema obamai belongs to a larger group of trematodes (flatworms) called “blood flukes” that inhabit the circulatory systems of their hosts. Each major group of vertebrates — fish, reptiles, birds and mammals (amphibians are curiously exempt) — has its own corresponding species of blood fluke. This includes the species that infects hundreds of millions of humans worldwide and causes the disease schistosomiasis.
      The life cycle of a blood fluke is daunting. Eggs pass from the host into water where they hatch and release a “miracidium” (a bit like a paramecium) that will die if it does not find its next host, a snail, within 12 hours. If it successfully penetrates a snail, the miracidium reproduces asexually and produces thousands of new forms called “cercariae,” which then leave the snail and have 12 hours to find the final host. For species of Schistosoma, that’s a human. For Baracktrema obamai, it’s a turtle.
      When the cercariae enter the blood stream of the final host, you would expect them to face rejection, like a kidney transplant from an incompatible donor. The host’s immune system is fully capable of “recognizing” this foreign organism and destroying it. But amazingly that doesn’t happen: Within 24 hours, the parasite develops a type of molecular cloak — eat your heart out, Harry Potter — that makes it invisible to the host. If that isn’t fantastic I don’t know what is. We know only the rudiments of how this occurs, but if we could understand it at the genetic and molecular level, it could have potential for improving transplant surgery.
      I can’t share all the incredible things that we know about parasites in this short space. Suffice to say they are amazing, beautiful and cool as hell. Anyone should be proud to have one named in his or her honor. I know I am.
      Comments
      Science nerds got this immediately. Discovering a new species gives you naming rights, by tradition, it’s usually a rare moment for a tiny bit of immortality in a field where honors for a career of dedicated, disciplined, and occasionally brilliant work are seldom public, and where you get to immortalize yourself in some tiny corner of the science universe.
      Taking that opportunity to name something after someone else, a respected mentor, leader in the field, or just something or someone you really like or admire, a mentor, colleague, former professor, is also a tradition, and an honor. It’s recognized as a pure class-act to do that.
      You also have to love that Prof. Platt takes MOST of the space in an article written under the pretext of explaining the naming honor that some might consider an insult, to expound and inform people about the amazing critters that he studies.
      Bear 100
      Cool! But you do realize that many hear won’t look beyond the terms Obama and parasite, right? You know, the ones who think the earth is flat and when you get to the edge, you fall off?
      Sunmarie
      I’d say based on the fact that a parasite can either kill the host immune system and or the host and that Baracktrema obamai develops a molecular cloak in 24 hour that essentially allows it to thrive without being detected, that the good doctor picked a perfect namesake for his new dsicovery
      BBC059
      This is a tough one. Inventing the toilet got Thomas Crapper immortality. Not sure I would hang that one on my “I love me” wall!
      NotPC2
      Mr. Platt, if I give you the benefit of my doubt at the very least your thinking was incomplete as was your explanation. Your detailing of the parasite does not explain why you thought this would be an honor for Obama. If you read the comments you can see that you gave the trolls something else to be stupid about. Name a few other people you have honored in this way.
      Concerned13
      Getting named after a discovery is considered an honor in any scientific community. This man’s field of expertise happens to be parasites, and in fact has a parasite named after himself. I doubt he was thinking about internet trolls when he did it, so maybe give him a break?
      Ryan Harte
      He mentions a favorite professor, and himself. It is a high honor for a scientist to name something that has existed for untold ages, and will continue to exist for many more, after any person, to live on after we are all gone. Look at the names of trees, bugs, planetary moons, etc. The challenge is for us to take a moment to see parasites in the same way an expert does -- as another source of important discovery and excitement. Once you see it from his point of view -- always a good exercise -- the honor is clear.
      Fairfaxvoter
      Wow, an actual thought invoking article in what has become a pathetic propaganda medium. To the author: Love your interests, don’t agree with your politics. I believe that certain virus that reach a balanced symbiotic state in the human body, such as std’s that position themselves at the base of the spine, actually have the capacity to influence subconscious behavior...actions which would result in their propagation.
      Julius Valdez
      In spite of his explanations, I would have preferred another term. Do you think Trump would provide those details when he uses that term to refer to the President or Hillary and their supporters?
      KAZ 75
      Well at least he didn’t call it a Democrat.
      Mike27
      So many cynics, too many keyboards...the article was fun, fanciful, and shows why this guy finds things to name, while so many comments show why some can only criticize what they couldn’t do.
      bumanchew
     
      PICTURED:  TOM PLATT, pictured, defended his naming of a parasite in honor of a former U.S. President, noting “Before you accuse me of being some kind of hater, racist or worse — as plenty have — let me be clear: I absolutely intended it as an honor. I’ve had two species of parasites named after me, and I take great pride in the fact that colleagues thought my contributions to the field warranted this recognition.
  13-Year-Old Boy Tells Police He ‘Can’t Help But Do Bad Things’ After Car Pursuit That Reached Speeds Of 100-Miles-Per Hour  
  Out For A Stroll When He Found An Open Window:   August 12, 2021 Edition  
     BY JOHN A. DARNELL JR.
      associate editor
      A 13-year-old, south-side Youngstown boy, a reported runaway and driving a stolen car, faces a battery of charges after leading Boardman police in two pursuits shortly after midnight on Mon., Aug. 9, including one chase that reached speeds of more than 100 miles-per-hour.
      According to police, upon his capture, the boy was un-phased when he was advised he could have seriously hurt someone, and he wasn’t worried about going to the Juvenile Justice Center, and he said he “can’t help himself, but do bad things.”
      Nicholas Wilson, 13, of 1438 East Florida, Youngstown, told police his plan was to “joyride” in the stolen car.
      Wilson was driving a Nuick Verano that Ptl. Phil Merlo said had just been stolen from the Boardman Auto Mall, 5328 Market St.
      Ptl. Evan Beil said he was at a church parking lot at Buena Vista and Market St. when he observed a vehicle traveling at an extremely high rate of speed and with no visible registration.
      Officer Beil began to chase the car noting “I accelerated to approximately 100-miles-per-hour, however the car was continuing to pull away.”
      Due to the high risk of the pursuit (that lasted about a half-mile), Officer Beil terminated the chase and pulled into a parking lot to write a report. About ten minutes later, he heard a grinding noise he described as a car driving on a flat tire.
      The policeman then observed the same car he had been chasing turn off Roche Way and head north on Market St.
      “The right front tire was completely gone and the car was riding on the rim,” Officer Beil said, adding the car turned onto nearby Washington Blvd. where the driver began to flee on foot.
      After tripping in a ditch, Wilson was apprehended, calling Officer Beil “a bitch.”
      Wilson told police he was “out for a stroll” when he found an open window at the Auto Mall, “so he climbed inside and began to look around.”
      Wilson told police that he used a stolen set of car keys to steal the Buick off the lot and had just driven away after committing the burglary when police tried to stop the car he was driving.
      “It should be noted Wilson had a vacalier attitude during the whole ordeal as he was laughing about what had transpired,” Ptl. Beil said, adding “He was bragging about how he was driving over 100-miles-per-hour and the only reason he was caught was due to him getting a flat tire and running out of gas.”
      Wilson faces the following charges---breaking and entering, possession of criminal tools, receiving stolen property, obstruction, resisting arrest, unruly juvenile, no valid driver’s license, failure to display license plates and operation of a motor vehicle in willful or wanton disregard of the safety of persons or property.
      Police spoke with Wilson’s legal guardians/grandparents, Earl and Jean Moss, who confirmed his identity.
      After booking, Wilson was lodged in the Juvenile Justice Center pending his court date.
  The Parasite And The President  
  1967 Boardman High School Graduate Authors Book About Life In Parasitology And Higher Education:   August 5, 2021 Edition  
     In 1967, Tom Platt graduated from Boardman High School and as he says “My life is devoid of any ill-treatment by family, teachers, clergy, or anyone else.” Platt went on to a career in parasitology and is now a professor emeritus at St. Mary’s College in South Bend, Indiana, where he served for 28 years in a career where he traveled extensively in search of new species of parasitic worms, from Costa Rica to the far-flung reaches of Australia and Malaysia. His love of turtles and their parasites led to the discovery of 30 new species, 11 new genera, and international recognition for his work, including his discovery of a new genus and species of trematode that he named in honor of the 44th USA president and his fifth cousin, Barack Obama. The story of Baracktrema has been picked up by over 200 news outlets worldwide, providing a fitting swansong to an illustrious career revisited in his part-personal and part-scientific memoir, entitled “Small Science: Baracktrema Obamai and Other Stories of a Life in Parasitology & Higher Education.” Following are excerpts from Pratt’s book from a chapter entitled “The Parasite and the President.” Platt says “I am a parasitologist: not a psychotherapist, parapsychologist, physical therapist, or other occupations with nominally similar-sounding names. I study parasites, and I have for nearly half a century. When asked what I do by someone I’ve just met, and they stare blankly when I share my occupation, I follow with, ‘If you take your dog to the vet to get it wormed, I study the worms.’ Responses range from the understated, ‘Well, I guess somebody’s got to do it,’ to facial expressions implying a note of disgust. I have been on the receiving end of both. However, either reaction almost invariably turns to curiosity. Most people have encountered parasites: ticks on a dog, fleas on a cat, pinworms in a (friend’s) child, or something more exotic, and they have questions. Nobody wants to be in a car wreck, but most folks slow down to look. Same for parasites.”
      The Parasite And The President
      On September 8, 2016, a Thursday, the Journal of Parasitology issued a press release announcing the publication of an article describing a new genus and species of parasite named in honor of the President of the United States, Barack Obama.
      I discovered the worm, a digenetic trematode, while on sabbatical at the Universiti Putra Malaysia in 2008. It inhabits the blood vessels of the lungs of two species of turtle endemic to Southeast Asia: Cuora amboinensis (the Asian box turtle) and Siebenrockiella crassicollis (the Black Marsh turtle). As the discoverer of this new organism, I had the honor of the christening, bestowing the name for the new creature according to the rules established by Carl von Linné, or Linnaeus.
      The name given to this new addition to Earth’s bestiary? Baracktrema obamai.
      Why the lag of eight years between the discovery of the new worm and its formal description?
      I fully appreciated the importance of my find almost as soon as I saw it. Nothing I had seen in the past quarter-century was remotely similar. It was a new genus and species. When my stay in Malaysia concluded, I returned to Saint Mary’s and began staining specimens and mounting them on slides for microscopic examination. My initial analysis of the “lungworm” confirmed what I had suspected from the beginning. It belonged in the family Spirorchidae (these are the turtle blood flukes, or TBFs, and will loom large as this story unfolds); however, it differed from all the other genera described. I began attempting to elucidate the form of the various organs and organ systems and measuring them for formal publication. I was excited! The basic morphology of trematodes is well known, and I was eminently familiar with the variations present in TBFs.
      The worm’s anterior end was straightforward: an oral sucker surrounded the mouth; a short esophagus led to a single cecum or intestine that ran almost the entire length of the body before terminating near the posterior end of the worm. Typically, trematodes have two blind cecae, but a single cecum evolved independently on numerous occasions across the families of flukes. The vitellarium, an organ that produces nutrients for the developing egg, surrounded the cecum. The testis was elongate, and the ovary compact. All of these structures were clearly visible in my specimens. Near the posterior end of the animal, a cirrus sac was present. The cirrus sac houses an eversible cirrus (analogous to the penis but turns inside out during copulation---ouch!).
      Most trematodes are hermaphrodites possessing both male and female reproductive organs. The genital pore, the site for both copulation and egg release, was located near the worm’s posterior tip. The big problem was between the ovary and the genital pore. The area housed a complex array of ducts, tubes, and sacs I could not decipher. Over the next six years, I examined these worms between my teaching duties, supervising undergraduate research, and working on other research projects. I was never satisfied.
      I fully understood how all the tubes and sacs connected and their role in this fascinating creature’s reproductive life. I was stumped for one of the few times in my professional career, I could not work out a trematode’s anatomy, and I wouldn’t publish something I was only guessing at. I planned to retire at the end of the 2014–15 academic year and didn’t imagine these specimens would yield their secrets to me.
      On the other hand, not seeing this through to completion was not an option. It just wasn’t going to be me who carried it across the finish line. I had to find somebody smarter, with better equipment, and the knowledge to complete the investigation.
      The choice was easy. Stephen A. ‘Ash’ Bullard, Auburn University, is a generation behind me in age and a generation ahead of me in knowledge and technique. Ash is an expert on the Aporocotylidae (fish blood flukes), which bear many similarities to their cousins found in turtles.
      He was the perfect choice to crack the problem I was unable to solve. Ash’s response to my inquiry was an enthusiastic and unqualified “Yes!” Then he surprised me by handing the work over to a graduate student interested in turtle parasites. I was skeptical, but Ash assured me the student showed great potential. His name was Jackson Roberts.
      With a sigh of relief, I packed all the material in several boxes and shipped them [to Auburn].
      I turned to the task of cleaning out my office and laboratory in preparation for retirement.Occasionally, in films and on television, a person is shown retiring from their job after many decades of service. They walk past offices and cubicles saying goodbye to colleagues carrying a single cardboard box with a few pictures, plaques, and maybe a plant peeking over the top edge. I don’t know if this portrayal is accurate, but leaving academic life is orders of magnitude more challenging. During my 45 years as a graduate student and faculty member, I accumulated over 1,000 books, 5,000 reprints (individual copies of articles), files on students, rough drafts of manuscripts, and voluminous correspondence. There were also thousands of microscope slides of worms from research projects, not to mention vials of worms (mostly nematodes) not typically mounted on slides. Deciding their fate would take the bulk of my last sabbatical during the fall of 2014. I had to cross-check information on the slides with my records, and label them for deposit in an accredited museum. I examined files individually to determine what to keep, what to recycle, and what to shred, as many contained potentially sensitive information.
      The books were the hardest to let go. I don’t know any academic of my generation who doesn’t love books. Books mark the history of our lives, our development as scientists and scholars. Many people take them home, but our house was small and already overburdened with books. I planned to continue to do research on a limited basis after retirement, so anything related to those projects stayed. What to do with the rest posed a problem. I wanted to put them in the hands of people who would use them. The sorting process was slow because of the memories many of the volumes invoked. I could recall when, where, and why I purchased most of them. I was erasing my past one volume at a time. I kept about 100 and decided which friends, colleagues, and former students might like the rest. I found homes for the vast majority of them, and I trust they will serve their new owners well.
      As the semester wore on and I was nearing the end of the big ‘sort,’ I checked with Ash to see how Jackson was doing. Within days, Ash sent a photograph of Jackson holding multiple sheets of 8 × 11-inch paper taped together, forming a 3 × 4-foot canvass with the preliminary drawing of our worm.
      I was relieved to see that my interpretation of the byzantine network of tubes and sacs was about 90 per cent correct. Jackson clearly and convincingly sorted out the rest. It finally made sense.
      After some fine-tuning, the manuscript was ready to be sent out for review; however, the worm still did not have a proper Linnaean binomial. Although I would not be the first author on the paper — that honor was Jackson’s — I did, as the person who discovered this creature, have “naming rights.”
      My choice was to name it for a relative. The name? Baracktrema obamai. Why? Why name a new parasite after President Obama?
      My cousin, Doug Toot, and his wife, Lola, are serious amateur genealogists and discov-ered our family connection to the 44th president through a gentleman who resided in Pennsylvania in the late 1700s named George Frederick Toot. He is my fourth great-grandfather and President Obama’s sixth, making us fifth cousins, twice removed.
      The primary rule for naming new species is that the binomial must be unique. No other animal can have the same name, the name must be in Latin (or Latinized), and the two names must agree in number and gender.
      Since President Obama was part of my ‘extended’ family, I followed a tradition established early in my career. Having a species named after you is an honor. I have two species and a genus named for me. I was touched my colleagues thought my contributions to the field sufficient to warrant public recognition. I voted for Obama twice and felt he did an admirable job as president during his two terms. Naming this unique and beautiful organism would be, in my mind, a tribute to his legacy.
      I finally screwed-up my courage and sent Ash my proposal. The initial response from Auburn was lukewarm. Jackson grew up in Tennessee, and many of his relatives were not fans of Obama. Both Ash and Jackson finally indicated their assent, but I sensed a level of discomfort. Ash is a friend. Although I didn’t know Jackson personally, I didn’t want to force either of them to do something they might find problematic, either personally or professionally. I told them if they didn’t want to use the name for any reason, I would change it. I didn’t have an alternative in mind, but I would think of something.
      After a brief interlude, they both decided, “What the hell, let’s see what happens.” We sent the manuscript to the Journal of Parasitology for review and possible publication. The reviews were positive and recommended publication. One reviewer suggested we should not name the organism after a prominent politician without permission.
      I expected Baracktrema obamai might raise some eyebrows. Hell, I was hoping it would. Ours wasn’t the first organism named in Obama’s honor. It wasn’t even the first parasite. None of them caused a kerfuffle as far as I knew; why would one more? I did not attempt to contact the White House. Better to seek forgiveness than ask permission.
      In April, [my wife] Kathy and I traveled to Ft. Mill, South Carolina, for the meeting of the Southeastern Society of Parasitologists. My primary reason for attending was to meet Jackson and the other members of Ash’s lab. Jackson was a delight. A large, bear-like young man several inches taller and more than a few pounds heavier than I. We immediately bonded and fell into conversation about our backgrounds in and outside the discipline. Jackson attended college in Tennessee and played baseball in high school and college. We had a great time over the two and a half day meeting, which made the 1600-mile round trip more than worthwhile.
      The April and June issues of the Journal of Parasitology passed with no sign of our paper. It had to be August. In the middle of the month, I received an e-mail from Peter Burns, the liaison between Allen Press and the Journal of Parasitology. The journal would issue a press release heralding the publication of Baracktrema obamai.
      A few days later, I received a second e-mail from Peter with a series of questions regarding my motivation for naming a parasite after the president. I was puzzled because the formal description of a new organism contains a short section entitled “Etymology,” which explains the derivation of the chosen name. We clearly indicated my familial connection to the president and were naming it in his honor. There could be no doubt we had no intention of disparaging Mr. Obama. I didn’t realize my answers (and those of my co-authors) would be crafted into a press release.
      Most of the questions centered on the negative view many people had of parasites, and was this really an honor? I thought this a strange question coming from a journal devoted to the study of these organisms. I suspect they wanted to make sure I was on record stating my motives were pure. They probed the family relationship and any significance to the parasite’s Malaysian origin (the answer was No).
      There was one question I thought was a bit strange: Does something about the new species, especially its physical characteristics, remind you of Obama?
      I thought about this for a moment and wrote: “I should note this seems the equivalent of when Barbara Walters asked her interviewees what kind of animal or tree they would be — a little silly.” With that preamble, I concluded, “The worm is long, thin, and cool as hell!”
      [My wife] and I planned a trip to New York City for ...a working vacation. We both love Broadway, and I planned on doing some research in the archives of the American Museum of Natural History for a paper on a dispute between several prominent parasitologists at the beginning of the 20th century. Kathy would spend time with a high school friend, Karen Pontius, who lives in the city, and we looked forward to attending plays in the evening. I learned the press release would appear while we were in NYC. Not an ideal time.
      I don’t have a cell phone. I have nothing against technology, and I am not a Luddite. I don’t need one. I spend most of my days either in my office at Saint Mary’s or at home. There are landlines in both places. When I travel, Kathy is with me, and she has a phone for directions and emergencies. Only this time, she wouldn’t be. I would be at the museum, and Kathy would be touring The Big Apple with Karen. I gave the journal my wife’s number as my contact...An inelegant solution to the problem, but it was the best I could do.
      September 9 was a beautiful day, warm and a bit breezy befitting late summer. The stroll from our rental on the upper eastside through Central Park to 79th and Central Park West was a glorious way to begin an eventful 48 hours. I arrived at the museum when they opened, stowed my backpack in a locker as required, and introduced myself to the librarian who would assist me during my visit. I gave her the information I needed for my project, and she headed for the stacks. I arranged my supplies: a pen, mechanical pencil, paper, and a tablet computer (to photograph documents if necessary). I wanted to examine the letters and manuscripts of Horace Wesley Stunkard, a former research associate of the museum and faculty member at New York University whom I met at my first parasitology meeting over four decades earlier. I was investigating a controversy regarding the early history of the family Spirorchidae: the same family now containing the new genus and species, Baracktrema obamai.
      I began plowing through the boxes of material the librarian delivered from the stacks. Because of the limited amount of time available, I made judgments of what to examine in detail rather quickly.
      In mid-afternoon, my world turned upside down. The librarian told me my wife called and needed to speak to me immediately. Fortunately, I was the only person working in the archives, and the staff granted access to their phone.
      Kathy wasn’t in full panic mode but close. She received calls from reporters who wanted to talk about the article. She had names and numbers for the Associated Press and Philadelphia Inquirer. I jotted them down.
      Both focused on the fact that I named a parasite for the current (and generally popular) president; parasites are regarded as among the lowest forms of life (obviously, I did not concur).
      Was this really considered an honor? I reaffirmed my admiration for President Obama and highlighted our familial connection. I shared that I named a parasite (from the eye of a turtle) for my father-in-law and conveyed my life-long dedication to the field and my love of the organisms. I felt I acquitted myself reasonably well. Kathy, Karen, and I met for dinner. We ordered, and I provided a recap of the interviews. We had purchased tickets to see The Marvelous Wonderettes playing at the Kirk Theater on 42nd Street, and the conversation turned to other topics as we ate.
      During dinner, I silently weighed my options. Should I attend the play or let Kathy and Karen go while I returned to our rental to see if there were any more inquiries I needed to address? My laptop was there, and I knew I had internet access.We came to New York to see plays. When dinner concluded, we headed to the subway and arrived at the theater about 45 minutes before curtain...
      I began to wonder if I had done something incredibly stupid. I never sought the limelight. I spent most of my days alone in my office and laboratory. I hoped for some modest recognition, but a few friends suggested Baracktrema was going “viral.”
      I wasn’t prepared for what was coming. Saturday was beautiful. We planned a trip to Brooklyn to visit the son and daughter-in-law of dear friends from South Bend, Bob and Ann Cope...I had a second objective in mind. The carousel from my hometown amusement park, the now-defunct Idora Park, had been purchased, moved to Brooklyn, and restored to its original condition.
      I spoke with the reporter from The Chronicle. Her approach to the subject was a bit different. She was interested in reviewing all the flora and fauna named in honor of President Obama. I also received a rather frantic note from Gwen O’Brien, the Media Relations Director at Saint Mary’s. She caught wind of what was happening and wanted to coordinate my interactions with the press.
      [My] story had gone viral and appeared in media outlets around the globe. Most made light of the “squirmy honor” but clearly indicated I was sincere in my tribute to President Obama.
      Conservative papers and bloggers were not as kind, noting the gesture was fitting as in their minds, Obama was a parasite — or worse. In this age of social media, “trolling” is a part of daily life for many people. However, my experience was almost nil as I had no online presence: no Facebook, Twitter, or Instagram. I received two e-mail messages from liberals con-demning my action.
      During our meeting, Gwen shared that KABC radio in Los Angeles wanted to do a live interview the following morning and asked if I was interested. I said, “Yes.” I was curious that Gwen hadn’t mentioned the South Bend Tribune, our local paper, or any local television stations. She indicated more interest in national and international coverage. I argued we should do everything possible to get Saint Mary’s name in front of the local community as we suffer from living in the shadow of the Golden Dome, i.e., the University of Notre Dame.
      Gwen agreed to contact local reporters. She was good to her word, and the local CBS affiliate, WSBT, would send a reporter later in the day, [and that was] Kaitlin Connin [who] fit the mold of a modern newscaster: young, attractive, and very bright.
      Kaitlin arrived with a cameraman and suggested we chat a bit before starting. I gave her a quick tour of the newly renovated Science Hall and shared some personal history and my career in biology. She and her assistant set up in one of the new laboratories, positioned me on a stool, and checked the lighting and sound levels. The interview was professional and straightforward.
      As Kaitlin was packing to leave, she indicated the story would air at 6:00 p.m. I missed the live broadcast due to a prior commitment. When Kathy and I returned home, I fired up the computer and searched for the clip online. I couldn’t find it, but I did locate the transcript. I was pleased with the flow until I got to the section on our shared ancestor, the connection that prompted me to name the new worm after President Obama.
      Kaitlin’s article quoted me saying our common ances-or’s name was George Frederick Smith, not George Frederick Toot. I nearly fell out of my chair!
      How could she have made such a horrific mistake? Or had I, in the stress of the moment, misidentified my fourth great-grandfather?
      I searched again for the video and couldn’t believe my ears when my video doppelganger uttered the name “George Frederick Smith.” I sent Katlin an e-mail noting my faux pax.
      Her reply? “Well, it isn’t the worst thing that ever happened in broadcast journalism. I’ll correct it in the print edition.” A charming young woman.The following morning, I waited in my office for the radio interview with KABC. At some point, I realized I didn’t know the ideological lean-ings of KABC or who might conduct the interview. Some of the press accounts by right-wing media were less than kind, and I thought, “Oh crap, this could be really, really bad.” Again, thanks to the internet, I located KABC online and was relieved to hear the mix of news, sports, and humorous banter associated with mainstream drive-time radio. A producer called and gave me some tips about what to expect. I heard the introduction and was live in Los Angeles. The conversation went smoothly; the on-air personalities had some fun at my expense and reined me in when I drifted into professor-speak. Six and a half minutes later, it was over. I said nothing untoward and, unexpectedly, enjoyed the attention.
      Press reports were snowballing; however, I was distressed by the derogatory nature of many of them. Even the articles reporting our naming as an honor to the president used modifiers like “dubious” or “squirmy” to indicate the public’s negative view of parasites.
      I decided to write a short piece with the working title of In Defense of Parasites. The words came easily, and within an hour, I had a 600-word essay.
      The question was, what next? This was probably my only shot at having my voice in the national press, so I went with “Go big, or go home.” It had to be either the New York Times or the Washington Post.
      The Times had done little with the story, while the Post published a substantial article with a picture of Obama.
      I went with the Post. I had zero expectation I would get a reply, let alone an op-ed in the paper of Bradlee, Woodward, and Bernstein. I searched the paper’s website for the appropriate editor and sent an e-mail explaining who I was, and asked if they would be interested in a short piece from my perspective.
      I was stunned when I heard back from Mike Larabee expressing interest in reading my “piece” but no guarantee to print it.
      Publication of a daily newspaper moves at warp speed compared to its academic counterparts. I was used to months, or more, from submission to print because the information in a scientific paper has relevance for years or decades. The life span of many news articles is the blink of an eye by comparison.
      The next day I received word the Post accepted my essay. After a thorough edit, the final draft entitled “I named a parasite after Barack Obama. It was meant as a compliment” (not In Defense of Parasites as I had hoped) appeared on Friday, September 15, less than three days from submission to print!
      Friends told me not to read the comments. I read all 100-plus: the good, the bad, and the vicious. People who disliked Obama continued their ignorant screeds. People who thought I was disrespectful to the president hammered me, but a few kind souls rose to my defense, demonstrating an understanding of what I did and an appreciation for the “beauty of life in all its forms.”
      Their thoughtfulness lifted my spirits.The week between the news release to the Washington Post article was a wild ride. Much to my relief, things settled down.
      I learned a valuable lesson; be careful what you wish for.
      I was surprised [that] I hadn’t heard from the South Bend Tribune. Then one of those coincidences of thought and action occurred. The phone rang. Margaret Fosmoe, the education writer for Tribune, was on the line requesting an interview. We arranged to meet at my office early the following week.
      We spoke for about 45 minutes, and I was photographed holding a drawing of Baracktrema.
      The following Saturday, the article appeared on the front page, below the fold. It was similar to others published over the previous weeks; however, Margaret posed an interesting question none of the other reporters thought to ask. After the standard “Have you heard from the White House?” (I had not), she asked, “What do you think Obama’s response was when he heard the news?” I thought for a second and replied, “If he did,” the professor said with a smile, “my guess is he shook his head in amusement and moved on to more important things.”
      I did not receive a call from the president or the White House. I suppose I fantasized it might happen, and I would have been delighted if Obama had reached out. I sent a copy of the Journal of Parasitology containing our article to the White House for inclusion in Obama’s Presidential Library---I received the standard postcard thanking me for my gift; a card mailed to thousands of people every year who send stuff to the president and first lady: plain, perfunctory, and impersonal. My 15 minutes of fame were over.
      Gwen O’Brien shared the results from a service the Saint Mary’s employed to follow reports of the college in various media---200-plus mentions, more than any other single event in St. Mary’s history. The paper brought nearly 10,000 unique visitors to the Journal of Parasitology’s website, more than the next 19 articles combined. I even got a nod from our campus security officers when I stopped by their office to renew my parking tag.
      And the response from the higher-ups at Saint Mary’s? Nothing! Not even an “Atta boy” from the Dean, Provost, or President. Their indifference was baffling, disappointing, and a bit hurtful.
      Do I regret my decision to “raise some eyebrows”? No. Nobody was hurt. I had a little fun and brought some attention to parasitology and the organisms to which I devoted the better part of my life.
      If Obama was facing a re-election campaign, I wouldn’t have done it. I do have a great deal of respect for the man as president, husband, and father. I would not have done anything to hurt his chances for a second term.
      The furor died down quickly, and Baracktrema obamai is still, I suspect, cycling through snails and turtles in Southeast Asia. However, the illegal turtle trade and habitat degradation may threaten the extinction of both hosts and parasite.
      Neither of the Obamas will live forever, but their name will as long as we are here, and there are folks like me who are fascinated by these genuinely remarkable and underappreciated organisms.
      (First of a two-part stories
      about The President and The Parasite)
     
      SMALL SCIENCE is a 268-page book written by 1967 Boardman High School graduate Tom Platt, the son of Ken and Jane Platt, who grew-up on Macachee Dr. It was published on June 16 and is available in paperback for $28. In the book, Platt provides perspectives on the places and people encountered along the way, details of interactions with wildlife, as well as interesting and accessible insights into parasite behavior in the external environment and with their hosts. ‘Small Science’ is an inspiring story of an unexceptional high school student’s path through college, graduate school, the academy, and a successful research career. The book is available on Amazon, or can be purchased through Kindle.
  Boardman To Receive $4.068 Million In Relief Plan Subsidies  
  August 5, 2021 Edition  
     According to the Ohio Association of Townships (OTA), Boardman Township is set to receive $4.068 million in funding from the American Relief Plan (ARP).
      The ARA provides additional relief to address the continued impact of COVID-19.
      After months of uncertainty, with townships unintentionally left out of original ARP bill language – due to definition inconsistencies for “non-entitlement unit of local government” (NEUs) – it was announced by the US Treasury in May that Ohio was one of eight states in which the state itself would determine ARP eligibility and the definition of NEUs. In late June, township eligibility was placed into first SB 111 and then HB 168; and after signature of HB 168 by Gov. Mike DeWine, townships in Ohio have finally and rightfully been confirmed for direct ARP funding as true units of local government.
      According to the OTA, eligible uses include:
       • Support public health expenditures, by, for example, funding COVID-19 mitigation efforts, medical expenses, behavioral healthcare, and certain public health and safety staff.
       •Address negative economic impacts caused by the public health emergency, including economic harms to workers, households, small businesses, impacted industries, and the public sector.
       •Replace lost public sector revenue, using this funding to provide government services to the extent of the reduction in revenue experienced due to the pandemic.
       •Provide premium pay for essential workers, offering additional support to those who have and will bear the greatest health risks because of their service in critical infrastructure sectors.
       •Invest in water, sewer, and broadband infrastructure, making necessary investments to improve access to clean drinking water, support vital wastewater and stormwater infrastructure, and to expand access to broadband internet.
      Half of the APR funding is to be distributed this year and half is to be distributed next year. The funding will be distributed through the Ohio Office of Budget and Management (OBM) by population.
      According to the OTA, other townships in Mahoning County set to receive ARP funding includes Austintown, $3.654 million; Canfield, $815,487; Coitsville, $137,852; Ellsworth, $221,129; Goshen, $323,785; Green, $316,348; Jackson, $254,335; Milton, $254,335; Poland, $1,24 million; Smith, $347,040; and Springfield, $668,628.
  Book Details Author’s Worldwide Search For Parasites  
  July 29, 2021 Edition  
     Tom Platt, Boardman High School Class of 1967, who later went on to earn his PhD in Parasitoloy, has just had a book, ‘Small Science,’ published. The book chronicles his
      personal life, as well as his travels around the world in furtherance of his research. Platt’s road to success was not initially smooth. Faced with a brutal tenure rejection at the start of his career, he was told that “You are not the type of person we want to invest in for the next 30 years.” After a brief stint in the business world, Platt bounced back in spectacular fashion by embarking on a successful 28-year career at Saint Mary’s College in South Bend, Ind. He traveled extensively in search of new species of parasitic worms, from Costa Rica to the far-flung reaches of Australia and Malaysia. His love of turtles and their parasites led to the discovery of 30 new species, 11 new genera, and international recognition. He provides perspectives on the places and people encountered along the way, details of interactions with wildlife, as well as interesting and accessible insights into parasite behavior in the external environment and with their hosts. The link to his book is https/worldscientific.com/worldscibooks/10.1142/12339
     
  Fireworks At Boardman Park Aug. 28  
  July 29, 2021 Edition  
     FIREWORKS WILL BE BACK AT BOARDMAN PARK on Sat., Aug. 28 when a concert at the Maag Outdoor Arts Theater will be followed by a Phantom Fireworks display. Details of the event are still being finalized and will be announced soon, the park’s executive director, Dan Slagle Jr., said this week.
     
  Road Resurfacing Projects Will Begin In August  
  July 29, 2021 Edition  
     Road resurfacing projects that will be get underway in August in Boardman Township include Oakridge Dr., from Applecrest to Mapleridge Dr.; Squirrel Hill Dr., from Jaguar Dr. to Silver Fox; Paulin Dr., from Walker Mill Rd. to Tamarisk Trail; Sheridan Rd., from
      Country Club Ave. to Mathews Rd.; Salinas Trail, from Rt. 224 to Stadium Dr.; Green Glen Dr., from St. Albans to a dead end; Banbury Dr., from Green Glen to Robinhood; and
      Robinhood Dr., from Banbury to a dead end.
  Cattle Baron’s Ball Will Be Aug. 13 At The Lake Club  
  July 22, 2021 Edition  
     The 15th annual American Cancer Society Cattle Baron’s Ball, ‘Denims and Diamonds,” will be held at the Lake Club on Fri., Aug 13, from 6:00 p.m. to 11:00 p.m. The ball is one of the Mahoning Valley’s premiere charity events, with tickets selling out each year and tens of thousands of dollars raised to fund the fight against cancer.
      This year’s honorees, chairs, event sponsor, and special guests include---
       •Honorary Chairs: Lauren Lindvig, Ron Flaviano, Fred Housel.
       •Medical Honorees: Kene Ugokwe, MD, and Jennifer Baird, MD.
       •Cancer Survivor Honoree: Jennifer Sayavich.
       •Special Guests/Pediatric Cancer Survivors: Brett Wilcox and Ava Timko.
       •Event Chairs: Carole Weimer and Annette Camacci.
      2021 survivor honoree is Jen Sayavich of Sweet Arrangements Florist, who has battled breast cancer as a young mother. The 2021 medical honorees are both also cancer survivors: Dr. Kene Ugokwe, a Mercy Health neurosurgeon, and Dr. Jennifer Baird, a physician with The Center for Women.
      Pediatric cancer survivors Brett Wilcox and Ava Timko, who were honored at this event in 2012 and 2013, have continued to be guests at the ball, providing all who battle cancer with pride and hope for the future.
      This year’s event will also recognize 2020 honorees, whose event was held virtually due to the COVID-19 pandemic.
      2020 honorary chairs were Patt and Doug Sweeney. Patt is the former health commissioner for the Mahoning County Health District and Doug is the former president of the Sweeney Chevrolet Buick GMC.
      The medical honoree of 2020 was Dr. Thomas Chirichella, a Mercy Health physician and surgeon, associated with the Mercy Hepatobiliary and Pancreatic Cancer Center.
      The Survivor Honoree of 2020 was Mrs. Robin Daprile, who sadly lost her battle to cancer several months after the Cattle Baron’s Ball aired in August, 2020.
      The Cattle Baron’s Ball will offer attendees a lively, western-themed party featuring gourmet cuisine, musical entertainment and dancing, live and silent auctions, and much more. Attendees are encouraged to don their favorite country/western denim along with some glitz for this “Denim and Diamonds” event.
      Entertainment will be provided by Leanne Binder during the 6-7 p.m. cocktail hour, and the K Street Band will provide entertainment for the balance of the evening. Returning for this year will be Dana Balash from WFMJ, who will serve as master of ceremonies.
      The event is made possible through the generous support of the presenting sponsor Mercy Health. Additional major sponsors include Hollywood Gaming; Komara Jewelers; The Muransky Companies; Simon Roofing; Richard and Susan Sokolov; and Sweeney Chevrolet Buick GMC.
      To purchase tickets, provide a sponsorship or auction items, contact the American Cancer Society at 330-318-4107, or kelly.sobotka@cancer.org or visit www.youngstowncattlebaronsball.org.
  Township Trustees Approve Body Cameras For Police Officers  
  July 15, 2021 Edition  
      Meeting on Monday, Boardman Township Trustees unanimously approved the purchase of body cameras for Boardman Police Department officers. Police Chief Todd Werth said the cameras could be in use within two months, and that his department has been developing rules and standards for the use of the cameras for several months.
      Policies have been developed and presented to the Mahoning County Prosecutor’s Office for review, Chief Werth said, adding that body cameras are important to law enforcement and “facilitate the collection of evidence, prosecution of suspects, and provide transparency.”
      On Monday night, Trustees approved a five-year service agreement with Watch Guard/Motorola for the body cameras at a cost of $216,000.
  24-Year-Old Man Shot During Encounter With Police Officer  
  July 15, 2021 Edition  
     A 24-year-old man was shot and wounded by a Boardman police officer early Tuesday morning on South Ave., near Mathews Rd.
      About 12:40 a.m., the officer saw a man wearing a trench coat and carrying a baseball bat while riding a bicycle along South Ave. near Mathews Rd. The officer stopped to speak with the man, and sources indicate the man came towards the officer.
      “I will be out with a male with a baseball bat,” the officer informed police dispatch. Moments later he requested a back-up and within 30 seconds, he announced ‘shots fired, man down.’
      The officer immediately went to provide life-saving measures to the man, as 14 police officers converged on the scene. The suspect reportedly brandished a knife and four knives were seized as evidence.
      Damian Cessna, 24, of 7059 West Blvd., #187, was transported to a medical facility within 14 minutes, He is charged with felonious assault.
      According to his Facebook page, Cessna is a graduate of Boardman High School and is employed as a stage set-up worker at Skull’Rz Bane band.
      Several police sources indicate
      His Facebook page notes---
       •About Damian: “Never give up. even when im down or depressed and say im giving up dont believe like most my freinds do a few that know me best know that i am unable to give and if i want something in life ill swear up and down im giving up but as soon as i get another chance im trying again even if i dont want to keep trying just because i want to accomplish it or die trying even though i say its hopeless im still trying again and to be honest not even i know why i keep trying against it all, but i do know something keeps me trying i just dont know what yet...”
  Akron Children’s Hospital Announces Plans To Expand Emergency Department  
  Facility Will Expand From 9,600 sq.-ft. to 34,700 sq.-ft.:   July 15, 2021 Edition  
     Akron Children’s Hospital Mahoning Valley will be expanding the emergency department on its Beeghly campus and has received a $1 million gift from Leonard J. ‘Lenny’ Fisher, CEO of Handel’s Homemade Ice Cream and Yogurt, to help support the project.
      The donation has been recognized with the naming of the Leonard J. Fisher Family building. Construction on the project is expected to begin this fall with an anticipated spring 2023 opening.
      In Oct., 2020, Fisher was recognized by the Boardman Civic Association as its Business Person of the Year.
      “I am pleased to support such an important initiative in the Mahoning Valley,” Fisher said. “The health of our children is so important, especially in today’s climate. And providing support for the emergency department, which has seen explosive growth, is a way that we can help impact the community for generations to come.”
      Since the opening of the Beeghly campus in December 2008, there have been over 348,000 visits to the hospital’s emergency department. The current facility has the capacity to see 80 patients per day, but the department regularly cares for well above that almost daily.
      The new facility will increase the emergency department’s square footage from 9,600 to 34,700. The emergency department will feature 23 treatment rooms designed with input from patient families and staff.
      “The need to expand this department is critical,” said Grace Wakulchik, president and CEO of Akron Children’s Hospital. “Mr. Fisher’s generous gift is allowing us to get the fundraising for the expansion off the ground. We are so grateful for this support and for his long-time advocacy for children’s health care and Akron Children’s Hospital Mahoning Valley.”
      In addition, this gift will help fund three behavioral health rooms specially designed to take patients who are facing emotional and behavioral emergencies. The current department has one such room, which is often occupied.
      “Our expanded emergency department is a major investment in the Mahoning Valley community and continues to build on the commitment we began when we opened the campus in 2008,” said Paul Olivier, vice president of Akron Children’s Hospital Mahoning Valley. “It is through the generosity of donors, like Lenny Fisher, that makes projects like this possible.”
      “While we are off to a great start with this generous gift from Mr. Fisher,” chik said. “We still have funds to raise. The generosity of the Mahoning Valley is unparalleled, and we look forward to working with donors and community leaders to bring the project to a successful conclusion to ensure the children and families in the Mahoning Valley have the access to care they deserve.”
      Lenny Fisher is the chairman of the board of Handel’s Homemade Ice Cream. He has been a long-time supporter of children’s health in the Mahoning Valley through his support of Akron Children’s Hospital. His support has included the Vision for our Valley’s Children Campaign Fund, the Pediatric Cardiology Fund and the Mahoning Valley Fund. In addition, Mr. Fisher helped launch the Koins for Kids Campaign that challenges schools in Trumbull and Mahoning counties to raise awareness and funds to support Akron Children’s Hospital Mahoning Valley.
      Handels was founded in July, 1945 by Alice Handel, who began serving ice cream out of her husband’s gas station in Youngstown. For many years the company operated its business in the Fosterville area of Youngstown, before moving to Boardman.
      Since then, Handel’s has grown to include locations in California, Florida, Indiana, Nevada, Ohio, Pennsylvania, Arizona and Oregon. The menu has expanded to include over 100 flavors of homemade ice cream and yogurt. Handel’s success has been documented in many national publications including USA Today, People Magazine, Chocolatier Magazine, and US News and World Report.
      Recently published books “The Ten Best of Everything” and “Everybody Loves Ice Cream” both recognize Handel’s as one of the best ice creams in the world.
  Trustees Approve $10,000 For Free Composting Services To Boardman Residents  
  July 8, 2021 Edition  
      Meeting last week, Boardman Township Trustees Thomas Costello, Brad Calhoun and Larry Moliterno approved an agreement with Elliott’s Garden Center, 1283 West Western Reserve Rd. to provide free composting services to ‘non-commercial’ residents of Boardman.
      The agreement is for services through Mar. 30, 2024. Cost of the services is $10,000.
      Yard waste accepted includes brush (4-ft. or less and 6-inches or less in diameter), tree and shrub prunings, grass clippings, garden waste (vegetative and perennials), loose leaves or paper bagged leaves), ornamental grasses, and clean pallets. Waste must be separated into grass, leaves and brush. No trash (plastic, glass, metal, rocks or food waste) will be accepted. All plastic bags must be emptied and discarded. No animal waste or batteries.
      All township residents must sign in at the Elliott’s office prior to dumping.
      Trustees also approved a lease agreement for $5250 with the Mahoning County Board of Commissioners to provide funding for a public recycling site.
      By unanimous vote, Trustees adopted a resolution to place a 3-mil current expenses renewal levy on the November ballot.
      Proclamations recognizing four employees of Giant Eagle were presented to Chris Spencer, Sara Jeffrey, Tiffany Adkins and Christine Kennedy for their life saving efforts involving a 5-year-old girl, Alex Lucas.
      The child was inside a local Giant Eagle store when her heart stopped beating while she was inside a bathroom. Spencer, Jeffrey, Adkins and Kennedy immediately reacted, performing CPR, calling 9-1-1 and using an AED to assist the child.
      Since that emergency, Lucas has been diagnosed with a heart condition called CPVT. Her family says she is doing well and that she has a permanent defibrillator on her chest.
  School Board Adds Online Academy Director; Names New Director Of Operations  
  June 24, 2021 Edition  
     During a special meeting held last week, the Boardman Board of Education hired a new director of operations; and added a supervisor to direct digital education provided by the newly-established Spartan Online Academy.
      Brian Fonderlin was hired as Director Operations and Human Resource, and Edward Admas was named Supervisor of Digital Instruction. Fonderlin’s beginning salary is set at $90,500; while Adams roles in digital education brings a $49,812 annual salary.
      Fonderlin will replace Matt McKenzie who resigned his position effective June 30, 2021. Fonderlin’s 3-year contract begins July 1, 2021.
      Fonderlin, a Boardman resident, is a former owner of a construction business, and currently serves as an Assistant High School Principal in the Niles School District.
      “Brian Fonderlin comes to us with the best of both worlds: he knows buildings, construction and maintenance--as well as all the rigors of school administration, scheduling and personnel,” said Superintendent Tim Saxton.
      In the private sector, he owned and managed Fonderlin Restoration, Inc. for 16 years. His company specialized in new construction of residential and commercial buildings across three states and he also did restoration projects. In the education sector, Fonderlin taught and coached at Jackson Milton Local Schools for 6 years, and most recently has served as assistant principal at Niles McKinley High School.
      “This is a great opportunity for me to serve the community where my children grew up,” said Fonderlin. “I am honored to join the Spartan family, and look forward to getting started.”
      Fonderlin earned a bachelor’s degree in education at Youngstown State University and a masters in Leadership in Educational Administration from Capella University.
      Fonderlin and his wife Barb, who is a guidance counselor at Glenwood Junior High School, have lived in Boardman for more than 20 years, and raised three children here.
      Adams is currently serves as the Boardman Local School District’s STEAM advisor and his role will be expanded to oversee all virtual learning.
      Adams was hired by Boardman Schools in 2018 as the technology teacher at West Boulevard Elementary. He quickly expanded that role, as the overall STEAM coach in the district the following year. Adams has established a hands-on STEAM program at all three elementary schools. He has introduced K-3 students to coding concepts, 3-D printing, and robotics. He also played a critical role as the district transitioned to remote learning during the pandemic.
      “Ed Adams has brought excitement and great ideas to our STEAM instruction, keeping the attention of our youngest Spartans with unique projects,” said Director of Instruction Jared Cardillo. “We are certain he is the right person to guide our new virtual learning academy so that all of our remote students are engaged and learning.”
      Adams earned his bachelor’s degree in Political Science from Youngstown State University, and a masters in Political Science-Security Studies from the University of Akron. He is currently pursuing a second Masters in STEM Curriculum and Instruction at YSU.
      “I’m very excited to enter into this new chapter of my career here in Boardman,” said Adams. “This district has time and again demonstrated a real commitment to understanding how best to use technology to make learning more exciting, engaging, and accessible for our students, and I am truly honored to have the opportunity to help lead this effort.”
      Adams will continue his role as STEAM coach for the district, and also oversee all aspects of the Spartan Online Academy in August. Spartan Online Academy information can be found on the district website.
     
  ‘Ditch Digger’ Hopes To Repay Steve Bendel’s Good Deeds With The Creation Of A Memorial Fund  
  June 24, 2021 Edition  
     Steve Bendel Jr., 54, of Amberwood Trail, the owner of Bendel Enterprises Incorporated (B.E.I.) passed away suddenly and unexpectedly from a heart attack on May 12. Frank Quinlan, one of Mr. Bendel’s employees, is leading an effort to raise money and donate it in Mr. Bendel’s memory.
      “Mr. Bendel was the type of man that would not turn anyone down. He would put everyone in front of him and put himself at the bottom of the list. Mr. Bendel would drop everything he was doing to go and help someone in need,” Quinlan said.
      “I am that little boy in the poem Ditch Diggers, who plays with Lincoln logs and Tonka trucks. Thanks to Mr. Bendel, my mentor and friend, he saw this love I had and allowed me the opportunity to work beside him. From the time I was 11-years-old, I would spend my summers working alongside him, learning the trade. I too am a ditch digger and Mr. Bendel was the reason for it. I want to use this fund to help other future ditch diggers as well,” Quinlan said, adding “Since Mr. Bendel was taken from his life too early, all of his good deeds and favors could never possibly be repaid. With this memorial fund, I am hoping to pay all of his good deeds forward.”
      A portion of the funds raised will be donated to Glenwood Junior High and Boardman High School, both of which Mr. Bendel was an alumni. The donation for Glenwood Junior High will help with the purchasing of equipment and supplies for the Boardman Makers Club. The donation for Boardman High School will aid with the redevelopment of the industrial art classes.
      Mr. Bendel was a 1984 graduate of Boardman High School. While in high school he won the prestigious Lincoln Electric welding award and also the Golden Hammer.
      “It is my hope that the funds donated to these two schools will help to teach students the tools of the trade that are needed to be future ditch diggers,” Quinlan said.
      The rest of funds raised will be donated the Mike Rowe Works Foundation. The Mike Rowe Works Foundation is a foundation that raises money for students who have the dedication and work ethic to go into the trades. The foundation gives scholarships to those students who are in need. The foundation doesn’t just pick random kids to give the scholarships to. They are awarded them to people with a dedication to their trade.
      “Mr. Bendel left behind his family including a wife, four daughters, a brother and the B.E.I. business. If you were fortunate enough to know Mr. Bendel, you know that he was one of the nicest people around here. He was also one of the best equipment operators in the Mahoning Valley,” Quinlan said.
      Persons wishing to donate in Mr. Bendel’s memory can call 330-719-4295; or go to
      https://gofund.me/32fb2172
      “I would like to say thank you in advance for any donations large or small. If you cannot make a donation, please keep the Bendel family in your hearts and prayers,” Quinlan said.
  Free Yard Waste Drop-Off  
  June 24, 2021 Edition  
     Boardman Township Trustees provide free composting for Boardman residents at Elliot’s Garden Center, 1283 West Western Reserve Rd. Yard waste accepted includes brush (4-ft. or less and 6-inches or less in diameter), tree and shrub prunings, grass clippings, garden waste (vegetative and perennials), loose leaves or paper bagged leaves), ornamental grasses, and clean pallets. Waste must be separated into grass, leaves and brush. No trash (plastic, glass, metal, rocks or food waste) will be accepted. All plastic bags must be emptied and discarded. No animal waste or batteries. All township residents must sign in at the Elliot’s office prior to dumping.
  Boardman High School Senior Noah Holdridge Receives $10,000 College Scholarship; Will Attend University Of Michigan  
  June 17, 2021 Edition  
Noah Holdridge
      In recognition of his academic achievement, Noah Holdridge,a 2021 graduate of Boardman High School, has been awarded a $10,000 scholarship from Medical Mutual. Holdridge plans on attending the University of Michigan and majoring in chemical engineering. He was among six regional winners of $10,000 scholarships based on academic achievement and financial need.
      “Noah clearly was a high achiever at Boardman High School and is a deserving recipient of the scholarship,” said Ben Stoffer, Regional Vice President, East/Southeast Ohio. “Medical Mutual is pleased to support his pursuit of a college education in chemical engineering.”
      Noah, the son of Shannon Holdridge and the late Lynn Holdridge, of Presidential Dr., is a member of the National Honor Society at Boardman High School and graduated with ‘First in Class’ honors maintaining a 4.0 gpa while in high school
  24 Boardman Police Officers Deployed In Arrest Of Colorado Man Sought For Questioning By Secret Service  
  57-year-Old Tim Geisler Found At Red Roof Inn:   June 17, 2021 Edition  
      A Colorado Springs, Col. man was charged with obstruction and resisting arrest on Thurs., June 10 after Boardman police, accompanied by Secret Service agents, stormed the Red Roof Inn seeking to question 57-year-old Timothy Geisler, who apparently made questionable posts over social media.
      “The Secret Service needed to interview him regarding threats to the White House and believed he was in the process of traveling to Washington, D.C.,” Boardman Police Sgt. Paul Grimes said.
      According to police, 24 officers, including Chief Todd Werth, arrived at the Red Roof Inn about 11:30 a.m. and the first and second floors of the Inn were evacuated after local authorities learned the Secret Service had remotely tracked Geisler there.
      Police were told by an housekeeper at the inn that Geisler had been seen bringing a throwing axe, assorted pointed sticks and clubs into his room.
      Chief Werth and Sgt. Grimes were in a hallway near Geisler’s room, when, according to Sgt Grimes “suddenly, Geisler opened the door to his room and was face-to-face with Chief Werth with only one hand visible.”
      As Geisler was ordered to “show his hands,” he began to retreat back into his room when Chief Werth grabbed his hands and a struggle ensued.
      “Geisler was wrestling with the officers ordering him to the ground,” Sgt. Grimes said, adding a taser was deployed to help subdue the man.
      “Geisler went to the ground and after further wrestling, his hands were brought behind his back and he was handcuffed. He quickly calmed down,” Sgt Grimes said.
      Geisler was taken to the Boardman Police Department where he was interviewed by two Secret Service agents, then taken by ambulance to Mercy Health/Boardman for an evaluation. Sgt. Grimes said the axe, pointed sticks and clubs were seized by police.
  Several Initiatives Underway To Address Surface Water Issues In Boardman  
  TOWNSHIP INFRASTRUCTURE PROJECTS:   June 10, 2021 Edition  
     BY JOHN A. DARNELL JR.
      associate editor
      Boardman Trustees are working on a host of initiatives to address surface water issues in the township this summer.
      Road Department Superintendent, Marilyn Kenner, said four homes on Wildwood Dr. and South Cadillac Dr. will be demolished and the properties will then be designed to move a water channel away from existing homes, and also to reduce the velocity of water flows during peak rainfalls.
      Homes set for demolition include 230 and 233 Wildwood Dr., and 230 and 241 South Cadillac Dr. Cost of the project is supported by a grant from the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA), Kenner said.
      Meeting in May, Trustees Tom Costello, Brad Calhoun and Larry Moliterno approved a resolution to transfer property at 6706 Glendale Ave. to Boardman Township.
      “This property is known to flood during heavy storms and according to land revitalization protocols, this property will remain as green space,” Kenner said.
      She added, “As part of the stream restoration portion funded by FEMA grants, we will be removing a dam on Wildwood Drive to drain a pond and return it to a natural watercourse.”
      Other initiatives designed to improve drainage include in the Loch Heath/Heathers neighborhood, improvement to culverts on Turnberry Dr., Glenridge and Wildwood Dr., where erosion has undermined existing culverts.
      Boardman Township has received a $500,000 capital grant from the governor’s office, and those funds will be used to improve drainage near Market St. Elementary School.
      There are indications much of the school property will be donated by the Boardman Local School Board to the township to aid in addressing drainage issues associated with that property.
      “We are also applying for a grant his fall, that if approved, will also provide more funding for that project,” Kenner said.
  Boardman Community Baseball’s Field Of Dreams Complex To Celebrate 25th Anninversary With Ceremonies Set For June 26  
  43-Acre, 20-Field Facility Opened In 1996:   June 10, 2021 Edition  
     BY GREG GULAS
      Boardman News Sports
      bnews@zoominternet.net
      Boardman Community Baseball’s Fields of Dreams Complex is set to celebrate their 25th anniversary season on Saturday, June 25 with ceremonies scheduled for noon at their complex, located at 410 McClurg Rd.
      Ceremonies are open to the public free of charge.
      The 43-acre, 20-field baseball complex held opening ceremonies on June 15, 1996 with a parade of its current players, remarks by YSU President, Jim Tressel – at the time he was the Penguins’ head football coach and executive director of athletics – and former Major League all-star Dave Dravecky, a former Boardman Little League star pitcher.
      In a June 1994 article that appeared in The Boardman News, the first step toward realizing the dream of a centralized baseball complex for all Boardman youngsters occurred when Dr. John York and Clarence ‘Sonny’ Smith, the collective driving force behind the project, reached an agreement with three local doctors (Dr. Daniel P. DeGenova, Dr. Raymond S. Boniface and Dr. Elias T. Saadi) for Boardman Community Baseball to purchase 30 acres of land north of McClurg Rd.
      The doctors also agreed to donate an additional 10 acres for the project with several smaller parcels of land purchased to provide direct access from McClurg Rd. to the east of the Ohio Water Service towers.
      With the concurrence of the Boardman Community Baseball organization, Boardman Little League past-president, architect Chuck Schafer, who helped build the first community Little League Complex at Boardman Park, was asked to provide design services – he was aided by Paul Brock as on-site managers – while Warren ‘Pete’ Drescher agreed to provide surveying and field engineering services.
      Steel Valley Engineering volunteered to design the plumbing, heating, air conditioning and electrical systems required for the entire complex with all professional services provided at no cost to Boardman Community Baseball.
      The rough grading, already completed, was provided by the A.P. O’Horo Co. with cooperation and assistance from the Operating Engineers Training Program, while several other members of the construction fraternity offered to provide services and-or materials.
      Parents of participating baseball players, skilled in various construction trades, also volunteered to join the construction team.
      The solicitation of funds, materials and services provided the main thrust of the construction efforts with the committee comprised of then current BCB president Marykaye Carlson, past president John Walsh, treasurer Tim Kaple, Jim Spaite, Woody Stone, Frank Dravecky, York, Smith and Schafer, who served as chairman.
      Greg Krieger, league secretary and director of complex operations, and a league board member for the past 28 years, is the unofficial historian of Boardman Community Baseball. HeLittle League since its chartering.
      “The Boardman Little League was chartered in 1955 and in 1993, merged with Boardman Youth Baseball,” Krieger stated. “Dr. John York, who came from BYB, then entered the picture and the two organizations merged to form Boardman Community Baseball. He knew that we outgrew our Boardman Park fields and parking was a challenge so in the winter of 1993, Dr. York, along with Clarence Smith, purchased the property on McClurg Rd. and gifted it to the league.”
      Schafer had a love for Little League baseball and for well over a quarter century, remained active as an announcer at the District tournament games during each summer session. Today, his son, Rick, carries on the tradition that his father started some six decades ago.
      Ironically, this year’s ceremonies will take place during the 18th annual Chuck Schafer Scholarship Tournament, a fundraiser which awards two, $2,500 yearly scholarships to an eligible Boardman High School, Cardinal Mooney or Ursuline High School player who has played at least five years at Fields of Dreams.
      The scholarships are announced during Boardman High’s annual year end awards ceremony.
      That first year in 1996, the organization offered 12 leagues with play in T-Ball (boys and girl’s baseball and softball), Minor League (boys and girls), Jr. Varsity (9 and 10, boys and girls), Varsity (11 and 12, boys and girls), Tri-T PONY League (13 and 14, boys and girls), Colt League (15-18 boys) and the ever popular Challenger Division (Co-ed, 4 though 18 years of age for mentally and physically challenged youth).
      This year, those same 12 leagues remain in existence and while 1,600 youths participated that first season at its Fields of Dreams Complex, close to half that number is expected to participate 25 years later.
      The challenge of an abbreviated 2020 season (due to the COVID-19 pandemic) is now a fading memory and Chad Miller, current league president, said it is nice to be able to return with a more normal schedule.
      “In 2020, our goal was to simply provide baseball and softball for the kids of Boardman,” Miller noted. “Our club officers and executive committee came up with a great plan to safely provide an opportunity to play and we did so from June 15 to July 30.
      “There were no state or all-star opportunities a year ago but this year, our 12-U Little League baseball and softball teams will play for a World Series championship. All others will play for a state crown but will not be eligible for regionals or a trip to the World Series.”
      In 25 years of play, BCB estimates that over 100,000 kids have enjoyed the use of its facilities, a site that has hosted multiple state Little League baseball and softball tournaments and all because Dr. John York and Clarence Smith had a vision to grow what had already become one of the very best Little League programs in the state of Ohio during its first 41 seasons of operation.
       NOTE: A total of 25 Boardman Community Baseball-Boardman Youth Baseball-Boardman Little League teams have won either a state, regional or World Series championship. They are as follows:
      1976: Little League Softball, State Champions
      1978: Senior League, State Champions
      1981: Senior League (13-yr. old Baseball), State, Regional and World Series Champions. (Ray ‘Bags’ Bagdasarrian, manager, Ed Moore and Mike Kish, coaches.
      1981: Senior League, State Champions
      1982: Senior League (13-yr. old Baseball), State Champions
      1983: Senior League, State Champions
      1985: Little League Baseball, State Champions
      1987: Little League Baseball, State Champions
      1988: Senior League Softball, State Champions
      1992: Little League Baseball, State Champions
      1994: 10-U Softball, State Champions
      1996: Little League Baseball, State Champions
      2002: Junior League Softball, State Champions
      2005: Little League Baseball, State Champions
      2006: Junior League Baseball, State Champions
      2006: Junior League Girl’s, State Champions
      2007: Junior League Girl’s, State and Regional Champions; World Series Participants
      2011: 11-U Baseball, State Champions
      2013: 11-U Softball, State Champions
      2014: Junior League Softball, State Champions
      2014: Intermediate 50-70, State Champions
      2014: 11-U Softball, State Champions
      2016: 10-U Baseball, State Champions
      2017: 11-U Baseball, State Champions (Back-to-Back)
      2019: 11-U Baseball, State Champions (Did not get a chance to defend their title in 2020 due to COVID-19 pandemic) notes that 2021 is the 66th year for Boardman
  Sister Jerome Corcoran, 105 Legendary Ambassador For The Poor  
  June 10, 2021 Edition  
Sister Jerome Corcoran
     BY JOHN A. DARNELL JR.
      associate editor
      Sister Jerome Corcoran, of the Ursuline Sisters, died Sun., June 6, at the age of 105. She served most uniquely as an ambassador for God and children in the Mahoning Valley for more than eight decades, and had a particular passion and ability to raise funds to benefit area youth.
      She was a woman of great compassion for others.
      Sister Jerome was a graduate of the first-ever coed class at Ursuline High School (1934) in Youngstown. She went on to earn both her B.A. and M.A. degrees in English from Catholic University in Washington, D.C. She also earned her PhD. in education and research at Case Western Reserve University. She taught at colleges, universities, and Diocese of Youngstown Schools, as well as being a supervisor of education.
      She was recognized with numerous awards, including the Sargent Shiver Anti-Poverty Remedial Reading Award, B’nai B’rith Woman of the Year, Mahoning County Bar Association Annual Award, Ursuline High School Woman of the Year Award, Salvation Army Others Award, the Ohio Department of Education Award, the Chamber of Commerce William G. Lyden Spirit of the Valley Award, William Holmes McGuffey Historical Society Pioneer Award, and the Ethnic Heritage Society Lifetime Achievement Award.
      On May 19, 2016, Sister Jerome was inducted into the Ohio Senior Citizen Hall of Fame.
      At the time of her death, her popularity was as strong as ever, as many of her friends complained she had been kept out of public view, and contact with them. Despite this, she continued to show her compassion for others through telephone calls to her longtime friends and supporters, always offering encouragement through the word of God.
      In 1965, she began a children’s reading program and in 1967, the reading program was extended to adults. Over the next decade, 100 adults were able to receive GEDs through this program.
      Sister Jerome founded (in 1975) and operated the Mill Creek Children’s Center, preschool for children from low-income families, for more than 36 years until she was summarily dismissed from the post at the age of 96.
      That didn’t stop Sister Jerome’s efforts to help area youth.
      “The Lord has made me a tough old bird,” she said upon her dismissal, adding “I plan to work Sister I can be...I am thinking of one last big effort to thank the good Lord for my very happy life.”
      So, she continued to serve in education programs taking place in correctional facilities and opened her own nonprofit program called Sister Jerome’s Poor. She founded the Mission College program at the age of 97 in 2013. Its board selected 12 city college students with a promising future and helped them pay for their education either in college or technical school---as long as they held a job and kept their grades up.
      “That they learn, that they learn how to read, that they learn how to speak, they learn how to present themselves, the whole package is literacy,” Sister Jerome said of her missions in education.
      A year after she earned her doctorate in education and English, from 1953 to 1963, she was the supervisor of education for the Diocese of Youngstown.
      Sister Jerome Corcoran, was born Apr. 21, 1916 in Chicago, Ill, and moved to the Youngstown area as a child. Her parents were Irish and actually met in Chicago. With the United States economy down and unemployment rising, the family decided to move to Ireland where Sister Jerome and her parents lived six months with her father’s family and six months with her mother’s family, saving their money to come back to the United States.
      About 1924, her father heard that there was work in Youngstown, the family returned to the United States, purchasing the McKelvey home (from the department store era) on the city’s north side.
      Sister Jerome once recalled, “It was a magnificent home and my father thought with the three stories they could rent out rooms in an apartment on the top floor that would help pay for their mortgage.
      “The very top floor was rented out as an apartment, the second floor was rented out as rooms, and the main floor the family lived in.”
      “Every month, rent money would be collected and the family would then have me (8-year-old Sister Jerome) sit down and do the math on how much money was collected and subtract that from the mortgage to know what their balance would be.”
      Of course, as sister would later explain, she didn’t count any interest, as that was a more complicated.
      In June, 1935, at the age of 19, Sister Jerome received her White veil.
      Helping ‘working poor families,’ as she would always call them, was her passion. She helped college students with mentoring and expenses such as food, transportation and clothing.
      Many nights her friends would get calls from Sister Jerome, expressing her concern and need to be helping someone who had called her---whether the need was for gas or food, or other emergency, Sister Jerome was someone ‘to talk to,’ and depend on. Sister Jerome had no qualms about driving in so-called high crime areas and somehow she made everything seem okay.
      Those who knew her respected and loved her, and her spunky and persistent ways.
      In Oct., 2015, a 100th birthday party for Sister Jerome was held, even though her birthday was still six months away. The event, held at the Georgetown, was really a fund-raiser for Sister Jerome’s Poor and raised more than $100,000 for that mission.
      Spry and chipper on the backside of 99-years-old, (she was born Apr. 21, 1916) Sister Jerome told those in attendance that retirement was not an option.
      “I still have a lot to do,” she said after receiving accolades from local, state and national political figures, as well as a Papal Blessing from Pope Francis.
      “Poverty begets poverty, and the only hope to escape it is a good education. I have found this to be true time and again in my decades as an educator and school administrator,” Sister Jerome said.
      Asked about the secret of her longevity, Sister Jerome replied “My parents each lived to be 98-years-old, and that’s a good start. Aside from that, I have no idea.”
      A local group of many good friends of Sister Jerome are establishing a scholarship in her name at Youngstown State University. The scholarship will benefit students needing monetary help to further their education, which was Sister Jerome’s passion all her life.
      “Education is the way out of poverty, Education is the way to realize your potential,” Sister Jerome often observed.
      All donations may be sent to the Youngstown State University Foundation, 655 Wick Ave., Youngstown, Oh., 44502. Please put at the bottom memo line of your check: Sister Jerome’s Scholarship.
  Boardman Local School’s Retire-Rehire Program Will Save The District $131,952  
  June 3, 2021 Edition  
      Under terms of the Boardman Local Schools Retire-Rehire Program, Supt. Tim Saxton has been given a three-year contract that will reduce to salary by some $30,000. Meeting in May, the Boardman Local School Board gave the superintendent a new contract, but under the Retire-Rehire program his annual salary has been reduced from $120,477 a year to $89,307. “The new contract will save the district $31,139 a year,” said Treasurer Terry Armstrong, who noted three other staffers, Donnis Kaut, Betsy McCrate and Tom Davis, also joined the Retire-Rehire program. Coupled with Mr. Saxton’s contract, the new contracts will save the school district $131,952 in the next school year, Armstrong said.
  117th Annual Boardman Township Memorial Day  
  “A special breed of individual has always stepped forward to protect the sovereignty of our nation, and our way of life.”:   June 3, 2021 Edition  
     BY JOHN A. DARNELL JR.
      associate editor
      Boardman Township’s 117th annual Memorial Day observance was held Mon., May 31 at the Maag Amphitheater in Boardman Park where some 1,100 persons attended the ceremonies.
      Featured speaker was Gold Star Father Donald C. Clark, whose son Chief Warrant Officer Donald V. Clark, died in a helicopter crash on Nov. 15, 2008 while serving during Operation Iraqi Freedom.
      His 37 years were packed with life,” Mr. Clark said about his son, adding, “When he passed away that night, I realized he belongs to America. He’s not just mine; he’s also your soldier.”
      Serving as Master of Ceremonies was Mark Luke, of the Boardman Kiwanis Club.
      “Today is not a day for travel, vacationing, barbeques, family gatherings, swimming pool openings, picnis, walks in the park, wearing white from now to Labor Day, or even parades and services like this one....unless you choose them to be...because you can choose to spend your day in the manner you wish,” Luke said, adding “because great Americans with qualities like duty, honor, courage, service above self...gave you the freedoms to make your choices.”
      Luke said that throughout the history of the United States, “a special breed of individual has always stepped forward to protect the sovereignty of our nation, and our way of life, many of whom gave the ultimate sacrifice, surrendering their lives to the altar of freedom.
      “To those of you with us who served, or are serving our nation, and to those no longer with us, we, who now live in the greatest country in the world, say thank you.”
      Following Mr. Luke’s remarks, a wreath honoring current military personnel was placed at the Veterans’ Memorial in Boardman Park by Cassidy Bryan, president of the Boardman High School National Honor Society; and a rifle salute honoring all those who served in the armed forces presented by Sons of Confederate Veterans Ron Johnson, Kellie Wright and John Aaron.
      Providing patriotic music for the service were members of the Boardman High School Wind Ensemble, directed by Thomas M. Ruggieri.
      Members of the ensemble included Aeva Richard, Anna Shevock, Miranda Russell, Desi Girardi, Theresa Laverock, Molly DePinto, Ellie Leipply-Caban, Katelynn Kershaw, Tyler Tremayne, Riley McCurdy, Adam Lipka, Ryan Sweder, Zac Khoury, Lainey Beichner, Khloe McDaniel, Noelle Hammar, Emma Vondran, Ayden Dabney, Jason Lagese, Evan Sweder, Nick Ricottilli, Marshal Gollings, Alivia Shablesky, Caden Fleet, Isaiah Grazier, Sonny Testa, Teddy Anzevino, Zach Knickerbocker, Jason Sweder, Caleb Austin, Michael Misel, Max Martin, Nick Vivaqua, Nathan West, Aidan Swavel, Megan Bendel, Aaron Viars, Vivien Smith, Jacob Wolf, Noah Holdridge, Connor Zimmer, James Jama, Andrew Schrembeck, James Solmen, Brayden Norvell, Tommy Doerr, Sal Buonamici, Carlos Gonzalez, Brayden Norvell, Joey Callard, Emily Honthy, Celesta Richard, Logan Ciavarella, Erik Lipinsky, Benji Rolston, Anthony DeMain, John Cagnina and Zoey Fick-Mills.
      The ensemble closed the Memorial Day Ceremonies with Stars and Stripes Forever.
      Leading the Star Spangled Banner was vocalist Miranda Russell, and delivering the invocation was Lauren Johnson. Conducting the flag ceremony were members of Boy Scout Troop 46.
      Special recognition was given to three members of the Boardman community who passed away during the past year, including Clarence ‘Sonny’ Smith, Peter J. Gross and Earl ‘Dig’ Coffin.
     
      PICTURED: photo/John A. Darnell jr.
       SOME 1,110 PERSONS ATTENDED THE 117th annual Boardman Township Memorial Day services held in Boardman Park on Mon., May 31. Pictured, many of those in attendance join in the Pledge of Allegiance.
  Gold Star Father Donald C. Clark Featured Speaker At Boardman Township Memorial Day Observance  
  June 3, 2021 Edition  
     photo/John A. Darnell jr.
       FEATURED SPEAKER AT BOARDMAN TOWNSHIP Memorial Day observances held in Boardman Park was Gold Star Father Donald C. Clark, whose son, CWO Donald V. Clark died at the age of 37 when his OH-58 Kiowa helicopter crashed while on a mission over Mosul, Iraq on Nov. 15, 2008.
  ABC Water & Stormwater District  
  Begins Work On Culvert Replacement:   May 27, 2021 Edition  
     photo/John A. Darnell jr.
       WORK BEGAN ON A $980,000 CULVERT REPLACEMENT PROJECT last week in the Loch Heath-Red Grouse neighborhood. Rudzik Excavating is clearing and replacing culverts that are a constant maintenance concern and that have deteriorated, including one culvert that caused a sink hole. Once the project is completed, surface water/drainage issues will be greatly reduced. The project is funded through the ABC Water and Stormwater District.
  15 Seniors Awarded Prestigious Edward J. DeBartolo Memorial Scholarships  
  May 27, 2021 Edition  
     Denise DeBartolo York and Dr. John York, San Francisco 49ers co-chairs and longtime education advocates, awarded 15 scholarships to graduating high school seniors from Columbiana, Mahoning and Trumbull counties in ceremonies held last week at the Lake Club.
      The scholarships, part of The Edward J. DeBartolo Memorial Scholarship Foundation, totaled $150,000 were presented to the recipients during a luncheon for the students and their families.
      The scholarship was first established by DeBartolo York’s father, Edward J. DeBartolo, and several close friends, who worked to provide commendable youth the opportunity to continue their education. The scholarship foundation, overseen by the Yorks in honor of Mr. DeBartolo, serves to provide the same platform for excellent area youth in need of financial assistance.
      “My father believed that all students who have demonstrated intensity and desire to achieve their personal goals, regardless of their financial situation, should be afforded the opportunity to receive a college education. The goals of the foundation are to continue to reward those students who have proven themselves as role models and leaders in their community.” said Mrs. DeBartolo York.
      The 2021 scholarship recipients are---
       •Megan Black, South Range High School. She
      plans to attend either Mount Union, Youngstown State or The Ohio State University to study nursing.
       •Angelica Bohurjack, Austintown Fitch High School. She plans to attend Duquesne University and study music education.
       •Bailey Campbell, West Branch High School. She plans to attend ether Ohio University or The Ohio State University to study biology/pre-med.
       •Megan Chludzinski, Lisbon High School. She plans to attend The Ohio State University to study food science and technology.
       •Brooklyn Funari, Columbiana High School. She plans to attend Kent State University to study nursing.
       •George Getsy Jr., South Range High School. He plans to attend The Ohio State University to study political science.
       •Alannah Hetzel, Boardman High School. She plans to attend either Youngstown State or Franciscan University of Steubenville to study early childhood special education.
       •Nikole Husnick, Brookfield High School. She plans to attend either Walsh College, Edinboro University or Slippery Rock University to study exercise science.
       •Ruth Kaiser, Bloomfield High School. She plans to attend Cleveland State University to study studio art.
       •Makenzie McBride, Liberty High School. She plans to attend either The Ohio State University or Youngstown State to study mechanical engineering.
       •Hannah Minor, United Local High School. She plans to attend Slippery Rock University to study public health (pre-physician’s assistant).
       •Krista Perry, Crestview High School. She plans to attend Walsh University to study education.
       •Lily Secrest, Salem High School. She plans to attend either Ohio University, Mount Union, or Hiram College to study environmental civil engineering.
       •James Shaffer, Campbell Memorial High School. He plans to attend Grove City College to study accounting.
       •Tatiana Tolson, Cardinal Mooney High School. She plans to attend either Walsh University, John Carroll University or the University of Miami to study chemistry/pre-med.
      More than 350 applications were received by The Edward J. DeBartolo Memorial Scholarship Foundation, which included grade transcripts, student essays and recommendations from guidance counselors and principals. Scholarship award winners are determined by academic achievement, community involvement and financial need.
      The Edward J. DeBartolo Memorial Scholarship Foundation has awarded more than $1.5 Million in scholarships over the past 24 years and strives to provide advanced education for deserving valley students well into the future.
     
  Poland School Administrators Named Principals At BHS And Center Intermediate  
  May 27, 2021 Edition  
     Meeting on Monday, May 24, the Boardman Board of Education hired principals for Boardman High School and Center Intermediate School.
      Tapped as the new high school principal, replacing Cyndi Fernback, is Mark Zura; and named new principal at Center Intermediate is Mike Masucci, who replaces Randy Ebie.
      Both new principals come to the Boardman Local School District after serving as administrators with the Poland Local Schools.
      Zura and Masucci received three-year contracts.
      Zura currently serves as Director of Student Services in the Poland Local School District. He has more than 20 years of educational experience, half of which was spent at Boardman. He served as an intervention specialist, teaching math at BHS before becoming Assistant High School Principal, and then Boardman’s Director of Student Services as recently as 2019.
      “I witnessed Mr. Zura grow into an outstanding leader over his nine years as a Boardman staff member and was saddened to see him leave in 2019,” said Supt. Tim Saxton. “He returns to Boardman with even greater leadership skills and wisdom after serving the Poland Local Schools. Boardman High School is in great hands with Mr. Zura at the helm.”
      A West Branch native, Zura earned a bachelor’s degree in secondary education at Youngstown State University, a masters in education administration from Ashland University. He also earned superintendent licensure from Ashland in 2014.
      “I recently returned to [Boardman’s] campus to watch Project Mayhem rehearse for their concert this past weekend and I just felt a sense of great pride,” said Zura. “So many Spartan teachers, staff and administrators continue to have a great impact on me. I am so excited to return to a role where I can get to know and work closely with students, parents and staff members with the goal of building strong relationships and trust.”
      Zura and his wife Jennifer have two children---Olivia is a sophomore and Sean is finishing seventh grade. Education runs in the family, as his wife teaches math in Liberty.
      Zura’s annual salary will be $99,127.
      Masucci is currently principal at Poland Union Elementary School. He is a seasoned educator who began his 27 year career as a Title teacher at Boardman’s West Boulevard Elementary School, taught first grade for eight years in Poland before becoming an elementary principal in 2002.
      “Mr. Masucci brings to Center Intermediate School decades of proven success and dedication to his staff and students,” said Supt. Saxton. “After repeated years of change at our intermediate school, we are excited for the staff and the families at Center to experience Mr. Masucci’s outstanding leadership and passion.”
      A graduate of the Boardman High School Class of 1989, Masucci earned his bachelor’s degree in elementary education from Youngstown State, and his masters in educational administration from YSU in 2001.
      “At 50-years-old, I decided to take a leap. The role of principal of Center Intermediate is an incredible opportunity and I cannot wait to get started,” said Masucci. “I am humbled to join such a tremendous team and look forward to creating a warm, friendly environment where everyone feels welcomed and appreciated.”
      Masucci and his wife Michelle, have three children: a son, Michael, and two daughters, Katie and Hannah.
      Masucci’s annual salary will be $99,820.
     
  What’s Going On At Local Hostelries?  
  May 20, 2021 Edition  
     Days Inn: Meth Explosion
      Holiday Inn: Unwanted Guests
      Red Roof Inn: Looking For 15-Year-Old Girl (Found At Holiday Inn)
      Boardman Inn: Man Stabbed
     
      BY JOHN A. DARNELL JR.
      associate editor
      A 39-year-old North Brockway Ave., Youngstown man was lodged into the Mahoning County Jail last week after some suspected meth he was cooking blew-up in a room sometime around 9:00 a.m. at the Days Inn, 7393 South Ave. on Thurs., Mar. 11.
      Justin Robert Bowman, 39, was charged with aggravated arson, possession of chemicals used to manufacture methamphetamine, tampering with evidence and inducing panic.
      The Boardman Fire Department was called to the inn after a fire alarm activated. Lt. Joel Wharry, of the BFD, then called Boardman police to the scene to check for a possible meth law in room #127.
      Wharry told police a man staying in room #127 told him that he was cooking food on a hot plate when it caught fire.
      Plt. Steve Dubos then interviewed the man, identified as Bowman, who told the police officer “Man, I had a hot plate in there, the plastic under it melted. I freaked-out and it started smoking, so I put the hot plate under water. It steamed-up real bad, and now it’s everywhere.”
      However, Sgt. Glenn Patton, of the BPD, said fire department personnel were unable to locate a cook plate in room #127, or any burnt food.
      Footage from video surveillance cameras obtained by Boardman police showed Bowman enter room #127 about 8:30 a.m. and about an hour later, “smoke is seen coming out from under the door and the fire alarm begins to go off.”
      Police said Bowman, who claimed to be a student at Kent State, is then captured on an exterior surveillance camera exiting the inn and carrying a large, black plastic bag.
      The bag was later located by Lt. Wharry and Ptl. Mike Dado, and Sgt. Mike Hughes, head of the BPD’s Narcotics Enforcement Unit (NEU) “identified the presence of chemicals used in the manufacture of methamphetamine,” Sgt. Patton said.
      Owner of the inn, identified as Munawar Chaudry, told police when he entered room #127, “fumes smelled like starter fluid.”
      Sgt. Hughes said he determined “while cooking the methamphetamine, an explosion curred that caused smoke in the hallway, leading to the fire alarm activation and eventual evacuation of the inn.”
      Sgt. Hughes also learned during the incident, the Mahoning County Childrens Services came to the Days Inn to check on the welfare of a 1-year-old child staying there. Once the child’s presence was confirmed, the possession of chemicals charge was enhanced to a felony-2 crime.
      Sgt. Patton said once Bowman was placed into handcuffs, he began to complain of chest pain and he was taken to Mercy Health (under police guard) for an evaluation.
      Once released from the hospital, Bowman was booked and taken to jail where he was lodged without bail.
      Holiday Inn
      On May 7, near midnight, police were called to the Holiday Inn, 7410 South Ave., after they were told the occupants of room #501 had tampered with a fire alarm. The front desk manager asked police to help with evicting the guests in that room.
      When hotel management, accompanied by police, entered the room, no one was inside.
      Ptl. Daryn Tallman said in plain view on a dresser was a credit card in the name of Monica Robles. On the credit card was a white powder residue, Officer Tallman said, adding there was also possible remnants of some type of ecstasy pills.
      Police learned a man who used the name of Michael Roddy had rented the room and he had paid for an additional night so a female could stay there.
      About 40 minutes after police arrived, Robles, 23, showed-up at the hotel to get her belongings out of room #501, Officer Tallman said.
      Red Roof Inn
      About 11:00 p.m. on May 3, police were called to the Red Roof Inn, 1051 Tiffany South Blvd., in response to a reported fight, that included a claim a female jumped over the front counter.
      While investigating that claim, police located a group of individuals at a nearby convenience store, Country Fair on South Ave., where they spoke to 34-year-old Naqkeei McRae, of Braddock, Pa.
      McRae denied jumping over the counter at the Red Roof Inn, but said she and other family members went to the inn looking for her 15-year-old daughter.
      McRae told police her daughter had her hair done on the east side of Youngstown, then apparently left the hair dresser and went to the Red Roof Inn.
      McRae told police she and family members “saw” the 15-year-old girl, Cheelo, at the inn.
      “She ran from them (mother and family members) and would not talk to them,” McRae told Ptl. Angelo Pasquale.
      Police said they contacted a man by the name of Kelvin Monseraat, who was able to call Cheelo, who was then located at the Holiday Inn on South Ave.
      “Cheelo stated that she didn’t run away...(and) she went to the Red Roof Inn with her cousin, whom she could not identify,” Officer Pasquale said.
      Boardman Inn
      On Thurs., May 13, about 11:30 p.m., three Boardman police officers were sent to the Boardman Inn, 7109 Market St., after the manager of the business, Teja Patel, said he was monitoring an altercation on a surveillance video.
      Police learned that Deletaire White, 38, of 293 North Martha Ave., Akron, Oh. and Christopher Terrence Israel Waller, 20, of 412 Wirt St., Youngstown, Oh., had been involved in a physical altercation. Waller told police his hand was sore from duking White in the face, but he refused medical attention,
      While investigating the assault, police learned that Waller was wanted on a warrant issued out of Liberty Township. He was taken to the Mahoning County Jail where his custody was released to the Liberty Police Department.
      Boardman Inn
      On Fri., May 14 about 12:45 p.m., police were called to the Boardman Inn for a reported stabbing where the victim was reported to be Michael Mazorra, 29, of 448 Richland Ave., Youngstown, Oh. Police interviewed 29-year-old Hali Delgado, of 50 Westminster Ave., Austintown, who told Ptl Evan Beil she and Mazorra were arguing. “She stated that Mazorra was beating her up, so she grabbed a knife and was swinging it around,” Officer Beil said. Delgado was charged with felonious assault and domestic violence. Police said that Mazorra had been stabbed in the stomach and back, and had a cut behind his left ear.
  BOARDMAN MEMORIAL DAY SERVICES MAY 31 AT 10 A.M.  
  May 20, 2021 Edition  
     The 117th annual Boardman Memorial Day Service will be held Monday, May 31 at 10:00 a.m. at Boardman Park’s Maag Outdoor Amphitheater where all who have served America in the armed forces, and those who gave the ultimate sacrifice while in military service will be honored.
      All veterans and community members are welcome to recognize, remember and express solemn thankfulness for the historical sacrifices made to preserve the American way of life.
      Featured speaker will be Gold Star father Donald Clark, who will speak about his son, Donald V. Clark, who died in a helicopter crash over Mosul, Iraq in 2008.
      William Wainio will give the invocation. Lt. Colonel Bill Moss, USAF retired, will lead the Pledge of Allegiance and place a wreath in honor of deceased veterans.
      Boardman High School National Honor Society President Cassidy Bryan will place a wreath in honor of those currently serving in the military. Mark Luke, of the Boardman Kiwanis Club, will serve as master of ceremonies.
      The Boardman High School Wind Ensemble, conducted by Tom Ruggieri, will provide music for the service.
      “We thank and recognize everyone who makes this event a success – our Military Veterans, Boardman Township Park, Boardman Local School District, Boardman Police Department, Boardman Fire Department, and our many volunteers and attendees. We are truly humbled by the public interest and dedication that so many have for our cherished annual service,” said Luke.
      In the event of rain, the service will be held in the Boardman Park Lariccia Community Center at 10:00 a.m.
  Four Appointed To YSU Foundation Board Of Trustees  
  May 20, 2021 Edition  
     The Youngstown State University Foundation announces the appointment of four new trustees to its Board of Trustees, with two-year terms that began on May 10. The incoming cohort includes Nancy Beeghly, Martha Bushey, Nikki Carter and Scott Schulick.
      “The YSU Foundation Board of Trustees is thrilled to welcome new members who will champion for YSU students and the Foundation,” said Board Chairman Frank Hierro. “Their addition strengthens our existing Board, whose experience and passion for helping YSU and its students enhance the future and mission of the YSU Foundation.”
      Nancy Beeghly is a former educator and columnist with the Vindicator. She is a well regarded community philanthropist, having served on various nonprofit and higher education boards and committees. Nancy received her Bachelor of Arts in Education from the University of Mount Union and an honorary Doctor of Public Service from Westminster College. For over 30 years, she has volunteered at the YSU English Festival and was a member of its advisory committee.
      Atty. Martha Bushey is a partner with Manchester, Newman, and Bennett. Her career path began as a nurse, graduating from YSU with a B.S.N. She later earned her J.D. at the Akron School of Law. Martha is very involved in community matters through her volunteer services over the years, such as being on the board of directors for Bon Secours Mercy Health, the Youngstown-Warren Regional Chamber and Boardman Civic Association. She is also a graduate of Leadership Mahoning Valley.
      Nikki Carter is the Chief Strategy Officer (CSO) of the Samaritan Group Bon Secours Mercy Health. Her background has been substantially in the healthcare industry. These roles include being the Vice President of Cancer Care Services at the Cleveland Clinic and holding multiple positions within Mercy Health. Nikki is a Board Member and Program Committee Member for the American College of Healthcare Executives Northern Ohio Chapter and involved in civic organizations such as the YMCA and Inspiring Minds. Nikki earned a Master’s of Business Administration and Master’s of Public Health, both from West Virginia University.
      Scott Schulick earned a Bachelor’s of Business Administration degree from YSU and a Master’s of Business with a concentration in finance. Scott is the Vice President/Investments, AIF (Accredited Investment Fiduciary) with Stifel, Nicolas & Co., Inc, where he works with individuals and other entities on investment planning and management. He is a former board member on both YSU and the Foundation’s boards. Scott volunteers his time as a member of the YSU We See Tomorrow Campaign Cabinet Committee and other charitable causes.
      Founded in 1966, the YSU Foundation is the nonprofit philanthropic entity of YSU. In the 2020-2021 academic year, the Foundation provided a record of $9.9 million in scholarship and program support for YSU students.
  Longtime Administrators, Teacher Will Retire  
  From Boardman Local Schools:   May 13, 2021 Edition  
      Three longtime members of the Boardman Local School staff, including two principals, will retire this year.
      Boardman High School Principal Cyndi Fernback will step down from her position, effective July 31; while Center Intermediate Principal Randall Ebie will leave his post. effective June 30.
      Also leaving the system will be longtime teacher Brad Calhoun, who also serves as a Boardman Township Trustee. Calhoun will join the management team at Phantom Fireworks upon his retirement from the local school system.
      Fernback, a 1984 graduate of Boardman High School, has been employed by the Boardman Local Schools for 33 years, including the past six years as high school principal.
      In announcing her retirement, Fernback said “As I am finishing my 33rd year in education, all of them amazing experiences, I am making the joyful decision to retire. I have loved my role as an administrator for Boardman Schools so very much, but at this time I have a deep yearning to clear a new space in my life, to create a new openness for new roles and experiences to come. I am not so much leaving a job as I am returning to me, my life, my family, my friends, my husband, my beautiful grandchildren.
      “I will work again someday, this I know. But for now I am going to take some time to explore balance and quiet and time—time to fill as my heart and soul desire.
      “I am leaving BHS with joy, deep fulfillment, gratitude, and love for the place that gave me so many opportunities. I will miss all of the people in that amazing building.”
      Ebie has been employed for 34 years, and spent his entire career with Boardman at Center. He was a 1982 graduate of Boardman High School, and taught science at Center for the first nine years, then he was assistant principal there, and became principal in 2003.
      Ebie was instrumental in a lot of improvements at Center, and also spent countless hours literally painting, and fixing the building. (the extreme school makeover four years ago), painted every room in the building, This year, he painted the building’s new sensory room.
      Ebie brought the first school food pantry (pilot program for Second Harvest Food Bank) to light five years ago. Today, there are three dozen such school pantries in the tri-county area.
      Calhoun will leave Boardman Local Schools after a 32-year career in education,
      During his tenure, he taught seventh grade World History, Geography and Ohio History three years, eighth grade American History 26 Years; and has most recently served as Student Support Coordinator three years. He also held several coaching positions, including assistant girls basketball coach, boys junior varsity and freshman baseball coach; and also served as Student Council advisor and intramural coordinator at Center.
      Calhoun is a Trustee of the J. Ford Crandall Foundation and has participated in many community organizations, including the Mahoning County Township Association, Ohio Township Association, Mahoning County Emergency Management Agency Planning Committee, Boardman Lions Club, Boardman Civic Association and Boardman PTA.
      “I graduated from Boardman High School in 1982, completed my student teaching at Center Middle School and was hired in 1989. My time spent with the Boardman Local Schools has been terrific and rewarding. What an honor it has been to work with a terrific staff, Boardman families and most importantly the students of Boardman,” Calhoun said.
  Prosecutor Gains Announces Promotions/Office Restructuring  
  May 13, 2021 Edition  
      Mahoning County Prosecutor Paul Gains announces promotions and additions to the office management and structure of the office, including the following---
      Gina DeGenova-Zawrotuk, Chief Assistant Prosecutor, Legal/Public Information Officer; Jennifer McLaughlin, Chief/Criminal Division; Ralph Rivera, Assistant Chief/Criminal Division; Robert Andrews, Senior Trial Counsel and Michael Yacovone, Grand Jury Prosecutor.
      In her new role, Chief Assistant DeGenova-Zawrotuk will be more visible on the criminal side of the office and will work with law enforcement on the many and varied legal issues presented in the criminal division. She will also work with staff, county and township officials, law enforcement agencies, the judicial system, and the public to communicate and implement policies that will facilitate the administration of justice.
      As Public Information Officer, Chief Assistant DeGenova-Zawrotuk will coordinate and manage the Mahoning County Prosecutor’s Office’s communications, public information, media relations, and services.
      Criminal Division Chief McLaughlin and Assistant Chief Rivera will manage the criminal division, including the common pleas court, juvenile court, and the county courts. They will administer office policies regarding all aspects of the criminal division, and implement measures to ensure that the division runs effectively and efficiently. All questions regarding the assignment of cases or any other operational issues of the criminal division should be directed to Chief McLaughlin or, in her absence, Assistant Chief Rivera.
      Senior Trial Counsel Andrews will utilize his thirty-plus-years’ trial experience to mentor and co-counsel with his fellow assistant prosecutors in all five felony division courts. He will also
      spearhead training for assistant prosecutors and law enforcement.
      As the Grand Jury Prosecutor, Attorney Yacovone will review all cases that are bound over
      from the county and municipal courts and all direct presentments. He will also work with local, state and federal law enforcement agencies to prepare cases for presentation to the Grand Jury.
      Attorney Nicholas Modarelli, now in a limited service position, will serve as Law Enforcement Coordinator/Training. In his new role, APA Modarelli will act as the liaison with all law enforcement agencies that work with the Prosecutor’s Office. He will also be working with the lawyers in this office and the law enforcement community to produce training opportunities.
      Although not a change, Chief Trial Counsel Dawn Cantalamessa will continue to be responsible for prosecuting the county’s most serious offenses before all five general division common pleas judges. These cases include, capital murder, homicides, and other high level violent felonies.
      Similarly, Chief Assistant Linette M. Stratford will continue in her role as chief of operations and the Civil Division Chief. Chief Stratford administers the fiscal and operational side of the office. Also, as the chief of the civil division, Chief Stratford along with Assistant Chief Gaglione manage the civil division and implement measures to ensure that the division runs effectively and efficiently and, most importantly, that all of statutory clients are well represented.
  ARP Funding To Ohio Townships In Limbo  
  Ryan’s Office Said Boardman Would Get At Least $7.2 Million:   May 13, 2021 Edition  
     BY JOHN A. DARNELL JR.
      associate editor
      Two months after Congressman Tim Ryan’s office notified U.S. Secretary of the Treasury Janet Yellin about concerns townships in Ohio may be excluded from receipt of subsidies from the American Rescue Plan (ARP), uncertainty still remains about the funding.
      Under the plan, Ryan’s office notified Boardman Township it would be eligible for between $7.2 million and $8.7 million in funding from the ARP under provisions of the act first approved by the U.S. House of Representatives.
      On Mon., May 10, Heidi Fought, executive director of the Ohio Township Association (OTA), said to date, only three of the more than 1,300 townships in Ohio---Colerain, Green and West Chester---would receive ARP funding.
      “Confusion regarding ARP funding [has been] caused by language inconsistencies between bill versions – more specifically, a definition change in the term ‘nonentitlement unit of local government.’ Townships in Ohio (and in several other states) were included during the House process but were left out of the final version of the legislation.
      “Townships have been hit hard economically by COVID-19. If they are not determined eligible for direct funds or provided funds via a transfer from an eligible entity, over one thousand units of local government will be put at a disadvantage when trying to recover from the pandemic’s effects.” Fought said.
      “Treasury plans to provide further guidance on distributions to non-entitlement units in the coming days. The OTA is hopeful that all townships in Ohio will be part of that upcoming guidance and will be considered eligible non-entitlement units of local government,” Fought added.
      Uncertainty over the ARP funding impacts some 54 townships in Rep. Ryan’s district.
      While, for example, Mahoning County is slated to receive some $44 million, and the city of Youngstown will reportedly receive $88.63 million, the 54 townships in Ryan’s district will not receive any ARP funding.
      According to the congressman, under the House-approved version of the ARP, townships in his district were slated to receive a minimum of upwards of $81.624 million.
      Fought suggests “If [more than 1300] Ohio townships are ultimately not determined eligible for direct funds, townships could potentially still receive ARP funds via a voluntary transfer from other eligible entities (like state government), which the OTA has discussed with statewide leaders.”
      Under the CARES Act, okayed during the Trump Administration, Boardman Township received some $2.1 million.
      ‘Minimum’ allocations to townships from the ARP, as Rep. Ryan announced in mid-March to townships in his district included the following:
       •Austintown: $5.64 million
       •Boardman: $7.2 million
       •Poland: $2.65 million
       •Brookfield: $1.553 million
       •Champion: $1.684 million
       •Howland: $3.367 million
       •Hubbard: $2.365 million
       •Jackson: $7.456 million
       •Liberty: $3.841 million
       •Weathersfield: $4.563 million
      In a Mar. 18 letter to Sec. Yellin, Rep. Ryan and Sen. Sherrod Brown urged the Treasury Secretary “to use your discretion to interpret [the ARP] to the fullest extent practicable so that townships receive all the support Congress intended them to receive.
      “After a long and trying year, it is critical we provide this urgent relief to our local governments who are on the front lines serving our communities each and every day.”
      On Tues., Jordan Pennell, of Sen. Brown’s office, said “Funding amounts for non-entitlement units (that includes townships) are presently available only in aggregate at the state level. Treasury expects to provide further guidance on distributions to non-entitlement units in the coming days.
      “A separate announcement will be made next week about townships. Treasury is still working with the Census Bureau to be as inclusive as possible with townships.”
  NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING  
  May 13, 2021 Edition  
     NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING
      The Boardman Township Board of Appeals shall hold a Public Hearing on Tuesday, May 25, 2021 at 7:00 PM, Due to Covid-19, there will also be public access to the meeting via cisco webex. It will be held via conference call to join by phone at +1-408-418-9388 with Meeting number (access code): 132 035 0662 and Password 28752664. To join online, go to https://www.boardmantwp.com/zoning/board-of-zoning-appeals/ for further information for consideration of the following cases:
      APPEAL CASE AC-2021-21
      A Neider Architecture on behalf of Frank Nocera, property owner, 493 Bev Rd. 7a., Boardman, Ohio 44512, requests a variance from the terms of the Boardman Township Zoning Resolution, effective January 1, 2021, Article 4.09-2 Area, Setback, and Other Site Development Standards to reduce the minimum setback from the west property line from ten (10’) feet to one (1’) foot. The property is further known as BLDG 7A BEV RD PROFESSIONAL A CONDOMINIUM (3RD
      AMENDMENT) Parcel 29-037-0-018.11-0. Said property is zoned I-Industrial, in Boardman Township, Mahoning County, State of Ohio.
      APPEAL CASE AC-2021-22
      Mark & Karen Tabachino, property owner, 81 Charles Ave, Boardman, Ohio 44512, requests a variance from the terms of the Boardman Township Zoning Resolution, effective January 1, 2021, Article 6.01 Accessory Use Regulations (E) (2) Accessory Dwelling Units for the addition of an accessory dwelling unit with secondary driveway access. The property is further known as LOT 22 190 X 222.50 REPLAT OF LOTS 22, 7 & 8 TO INCLUDE AREPLAT OF LOT 22 OF THE REPLAT OF LOTS 6 & 22; Parcel 29-032-0-081.00-0. Said property is zoned R1-A-Residential, in Boardman Township, Mahoning County, State of Ohio.
      APPEAL CASE AC-2021-23
      Debbie Parisi on behalf of ALPINE PROPERTIES LLC, property owner, 1214 Shields Rd, Boardman, Ohio 44512, requests a variance from the terms of the Boardman Township Zoning Resolution, effective January 1, 2021, Article 4.07 Permitted Uses (B) (4) Prohibited Uses applying for a use variance to rent out a residentially zoned property for vehicle storage. The property is further known as GL 3 DIV 4 Parcel 29-082-0-012.00-0. Said property is zoned R1-A-Residential, in Boardman Township, Mahoning County, State of Ohio.
      Text and maps of the request may be viewed at the Boardman Township Zoning Office, 8299 Market Street, Boardman, Ohio 44512 Monday through Friday, between the hours of 8:00 AM and 4:00 PM, until time of hearing. Our office is closed to the public so please call 330-726-4181 in requests in advance to be left in the lobby or they may be emailed if requested as well. Please email requests to tdavignon@boardmantwp.com.
      Atty. John F. Shultz, Chairman
      Boardman Township Board of Appeals
      Krista D. Beniston, AICP,
      Director of Zoning and Development
  LEGAL NOTICE TO BIDDERS  
  May 13, 2021 Edition  
     LEGAL NOTICE TO BIDDERS
      Sealed proposals will be received by Mr. Matt McKenzie, Supervisor of Building & Grounds, of the BOARDMAN LOCAL SCHOOL DISTRICT located at 7777 Glenwood Avenue (Boardman High School – Door #16), Boardman, Ohio 44512, until 11:30 a.m. on MONDAY, MAY 17, 2021 and will be publicly opened and immediately read aloud, tabulated, and reported to the Board of Education at its next scheduled meeting thereafter for the following project:
      BOARDMAN LOCAL SCHOOL DISTRICT
      PARKING LOT RESURFACING – 2021
      CENTER INTERMEDIATE SCHOOL
      7410 MARKET STREET
      and
      GLENWOOD JUNIOR HIGH SCHOOL
      7635 GLENWOOD AVENUE
      BOARDMAN, OHIO 44512
      The bid documents will be available at Roller Reprographic Services, 11952 South Avenue, North Lima, Ohio 44452, 330-549-0377, where responsible contractors may obtain printed sets at the cost set forth by the printer.
      A bond or certified check in the amount of 10% of the proposed cost must accompany each proposal as a condition that if a proposal is accepted, a contract will be entered into, and an acceptable bond in the amount of 100% of the contract will be furnished to guarantee performance of the contract in accordance with plans and specifications. The check shall be drawn on a solvent bank account and made payable to the BOARDMAN LOCAL SCHOOL DISTRICT.
      A Pre-Bid Meeting will NOT be held. All bidders are strongly encouraged to visit the site to review the project conditions.
      No bid may be withdrawn for a period of sixty (60) days after closing time for receiving bids.
      Probable base-bid value of construction: $350,000.00.
      All inquiries concerning this bid may be directed by email only to: Thomas A. Madej, AIA, Team 8e Architecture, Email: tmadej@team8e.com
      BOARD OF EDUCATION
      BOARDMAN LOCAL SCHOOL DISTRICT
     
  School Board, Teachers’ Union Agree On New, Two-Year Salary Increase  
  Cost Of Wage Increases Set At $156,223:   May 6, 2021 Edition  
     The Boardman Board of Education unanimously approved an amended contract with the Boardman Education Association at its regular monthly meeting on Monday, April 26. The amended contract allows for a wage increase following the teacher wage freeze agreed upon last year during the uncertainty of the pandemic.
      The future pay hikes come in tandem with a new health insurance package that will enable the district to see substantial savings in healthcare costs.
      Total cost of the wage increases is $156,223 for the two-year period of the contract, according to Boardman Local School Treasurer Terry Armstrong.
      The amended contract will take effect July 1, 2021 and run through June 30, 2023. It includes a 1.5 % pay raise next school year, and a 2% pay raise in the 2022-23 school year.
      “The pay increases for the members of the Boardman Education Association were made possible through the willingness of BEA membership and all Boardman staff members to work with the Board on revisions to health care benefits,” said Armstrong. “It is also very important to note that the district will also realize savings through staff retirements and the district’s retire-rehire program heading into next year.”
      “The value of a teacher has never been more evident than what we have experienced through this pandemic,” said Supt. Tim Saxton. “I respect the fact that our employees understand the uncertainty the pandemic has created and we were able to work together to complete a collective bargaining agreement that addresses change but balances the financial health of the district.”
      The Boardman Education Association ratified the amended agreement prior to its approval by the school board. Approximately 300 teachers comprise the BEA.
      Average annual teacher’s salary at the Boardman Local School system for the 2021-22 school year will be $60,212; and that will increase to $61,417 in 2022-23, Armstrong said.
      “I am proud of the work our staff has done this year with returning to the classroom this fall and teaching both in person and remote students all year. After Gov. DeWine cut Boardman’s funding last year by over $800,000, the teaching staff understood the need to forgo a pay increase at the time. Now, we are fortunate that working together, a fair financial package could be reached.” said Boardman Education Association President Bill Amendol.
      Boardman’s general fund expenses this school year are over $1 million less than anticipated for this year and $1.5 million less than fiscal year 2020.
     
  Southern Park Mall Expands Hours, Welcomes Newest Retail Outlet  
  May 6, 2021 Edition  
     Southern Park Mall has expanded its hours of operation, effective May 1 to include Mondays thru Fridays, from 11:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m.; and on Sundays, from 11:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. On Saturdays, Southern Park will remain open from 11:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m.
      “Southern Park Mall’s newly expanded hours will allow guests more time to safely dine, shop and enjoy the town center. The town center looks forward to welcoming guests to Southern Park Mall and continuing to create safe, memorable experiences for the community,” said marketing director Christina Cleary.
      Last Saturday, Southern Park Mall cut the ribbons on its newest retail store, Macy’s Backstage, with the first 200 customers receiving a $10 giftcard. There was also a spin the wheel for free prizes like umbrellas, lip balm, hand sanitizer, water bottles and much more!
      Macy’s Backstage offers fashion-loving customers another way to shop at their favorite store by providing a store-within-store shopping experience.
      Macy’s Backstage is located on the second floor of Macy’s at Southern Park and offers a shopping experience featuring significant savings on top-quality products that include fresh product from both new and established brands. Shoppers can expect savings on apparel for men, women and children, as well as deals on an assortment of housewares, home textiles and décor, cosmetics, hair and nail care, gifts, jewelry, shoes, designer handbags, accessories and active wear.
      “The merchandise at Macy’s Backstage is always changing with shipments arriving daily,” Cleary said.
  OPINION  
  Our Great Boardman Police Department!:   April 29, 2021 Edition  
      Six decades ago, Boardman Township was beginning to change from a sleepy ‘bedroom’ community of Youngstown to the hub of retail activity in Mahoning County.
      With that transition, our local Boardman Township Police Department began to modernize its use of technology, and manpower was increased in an effort to deal with the changing times.
      Fast forward to today, and the admonitions of previous leadership at the Boardman Police Department rings clear---“We better be prepared for what’s coming.”
      Police in Boardman Township today deal with issues---time and time again---that police here rarely dealt with 60 years ago---particularly drug abuse and all the thefts and absurd behavior related to addiction; as well as addicts and drug dealers and other unsavory types of humanity who seem to come to Boardman Township hostelries. It seems more often than not that issues arise when police presence is requested to deal with people who have little or no respect for the concept of law and order. And often, these people who call for the police, refuse to provide statements on the issue at hand.
      For what it’s worth, Boardman Township police are well-trained and very professional, despite the overwhelming number of calls during which they deal with absurd behavior and court decisions that place criminals back on the streets all to soon.
      We take an extreme amount of pride in the professional development of the Boardman Police Department as it moved into the 21st Century with the exception of dropping accreditation of the gold standard in public safety---The Commission on Accreditation for Law Enforcement Agencies, Inc. (CALEA).
      Our police have earned, and deserve the full support of our community!
  Attorney Claims Man With Loaded Handgun (One In The Chamber) Did Not Pose A Threat When He Fled From Police, Was Tased And Arrested After Passing Fake $100 Bill Given To Him By A Friend  
  April 22, 2021 Edition  
     Mar. 30, 2020: Dominique O’Neal King, also known as Malcom Beattee, 28, of 137 Jean St., Campbell, Oh., was arrested by Ptl. Daryn Tallman, Ptl. Shannon Chaffee and Ptl. Shawn McClellan and charged with criminal simulation, robbery, felony drug abuse, obstruction, resisting arrest, carrying a concealed weapon and having a weapon under a disability. Police were sent to the Speedway gas station, 649 East Midlothian Blvd., for a person trying to pass a phony $100 bill. Police said during their investigation, the “suspect lied about his identity, then fled on foot after he was told he was under arrest. After a short foot pursuit, the suspect was taken into custody after he was tased and dropped to the ground.” A loaded handgun fell out of his waistband while police were
      handcuffing him. Police found hypodermic needles and a scheduled drug on the
      suspect’s person.
      From an official Boardman Police Department report of Mar. 30, 2020
     
      BY JOHN A. DARNELL JR.
      associate editor
      Dominique King, now 29, of 838 Ohio Ave., Youngstown, Oh., has filed suit seeking a jury trial seeking upwards of $300,000 in compensatory damages, as well as punitive and exemplary damages stemming from his Mar. 30, 2020 arrest by Boardman police at a Speedway gas station on East Midlothian Blvd.
      The suit, filed by Atty. Nomiki Tsarnas, of Kistling, Nestico and Redick in Poland, Oh., says that King, “continues to suffer from the harms” that resulted from his arrest. He is still awaiting a trial on charges of robbery, having weapons under a disability, carrying a concealed weapon, felony possession of drugs, counterfeiting, falsification, escape, resisting arrest and obstruction stemming from his arrest.
      King was bound over to a Mahoning County Grand Jury by Boardman Court Judge Joseph Houser on Oct. 27,2020.
      “Testimony and exhibits introduced caused the belief the crime alleged has been committed,” Judge Houser said on Oct. 27. King bonded out of jail ($1,500) the following day, according to court records.
      Atty. Tsarnas claims in the complaint that King did not pose any threat to (police), and the police “were unaware King possessed a weapon until he was loaded into an ambulance.”
      Tsarnas also claims police violated use of force guidelines “by utilizing a taser on King while engaged in a pursuit for a non-violent crime” and should have known using a taser “should result in pain and harm to King.” Tsarnas claims the use of force was “excessive.”
      Counsel for King says after he passed a fake $100 bill at Speedway, he told police he had “received multiple counterfeit bills as payment from a friend.” Tsarnas said King did not realize the $100 bill was a fake.
      Tsarnas says police followed him to his car at Speedway “preventing him from leaving,” and that as King “walked eastwards,” he was struck with a taser and thrown against the pavement, causing multiple injuries, including fractures to his clavicle, a fracture to his spine and brain bleeding.
      Counsel for Tsarnas claims “this excessive force and the injuries to the bodily integrity was the result of the deliberate indifference” of police as well as “policymakers (who) failed to adopt, maintain and enforce adequate policies, procedures and training.”
      Tsarnas says the court action was brought “for battery and violation of [King’s] rights of procedural due process, equal protection and against cruel and unusual punishment guaranteed under the Fourth, Eighth and Fourteenth Amendments of the Constitution of the United States,” and claiming King has suffered serious and permanent physical injuries as a result of this excessive force.”
      March 30, 2020
      At 9:22 p.m., two Boardman police officers were dispatched to Speedway Gas, 649 East Midlothian Blvd., to assist in dealing with a man who had just passed a phony $100 bill at the business.
      The suspect told police his name was Malcolm Beattee, and he had recently moved to Campbell, Oh. from Indianapolis, Ind.
      According to Officer Daryn Tallman, King said he had no idea that $100 bill was not real.
      “A friend of mine owed me $150, so he gave me two, $100 bills and I gave him $50 back,” King told police, noting his friend lived in Brownlee Woods. The friend, according to police, was a possible suspect in passing a fake $100 bill on Mar. 19 at Wedgewood Pizza, 6200 South Ave.
      “We were initially going to take pictures of King, confiscate the fake $100 bills and write a report so criminal simulation charges could be filed,” Officer Tallman said, adding “and then release him on a summons after soft-booking at the scene.”
      Officer Tallman said once this was explained to King, he “began to get visibly agitated, repeatedly saying how he had to get to work at the Schwebel Baking Co. before 10:00 p.m., or he would lose his job.
      “We told him he would be released as soon as possible, and I would escort him to work to explain to the manager why he was late.”
      King was being escorted by police to a cruiser, when he said he had to get his phone out of his truck.
      “I explained to him that he could get his phone after we were done, and he was now under arrest and to comply.
      “At this time, King ran on foot...through the lot and was reaching into the right side of his waistband. I attempted to grab onto King, but he was able to get past my grasp,” Officer Tallman said, adding “Police gave chase and yelling several times, ‘Stop or you’ll be tased.’”
      A first taser was fired at King, but had no effect,” Officer Tallman said, noting that King continued to run, despite warnings he would be tased.
      A second taser was fired at King and he fell to the ground, striking his head on the paved lot, Officer Tallman said.
      “We got to King and began handcuffing him when a silver, semi-automatic handgun fell out of the right side of his waistband,” Officer Tallman said, noting the weapon had eight bullets loaded into the magazine, as well as one round in the chamber.
      A rolled-up white sock tucked into King’s underwear waistband contained several hypodermic needles, and a single pill of a scheduled drug, alprazolam, was found in his right sock, Officer Tallman said.
      At this point, King told police his real name, and as police noted, another hypodermic needle was found in his left jacket pocket.
      King was then transported to St. Elizabeth Hospital in Youngstown.
      King was found to be driving a pick-up truck owned by a female. When the woman was asked if King worked at Schwebel’s. “She laughed and said ‘no,’” Officer Tallman said, adding the woman said King “is known to use his brother’s information when he gets into trouble.”
      At the time of his Mar. 30, 2020 arrest, police were told King had three active warrants on him---One for failing to appear on a traffic offense issued out of Campbell; one for failing to appear on a disorderly conduct charge issued out of Geneva, Oh,; and another for theft, issued out of Youngstown.
      “King’s criminal history revealed that he had a felony drug conviction (possession of heroin), that elevated his charge for possession of the alprazolam pill to a fifth degree felony; and a charge of possession of drug abuse instruments to a first degree misdemeanor; and placed King under a disability to possess a weapon,” Officer Tallman said.
      Possession of Heroin
      In late 2011, King was charged with possession of heroin. In Aug., 2013, he was found guilty of the charge
      Judge John Durkin sentenced King to 10 months in prison on the charge, noting “The court finds that King is not amenable to community control and a prison sentence is consistent with the Ohio Revised Code.”
      King was represented in the case by a lawyer appointed at public cost. Becasue of his indigency, Judge Durkin suspended any fines and costs related to the case.
  Kira Vasko Holden Scholarship Winner  
  April 22, 2021 Edition  
Kira Vasko
      The WKBN 27 Caring for Our Community campaign has named Boardman High School junior Kira Vasko, at right, the winner of the $1,500 Tom Holden Memorial Scholarship contest.
      Nearly 150 students from Mahoning, Trumbull, Columbiana and Mercer counties wrote public service announcements for local nonprofit organizations.
      The winning script will be produced by WKBN, featuring the Down Syndrome Association of the Valley and will be able to be seen throughout the year on WKBN 27 and FOX Youngstown.
      A third place winner in the contest was Boardman High School senior Alayna Cuevas. Her entry featured the YMCA of the Mahoning Valley.
  Community Leader And Former Mahoning County GOP Chairman Clarence R. ‘Sonny’ Smith, 92, Dies  
  April 14, 2021 Edition  
Clarence Smith
     Y JOHN A. DARNELL JR.
      associate editor
      Former Chairman of Compco Industries and former Mahoning County Republican Chair man, Clarence R. ‘Sonny’ Smith, 92, died Tues., Apr. 13 at Briarfield at Ashley Circle.
      He also operated Adamas Gem Shop at Market St. and McClurg Rd., and Diamond Steel for many years.
      He served as county GOP chieftain from 1998 to 2010; and was a member of the Mahoning County Board of Elections from June, 1998 to Jan. 7, 2013.
      Active in the community, Mr. Smith was a strong supporter of Youngstown State University and Boardman High School, Sister Jerome’s ministries, Native American Indians, Boy Scouts and many civic concerns.
      At YSU, he was a major contributor to Penguin sports programs and played a major role in philanthropic efforts to raise funds for the construction of Stambaugh Stadium. Mr. Smith served as the co-chair of the Stambaugh Stadium project and was instrumental in the brick campaign.
      A frequent traveler, Mr. Smith, like his father, began acquiring geological specimens from all over the world. By 1962, he and his father had amassed enough pieces to open their own rock shop, Adamas Art and Hobby Shop, within a barn at his home in Boardman. 40 years later, he donated his extensive mineral collection to Youngstown State, where the Clarence R. Smith Mineral Musuem was established.
      During dedication ceremonies for the museum, Mr. Smith noted “The people of the Mahoning Valley need to do all that we can for our youth, striving to give them the greatest opportunities possible.”
      By his deeds and actions, he did just that his entire life.
      He capped the effort to erect a Veterans Memorial in Boardman Park with the donation of an Eagle sculpture that graces the memorial today.
      Five years ago, Mr. Smith was asked if he wanted to buy an American Flag as part of a fund-raising effort to refurbish flags that fly along Market St. in Boardman, from Memorial Day to Labor Day. Without hestitation, he provided funding for all the American flags that line the roadway.
      Clarence R. Smith was the first president of Boardman Little League in 1955, often-times showing-up to umpire games, first played at West Blvd. Elementary School and in Boardman Park. He helped merge Boardman Little League and Boardman Youth Baseball into one organization, Boardman Community Baseball, joining soon thereafter with Dr. John York to lead the developmment of the Fields of Dreams, one of the largest youth baseball complexes east of the Mississippi River.
      A former member of Boardman United Methodist Church, Mr. Smith, worked Rev. Norman Crewson to lead the effort there to build a new sanctuary for the church in the 1966 at the corner of Market St. and Buena Vista.
      When he and his wife relocated to Lake Tomahawk a decade ago, he joined Greenford Christian Church, prompty donating a 10-ton, 35-ft. steel cross to the church so families could gather at the site to pray and reflect. But Mr. Smith thought the cross needed proper landscaping, so he contacted David Collins at Diamond Steel. The company had to use a 150-ton crane to appropriately transport and place huge boulders at the site, much to the pleasure of Mr. Smith.
      In the late 1990s, he donated 11-plus acres of land to Boardman Township for the construction of the Boardman Township Government Center.
      As a longtime member and former Chairman of the Boardman Local School Board, Mr. Smith helped to lead the effort to build a new Boardman High School on Glenwood Ave.
      Some four decades later, in 1999, he and his company aided the Auditorium 2000 drive to build a 1,600-seat auditorium at Boardman High School, including the creation of the studio for the Boardman Schools Television Network (BSTN).
      In partnership with his lifelong best friend, Joe Dickey, the pair quietly supported a variety of Masonic and community efforts, including establishment of the 32-degree Masonic Chldren’s Learning Center that was dedicated to understanding and helping children with dyslexia; as well as support for inner-city schools in Youngstown.
      For Mr. Smith, life was about humility and family, with whom he always took special enjoyment in spending Sundays every summer with his great-grandchildren and family at Lake Tomahawk in Columbiana County.
      He never sought credit or publicity, preferring to speak about Christianity and politics (what a mix), planting trees, and of course, family.
      Sonny Smith was born July 10, 1928 in Boardman, the son of Clarence and Lottie Virginia Smith Sr.
      He attended Valley Forge Military Academy, and then graduated from Boardman High School in 1947. He attended Kenyon College, but his time there was cut short when he returned to Boardman to operate Diamond Steel Construction due to illness in the family when he was a junior at the college.
      Diamond Steel was founded in 1928 by Mr. Smith’s father, Clarence, Sr. Under ‘Sonny’s leadership, other opportunities came along involving manufacturing lawn mower decks forSears, aluminum window frames and industrial pipe hangers.
      A pipe hanger venture led to formation of Compco Industries, which soon began manufacturing tank heads for pressure vessels, including air compressors, propane storage, water tanks and many other applications. For many years the company was located at 85 East Hylda in Youngstown, before moving its headquarters to Columbiana, where it has acquired several, smaller steel fabricating firms.
      Most important to Sonny was his faith in God and his love for family and country. He often remarked that he considered his employees part of his family. He turned down numerous offers to sell the business as he wanted to take care of his Compco family.
      During his more than seven decades in private business, he led various companies, including Diamond Steel (founded by his father in 1926), Compco Industries, Compco Land Co., C&S Land Co., Buckeye Manufacturing Company, Diamond Metals Corporation and Adamas Jewelry & Gifts.
      He served on the board of the Home Savings and Loan Association, Mahoning National Bank and was a member of the Mahoning Valley Council of Churches and Organization of Protestant Men.
      Some of his civic responsibilites included The Youngstown Area Chamber of Commerce, advisor to Goodwill Industries, member of the Board of Directors of Boys Scouts of America, Camp Stambaugh, member of the Board of Directors Mahoning County Library, member of the Western Reserve Port Authority and a member of the Board of Directors of the Children’s Learning Center through the Valley of Scottish Rite, and member of the Boardman Civic Association. He was a former member of the Boardman Rotary Club and Boardman Kiwanis Club.
      Mr. Smith was an honorary member of the Buckeye Elks Lodge No. 7, named Man of the Year by the Boardman Civic Association, and was a recipient of the Private Sector Business Award from the Better Business Bureau.
      He was a recipient of Scouting’s highest honor, the Silver Award, in recognition to his support for the Whispering Pines District/Boy Scouts of America,
      He was a former member of the Youngstown Club and Tippecanoe Country Club, and a current member of Salem Golf Club.
      Active in the Masonic Fraternity, he was a member of Western Star Lodge #21 F.&A.M. of Ohio, a 33rd Degree Mason of the Ancient Accepted Scottish Rite, Valley of Youngstown, the York Rite Bodies of Youngstown, Al Koran Shrine in Cleveland, The Youngstown Shrine Club, Cleveland Court #14 Royal Order of Jesters, and Aut Mori Grotto.
      In 2002, Mr. Smith was honored as the 2002 Penguin of the Year, as chosen by the Youngstown State University Penguin Club.
      Sonny and his wife, Rose Marie (Poschner), celebrated their 70th wedding anniversary on Wed., June 17, 2020, with a family celebration at their home.
      He is preceded in death by his parents, and his first son, Clarence ‘Smitty’ Smith III, and three sisters, Jackie Botch, Elsie McLane and Margaret Turnbull.
      In addition to his wife, he leaves twin daughters, Gwen (John) Darnell, and Gail Smith; and son Greg (Nancy) Smith; six grandchildren Rick (Christy) Kamperman; Kim (Tom) Varley; Brad (Ashley) Smith; C. Roman Smith IV; Skyler Smith; and Reagan Smith, and his greatest joys---six great grandchildren, Jacob and Ryan Kamperman; and Alayna, Tommy, Jayse and Adalynn Varley; and a nephew, John (Marcia) Botch.
      During his later years, Mr. Smith would often reminisce about Boardman Township and the many civic endeavors in which he loved to participate.
      Recalling the building of the Fields or Dreams, he would sometimes say---“Since we built that place, just think about all the families that have come together, watching their kids. It’s not about the sports, it’s about all those families who get together. Isn’t that something!”
      The family has requested that memorial tributes take the form of donations to the “Clarence R. Smith Mineral Museum” at Youngstown State University. Please make checks payable to the Youngstown State University Foundation, 655 Wick Ave. Youngstown, Oh., 44502; or Hospice of the Valley, 5190 Market St., Boardman, Oh., 44512.
      The family would like to thank Ed and Diane Reese and all the wonderful and compassionate staff at Briarfield Place at Ashley Circle for their care given to Mr. Smith; as well as the staff of Hospice of the Valley.
      A memorial service will be held on Sat., Apr. 24 at 11:00 a.m. at Greenford Christian Church, 11767 Lisbon Rd., Greenford, Oh. 44422.
  Trustees Await Word On Stimulus Monies  
  Do Townships Qualify For Funds?:   April 14, 2021 Edition  
     BY JOHN A. DARNELL JR.
      associate editor
      Boardman Township has not received word on whether it qualifies for funding from the American Rescue Act (ARA) signed into law by President Joe Biden.
      Meeting on Monday night, Township Administrator Jason Loree told Trustees Brad Calhoun, Larry Moliterno and Tom Costello “We still have no word if the township qualifies for ARA funding,” noting as announced by U.S. Rep Tim Ryan, that Boardman Township is supposed to receive between $7.24 million and $8.7 million in ARA funds.
      The American Rescue Act of 2021 provides relief to address the continued impact of COVID-19 (i.e., coronavirus disease 2019) on the economy, public health, state and local governments, individuals and businesses.
      The city of Youngstown is supposed to receive some $75 million, while Mahoning County government will receive $44 million from the ARA.
      “National and state township associations have been addressing the matter,” Loree said, noting that eight states, including Illinois and Texas, have the same issue with ARA funds as Boardman Township.
      “Our federal representative (Rep. Tim Ryan) said we would get $8 million. The version that passed the U.S. House of Representatives included funding for townships. But the version of the bill passed in the U.S. Senate changed the language,” Calhoun said, adding “that money could be used not only for salaries, but infrastructure projects.”
      “The law requires the Treasury Department to make a decision by mid-May,” Loree said.
      Trustees urged Loree to contact Rep. Ryan’s office about the matter.
      In March, Rep. Ryan and Sen. Sherrod Brown sent a letter to Treasury Secretary Janet Yellen, urging her to pay “particular attention to language in the ARA (stimulus bill) to ensure townships across the country will be eligible for direct relief” provided to states, cities and villages under provisions of the measure.
      Heidi Fought, director of the Ohio Township Association (OTA), said last month, “What this means is that, unless Treasury updates its interpretation, or definitions are clarified, Ohio townships will not be receiving money directly under this bill.”
      Rep. Ryan and Sen. Brown said the ARA plan “gives discretion to the extent to which…townships are eligible” and urged Sec. Yellen “to use your discretion to the fullest extent practicable to that townships receive all the support Congress intended them to receive.”
      The federal legislators noted Ohio’s 1308 townships are responsible for maintaining 41,000 miles of roads and streets, as well as managing 2,400 cemeteries.
      Under the Trump Administration’s CARES Act, Boardman Township received some $2.1 million.
  COVID VACCINATION CLINIC AT SOUTHERN PARK MALL  
  Check www.mahoninghealth.org or call 330-270-2855:   April 1, 2021 Edition  
     Mahoning County Public Health announces the opening of appointments for the area’s regional mass vaccination clinic at the former Dillard’s Department Store at the Southern Park Mall.
      The Johnson and Johnson vaccine will be available at this clinic and applicants must be 18 years of age or older to receive this vaccine. “Mahoning County Public Health’s clinics have been efficient and streamlined thanks to our staff and community partners. We welcome anyone in our region to register with us for a vaccine,” Health Commissioner Ryan Tekac stated.
      Appointment times for the first clinic to be held on Thursday, April 1 can be made through MCPH’s scheduling system, ArmorVax, which can be found at www.mahoninghealth.org. For those needing assistance with the online scheduling system, call 330-270-2855 Option 9.
      Additional appointment dates and times will be made available each week based on demand.
  National Honor Society Selections Recognized At Boardman High School  
  April 1, 2021 Edition  
     Boardman High School held National Honor Society inductions on Wed., Mar. 25. Inducted were:
      Cora Ams, Elizabeth Amstutz, Ethan Andersen, Theodore Anzevino, Jonah Bacho, Kylie Barnes, Haley Beish, Jared Benko, Salvatore Buonamici, Raegan Burkey, Gillian Canacci, Morgan Cherne, Michael Cicchillo, Samuel Cicchillo, Carlo Cordon, Alayna Cuevas, Gia Ditullio, Isabelle Dwyer, Kara Eliser, Kailey Engleman, Nathan Fleming, Makenna Glaser, Julia Gorby, Yara Habo, Shayne Harris, Alannah Hetzel, Noah Holdridge, Samuel Holter, Jake Hughes, Jenna Hughes, Surbi Jain,
      Landon Kilpatrick, Lilly Klisiewicz, Madilyn Larch, Anthony Micco, Bonnie Missos. Madelyn Moran, Maura Murphy, Ryleigh Neill, Vinh Nguyen, Kathryn O’Horo, Emily Olexa, Heidi Partlow, Tara Pasvanis, Syrenna Ramahi, Fatima Rehman, Signe Renstrom, Aeva Richard, TaJuan Richards, Emily Rutledge, Andrew Schrembeck, Allyson Schwendeman, Priya Shah, Katie Stamp, Marco Stilliana, Ranean Sulebi, Aiden Swavel, Ryan Sweder, Guy Tepsick, Emma Tokarsky, Maria Torres, Ty Ventresco, Grace Wieser and Christine Zheng.
  Boardman Native Laurie Henes Named ACC Coach Of Year For Fifth Straight Year  
  April 1, 2021 Edition  
     GREENSBORO, NC---Head coach Laurie Henes was named ACC Women’s Cross Country Head Coach of the Year for the fifth-straight year. Under her leadership, the North Carolina State women’s cross country team claimed its fifth-consecutive ACC team title and finished in second place at the NCAA cross country championships.
      Henes was also named United States Track & Field and Cross Country Coaches Association (USTFCCCA) Southeast Region Head Coach of the Year for the fifth year in a row
      Laurie (Gomez) Henes, is a 1988 Boardman High School graduate and six-time Ohio track and cross-country champion for the Lady Spartans.
      Henes has been the women’s head cross-country coach at North Carolina State University since 2006.
  Blue Wolf Tavern Turns Corner On 20th Year In Business  
  March 25, 2021 Edition  
     For the last two decades, Blue Wolf Tavern, located at 1295 Boardman-Canfield Rd., has served the Mahoning Valley. This year, the restaurant that first opened in Struthers in 2001 celebrates 20 years in business.
      First opening in a smaller community like Struthers, Executive Chef Joe Rzonsa knew that a high-end restaurant would have to pull its market from all of the local communities. And the support from those communities played a large role in the restaurant’s success, according to Rzonsa.
      The family-owned restaurant expanded and moved to its current location in Boardman in June 2004. Rzonsa said the support remained strong. And with more space, resources and exposure, the restaurant was able to provide more jobs to the community.
      While he takes great pride in the restaurant’s 20 years of success, the most rewarding thing to happen during that time was meeting his wife, Stacey, who played a pivotal role in the expansion of Blue Wolf Events into a premier event company in 2011. She is the vice president of Blue Wolf Tavern and director of Blue Wolf Events.
      “This journey has given me a family and a career that I love,” said Stacey. “The success we’ve had is the perfect cherry on top. It’s a great feeling to know that the work Joe and I have done is paying off. And the most fulfilling part is that we’ve done it as a family.”
      In 2014, Blue Wolf Events moved to the Maronite Center to continue its planning and catering events. As director, Stacey is proud of their reputation to deliver intimate and exquisite experiences for all special occasions.
      “The community was behind us when we moved to Boardman,” said Joe Rzonsa. “Struthers and other communities followed us to our current location and were happy about our success and expansion. We couldn’t be where we are today without all the support we’ve gotten. And that’s not just the people that eat here, but it’s also the people that work here and trust us with their livelihoods. The people make us who we are.”
      Rzonsa originally envisioned an establishment with great-tasting food, using fresh and homegrown ingredients. Fast-forward 20 years, and the family-owned restaurant has accomplished exactly that.
      Instead of focusing on a single type of cuisine, Blue Wolf offers a diverse, farm-to-fork menu. Offering award-winning handcrafted recipes, Joe believes that the consistency of the food and staff have carried them the whole way.
      “We’ve done things pretty consistently over the past 20 years,” said Joe. “There have been some small changes to our menus and recipes, but for the most part we do the same thing we did 20 years ago, and we still do it as good as we did then.”
      Experiencing business after the events of 9/11 in 2001 to enduring the COVID-19 pandemic in 2020, Joe said there have been obstacles since day one. But reflecting on the peaks and valleys allows him to put the last 20 years in perspective.
      “It’s kind of bittersweet because you think of all the trying times and long hours,” said Joe. “But then you think of all the great successes. I know how long I want to do this for, and I know the kind of legacy we want to leave. These 20 years have been such an important part of my life.”
     
   
  March 25, 2021 Edition  
     AMONG THREE BOARDMAN POLICE OFFICERS who have entered the township’s retire-rehire program are for Bicycle Patrol Officers Rick Balog and Chuck Hillman. Balog, at left, now a lieutenant, began his career with the BPD on Sept. 9, 1990; while Hillman, at right, now a sergeant, began his career at Boardman on Aug. 26, 1990. During the late 1990s, the local police department had a two-man bicycle unit that would provide increased visibility in neighborhoods. Under the retire/rehire program, Boardman Township will save about $87,000 in wages and benefits. Also retiring under the program is Sgt. Mike Hughes, head of the BPD’s Narcotics Enforcement Unit (NEU).
  WRIGHT PATTERSON AIRMAN OF THE YEAR  
  March 25, 2021 Edition  
U.S. AIR FORCE STAFF Sergeant Ian Guthridge
     U.S. AIR FORCE STAFF Sergeant Ian Guthridge, who enlisted for military duty on the day of his graduation from Boardman High School in 2008, has been named Airman of the Year for 2020 at Wright Patterson AFB in Dayton. SSGT Guthridge is the non-commissioned officer in charge of the 88th Security Forces Squadron’s supply and logistics. He is responsible for all 11 security forces buildings at the Air Force base, as well as associated orders and upkeep of the facilities. He is the son of Mark and Lori Guthridge.
  Officials Express Concern Language In Stimulus Bill Could Exclude Townships From Receiving Funding  
  At Stake For Boardman: Between $7.24 Million And $8.2 Million :   March 18, 2021 Edition  
     BY JOHN A. DARNELL JR.
      associate editor
      Boardman Township could get upwards of between $7.24 million and $8.2 million in funding from the so-called $1.9 trillion stimulus relief package signed into law by President Joe Biden last week---or maybe not.
      According to the Ohio Township Association (OTA) “At the local, state and federal levels, there are conflicting reports on whether Ohio townships will directly receive funds from the American Rescue Plan (HR 1319), due to changes made between the House and Senate versions of the legislation. The bill allocates $350 billion to states and local governments.”
      “We received official word that Ohio townships (and a couple other states) are potentially not included in the latest COVID relief bill,” Heidi Fought, director of the OTA said, adding “There is an issue with a definition that has caused this problem and it could possibly depend on how the Treasury Dept. interprets the language.
      “What this means is that, unless Treasury updates its interpretation or definitions are clarified, Ohio townships would not be receiving money under this bill directly.”
      Boardman Township Administrator Jason Loree told The Biardman News he has contacted U.S. Congressman Tim Ryan’s office repeatedly about the matter and as of Mon., Mar. 15, had not received a response.
      “Rep. Ryan knows this is a problem,” Loree said, adding if the township does get new stimulus funding, it is at present, unknown how that money will be spent.
      “We don’t know yet, what the rules are for spending the newest round of stimulus money,” Loree said.
      “The Ohio Township Association (OTA) is working around the clock with Ohio’s Congressional delegation and the Biden Administration to ensure that the U.S. Treasury interprets Ohio’s 1,308 townships as eligible nonentitlement units of local government for this critical funding. According to the 2010 Census, at least four million Ohioans reside in a township; relief funds are crucial to helping those communities recover from the effects of the pandemic,” Fought said.
      Under the Trump Administration, Boardman Township received about $2.1 million in stimulus funding. According to Loree, about half of that money was spent on equipment and supplies, and the rest was used to support payroll.
      According to information from the Ohio Township Association, other area townships included in the newest round of stimulus funding include Austintown, between $6.5 million and $7.817 million; Howland, between $3.367 million and $4.048 million; and Poland Township, between $2.65 million and $3.186 million.
  $1.5 Million Set To Address Township Drainage Issues  
  March 18, 2021 Edition  
     BY JOHN A. DARNELL JR.
      associate editor
      Meeting on Monday night, Boardman Township Trustees indicated more than $1.5 million will be spent this year addressing surface water issues in the township. Upwards of 80 per cent of those monies will be provided through grants from the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) and the Army Corps of Engineers.
      Much of the work is designed to address drainage issues in the Boardman Lake and Wildwood Dr. areas, as well as Cranberry Run, that flows into Mill Creek.
      Trustees approved the Davey Resource Group to provide engineering and construction management services, including site grading, stream restoration and landscaping in the Boardman Lake/Wildwood Dr. area where it is expected four homes will be razed by the end of June and those sites will be restored to what Boardman Road Superintendent Marilyn Kenner said will be “a park like setting.”
      The contract with Davey approved by Trustees was for $45,250. Of that, the ABC Stormwater District will provide a local match for $5,656.
      Kenner said the cost of the overall project will be $998,000, of which $125,000 will be paid from ABC funds, with the balance coming from FEMA grants.
      Additionally, the Army Corps of Engineers has agreed to a $100,000 grant for a ‘stream modeling project’ along Cranberry Run; and according to Kenner, the state of Ohio has agreed to provide a capital grant of $500,000 to address surface water issues impacting Cranberry Run at Market St. Elementary School.
      Township Administrator Jason Loree told Trustees the ABC Stormwater District is expected award a surface water project for Glenridge Dr., and as well, the district will soon conduct an aerial survey that will provide storm water modeling data designed to address drainage issues.
      “We continue to seek outside funding to help improve the infrastructure of our community. We are dedicated to working on addressing as many of the problem areas of the township with regard to drainage and this outside funding (grants) will allow the township to make a major difference,” Brad Calhoun, chairman of the township’s Board of Trustees, said.
      Kenner told Trustees more than 10 miles of township road will be resurfaced this year at a cost of about $1 million. That work will be funded with assistance of about $350,000 provided from Ohio Public Works grants, Kenner said.
      Police Chief Todd Werth told Trustees that three officers will remain with his department under provisions of a retire-rehire program. They are Lt. Richard Balog, Sgt. Chuck Hillman Jr. and Sgt. Mike Hughes, head of the Narcotics Enforcement Unit (NEU). Under terms of the program, the township will save about $87,000 through reductions in salary and benefits, Chief Werth said.
      In other matters, Trustees adopted nuisance resolutions for properties at 8551 Crossroads Dr. and 101 Shields Rd., ordering those sites to be cleaned-up.
      $35,288 was approved for the purchase of ammunition and replacement service pistols for the police department.
  Public Invited To 117th Annual Memorial Day Services On Mon., May 31 In Boardman Park  
  March 18, 2021 Edition  
      On Memorial Day, 2020, Boardman Kiwanian Mark Luke stood alone in Boardman Cemetery where he delivered the 116th annual Memorial Day address. There was no parade, no gathering at Boardman Park, due to concerns with the coronavirus. Memorial Day, 2021, will be different. Although there will again be no parade (due to concerns with the virus), there will be the 117th annual Boardman Memorial Day service at the Maag Outdoor Arts Theater in Boardman Park on Mon., May 31 at 10:00 a.m. to which the public can attend. “We will honor those who have served, are serving and those who gave the ultimate sacrifice while in military service to our country,” Mark Luke, a Memorial Day coordinator and president of the Boardman Kiwanis Club said, adding “We invite all veterans and community members to join as we recognize, remember and express our solemn thankfulness to our military forces who preserve our way of life.”
  At $75/Hour Disengaged, Remote Elementary Students Offered Counseling To Help Them Return To ‘In-Person’ Class  
  Student Engagement Specialist Assigned To West Blvd., Stadium Dr. And Robinwood Lane Schools:   March 11, 2021 Edition  
     BY JOHN A. DARNELL JR.
      associate editor
      Meeting in January, the Boardman Local School Board unanimously gave its approval to an addendum to an existing contract with the Alta Care Group to provide counseling services to “bring back disengaged, remote students” to the system’s three elementary schools at a cost $75/hour, not to exceed $22,500.
      The local school district said “it is expected that the results of the services provided under the addendum will support the potential attendance demands that comes from Gov. Mike DeWine’s anticipation of a return to in-person learning by Mar. 1.”
      Specifically, according to the addendum, an elementary student engagement specialist will be assigned to each elementary school building, Robinwood Lane, West Boulevard and Stadium Drive.
      The specialist is directed to communicate with school staff and parents/guardians “regarding attendance and performance issues of ‘identified’ students,” as well as “explore barriers to education and in-person or remote learning, and offer tours and ‘demo’ protocols to parents and or guardians in an effort to “facilitate experiences to increase student/family comfort in returning to the school building.”
      Another goal of the program is to bring back low performing remote students to in-person learning by coaching students with organization and study habits in the classroom, and to develop a homework planner shared between the school and home.
      Under terms of the addendum approved by the school board, the Alta Care Group must complete its services no later Apr. 30; and the school system agreed to provide access to all “personnel and documents reasonable necessary for the performance of the care group’s duties.”
  Slavic Festival on YouTube  
  March 11, 2021 Edition  
Marta Mazur of Krakus Polish Deli and Bakery
     SLAVIC FESTIVAL ON YOUTUBE: While the coronavirus pandemic has cancelled the annual Simply Slavic Festival in downtown Youngstown this June, Simply Slavic has found another way to continue its mission. In lieu of the in-person festival, the group has announced the release of its Slavic Educational Video Series on its YouTube channel. Funded in part by a grant from The International Institute Funds of The Community Foundation of the Mahoning Valley, the eight-part series will present various culturally entertaining, educational, and just plain fun videos for children and adults. “While we yearn to be together in food, song, and dance in downtown Youngstown, our board and volunteers felt that we need to look beyond June, 2021 to have an event that minimizes risk for our attendees and is welcoming to all,” said John Slanina, Simply Slavic Board President. “In the meantime, we hope these videos offer an opportunity to enjoy this colorful culture in your homes with your families.” Viewers can learn how to dance the kolo, a circle dance popular in the Southern Slavic nations; and the polka, the Northern Slavic national dance. They can observe the tips and tricks of making the perfect stuffed cabbage from Marta Mazur (pictured) of Krakus Polish Deli and Bakery, 7050 Market St. in Boardman. In addition, celebrated local author, Loretta Ekoniak, will share her deep knowledge of Slovak history in the Mahoning Valley.
  People In Boardman Have No Problems and Fears About The Community In Which They Live  
  From March 12-18, 1987 Issue of The Boardman News:   March 4, 2021 Edition  
     PEOPLE IN BOARDMAN have little or no problems and fears about the community in which they live, according to a recently completed study done for the Mahoning County Planning Commission. As the chart reflects, most issues raised in the study, conducted by the Youngstown State University Center for Urban Studies, are by sizeable majority “no problem” for the people of Boardman. [From Mar. 12-18, 1987 issue of The Boardman News]
  A Fearful, Frightened Dog Was Crying And Yelling Loudly...As If It Was Being Abused  
  Pure Fentanyl Found In Room At Red Roof Inn:   March 4, 2021 Edition  
     BY JOHN A. DARNELL JR.
      associate editor
      Responding to a call at 4:51 a.m. of an animal in distress in a room at the Red Roof Inn, 1051 Tiffany South Blvd., police found fentanyl and drug-related paraphernalia, including nine syringes in a room occupied by an Oregon Ave., Youngstown man last week on Tues., Feb. 22.
      Dante Jermaine Mason, 31, of 3080 Oregon, Youngstown, faces charges of felony possession of a dangerous drug, possession of drug paraphernalia and cruelty to a companion animal.
      According to Ptl. Anthony Ciccotelli, Mason was also wanted on warrants issued out of the Liberty Police Department for tampering with evidence, two counts of possession of drugs and one count of possession of criminal tools.
      Police were called to the Red Roof Inn after a guest at the inn was awakened to the sounds of what appeared to be an animal in distress.
      Ptl. Ciccotelli said officers went to room #212 when they “heard a man yelling, and then what appeared to be sounds of a man hitting a dog (numerous loud thumps).
      “We could hear a fearful, frightened dog crying and yelling loudly, repeatedly...as if it was being abused.”
      When Mason opened the door to the room, he told police he was angry his dog peed in the bed and he was teaching the dog a lesson in the bathroom, Officer Ciccotelli said.
      Mason was detained in the hallway by his room.
      When police checked Mason’s room, they found a puppy (about 3-4-months-old) in a bathtub.
      “The dog was observed laying in its own feces, trembling and unable to stand.
      “It appeared both back legs were severely injured or broken and the dog was also having a difficult time breathing, as if it had suffered trauma to its throat/neck area,” Ptl. Ciccotelli said.
      Also in the bathroom, Ptl. Ciccotelli said police found a clear plastic baggie, consistent with the appearance of heroin or fentanyl, behind the toilet.
      “The baggie of white powder was field-tested by Det. John Gocala and gave a positive indication for pure fentanyl,” Ptl. Ciccotelli said.
      The Mahoning County Dog Warden’s office was sent to the inn. Tara Girty, of the warden’s office, suggested Animal Charity be contacted, and that agency took possession of the dog, promptly posting a picture of the pooch on its Facebook page, seeking donations to help defray medical costs associated with the its injuries.
      Mason got a free ride in the back seat of cruiser to the Boardman Police Department for booking.
      “During the booking process, he was loud, uncooperative and gave officers a difficult time.
      “He removed all his clothes, ripped them up and refused to put them back on,” Officer Ciccotelli said, adding “While in the booking room, Mason admitted to Officer Earl Neff to ‘whooping the dog’s ass’ for peeing in the bed,” Officer Ciccotelli said.
      Mason told police he has six more dogs at his house in Youngstown.
     
      PICTURED:  POLICE FOUND this dog in a bathtub at the Red Roof Inn last week with injuries to its rear legs after it had been apparently beaten by a man who said he was irritated because the pooch peed in his bed.
  BCB, Little League And T-Mobile Team Up  
  February 25, 2021 Edition  
     We know this past year has been difficult, and the financial strain of the pandemic has had an effect on all of us. As we look ahead to returning to the field in 2021, we want to make sure you and your kid(s) have the opportunity to write the next chapter in the Little League® story, regardless of your personal or financial situation. Thanks to the generous support of T-Mobile over the last two years, families in our community have the opportunity to apply for the T-Mobile Little League Call Up Grant, which is focused on helping to cover registration costs of Boardman CommunityLittle League (BCB) for the 2021 season!
      Apply Today at LittleLeague.org/CallUpGrant
     
      The T-Mobile Little League Call Up Grant Program is committed to helping families in need by covering registration fees associated with local Little League programs so that every kid has the chance to play. Little League, BCB and T-Mobile share the belief that every kid should have the chance to experience Little League.
     
      This program is available to families in need who can present verifications, such as a Free/Reduced Lunch Verification letter, SNAP, WIC, Foster Child Paperwork, or Enrollment in Medicaid or State Health Plans. For more information on how to determine if your family is eligible, as well as information on how to apply, visit LittleLeague.org/CallUpGrant. Prior to filling out the application, we encourage you to reach out to our league to find out more information about registration dates and fees, as well as other opportunities we may be able to provide to help welcome you into our BCB Little League program. Players must reside in the Boardman Local School District or attend a school in the BCB LL boundary. For more information call 330-758-2123 and leave a message. Your call will be returned shortly.
     
      We are here to support everyone in our community, and without each and every one of you, our program would not be what it is today. We are all here for you, and warmly welcome you to be a part of our BCB Little League family.
     
      Boardman Community Baseball, 410 McClurg Rd., Boardman, Ohio 44512
      Phone: 330-758-2123
      Email: info@boardmanbaseball.com
  Boardman Kindergarten Registration Mar. 3-4  
  February 25, 2021 Edition  
      Boardman Local Schools kindergarten registration for the 2021-22 school year is set for Wednesday, March 3, and Thursday, March 4. Parents/students must be a resident of Boardman to enroll.
      Time for registration on Wednesday (morning only) will be 8:30 a.m. until noon.
      On Thursday, registration will be held from 8:30 a.m. to noon; 1:30 p.m. to 4:00 p.m. and from 6:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m.
      Registration takes place at the three elementary buildings---Stadium Dr., Robinwood Lane and West Blvd.
      Printed enrollment packets will be available in advance at each elementary building to complete and return at the time of registration.
  Boardman Businessman Files Civil Rights Lawsuit  
  ‘They Are Taking His Stores Away From Him And Handing Them Over To White Owners’:   February 18, 2021 Edition  
     A civil rights lawsuit was filed Tuesday by Boardman resident and business owner Herb Washington, of Saddlebrook Dr., against McDonalds.
      According to the law firm of Peiffer Wolf Carr Kane & Conway, Washington built the largest black-owned McDonalds franchise in America, operating 27 stores. The lawsuit alleges the restaurant chain has targeted him for speaking about its unfair treatment of black owners.
      “To make things worse, they are taking his stores away from him and handing them to over white owners,” says Max Karlin, a media contact for Washington’s case.
      “As part of its effort to drive black franchisees from its system, McDonalds has targeted Washington and has pressured him to sell one store after another to white franchisees,” Karlin said.
      A video conference was slated about Washington’s suit on Tues., Feb. 15 and speakers, according to Karlin were set to be Mr. Washington, as well as Rev. Jesse Jackson, Joseph C. Peiffer, managing partner, Peiffer Wolf Carr Kane & Conway; and Kevin P. Conway, a partner in the law firm.
      “If one of the biggest and most powerful corporations in the United States can silence someone with the track record and success of Herb Washington, what black business leader can feel safe speaking out about the mistreatment of African Americans in the business world,” Karlin said.
  FBI Agent Tony Sano  
  ‘We learned to condition our minds and bodies to hard work, and not self-motivation; and to take honest and ethical approaches, with integrity’:   February 18, 2021 Edition  
Tony Sano
     Funeral services were held Fri., Feb. 12 at St. Michael Parish in Canfield for retired FBI Agent Anthony ‘Tony’ Joseph Sano, 59, who passed away on Mon., Feb. 1. Anthony leaves behind his lovely wife of 34 years, Deborah, and a legacy of relationships.
      Law enforcement officers from around the country, including California, Michigan and Florida, as well as local officials, honored Agent Sano with their attendance at his memorial services, remembering him as an agent who went above and beyond the call of duty.
      He was always eager to use his quick wit and humor to bring a smile to anyone’s face. His volunteer work at the church was just as fulfilling to him as it was to those he was serving. It can truly be said by all who knew him that his life was a life well-lived through his kindness, charity, compassion and providing for his family and friends.
      As a deeply religious man, Agent Sano once graced a fellow law enforcement official with a pair of handcuffs adorned with a symbol of St. Michael, the patron saint of police officers.
      “He noticed I had a patch of St. Michael on my entry vest (worn by law enforcement when staging raids or in other dangerous situations). A short time later he made a point to come up to me and give me a pair of handcuffs graced with the symbol of St. Michael. It meant the world to me,” said the law enforcement official.
      Anthony was born on April 3, 1961, in Anchorage, Alaska, and raised in New Brighton, Pa., where he graduated from New Brighton High School in 1979.
      He attended Slippery Rock University and earned a BA degree in Political Science and Public Administration in 1984, while also achieving a national-ranking as a competitive powerlifter. While pursuing his degree, he played rugby and as a member of the Phi Sigma Epsilon fraternity where he served as vice president.
      While completing his MBA at Baldwin Wallace University in 1993, he excelled in the fitness industry becoming a general manager at several facilities.
      His greatest career accomplishment was fulfilling his lifelong dream of becoming an FBI Special Agent in 1997. He worked in the Detroit field office for the first part of his career and then transferred to the Cleveland field office until his retirement after 30 years of service.
      Upon completion of training at the FBI National Academy, Agent Sano earned the high honor of being selected by his classmates to serve as spokesman for the class at graduation ceremonies, where he spoke of direction he and his classmates were given.
      “We are all committed to a greater cause and while diverse as individuals, we are committed to a common goal, working as a team.
      “We learned to condition our minds and bodies to hard work, and not self-motivation; and to take honest and ethical approaches, with integrity---core principles of the FBI,” SA Sano said.
      While complimenting those who trained his class, Agent Sano recalled “If you only travel when the sun shines, you will never reach your destination.
      “A focus on discipline and professionalism is a driving force to our success. In an environment that breeds tension, keep a cool demeanor [because] criminals are not always obvious…Sometimes they wear a suit and tie, but are equally as dangerous to those who they victimize.
      “It is our duty and responsibility to speak up, not necessarily in words, but in our actions that not always will be the most popular…but will be the right thing to do.”
      He recalled the words of Rev. Herman E. Mueller on the Holocaust---
      “First they came for the Jews and I didn’t speak up, because I wasn’t a Jew.
      “Then they came for the trade unionists, and I didn’t speak up because I wasn’t a trade unionist.
      “Then they came for the Catholics, and I didn’t speak up, because I wasn’t a Catholic.
      “Then they came for me, and by then, there was no one left to speak up.”
      SA Sano concluded his commencement remarks saying. “If we do the right thing, there will be someone left to speak-up for us.”
      Boardman Police Chief Todd Werth knew SA Sano when both were members of the FBI.
      “I had the honor and privilege of working with Special Agent Tony Sano for several years while with the FBI. He was one of those unique individuals who positively touched the lives of hundreds of people. FBI agents and area law enforcement officers who worked with Tony always held his work ethic, professionalism, and investigative abilities as a standard that we all tried to achieve. Special Agent Sano had a significant impact on Boardman, the Mahoning Valley, and also several other parts of the country where he worked during his career. He will truly be missed, but has left a lasting legacy,” Chief Werth said.
      Following his retirement in 2018, he returned to the FBI as a consultant and established Sano Consulting Group.
      Awaiting Anthony in Heaven with open arms are his parents Alberta (Curry) and Domenic Sano and brother, Michael Sano. Also waiting on the Rainbow Bridge for a long-awaited walk is Lady Liberty ‘Libby’ Sano.
      He leaves behind the love of his life, soulmate and best friend Dr. Deborah (Kiraly) Sano; siblings Domenic (Nona) Sano, Laurie Sano, and Joseph Sano; in-laws Joe (Peggy) Kiraly, Donna (Dale) Bricker, Dr. Elizabeth Kiraly (Dr. John Hamilton), Joe Kiraly, Carolyn (Steve) Kavalec, Blaine Bricker, Scott (Tonya) Bricker and Dale (Angela) Bricker; and cherished nieces and nephews Ty, Katie, Quintin, Elissa, Travis, Meadow, Jacob, Alex, Vivian, Lillian, Marley, Leila, Sophie, Joshua and Caleb
      The family requests that material tributes be given to St. Michael Parish or The Rescue Mission of the Mahoning Valley.
     
  BOARDMAN TOWNSHIP  
  February 18, 2021 Edition  
     Boardman Township
      Civil Service Commission
      Full-Time Entry Level
      Police Officer
      Boardman, OH.
      Annual Salary $38,123.90
      (to include benefits)
      The complete job announcement and application with available bonus points can be viewed on the Boardman Township website: www.boardmantwp.com/administration/civil-service .
      Applications will be available electronically via the Boardman Township Website www.boardmantwp.com or by email request to boardmancivilservice@gmail.com, from Friday, January 15, 2021 through Friday, February 26, 2021. Office hours are by appointment only, please call (330)726-4177 x 61701 during normal business hours or (330)540-8204 after 4pm, except holidays.
      Completed applications will be accepted beginning Tuesday, February 16, 2021 from 9-12pm and 2-4pm Monday- Friday until Friday, February 26, 2021 except weekends & holidays. See complete job announcement for specific instructions.
      If you encounter an unforeseeable scheduling conflict, please contact (330) 540-8204 for further assistance.
      The written examination will be administered on Sunday, February 28, 2021, (1pm-3pm) in the banquet hall of the Avion on the Water Banquet Center, located at 2177 Western Reserve Rd, Canfield, OH 44406.
      AN EQUAL OPPORTUNITY
      EMPLOYER
     
  Woman In Disagreement With Diagnosis Of Her Cat Tells Animal Charity Agency ‘Long Live Donald Trump’  
  February 11, 2021 Edition  
      A disagreement over treatment a veterinarian said was needed for an ill cat resulted in a barrage of profanities directed towards Animal Charity and its veterinarian, as the owner of the cat felt she knew more that the vet.
      Apparently at issue was a $38.50 bill for an x-ray that the cat’s owner refused to pay.
      On Mon., Jan. 25, Tammy Barnes, of 1380 Arbor Dr. SE, Warren, Oh., brought her cat to the animal agency and was advised the feline was seriously ill and would need x-rays and blood work to diagnose the problem.
      According Ptl. Evan Beil, Barnes left Animal Charity without paying for the services she received.
      Barnes told the police officer that she was upset over the price of the x-ray and blood work, and disagreed with the cat’s diagnosis.
      Officer Beil said he advised Barnes that she went to Animal Charity to obtain a service that she knew had a monetary cost associated with the visit, and if she did not pay, Animal Charity was interested in pursuing a theft charge.
      Barnes began screaming at the police officer in a phone conversation, once uttering her “father was a bank robber who would cut holes on the roofs of banks and steal money...that’s theft.”
      While at Animal Charity, Barnes began to spout off, yelling that staff members were “heatless monsters, probably democrats” and “Long live Donald Trump.”
      As a postscript, Officer Beil said that Barnes called Animal Charity several times, demanding the agency return her cat’s stool sample.
      “[Animal Charity] advised me they were unable to return the sample due to it already being disposed of, along with ethical issues in doing so,” the patrolman said.
  Briarfield Place Set To Open In The Spring  
  $12.7 Million Facility Will Offer 58 Private Units:   February 11, 2021 Edition  
Briarfield Place
      Briarfield Place, on Market St. at McClurg Rd. in Boardman is the newest Briarfield location in the Mahoning Valley.
      Construction for the $12.7 million project began in July, 2020.
      The skilled nursing and rehabilitation facility is set to open in May, 2021. The 50,000 sq.-ft. state-of-the-art center will have 58 private units.
      At capacity, Briarfield Place will have about 70 employees.
      Briarfield Place is located at 8400 Market Street in direct proximity to the Boardman/Mercy Hospital campus.
      Strollo Architects, Inc. of Youngstown is the project’s lead architect, and A.P. O’Horo Inc. is the general contractor and EDM Management, Inc. is the developer.
      When complete, Briarfield Place will include a beautifully appointed main dining room, a private dining room for special occasions, a central courtyard, concierge service, resident transportation services, a beauty salon and spa services, and housekeeping and laundry services
      About Briarfield
      Briarfield Health Care Centers prides itself on providing the highest level of rehabilitation, skilled nursing, memory care and senior living services in the Mahoning Valley.
      With over 80 years of combined experience, Ed and Diane Reese, CEO and President of Briarfield, respectively, are proud of their company’s commitment to growth in this area and have assembled a local executive team reflecting that commitment.
      Briarfield locations include Briarfield Manor and Briarfield at Ashley Circle in Austintown, The Inn at Christine Valley in Youngstown, The Inn at Ironwood in Canfield, The Inn at Glenellen and The Villas at Glenellen in North Lima, The Inn at Poland Way in Poland and The Inn at Walker Mill in Boardman.
      For more information, visit www.briarfield.net.
  Former Boardman Police Chief Patrick Berarducci Dies  
  February 4, 2021 Edition  
Pat Berarducci
     Former Boardman Police Chief Pat Berarducci, 70, of Medina, Oh., died Sat., Jan. 30.
      Berarducci served as Boardman Police Chief from Feb. 20, 2007 to Aug., 2009.
      His brief term of chief was pocked by the politics of Trustees Kathy Miller and Robyn Gallitto, who oversaw the elimination of certification from the Commission on the Accreditation of Law Enforcement Agencies (CALEA) and the Drug Abuse Resistance Education (DARE) program in the Boardman Local Schools.
      In the face of political upheaval, manpower during Chief Berarducci’s term fell from 63 to 48 officers.
      Upon his resignation, Chief Berarducci said he did all he could to keep patrol cars on the road.
      Chief Berarducci was a graduate of Youngstown Woodrow Wilson High School. Following his graduation he served four years with the Youngstown Police Department, where he gained a strong reputation as an undercover drug agent.
      He left the YPD to begin a 29-year career as an agent of the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco and Firearms (ATF), before becoming chief in Boardman.
      He resigned his position with the BPD to become police chief in Medina, Oh. He retired from that post in June, 2017, ending a 43-year career in law enforcement.
      In May, 2009, Chief Berarducci was tapped by then Ohio Attorney General Richard Cordray to serve in the state’s Ohio Elder Abuse Commission.
      In 2013, he received the William French Smith Award for outstanding contributions to cooperative law enforcement from United State Attorney General Eric Holder.
      In addition, while serving as chief in Boardman Township, he joined with the Boardman Ministerial Association to form a Chaplain Corps (now defunct) within the local department.
      Upon his resignation from the Boardman Police Department, Chief Berarducci noted his tenure was crimped by declining manpower.
      “Contact by Boardman Police Department officers with the public they are supposed to serve, is well below the standard of service that was achieved as a professionally-accredited agency just three years ago,” Mr. Berarducci said.
      Chief Berarducci, the son of Raymond and Ann Berarducci, leaves his wife, the former Judith Barrett, a son, Patrick, and a daughter, Megan.
      A son, Justin R. Berarducci, died Sept. 14, 2005. Justin was a lifelong resident of the Hattie Larlham Foundation. No matter what his duties in law enforcement, Chief Berarducci always made time, every week to visit with Justin.
     
      PICTURED: PAT BERARDUCCI, pictured, who served as Boardman Township Police Chief from Feb., 2007 to Aug., 2009, died Sat., Jan. 30. He was a 43-year veteran of law enforcement, and also served with the Youngstown Police Department, ATF, and ended his career as Chief of Police in Medina, Oh.
  Pair Charged With Identity Theft, Forgery After $4300 Transaction At Huntington Bank  
  January 14, 2021 Edition  
     BY JOHN A. DARNELL JR.
      associate editor
      After a man and woman netted $4,300 during a drive-thru transaction at Huntington Bank, 711 Boardman-Canfield Rd., they were arrested by Boardman police on a variety of charges, including forgery and identity fraud.
      About 4:40 p.m. on Thurs., Jan. 7, Ptl. Evan Beil was off-duty, but still in uniform, and stopped at one of the bank’s drive-thru windows before returning home.
      In the lane next to him was a man he recognized as Michael Mele, 33, who has a lengthy criminal history (including forgery).
      The policeman then sent a note through the drive-thru tube, asking the teller if everything was all right; and received a reply saying the drive of the car in the next lane had been drinking and they said bank personnel “didn’t think they are who they say,” adding “They say they have Covid.”
      Officer Beil, who was familiar with the driver, Mele, said that Mele “became extremely startled” when he saw the policeman; and the female, identified as Vicki Raynovich, 31, “looked at me and quickly turned away.” Ptl. Beil then blocked Mele’s car in the drive-thru, as other police came to the scene.
      Neither Mele or Raynovich, who had just been making a transaction at the drive-thru, told police they had any identification on them; as Mele told police the woman (Raynovich) was his mother, Denise Mincher.
      Ptl. Beil said Mele and Raynovich were very nervous when speaking with him…“Mele grabbed a large stack of $100 bills and placed them into his pocket, then began looking through a large stack of credit cards., and then took a stack of $100 bills out of his pocket and put them back on his center console.”
      Initially, Mele told police he and Raynovich had Covid and when asked why they were out in public, Mele said “they needed to cash his check.
      “Mele advised they needed to cash ‘his check’ and they were wearing masks.”
      Mele and Raynovich were advised they were under arrest, when “Mele leaned forward into the passenger side of his vehicle and began to reach into the glove box. Ordered not to do so, Mele was taken from the car by police and handcuffed.
      Boardman police officer Ptl. Nick Newland went to Mincher’s residence at an apartment building at 5014 Glenwood Ave.
      Mincher, 56, told Ptl. Newland she gave Mele her identification and debit card, along with $250 “to make a few purchases at Wal-Mart, but ‘they’ were not to withdraw any money.” She told police that she did not wish to pursue charges, she “merely wanted her money, phone and identification back.”
      Ptl. Beil indicated the check cashed at Huntington could be for unemployment benefits in Mincher’s name.
      “It is unknown at this time, if Mincher filed the unemployment claim that was filled in her name, or if Mele and Raynovich fraudulently submitted the claim using her information,” Ptl. Beil said.
      “In addition to the $4300…Mele claimed there to be an additional $4000 to $5000 in cash throughout the vehicle,” Officer Beil said, adding the Mele told police the money “was his and came from the IRS, stimulus and Covid money.”
      When asked how he received such a large amount of money, he told Ptl. David Jones it was “because of his ex-wife and his kid.” A bit later, Mele told Ptl. Jones he did not have any children, Officer Beil said.
      Mele told police he couldn’t go to jail because of cancer/radiation treatments “first thing in the morning,” then said he couldn’t go to jail ‘this evening’ because he had cancer/radiation treatment.
      “Later he said he did not have cancer treatments,” Ptl. Beil said.
      Mele was advised he would be getting a ride in a police cruiser, to the Mahoning County Jail.
      “Okay, I’ll just claim a medical emergency so I can go to the hospital instead of jail,” Ptl. Beil said, adding ‘just then,’ Mele’s knees buckled and he asked for an ambulance.
      After a phone conversation with Boardman Police Sgt. Jon Martin, “Mele advised he ‘felt better’ and did not want to go to the hospital, Ptl. Beil said.
      During their investigation, Boardman police learned the car Mele was driving had been reported stolen out of Moon Township, Pa., and was owned by Hertz Rentals.
      Police seized the $4300 as well as the car, pending further investigation.
      Mele, of 440 5th St., Struthers, Oh., was charged with receiving stolen property (automobile), forgery, identity fraud, obstruction and resisting arrest.
      Raynovich, also of 440 5th St., Struthers, was charged with forgery, identity fraud and obstruction.
      Ptl. Beil said that Raynovich was released from custody after posting a $9000 bond, and Mele was released after posting a $14,000 bond, and pending an 8:30 a.m. initial appearance in Boardman Court---the same day Mele was scheduled for sentencing in Judge John Durkin’s Common Pleas Court on a forgery-related charge.
      Among many charges Mele has stood before the court on was an Oct. 23, 2019 charge of passing a bad check. He was bound over to the Mahoning County Grand Jury on the charge on Jan. 14, 2020. The record of the court says the case is closed.
      On Aug. 19, 2019, Mele entered a guilty plea on a charge of criminal trespassing at Wal-Mart, He was found guilty, fined $150, 29 days of 30 day jail sentence were suspended and he was ordered to eight hours of community service, as well as stay out of Wal-Mart. He was cited with a probation violation and had eight probation hearings scheduled. Finally, on July 28, 2020, the court said “It was recommended community control be terminated and jail sentence suspended.”
  Santon Electric Memorial Honors All Who Provide Help  
  January 7, 2021 Edition  
      “We haven’t seen anything like 2020,” Dan Santon, of Santon Electric on Southern Blvd. in Boardman said last week.
      Three years ago he was planning to honor police and fire personnel with a respite area and flagpole at the company headquarters.
      “Then the pandemic hit, and we thought it would be best to memorialize not only police and firemen, but also our military personnel, health care workers and all essential workers who have helped-out during the pandemic,” Santon said.
      On Thurs., Dec. 31, brief dedication ceremonies were held at 7870 Southern Blvd. where Santon has erected a flagpole graced with a plaque recognizing the efforts of many who have provided aid during the COVID-19 pandemic.
      “This special area was created to honor our safety forces, health care workers and all essential workers for their heroic acts of courage during the COVID-19 pandemic and beyond,” reads the plaque.
      In honoring those who have helped others during the pandemic, Mr. Santon noted “When COVID-19 hit, our lives changed drastically. This memorial was created for all of you and what you do everyday. This is a time in our history that should never be forgotten.”
      His remarks were followed by comments from Jan Brown, of Tanglewood Dr., national commander of the AMVETS.
      “Dan Santon had the idea a few years ago to add a flag pole to his business location to honor police and fire personnel who are first responders in times of need. As the pandemic developed, Mr. Santon thought he should honor all persons who respond in times of crisis, including ambulance and medical personnel.
      “In researching the 1918 pandemic that affected the Mahoning Valley, he found there is no permanent remembrance of that event. So Dan decided to change that with this memorial.”
      When completely finished, The memorial will include a flag pole, a fountain, a landscaped area with benches where one can stop and reflect.
  Boardman Park Reservations for 2022  
  January 7, 2021 Edition  
     Boardman Park, your Hometown Park, nestled in the heart of Boardman on 243 acres of natural beauty, has become a very popular place for families to gather and enjoy hosting their favorite events, as well as creating special memories. However, due to this ever-increasing popularity, the Park’s reservable facilities are very much in demand. On January 1, 2021, the Park began taking reservations for 2022, as well as any dates in 2021 that are still available; so, whether you are planning a graduation party, bridal or baby shower, birthday party, reunion, business meeting or a special family function it is highly recommended that you make a reservation as soon as possible after January 1st. The Park offers 4-indoor rooms (heated, air-conditioned and kitchen facilities), which are available year-round, and 5-seasonal open-air pavilions (water and electric provided) to accommodate 40 to 230 guests at an affordable price. If you are planning a wedding, the Gazebo, Boardman’s most prominent Historical Landmark the St. James Meeting House, and the Maag Outdoor Theatre lend themselves as unique and beautiful settings for your most special occasion.
     
      The Park provides a variety of free outdoor recreational facilities such as baseball fields, playgrounds, walking/hiking trails, tennis and pickle ball courts, sand volleyball courts, green open space, and an 18-hole Disc Golf course, all in close proximity to the reservable facilities for your enjoyment.
     
      The Park began taking reservations for 2022 beginning January 1 online at www.boardmanpark.com, or January 4 through the Park Office by
      calling 330-726-8105 or visiting the Park Office at 375 Boardman-Poland Rd. in the Georgeanna Parker Activity Center.
      Office hours are 8 am- 4 pm Monday –Friday.
  Heaven Gained A Good One---Christine Terlesky, 48  
  ‘She fought ALS with such strength because of the love of family and wanting to be with them as long as she could’:   December 31, 2020 Edition  
Christine Terlesky
     BY JOHN A. DARNELL JR.
      associate editor
      Mrs. Christine Moschella Terlesky, 48, of Boardman, died Sat., Dec. 26, in the arms of her husband after a valiant, seven-year battle with amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS).
      She leaves her husband, Brian; two sons, Brian and Tyler; and a daughter, Emma; all of with whom she shared her daily struggles coping with the disease; and her parents, Ron and Judy Moschella; and in-laws, Ted and Mary Ann Terlesky.; as well as two sisters, Jolene Moschella-Ross and Nadine Moschella-Colla. They all joined as one family in helping Christine to fight ALS.
      Mrs. Moschella-Terlesky’s courageous battle was well-known to her many friends and throughout the Boardman community, with whom she often shared straight forward remarks about ALS.
      Christine was diagnosed with ALS on her birthday in 2013.
      “The day I was born, the beginning of life, also represents the day my life changed forever, when I was diagnosed with ALS. It actually changed my entire family.
      “But somehow, life moved on. It is very hard not to dwell on what I lost this day…At the same time, I am lucky that I have a husband who has sacrificed so much for me. I have supportive friends, and I have support from an entire community.
      “I miss my old life. I had dreams I know I will never realize.
      “The life I am living now, may have more purpose. When I [talk] about my disease, I am not looking for sympathy. I want to spread awareness about this mysterious disease and how it affects everyone…Maybe I will help to stop ALS in my own small way,” Christine observed.
      About a year after she was diagnosed, Christine became wheelchair bound.
      The Boardman community rallied around her and helped to build an addition to her home---and a handicap accessible bedroom and bathroom were constructed.
      Christine stayed with her family, and community throughout her fight.
      “Our medical bills tripled because my secondary insurance dropped me. The biggest expense is the breathing machine that I need to live. I am truly humbled by the generosity of this community. We are all living through such tough times. Everyone is dealing with their own individual hardships and yet they still find it in their hearts to help my family....I know for a fact that without the support of this community I would have succumbed years ago. But, I have lived and have been able to watch my children grow up,” Christine said last October.
      She was very candid about ALS on her many social media posts.
      Last September, she was having trouble eating and took to Facebook.
      “I’ll be honest with you, ALS has thoroughly kicked my butt. From the paralysis to the breathing machine---to waking up and drowning in my own phlegm. The pain that comes and goes is constant. Add to that, the isolation…I lost the ability to eat. It’s been three months, lost about 60 pounds, but who cares? ALS takes the ability to swallow, so I can’t even drink a coke without choking…
      “Oh well, if this has taught me anything, it is to enjoy and savor things and as much as I love food, I miss people so much more.
      “The anger on Facebook is out of control and I have to wonder, who are you really angry with?
      “If I can live without spewing hate [while] knocking on death’s door, so can everyone else,” Christine said, adding her usual humor---“Seriously though, for some people on here, therapy might be a good idea.”
      Just before Christmas Day, Christine began her final battle for her life, but not before thanking all who helped her.
      Her last post read “Thank all the people who supported me this year. Merry Christmas!”
      Three days later, shortly after 10:10 a.m. on Dec. 26, her sister, Nadine, posted that Christine had passed away.
      “She lived these last years with joy and grace. She never asked, ‘Why me?’ She used her time to still find joy in the world and make the lives of her children, Brian, Tyler and Emma better. She loved her husband and cherished their life together.”
      While attending Boardman High School, Christine was a four-year letter-winner on stellar Lady Spartan cage teams coached by her Ohio Hall of Fame father.
      Upon learning of her death, teammates recognized Christine, posting “Heaven gained a good one today, Christine Moschella…She was an amazing example of humility, hard work, perseverance, love, patience, kindness and truth…”
      Christine Moschella was born Sept. 8. 1972.
      She graduated from Boardman High School in 1991, earning a basketball scholarship to the University of Akron. She transferred to Youngstown State University where she also played hoops.
      Following her graduation from college, she became a history and government teacher in the Boardman Local School System, where she also served as an assistant basketball coach. At the same time, she earned a master’s degree from Westminster College.
      Her longtime friend, Mrs. Denise Gorski, former teacher, coach and athletic director at Boardman High School, noted that Christine was the “consummate student-athlete, possessing an incredible work ethic who was extremely coachable and a true leader to her teammates.
      “She loved being a teacher and coach and working with young adults.
      “My heart is broken, as many others are, but Christine is not suffering anymore.”
      Mrs. Gorski added that Christine’s best teaching and coaching days were the seven-plus years in her fight with ALS.
      “Christine coached us all to be more resilient, as she withstood very difficult conditions. She taught us never to feel sorry for yourself in the face of adversity, that someone, has it worse than you.
      “Christine taught us to think of others, before we think of ourselves.
      “She taught and coached us through her incredible courage, handling this disease that would certainly frighten many, but she chose to fight it head on. And, she fought it with such strength because of the love of family and wanting to be with them as long as she could.
      “We should all be so lucky to carry these lessons from Christine,” Mrs. Gorski said.
      In line with her pledge that she hoped her fight with ALS might someday benefit others afflicted with the disease, Christine donated her brain and spinal cord for research. Following her death, her body was taken to UMPC.
      When first diagnosed, doctors told Christine she had two or three years to live. She never gave up the fight and doubled that time.
      About a year before her passing, Christine observed, “The human spirit is a mystery. I can’t honestly say I am happy. I know my family doesn’t want to watch me suffer. Maybe selfishly, maybe because of fear, I want to live. And I’ll keep fighting, until God takes me.”
  GRETTA KNOWS  
  Carry peace, comfort, kindness, joy, hope and love in your heart:   December 17, 2020 Edition  
     BY GWEN DARNELL
      Writing with Gretta
      The Boardman News Dog
      ‘Hi Paws’ to all my friends! All of the heavenly fur-pals are gathered together to ‘Paws’ and wish you a Very Merry Christmas and a Howling New Year! Each of you are in our thoughts! This past year has been one of changes and uncertainties from day to day, but we howl, for one thing is for sure, Christmas is a season that will never change! The reason for Christmas will never change! The magic of Christmas will never change! Nothing can take Christmas from our hearts!
      My heavenly fur-pals have finished decorating our Pawprints Paradise Christmas tree. It sits magnificently high atop the meadow hill, overlooking our heavenly Paradise!
      As we come together beneath our Christmas tree, our dog-sense picks up on a peaceful silence floating in the air. The vibrant bright star resting upon the treetop, shines as far as the eyes can see, reminding us of the reason for the season, the gift of Jesus’s birth in Bethlehem---Its brilliant light touches our doggy-souls, shining hope, love and peace through our heavenly paradise. Its glow touches every life, as it flows throughout your homes on earth.
      Christmas is a time when we all wish to be with family and friends. Our heavenly fur-pals would love nothing more than to reunite with their fur-families.
      This year many of you will celebrate Christmas with loved ones from a distance. During the Christmas season, our hearts desire to reach out to those whom we cherish and love, and those who are less fortunate. Giving gifts to the special people who share life with us, who walk with us, care for us, and love us, is a piece of our soul. It truly is a season of offering joy, peace and love.
      This year our Paws reach out to every one of you! As many of you have had some ‘ruff’ times, we are reminded how special life is! Life is fragile! Cherish the moments you are given! Comfort others and give hope, give kindness, give love! Discover joy in each day! Grab a leash and take a walk with your fur-pal, smell the fresh air, play and laugh.
      Take the time to love those who surround you. So often, the heavenly fur-pals long for one more day to spend with our dog-parents. We long for the chance to walk with you, to sit by you, to feel your hands stroke our fur, to feel the joy of seeing you after a long day, or to receive one of those yum-yum dog treats. Stop and spend precious time with those you love.
      All of us heavenly fur-pals are howling and barking one last wish---’Paws’ and hold onto the Christmas light this year… carry peace, comfort, kindness, joy, hope, and love, in your heart, sharing with all you meet, throughout the New Year ahead. And, if you feel a strange nudge at your feet this Christmas, know that your heavenly fur-pal is right there with you.
      Happy Howl-i-days from all the heavenly fur-pals in Pawprints Paradise....
      Please give your fur-pals a Christmas treat from us!
      Our tails will be ‘awaggin....!
     
  Spirit Of The Season  
  December 17, 2020 Edition  
     The Spirit of the Season is especially evident around Boardman Township this year in displays at homes and businesses. Sadly, due to the pandemic, kids can’t sit on Santa’s lap and make their wishes. The light display at Boardman Park, or perhaps a special light display on Wood Ave., (near Rulli Bros.) that was created by 15-year-old Jacob Quade are among the most popular in the township. The Boardman Township Government Center on Market St. is lighted for the holiday season again, thanks to an initial donation provided by Denise DeBartolo and Clarence Smith (pictured above). New this year along township roadways is a display at Santon Electric on Southern Blvd, at right. Three years in the making, the display was set-up in honor of safety forces who pass by the business and serve our community every day.
  Complaint Filed With Ohio Attorney General Takes Issue With Treatment Some Dogs Endured At Animal Charity Agency  
  December 10, 2020 Edition  
     BY JOHN A. DARNELL JR.
      associate editor
      A former staff veterinarian at Animal Charity, 4140 Market St., filed a complaint with the Office of the Ohio Attorney General/Charitable Law Section in Feb., 2018, decrying the treatment of some dogs and animals in the care of the agency.
      The staff veterinarian at Animal Charity from May, 2014 to June, 2015, and from April, 2016 to October, 2017, claims the agency does not always operate in the best interests of the humane treatment of animals; and as well, questions the role of the agency’s administration in day-to-day operations.
      The vet says a dog named Bella, who was found in deplorable conditions and deplorable health during a drug raid, was brought to Animal Charity “barely recognizable as a dog.”
      Suffering from bacterial and fungal skin infections, as well as advanced ear infection, the vet said that Bella was placed into Animal Charity’s kennel in Canfield for two years “where her medications were not given as needed...Bella went from one cage to another.”
      According to the vet, a dog named Gwinny was brought to Animal Charity in 2016 after her owner had passed away.
      “Gwinny was diagnosed with advanced heartworm disease and thoracic radiographs revealed evidence of heart damage when she was brought in,” the vet said.
      Although Gwinny ended-up going through treatment successfully, the vet said that the dog “was left to suffer needlessly for over a month...from neglect and lack of acknowledgement of [Animal Charity] medical staff recommendations.”
      Sometime in the fall or winter of 2016, the vet said a dog with no tongue, ‘Bubbles,’ was brought to Animal Charity. According to the complaint filed with the Ohio AG’s Office, said the defect was either the result of surgery or a birth defect. A second opinion was obtained that stated the reason for the lack of a tongue was “inconclusive.”
      However, the vet claimed that Animal Charity’s executive director, Lisa Hill, “wanted me to say that this dog had been used for fighting and that his tongue had been maliciously cut out.” The vet said she was ordered to make that claim “for donation reasons and increased media attention.”
      Records of Animal Charity show the agency received three donations in 2017 totaling $638,130; including an $8980 gift from Michael Simon, a $152,676 contribution from the estate of Dolores Falfiani, and a $521,474 gift from the Marie Neag Trust.
      In the complaint, the vet said a puppy, ‘Tahoe,’ had a heart murmur and required an advanced cardiac procedure.
      “While $500,000 had been donated to Animal Charity several months before Tahoe was brought to the agency,” the vet said a Facebook post stated “Tahoe would die without donations since his procedure was so expensive. Meanwhile, more than enough funds were available.”
      In another instance in late 2016, a dog named ‘Chunk,’ that had been hit by a car, was brought to Animal Charity.
      “Chunk was immobile, unable to move any of his limbs. It was determined that he had spinal/head trauma and that a skull scan was needed to fully evaluate his condition, as well as for best prognosis and treatment options,” the vet said, charging that Animal Charity Board President, Mary Louk told her “if he dies, he dies.”
      According to the vet, Chunk’s story had a happy ending, as the pooch made a full recovery.
      In the spring of 2017, Animal Charity seized a puppy, ‘Goofy,’ who had been found tied to a fence post.
      “Goofy had some birth defects, as well as some dental abnormalities which may have been attributed to exposure to distemper,” the vet said, adding “Before I could even explain this, Executive Director Lisa Hill wanted him euthanized.”
      The vet said she proposed to test the puppy for distemper before euthanization and keep the dog in quarantine until the results came back.
      “I took this puppy home and ended-up adopting him once the results came back negative,” the vet said
      Additionally, the vet said that three dogs were put down between April, 2016 and October, 2017 at the direction of Animal Charity’s board president, Mary Louk.
      “Any euthanasia determination is supposed to be made at a consensus of the board president, executive director and staff veterinarian, along with a written recommendation by canine behaviorists,” the vet said, adding “This never happened.”
      The vet said Animal Charity’s directors go against medical advice and force ‘the doctor’ to do what they want, versus what is in the best interest of the animal.”
  Two Persons Robbery Victims While Using ATM And Deposit Machines At Two Local Banks  
  Premier Bank and Huntington Bank:   December 3, 2020 Edition  
     Two persons have told Boardman police they were victims of attempted robbery and were accosted when they went to use ATM and deposit machines at two local banks.
      Shortly before 10:00 p.m. on Mon., Nov. 23, 48-year-old Dawne Cherenique Anderson said she was using the ATM at Premier Bank, 7525 Market St., when a man ran up to her car and grabbed her around the neck as she was attempting to make a withdrawal.
      Anderson said she stepped on the gas pedal and drove away, and the man let go of her.
      On Tues., Nov. 24, about 6:30 p.m., 30-year-old Bobbi Thomas said she went to Huntington Bank, 3960 South Ave., where she wanted to deposit $80 in tips that she had received while working.
      Thomas said a male suspect approached her car from behind and ordered her to give him all the money she had.
      Thomas said the man began punching her in the face and also ripped-out some of her hair. She said she fought back. After netting $60, the man fled on foot.
      Ptl. Mike Manis said that Thomas “as visibly upset and had a highly-inflamed contusion to her head.”
  Lady Spartan Bowling Team Captures Ohio Prep Kick-Off Championship  
  Lexus Petrich Rolls 637 Set For Medalist Honors:   December 3, 2020 Edition  
     On Saturday, Nov. 21 at HP Lanes in Columbus, Oh., the Boardman Spartans girls varsity bowling team took home the championship title at the Ohio High School State Invitational Kick-Off Tournament. The tournament featured some of the top teams across the state of Ohio and consisted of a qualifying round followed by a series of head-to-head best of five baker match-ups until a winner is crowned.
      Boardman took the first seed in the qualifying round in dominating fashion, finishing 216 pins ahead of #2 seeded Ashland heading into match play.
      Facing off against #8 seeded Olentangy in the first round, the Lady Spartan keglers had their first baker game sweep, winning 169-139, 177-168, and 163-158.
      Round two saw the same result against #4 seeded Cincinnati Colerain, with scores of 201-131, 147-145 and 170-153.
      In the final championship round, the Lady Spartans again faced Ashland for the title in what would be a nail-biting, five-game baker series. Boardman and Ashland traded wins, forcing a game five that would see the Spartans emerge victorious, with scores of 193-174, 152-157, 162-154, 180-190 and 172-135.
      “I could not be prouder of or have asked more from this special group of young ladies. There were some moments there where we got ourselves into tough situations, but we fought our way out of them, setting the tone for what I hope will be a very successful season,” said Boardman coach Justine Cullen.
      Lady Spartan Senior Lexus Petrich was the tournament medalist, rolling games of 223, 203, and 211 for a 637 set. Runner-up was her teammate, junior Sam Hoffman, with games of 202, 238, and 164 for a 604 set.
      In sixth place overall was Boardman senior Josalyn Hibbard, with games of 192, 168, and 189 for a 549 set. Finishing in 10th, just five pins short of making the all-tournament team, was senior Fatima Rehman, with games of 165, 235 and 141 for a 541 set. Other contributing members for the winners were senior Destiny Foltz, rolling a 110, and junior Grace Oklota, posting games of 153 and 139.
  School Funding Bill Labeled A Blueprint For The Future  
  November 26, 2020 Edition  
     BY JOHN A. DARNELL JR.
      associate editor
      A measure currently under consideration in the Ohio Legislature could boost funding and reduce reliance on property taxes for the Boardman Local School District, as well as public school districts across the state of Ohio.
      Ohio Representative John Patterson spoke about the status of the ‘School Fair Funding Movement’ during a forum held last week at the Boardman Performing Arts Center.
      Patterson and Rep. Bob Cupp say they have been studying Ohio’s unconstitutional formula for funding public schools for three years and have proposed House Bill 305 that would create a new financing system.
      “This is a blueprint for the future,” Patterson said at last week’s forum, adding if HB 305 as well as companion legislation in the Ohio Senate is approved “We will move from a formula that is totally broken to one that is predictable.”
      Boardman Local School Supt. Tim Saxton told The Boardman News the Cupp-Patterson proposal, when fully implemented, could add upwards of $4 million into the local district.
      The measure would allow Boardman schools to recoup about $1 million that is funneled to other districts under open enrollment, as well as return upwards of $3.2 million that is lost because state funding is currently ‘capped’ and cannot be increased.
      Rep. Patterson said the current funding formula for public schools is too dependant on property taxes.
      Under the Cupp-Patterson proposal, there would be a ‘blend’ of property taxes and income wealth that would be used to determine a district’s overall wealth.
      Supt. Saxton said “as a capped district, Boardman Local Schools lose about $3 million. We are property rich and income average, and the current formula is not working.”
      William L. Phillis, executive director of the Ohio Coalition for Equity & Adequacy, says the Cupp-Patterson plan, “in principle, is straightforward and elementary. It identifies the components of a quality education, applies a cost to the components and distributes funding in a way that allows school districts, in combination of state and local funds, to provide quality educational opportunities to students.”
      Phillis says the Cupp-Patterson bill is beneficial to school districts in a variety of ways such as:
       •Charters and vouchers would be funded directly from the state.
       •The funding levels are premised on the costs of the components of a quality education instead of a politically-established number related to what is left over in the state budget after other budget items are funded.
       •Districts will have sufficient funds to offer quality educational opportunities.
       •Reliance on property tax will be reduced.
      If approved, the Cupp-Patterson plan could take upwards of seven years to be fully implemented.
      “The future of Ohio is at stake,” Patterson said at last week’s forum suggesting if approved, the measure would put school districts “on a predictable [tax] levy cycle.”
      Some 66 state representatives have signed-on as co-sponsors of the Cupp-Patterson bill.
      Also giving support to HB 305 is the League of Women Voters (LWV).
      “Students, school districts, and taxpayers all deserve a workable and fair system. Sub. HB 305 is comprehensive and a meaningful blueprint for the investment of public funds. How well it succeeds will depend on the investment the legislature makes during the budget process.
      According to the LWV, here are the merits of passing this bill now:
       •Public school funding is in tatters and school districts are financially vulnerable.
       •Sub. HB 305 is ready for adoption. It was developed over three years through a model process of thorough, informed, and transparent policy making led by education practitioners.
       •Sub. HB 305 is fair. It is driven by a commitment to an inspired vision of what public schools can accomplish, and it is based on the actual cost of providing for a quality education.
       •Sub. HB 305 makes the distribution of state funds more equitable by using a more precise measure of local capacity to pay for public schools.
       •Sub. HB 305 ends funding vouchers, charter schools, and inter-district transfers by deducting those dollars from state aid owed to districts. This ‘deduction funding’ drains resources out of local districts, creates greater funding inequality, fuels greater reliance on local funds, and reduces education opportunities for students, particularly in districts with concentrated poverty.
       •Failure to act would mean chaos going forward.
       •There is no “plan B” or prospect of a solution that could meet the quality of this proposal.
  Former State Senator Schiavoni Takes Oath As County Judge  
  November 26, 2020 Edition  
Joe Schiavoni
     Former State Senator, and Mahoning County Court Judge-Elect Joe Schiavoni, of Boardman, at left, was sworn-in on Tues., Nov. 24 during ceremonies held at Canfield Court. The oath of office was given by Ohio Supreme Court Justice-Elect Jennifer Brunner. Schiavoni is a former state senator, serving Ohio’s 33rd Senate District. He will be the Presiding Judge in Mahoning County Courtroom #3 in Sebring.
  HOLIDAY TRADITION AT BOARDMAN PARK  
  ANNUAL LIGHT DISPLAY:   November 26, 2020 Edition  
     Boardman Park is readying for its annual Winter Wonderland Holiday Light Display that features over 23 displays along the main drive of the park. Several light displays will be synchronized to a variety of favorite traditional Christmas songs, as well as family favorites. The synchronized display consists of a huge 25-foot lighted tree, four singing Christmas trees and many more, located on and around the Maag Outdoor Theatre. Tune your car radio to 88.9 FM as you enter the park to enjoy the holiday music, with over 20 minutes of music to enjoy. Visitors are encouraged to park across from the light show in the Maag Outdoor Theatre parking lot to enjoy the entire show so as not to block traffic on the park drive. The Light Display starts on Sunday, December 6 at 5:30 p.m., and is free and open to the public from 5:00 p.m. to 10:00 p.m. every evening until January 10, 2021. Last week park employees Pete Cordon and Gabe Manginelli were busy testing lights for the annual event.
  TRI-STATE NEUROPATHY CENTER OPENS  
  November 19, 2020 Edition  
     Tri-State Neuropathy Centers held a grand opening on November 9, 2020, at its newest location at 70 West McKinley Way in Poland. TSN brings its state-of-the-art technology and hope for those suffering with peripheral neuropathy.
      Peripheral neuropathy occurs when nerves are damaged or destroyed and can’t send messages to the muscles, skin and other parts of the body. Peripheral nerves go from the brain and spinal cord to the arms, hands, legs and feet. When damage to the nerves takes place, numbness and pain in these areas may occur. An estimated 30 million people in the U.S. suffer from some form of peripheral neuropathy.
      “We qualify patients to make sure they are candidates for our treatments. With more than 7000 patients we have qualified, we have an over 90 per cent success rate,” said Dr. Shawn Richey, who founded Tri-State Neuropathy Centers. “We are excited to be able to expand throughout the tri-state area to bring relief to more sufferers.”
      Dr. Jared Yevins director of the Boardman office, along with Dr. Shawn Richey and Dr. Michael Scarton, have devoted their time exclusively to develop programs designed to help peripheral neuropathy sufferers to get their lives back.
      Tri-State Neuropathy Centers also has locations in Wexford, Latrobe and Washington, Pa.
      For more information, visit: www.marydancedin.com or call: 330-953-3339.
     
  Sufficiency Of Evidence Key To Upholding Theft Conviction; And Overturning Traffic Citation In Cases Before Appellate Court  
  November 5, 2020 Edition  
     BY JOHN A. DARNELL JR.
      associate editor
      In recent decisions, the Seventh District Court of Appeals affirmed a theft conviction on an Aug., 2018 shoplifting incident at the Southern Park Mall; and reversed a trial court decision, tossing out a conviction for failure to stop on the order of a police officer, stemming from a May, 2019 traffic stop that ended in the parking lot of Wal-Mart, 1300 Doral Dr.
      On Aug. 28, 2018, Derreka Clinkscale was arrested on a charge of theft at the now vacant Dillards in the Southern Park Mall.
      On Feb. 28, 2019, a trial court found Clinkscale guilty and suspended 150 days of a 180 days jail sentence, and ordered her to 12 months of community control, largely based upon the testimony of a Dillard’s employee, Gina Chepak.
      According to the Seventh District opinion, Clinkscale testified on her own behalf at the trail court and “admitted to being a thief,” stating “She has plenty and can’t even county the number” of previous theft charges to which she pled.
      She admitted Dillards associates tried to stop her on her way out of the store, when she advised the associates, “I don’t have to stop for nobody.”
      Counsel for Clinkscale, Atty. Jan Mostov, argued the trial court erred “because the evidence at trial was insufficient to support conviction.”
      The appellate court decision, written by Judge David D’Apolito, said “When a court reviews a record for sufficiency...after viewing the evidence in the most favor able light to the prosecution, any rational trier of fact could have found the essential elements of the crime proven beyond a reasonable doubt.
      “In this case, the state (prosecution) presented sufficient evidence that [Clinkscale]...knowingly obtained Dillard’s property without its consent, and also by deception...the elements of the theft were proven.”
      Seventh District Judges Gene Donofrio and Cheryl L. Waite agreed with D’Apolito.
      Representing the prosecution was Atty. Ralph Rivera, assistant county prosecutor.
      The same standard of “sufficiency of evidence” was applied in overturning a conviction on a charge of failure to comply with the order of a police officer, when a car driven by James Bares was stopped by Ptl. Dan Baker on May 21, 2019 about 11:45 p.m. in the parking lot of Wal-Mart.
      Officer Baker told the court that he observed a Trans Am traveling at a high rate of speed make a right hand turn from Mathews Rd. onto South Ave., then twice changing lanes, and cutting off a vehicle that had to hit its breaks to avoid a possible collision.
      Abruptly the Trans Am turned into Wal-Mart, eventually coming to a stop in the parking lot of the store.
      However, Officer Baker also noted at no time did Bares speed up, once the officer activated his lights and siren.
      On the failure to comply conviction, Bares was given a suspended 90-day jail sentence, placed on 12 months community control, ordered to attend a remedial driving course, fined $250 and his driver’s license was suspended for 180 days.
      Bares, and his counsel, Atty. John McNally, filed notice of apple on the conviction on July 15, 2019.
      “Officer Baker testified the Trans Am did not speed up after he activated his lights and siren. Additionally the Trans Am did not run any red lights. Further, Officer Baker noted that Bares was cooperative,” an opinion written by Judge Gene Donofrio said.
      The Judge added “When viewing the evidence in light most favorable to the prosecution, it cannot be said that [Bares] willfully eluded or fled from Officer Baker.” Judges Carol Ann Robb and Cheryl L. Waite concurred.
  Pizza Joe’s Observes 40th Year  
  November 5, 2020 Edition  
     Pizza Joe’s started 40 years ago in a 600-square-foot unit with a handful of toppings, homemade tomato sauce, a few sizes of pizza, and a lot of family support.
      The regional chain based in New Castle, Pa. opened its first location on November 10, 1980 next to the childhood home of founder Joseph Seminara, ‘Pizza Joe’.
      “My mother was an excellent pizza maker and I had many family members in the grocery business, as well as an aunt who owned a pizza shop in Youngstown,” said Seminara of his interest in opening his own business.
      Not long after that first shop’s success, Seminara said that community and family support are what drove him to open additional locations within a few short years.
      “I was fortunate to have help from my parents, my wife, and siblings right out of the gate, and once we saw customers returning time and time again we knew we had something special and that additional shops could be a possibility,” he said.
      Four decades later, Pizza Joe’s has 42 locations in western Pennsylvania and eastern Ohio, and Seminara is still working each day in his business.
      “This year especially we are grateful for being in the pizza industry and for our customers,” Seminara said. “We know others in the food industry have not fared as well as those of us in the pizza space, and to be celebrating 40 years in such a tumultuous time makes us extremely humbled.”
      To celebrate and thank customers, all Pizza Joe’s locations are offering throwback pricing dates in November. Each Tuesday throughout the month will feature one menu item at its original 1980 price. Due to the deep discount on items, they are limited two per customer for carryout or dine-in service only, while supplies last. Additionally, every location will give away 40th anniversary prize packs each Friday in November.
      Pizza Joe’s in Boardman at 6810 Market St., is operated by Mario LaMarca.
  Public Schools Cancel In-Class Instruction Every Wednesday Through Jan. 13  
  School Superintendent: In-class instruction five days a week “will collapse if we keep this system going.”:   October 29, 2020 Edition  
     BY JOHN A. DARNELL JR.
      associate editor
      In tandem with members of the Boardman Spartan football team’s coaching staff; as well as one student-athlete testing COVID-19 positive last week, Boardman Local School announced the system will not have in-class instruction on Wednesdays, beginning Nov. 4 through Jan. 13.
      Boardman High School Principal Cindy Fernback issued a letter via social media on Oct. 19, advising “Three off-staff coaches tested positive for COVID-19. This brings the total to five, off-staff coaches who have tested positive.
      “We are cooperating with the [county] health department for conducting contact tracing, and as a result of initial contact tracing, we have quarantined an additional four members of the coaching staff stemming from one incident of viewing film over the weekend. The sport impacted is varsity football, and we are cancelling varsity and junior varsity games against Chaney.”
      A day later, Principal Fernback sent another letter, advising ‘We have recently received information that a senior at Boardman High School has tested positive for COVID-19.
      “We have quarantined four additional students primarily related to school events occurring outside of school operations, as well as one athletic practice (ed. note: reportedly boys soccer) We do not expect any additional quarantine at this time.”
      In announcing there will be no in-class instruction in the district on Wednesdays through Jan. 13, 2021, Supt. Tim Saxton in-class instruction five days a week “will collapse if we keep this system going.”
      He said no in-class instruction on Wednesdays “will allow the staff to catch-up on the massive amount of communication coming from students and their families.
      “To be able to collaborate with their colleagues to make sure we are aligning their instruction.”
      The superintendent also said the change “will allow the staff to meet the demands of school instruction” as well as “allow for additional, enhanced daily cleaning cycles for classrooms.”
      Saxton said the decision to move to remote-only instruction on Wednesdays was “not easy. We are aware this places an additional burden on working parents..”
      He indicated during the pandemic, school officials “knew we would be tasked with flexibility...to provide opportunities for students.”
      In addition to the positive COVID-19 cases at the high school, the district says two staff members and one student have tested positive at West Blvd. Elementary School.
      A survey conducted by Boardman Local Schools prior to announcing the remote-only Wednesday instruction drew 1,176 replies in which 514 of those responding, or 44 per cent, said no ‘in-person’ changes were needed; and only 5 per cent, of 56 respondents, favored switching to remote learning; and 889 respondents do not favor such change; while another 226, or 18 per cent, were unsure of switching to remote learning.
      COVID-19 Updates
      On Mon., Oct. 26, high school principal Fernback notified “BHS Families” that two seniors had tested positive for COVID-19, and “at this point we have quarantined approximately 20 students, advising them to stay home and not return to school until Nov. 5.”
      On Tues., Oct. 20, Center Intermediate School Principal Randall Ebie issued a letter stating a staff member had tested positive for COVID-19.
      “The teacher has not been in the building since Fri., Oct. 16 and has remained out of school with minor symptoms while awaiting test results...No students need to be quarantined at this time.”
  LEAF PICK-UP PROGRAM WILL BE HELD MONDAY, NOVEMBER 2 THRU FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 20  
  October 29, 2020 Edition  
     Boardman Trustees will conduct their annual Leaf Pick-Up Program beginning
      Monday, November 2, 2020 and ending Friday, November 20, 2020. All Boardman streets will receive this free service. Leaves must be placed in Brown Paper Leaf Bags and placed by the curb on the appropriate date for your street.
      Brown Paper Leaf Bags can be purchased at local hardware stores.
     
      DUE TO THE VETERANS’ DAY HOLIDAY NO LEAVES WILL BE PICKED UP ON WEDNESDAY, NOVEMBER 11, BUT WILL BE PICKED UP ON THURSDAY, NOVEMBER 12
     
      Bagged leaves ONLY will be picked-up according to the schedule below:
     
      MONDAYS Rt. 224 (West Blvd. to Pinewood), 5817 & 5829 Market St., Alburn, Allen, Anthos Court, Aravesta, Arlene, Beechwood (west of tracks), Brookfield (West Blvd. to Park), Brookwood, Buena Vista, Chester, Clifton (west of tracks), Court Way, Crestline, Crestview (West Blvd. to Park), Danbury, Devonshire, Erskine (west of tracks), Ewing (West Blvd. to Park), Fairlawn, Ferncliff, Firnley, Forest Hill, Forest Park Drive, Forest Park Place, Friendship, Gertrude, Glen Park, Glenbrook, Glenwood (Midlothian to Shields), Golfview, Harrington,, Hillman Street, Hillman Way, Homestead (west of tracks), Hudson, Indianola (Market to Southern), Jennette, Kiwana, LeMans, Leighton, Lundy Lane, Maple Drive (west of tracks), Marinthana, Meadowbrook (west of tracks), Melrose (west of tracks), Midlothian (Market to Glenwood), Mill Creek Blvd., Mill Creek Drive, Newport, Newport Square, Newton, Oak Knoll, Overhill, Pinewood, Plymouth, Prestwick, Reta, Romaine, Ron Joy, Ron Lee, Ron Park, Sciota, Shadyside (west of tracks), Sheldon, Southern Blvd. (Rt 224 to city line), Stanton, Stratford, Stuart, Terrace (west of tracks), Warren Court, West Blvd. (Rt 224 to Glenwood), West Glen, Wilda, Wildwood (West Blvd. to Park), Willow, Windsor, Woodrow, Woodview.
     
      TUESDAYS Alamosa, Amherst, Angiline, Aquadale, Ardendale, Ayelsboro, Bluebid, Bonnell, Brainard, Brookfield (Market to West Blvs.), Cadillac Blvd., Caribou, Carter Circle, Cathy Ann, Centervale, Claybourne, Colwyn Court, Cranberry Run, Creston, Crestview (Northlawn to West Blvd.), Crystal Drive Deer Path, Dominica, Eastern, Ewing (Market to West Blvd.), Forest Garden, Forest Lake Drive, Garden Gate Court, Gardenridge Court. Garden Valley, Garden Valley Court, Gardenview, Gardenwood Drive, Gardenwood Place, Garver, Gilbert, Glendale, Glenwood (Western Reserve to Shields), Glenwoods Court, Green Bay, Green Garden, Griswold, Hitchcock Rd., Ingram, Jackson Place, Jan Marie Drive, Jaronte, Locust, Longview, Lost Creek, Lost Tree, Maramont, Margaret, Marlindale, Marlyn Place, Mayflower Drive, Melbourne, Midgewood, North Cadillac, Northlawn, Oakley, Old Oxford, Old Shay, Oregon Circle, Oregon Trail, Parkland, Paxton, Pembrooke, Pinetree, Ranier, Redwood, Ridgewood, Roche Way, Rockdale, Rockland, Runnemeade, Salinas Trail, Santa Fe, Shields (Market to West Blvd.), Shorehaven, Sierra Madre, South Cadillac, South Shore, Southwoods, Spartan, Spring Garden Court, Spring Garden Drive, Stilson, Stoney Creek Court, Stoney Creek Dr., Sugarcane, Sugartree, Titus, Trenholm, Vineland, Waggaman, Western Reserve (Market to Tippecanoe), Westview, White House, Wildwood (Market to West Blvd.), Withers, Wolcott.
     
      WEDNESDAYS Alissa Place, Anderson, Arden Blvd., Augusta Drive, Banbury, Barbie, Baymar, Becky Court, Black Friar, Bob White Court, Bob-O-Link, Bonnie Court, Cascade, Cherrywood, Colleen, Cove Place, Deer Run, Doncaster, Donmar, Dover, Eagle Trace, East Huntington Drive, East Parkside, East Parkside Court, Fawn, Flagler, Flora, Fox Hollow, Fox Run, Fredricksburg, Gillian, Glenmere, Green Glen, Greyledge, Harrow Lane, Harrow Place, Heather Creek Run, Hopkins Rd., Hunters Cove, Hunters Court, Hunters Glen, Hunters Ridge, Huntington Circle, Huntington Court, Huntington Drive, Jaguar Court, Jaguar Drive, Kiowa, Lakeshore Drive, Laverne, Leiskin, Little Johns, Loch Heath, Lockwood Blvd., Loma Vista, Loretta, Lucerne, Macachee Drive, Mary Ann Court, Meadowlark, Mere Court, Midlothian (west), Milltrace, Old Harbour, Oyster Bay, Palmetto, Park Harbour, Pheasant Court, Pheasant Drive, Pierce, Pioneer, Powell, Quail Court, Red Fox Court, Red Fox Drive, Red Grouse, Red Tail Hawk, Risher, Riverside, Robinhood Drive, Robinhood Way, Rosewood, Royal Palm, Sable Court, Sabrina, Schenley, Shadeland, Shadow Creek, Sharon, Shelbourne, Shelby, Shields Rd., (West Blvd. to Tippecanoe), Silver Fox, Squirrel Hill Court, Squirrel Hill Drive, St. Albans, Straley, Stratmore, Suzylinn, Sylvia, Timothy, Tippecanoe Rd., Tippwood Court, Tori Pines, Tracy, Traymore, Traymore Court, Trotter, Truesdale, Turnberry, Valley View, West Blvd. Extension, West Parkside, Westport, Westport Circle, Whipoorwill, Windel Way, Winged Foot, Yakata Doro, Zander
     
      THURSDAYS Afton, Alverne, Annawan, Argyle, Basil, Beechwood (east of tracks), Border, Brandon, Canavan, Canterbury, Cathy Way, Cheriwood Court, Clifton (east of tracks), Cook, Country Club, Cranberry Creek, Erie, Erskine (east of tracks), Euclid Blvd., Evans, Grover, Halbert, Holbrooke, Homestead (east of tracks), Indianola Rd. (Southern to South Ave), Irma, Island Drive, Jeannelynn, Jochman Court, Johnston Place, Lealand, Lemont, Lemoyne, Lightner, Linger, Lynn, Lynn Mar, Madonda, Maple Dr (east of tracks), Mathews Rd., Mayport, Meadow Lane, Meadowbrook (east of tracks), Meadowbrook (industrial), Melrose (east of tracks), Montrose, Montrose Circle, Moyer, Mulberry Lane, Nellbert, New England, Nova, Oles, Orlo Lane, Palo-Verde, Peachtree Court, Robinwood Drive, Rush Blvd., Rush Circle, Sequoya, Shadyside (east of tracks), Sheridan Rd., Simon Rd., South Ave. (Midlothian to Mathews), Southern Blvd. (east of tracks), Sunset, Tam-O-Shanter, Tara Court, Tara Drive, Terrace (east of tracks), Thalia, Tudor Lane, Velma Court, Waseka, West Street, Wingate, Wolosyn Circle, Woodlawn. Woodward, Yarmouth.
     
      FRIDAYS Amberwood Court, Amberwood Trail, Applecrest Court, Applecrest Drive, Appleridge Circle, Appleridge Drive, Applewood Boulevard, Aspen Lane, Auburn Hills Drive, Beech, Bev, Bishop Woods Court, Bluebell Trail, Blueberry, Boardman Blvd. Brandt Place, Brazelton, Bridgewood, Buchanan, California, Cedar Way, Charles Avenue, Cherry Blossom Trail, Cherry Hill Place, Chestnut Lane, Cover, Crimson Trail, Daffodil, DeBartolo Drive, Degaulle, Delaware, Doral, East California, East Southwoods, Edenridge, Edgewood Oval, Eisenhower, Elm, Fairfield, Forestridge, Foxridge, Foxwood Court, Franko Court, Glenridge, Greenfield, Havenwood, Helo Place, Hickory Hill Court, Holm Way, Indian Creek Drive, Indian Trail, Ivy Hill, Jasper Court, Karago, Kentwood, Larkridge, Lo, Lynnridge, Maple Avenue, Mapleridge, Marwood Circle, Massachusetts, Mayfield, McArthur, McClurg, McKay, Meadowwood Circle, Midwood Circle, Nevada, Oak, Oakridge, Palestine, Parkway, Paulin, Pearson, Pennsylvania, Pinehill, Presidential, Presidential Court, Raub, Reserve Court, Reserve Drive, Ridgefield, Rose Hedge, Saddlebrook, Sahara Trail, Scotland, Sigle Lane, Silver Meadow Lane, South Ave. (Mathews to Western Reserve), South Commons, Southern Blvd. (Western Reserve to Mathews, Southfield, Southwestern Run, Stadler Avenue, Stadler Court, Stafford, Sugar Creek, Tamarisk, Tanglewood, Teakwood, Terraview, Tiffany, Tiffany South, Tod, Trailwood, Trotwood, Twin Oaks, Walker Mill Rd., Walnut, Washington Blvd., Wendy, Western Reserve (Southern to Market), Westfield Drive, Whitman-Chase, Windham Court, Winterberry, Wood St., Woodfield Court, Yellow Creek, York.
  Handel’s Ice Cream CEO Lenny Fisher Named BCA Business Person Of The Year  
  October 29, 2020 Edition  
     In a virtual community awards ceremony held last week at the Lariccia Family Community Center in Boardman Park, the Boardman Civic Association handed-out its annual community services awards, including recognition given Lenny Fisher, CEO of Handel’s Homemade Ice Cream and Yogurt; and to Joyce Mistovich, who was honored as Citizen of the Year.
      Fisher was honored as Business Person of the Year. He became chief operating officer of Handel’s in Mar., 1985.
      Handels was founded in July, 1945 by Alice Handel, who began serving ice cream out of her husband’s gas station in Youngstown. For many years the company operated its business in the Fosterville area of Youngstown, before moving to Boardman.
      Since then, Handel’s has grown to include locations in California, Florida, Indiana, Nevada, Ohio, Pennsylvania, Arizona and Oregon. The menu has expanded to include over 100 flavors of homemade ice cream and yogurt. Handel’s success has been documented in many national publications including USA Today, People Magazine, Chocolatier Magazine, and US News and World Report.
      Recently published books “The Ten Best of Everything” and “Everybody Loves Ice Cream” both recognize Handel’s as one of the best ice creams in the world.
      In honoring Mrs. Mistovich, Mark Luke of the Civic Association noted “You really can’t have a comprehensive conversation about Boardman without mentioning the name of Joyce Mistovich.”
      A 2014 recipient of a Distinguished Alumni Award from Boardman High School, Mistovich is a member of the Boardman Park Board of Commissioners and was a charter member of the Boardman Local Schools Fund for Educational Excellence.
      She has served as a supporter and volunteer for many committees in support of capital and levy campaigns for the local park district, as well as Boardman Township and Boardman Local Schools.
      She retired as a teacher in the Boardman Local School District after 37 years, where she also served as program director for the Boardman Schools Television Network (BSTN). Since 2014 she has served as the Director of Education for the Butler Institute of American Art.
      Also recognized at the event were New Building Award, Youngstown Orthopaedic Associates; Refurbished/Remodeled Building Award, Extra Space Storage; Community Service Award, Boardman News/John Darnell; and Past President Award, Stephanie Landers, Boardman Township Deputy Administrator.
  53-Year-Old Man Who Lived At Traveler’s Inn Sentenced In 2019 Incident Where He Fired 2 Shots At Police  
  October 22, 2020 Edition  
     BY JOHN A. DARNELL JR.
      associate editor
      A 53-year-old former resident of the Traveler’s Suites, 6110 Market St., Stephen B. Wilson, known to have mental issues, received a sentence of up to 23-1/2 years in jail last week from Mahoning County Common Pleas Judge John Durkin, more than a year after Wilson fired two gunshots at police who had attempted to help him in the early morning hours of Sept. 7, 2019 as he was walking in the roadway on heavily-traveled Market St.
      Shortly after midnight on Sept. 7, Ptl. Earl Neff was on a routine patrol when he saw Wilson walking in the middle of Market St., near Gertrude Ave.
      Officer Neff pulled-up to the man and advised him to use the sidewalk, however Wilson continued walking in the roadway and fired a round from a handgun that struck the patrolman’s cruiser.
      Officer Neff immediately got out of his cruiser and ordered Wilson to drop the gun and get to the ground. Wilson ignored police and continued walking on the roadway, eventually being followed by a contingent of at least 10 law enforcement officers, including Boardman police and Ohio State Highway patrol troopers.
      When Wilson reached the intersection of Market St. and Erskine Ave. he fired a second round at police, unleashing a hell-fire response from law enforcement, who returned fire, putting Wilson to the ground as he was struck numerous times.
      Officers kicked his gun away as Ptl. Breanna Jones began to render first aid to Wilson. Wilson was taken to the hospital and survived to stand trial.
      In remarks at Wilson’s sentencing hearing last week, Boardman Police Chief Todd Weth noted “The law enforcement profession has been the focus of much recent debate in our country. The public rightfully expects a lot from the men and women who serve in this capacity in our communities, and we embrace that.
      “An important request in return is that those who would do us harm answer, without excuse, to their conduct. In this case, Mr. Wilson attempted to kill nine police officers and troopers who were working to keep the community, and him, safe that evening.”
      “Mr. Wilson was walking in the roadway and not utilizing the available sidewalks. [Officer Neff] was concerned about Mr. Wilson’s safety, pulled his marked police cruiser up near him and asked him to step over to the side of the road and use the available sidewalk.
      “For background, prior to this encounter there were three recent tragic fatalities in the township where pedestrians were struck by vehicles on heavily-traveled state roads, to include an earlier incident on Market Street. I believe it is important to highlight this because the initial contact by law enforcement with Mr. Wilson was initiated specifically out of a concern for his personal safety,” Chief Werth said.
      “Mr. Wilson’s conduct that evening started with an unprovoked attack on an officer who was concerned about his safety on the roadway. Then, after an extended period of time and distance, Mr. Wilson made the knowing and conscious decision again to attempt to kill a law enforcement officer.
      “The fact that no officer was severely injured or killed that evening is truly a miracle. However, that does not completely overshadow the extreme stress the incident caused those officers, troopers, and their families. Some may say that they willingly or knowingly place themselves in harm’s way through this line of work. However, it does not take away from the fact that ethat evening, with this incident likely weighing on each of them for the rest of their lives,” the chief told the court.
      He also noted “Mr. Wilson was quickly secured and was immediately provided medical care by the officers and troopers he had just tried to kill. This immediate care quite possibly saved Mr. Wilson’s life.
      “Of note is that even though Mr. Wilson remained a direct threat to the officers, troopers, and the public, they showed great restraint and professionalism and only resorted to the use of deadly force as an absolute last resort. They did this even as they were exposed and remained in harm’s way. Without hesitation, they then worked to save his life after he no longer posed a threat.”
  Sheriff Greene Selected To Receive Award For Aid Given To Drug Users  
  October 22, 2020 Edition  
Sheriff Jerry Greene
     Mahoning County Sheriff Jerry Greene, a resident of Boardman, has been tapped to receive CARES Award recognizing frontline workers and leaders who have dedicated their time and expertise to support and serve Ohioans impacted by opioid and other drug addiction.
      Sheriff Greene was selected to receive the recognition from the Ohio Association of County Behavioral Health Authorities
      “The CARES Awards are presented to those who demonstrate true compassion along with those who are leading efforts to find new and innovative ways to help address this epidemic and discovering ways to help individuals move toward recovery,” said Cheri L. Walter, CEO of the Ohio Association of County Behavioral Health Authorities.
      Sheriff Greene was nominated for the award by the Mahoning County Mental Health and Recovery Board.
      Some of Sheriff Greene’s accomplishments include:
       •All Mahoning County deputies attend mental health first aid training.
       •Sheriff Greene has fully supported the County’s Quick Response Team (QRT) that is instrumental in reaching drug users who experience a non-fatal overdose. The QRT team members will approach the overdose victim in the emergency department, and then visit the person within the 72 hour time frame to increase the likelihood of the drug user entering treatment.
       •Sheriff Greene is also part of the MCMHRB suicide prevention community awareness campaign targeting men.
      “The partnership between The Mahoning County Mental Health and Recovery Board and The Mahoning County Sheriff’s department is a true example of outstanding cooperation and team work, and is a true benefit to the residents of Mahoning County ” said Duane Piccirilli, executive director of the Mahoning County Mental Health and Recovery Board
  Six-Tenths Mill Renewal Levy Key To Maintaining The Boardman Park District  
  October 15, 2020 Edition  
     The purpose of Boardman Park’s six-tenths mill renewal issue on the November 3 ballot is to maintain a revenue stream to operate the park. Boardman Park offers a variety of recreational facilities and programs year-round that enhance the quality of life for the community it serves. The Green Oasis is not only a wildlife sanctuary, but also a place where families enjoy 243 acres of recreational greenspace in the heart of Boardman.
      Over the last several years, Boardman Park has experienced a significant increase in the number of visitors, where today, close to half a million people visit the park annually. We believe that the continued increase in the number of visitors clearly demonstrates that Boardman Park is one of the most popular areas for family recreation in the Mahoning Valley. The popularity of Boardman Park can be attributed to our community’s positive response and enthusiastic participation in the diverse and multigenerational programs we offer year-round, as well as our unique footprint of recreational facilities.
      1-Mill Levy 72 Years
      For 72 years, Boardman Park has been operating on the equivalent of a 1-mill levy.
      In 1948 the Park District’s first real property tax levy was approved, which was a 1-mill levy, and today, 72 years later, Boardman Park continues to operate on the equivalent of a 1-mill levy, which consists of two voted levies---three-tenths mill and six-tenths mill, and one non-voted levy of one-tenth of a mill.
      Annually, these levies generate approximately $871,000, which represents 75% of the park district’s annual income. In order to provide this tax revenue, the owner of a $100,000 home contributes approximately $30 per year, or just 5 cents per day to support the mission of the park. While operating on a 1-mill levy, the size of the Boardman Park District has more than tripled since 1947, where today the park provides 60 acres for active recreational purposes and preserves 234 acres as greenspace.
      Only Park in Ohio
      Boardman Park is the only public park in Ohio that has operated on the same tax millage rate for 72 years. Boardman Park is a long-time member of the Ohio Parks and Recreation Association (OPRA), which has over 2,000 members. Per the OPRA, “OPRA is not aware of any other park or park district in Ohio that has been operating at the same tax millage rate for 72 years.”
      Boardman Preserves What’s Precious…
      The Environment
      Public parks offer countless benefits to the communities they serve. However, there are times when people tend to take the benefits of public parks for granted, as well as the vital role parks play in the quality of life for the communities they serve. While fun, happiness and play are fundamental to growth and development, the expanded role of public parks is more critical than ever. Programs, services, events and opportunities offered by local, state and national parks and recreation agencies positively impact lives and society as a whole.
      It is the mission of Boardman Park to provide a diversity of recreational and educational opportunities in an environment that lends itself to pleasant family experiences, and to preserve areas of natural habitat; however, and perhaps most importantly, during these times of climate change, the Green Oasis provides the following environmental benefits to our community:
       •Boardman Park preserves 294 acres of greenspace that provides critical environmental functions that contribute to many of life’s essentials---mitigating stormwater run-off, cleaning the water and the air and returning oxygen to the atmosphere. There are approximately 38,100 trees within the 254 acres. These trees will intercept 14.5 million gallons of storm water each year; and will remove 6.4 million pounds of atmospheric carbon. The overall environmental benefit to our community is valued at $1.5 million per year, as well as keeping our living environment healthy.
       •Boardman Park preserves 194 acres of natural habitat that protects many native species of plants and animals and is an excellent representative of Ohio’s glaciated Beech/Maple forests and lowland hardwood forests. The natural area provides vegetative buffers to development and preserves habitat for wildlife, facilitates a biodiversity and establishes an ecological integrity.
       •Boardman Park protects over 18-acres of wetlands and McKay’s Run that is a major tributary of the Yellowcreek Water Shed. Wetland habitats serve essential functions in an ecosystem, including acting as water filters, providing flood and erosion control, and furnishing food and homes for fish and wildlife. Wetlands also absorb excess nutrients, sediments, and other pollutants before they reach rivers, lakes, and other waterbodies.
      Although the following benefits are not environmental; they do have a positive impact on our community:
       •Enrich the Quality of Life: Boardman Park’s unique and diverse footprint of recreational and educational opportunities provides a place for children and families to connect with nature and recreate outdoors together. According to research performed at small local parks, spending time outdoors and connecting with nature improves general mood and attitude, reduces stress, improves mindfulness and creativity, and promotes community connections. Community bonds and connection are what holds a community together.
       •Variety of Recreational Facilities: Boardman Park provides sand volleyball, tennis and pickleball courts, practice tennis wall, softball and hardball fields, four-miles of trails, three unique playgrounds, an 18-hole disc golf course and Paws Town Dog Park.
      Just a Small Piece of the Pie
      Keeps the Green Oasis Green
      Recently, a pie chart was developed based on information provided by the Mahoning County Auditor that illustrates the percent allocation of a tax dollar paid in Boardman Township to the following government entities: Boardman Local Schools – 56.44%, Boardman Township – 21.36%, Mahoning County – 16.1%, Mahoning County Joint Vocational School District – 3.1%, Mill Creek Park – 2%, and Boardman Park – 1%. Budget Challenges
      Boardman Park’s budget is severely limited primarily due to operating, preserving and improving the park on essentially a 1-mill levy for 72 years. Additionally, the park’s budget has been further challenged by the following:
       •Dramatic increase in attendance, which has resulted in a 40% increase in operating cost since 2009
       •Reductions in local government funding and reimbursements from the State of Ohio. Boardman Park has lost $185,000 or about 14% of its budget since 2009
       •Boardman Park’s budget has not kept up with the rate of inflation, because there is no inflation factor built into real property tax levies---per the Bureau of Labor Statistics’ Consumer Price Index, prices are 19.4% higher in 2019 than prices in 2009
       •Due to COVID-19, the park district has seen approximately a 15% decrease in its annual income. From mid-March through May, the pandemic forced the park to close its rental facilities and cancel programs, which has severely impacted its internal revenue streams, i.e. rental income represents approximately 17% of the annual income and activity fees represent about 10.5% of the annual income.
      0.6 Mill Renewal Levy = No New Taxes
      On the November 3 General Election Ballot, Boardman Park, asks the community to approve the renewal of an existing six-tenths mill levy. This is a renewal of an existing levy, which means No New Taxes. The levy generates $522,800 per year, which represents 45% of Boardman Park’s annual income.
      Crucial Levy – 45 % of Budget Income
      Last Chance to Renew
      Considering the challenges confronting Boardman Park’s budget, the passage of the six-tenths mill levy is crucial because it is our last chance to preserve approximately one-half of the park’s annual income. approximately $522,800. The small issue on the November 3 ballot is the park’s last chance to renew this levy before it expires. If the levy is not renewed, then the Park will lose 45% of its annual income beginning in 2021. To that end, the passage of the Levy is crucial to efforts in keeping Boardman Park a viable recreational and natural resource for the benefit of the community it serves.
      Dan Slagle Jr. Boardman Park’s executive director, says “We believe that Boardman Park plays a vital role in keeping Boardman “A Nice Place to Call Home.” Please be assured that the Board of Park Commissioners, Trent Cailor, Joyce Mistovich and Ken Goldsboro, and its staff will continue to work diligently to meet the recreational needs of our community and create wholesome opportunities to live and interact with family, friends, and neighbors while serving as prudent stewards of the tax dollars entrusted to them.”
  School Board Approves $22,436 Payment For Title I Services For Students Who Do Not Attend Boardman Local Schools  
  Face Mask Policy Adopted:   October 8, 2020 Edition  
     BY JOHN A. DARNELL JR.
      associate editor
      During meetings in August and September, 2020, the Boardman Local School Board approved a variety of resolutions for programs and services, including payment of $22,436 for services to students who reside in the Boardman Local School District, but do not attend the Boardman Local Schools.
      Funds diverted from the local system for students who do not attend school in the district included $14,209.97 to Valley Christian School (charter), 4401 Southern Blvd., Youngstown, Oh; $2,991.57 to ALCD School (a private, not for profit school for children with learning difficulties in first through eighth grades; total enrollment at 55 students), 118 West Wood St., Youngstown, Oh.; and $2,991.57 to St. Christine’s School, South Schenley Ave., Youngstown, Oh. and St. Nicholas School in Struthers (both parochial schools).
      The funding was approved by the Boardman School Board through agreements with Supplemental Educational Services Inc. (SES), 3590 South Canfield-Niles Rd., Canfield, Oh.
      According to the agreement between the local board and SES, the agency will provide staff for the delivery of Title I services to “Boardman Local School District” students at the four schools.
      Title I funds are targeted to high-poverty schools and districts and used to provide educational services to students who are educationally disadvantaged or at risk of failing to meet state standards.
      Food Program Participation
      The Boardman School Board also approved an application form and participation in federal and state food services programs.
      According to the application form, for the 2018-2019 school year, the Boardman Local School District provided 171,713 total free lunches, as well as 22,622 ‘reduced price’ lunches. That qualifies the local district for an “extra 2-cents reimbursement rate,” says the application.
      Agreement With Alta Head Start
      The Boardman Board approved an agreement with Alta Head Start that will provide a classroom to the agency at Robinwood Lane Elementary School, 835 Indianola Rd. The school board said it had determined “that a portion...of Robinwood Lane is not needed at this time for its own public school purposes.”
      Alta Head Start/Early Head Start, headquartered on Wilkinson Ave., Youngstown, Oh., is a pre-school program licensed by the Ohio Department of Jobs & Family Services, that is designed to improve the quality of life for children ages birth to 5-years-old and give them a ‘head start’ in education.
      Agreement With Campbell, South Range
      Under agreements with Campbell City Schools, as well as the South Range Local School District, that were approved by the Boardman Local School Board, Boardman Local School District will provide special education services to students in the Campbell and South Range systems at an estimated cost of $19,000 student.
      The services to be performed by Boardman are subject to the following conditions, according to the agreement approved by the Boardman Local School Board---
       1) The services will be performed by an intervention specialist on the staff of and employed by Boardman.
       2) The services will be performed in the classroom and community worksites for intervention services operated by Boardman.
       3) Each Campbell School District and South Range student shall be transported to and from Boardman High School.
       4) Boardman shall prepare and submit... a report of the intervention services provided and related services as delineated on the Individual Education Plans (IEP).
       5) Boardman by and through its intervention specialists and related service providers shall assess the students’ services as delineated in the IEP.
       6) Boardman shall participate in the students’ IEP and ETR meetings offering support for intervention services and related services.
      Agreement With Capstone Academy
      An agreement with Capstone Academy of the Educational Service Center of Northeast Ohio, located in Mantua, Oh., was approved by the Boardman Local School Board.
      The Capstone Academy program is housed within the Hattie Larlham residential facility. The non profit agency provides medical, recreational, and vocational services to children and adults with significant developmental and physical disabilities as well as profound medically fragile conditions.
      The Academy’s ‘distance learning’ program, provides, according to its contract with the Boardman School District, “the highest quality educational services possible during these unprecedented times. Ohio schools are required to follow current guidance provided from the U.S. Department of Education, the Ohio Department of Education, and consideration of best practices to provide a Free Appropriate Public Education (FAPE) for the duration of the pandemic emergency. All schools must provide educational opportunities that meet the state required instructional hours annually. To provide these mandated academic hours, the Capstone Academy 2020/2021 distance learning plan will include a combination of remote learning and direct vices provided in the student’s residential unit at Hattie Larlham. Although the school intends to start the school year following a distance learning/direct services hybrid model, Capstone Academy will be prepared to switch to full remote learning if conditions change.”
      It adds--- “With this consideration, the Hattie Larlham COVID-19 task force has made the judicious decision to lock-down the building and quarantine all individuals onto their residential units. Only essential staff (e.g. direct care workers, nurses, therapy staff) are being permitted on the units. Parents and non-essential service providers are not permitted to have direct interactions with the children.”
      The Boardman Local School Board agreement with Captone says “Intervention Specialists will create videotaped lessons in all core areas (ELA, Math, Science, and Social Studies) for each grade-level. The virtual lessons will support the Ohio Learning Standards – Extended for school-age students and the Ohio Early Learning and Development Standards for preschool students. The Capstone Academy Paraprofessionals will assist students in accessing academic videos. Supplemental online content will be provided weekly to support the lessons.
      “The Capstone Academy Art Specialist, Massage Therapist, and Music Specialist will provide virtual lessons in Art, Adapted Physical Activity, and Music. The Hattie Larlham direct care providers will be asked to assist the students in accessing archived lessons and supplemental materials. Our program contracts with the Hattie Larlham therapy staff to provide related services. These professionals are also approved to have interactions with individuals on the living units. As per student IEPs, Occupational, Physical, Speech Language, and Massage therapies will continue to be provided through direct services to the students. Therapy staff will implement IEP goals and collect data.”
      Face Mask Policy
      In September, the Boardman Local School Board approved face mask policy. It reads---
      “During times of elevated communicable disease community spread (pandemic or epidemic), the Superintendent will issue periodic guidance through Board of Education plans/resolution(s) in alignment with public health officials and/or in accordance with government edicts and including any Pandemic Plan developed by the District’s Pandemic Response Team.
      “School settings can be a source of community spread. Wearing face masks/coverings is especially important during these times and can help mitigate the risk of exposure from person to person.
      “As such, during times of elevated communicable disease community spread, the Superintendent may activate this policy by notifying the school community, requiring all school staff, volunteers and visitors (including vendors) to wear appropriate face masks/coverings on school grounds unless it is unsafe to do so or where doing so would significantly interfere with the District’s educational or operational processes.
      “Face masks/shields will be provided by the district to employees. Alternatively, employees may elect to wear their own face coverings if they meet the requirements of this policy as well as any requirements issued by State or local health
      departments.
      “In addition, the Board may require that students shall wear a face mask unless they are unable to do so for a health or developmental reason. Efforts will be made to reduce any social stigma for a student who, for medical or developmental
      reasons, cannot and should not wear a mask.
      “If face masks/coverings are required, and no exception is applicable, students shall be subject to disciplinary action in accordance with the Student Code of Conduct/Student Discipline Code, and in accordance with policies of the Board
      and/or may be reassigned by the Superintendent to an online/virtual learning environment if the Superintendent determines that reassignment is necessary to protect the health and safety of the student or others.
      “During times of elevated communicable disease community spread as determined by the Board in consultation with health professionals, all students are required to wear masks while being transported on District school buses or other modes of school transportation.”
      Stipends Approved
      The Boardman Board of Education authorized stipends to be paid to the following individuals for the performance of certain business duties for the 2020-2021 school year which are in addition to their regular duties. The stipends will be paid in quarterly payments and shall be reviewed annually:
       •Matt McKenzie, $10,000; Michelle Peters, $250; Timothy Saxton, $5,000; and Robyn Triveri, $1,000.
      The school board approved stipends for employees who are members of the 2020-2021 Local Professional Development Committee. The stipends will be paid out of Title II-A funds:
       •Jared Cardillo, administrator, $750; Amy Carkido, secretary, $750; Randall Ebie, administrator, $750; Michael Gerthung, teacher, $750; Stephanie Racz, teacher, $750; and Jerry Turillo, teacher $750.
      Christopher Clones was awarded a stipend of $2,562.50 for summer additional hours of taping and editing of school productions.
      Kristin Conroy was approved as Title 1 Coordinator for the 2020-2021 school year and receive a stipend of $10,600 to be paid with Title 1 federal funds.
      Karen Kannal was approved for four quarterly payments of $2500 for supervising the After School Programs for the 2020-2021 school year. The cost will be paid from the revenue collected from those programs.
      Recognition
      The school board approved resolutions recognized the efforts of McKenzie, as well as Stadium Dr. teachers Beth Bean and Elizabeth Murphy.
      “The Boardman School Board would like to officially recognize Director of Buildings and Grounds Matt McKenzie and his maintenance and custodial staff for their hard work and diligence in preparing the buildings for health and safety under Covid-19 protocols.
      “They sanitized and cleaned, installed more than 400 touchless sanitizers in every classroom across six buildings, moved extra desks, chairs, and other unused items into storage and the biggest job of all, they helped set up and distribute more than 5000 pieces of plexiglass throughout our buildings.
      Beth Bean and Elizabeth Murphy spent the spring and summer in a painting project at Stadium Drive. They transformed the kindergarten hallway into a Dr. Suess storybook.
      Other hallways were also painted with uplifting messages, and other story characters. The murals are life size,and the students and staff love them. One Fish, Two Fish, the Gak and Dogs in Cars, just to mention a few.
      “The project began shortly after Covid-19
      closed all school buildings statewide (in Mar., 2020) for instruction. Mrs. Bean and Mrs. Murphy
      socially distanced as they painted….and used projectors and a lot of creativity to paint all these characters. It took all spring, and most of the summer,” the school board said.
      Donations
      At their September meeting, the school board approved donations of $100 each, from BJs Restaurant and the Telischak Co. Ltd. for use at Center Intermediate School’s “Where Everyone Belongs” program.
      Worker’s Compensation
      The school board entered into a one year agreement with Tartan Benefit Services LTD., effective September 1. Tartan Benefit Services will provide assistance with Workers’ Compensation claims at a cost of $7,350 and unemployment claims at a cost of $750.
      Mentor Supplemental Contracts
      Supplemental contracts as mentors were awarded to Chad DeAngelo, Holly Gozur, Kelsie Harris, Liz Holter, Stacy Hunter, Traci O’Brian, Mary Jane Marinucci, Michele Prokop, Lisa Rucci and Megan Zimmers.
  40,000 Face Masks Free To Residents  
  October 8, 2020 Edition  
     photo/John A. Darnell jr.
       BOARDMAN TOWNSHIP officials gave away some 40,000 free face masks to residents on Sat., Oct. 3 at the Government Center during a drive-thru event. There was a constant stream of cars during the three-hour the masks were offered. Pictured, Trustee Brad Calhoun offer-up one of the boxes of masks. Funding for the masks was provided from funds awarded to Boardman Township through the CARES Act.
  Ryan: ‘I drink the water you drink. My opponent isn’t even from this district.’  
  October 1, 2020 Edition  
Christina Hagan (L), Tim Ryan (R)
     BY JOHN A. DARNELL JR.
      associate editor
      The Boardman Civic Association held its annual Candidates and Issues Night forum last week at the Maag Outdoor Amphitheater in Boardman Park, where candidates on the ballot in November were featured, as well as issues of particular local interest were featured. About 125 persons attended.
      Engaging in spirited offerings to those in attendance were challenger Christina Hagan (R) and incumbent Tim Ryan (D) who are seeking the 13th District seat in the United States House of Representatives, where Ryan has served for the last 18 years.
      Hagan, 31, who has previously served as the youngest female member ever in the Ohio House of Representatives (three terms), spoke first saying “I am pro-life, pro-second amendment and I stand for working class Americans.
      “It’s time to send someone to Washington, D.C. who represents working class values and doesn’t forgot what they campaign on...It’s time to send a real, working class leader to Washington who fought for, and not against our safety forces.”
      Hagan said the 13th District has lost “year after year after year” in an unparalleled way,” noting the city of Youngstown has the second, highest rate of poverty in the United States, something that is “simply unacceptable.”
      She said her candidacy has been endorsed by President Donald Trump, Sen. Rob Portman and Congressman Bill Johnson.
      Ryan, 47, contended there are “a lot of people trying to shade the issues...trying to pin me as some socialist who is out of touch with our district.”
      Saying that a Georgetown University student concluded he is the second-most, bipartisan legislator in Ohio and the 35-most bipartisan legislator (out of 435) in the United States House of Representatives, Ryan said “I will work across the aisle with anybody...I’ve taken on Nancy Pelosi and the Democrats, and I’ve taken on Donald Trump. I get paid to represent you.”
      Ryan agreed with Hagan that the 13th District has been forgotten for a long time, saying he would “take on anybody to see that doesn’t happen.”
      He decried his critics who claim he and Democratcs are anti-police who want to defund law enforcement.
      “I have funded the police,” Ryan said, adding he has used his position as a member of the House Appropriations Committee “to fund almost 100 police officers in this district and dozens of fire-fighters.
      “I’ve brought back tens of millions of dollars to this district so our communities are safe.”
      Ryan said that Hagan, while a member of the Ohio House “led the charge to oppose SB5 that was designed to take away collective bargaining rights for police, fire-fighters, teachers and nurses.
      “If you’re for cops, you are for their collective bargaining rights, which I am.”
      Speaking about economic development, Ryan said he has “brought back $4.6 billion to my communities in the 13th District,” citing the TJX project, Lordstown Motors, the GM/LG battery plant, and including $40 million for Youngstown State University, that have created “thousands of jobs.”
      Ryan charged his opponent does not live in the 13th District.
      “I’ve lived her my whole life. I drink the water you drink. My opponent isn’t even from this district, and two years ago she didn’t live in the district and lost there, and if she loses again, she probably find another one,” Ryan said.
      Ryan and Hagan were given one question to answer, about a ‘zero protection plan,’ that would forgive loans given during the COVID-19 pandemic.
      Ryan said “loans need to be forgiven” and he also supports two other measures---one that would provide relief for small, family businesses, and another for relief to the arts and entertainment industry.
      “I think it is absolutely shameful (loan relief legislation) has been put on hold,” Ryan said.
      He concluded rhetorically, “We’re going to put a pause on unemployment insurance and rent help and help for working class people; and no pause for a Supreme Court justice?
      “I think that is putting politics before people.”
      Hagan agreed with Ryan there has been a lack of relief for small business owners...“people at the bottom of the spectrum.”
      She said, however, “When the government incentavises not working, it makes it even more difficult on small business to get through this period.
      “I would make sure small business is supported without the government ‘lording’ over them,” adding “It is time to give money back to the people who earned it, and the government stop redistributing it.”
     
      PPICTURED: photos/John A. Darnell jr.
       13th DISTRICT CONGRESSIONAL CANDIDATES, Christina Hagan, left, and incumbent Tim Ryan, at right, opened the Boardman Civic Association’s annual Candidates and Issues forum held last week at Boardman Park. While Hagan said a leader is needed in Washington, D.C. who supports safety forces, Ryan countered, saying he has funded police and fire-fighter positions in the 13th District.
      Email comments to:
      bnews@zoominternet.net
  Among Six, ‘Local’ Tax Renewal Issues On The November Ballot, One Is Solely For The Boardman Police Department  
  BOARDMAN CIVIC ASSOCIATION ELECTION FORUM:   October 1, 2020 Edition  
      There will be six, tax levy renewal issues on the November 3, general election ballot; all of which were addressed last week at the Boardman Civic Association’s annual Candidates and Issues forum held at Boardman Park. They include three Boardman Township levies, including one that solely provides fund for the Boardman Police Department; two for the Boardman Local School District; and one issue of less than one-mil for Boardman Park’s Green Oasis.
      Speaking on the Boardman Township issues was Administrator Jason Loree, who said renewal of the issues “are very important to our community.
      “These are challenging times for our community,” Loree said, and these levies provide funds for all of our safety forces, as well as the road department and zoning...These are the folks who are doing a heck of a job during a very difficult time.”
      Loree said the 3.85-mil police levy was first approved by the electorate in 2011 and generates about $3.5 million, or about half of the department’s annual budget.
      Other Boardman Township issues include a 2.5-mil issue first approved in 1995 that generates approximately $1.8 million, as well as a seventh-tenths-mil issue that generates $265,000.
      “All totaled, these levies generate about $5.5 million for our township,” Loree said, while also noting there will be a Boardman Park renewal issue on the ballot and urging support for the measure saying “The park is a beautiful place, and let’s keep it that way.”
      Of critical need to Boardman Park is its six-tenths-mil renewal that generates about 45 per cent, or $522,000, of the district’s annual income. “It will cost the owner of a $100,000 home less than $19 a year,” park commissioner Joyce Mistovich said, adding that the park has operated on the same millage (1-mil) for 72 years.
      Boardman Park has 60 acres of land designated for recreational purposes and 183 acres of natural habitat.
      “The Boardman Park Board and staff have never wavered from our mission...and have worked diligently to meet the recreational needs of an ever-growing community, while the board serves as prudent stewards of the tax dollars entrusted to use,” Mistovich said.
      Boardman Local School Superintendent Tim Saxton, now in his fifth year at the helm, said the district will have two renewal issues on the ballot, a 5.9-mil levy, first approved in 1996, that generates $4 million a year; and a 6-mil issue, first approved in 1991, that generates $3 million.
      Saxton said the district has used CARES Act funds to offset the cost of plexiglass barriers needed to operate the system (due to the coronavirus pandemic), as well as masks and other PPE purchases. He said over the last four years the teaching staff has been reduced by 16 teachers; and also noted the district lost some $880,000 “that was removed by the government during the COVID event. We need to work together to keep Boardman Local Schools strong.”
  Schools’ State Report Card Could Have No Value At All  
  Boardman Local School Graduation Rate At 97.8%:   September 24, 2020 Edition  
     The Ohio Department of Education’s (ODE) annual schools’ report cards were issued last week, but they didn’t feature any grades for districts or buildings this year.
      The ODE said the 2020 reports cards for districts and buildings do not contain overall grades, individual grades or ratings for given components or performance measures.
      “The report cards also do not include any information about student performance on state tests, the academic growth of students during the school year and the extent to which achievement gaps are being addressed for students. This is in keeping with legislation passed as a result of the coronavirus pandemic that also canceled the administration of most state tests for the last portion of the 2019-2020 school year,” the ODE released in a statement.
      The 2020 edition of grades does feature information on graduation rates, Prepared for Success indicators and some other measures.
      The Boardman Local School District’s report card listed enrollment in the system at 3,922 students, noting a four-year graduation rate of 94.1 per cent; and a five-year graduation rate of 97.8 per cent.
      According to the ODE, 1,660 students, or 42.3 per cent of students in the Boardman Local School District are economically disadvantaged.
      The annual report card also shows that 98.8 per cent of students in the third grade met requirements for reading for promotion to the fourth grade.
      “While schools have less information available than in years past, we still emphasize the importance of gauging where students are in terms of academic achievement and using available district data to inform improvement to instruction,” said Paolo DeMaria, superintendent of public instruction. “The education community’s goal is to carry forward the teamwork, collaboration and care we’ve seen since last spring through this new academic year and beyond. We have never been more focused, united and determined to ensure each child is challenged to learn, prepared to pursue a fulfilling post-high school path and empowered to become a resilient, lifelong learner who contributes to society.”
      The Ohio Education Association responded to the release urging an overhaul to the state’s report card system.
      “These latest school and district report cards shine a spotlight on the major problems with the entire report card scheme,” OEA President Scott DiMauro said. “The fact that the state recognizes that any 2020 letter grades and rankings would be useless without spring testing data proves just how overly-reliant the existing grade card system is on standardized tests. If the essential value of the state’s report card system is standardized test results — which do not accurately represent how a student, teacher or school is performing — the state’s current report card system has no value at all.”
  Candidate For County Prosecutor’s Office Failed To Appropriately Exhibit Six Suitability Dimensions...In Addition To His Composure (Namely His Propensity To Cry) While At FBI Training Academy  
  Martin Desmond’s Inability To Sleep Became Exacerbated:   September 24, 2020 Edition  
     BY JOHN A. DARNELL JR.
      associate editor
      A candidate for Mahoning County Prosecutor, Martin Desmond, of Ridgely Park, Poland, Oh., once sued the United States Department of Justice after he failed to graduate from the FBI Academy.
      After obtaining a law degree in 2003, Desmond was hired as an assistant Mahoning County prosecutor, but was fired by Prosecutor Paul Gains in Apr., 2017.
      In dismissing Desmond, Gains cited violations of various statutes and rules of professional conduct “by engaging in communications with adverse parties; knowingly making himself a witness to a lawsuit against the county, his superior and a fellow assistant prosecutor, uttering false claims of ethical violations against a fellow assistant prosecutor, causing a grievance to be filed against her,” and other things.
      Now Desmond is running against his former boss in the November general elections, while issues over his dismissal are still being contested in court.
      Gains, of Harrington Ave., Boardman, has served as Mahoning County Prosecutor for 23 years.
      Shortly before he was sworn into office in 1997, in the early morning hours of Christmas Day, 1996, an assassin broke into Gains home and shot him. He survived.
      Reputed Youngstown mobster Lenine Strollo said that he had Gains shot in late 1996 for refusing to cooperate with the mob.
      Desmond also had a close encounter with crime, as he notes frequently---In Dec., 1997, while alone in his mother’s home, he was held at gunpoint and led around his mother’s house by an armed robber, who was later revealed to be the ‘Tommy Hilfiger rapist,’ a man who had raped several women in the area.
      After his attempted assassination, Gains, a former Youngstown police officer, was sworn in as Mahoning County Prosecutor.
      After his encounter with the alleged rapist, Desmond accepted a job as a financial assistant with the FBI in Cleveland; and prior to accepting that position, he applied to become an FBI agent. In Dec., 1999, he was notified he was to undergo training at the FBI Academy in Quantico, Va.
      A court document in Desmond’s suit against the Department of Justice notes while in training, Desmond broke an ankle, and was ‘recycled’ into another training class, where he was informed he would be rated on six ‘suitability’ dimensions, including conscientiousness, emotional maturity, initiative, integrity and honesty and judgement.
      Once training was completed, Desmond told the FBI that he wanted to be assigned to the FBI’s Cleveland office “because he was worried about his mother’s safety in light of the Dec., 1997 incident.”
      Instead, Desmond was slated for assignment to the Chicago FBI office, so he filed a ‘hardship claim’ to be assigned to the FBI’s Cleveland office.
      The FBI denied Desmond’s request, noting it did not qualify under their policy for a hardship transfer.
      In his suit against the Department of Justice, Desmond claimed he had experienced “sleeplessness” since the Dec., 1997 incident, and when he was ordered to go to Chicago, his sleeplessness was exacerbated.
      Desmond told the court that before receiving notification to go to the FBI Academy, he slept an average of three to five hours a night, and after he received the training orders he began to sleep an average of just two to four hours a night; and that “fear, anxiety and guilt, from which he suffered since the...rapist incident grew even stronger upon learning of his orders to Chicago,” apparently to the point that Desmond began to suffer from PTSD.
      According to a federal court document, an FBI agent said that Desmond exhibited a “perceived change in demeanor,” and suggested he seek the aid of the Employee Assistance Program (EAP).
      Desmond said he had met with the EAP and “received a diagnosis of PTSD.”
      On Sept. 18, 2000, according to a court document, an FBI agent sent a memorandum to Assistant Director Jeffrey Higginbotham, concluding that Desmond “failed to appropriately exhibit the six suitability dimensions...in addition to his composure (namely his propensity to cry), attitude, diligence, maturity, and/or emotional stability in relation to his ankle injury...”
      Ten days later, Higgenbotham recommended Desmond’s removal as an FBI agent, “based upon his lack of emotional maturity and cooperativeness.”
      On Nov. 6, 2000, Desmond was notified he was being removed from the FBI’s New Agents Training Program, and was given the option of returning to his former position as a financial analyst in Cleveland.
      “Should you choose not to return to that position, you are hereby dismissed from the rolls of the FBI,” Desmond was informed in an official letter by Michael E. Varnum, deputy assistant director/personnel officer of the FBI.
      The letter, according to a court document, detailed a number of issues regarding Desmond’s suitability, including his performance as “lax and unreliable” when he was assigned to a switch-board duty at the academy, as well as “his sulking behavior upon receiving his orders.”
      “Several instances were reported to me where your work ethic at the switchboard was not proper,” Varnum said, adding “For example, instead of enhancing your skills on the switchboard, you decided to play solitaire on the computer. You also failed to assist another telephone operator who was busy with at least five, other calls. Rather than helping the operator, you carried on a private conversation with another person at the main desk. During one particular shift, you left the switchboard for a one and a half hour dinner break, however no dinner break was scheduled for that shift. You performed in a lax and unreliable manner by leaving another employee alone to work the switchboard for such an extended period of time.”
      In a federal court action, Desmond claimed he was a victim of discrimination, in violation of the Rehabilitation Action of 1973.
      Desmond argued he had a mental impairment that substantially limited one of his “major life activities...specifically that his PTSD limited his ability to sleep.”
      A opinion by United States District Judge Colleen Kollar-Kotelly said that “It should be noted that not only does sleeping comprise a substantial percentage of the average person’s day, it is also necessary for survival. With the indispensable nature of sleep in mind, this court adopts the view...that sleeping is a major life activity.”
      The Judge noted that Desmond was unable to demonstrate that his PTSD substantially limited his ability to sleep, “thus he does not have a disability as defined by the Rehabilitation Act.”
      On Nov. 14, 2000, Desmond resigned from the Federal Bureau of Investigation.
  CARES Act Funds Will Be Used To Buy 166,750 Disposable Face Masks That Will Be Distributed Free To Residents  
  September 17, 2020 Edition  
     BY JOHN A. DARNELL JR.
      associate editor
      Boardman Township has received upwards of $700,000 in grant funding from the Coronavirus Aid, Relief and Economic Security Act, also known as the CARES Act.
      Acting within specific guidelines of the act, meeting on Monday night, Boardman Trustees Tom Costello, Brad Calhoun and Larry Moliterno approved expenditure of some $161,000 of Cares Act funds for the police and fire department, and also for the purchase of some 166,750 disposable face masks.
      Acting upon the recommendation of Police Chief Todd Werth, Trustees approved the purchase of a mobile message board and speed trailer for $15,735; as well as the purchase of nine laptop computers for $26,928.
      Acting upon the recommendation of Fire Chief Mark Pitzer, Trustees okayed $68,666 for the purchase of three chest compression systems and three laryngoscopes.
      “These COVID-19 related expenses will be submitted to the CARES Act for reimbursement,” Township Administrator Jason Loree said.
      In another COVID-related matter, Trustees approved an expense of not more than $50,000 for the purchase of 166,750 disposable face masks.
      Currently under consideration in light of the purchase, is a plan to distribute the masks to the pubic, free of charge, perhaps at a drive-thru event at the Government Center.
      “We should get the masks in within two to three weeks, and have discussed handing them out to the public,” Trustee Tom Costello said, adding “We expect to be reimbursed for the expense, under the strict guideline of the CARES Act.
      The CARES Act, is a $2.2 trillion economic stimulus bill passed by the 116th U.S. Congress and signed into law by President Donald Trump on March 27 in response to the economic fallout of the COVID-19 pandemic in the United States.
      Unrelated to CARES Act funds, Trustees approved the purchase of 27 thermal printers for use in Boardman Police Department cruisers at a cost a $14,850.
      Following multiple public meetings, a community survey and numerous stakeholder meetings, Trustees approved multiple amendments to the township zoning resolution.
      Trustees declared Halloween will be observed on Sat., Oct. 31, from 5:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. in Boardman Township.
  SPECIAL LADY SPECIAL EVENT SPECIAL PLACE  
  Moschella Terlesky Golf Invitational At The Lake Club Sept 21:   September 17, 2020 Edition  
     The 5th annual Christine Moschella Terlesky/Lake Club Girls Golf High School Invitational, hosted by Boardman High School, will take place on Monday, September 21 at The Lake Club. 16 teams are entered including Austintown, Boardman, Canfield, Canton GlenOak, Green, Howland, and Massillon Jackson in Division I.
      In Division 2, the teams are Champion, Columbiana, Hubbard, Lakeview, Cardinal Mooney, Niles McKinley, Poland, Struthers and Ursuline. Play begins with a shotgun start at 1:00 p.m.
      Christine is a former history teacher and girls golf coach, and assistant coach in basketball and track at Boardman High School. She attended Boardman High School where she was an All Steel Valley basketball player, and went on to play at Akron, as well as Youngstown State University.
      Over seven years ago, she was suddenly diagnosed with ALS and the battle began. She had to retire from teaching and coaching and had three young children to raise with her husband, Brian. Throughout her battle, Christine has become an inspiration to many in the community, and across the state.
      Five years ago Denise and Dan Gorski, both former Boardman High School teachers and coaches, met with Ed Muransky, owner and president of the Lake Club; as well as Chris Sammartino, chief operating officer; and director of golf Don Confoey to discuss hosting the invitational event and naming it in honor of Christine---for her contributions and dedication to women’s sports in this area and, in particular women’s golf.
      “The tournament has been receiving more and more statewide recognition and there is a waiting list to get into it,” Denise Gorski stated, adding “that is a tribute to Ed and Chris Muransky and the entire Lake Club staff as they run a first class operation and have made this tournament such a special event.
      “From the beginning Ed made it a two-day event with a practice round the day before the actual tournament. An awards banquet took place after the tournament that included a dinner that was spectacular, including food stations. Steve Cocca from Cocca’s Pizza and Shelly LaBerto from Chick-fil-A Tiffany Square Plaza have been annual supporting sponsors by donating dinner after the practice round and lunch on the day of the tournament.
      “But this year obviously due to the pandemic, some things have to be adjusted for the safety of everyone.”
      Local teams have performed very well at the tournament. Canfield won the Division I tournament in 2017, Boardman was second to Green in 2016, and Poland was second to Canton GlenOak in 2018. In Division 2, Poland won in 2016, Beaver Local in 2017, and Cardinal Mooney has won the past two years.
      Individually, former Spartan golfer Jacinta Pikunas (now at the Univeristy oif Akron) and GlenOak’s Jessica Hahn hold the Division I tournament record shooting a score of 69. Canfield’s former golfer Gillian Cerimele is fourth on that list shooting 72 in 2017. And Christine Terlesky’s niece Jenna Vivo (now with Youngstown State lady links team) is tenth on that list shooting a 77 in 2017. In Division 2, Jackie Adler from Hubbard has the Division 2 tournament record shooting a 79 last year. Cardinal Mooney’s Jayne Bernard and Alyssa Rapp are second on the list, shooting 80 and 82 respectively last year.
      All participating teams pay an entrance fee to compete. But the tournament also serves as a fundraiser for the Terlesky family as their incredible medical bills continue to mount. Sponsorships are available at $500 (Gold Level), $250 (Silver Level), and $100 (Bronze Level). All sponsors are recognized the day of the tournament on Monday, September 21.
      If interested in being a sponsor, contact Denise Gorski at denise.gorski@boardmanschools.org.
      Gorski summarized the event by saying “Christine was able to come to the first year of the tournament and gave such an inspiring speech to the golfers on fighting adversity and taking every day as a positive day. The next two years she was not feeling well and could not attend.
      “Last year, I and many others were overwhelmed when her husband Brian brought her into the banquet. We all knew how physically hard this was for her and yet she wanted to come meet the girls again that she met years earlier.
      “There wasn’t a dry eye in the room when we talked about her story and introduced her with her family. It took her well over a week to recover from going out and she hadn’t been out in months
      “The girls from 16 different high schools asked to have a picture taken with her outside. You can see Christine at the top of the steps with her family and Spartan golfers near her. It was truly a very emotional night for everyone.”
      Christine Terlesky still has the ability to communicate, and does so often on Facebook.
      Some recent posts detail what she deals with on a daily basis---
      “If I can live without spewing hate, knocking
      on death’s door, so can everyone else”
      “We have all been put through the ringer, and yet so many of you dropped what they were doing to help me. I’m so humbled I wish I could repay you all.
      “I’ll be honest with all of you, ALS has recently thoroughly has kicked my butt. From the paralysis to the breathing machine. To waking up drowning in my own phlegm. The pain that would come and go is constant. Add to that the isolation, I haven’t been very pleasant.
      “I fear this one thing will break me... I lost the ability to eat. It’s been 3, months, lost around sixty pounds, but who cares? ALS takes the ability to swallow, so I can’t even drink a coke without choking. I am living in the homemade Italian food mecca in the US, best kept secret in the country plus my mom who was trained by my Grandma who would’ve made Gordon Ramsey cry, is a fantastic cook. yes, this will be the thing that breaks me. My husband caught me looking at pics of food on the Internet. He said I looked at food the same way a 13yr old boy sneaks looking at porn. He’s looking into getting food sites blocked.
      “Oh well, if this has taught me anything is to enjoy and savor things and as much as I love food, I miss people so much more. The anger on facebook is out of control with some, and I have to wonder who are you really angry with??
      If I can live without spewing hate, knocking on death’s door, so can everyone else. Seriously though, for some people on here, therapy might be a good idea.
      “I am paralyzed. I have a feeding tube and a catheter... I am desperate for some relief... I wouldn’t be asking you for help if I wasn’t having this much pain I am dealing with. I just want the pain to stop for a short time”
      I am asking for help. As most of you know I have ALS. As my body deteriorates, my muscles are atrophied, but also freezing in pain. I need a masseuse willing to come to my house to massage and stretch.
      I realize some people are uncomfortable around disabled. So they would have to know that I am paralyzed. I have a feeding tube and a catheter. I have recently lost a lot of weight but still have some muscle left. I am desperate for some relief. My insurance doesn’t cover this, but I am willing to pay,. I also have to stay on my bed for the massage. I also have to keep my oxygen mask on the entirety of it, I also need the masseuse to wear a mask, and to top it off I can barely speak.
      I wouldn’t be asking you for help if I wasn’t having this much pain I am dealing with. I just want the pain to stop for a short time. And I like. Aromatherapy but not a requirement. I know this sounds terrible but I promise I am a nice person.
      Thank you everyone for all the support and generosity.
     
  WPG Says Southern Park’s $30 Million Improvements, 50th Anniversary Delayed Until 2021 Due To Pandemic  
  New Lifestyle Tenants Will Include Golf Entertainment Center:   September 3, 2020 Edition  
     BY JOHN A. DARNELL JR.
      associate editor
      The Columbus, Ohio-based Washington Prime Group (WPG) has announced a delay in the final construction of DeBartolo Commons at the Southern Park Mall, and as well, made formal announcement of new tenants and capital improvements at the enclosed shopping complex.
      “I want to keep everybody posted about DeBartolo Commons, our athletic and entertainment venue. While we’ve lost a few months when the wretched coronavirus reared its ugly head, we’re back on track,” said Lou Conforti, CEO and director of WPG. Until the pandemic struck in mid-March, WPG had planned to complete DeBartolo Commons by the fall of this year.”
      DeBartolo Commons is now scheduled to open in 2021.
      “Due to the WPG’s focus on the health and safety of its guests, retailers, employees and community partners during the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic, WPG’s community event celebrating the grand opening of DeBartolo Commons as well as Southern Park’s 50th anniversary, originally scheduled for late 2020, will be postponed to 2021. Details will be announced as circumstances stabilize and return to normal,” Conforti said.
      The DeBartolo Commons, as well as other capital projects at Southern Park are part of an overall plan to pour more than $30 million into improvements and upgrades into the mall, that will be reshaped into a shopping, as well as community entertainment venue.
      “WPG remains committed to executing a first class redevelopment project,” Conforti said.
      Leasing and Development Initiatives
      WPG has executed a lease with Planet Fitness to relocate its existing Boardman neighborhood gym and open a new 28,000 sq-ft location at the Southern Park Mall that will occupy existing space between JCPenney and Buffalo Wild Wings.
      WPG has executed an agreement with Macy’s whereby Macy’s will renovate their store (a project said to cost about $2 million) and extend the term of their lease.
      WPG has executed an agreement with PNC Bank and PNC will renovate their existing location at Southern Park and extend the term of their lease.
      JCPenney has expressed its intention to remain a key tenant at Southern Park Mall.
      WPG has executed a lease for an indoor golf entertainment center. The facility, that will be called The Bunker, will occupy a new 36,000 sq-ft space and will include multiple dining and bar areas as well as an outdoor patio overlooking DeBartolo Commons;
      WPG said The Bunker’s attached restaurant will be called Bogey’s, and will be operated by the owners of the existing Bogey’s Restaurant in nearby Lowellville; and
      The Bunker will include the Ben Curtis Golf Academy, a full service learning and teaching academy run by 2003 British Open Champion Ben Curtis. Owner and operator of The Bunker will be Boardman native Jonah Karzmer, former golf pro at Tee Up driving range on Southern Blvd. While attending Kent State University, Karzmer was a former Golden Flashes teammate of Curtis on a team that qualified for the national championships. He served a brief term as golf pro at the then Fonderlac Country Club, and later won the club championship at the Lake Club four straight years. A 1999 graduate of Boardman High School and All-Ohio prep golfer, Karzmer is a 2015 inductee into the Boardman High School Hall of Fame.
      “As a lifelong valley golfer, I am very excited to help bring this needed indoor golf facility to our area. With a total of twelve golf simulators and an entire learning center run by a dedicated PGA professional and overseen by major champion Ben Curtis, I am confident this center will be a great facility for our local golf community. From scratch golfers to beginners, from serious league players to those ‘Top Golf’ entertainment seekers, our simulators and learning center will have something for everyone,” Karzmer said.
      The Bunker will partner with the Ben Curtis Golf Academy to offer an indoor golf academy and learning center. The facility will include driving range options with two dedicated launch monitors and golf simulators, a putting green, a dedicated short game area, and a fully integrated classroom for group and individual lessons as well as study opportunities.
      Curtis, a four-time PGA tour winner and member of the winning 2008 United States Ryder Cup Team, is founder of the Ben Curtis Family Foundation and the Ben Curtis Golf Academy. “The opportunity to expand our reach into the golf-rich Mahoning Valley is very exciting. Jonah and I have talked for a long time now about the need to help provide a teaching platform to help grow the game, especially for junior golfers. This center should be a great place for that and more,” Curtis said.
      The planned capital improvement initiatives will build upon previously announced redevelopment activities including---
      The demolition of the former Sears is complete and construction is underway for DeBartolo Commons, a four-acre, outdoor athletic and entertainment green space and event venue. The mall redevelopment project’s centerpiece is named in honor of, and will serve to commemorate the legacy of Edward J. DeBartolo Sr. and the DeBartolo York family. Mr. DeBartolo was a pioneer in the construction of shopping malls in America.
      Steel Valley Brew Works, a local brew and entertainment venue, will sit next to The Bunker and Bogey’s, and will also overlook and connect to DeBartolo Commons. It will feature indoor bocce courts, billiards, pinball, foosball, and other leisure games, providing guests an experience that can’t be found elsewhere in the area. In addition, Steel Valley Brew Works plans to periodically partner with food truck operators to bring the best local food trucks to its Southern Park Mall location.
      “As I’ve mentioned previously, I’ve grown to love all things Boardman as well as Greater Youngstown and we’ve promised great things at Southern Park Mall. Well, say hello to our new entertainment and fitness tenants, The Bunker, Bogey’s and Planet Fitness. In addition, we’re excited Macy’s has agreed to renovate their store and extend their lease, as has PNC Bank and, last but certainly not least, JC Penney has expressed its intention to remain,” Conforti said.
      “Josh Langenheim, owner of Steel Valley Brew Works, is one of the most energetic human beings I’ve ever met and is as loyal a Youngstowner you’ll ever meet,” Conforti said.
      “Everybody who calls this area their home deserves only the best in dining, entertainment, merchandise and fitness offerings and I’m really pumped we’re going to deliver,” he added.
      $8 Million Invested To Date
      To date, WPG has invested about $8 million into capital improvements at Southern Park.Improvements made at Southern Park Mall are expected to provide numerous benefits to the Boardman community, including--
       •A first class retail and entertainment hub that will attract businesses and solidify and expand jobs at Southern Park Mall;
       •Expanded real estate property, sales and income tax bases for the benefit of local governments and taxpayers;
       •A first class greenspace – DeBartolo Commons – built to host outdoor entertainment, sporting and other public events and activities throughout the year;
       •A hike and bike path across the Southern Park Mall property that connects DeBartolo Commons to Boardman Park and eventually most residential neighborhoods south of 224, both east and west of Market St.; and
       •Major new storm water facilities on the Southern Park Mall property that will relieve the potential for flooding downstream in Boardman Township south of the mall property.
      Most Important Asset
      The Southern Park Mall is Boardman Township’s largest source of property taxes, generating an annual tax revenue of some $1.719 million. The mall property, including WPG and Cafaro Corp. interests, is valued at some $51 million.
  Youngstown Gets More Than $88 Million In Grants and Entitlements More Than The Entire Boardman Local School Revenue Stream  
  WITH $148 MILLION IN REVENUE AND UNDER STATE CONTROL, YOUNGSTOWN SCHOOLS STILL FAIL:   August 13, 2020 Edition  
     BY JOHN A. DARNELL JR.
      associate editor
      In 2015, under the provisions of House Bill 70, the Ohio Department of Education (DOE) assumed control of the Youngstown City School District. HB 70 allowed a state takeover of the district because Youngstown schools attained the dubious distinction of at least three, straight years with failed report cards and failure to meet state standards.
      In the absence of local control, and under ‘state control,’ the Youngstown City Schools are still regarded as among the worst public school districts in Ohio.
      The state takeover stripped the elected Youngstown School Board of power, and put control of the district in the hands of an appointed commission and CEO. The CEO can close school buildings or, if the schools don’t show improvement, turn them over to a charter school operator. The local school board can still put levies on the ballot, but it has no oversight or say over how the district spends its money.
      Youngstown first appointed CEO, Krish Mohip (who elevated his pay without board approval) from about $105,000 to $170,000 a year) noted when he stepped into his dictatorial role, “What I’ve learned is that when you’re faced with failure such as Youngstown has you should not fear what (a takeover) can do for a district, because at the heart of it it’s really about putting children first.”
      What has the takeover done for the Youngstown City School District and its children? They are still failing.
      The city school district’s new CEO, Justin Jennings says “I still believe, however, that the district is moving in the right direction. We have strong educators, both in the classroom and in administration, who are working hard to help our scholars improve and to make sure we are preparing them for life after high school.” (From the CEO’s Corner).
      But the report cards reflect a totally different picture---For example, on its most recent state report card, the Youngstown City Schools attained an ‘F’ when graded by the Ohio Department of Education on how students are prepared for success.
      Boardman Local Schools didn’t fare much better, attaining a grade of ‘D’ on the state report card that uses its standards (not local standards) when considering how well-prepared students are for future opportunities.
      Speaking about Youngstown City School District’s failing 2016-17 report card, Mohip said the report card “shows that we have a long way to go.”
      Using state audits and Cupp reports, there is widespread disparity between the Youngstown City Schools and the Boardman Local School District.
      For example, at the end of Fiscal Year 2019, the city schools’ annual revenue is $148.637 million, while Boardman Local School District’s annual revenue is reported at $53.316 million, according to the audit reports.
      Some $88.370 million of the total revenues of Youngstown School District’s annual revenue comes from “grants and entitlements,”---that much money in a school district that has only 1200 more students than the Boardman Local School System.
      Boardman Local Schools receive about $14.3 million in subsidies, according to its audit report for the fiscal year ending June 30, 2019.
      According to the Cupp Report, there are 9,715 school-age children living within the boundaries of the Youngstown City School District. Of that total, only 5,264 students are enrolled in the city schools.
      Boardman Local School District’s enrollment, according to the Cupp Report is 4,044 students.
      While Boardman Local Schools receive $3,388 per pupil in state funding, the Youngstown City Schools receive $19,016 per pupil in state funding, according to the Cupp Report.
      When compared with Boardman Local Schools, the Youngstown City School District appears top-heavy with administrators.
      According to the Cupp Report, there are 28 administrative personnel employed in Boardman Local Schools and their average annual salary is $72,055. Using the same standard of comparison, there are 136 administrators in the Youngstown City Schools, and their annual average salary is $74,213.
      More than 60 per cent of the teaching staff at Boardman Local Schools have ten-plus years of teaching experience, according to the Cupp Report. Only 28 per cent of the teaching staff at Youngstown City Schools have ten or more years of experience.
      Those figures are also reflected in the average teaching salaries of the two school districts. Boardman Local Schools average teachers’ salary is $59,3322 a year; while annual pay for teachers in the Youngstown City Schools is $47,077, despite the fact that total revenue per pupil in Boardman Local Schools is $12,457, and is more than double that in Youngstown schools, where the average annual per pupil revenue is $26,292.
      Local funding received from property taxes paid to Boardman Local Schools is reported at some $32.897 million, according to an audit report for the fiscal year ending June 30, 2019. Using the same audit report, Youngstown City Schools collect only $25.395 million a year in property taxes.
      The dichotomy between Youngstown City Schools and the Boardman Local School District is readily apparent---In Boardman Local Schools there remains local control, fewer administrators, better teaching salaries, and passing grades on the laborious state report cards.
      In Youngstown City Schools, there is no local control, a lot more administrators, lower teaching salaries and continuous failing report cards.
  Police Told Stabbing Victim Was Refused Transport To Hospital  
  August 6, 2020 Edition  
     BY JOHN A. DARNELL JR.
      associate editor
      Boardman police are investigating a stabbing that happened Thurs., Aug. 30 at an apartment at 3976 South Schenley Ave. 25-year-old Jonathan Vigo was stabbed at least seven times, Det. Greg Stepuk, of the Boardman Police Department, told The Boardman News.
      Authorities learned about the ‘potential’ of a stabbing about 2:50 p.m. and that the victim “was not being allowed to go to the hospital” from an Austintown police officer, who in turn notified a Poland Township officer, who then contacted Boardman police.
      When police arrived at the apartment building, they said a highly-intoxicated Andrea Marusia Soto-Velazco, 31, told them that no one had been stabbed.
      A short time later, Vigo emerged from the apartment building, Ptl. Nick Newland said.
      “Vigo had visible stab wounds to his left bicep, back of his neck and left thigh,” Officer Newland said, adding the man claimed he had been stabbed by Orlando Matos-Carillo, 31, of Homewood Dr., Warren, Oh. Vigo was transported to St. Elizabeth Hospital in Youngstown.
      Prior to police learning of the assault, Ptl. Newland said that Vigo had called a friend, stating he had been stabbed, adding that Soto-Velazco and one of her neighbors, Ahmed Raza Rajput, 23, of 3976 South Schenley Ave., #1, “did not want to take him to the hospital.”
      Ptl. Newland said when he asked if Rajut tried to take Vigo to the hospital, “Rajput said that he was going to drive Vigo to the hospital, but Soto-Velazco told him to go back to the apartment.”
      Police arrested Rajput and Soto-Velazco on a charge of obstruction and Officer Newland said once the pair were at the Boardman Police Station, “Soto-Velazco became uncooperative and confrontational with officers” and kicked Officer Newland.
      Soto-Velazco was then taken to the floor and handcuffed.
      “She urinated while still on the floor,” Officer Newland said.
      Soto-Velazco, who said she is a secretary at Six Brothers Auto Sales on Wick Ave. in Youngstown, was then lodged in the county jail on a $4500 bond.
      Rajput was booked and then released on a summons.
      The stabbing happened eight days after Soto-Velazco called police expressing concerns that she and her boyfriend, Vigo, had been threatened by her ex-boyfriend, Matos-Carillo.
      In a July 20 police report, Soto-Velazco, born in Peru, told police that Matos-Carillo was the “only” person she knew when she moved to the Mahoning Valley from Idaho.
      Soto-Velazco told Ptl. Stephen Dubos after she began dating Matos-Carillo, “he became very controlling and then emotionally abusive, and ‘two months ago’ she moved from Warren to Boardman to get away from him.”
      Shortly after she moved to South Schenley Ave., Soto-Velazco told police that “Vigo moved from New York City” and had been staying with her.
      “Matos-Carillo has harassed and threatened them ever since, sending messages such as ‘I will destroy you. I will kill you. I will kill him,’” Officer Dubos reported.
      Soto-Velazco told police on July 20, shortly before midnight, Matos-Carillo came to her apartment brandishing a knife.
      Det. Stepuk said Matos-Carillo has been arrested on a charge of felonious assault, and indications are that Vigo has gone back to New York City.custody of Boardman police by authrorites in Lordstown, after he had been arrested during a traffic stop, Boardman Ptl. Evan Beil said.
      “Matos-Carillo claimed that [Vigo] was the aggressor and [Vigo] would not show up in court to testify against him” because he “got onto a train to New York,” Officer Beil said, adding that Matos-Carillo admitted he stabbed Vigo, but it was in self defense.
      Matos-Carillo had an apparent stab wound to his right knee, Officer Beil said.
      Asked why he had not gone to a hospital in the three days since the stabbing, Matos-Carillo told Officer Beil he “was afraid he would go to jail.”
      Matos-Carillo told the policeman he had bonded Soto-Velazco out of jail and if the felonious assault charges went to court, the woman “would testify in his behalf.”
      According to Boardman police reports, after Soto-Velazco bonded out of jail, she returned to her apartment on Aug. 1 and made claims that Vigo stole her cell phone, her United States passport and $350 in cash,
      “She stated she had allowed Vigo to stay in her apartment, even though they are broken-up. She further stated she believes Vigo is heading to Orlando, Fla.,” Soto-Velazco told Ptl. Jeffrey Lytle.
      Matos-Carillo was turned over to the
  Kelly Tomcsanyi Earns PharmD Degree  
  August 6, 2020 Edition  
      KELLY TOMCSANYI, a 2014 graduate of Boardman High School, and a May, 2020 graduate of Ohio Northern University, with a degree in PharmD, is now an officially licensed pharmacist in Ohio and Indiana. She began her professional career with a post-graduate residency program at the University of Cincinnati, focusing on long term pharmacy. She is the daughter of Michael and Sharon Tomcsanyi, of Boardman.
  Kandace Beatty Named County Miss Agriculture  
  July 30, 2020 Edition  
Kandace Beatty
      Kandace Beatty of Boardman, (at right) has been named the 2021 Mahoning County Junior Miss Agriculture USA Queen. Kandace is the 12-year-old daughter of Kelley Beatty and David Collins and she attends Glenwood Junior High School. Her agricultural interests include llamas, horses, chickens and small farms/ gardens. Kandace is a three year member of 4-H and five year member of Girl Scouts. She is also on the Food and Fashion Board. Kandace will be competing at the state level in spring 2021 with the opportunity to continue on to the National Miss Agriculture USA Competition that will be held in Ohio in June 2021. Miss Agriculture USA is a national nonprofit organization that focuses on positively promoting agriculture featuring queens of all ages that promote, celebrate and educate about all the diverse aspects of agriculture.
  Racketeering Allegations Soil Ohio GOP  
  July 30, 2020 Edition  
     BY JOHN A. DARNELL JR.
      associate editor
      Charges in a federal racketeering conspiracy leveled against Ohio House Speaker Larry Householder by the U.S. Attorney’s Office/Southern District of Ohio have soiled the Ohio Republican Party’s reputation; and to be sure, former State Rep. Don Manning ‘bought’ into the scheme to finance a bailout for nuclear power ‘plants, hook, line and sinker.’
      Manning, of New Middletown, was a Republican member of the Ohio House of Representatives. He represented District 59 from 2019 until his death on March 20, 2020.
      Last week, the Speaker, as well as the former chair of Ohio Republican Party and three other individuals and a 501(c)(4) entity were charged in federal public corruption racketeering conspiracy involving approximately $60 million paid Generation Now (a 501(c)(4) entity) to pass and uphold a billion-dollar nuclear plant bailout.
      It is alleged that Householder, 61, of Glenford, Ohio, and the enterprise conspired to violate the racketeering statute through wire fraud and receipt of millions of dollars in bribes and money laundering.
      According to an 80-page criminal complaint unsealed last week, from March 2017 to March 2020, the enterprise received millions of dollars in exchange for Householder’s and the enterprise’s help in passing House Bill 6, a billion-dollar bailout that saved two failing, Ohio nuclear power plants from closing.
      In May, 2019, The Ohio House of Representative approved a bill to gut clean energy standards and subsidize at-risk nuclear and coal plants after a last-minute push from a Trump reelection official to secure its passage, so wrote Gavin Bade in an article in Politico, noting that Bob Paduchik, a senior adviser to the Trump reelection campaign, made calls to at least five members of the Ohio House of Representatives, pressuring them to vote ‘yes’ on the bill.
      “Sources said Paduchik emphasized preserving jobs at the Perry and Davis-Besse nuclear plants, both located in northeastern Ohio on the shores of Lake Erie,” Bade said.
      Legislators contacted by Paduchik included Republican Reps. Don Manning, Darrell Kick, Laura Lanese, Reggie Stoltzfus and Dave Greenspan, sources told Bade.
      FirstEnergy Solutions had threatened to shut the plants down if they were not subsidized, and Cleveland.com reported Republican Gov. Mike DeWine, and labor union leaders made similar arguments in other 11th hour calls to lawmakers.
      According to FollowTheMoney.org., Manning’s campaign for elective office raised some $157,000, including the following contributions---$5000 from the Larry Householder Campaign Committee, $46,949 from the Ohio Republican Party, $3540 from the Ohio Republican Caucus and $1000 from First Energy Corp.
      Manning voted in favor of House Bill 6 and issued the following statement on the issue on June 21,2019:
      “Recently in the Ohio House of Representatives, I voted to pass Ohio House Bill 6. This legislation passed with ten Democratic votes in a rare but important demonstration of bipartisan cooperation. While it seems the two parties in Washington can find little to nothing to work together on, here in Ohio we united on an energy policy that makes sense and will save thousands of Ohio Jobs.
      “Those that call House Bill 6 a nuclear bailout are hiding half of the story. While it’s true that HB6 will create a surcharge of $1 on monthly residential electric bills, the legislation also eliminates two green energy surcharges that total $4.68 each month, on average.
      “It is also worth noting that unless HB6 passes, Ohio’s green energy subsides will continue to grow every year — paid for by taxpayers on their energy bills every month.
      “Now, the math is so simple that any fifth-grader can tell you that it will save customers money on their electricity bills. If we eliminate the $4.68 green energy subsidy and replace it with a $1 surcharge, the average ratepayer will save on average $3.68 per month.
      “Let me be clear, I voted for House Bill 6 because lower electricity prices matter to the people of my district. Electricity costs matter to every Ohioan — homeowners, renters, local elected officials and employers. Cutting costs for working families is important. It is also a priority to protect the small business owners and manufacturers whose bottom lines are driven by energy costs.
      “Saving Ohio jobs, whether they are in my district or the most rural part of the state, is a priority of mine and of the Republicans in the General Assembly. When a bill like House Bill 6 allows us to save 4,300 high-paying jobs, I am going to vote for it, plain and simple. Especially when saving those jobs also means protecting two power plants that generate enough electricity to power 2 million Ohio homes.
      “For more than a decade, Ohio ratepayers have been paying for two green energy surcharges that have accomplished nothing. All the windmills and solar panels combined do not come close to the 2,200 megawatts of electricity the Davis-Besse and Perry nuclear plants produce.
      “If clean-air is really the reason we have sunk millions of dollars into renewable forms of energy, we should have a larger appreciation for the role nuclear energy has in our zero-carbon emission portfolio. After all, 90% of the zero-carbon emission energy that is produced in Ohio comes from those two plants.
      “It is time for Ohio to have an energy policy based on logic and economics instead of virtue signaling and rhetoric.
      “The two green energy surcharges have been here for more than a decade with little to nothing to show for your investment. It is time to focus on what works today and not what may work in ten, twenty, fifty or 100 years down the road.”
      Once HB6 was approved, opponents of the measure sought to put the issue on the Nov., 2020 ballot.
      Those who wanted to see the bailout bill survive didn’t waiting for an election campaign; they spent money to keep an election on the matter from happening. A group called Ohioans for Energy Security sponsored two horribly false television ads and sent misleading mailers urging people not to sign the referendum petition.
      The ads were masterpieces of misdirection, casting the referendum effort as an attempt by the Chinese government to take over Ohioans’ electric power, and falsely claiming Chinese interests were buying power plants in Ohio.
      Once again, Rep. Manning stepped up to the plate in support of HB6, issuing the following statement on Sept. 22, 2019:
      “...You elected me to be a new voice for the [Mahoning] Valley in Columbus. On countless issues, I work to make sure people of the valley are forgotten no longer.
      “Bipartisan legislators and I voted to remove ridiculous green-energy subsidies from electric bills, saving $3.68 per month. These green mandates took money from pockets to prop up an industry that despite massive investment, accounts for less than 10 percent of Ohio’s electricity generation. Regardless of the “Green New Deal” narrative you hear from coastal liberals, wind and solar electric generation simply does not create enough power to be sources of Ohio’s zero carbon emission electricity generation.
      “In passing Ohio House Bill 6, we replaced green energy subsidy with a smaller fee to help stabilize Ohio’s two nuclear power plants that employ thousands of Ohioans and generate 15 percent of Ohio’s electricity and are responsible for 80 percent of Ohio’s zero-carbon electricity. We passed HB6 to remove high subsidies for inconsequential and ill-performing green energy industry.
      “Now, out-of-state interests want to remove your voice in the Ohio House. They are spending millions in deceptive messaging to overturn HB6. A powerful duo of leftist green energy interests and powerful oil and natural gas groups have teamed up to kill nuclear power in Ohio.
      “Their reasoning: Oil and natural gas interests are fine giving billions to green energy companies because they know green energy produces peanuts overall. Gas interests want a bigger market share. They know if nuclear dies, that 15 percent share would be replaced by natural gas.
      “This is about energy monopoly.
      “Another concern is coziness between several large developers in the oil and natural gas industries and banks owned by the Chinese government. We cannot allow the Chinese to have leverage over our energy infrastructure.
      “Soon, you will be approached to sign a petition to overturn House Bill 6. They will lie and pressure you for your name, your address and your signature.
      “If you sign that petition, you are signing away $177 a year in personal energy costs. You are signing to kill over 4,300 Ohio jobs. You are signing up to fund the green new deal and give oil and gas tycoons a near monopoly of our energy grid. You are opening the door to our power grid to the Chinese.
      “Do not sign their petition. Elizabeth Warren and Bernie Sanders do not want what is best for the Valley. You elected me to have your back and I always will — especially when it comes to protecting our energy freedom.”
      In 2018, Manning ran for a vacant seat in the House of Representatives, previously held by John Boccieri (D). Manning narrowly defeated Democrat Eric Ungaro, 50.35% to 49.65%.
      Manning never finished his first term in office, when died suddenly on March 20, 2020 of a suspected heart attack.
      Ohio Republicans, led by Speaker Householder, named Canfield resident Allesandro Cutrona as Manning’s replacement, as Cutrona pledged to give $50,000 to the Ohio Republican Party.
      In a statement on the claims of corruption, Cutrona said he is “appalled and dismayed” at the allegations.
      Cutrona bested five finalists for the position, one of whom said during the vetting process for the post, “Believe me, Householder made it very clear when we had our ‘one-on-one,’ about his money and power.”
      Ohio Republican Party Chair, Jane Timkin, has called for Householder’s resignation.
      “I understand and respect the presumption of innocence. All charges filed must be proved in court. These are basic legal rights. However, there is no right to hold public office. This is a privilege by the people of Ohio to officeholders. It’s a higher calling and requires a higher level of responsibility. That is why I am calling on Larry Householder to step down as Speaker of the House and resign as a legislator,” Timken said.
      In Jan., 2019, Timkin was narrowly elected Ohio GOP chair, narrowly defeating incumbent Matt Borges.
      Timken, President Trump’s favored candidate, was elected by the state GOP’s central committee after two deadlocked votes. After closed-door negotiations, Borges agreed to withdraw in exchange for being named chairman emeritus of the party. Her election marked a defeat for former Ohio Gov. John Kasich, who had endorsed and lobbied for Borges to remain as party chair.
      Borges, 48, of Bexley, Oh., was also named by the U.S. Attorney’s Office/Southern District of Ohio in the allegations of public corruption.
  Alexis Walters Named WKBN-TV News Anchor  
  July 23, 2020 Edition  
     WKBN-TV 27 announce the promotion of meteorologist and reporter Alexis Walters to the station’s evening anchor desk. Walters has been a part of the WKBN team for three years and will serve as a co-anchor on evening newscasts.
      “Alexis brings objective storytelling to fit the proud tradition of our newscasts. She is a familiar face for our viewers to get to know better as she takes on this new role and continues to report in their neighborhoods,” said Mitch Davis, WKBN news director.
      Walters will join Dave Sess for 27 First News from 5:00 p.m.-6:30 p.m. She will also co-anchor with Stan Boney on FOX at 10:00 p.m. and 27 First News at 11:00 p.m.
      “I’m so excited for this opportunity to join the newscasts every night and keep viewers informed on what’s going on in our local community,” said Walters. “I look forward to sharing stories and continuing to call this valley home.”
      Walters is an Ohio native and a graduate of Kent State University, with a degree in journalism and communications. She is also a graduate of Mississippi State University with a degree in meteorology.
      “Alexis has proven herself to be a valuable part of both our news and weather teams here at WKBN, I look forward to her continued excellence as a part of this award-winning team” said David Coy, WKBN-TV president and general manager.
      Walters will permanently join the Channel 27 anchor desk on Monday, August 10.
  Teen Gets Probation In Case Involving Threat To Shoot Federal Lawmen  
  “I was an immature kid, messing around on-line”:   July 16, 2020 Edition  
     BY JOHN A. DARNELL JR.
      associate editor
      19-year-old Justin Olsen, of Presidential Dr., Boardman, who said he was “messing around on-line” when he posted “shoot every federal agent on sight,” was ordered for a mental evaluation and was granted three years of probation last week by U.S. District Court Judge Solomon Oliver Jr.
      Olsen was arrested last August shortly after he turned 18-years-old after making on-line posts under the moniker of ‘The Army of Christ.’ In the posts he wrote about mass shootings, attacks on Planned Parenthood, bombing gay bars and supported stocking-up on weapons federal government could possibly ban. The Army of Christ had some 4,000 followers.
      Authorities rushed to arrest Olsen just three days after mass shootings in Dayton, Ohio, and El Paso, Texas with a Boardman Court prosecutor citing the attacks as a justification for an ‘urgent arrest.’
      Olsen, a 2019 graduate of Boardman High School where he maintained a 3.8 grade average, was arrested on Aug. 7 at his father’s home on Oakridge Dr. and spent the next four and a half months in the Mahoning County Jail until he entered a guilty plea to threatening a federal law enforcement officer and was released to the custody of his mother.
      His sentencing hearing had been postponed several times due to the COVID-19 pandemic.
      “I was an immature kid messing around on-line,” Olsen told Judge Oliver. “I would really like to move on and show people that that’s not who I am.” He also told the judge “The time I spent in the county jail was a harsh awakening.”
      His attorney, J. Gerald Ingram, called his client’s posts “reckless, foolhardy and inappropriate.” He urged leniency, saying Olsen had never been in trouble in the past.
      Ingram said his client has no prior criminal record and hopes to attend college in the future.
      Assistant U.S. Attorney Yasmine Makridis said Olsen had thousands of online followers, and she feared his words could incite violence.
      “It is my sincere hope that he learns from this,” Makridis said.
      In accepting the plea, the prosecution did not have to fight a motion to suppress evidence seized during a ‘protective sweep’ of Olsen’s father’s home on Aug. 7. filed by Atty. Ingram.
      Counsel had claimed the so-called “protective sweep” conducted on Aug. 7 violated his client’s constitutional rights. During that ‘sweep,’ law enforcement authorities found a reported 10,000 rounds of ammunition, as well as guns in a gun safe that belonged to Olsen’s father, Eric.
      “Eric informed all of the law enforcement officers that he was a competitive marksman, and that all of the firearms and ammunition belonged to him,” Atty. Ingram said in the motion to suppress, adding there was a camera on top of the safe that would automatically alert Mr. Olsen if it detected any motion.
      “Eric Olsen never received an alert that Justin was attempting to gain access to the safe,” Atty. Ingram said.
      “Based upon the facts and applicable law, there are no articuable facts the government can present that would warrant a reasonable prudent officer in believing that the area...swept harbored an individual posing a danger to those on the...scene.
      “As a result of evidence improperly viewed during the illegal protective sweep, law enforcement officers obtained a search warrant for the Oakridge Dr. property,” defense counsel said, noting “The search violated the Fourth Amendment’s prohibition against unreasonable search and seizures.”
      Atty. Ingram claimed in order for the ‘protective sweep’ in Olsen’s case “to pass constitutional scrutiny,’ the government (prosecution) had to be able to present facts showed someone was at the Oakridge Dr. home who posed a danger to law enforcement.
      Defense counsel said the camera on top of the gun safe shows that no law enforcement official “appears to be fearful for their well-being---the stark reality is much to the contrary.
      “Officers are chit-chatting with one another...and can be heard laughing and joking as they search Eric Olsen’s room.”
  Teachers’ Union, School Board Reach Agreement On 3-Year Pact With No Wage Increase  
  July 16, 2020 Edition  
     The Boardman Board of Education unanimously approved a 3-year contract with the Boardman Education Association at its regular monthly meeting in June.
      The new contract took effect on July 1 and runs through June 30, 2023. It includes no pay raise for the teaching staff. Healthcare premiums will remain unchanged.
      According to the Cupp Report, the annual teacher’s salary in the Boardman Local Schools is $59,332.
      “The value of a teacher was never more evident than what we experienced these last months of the 2019-20 school year. If there was ever a time that they should be rewarded it is these current times. However, the financial state of our district, community, state and country just does not allow it at this time,” said Supt. Tim Saxton., adding “I respect the fact that our employees understand this reality and we were able to work together to complete a collective bargaining agreement that addresses change, but balances the financial health of the district.”
      The Boardman Education Association ratified the agreement at the end of May. Approximately 300 teachers comprise the Boardman Education Association.
      “Our teachers realize the hardships the pandemic has caused for all school districts and our priority will always be to provide the best education possible for our students,” said Boardman Education Association President Bill Amendol.
      Supt. Saxton said the new agreement has minor changes, such as updating language to match changes in Ohio Revised Code or federal law (Family Medical Leave Act, Janus ruling, etc).
      Notable changes, according to the superintendent include:
       •300 sick days (up from 280 days from the prior contract). Note---state law mandates accumulating 15 sick days per year for employees. It would take 20 years of perfect attendance to reach 300 sick days.
       •Raises the compensation from $20 to $25 when a teacher covers another teacher’s class instead of using a substitute teacher.
       •There is no additional cost to the district since it is a 0% base salary increase.
  Boardman Local Schools Working To Finalize Plans For Aug. 31 Reopening Of System  
  In-Class And Remote Learning Options Under Consideration:   July 9, 2020 Edition  
     BY JOHN A. DARNELL JR.
      associate editor
      Boardman Local Schools are planning to open for the 2020-21 year on Aug. 31, apparently with options for attending classes in school buildings, or offering options for remote learning.
      Supt. Tim Saxton said plans that will be released in July will have “flexibility” in order to accommodate parents who don’t want to send their kids to school.
      “We want to respect that....We want to keep kids in the [Boardman Local School System],” the superintendent said.
      Saxton said the school system doesn’t have all the answers, “but we are working a lot in the background. Our foundational plan is we expect kids to return to school.”
      Last week, Ohio Gov. Mike DeWine announced ‘new guidance’ for resuming school in the fall.
      “We know that each school system, and perhaps each school building, will likely look different in the fall. We also know that Ohio has a long history of local control and that school administrators and teachers know their schools best,” said DeWine. “Working together and consulting with educators and other health officials, we have developed a set of guidelines, backed by science, that each school should follow when developing their reopening plans.”
      A newly-issued guidance report prepared by the Ohio Department of Education advises schools to vigilantly assess symptoms, wash and sanitize hands to prevent spread, thoroughly clean and sanitize the school environment to limit spread on shared surfaces, practice social distancing, and implement a face coverings policy.
      “Just as we have done in the business sector with employees, we are requiring school staff to wear face coverings to reduce the spread of the virus, unless it is unsafe or when doing so could significantly interfere with the learning process.
      “When face coverings aren’t practical, face shields may be considered,” said DeWine. “We strongly recommend that students in third grade and up wear face coverings as well.”
      More details on the new school guidance will soon be available on coronavirus.ohio.gov.
      To assist schools in their efforts to implement the guidance, the Ohio Department of Education has created a lengthy (and laborious) document titled, The Reset and Restart Education Planning Guide for Ohio Schools and Districts, that is designed to help teachers, principals, and administrators with solutions to safety challenges.
      Based on advice from school leaders and educators, the planning guide addresses considerations to ensure the health and safety of students, educators and staff once school buildings reopen. This includes measures for assessing student health, practicing physical distancing, sanitizing surfaces, exercising good hygiene, wearing masks and other components relevant to a student’s daily journey—from stepping on the school bus, to learning in the classroom and eating in the cafeteria. The planning guide also will discuss caring— considerations for ensuring equity, social-emotional learning and behavioral health; teaching—approaches for professional development and effective remote learning; and learning—ideas for assessing students’ learning needs and meeting them where they are.
      The planning guide provides “Operating Assumptions” for local school districts.
      The assumptions say “The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention and Ohio Department of Health indicate that COVID-19 will be present at the start of the 2020-2021 academic year.
      “Also, as has been the experience over the past several months, conditions can change rapidly. District and school planning will need to contemplate various contingencies.
      “As a result, this planning guide operates
      under the following assumptions:”
       • Ohio’s education system must be nimble, flexible and responsive to ensure the health and safety of all students and adults.
       • Schools will need to have the capacity to operate in various modes at different times and, sometimes, with minimum advance notice.
       • When schools are operating with students in the building, they will need to adhere to health and safety guidelines set forth by the Ohio Department of Health and local health departments. Guidelines may change as circumstances change, which most likely should lead to course corrections throughout the year.
       • The traditional school experience as it was known prior to the onset of the pandemic will be different, as will many of the day-to-day practices of schools.
      The ‘plan’ also addresses Expectations for Achievement---
      “As schools consider plans to return for the 2020-2021 school year, educational considerations should be made to ensure each student is challenged, prepared and empowered for his or her future by way of an excellent pre-kindergarten through grade 12 education. This means the commitment to Ohio’s Learning Standards and the four learning domains described in Ohio’s strategic plan for education must continue to be strong. (Note: The four learning domains are listed at the end of this article).
      “These domains include foundational knowledge and skills, well-rounded content, leadership and reasoning skills and social emotional learning.
      “These expectations have not changed because of the pandemic---rather, schools should renew their commitments to upholding the four equal learning domains even though the learning environment may look different,” says the plan.
      The ‘Plan’ Addresses Equity in Education
      The following is excerpted from the The Reset and Restart Education Planning Guide for Ohio Schools and District.
      Importance of Equity: Each Child, Our Future identifies equity as Ohio’s greatest education challenge.
      Equity in education means each child has access to relevant and challenging academic experiences and educational resources necessary for success across race, gender, ethnicity, language, disability, family background and/or income.
      COVID-19 did not create equity challenges in education. Those challenges have been recognized in education for some time, yet the pandemic is revealing and exacerbating deeply rooted social and educational inequities. Further, the global crisis highlights the equity connections across education and other social systems, such as health care, housing and the workforce.
      As educators, communities and policymakers rally together in a tremendous response to the pandemic, equity must remain at the forefront of Ohio’s short and long-term responses and supports.
      The process of reopening schools and defining what the future of education will look like is a perfect opportunity to address equity issues head-on. At every step of the planning process, proposed strategies, approaches and actions should be viewed through an equity lens, asking the question, “How does each element of our plan impact equitable access to a quality education and equitable achievement for those who have historically been underserved?”
      The Boardman Local School District’s Director of Instruction, Jared Cardillo, said last week that the system has to be prepared “to provide instruction to our students in different ways. We are working on that.”
      This spring, the local school completed a “Remote Learning Parent Survey,” to which there were 446 respondents. Only some 71 per cent of the respondents said they were satisfied the ‘remote learning’ provided to students after the schools shut down in March due to the COVID-19 pandemic.
      According to Edward Adams, STEAM technology coordinator for Boardman Local Schools, the survey showed that parents want to see teachers ‘more’ during virtual learning sessions, and there is a need for district-wide consistency.
      “Some parents see a disparity in school buildings,” Adams said, while adding survey respondents favored more “streamlined communication.”
      According to the survey conducted by Boardman Local Schools, there were concerns expressed with the quality of instruction provided during the spring shutdown.
      “Many respondents have classified the work their children received as ‘busy work.’ There is great concern that should remote learning continue students are less likely to achieve the desired intellectual milestones,” says the local system’s survey.
      “Our family is making due with remote learning experience, but our children would be better served in a classroom. I would strongly encourage the school board to return to in-class instruction,” one parent said in response to the Boardman Local School survey.
      The Four Learning Domains
      These were developed by the Ohio Dept of Education. Below is their summary....
      The four equal learning domains are the four areas in which the Ohio Department of Education wants each Ohio student to develop knowledge and skills for success beyond high school.
      Foundational Skills and Knowledge
      For our students to be successful in a rapidly changing economy, we must equip them with foundational knowledge and skills that support lifelong learning. Each child must know how to read and write critically (literacy), work with numbers (numeracy) and use technology to take the best advantage of future learning experiences.
      Well-Rounded Content
      Beyond foundational literacy, numeracy and technology skills, students need exposure to a broad range of subjects and disciplines to help them pinpoint their passions and become lifelong learners. These include social studies, science, world languages, arts, health, physical education and career-technical education fields, among others.
      Leadership and Reasoning Skills
      Success depends on more than academic knowledge. Students must be able to show leadership skills. Among other things, these include learning from mistakes and improving for the future, listening to others and working to achieve a common goal, and giving and receiving feedback. Success through reasoning skills means students know how to draw on many disciplines to synthesize information, develop creative solutions and generate new ideas. These reasoning skills include critical thinking, problem-solving, design and computational thinking, information evaluation and data analytics.
      Social-Emotional Learning
      Research shows that being part of a community improves life satisfaction and health. Doing this successfully means understanding the importance of social interaction and personal feelings. Social-emotional learning includes skills like self-awareness, self-management, social awareness, collaboration, empathy, relationship skills and responsible decision-making. Social-emotional learning gives children the tools to become resilient and persistent in life.
     
  Boardman Native Anthony Colella Named To U.S. Army Field Band  
  July 9, 2020 Edition  
     BY GREG GULAS
      bnews@zoominternet.net
      As a youngster while growing up in Applewood Acres, Anthony Colella was always immersed in music.
      It’s a family trait that he inherited from both the paternal and maternal sides of his family.
      The son of David and Sharon (nee Bradley) Colella, who still reside in Applewood Acres, Colella received word recently that he would, in fact, become the fourth member of his family to be part of a military band when he was chosen for the trombone section – he is one of just four trombonists – of the U.S. Army Field Band, an elite 65-member instrumental ensemble that has played in all 50 states, 25 foreign countries and in front of an estimated 100 million persons.
      He went through a grueling national audition of which he prepped day and night for over an eight-week period, a time that he says was well spent.
      “This is truly a dream come true for me, Colella said. “My brother, D.J. and I would spend our summers as my father’s little equipment helpers and we would go to every single gig he had. Anytime we were in the car with him we were listening to the classics.
      “We learned at an early age from such noted musicians as Beethoven, Strauss, Louie Prima, Brahms, Copland and Frank Sinatra. They were the very best of the best and now, being a professional musician, this is all that I ever wanted.”
      To say that music is in Colella’s blood is an understatement.
      He had the best of all possible music worlds in that his father remains an active local musician – he is also a former band director – his brother, D.J. is the current band director for Girard City Schools while five extended family members on his father’s side have been band directors, three of whom were military musicians – two in the U.S. Army and another in the U.S. Navy.
      He said family gatherings during his formative years always had a musical theme.
      “At our family gatherings, those that could would bring their instruments and play various waltzes, mazurkas and polkas,” he added., “It all came from my great-grandmother, Giovanna. She loved Italian opera and loved music. All four of her kids were raised to play music and the tradition never stopped.
      “My mother is also a trained pianist and church organist. She would always accompany me on piano for my solo during high school. I just found her father’s discharge papers from the Navy and it had a section listed for hobbies. They had listed musician, plays clarinet.
      “Everyone on both sides, even if they didn’t go into music as a career, at least played an instrument in high school band. No matter where I went there was always talk of music.”
      While in grade school, Colella took to playing the trombone and he has never looked back.
      “Coming from a very musical background, I got an early start on trombone when I was in second grade,” he stated. “My dad’s brother, Michael, played trombone and I just thought that was the coolest thing. I used to borrow the instrument from him and just practice.
      “Last summer, my uncle gave me the trombone [a 1975 King 3b] that my grandpa, Vito, had bought for him. I play it every day and it remains one of my most cherished possessions.”
      Colella began taking trombone lessons when he was in fourth grade, doing so with his first primary teacher, Michael Niro.
      “My brother and I would go over together and each received a 30-minute lesson from Mr. Niro,” Colella noted. “I can still remember my first lesson with him. To this day, he remains one of my biggest influences and there’s a direct connection from studying with him to playing professionally, like I do now.
      “He would get me so excited about playing the trombone and I loved going to lessons with him. He was always very good to us and still remains a great family friend.”
      Colella said Boardman Schools were the perfect fit for him as he began to hone his craft.
      “Starting at Boardman was really where the perfect storm collided,” he said. “To come from such a musical background, have a head start and then start with a program like Boardman was absolutely fantastic.
      “Every educator was always so encouraging towards me. The performance experiences I would have in high school, whether it be with the band, jazz band or orchestra, were experiences that only a fraction of a percent of high school students could ever receive.”
      Colella’s final three years of high school were very busy as he was playing trombone three times a day while also rehearsing with the Youngstown Symphony Youth Orchestra.
      “From my sophomore to my senior year, I was playing trombone three times a day and loved every minute of it,” Colella added. “The level of playing there was exceptional then on Monday nights, I would rehearse with the Youngstown Symphony Youth Orchestra, which was under the direction of Dr. Stephen Gage of YSU.
      “It was there that I was playing with the very best high school students from the Northeast Ohio and Western Pennsylvania area. I was the third Colella in the orchestra my first year, my brother was also on trombone and my cousin Victor was on trumpet.
      “Years before my other cousin, Gianna, played clarinet in the orchestra but had graduated by the time I got there. One of the other students in the orchestra, Josh Kauffman, is now lead trumpet with the Army Blues just down the street in D.C. The talent I was around raised my own level of play substantially.”
      The 2012 BHS graduate was the recipient of the Donald V. Clark Memorial Scholarship – named in honor of the BHS band and orchestra member who was killed in a helicopter accident while serving in Iraq in 2008 – and upon graduation, enrolled at Youngstown State University where he studied under the watchful eye of Dr. Michael Crist.
      “I had taken lessons with Dr. Crist in high school so I was already familiar with him,” Colella stated. “He really believed in me and told me that I could do this professionally, if I worked hard enough.
      “I look back very fondly at my time spent at YSU as I was around such great teachers and high-level musicians all the time. Everyone was so passionate and Dr. Crist pushed me to be the best I could be, which I always appreciated.”
      It was during his second year at YSU that Colella’s musical path began to take shape.
      “During my second year at YSU, I received an e-mail from an Ohio National Guard recruiter saying the 122nd Army National Guard Band of Ohio had a few positions open and would be taking auditions,” he noted. “I’m not sure how, but I just knew that this was the right thing for me at that point in my career.
      “I auditioned, was accepted and shipped off to basic training at Ft. Jackson [South Carolina] and the Army School of Music during the summer of 2014.”
      Colella said it was during his stay at the Army School of Music where he met yet another incredibly influential teacher.
      “I studied with Philip Bleinberger while attending the 10-week course in Norfolk, Virginia and told him during my first week that I wanted to play professionally,” he said. “After that week, when I wasn’t getting enough practice hours in, he called me into his office and gave me the kick in the pants that I really needed.
      “When I came back to Ohio that fall, I decided to continue my education at The Ohio State University. It made more logistical sense since the 122nd Army Band worked out of Rickenbacker Air National Guard Base in Columbus.”
      Colella graduated from OSU with a Bachelor of Music in trombone performance and last August, began work on his MA at Western Michigan University.
      “While at Ohio State, I studied with Professor Joseph Duchi,” Colella added. “I spent six years with the 122nd Army Band and I must say, it was one of the hardest working organizations of which I have ever been a member. They have some of the most dedicated service members in its ranks, were always supportive of my further career goals and would accommodate me any way necessary.
      “Leaving them to go to the Field Band was bittersweet. I then started at Western Michigan University last August and began studying with Dr. Steve Wolfinbarger.”
      To say that his first month at WMU was action-packed is an understatement.
      “During my first month there, the Field Band posted a vacancy for trombone,” Colella stated. “The U.S. Army Field Band is considered a military premier ensemble with just 10 such premier bands across the five services so I was very interested.”
      Auditions for premier ensembles, while fierce and competitive, didn’t deter Colella.
      “After the vacancy is posted, the audition happens one of two ways,” he noted. “The first way is by ‘cattle call’ where everybody who applied for the vacancy shows up on audition day and performs from a set list of excerpts, solos, etudes that were given to the candidates at an earlier time. The audition committee then determines the winner through a series of rounds, eliminating candidates each round until only one remains.
      “The second way is similar, however, the first round is done by tape from an earlier date. The audition committee will put out a list of excerpts, solos, etudes to be recorded and then sent in. They will listen to all the tapes and then send out invitations to those who advanced.
      “On the day of the live audition, it is conducted the same way as a cattle call but there are far less people. This is how the Field Band conducted their last audition. I’ve done both types of auditions with this my fourth for a premier band.
      “It is not uncommon for members in these types of ensembles to go through many more auditions. One member of the Air Force premier band told me that between professional orchestra and premier band auditions, he took 17 before he won so I was very lucky in that respect.”
      The hard work paid off for Colella while the waiting game was nerve-racking.
      “I sent in my tape in last November and found out the first week of December that I had been invited to the live round, which was to be held in February,” Colella said. “A week later, I received the list of excerpts from which we were going to be asked to perform.
      “I later found out that for this audition they received somewhere between 60 and 70 tapes. From those tapes, they sent out six invitations for the live audition with three candidates disqualified through medical processing before the day of the audition, which left three.
      “For the next eight weeks I was obsessed with my preparation. All through college I would practice anywhere from four to six hours a day but this type of preparation was on another level. I was so obsessed with winning and wanted it so bad. It was all I could and would think about.
      “A few weeks before the audition, I started playing the entire list of 22 excerpts for a different person every day. These would be my professors at Western Michigan University, professors at different colleges, fellow students or anybody else that would listen.
      “I think I ended up playing for 20 different people. I would record these performances and when I listened back to the recordings, I would slow them down to half speed and follow along with my music, marking every note that was out of tune, out of time, played with a bad sound or anything else I thought might have been wrong.
      “That’s what I would then practice before playing for the next person. I don’t know how many hours I put into this audition throughout the entire process but by the time the audition was over, whichever way it went I was ready to move on.”
      Colella’s audition was held at the First U.S. Army’s headquarters Ft. George G. Meade, Md. on February 4.
      “I played one round for the committee with a curtain up. That way, the committee didn’t know who was playing,” Colella added. “I think there were seven excerpts, sight-reading and a solo on that round. For the second round the curtain came down, I played six more excerpts and then they had me sit in and play excerpts with the current trombone section to hear how I blended with them.
      “This part of the audition was the most fun. I remember playing with them and the hair standing up on the back of my neck. I’m so very lucky to get to play every day now with the same guys.”
      The second round included an interview.
      “After the second round, I had an interview with the committee where they all took turns asking me different questions,” he stated. “After that interview I had a second interview, a one-on-one with one of the officers in the band. Due to extenuating circumstances, they couldn’t name a winner at that moment as only the commander of the band retains hiring authority. That morning, he was told he had to go to a D.C. for a meeting.
      “They sent us back to the airport and told us to hang by our phones and await a call. I found out I had won around 8 p.m. that night and during my layover in Detroit. It’s somewhat uncommon for prior service military personnel to win these auditions. There are a few reasons for that but the main one is that the competition is so fierce and there are so many great players that aren’t already in the military.
      “Another stroke of luck, I guess, was I finished my semester at Western Michigan, transferred from the National Guard to the Active Duty Component and moved to Fort Meade on June 13 to start work.”
      Colella, who was a Sgt. E-5, is now an SSG.
      “Being a professional musician is all I ever wanted, since I started practicing on my uncle’s trombone in first grade,” Colella noted. “Even with all my advantages, it still took an extraordinary amount of hard work, perseverance and luck to make it happen. I ate, drank and slept audition, morning to night.”
      To say that Colella is appreciative of the opportunity is an understatement.
      “This wouldn’t have been possible without my parents, who sacrificed everything they ever wanted to support their children,” he said. “Also, a special thank you to every teacher that took an interest in me out of the goodness of their heart.
      “Nobody does this alone. I am merely the culmination of so many great people who cared about me, loved me and supported me without ever asking for anything in return. The day after I won my audition, I called all my former teachers to thank them because they all had a hand in my development.
      “There were so many other people that I wanted to call but couldn’t because they are no longer with us. My mother’s father, Jack, was a pipefitter for over 30 years while raising six children. He never took a shortcut or the easy way out.
      “He had a hard life and died young. It’s only because of people like him in my life that I’m able to sit here and do what I do. I owe it to people like him to continue to work hard and do my job to the best of my ability.
      “To be able to do that while serving this great country and playing music is truly a blessing. For that, I consider myself very, very lucky.”
      Due to the coronavirus (COVID-19), things are still up in the air as to when Colella will first play while one of the Field Band’s stops, a concert at Boardman Park, already has been cancelled due to the current pandemic.
      “Our tour of the South in the fall has not been cancelled just yet,” he added. “We have, however, put out a lot of on-line content to keep connected with the public.”
     
  Bill Huzicka Finally Comes Home After Battling Rare, Life Threatening Condition That Began At 2019 Ursuline-Boardman Football Game  
  July 2, 2020 Edition  
     BY GREG GULAS
      Boardman News Sports
      bnews@zoominternet.net
      The day was October 18, 2019 when the Boardman Spartans defeated the Ursuline Fighting Irish, 34-19 at YSU’s Stambaugh Stadium.
      It was a day that Mary Ann Huzicka and her family, of Baymar Dr., will never forget.
      While attending the BHS-UHS grid game that night, Huzicka’s husband, Bill, became sick while sitting in the loge as he watched his cousin, Luke Huzicka, play for the Spartans.
      “I remember Bill looking at me, saying that he was freezing and not feeling well at all,” Mary Ann said. “Bill’s cousin, Jeff, suggested we go to the hospital but we went home where he proceeded to vomit and we thought that he had the flu.
      “He got up, did a tree drop (fell face-flat on the floor) at the stroke of midnight on October 21 that knocked out four of his teeth. We knew then that this was something much more serious.
      “I called the ambulance, that took him to St. Elizabeth Hospital on Belmont Ave. in Youngstown where they kept him overnight. All tests came back negative, they said his electrolytes were off while CT scans, an EKG and MRI ruled out everything we were thinking. By Friday, October 25, his temperature kept rising and he was beet red from his neck up.”
      Her frustration had her turning to her brother, Ed Reese, who along with his wife, Diane, own and operate multiple nursing homes, assisted living and work-out centers in the area.
      “I turned to my brother and sister-in-law because I had no idea as to what was going on,” she added. “We called the Cleveland Clinic ICU, only to find out that they were full so Bill was sent to Hillcrest in Mayfield.
      “The fever continued, he remained beet red and after retiring from the U.S. Post Office three years ago he basically did the things that he enjoyed most, which was be with family and friends. He put on 30 pounds and weighed nearly 200 pounds, only to drop down to 125 pounds during this eight-month nightmare.
      “He’s about 148 pounds now, slowly but surely adding more weight to his frame.”
      Bill’s circuitous journey started last October at St. Elizabeth’s Hospital in Youngstown and included subsequent stops at Hillcrest in Mayfield, Briarfield Manor, St. Elizabeth’s Hospital in Boardman and the Cleveland Clinic ICU. From there he was shipped to Boardman Select, returned to the Cleveland Clinic-Neurology, went back to Boardman Select, was off to Briarfield Manor, back to St. Elizabeth’s in Boardman with his last stop Briarfield Manor, from where he was released this past weekend.
      Doctors had the hardest time pinpointing and diagnosing his health problem.
      “God Bless the doctors who cared for my husband because they never gave up hope,” Mary Ann stated.
      During his first stay at Briarfield Manor in November, Bill’s temperature spiked to 104 degrees with Dr. Jim Demidovich stating Bill needed to get to the hospital. He was then packed in ice and sent to St. Elizabeth’s in Boardman where his family doctor, Dr. David Rich, told Mary Ann that they couldn’t get him regulated.
      “Another doctor then informed me that he had a rash on his neck. Bill called me Thanksgiving morning, everyone in the family was there and he said I’ll bet you never thought I’d be calling you. I cried. He then went crazy, asking me what I was doing to him. They sedated him, sent him to the Cleveland Clinic ICU and after they took him in, doctors told me that he had a very complicated case.”
      The Cleveland Clinic did an MRI, had him tied down and for almost four weeks he was in an induced coma.
      When doctors felt that his bladder cancer spread to his lungs and was Stage 4, Mary Ann’s heart and those of her three daughter’s – Shannon, Bridget and Meghan – just sunk.
      A PET scan confirmed no cancer so new life was breathed by all family members.
      “They then told me that they were going to call the head infectious disease doctor, Dr. Patricia Bartley,” Mary Ann noted. “That’s when things began to unfold. After multiple tests, they went with mycobacterium M bovis and began treating him with a tuberculosis drug. It’s not an antibiotic where you are alright in two or three days. Instead, it takes months.
      “To make a long story short, in January, Dr. Bartley wanted to do a brain biopsy as Bill had hundreds of dandruff-like specs in his brain, bacteria that made it look like a snow globe.
      “She needed to know if it was mycobacterium M bovis, lymphoma or auto-immune disease, noting she couldn’t treat one without knowing about the others. The doctors noted they had never done a biopsy so small on a lesion and after mall the other tests proved negative, Dr. Bartley called me, noting it was, in fact, mycobacterium M bovis and said she can treat this.”
      While Bill made strides, his support team would soon receive the devastating news that the coronavirus (COVID-19) was shutting everything down.
      While no family member could see Bill, the upside was that his physical therapist just happened to be his son-in-law, Mike Draia, who kept Mary Ann and the family posted daily and on top of the situation.
      Fast forward to this past week when Bill was cleared to return home after 241 days away from his own bed.
      “Dr. Bartley told me that Bill was one of just five recorded cases in the world and the only case recorded in the United States. He’s a Cleveland Clinic case study,” Mary Ann said. “Dr. Bartley told me that by next year, you’ll have him totally back.”
      To celebrate Bill’s arrival home, a drive-by parade on Saturday at 11:30 a.m., led by a fire truck, four U.S. Postal Service trucks – he spent 38 years with the USPS, retiring in October of 2016 – and over 100 cars boasting family and friends showed their appreciation for the courageous fight he has put forth. Signs and cards welcomed him back home.
      “It has been a rough eight months for our family,” daughter Meghan added. “His return home on Saturday was emotional but exciting for everyone. He’s been there for everyone over the years, now it was time for everyone to be there for him.”
      Daughter Bridget called the ordeal a challenge for everyone.
      “Obviously, we are happy that dad is finally home but the last eight months have felt much longer that that,” she stated. “The up’s and down’s have been challenging in that he’d take one step forward and two steps back.
      “My father is such a strong family man so to have him home is such a complete blessing. It was very emotional on Saturday but so much fun.”
      Reese had plenty to say about the doctors’ efforts and the places that took care of his brother-in-law.
      “Dr. Patricia Bartley and her staff at the Cleveland Clinic wouldn’t give up on Bill until they got it right,” he noted. “The chance of a Boardman guy to have one of the five documented cases of mycobacterium M bovis worldwide is unbelievable. The treatment continues but it is so great to see the Cleveland Clinic in action and what they have at their fingertips.
      “Being in health care, Diane and I have never witnessed anything like this. Communication from the clinic on down was tremendous while our staff at Briarfield, Dr. Jim Demidovich and the staff at Boardman Select were equally as great. I was proud of the care that he received locally.”
      Like her sisters, daughter Shannon was emotional on her father’s arrival home.
      “It is so great to have our dad back home, it almost feels like a dream,” she said. “There were times we weren’t sure he’d make it home or exactly what his best-case scenario. Our dad is the kindest man and we had so many people praying for his recovery and return home.
      “Our kids really missed ‘Papa Bill,’ who up until his fall in October was still doing a lot of school drop offs and pick-ups for us. For him to be back at home and in his recliner, it feels surreal but we are so happy for him to be back
      “We are looking forward to his continued recovery and the day he is strong enough to once again dance around to the Ohio State University fight song.”
     
  ‘Drive-In’ Fireworks Display On Tap At Canfield Fairgrounds Sat., July 4  
  June 25, 2020 Edition  
     When the Canfield Fair Board of Directors learned that the organization that typically hosts the popular Fourth of July Fireworks would not be able to do so this year due to COVID-19 restrictions, the Fair Board sprang into action to make sure that the community would not be without fireworks.
      The board has worked with several sponsors to schedule a fireworks display at the fairgrounds on the evening of Saturday, July 4 at 8:00 p.m.
      Canfield Fair Board President Ward Campbell said “Our community has experienced a few tough months so the board and I wanted to do everything we could to continue the tradition of Fourth of July fireworks at the fairgrounds.” The Canfield Fair/Mahoning County Agricultural Society is organizing the event but it is being underwritten with support by Cornerstone Electric, HD Davis CPAs, ‘Joe’ Dickey Electric, Less Contracting Inc., Horst Meat Packing and Bruno Miletta. The show is produced by Pyrotechnico, of New Castle, Pa. Cost will be $10 per car and details regarding entry times and gates will be announced. Contact the Fair office at 330-533-4107 for additional details.
      July 10-12 will see the popular Fair Food Extravaganza return with a new round of concessionaires for the drive-thru style event. Details on the food vendors and their menus will be announced in early July.
      “We saw over 3500 cars come through the gates during the last extravaganza so the demand is certainly there. It’s the least we can do, not only for the public, but for our concessionaires who have been deeply affected by the cancellations of many fairs and festivals this summer” said George Roman III, director in charge of concessions and entertainment. The event will run from 11:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. all three days.
      “During both the Fireworks Show and the Fair Food Extravaganza, it is recommended that everyone follow best practices for social distancing and proper hygiene to help keep the community safe,” Campbell said.
     
  15 Students Honored With Edward J. DeBartolo Sr. Memorial Scholarships  
  June 25, 2020 Edition  
     The DeBartolo Scholarship Foundation announced 15 recipients of $10,000 college scholarships during a luncheon event held Fri., June 19 at Stambaugh Auditorium in Youngstown.
      The DeBartolo Scholarship Foundation was established 23 years ago by Edward J. DeBartolo and has awarded more than $1.4 million in scholarships during that span.
      This year more than 300 scholarship applications were received by the foundation, which bases the awards on academic achievement, community involvement and financial need.
      The Class of 2020 recipients of the Edward J. DeBartolo Memorial Scholarships include:
       •Brooke Briggs, Beaver Local High School, who plans to attend Wheeling University, to study business marketing;
       •Nicholas Clementi, Warren G. Harding High School, who will attend Kent State University to study communications;
       •Emily Hasson, Beaver Local High School; who will attend the University of Akron to study business and financial planning;
       •Julia Hum, Columbiana High School; who will attend Youngstown State University, to study nursing;
       •Kayla Johnson, Brookfield High School, who will attend the University of Pittsburgh to study neuroscience;
       •Dalton Keeley, Southington Chalker High School, who will attend either YSU or Kent State University to study education;
       •Gavin Leek, West Branch High School, who will attend Kent State University, to study mechatronics;
       •Isabella Minotti, Girard High School, who will attend YSU to study nursing;
       •Gina Mondora, Cardinal Mooney High School;, who will attend YSU to study nursing;
       •Johnathan Morris, Struthers High School, who will attend either Lawrence University or Carnegie Mellon to study linguistics;
       •Sophia Neddy, Canfield High School, who will attend either Ohio State University or the sity of Pittsburgh, to study public health;
       •Samantha Plocher, West Branch High School;, who will attend Mississippi State, to study poultry science/pre-vet medicine;
       •Adeline Schweers, Poland High School, who will attend Cleveland State University to study social work;
       •Alexa Senvisky, Ursuline High School, who will attend either YSU or Kent State to study veterinary science;
       •Elizabeth Vennetti, Cardinal Mooney High School, who will attend either the University of Pittsburgh or The Ohio State University to study pre-medicine.
  Boardman Local Schools A 20 Year Comparison  
  June 25, 2020 Edition  
     BOARDMAN LOCAL SCHOOLS
      1999: Total students....................................4,957
      1999: Total certified staff.........................................311
      1999: Total non-certified staff.........................................259
      1999: Total General Fund Revenues.................$30.59 million
     
      2019: Total students....................................4,044
      2019: Total certified staff.........................................336
      2019: Total non-certified staff.........................................262
      2019: Total General Fund revenues..................$48.15 million
      SOURCES: Ohio Auditor of State, Cupp Report, Boardman Local Schools
  Coaches Proudly Remember Their Dads On Father’s Day  
  June 18, 2020 Edition  
     BY GREG GULAS
      Boardman News Sports
      bnews@zoominternet.net
      The Boardman Spartans and Cardinal Mooney Cardinals each have storied athletic histories.
      Both schools have hired coaches who are passionate about the sports they oversee, care undyingly about their players and programs while remaining excellent motivators and teachers of the game as they impart life’s lessons that their players can use when they have families of their own.
      In turn, those student-athletes show their appreciation by staying in contact with their mentors long after graduation.
      With Father’s Day coming up on June 21, coaches at both schools agree that their father’s have had a tremendous impact on their growth and development, often sharing lessons that they learned from their dads with their sons and daughters as a parent today.
      BHS boys head basketball coach Pat Birch guided his Spartans’ hoops squad to a 22-2 overall mark this past season. They went 20-4 in 2018-19 and are 42-6 over the past two seasons and unbeaten, 18-0, over the last two seasons with two consecutive All-American Conference Red Tier titles during that span.
      His father, Paul “Rick” Birch, is the operations manager for K-Mart Distribution Center.
      At age 64, he never misses a game and his son is arguably his father’s biggest fan.
      “Sports have always tied me and my dad together. My love for competition and passion for sports comes from him,” Birch said. “He is a diehard Cleveland and Ohio State University fan who always had me with him watching and learning. From a very young age I remember attending sporting events together, especially Ohio State football games.
      “Those memories will stay with me forever. Even better than attending games with my dad was him teaching me different sports in the backyard and coaching my various teams while growing up. I learned early on that you must compete hard but compete the right way.
      “There is etiquette with sports that should always be followed. You should work and compete as hard as you can but always be respectful of your teammates, opponents and especially your coaches. I’ll never forget when my dad ‘benched’ me during a YMCA basketball game.
      “I was pouting about playing time and when he told me something, I simply didn’t want to hear it. I talked back, which resulted in me having to go sit by my mom in the stands. It was a teaching moment that I will never forget.”
      There were other teaching moments that Birch’s father taught him, lessons that he still uses today.
      “Another important moment for me came while I was in elementary school,” he added. “I wanted to be a ball boy for the varsity basketball team but wanted my dad to ask the coach on my behalf. Instead, he made me approach the varsity basketball coach, shake his hand and ask him myself. It’s a lesson I find invaluable today.
      “Outside of the passion and respect for sports, my dad taught me that there is a right and wrong way to do things. You may not always get it right at first but your intention should be to try and do the right thing, that you should always carry yourself properly, that you should always look people in the eye and respect what they have to say.
      “I think more than anything else, I have tried to carry those lessons with me as a coach. I don’t always get it right but I always have the right intentions, especially when it comes to working with student-athletes. Part of my coaching philosophy has been to ‘do the right thing by kids and people and things will work themselves out,’ a philosophy that was shaped by my father.
      “As a father of two, I am now trying to instill the same passion, respect and approach to sports with my children. It has only been in the last few years, as my son has started organized sports, that I truly appreciate everything my dad did for me.”
      Spartans’ head football coach Joe Ignazio is a tireless worker, has his BHS football program pointed in the right direction and calls his father, Joe, Sr., who is 69, his hero.
      “My dad is my hero. I am fortunate enough to have him stand on the sidelines when I coach,” Ignazio stated. “I always say that everything I do is to present a great role model for my own children, but also to let my parents know that I am doing right by them. I have always wanted to make them proud.
      “When I think of my dad, I always think of him as a family man. He is a grinder who has always provided for his family. He went from being a Boardman fireman to a self-employed insurance salesman. He has an unbelievable sense of humor, is someone that has been very involved in the community and believes in service above self.
      “We have always shared a love for sports and still play golf and bocce together. I am 45 years-old and without hesitation, I still walk over to him and the first I do is give him a kiss. I feel very blessed to have that type of relationship with my dad. Happy Father’s Day to him and the rest of the dads out there.”
      Cardinals’ head football coach, P.J. Fecko, and several members of his staff shared their thoughts on their fathers and why they were so influential in their upbringing.
      “I am very blessed to have the father I have. He has and continues to be a big part of my life every single day,” Fecko said of his father, Pat, who is a retired lumberyard owner. “My father has taught me so much over the years, both verbally and by example. He’s been a huge support during my athletic and coaching careers.
      “He never missed a game while I was growing up and never missed a game while I was an assistant coach. He has never missed a game for the past 20 years while I have been the head coach, either. My father has been nothing but supportive and engaged in everything that I’ve done so to him I say, Happy Father’s Day, Pat.”
      Fecko’s offensive line coach, Mike Latessa, said his father, Joseph Latessa, Jr., a musician by trade who goes by ‘Little Joe’ when performing, helped mold his athletic career.
      “My love for the game of football came from my father. He is a huge fan and played the game in both high school and college,” Latessa added. “He passed his knowledge and passion for the game on to me as a child and eventually, as a player and coach. Every time I left the house on game day, he would play the fight song on the piano as I walked out the door. Now that he’s 83, I take every chance I get to hear him play those fight songs.”
      Another Fecko assistant, Greg Giannios, has seen the Boardman-Cardinal Mooney rivalry from both sides of the field.
      “My father, also Greg, was a 1971 graduate of Boardman High School where he excelled in sports, especially football,” said Giannios of his dad, who is the owner of Giannios Candy Company in Boardman. “One day when I was little, my grandma showed me his scrapbook and ever since that day I always wanted to play football and be just like my father.
      “My dad has always been there for me. From Little League, where he is an umpire who was selected to work the Little League World Series in 1998, all the way through high school and then when I played at YSU, he traveled to every game. Now that I am a coach, he still goes to games and we always give each other the thumbs up, which started ever since I was little kid.
      “Now that I have a son of my own, I hope that I can be the father to him like my father has been to me. I hope my son will look up to me as I did of my dad so Happy Father’s Day, Dad. I love you.”
      CMHS linebacker coach, Jim McGlone, called his late father, Joseph (1929-2002), who was the national sales manager for Plakie Toys, his hero.
      “The one word that comes to mind in describing my dad is hero,” McGlone noted. “The father of seven, he had few passions, his faith, his family, the Cleveland Browns and Cardinal Mooney High School. It wasn’t until a particularly tough double session my senior year that I found out Pops played semi-pro football
      “He was a humble, quiet man who is missed daily by so many.”
      Cardinal Mooney Cardinals’ boys’ basketball coach, Carey Palermo, had the opportunity as a youngster to watch his father, Joe – who is 73, a U.S. Army veteran and retired from the City of Youngstown where he served as chief enforcement officer of its building department – play fast-pitch and slo-pitch softball while learning from his father the finer points of life and sports.
      “My father always pushed me to be the best I could be,” Palermo noted. “He never allowed me to make excuses or place blame for failure on somebody or something else and I appreciate that lesson today more than ever. He is my biggest critic but also my biggest fan and supporter.
      “I would not want it any other way. He has a way with words, like no other and I appreciate all that he and my mom have done for me over the years.”
      Joe Gabriel serves as Boardman High’s head baseball coach, stating his father, Joe, Jr., always did his best to make things better for his family.
      “My father is a retired police officer and growing up, he worked a ton and worked nights. He did a lot of side jobs as a cop to keep money coming in,” Gabriel said. “My father has always been there for me and showed me exactly how to love a son.
      “He always made me feel comfortable to tell him anything, even if I knew he would not agree with something I did or a choice that I made. When I went away to college, he would always make trips up to school and take me to dinner and the bookstore for some clothes.
      “As a police officer, he introduced me to the ‘real world’ at an early age. That introduction at such an early age has truly helped me as I have gone through life and it helps me more and more every single day. My father has always been there for me my entire life, through good and bad and still is.”
      Cardinals head girls’ basketball coach, Jason Baker, credits his father, Wayne, 65, a painter by trade, for instilling in him a love of sports.
      “I loved sports from a very young age and my father helped me see exactly how important sports can be,” he noted. “I can remember my dad picking me up at lunch from school, then going to Cleveland to watch an Indians afternoon baseball game.
      “My dad would always have a catch with me. As I got older and became a first baseman, I would wait for him to come home and beg him to throw balls to me in the dirt, as hard as he could so that I could scoop them up.
      “Growing up near Columbus, Ohio State Buckeyes football games were extremely important to our families and that is something that still exists today. Without the exposure to sports as a young kid, I would not have been interested in athletics in high school or college and wouldn’t be coaching today.”
      BHS head boys’ soccer coach, Eric Simione, guided his Spartans team to a 10-7-1 overall mark last season, posting back-to-back 10-win campaigns for the first time in 21 years.
      His father, Joe, 71, served in the U.S. Navy (1966-70) as an electrician on a troop transport ship during the Vietnam War and later worked 38 years for Ohio Bell-Ameritech.
      “Without going into too much detail, my father had what we would consider a hard childhood. He was the oldest of five children and lost his father about a week before his 11th birthday,” Simione added. “From there, let’s just say things got worse but, in retrospect, I think that life experience is what shaped his views on family and why he worked so hard to provide the best opportunities for me as well as my brother and two sisters.
      “Certainly, he was involved in many of our activities but always in an appropriate manner. Even when he coached us in soccer, he would never treat us differently than the rest of the team and while he coached each of us, he let others do it as well. Today, I feel that was a lesson I didn’t realize I was being taught at the time. Fathers coaching their sons can be a great bonding experience but you probably shouldn’t be the only coach your son ever has. Being afforded the opportunity to receive other perspectives and styles is important.
      “My father still comes to almost every game and his advice is the only one I take without a grain of salt because he’s the only one giving it who doesn’t have an agenda . I think my brother and sisters would agree that no story about my father is complete without music.,
      “He named each of us after singers – for the record, I am named after Eric Burdon and not Eric Clapton – and throughout our childhood introduced us to all the great stuff, playing songs and telling stories then randomly quizzing us afterwards.
      “Of course, the most important lesson was knowing to never touch his records. I could have robbed a bank and led the police on a high-speed chase across three states and gotten in less trouble than if I had touched my dad’s records.”
      From the Boardman News staff to all fathers in our reading audience, a very “Happy Father’s Day” to everyone with many, many more yet to come.
     
  Boardman Police Sgt. Glenn Patton Honored As Crisis Intervention Officer Of The Year  
  June 18, 2020 Edition  
Sgt Glenn Patton
     The Mahoning County Mental Health and Recovery Board has announced that Boardman Township Police Department Sergeant Glenn Patton has been selected as the 2020 Crisis Intervention Team (CIT) officer of the year. Sgt. Patton was recently recognized at the Mahoning County Commissioners meeting for receiving the award, and will be formally honored this fall at the Mahoning County Mental Health & Recovery Board’s annual awards luncheon.
      Sergeant Patton’s career with the Boardman Police Department began in Jan., 1997 when he was hired as a dispatcher. In May, 1999, he was hired as a Boardman police officer.
      Prior to beginning his law enforcement career at Boardman, he graduated with a bachelor’s degree in Criminal Justice from Youngstown State University in 1997, and completed the Akron Police Academy in 1998.
      In February 2018, he was promoted to the rank of sergeant and currently supervises Boardman’s Traffic Unit.
      Sgt. Patton has extensive training in several areas of law enforcement and is assigned additional duties to include arson investigator and crisis negotiator for the department.
      Sergeant Patton graduated from Mahoning County’s Crisis Intervention Team (CIT) training in November, 2012. He is routinely called upon by the department to handle the most sensitive matters, and has extensive contacts with area agencies that he readily uses to help people throughout the community.
      Among commendations he has received during his career are in 2014 when he was honored by the Mahoning Valley Chiefs of Police Association for investigative excellence, and in 2015 when he was named Investigator of the Year by the Ohio Auto Theft Investigators Association. He has also been recognized by the Ohio Organized Crime Commission for investigative excellence.
      Sgt. Patton is active in the Boy Scouts of America as a merit badge counselor and he is also a committee member Troop 60.
      Police officers are frequently called upon to respond to crisis situations, many times involving persons with serious mental illness. Historically officers who respond to these calls often lack any specialized training or knowledge in dealing with the mentally ill and their families. In 1988, The Crisis Intervention Team (CIT) model emerged in Memphis, Tennessee and is often referred to as the “Memphis Model.” The CIT Program seeks to bridge this gap between police response and mental health care by forming a partnership with behavioral health and human services professionals, consumers, their families and law enforcement. The alliance was the catalyst in developing and implementing a safer, proactive method for resolving explosive crisis situations.
      Sgt. Patton and his wife, Tina, are the parents of three children, Aaron, Brianna and Devin, who are all graduates of Boardman High School.
  YWCA Names New Board Chair, Elected Board Members And Gives Special Recognition At 115th Annual Meeting  
  June 18, 2020 Edition  
     Cryshanna A. Jackson, Ph.D., was elected Chair of the YWCA/Mahoning Valley Board of Directors at the agency’s 115th annual meeting. Dr. Jackson is associate professor, Department of Politics and International Relations at Youngstown State University.
      Other officers elected to the board are Elected office holders are Kristin L. Olmi, first vice chair; Sara Daugherty, second vice chair; Chris Gabrick, treasurer; Joy Tang, secretary; and Cheryl McArthur, past chair.
      Newly-elected members named to the YWCA Board of Directors for a three-year term beginning June 2020 are Sandra Kellar, property manager, Youngstown Metropolitan Housing Authority; Susan M. Moorer, development officer, WYSU 88.5 FM, Youngstown State University; Stacy Joy Quiñones, foundation services associate, Youngstown State University Foundation; Stacey R. Schneider, associate professor of pharmacy practice, Northeast Ohio Medical University; and Alexis Smith, co-medical director/radiologist, Joanie Abdu Comprehensive Breast Care Center.
      Board members re-elected to a second, three-year term inclue Chris Gabrick, principal at Schroedel, Scullin & Bestic LLC; Christine A. Gerst, vice president/financial advisor, Merrill Lynch Wealth Management; Tang , assistant professor, Department of Psychology, Youngstown State University; and Rhonda Warren, retired, financial verifier, Mercy Health.
      Other board members include Jasmine Bailey, Barbara Brothers, Elizabeth A. Ford, Tanay Hill, Deborah S. Liptak, Dawn Ochman, Melissa Rucci, Jenna Santisi and Olympia C. Scott-Feagins.
      Elected to the 2020-2021 Board Governance Committee are Cheryl McArthur, Sara Daugherty, Joy Tang, Barbara Brothers and Rhonda Warren.
      Kristin L. Olmi received the YWCA Outstanding Board Member of the Year Award; Elizabeth A. Ford received the YWCA Outstanding Volunteer of the Year Award; Jeremy Hinzman received the Outstanding Employee of the Year Award; and Ashley Hudzik received the Exceptional Employee Award.
  COVID-19 Has Severe Impact On Budget At Boardman Park  
  June 11, 2020 Edition  
     Boardman Park’s indoor rooms and open-air pavilions have been closed since mid-March due to COVID-19. Fees generated from renting these facilities represents approximately 1 per cent, or $220,000, of the park’s annual income. In addition, several of the park’s annual recreational programs have also been cancelled, (for example the Adventure Day Camp)
      Program fees represent approximately 10 per cent, or about $140,000 of the park’s income. Currently, these internal revenue streams are not generating revenue at a sufficient rate in order to meet the budget numbers by the end of the year.
      Rental income for facilities is down by 60 per cent, and program income is down by 75 per cent, resulting in approximately $200,000 of lost income, that is about 15 per cent of its annual income. This will severely impact the park’s budget. Even though the indoor rooms and open-air pavilions reopened on June 8, the lost income cannot be recovered.
      “Income generated by these internal revenue streams play an important role in stabilizing the park’s annual budget, with the understanding that Boardman Park is in its 72nd year of operating on the equivalent of a 1 mill tax levy,” Executive Director Daniel Slagle said.
      Boardman Park’s first tax levy was a 1 mill levy that was approved in 1948, and today, 72 years later the park’s budget is primarily funded by two voted levies---a three-tenths mill and sixth-tenths mill and one (1) inside millage levy of one-tenth mill. Annually, these levies generate approximately $871,000 and account for approximately 65 per cent of the park district’s annual income.
      “Unfortunately, these internal revenue streams are collapsing,” Slagle said.
      Boardman Park’s budget has been further challenged by:
       •1) A dramatic increase in attendance, which has resulted in a 40% increase in operating cost since 2009;
       •2) Reductions in local government funding from the state; specifically, the park has lost $185,000 or about 14 per cent of its budget since 2009, and due to COVID-19 the state is going to further reduce local government funding; and •3) The park’s budget has not kept up with the rate of inflation, because there is no inflation factor built-in real property tax levies.
      “Over the years, in an effort to operate within its budget, Boardman Park has implemented cost reductions, (e.g. reducing employee cost by replacing full-time positions with part-time posts, along with reducing total staff through attrition; eliminating capital improvement projects; and foregoing major repair and maintenance projects,” Slagle said.
      In order to meet the recent challenges as a result of COVID-19, Boardman Park will not fill two recently vacated full-time staff positions, and it will not provide overtime pay or purchase supplies and materials that are absolutely critical to the basic operations of the park.
      Boardman Park will also implement policies to reduce utility cost, in addition to eliminating some programs and events, as well as reducing turf mowing frequency and other landscape maintenance procedures (like annual flower plantings, weed control).
      “It is important to emphasize that Boardman Park is the only park in Ohio that has been operating on the same tax millage rate for the past 72 years. According to the Ohio Parks and Recreation Association (OPRA), which has over 2,000 members, the OPRA “is not aware of any other park or park district in Ohio that has been operating at the same tax millage rate for 72 years.”
      Moreover, the Mahoning County Auditor has provided information regarding the allocation of the tax dollars paid in Boardman Township that reflects that Boardman Park receives just one per cent (1-cents) of each tax dollar paid in Boardman.
      “In other words, just a small piece of the pie keeps the Green Oasis green,” Slagle said.
      He added, “We believe that the park plays a vital role in keeping Boardman ‘A Nice Place to Call Home.’ Please be assured that the Board of Park Commissioners and its staff are committed to preserving and protecting the Green Oasis and the many benefits it provides to our community. We will continue to work diligently to meet the recreational needs of our community and create wholesome opportunities to live and interact with family, friends, and neighbors while serving as prudent stewards of the tax dollars entrusted to the park.”
     
  Farm Bill In Ohio Legislature Would Reduce Funding For Water District  
  June 11, 2020 Edition  
     “The proposed language HB 665 is unfair and overly broad, with far-reaching impacts beyond the intended goal of the Canfield Fair.”
     
      BY JOHN A. DARNELL JR.
      associate editor
      A farm bill currently in the Ohio Legislature, has drawn “profound concerns” from the ABC Storm Water District because, if approved, it will exempt the district from an estimated $17,000 in utility fees.
      Boardman Township Administrator Jason Loree testified a week ago before the Ohio House Agriculture and Rural Development Committee about the proposal saying “it is patently unfair to...residents of Boardman and Canfield Townships to enact a law to exempt one of the single largest...properties in those townships for no reason other than its owner is an agricultural society.”
      Loree told members of the committee that all parcels of land in the ABC District, that stormwater runoffs from the Canfield Fairgrounds drain to local waterways from a surface area of more than two million square feet.
      “The proposed language HB 665 is unfair and overly broad, with far-reaching impacts beyond the intended goal of the Canfield Fair. The change would prevent collection of the fairground’s fair share of the costs of stormwater management and shift the responsibility onto other property owners within the district,” Loree said.
      ABC stormwater fees are monthly utility service fees collected along with property taxes to address significant and persistent flooding problems in Boardman and Canfield Townships and address federal stormwater mandates.
      “We currently have projects going out to bid that have engineering estimates combining to be over $1.4 million. The stormwater district has also authorized over $100,000 in planning for two watersheds within our service area. This includes Indian Run that starts in Canfield Township and encompasses the fairgrounds, crosses and contributes to flooding of State Route 11, and discharges into Boardman Township,” Loree said.
      HB 665 would prohibit a regional water and sewer district from charging water or sewer assessments or other charges against county agricultural society property that is exempt from real property taxation.
      Under continuing law, a regional water and sewer district may charge assessments or other amounts against property within the district that is deemed to benefit from the district’s projects. Property that is exempt from real property taxation can be, but is not necessarily, exempt from such assessments.
      “While it is well understood and accepted that undeveloped properties in agricultural districts are exempt from water and sewer assessments, it is illogical and unfair to exempt developed properties that benefit from such utility charges simply because they happen to be owned by an agricultural society,” Loree told the House committee.
     
  “Our Response Time Is Excellent”  
  Lanes Life Trans CEO Tells Trustees:   May 28, 2020 Edition  
     BY JOHN A. DARNELL JR.
      associate editor
      Boardman Trustees heard what Joe Lane, head of Lane’s Life Trans, described as his “State of the Union with Boardman” address at their May 20 meeting, staged via telephone conference due to the coronavirus pandemic.
      “We’ve been able to cover all 9-1-1 calls,” Lane told Trustees. Those calls include almost all of the COVID-19 calls, as Boardman Fire Department EMS have shunned such calls during the pandemic.
      Lane was invited to address Trustees in light of Boardman Fire Chief Mark Pitzer’s oft-made comments suggesting the ambulance company takes too long to answer calls.
      For example, in his April, monthly report to Township Trustees, Pitzer noted that Lanes failed to meet the requirements of its memorandum of understanding with the township, responding to 82 per cent of its ‘first calls’ in under six minutes.
      “I have concerns with these numbers,” Pitzer said.
      Lane told township officials that “working with the Boardman Fire Department and Trustees could have a positive impact.”
      He suggested a public-private partnership that could improve dispatching, as well as the initial response and depth of response to calls given to the ambulance company.
      “Dispatching is an important component,” Lane said, noting that “Not every call is at the same level of emergency...Some calls may not need all the lights and sirens.”
      Lane said his company’s initial response time is “excellent,” and added in some instances all of Lane’s fleet of 12 vehicles are in use and “There may be some times when we need assistance.”
      He suggested a variety of potential partnerships, including with Southern Park Mall and Boardman Township.
      Lane said his crews have responded to 1,778 calls in Boardman this year with an average response time of 5.3 minutes, and said his company is no longer providing patient transfer service to Mercy Health, “so this could free up some vehicles and take stress off the system...and could allow for faster response times.”
  Trustees Seek Cutbacks To Minimize Impact Of State Funding Reductions  
  May 28, 2020 Edition  
     Preparing for possible reductions in state funding due to the coronavirus pandemic, Boardman Township Trustees have asked their department head to reduce their annual budgets by 10 per cent in an effort to save upwards of $1 million.
      “Boardman Township operates on a tight budget and we want to minimize the impact of cuts in funding,” Trustee Larry Moliterno said.
      Trustee Tom Costello said there will be a hiring freeze, as well as non-replacement of personnel and equipment needs.
      He suggested that due to the pandemic, state gas tax revenues will decrease and that could impact the annual road resurfacing program.
      Another impact of cutbacks in state funding could come from reductions in the capital grant program, and the Ohio Public Works program.
      Working with the late State Rep. Don Manning, the Boardman Township had hoped to receive a $1.25 million capital grant this year. Funds from that grant would go towards the creation of a passive park at Market St. Elementary School, and could include funding to raze the now-vacant school building.
      In other matters, meeting last week, Trustees declared several properties of nuisance sites. They included 321 West Midlothian Blvd., 5902 Market St. and 7693 East Parkside Dr.
      Trustees accepted a low bid of $112,057 from R.T. Vernal for Phase 2 of a drainage mitigation project on West Huntington Dr. Work on the project should be completed by the end of June. Work on Phase 2 includes piping, catch basins, road and curb repair.
      Administrator Jason Loree told Trustees there are five projects in the works for the ABC Water District, including pipe replacement projects on Homestead Dr., Glenridge Dr., Buchanan Dr. and Spring Park Dr., as well as a study of Cranberry Run.
  Alone At Boardman Cemetery, Mark Luke Kept Tradition Alive With Memorial Day Address  
  May 28, 2020 Edition  
Mark Luke
     For the first time in 116 years, there was no Memorial Day Parade in Boardman Township. This year’s annual parade, as well as observance in Boardman Park, was cancelled due to the COVID-19 pandemic.
      Instead, traffic flowed along Market St. to Rt. 224, and cars sped down the roadway, passed Boardman Park, whose entrance is graced by Olde St. James Church, one of the oldest Episcopalian church buildings east of the Mississippi River, dating back to the early 1820’s.
      In Memorial Day’s of the past, that parade time and moments in Boardman Park, were times for fellowship, now regulated by mandates of social distancing.
      Until the time that Boardman Park was developed in the late 1940’s, Boardman’s annual Memorial Day parade began at what is now Center Intermediate School and ended at Boardman Cemetery, where ice cream and fellowship was the feature of the day.
      Longtime Master of Ceremonies for the annual Memorial Day observances, Mark Luke, president of the Boardman Kiwanis Club, wasn’t about to let Boardman Township’s longtime Memorial Day traditions be completely squaffled by the pandemic.
      Promptly at 10:00 a.m., he stood alone in Boardman Cemetery where the township’s 116th annual Memorial Day address was delivered via a conference call. His address was followed by a ‘properly distanced’ call for remembrance by Boardman Local Schools band and music teacher Tim Tuite.
      He spearheaded an outdoor community wide performance in honor of Memorial Day--the likes of which have never happened before-- one instrument at a time.
      He’s gathered his troops...About a thousand Boardman band students from fifth to 12th grade, and asked them to go to their porch, their driveway, or their deck at noon on Memorial Day, May 25 and play taps. Then, he extended the idea to Boardman’s choral music department, and now hundreds of Spartan singers intend to follow taps by singing the National Anthem from their front yards.
      Tuite has pushed the idea through social media, to reach out to other valley band directors and music teachers, as well as music directors across the nation.
      The text of Mark Luke’s Memorial Day address follows:
      I stand here today at Boardman Cemetery, the sight of the first Boardman Decoration Day Ceremony, held on May 30, 1904.
      I ask you now to please stand if you are able, face an American Flag, and join me in the Pledge of Allegiance...
      “I pledge allegiance to the Flag of the United States of America, and to the Republic for which it stands, one Nation under God, indivisible, with liberty and justice for all”.
      We will now read an Invocation written by our friend, Lauren Johnson. Lauren is the daughter of Rev. Larry and Beverly Johnson. Larry was a longtime Pastor, the Boardman Police Department Chaplain, and a Vietnam veteran. Since her father’s passing in 2016 and in her father’s memory, Lauren accepted the call to continue writing the weekly Boardman News column started by her father, entitled Open Your Bible.
      Let us bow our heads in Prayer…
      Lord God, we come before You on this Memorial Day to thank You for Your mercy, to praise You for Your unending love and to humble ourselves before Your throne. Your Word says in 2 Chronicles 7:14, “If My people, who are called by My Name, will humble themselves and pray and seek My face and turn from their wicked ways, then I will hear from heaven, and I will forgive their sin and will heal their land.” Our prayer today is that we would humble ourselves and turn from our wicked ways and that You would heal our land. During times like these, we need to focus on You and trust that You will heal our land and continue to bless this land as You always have. We remember and thank those that gave their lives for this nation. They have paid the ultimate sacrifice and in sincere gratitude, we remember those lives lost and the price that has been paid for this nation’s freedom. May we never take for granted another day, another hour, another minute. We continue to pray for those currently serving and may You continue to bless this nation now and forever.
      In Your Holy Name we pray, Amen.
     
      Memorial Day was originally called Decoration Day, and is a day of mourning and remembrance for those who have died in our Nation’s service.
      On May 5, 1868, three years after the United States Civil War had ended, General John A. Logan, Commander-in-Chief of the Grand Army of the Republic issued General Order 11 - establishing May 30th as “Decoration Day” – a day for the nation to decorate the graves of the war dead with flowers. It is believed the date was chosen, because flowers would be in bloom all over the country. The first large observance was held that year at Arlington National Cemetery when flowers were placed on the graves of Union and Confederate soldiers. The concept was endorsed by the United States Congress in 1871.
      Gen. Logan’s order for his posts to decorate graves in 1868 urged: “We should guard their graves with sacred vigilance. ... Let pleasant paths invite the coming and going of reverent visitors, and fond mourners. Let no neglect, no ravages of time, testify to the present or to the coming generations that we have forgotten, as a people, the cost of a free and undivided republic.”
      Local springtime tributes to the Civil War dead already had been held in various places. One of the first occurred in Columbus, Miss., April 25, 1866, when a group of women visited a cemetery to decorate the graves of Confederate soldiers, who had fallen in battle at Shiloh. Nearby were the graves of Union soldiers, neglected, because they were the enemy. Disturbed at the sight of the bare graves, the women placed some of their flowers on those graves, as well.
      The establishment of Decoration Day has a direct connection to the Mahoning Valley. General Logan’s only son, John A. Logan, Jr., met a Youngstown woman named Edith Andrews – of the prominent Youngstown steelmaking family. They married and made their home in Youngstown, living here in the 1890’s. Like his father- John, Jr. was a soldier of distinction – his military service included the Spanish-American War and the Philippine-American War. During that war, Maj. Logan was killed in action on Nov. 11, 1899 at San Jacinto, Philippines and was posthumously awarded the Medal of Honor. He is buried in Youngstown’s Oak Hill Cemetery marked by a white marble headstone with gold engravings - signifying those soldiers awarded America’s highest recognition for valor.
      By the end of the 19th century, Memorial Day ceremonies were being held on May 30th throughout the nation. It was not until after World War I, however, that the day was expanded to honor those who have died in all America’s wars.
      In 1971, Memorial Day was declared a national holiday by an act of Congress, although it is still often called Decoration Day. It was then also placed on the last Monday in May.
      Boardman Township
      Decration Day and Memorial Day History
       •May 30, 1904 first Decoration Day Ceremony, held at Boardman Cemetery.
       •1951 (earliest record found) - Ceremony held at Boardman High School (now Center Intermediate School), then a Parade to Boardman Cemetery and a Prayer Service.
       •As Boardman’s population grew, the parade and Ceremony also grew larger. In the early 1970’s the Ceremony was moved to Boardman Park’s Memorial Flagpole along the main drive. The parade route ended in the park.
       •After construction was completed, the ceremony was moved to Boardman Park’s Maag Outdoor Amphitheater.
      Decoration Day and Memorial Day activities organizers and supporters include: Boardman Ex-Servicemen’s Club, American Legion Posts 593 and 565, Patsy Ann Zabel, the Boardman Memorial Day Association, Boardman Township, Schools and Park; Mark Westerman, Jack Darnell, Claude Vasu, Walter Daub, Dallas Heston, Ann Taylor, Paul Luke, Tom Groth, Dan Slagle, John Darnell, John Finley, Tom Ruggeri, George Grim, George Economus, Bill Becherer, Lt. Col. Bill Moss, Earl Coffin and Stephanie Landers. Veteran Don Medicus was the Parade’s Honorary Colors Bearer for many years.
      Speakers: historically, most speakers were local Clergy. In more recent years veterans have been the speakers.
      Speakers military service: both peacetime and wartime; including – WWI, WWII, Korea, Viet Nam, Desert Storm, War in Afghanistan, Iraqi Freedom.
      In December of 2000, the U.S. Congress passed and the president signed into law “The National Moment of Remembrance Act”, which encourages all Americans to pause wherever they are at 3 p.m. local time on Memorial Day, for a minute of silence, to remember and honor those who have died in service to the nation.
      Throughout our history – a special breed of individual has always stepped forward to protect the sovereignty of our nation, and our way of life. Many of whom gave the ultimate sacrifice – surrendering their lives upon the alter of freedom. To those of you with us listening today who served, or are serving our Nation, and to those who are no longer with us - We, who now live in this greatest country in the world, say – THANK YOU!
      Special thanks to the Boardman Township Maintenance Staff who have prepared Boardman Cemetery into such wonderful condition – and thank you to the residents and taxpayers of Boardman Township for their support of our Community.
      Special thanks to our Boardman Kiwanis Memorial Day Committee: Stephanie Landers, Roy Wright, Earl Coffin and Matt Cramer.
      Normally at this time in our program we enjoy our incomparable Boardman High School Wind Ensemble playing our National Anthem, a moving Memorial Day Speaker, the playing of the Armed Forces Salute - with Veterans gathering around the flagpole, the laying of the Memorial Wreathes, a rifle salute, and the playing of Taps. Then, as the Wind Ensemble plays their rousing rendition John Philip Sousa’s The Stars and Stripes Forever, scout troops lead the attendees in handshake greetings of thankfulness to each Veteran attending.
      Well, our Memorial Day this year is certainly different than previous years. However, no more of a struggle or challenge than any Veteran ever faced to preserve our freedoms to gather in this way this year.
      And to that end, we look forward to the 2021 Memorial Day Breakfast, Parade and Ceremony. And returning to our beautiful Boardman Park. Our speakers from this year have already committed to speak next year... it will be a different format than previous years, as we will have two Boardman families share with us the impact of losing a family member in military service. We look forward to a message from both the Clark and Eisenbraun families.
      Recently, I was contacted by Boardman Schools Assistant Band Director, Mr. Tim Tuite. He has organized Boardman students, and invites all of you to gather outside your homes today at NOON – where you may hear band member students playing Taps... afterward, please join choir members in signing our National Anthem. Sincere thanks to Tim, and all of our student musicians and singers.
      I don’t have a specific speech for today, but I do have two things for you to ponder: One – a question...WHAT ARE YOUR MEMORIAL DAY MEMORIES...? Veterans, Freedoms, Duty, Honor, Courage; learning the meaning of this National Day of Mourning; childhood memories; parades; placing flags on graves at cemeteries; Ceremonies with Veteran or Clergy speakers... our three previous Memorial Day Ceremony speakers: Jim Freeze, Paul Poulas and Christopher Dobozy – all combat Veterans, made special mention by name, of the brothers in arms in their respective units that did not return from combat.
      I challenge you to take time today to reflect upon your Memorial Day memories. And to thank those you have known, and those you have never known, for your memories and Freedoms.
      Second, I will read what has become known as the ‘Bixby letter’. A letter of condolence from President Abraham Lincoln, delivered to Mrs. Lydia Bixby on November 25, 1864:
     
      Executive Mansion,
      Washington, Nov. 21, 1864
     
      Dear Madam,
      I have been shown in the files of the War Department a statement of the Adjutant General of Massachusetts that you are the mother of five sons who have died gloriously on the field of battle.
      I feel how weak and fruitless must be any words of mine which should attempt to beguile you from the grief of a loss so overwhelming. But I cannot refrain from tendering to you the consolation that may be found in the thanks of the Republic they died to save.
      I pray that our Heavenly Father may assuage the anguish of your bereavement, and leave you only the cherished memory of the loved and lost, and the solemn pride that must be yours to have laid so costly a sacrifice upon the altar of Freedom.
      Yours, very sincerely and respectfully,
      A. Lincoln
     
      In closing: the changes in our world today are temporary – THIS Memorial Day tradition continues. Our Nation has faced many crises in its history – from threats both foreign and domestic – we approach them all with the same spirit and vigor – as free, optimistic, resilient, problem solving Americans.
      We owe a debt of thankful vigilance to our Nation’s founders, and our Veteran’s both lost and living to preserve this Constitutional Republic, in which we have been so very privileged and Blessed - to be able to live, gather, speak, defend, and Worship.
      God Bless you all - God Bless America - and let us be thankful, free Americans on Memorial Day.
      Thank you for the opportunity to bring this message to you - We are adjourned.
  Boyd Indicted In Shooting Death Of Weisensee  
  May 21, 2020 Edition  
     19-year-old Emanuel Robert Boyd, of 5515 West Blvd., has been indicted by a Mahoning County Grand Jury on seven counts, including involuntary manslaughter, in the Feb. 13 shooting death of his friend, 18-year-old Kane Joseph Weisensee, at Boyd’s home.
      Boyd has been lodged in the Mahoning County Jail since the shooting.
      Shortly after midnight on Feb. 13, Wiesensee’s girlfriend, Sienna Holstein, told police that Boyd shot Wiesensee.
      “Manny (Emanuel Boyd) had this gun and was playing with it” when it discharged, Holstein told police. She said she believed the shooting was an accident.
      Police believe the gun used in the shooting had been stolen during a burglary at a Lockwood Blvd. home on Feb. 9.
      Boyd’s indictment includes a firearm specification that carries a mandatory three-year conviction.
      Boyd was also indicted on charges of burglary, having weapons under a disability, tampering with evidence, grand theft of a firearm, receiving stolen property and falsification.
      Weisensee died of a single gunshot wound to the chest on Feb. 13, according to police reports.
      At the time of the shooting, Boyd told police he and Weisensee were walking along West Blvd. when someone in a black vehicle pulled along side them and shot Weisensee.
      Ptl. Joseph O’Grady said he could not find footprints, or blood in the snow, that could corroborate Boyd’s claim.
      Officer O’Grady said Holstein told him that she was “sleeping on the couch in the living room and heard a loud bang. She awoke to find Weisensee stumbling in and saying he was shot in the chest.”
      Interviewed by police about two hours after the shooting, Holstein told Det. Greg Stepuk “Kane and I were sitting on the couch. I was sitting on his lap. Manny was sitting on the couch next to use.
      “I was facing Kane, talking to him, I heard a loud noise.
      “I looked over at Manny and saw smoke. Kane started screaming ‘call 9-1-1.’
      “Kane collapsed by the couch.”
  Boardman High School Senior Nick Geraci Earns Scholar Award, Gets YSU Scholarship  
  May 21, 2020 Edition  
Nick Geraci
     The National Society of High School Scholars (NCHSS) has selected Boardman High School senior Nick Geraci, son of Tony and Kerry Geraci, as a member in recognition of his scholarship, leadership and community commitment.
      “I am honored to recognize the hard work, sacrifice and commitment that Nicholas has demonstrated to achieve this exceptional level of academic excellance,” said Claes Nobel, senior member of the family that established the Nobel Prizes.
      “We aim to help students like Nicholas build on their academic success by connecting them with unique learning experiences and resources to help prepare them or college and meaningful careers,” James W. Lewis, NSHSS president said.
      Geraci has been a part of the Boardman Schools Television Network (BSTN) for three years. He started as a camera operator for after school events including the football production crew and worked his way up to a manager and director. He was also selected to work alongside Boardman Local Schools Communication Coordinator, Amy Radinovic, to film civic events.
      Geraci is a 4.0 honor roll student and has maintained that average since elementary school.
      He will start at Youngstown State University (YSU) in the fall semester of 2020 pursuing a Bachelor of Fine Arts (BFA) degree in telecommunications and media arts.
      Geraci is the recipient of the YSU Trustees’ four year $20,000 scholarship.
  116th Annual Boardman Memorial Day Ceremony  
  Via Conference Call:   May 21, 2020 Edition  
     Mark Luke, President of Boardman Kiwanis, will give a Memorial Day message on Monday, May 25 at 10am via Conference Call, honoring those who are serving, have served or who have given the ultiamte sacrifice while in the military service to our country.
      Dial-in Number: 701-802-5232
      Access Code7516354
  116th Annual Boardman Memorial Day Ceremony  
  Via Conference Call:   May 21, 2020 Edition  
     Mark Luke, President of Boardman Kiwanis, will give a Memorial Day message on Monday, May 25 at 10am, honoring those who are serving, have served, or who have given the ultimate sacrifice while in military service to our country.
      Dial-In: 701-802-5232
      Access Code: 7516354
  Gov. DeWine Announces Cutbacks That Take $883,000 From Boardman Local Schools  
  May 14, 2020 Edition  
     Due to the economic impact of COVID-19, Ohio Gov. DeWine announced last week $775 million in reductions to Ohio’s general revenue fund for the remainder of Fiscal Year 2020 that ends on June 30.
      At the end of February and prior to the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic, state revenues for the fiscal year were ahead of estimates by over $200 million. As of the end of April, Ohio’s revenues were below the budgeted estimates by $776.9 million.
      Because Ohio is mandated to balance its budget each year, and in addition to identifying areas of savings, the following budget reductions will be made for the next two months:
       •Medicaid: $210 million
       •K-12 Foundation Payment Reduction: $300 million
       •Other Education Budget Line Items: $55 million
       •Higher Education: $110 million
       •All Other Agencies: $100 million
      “Decisions like these are extremely difficult, but they are decisions that are part of my responsibility, as your governor, to make,” said Gov. DeWine, adding “We believe that instituting these cuts now will provide the most stability moving forward, however I am greatly concerned about the cuts we must make in education. We have an obligation to our schools to give them as much predictability as we can, but if we don’t make these cuts now, future cuts would be more dramatic.”
      The cutbacks in education funding will mean a revenue loss of $883,005, according to Nick Ciarniello, treasurer of the Boardman Local Schools.
      Last July, the Ohio Department of Education said the Boardman Local Schools could expect a $410,614 increase in FY20 (7.7%) and a $167,712 increase in FY21 (2.9%), Ciarniello said.
      The impact of statewide budget cuts on Boardman Township government have yet to be determined, according to all three township trustees, Tom Costello, Brad Calhoun and Larry Moliterno.
      However, Trustee Costello did indicate the township could expect decreases in gas tax and license plate fees funds. In addition, there could be cutbacks on Ohio Public Works Commission funding, the annual provides funding for about a third of the township’s road resurfacing programs.
      “We have concerns about the states Capital Budget, yet to be approved. These are the dollars that fund OPWC, our paving program and where we were hoping for funding of the Market Street School Water Project,” Costello said. “We are working and planning to be prepared to cut about $1 million from our budget,” Costello said.
      Meeting in April, the Boardman Local School Board indicated it is interested in selling off some of the frontage at the now vacant Market St. Elementary School.
      The school system has petitioned the Mahoning County Planning Commission and the Boardman Township Office of Planning and Zoing to consolidate the Market St. property into one property and then sell that portion of the land as one parcel of commercial property.
      The school system wants to extend the depth of the lot (currently platted as two lots in a residential area) to 250 feet.
      Some local officials suggest the school board would then be willing to sell off the remainder of the Market St. School property to Boardman Township for $1.
      The township is interested in creating a passive park on the Market St. School property, as part of drainage mitigation efforts.
      Former State Rep. Don Manning reportedly was touting a $1.25 million capital grant that would have funded demolition of the vacant school.
      Since it is unknown if the capital grant will still be available due to the coronavirus pandemic, if township trustees were to accept the Market St. property for $1, there is not funding that is currently available (without grant monies) to demolish the old school.
  Ohio House Committee Interviews 15 Candidates  
  For Seat Held By Rep. Don Manning:   May 14, 2020 Edition  
      COLUMBUS, OH.---Speaker Larry Householder (R-Glenford) has announced a selection committee to review candidates seeking to fill the 59th District seat in Ohio House of Representatives, vacated by the recent death of Rep. Don Manning.
      The 59th Ohio House of Representatives district includes most of Mahoning County.
      “Representative Manning loved serving the Mahoning Valley and took great pride in his work as a legislator,” said Householder. “I hope to fill the seat with someone who has that same passion for serving the people they represent.”
      Householder has tapped Representatives Jay Edwards (Chair) (R-Nelsonville), Sara Carruthers (R-Hamilton), Tim Ginter (R-Salem), Diane Grendell (R-Chesterland), Bill Seitz (R-Cincinnati), and Reggie Stoltzfus (R-Paris Twp.) to the selection committee that interviewed candidates on Monday and Tuesday, May 11-12.
      Those who have expressed an interest in the post were expected to be interviewed, Householder said. They include:
       •Joe Alessi: Faculty member in Youngstown State’s Department of History.
       •Perry Alexandrides: Regional liaison for auditor Keith Faber.
       •Jon Arnold: CEO of the J. Arnold Wealth Management Company
       •Tracie Balentine: Co-founder of Mahoning Valley Front Line Appreciation Group (MVFLAG).
       •Atty. Alessandro Cutrona.
       •Holly Deibel: Family owns Boardman Steel, former president of the Mahoning Valley Republican Women’s Club, served 11 years on the Air Force Reserves Council.
       •Steve Kristan: Spent over 36 years business Blue Cross, IBM, and AT&T.
       •Patrick Manning: Brother of Don Manning, has experience in property management and construction
       •Linda Mikula: Works for the Mahoning County Bar Association.
       •Sam Moffie: Poland Village councilman.
       •Jim Murphy: Corrections officer, former campaign manager for Don Manning.
       •Mark Nemenz: Pharmacist with over 20 years of experience in the health care industry
       •Christine Oliver: Former Canfield City councilwoman.
       •Kirk Susany: Owner of Susany Construction.
       •Jason Wilson: Former state senator who recently switched from Democrat to Republican
      Two persons who had expressed an interest in the post, Boardman Trustee Tom Costello and Compco CEO Greg Smith, withdrew their names from consideration, according to Tom McCabe, chairman of the Mahoning County Republican party.
      “We have a lot of good candidates for the post, and I am sure the creme will rise to the top,” McCabe said.
  Dr. Mary Anne Beiting Named Mooney Principal  
  May 14, 2020 Edition  
     Cardinal Mooney High School President Thomas Maj and the Diocese of Youngstown announce the appointment of Dr. Mary Anne Beiting as principal of Cardinal Mooney High School.
      Dr. Beiting has served as interim principal since January 2020.
      In addition to serving in the Office of Catholic Schools for the past four years as Director for Accreditation and Government Programs and the Director of Boards and Secondary Schools, Dr. Beiting served as principal of Archbishop Hoban High School in Akron from 1990-2016, as well as associate principal for two years prior. She taught high school and college French for 12 years before beginning her career as an administrator.
      Dr. Beiting received her Ed.D in Educational Administration as well as her Masters’ Degree in Educational Administration from the University of Akron. In 2014, she received a Certificate in Educational Evaluation and Assessment also from the University of Akron. Earning a Masters of Arts in French from the University of Kentucky in 1986, her undergraduate degree was earned in French and History from Centre College, Danville, Ky. in 1975.
      Dr. Beiting has served nationally on the Board of the National Catholic Education Association (NCEA) and has presented at national and local conferences. She was principal when Archbishop Hoban was named a Blue Ribbon School. She received the Distinguished Alumni Award from the University of Akron College of Education in 2012.
      “Dr. Beiting has served the Mooney Community well in her interim position, and I am excited that she has agreed to continue that good work into the 2020-21 school year. Her presence in that position will be a positive force as we transition Cardinal Mooney High School into the future,” Dr. Maj said.
      Dr. Beiting is a parishioner and active member of St. Vincent de Paul Parish in Akron, She and her husband, Michael, have four children and 11 grandchildren.
  Evidence In Murder Investigation Includes Cell Phones And DNA  
  Nicholas Burnett, of Boardman, Was Shot To Death Jan. 26 In Youngstown:   May 7, 2020 Edition  
     BY JOHN A. DARNELL JR.
      associate editor
      Sometime around 10:00 p.m. or so on Sun., Jan. 26, Nicholas Burnett, 35, of 162 Erskine Ave., became the city of Youngstown, Ohio’s first homicide of 2020.
      Burnett’s bullet-riddled body was found in a Kia Forte registered to his fiance, 36-year-old Katherine Cerimele, in front of 720 Parkview Ave., Youngstown.
      To date, no arrests have been made in the murder, although Youngstown police did obtain DNA evidence in April from an Austintown man, whose criminal record shows a conviction for heroin possession.
      According to reports compiled by the Youngstown Police Department, police recovered perhaps as many as nine, 9mm casings from the Forte, and as well, also took swab’s from Burnett’s fingernails. Evidence in the investigation also includes two cell phones, according to records of Youngstown police.
      On the night of Jan. 26, Youngstown police officers Jacob Short and Ber Fronzaglio were informed possible gunshots were recorded on a shot-spotter near 720 Parkview.
      “Upon arrival, we observed a male [later identified as Nicholas Burnett] laying over the center console (of a Kia Forte) with several, apparent gunshot wounds to his head and body,” Officer Short said, adding several spent shell casings were observed inside the car, and multiple other (casings) outside, leading just west of the vehicle.”
      Officer Short immediately checked the victim and reported he could find no pulse, “nor was there a reaction from the male’s pupils when a light was shown in his eyes.”
      Footprints in the snow leading from the Kia Forte to the front porch of 724 Parkview were observed, Officer Short said. There, police spoke with Timothy Grace and Chassidy Oliveira.
      “Both stated they were sleeping...when they heard a noise that had woken them up,” Officer Short said, adding Grace “stated he heard a knock at his front door, but did not answer due to not expecting anyone at that time of night. Upon them not hearing anything further, Timothy said he looked outside, but did not see anyone, so he went back to laying down.”
      At the crime scene, Officer Short said a man identified as Desmond Duvall approached law enforcement officers and said someone from 724 Parkview had called him stating that someone was knocking on their door.
      “When we asked [Duvall] if he had heard or saw anything, he stated “he did not, and that his bedroom is on the opposite side of the house of where the incident occurred. He added that he did not even think they were gunshots that he heard,” Officer Short reported.
      On Apr. 10, the Mahoning County Coroner’s Office ruled that Burnett’s death was a homicide, and that Burnett died of multiple gunshot wound, “shot by one or more individuals.”
      * * * * * * * * * *
      Nicholas Burnett was a 2003 graduate of Boardman High School where he played football under Head Coach Garry Smith.
      Even before he graduated, Burnett’s first issues with drugs began when on Christmas Day, 2002, he was arrested on a misdemeanor drug charge by the Boardman Police Department.
      It was two years later that he met his fiance, apparently while both were enrolled at Youngstown State University.
      In 2005, Burnett was found guilty of underage possession of alcohol and placed on 12 months probation.
      He was back in court in 2013 on charges of receiving stolen property and misuse of a credit card. He was found guilty, but was back in court the following year on a probation violation stemming from the charges.
      At a probation violation hearing, Boardman Court Judge Joseph Houser ordered Burnett to undergo treatment at Meridian Care and extended his community control until all requirements were met.
      The case remained before the local court and in Jan., 2017, Judge Houser ordered Burnett back into a program with Meridian, extending his community control to Jan., 2018. The judge said if Burnett did not comply, he could face up to 119 days in jail.
      With the issues over receiving stolen property and misuse of a credit card still clouding his freedom, Burnett was arrested by Boardman police on Aug. 9, 2016 on charges of possession of drug paraphernalia and possession of a drug abuse instrument.
      Those charges came after his fiance reported that she found Brunett unresponsive from an overdose.
      “Cerimele said she left 162 Erskine Ave. about 8:50 p.m. to run and grab a gallon of milk. Returning home at 9:10 p.m. she discovered Burnett in their office unresponsive. Cerimele grabbed one of Burnett’s suboxone strips and placed it in his mouth and called 9-1-1,” Ptl. Pat Klingensmith said at the time, adding “A hypodermic needle and a burnt spoon containing heroin residue were located on the desk where Burnett was found.”
      Seven days later, Burnett was charged with possession of drug abuse instruments and possession of drug paraphernalia after police responded to a traffic accident at the corner of Shadyside Dr. and Southern Blvd.
      “A white male, later identified as Nicholas Burnett, was found passed out in a Chevy Equinox with the vehicle still running and in gear,” Ptl. Nicholas Asimakopoulos said, adding “He had a syringe in his hand and a burnt spoon on the front passenger seat.”
      In Feb., 2017, Burnett was arrested by Youngstown police and a month later was indicted on charges of possession of cocaine.
      He received a court-appointed attorney on the charges, now Youngstown Muni Judge Renee DiSalvo, who promptly filed a motion for treatment in lieu of conviction.
      But Burnett never showed-up in court on the charge until May of 2018 when he pled guilty to the cocaine charge, at the same time when Common Pleas Judge R. Scott Krichbaum denied the motion for treatment in lieu of conviction noting his denial was “a result of the defendant’s whereabouts being unknown since Apr. 26, 2017.”
      But the judge didn’t sentence Burnett to jail, instead ordered a pre-sentence investigation.
      It was on July 16, 2018, with Rashaan Dykes of the Community Corrections Association (CCA) in court, that the prosecution and defense agreed that Burnett be placed on a period of community control for two years to be supervised by the Adult Parole Authority.
      Judge Krichbaum ordered Burnett to complete a Resident Treatment Program provided by the CCA.
      * * * * * * * * * *
      Three days after Burnett was found on Parkview Ave., his parole officer, Brigitte Lincoln, recommended his community control be terminated, noting Burnett was “pronounced deceased due to gunshot wounds.”
  Southern Park Mall To Reopen May 12  
  May 7, 2020 Edition  
      Southern Park Mall plans to reopen on Tuesday, May 12, with hours of 11:00 a.m. to 7:00 p.m. Mondays through Saturdays; and 11:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. on Sundays.
      Planned reopening dates for individual tenants may vary, so guests are encouraged to call ahead and to follow along on Facebook @SouthernParkMall and Instagram @SouthernPark for the most up-to-date information.
      Southern Park Mall remains focused on providing a safe and enjoyable experience for everyone. In the continued need to address COVID-19, the town center has proactively implemented additions to its ‘Code of Conduct,’ effective immediately and until further notice.
      These additions include the following guidelines:
       •Practice social distancing and stay at least 6 feet (2 meters) from other people.
       •Covering your mouth and nose with a cloth face cover is recommended.
       •Do not gather in groups.
       •Adhere to each individual tenant’s COVID-19 policies.
       •Adhere to all federal, state and local regulations, recommendations and mandates regarding COVID-19.
      The Code of Conduct is posted on the property and available online.
      In addition, Southern Park Mall’s already rigorous disinfectant and cleaning practices will continue, many times per day,including periodically disinfecting areas most susceptible to the spread of germs.
      Alcohol-based hand sanitizer dispensers are located in highly-trafficked areas and walkways for public use. Center management is meeting with housekeeping on a daily basis and monitoring alcohol-based hand sanitizing product supply to help ensure all units are stocked.
      “We are inspired by the resilience of our community and look forward to safely welcoming back our guests,” said Brian Gabbert, general manager at Southern Park Mall. “We will continue to work with local, state and federal agencies to do all we can in order to contribute to the containment, treatment and prevention of COVID-19.”
      While the Mahoning Valley transitions into reopening, Southern Park Mall is embracing its role as a community partner by finding unique ways to transform its space for social good.
      Blood drives and donation drives are just a few ways that Southern Park is showing its support for the local community during this trying time. Donations of non-perishable food, bottled water, laundry soap, toilet paper and toiletries are being accepted for The Salvation Army. Donations can be dropped off from noon to 5:00 p.m. daily. The donation bin is located outside the food court entrance.
      In addition, Southern Park Mall will host a second blood drive in partnership with the American Red Cross on May 21 from noon-6:00 p.m. Donors can schedule an appointment online atRedCrossBlood.org or by calling 1-800-REDCROSS.
      With the focus on serving the needs of its retailers and community partners across the country during the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic, Washington Prime Group, parent company of Southern Park Mall, is not providing detailed updates on ongoing redevelopment and construction activities at this time. That said, progress is continuing on leasing, planning, and construction at Southern Park Mall, and details will be announced as circumstances stabilize and return to normal.
      For more information about Southern Park Mall and its response to the COVID-19 pandemic, please follow Southern Park Mall on Facebook @SouthernParkMall or Instagram @SouthernPark.
      Southern Park Mall is home to more than 120 national and local retail, dining and entertainment options, as well as numerous events and activities throughout the year. For more information, call (330) 758-4512 or visit southernparkmall.com.
  Mr. Darby’s Goes On-Line  
  May 7, 2020 Edition  
      Mr. Darby’s Antique Emporium, 8574 Market St., is opening an on-line site for its customers that will provide a shopping site seven-days-a-week.
      “We had hoped to have this website up by the end of summer. Because of the recent situation with COVID-19 we worked hours to speed up the development and can now say we are online.
      “Two weeks ago, we went live and are growing the site daily. Items can be shipped anywhere in the world or we will do store pickup. All our vendors are adding inventory daily PLUS we are also adding stock from our 14,000 sq. ft warehouse that no one ever gets to shop. Our plans are to have over 1 million items for sale online by the end of the year.,” Bob Neapolitan, owner of the business said this week.
      Here is the link; https://shopcoolvintage.com/
      Currently Mr. Darby’s is open by appointment as per Gov. DeWine’s orders. This is to limit the amount of people in the store. Just call from the parking lot, 330-953-3226 and customers will be admitted to the store.
      Mr. Darby’s will be opening May 12 with social distancing and ask that all customers wear masks in the store.
  Teenage Girl’s Plea For Help Results In Arrest Of Two Men At Red Roof Inn  
  April 23, 2020 Edition  
     BY JOHN A. DARNELL JR.
      associate editor
      Two men were taken into custody last week [on Thurs., Apr. 16] after a 17-year-old girl was found leaving the Red Roof Inn, 1051 Tiffany South Blvd., at 1:50 a.m. yelling “Help me, I am overdosing.”
      Sgt. Glenn Patton said police had received a call from a female who claimed ‘it felt like her heart stopped beating.’
      Ptl. Anthony Ciccotelli arrived at the inn first and said he found Angel Long, 17, “repeatedly grabbing her breasts and saying “It hurts, tell them [to] hurry.’”
      Officer Ciccotelli said he asked Long what she took and the teenager replied “I snorted meth laced with fentanyl.”
      While authorities were dealing with the teenager, two persons were observed leaving the inn on foot. They were stopped and questioned, as by now, six police officers were on the scene.
      One of those questioned was identified as 37-year-old Andrew Vincent Ryan, 37, unemployed, of 2 Main St., Hastings on Hudson, New York.
      Prior to being transported by ambulance to St. Elizabeth in Boardman, Long told police she had been in Ryan’s room at the Red Roof Inn.
      According to Sgt. Patton, police learned Ryan had been staying at the inn ‘for a few weeks,’ but his stay would not be extended because Ryan and another patron (in a different room) had “paid in counterfeit cash.”
      Sgt. Patton said police went to Ryan’s room where they observed a cut straw that contained suspected drug residue, as well as a suspected drug pipe in a bathroom.
      Next, police went to the second room that had reportedly been paid for with counterfeit money and knocked on the door where they were greeted by 29-year-old Andre Marquis Morgan, unemployed, as 1334 Miami St., Youngstown, Oh.
      “Morgan explained he had ‘just recently been told to go to the room and hang-out there,’ but could not say for sure whose name the room was in, but it was rented for him so he could have a ‘kind of staycation.’” Officer Patton said.
      Continuing their investigation, police then spoke with a female who claimed she was employed at the Red Roof Inn and had been staying in a room there without the knowledge of her employers.
      The woman then said she had been staying in Ryan’s room, and indicated to police she was going to leave the Red Roof Inn and find another hotel to stay at “because I am fed-up with this,” Officer Patton said.
      “When asked what ‘this’ was, she said ‘the commotion,’” Officer Patton said, noting the woman would not elaborate further.
      Police obtained search warrants for two rooms at the Red Roof Inn.
      According to Sgt. Patton, in the room where Morgan was found, under a mattress, police found “12 items to include sheets of copied or partially copied U.S. currency and paper used to make counterfeit money.”
      When police searched Morgan, they found two meth pipes on his person, Sgt. Patton said, as well as suspected methamphetamine.
      In the room in which Ryan had been staying, Sgt. Patton said police found a cut straw with suspected narcotic residue and a suspected meth pipe, as well as two cell phones.
      Morgan was booked on charges of counterfeiting, possession of drug paraphernalia and possession of scheduled drugs.
      Ryan was charged with corrupting another with drugs and counterfeiting. Police confiscated $1,120 in currency from Ryan after one of the bills in his possession matched a copy of a phoney bill police had found in Morgan’s room.
      While the contingent of law enforcement was at the Red Roof, Boardman Ptl. Breanna Jones was assigned to follow-up with the 17-year-old Long at St. Elizabeth Hospital.
      “Medical personnel advised she had to be sedated due to her violent behavior, and I was unable to talk with her due to her sedated state,” Officer Jones said.
      Ptl. Jones said she did speak with Long’s mother, identified as Adelaide Crites.
      “Crites reported that her daughter has not been home since Mon., Apr. 13. Crites explained that Long was supposed to be staying with a female friend (whom she could not identify) and an unknown locating near Boardman,” Officer Jones said.
      When asked if her daughter had a boyfriend, Crites told Officer Jones, “I don’t think so.”
  BOARDMAN POLICE CHIEF: “Orders are in place to limit interaction by people in an effort to slow down the spread of Covid-19”  
  Groups Of 10 People Or More Should Be Dispersed, If Observed:   April 9, 2020 Edition  
     Over the past month Ohio Gov. Mike DeWine and Dr. Amy Acton, director of the Ohio Department of Health, have issued several orders that affect businesses and people in our community. Local, county, and state law enforcement, along with the county health departments are tasked with enforcing these orders. The orders are in place to limit interaction by people in an effort to slow down the spread of the Covid-19 illness.
      “During this time, our enforcement of these orders is extremely important. However, this is, and will continue to be very difficult for us based upon the complexity of the problem and the somewhat open-ended orders that are currently in place,” Boardman Township Police Chief Todd Werth said last week, suggesting “My guidance is that we will enforce these orders, but do so in a way that recognizes the strain on the public and our area businesses who are adjusting to a new way of life.”
      Outright enforcement issues to include citations and arrests will be a last resort, but are absolutely permitted at officers/supervisors discretion, the Boardman police chief told his officers, adding “That is after initial attempts have been met with resistance, repeat offenders, or based upon serious violations. Use good judgement to include getting input from supervisors or the on call administrator,”
      Chief Werth said he has had several conversations with the Mahoning County Health Department and the County Prosecutor’s Office about the orders as they apply to businesses in Boardman.
      “They are also sorting through these orders and have provided some guidance as to how to interpret each section,” the chief said, noting he is working through the Mahoning Valley Chiefs Of Police Association to push the state to tighten-up on certain areas.
      “Our enforcement at this time is complaint driven, or if we come across it during the course of our normal duties. The Health Department is also taking complaints and will be redirecting their inspectors to start checking on compliance,” Chief Werth said. The police chief urged people to email complaints (BoardmanPolice@boardmantwp.com) and refrain from calling into dispatch.
      To date, calls to the Boardman Police Department, as well as complaints, have been substantially declining, as the citizenry hunkers down in larger numbers in self-quarantine.
      In a lengthy memo to his officers, Chief Werth said the following:
      What defines “an essential business” is very open ended, but basically is a business that is essential based upon what they do or service they provide determines if they can still operate. Any essential business still open must adhere to social distancing practices outlined below. On a case by case basis, the Prosecutors Office has provided guidance on some individual businesses. Joann Fabrics and Hobby Lobby, for example, are allowed to remain open under the section that allows, “Businesses that sell, manufacture, or supply products needed for people to work from home.”
      Essential businesses must be operated with several practices that facilitate social distancing (remaining at least six feet apart). Minimum Basic Operations must take proactive measures to ensure compliance must include where possible: designate six-foot distances with markings, having hand sanitizer and sanitizing products available to customers and staff, separate operating hours for vulnerable populations, online and remote access.
      Restaurants are closed except for allowing delivery or take out. Ideally, they’ll have areas set up outside to facilitate pick up of orders. But that is not mandatory. People can be in the front part of restaurants waiting on orders (adhering to social distancing spacing). People should not be sitting down at tables, bars, waiting for an order, or drinking/eating.
      Bars are to be closed. If open as a restaurant they have to adhere to the above rules. Again, no “waiting” for your order inside, especially sitting at the bar. We have had reports of bars still being open to regulars and for specific parties. Parking is reportedly either behind the establishment or down the street, with one or two cars picking people up. Patrol should spot check locations and enforce accordingly.
      Parks are open, but people should practice social distancing outside of family groups. For example a family of five walking together is fine. But groups playing sports together, or congregating together is not allowed. Playgrounds, even located in open parks, are closed.
      Parties or gatherings of people of more than ten is not allowed. Private parties, back yard get together’s, etc. with large groups is prohibited. Identify owner/host of event and disperse crowd.
      Churches or religious facilities are considered essential and are allowed to be open. Travel to and from church is permitted. We have gotten several inquiries reference prayer caravans, drive up prayer services, etc. and have tried to discourage them. In these cases I’ve indicated that having less travel is beneficial to everyone. Several churches in the area are conducting virtual services.
      Public amusement, whether indoors or outdoors, including, but not limited to, locations with amusement rides, carnivals, amusement parks, water parks, aquariums, zoos, museums, arcades, fairs, children’s play centers, playgrounds, funplexes, theme parks, bowling alleys, movie and other theaters, concert and music halls, and country clubs or social clubs shall be closed. Fitness and exercise gyms, spas, salons, barber shops, tattoo parlors, and similar facilities are closed per the order.
      Landscaping companies are permitted to work under the auspices that the services are important to facilitate sanitation and limit overgrowth and increase of pests. Workers should be practicing social distancing requirements.
      Construction, to include existing structure repair and new is permitted. Workers should also be practicing social distancing requirements.
      Travel or leaving the home for Essential Activities is permitted. For purposes of the order, individuals may leave their residence only to perform any of the following Essential Activities:
       •For health and safety,
       •For necessary supplies and services,
       •For outdoor activity, For certain types of work (at essential businesses),
       •To take care of others (family members/neighbors by visiting or transporting them for services outlined above).
      Medical procedures are limited to essential and life saving. This includes dental and other medical fields. Any complaints in this area will be forwarded to the Health Department. Treatment facilities and counseling centers are authorized to continue to operate. They are to institute social distancing and other work place practices per the order. BPD will take no action to determine if activities in this area fall within the scope of the order, and rely on the Health Department to enforce.
      Car dealerships fall within the scope as being an essential business supporting transportation. Repair shops are essential. The businesses are to adhere to social distancing and other work place requirements as directed in the order.
      Minimum basic operations for all businesses can continue. This would include functions like maintenance or cleaning personnel operating in a closed business. Or repairs, security personnel, payroll personnel, or other needed functions in order to keep the business viable during any shut down.
      Golf courses fall under outdoor activity as determined by the State Department of Health. Social distancing and other measures and safety practices are required. The Prosecutor’s Office also just advised that tennis is permissible.
      Chief Werth advised his troops. “Group sports, with contact is discouraged. Again, groups of ten or more should be dispersed, if observed.”
     
  Work Continues On Leasing, Planning And Construction At The Southern Park Mall  
  April 9, 2020 Edition  
     WPG remains committed to executing a first-class redevelopment project at Southern Park Mall, which will feature the DeBartolo Commons entertainment and athletic greenspace venue for the benefit of our guests, tenants, and community neighbors and partners, Kim Green, vice president, investor relations and corporate communications said this week.
      “First, we at Washington Prime Group extend our appreciation for the community’s continued support for Southern Park Mall’s redevelopment as evidenced by the Mahoning County Commissioners’ vote to approve the Community Reinvestment Area agreement, Green said.
      With WPG’s focus on serving the needs of our property teams and community partners across the country during the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic...progress is continuing on leasing, planning, and construction at Southern Park Mall, and details will be announced as circumstances stabilize and return to normal, Green said.
      “Second, in the midst of an unprecedented health situation, more than ever, Southern Park Mall is embracing its role as a community partner by finding unique ways to transform its space for social good,” Green noted.
      The below initiatives are a few ways that Southern Park Mall is showing its support for the community:
       •Donation of Pottery Kits to local Nursing Facilities: Southern Park Mall is partnering with local business owner and tenant The Art Café to donate 20 pottery kits to Shepherd of the Valley (both locations in Boardman and Niles) and an additional 40 kits to the Beeghly Oaks Center for Rehabilitation and Healing in Boardman.
       •Providing Drive-Thru Lunch to First Responders and Healthcare Providers: On April 2, Southern Park Mall partnered with Chili’s to provide free ‘to go’ meals to first responders and healthcare providers. A white tent and ‘drive thru’ area was set up in the parking lot near the food court entrance.
       •Salvation Army Donation Site: Southern Park Mall will serve as a donation site for the Salvation Army. Nonperishable food items, bottled water, laundry soap, toilet paper and toiletries can be dropped off daily from noon to 5:00 p.m. The donation bin is located outside the food court entrance.
      Southern Park Mall remains closed at this time, with the exception of the following tenants:
       •BJ’s Restaurant & Brewhouse (offering delivery and carry out)
       •Buffalo Wild Wings (offering carry out)
       •PNC Bank
       •Firestone Complete Auto Center
      “WPG will continue to work with local, state and federal agencies to contribute to the containment, treatment and prevention of COVID-19,” Green added.
  In This Together Boardman  
  April 9, 2020 Edition  
     As Township Trustees of Boardman, we continue to ask our community to respect the orders set by Ohio Gov. Mike DeWine and practice social distancing, stay home, help others in need, and be part of the solution. Thank you, to the heroes working to support our
      community, we appreciate the sacrifice you are making to provide the community with essential services.
     
      On a daily basis, we are witnessing so many acts of kindness towards others. Trustee Brad Calhoun was recently handed a check for $10,000 to present to the Boardman Lions Club to fund the Boardman Schools food banks during this crisis. So many businesses have donated food, cleaning supplies, and personal
      protection equipment to first responders,
      neighborhoods have organized “bear hunts” for family fun, homemade face masks being made and donated, volunteers packing breakfasts and lunches for children, the list of kindness is incredible and we thank you!
     
      As a we continue to navigate this crisis, rest assured our Boardman Township employees will protect and serve our community.
      “Alone we can do little, together we can do so much.”
     
      BOARDMAN TOWNSHIP TRUSTEES
      Brad Calhoun, Tom Costello, Larry Moliterno
     
  Domestic Violence Call At Wagon Wheel Motel Leads To Arrest Of Pair Wanted In Morrow County  
  April 2, 2020 Edition  
     The woman had two severely bruised eyes,
      a small laceration under her left eye, a
      swollen nose and redness around her neck, left ear and wrists...She said she ‘slipped and fell’ in the shower.
     
      BY JOHN A. DARNELL JR.
      associate editor
      A 42-year-old man and a 35-year-old woman were arrested on warrants issued out of Morrow County, Oh. when Boardman police responded to a early-morning call of domestic violence at the Wagon Wheel Motel, 7015 Market St.
      Police were called to the motel at 4:26 a.m. last week on Mar. 24, where Ptl. Earl Neff and Ptl. Angelo Pasquale found a woman who identified herself as 29-year-old Rashonda N. Gray, who said she had been in an argument with her live-in boyfriend whom she identified as Calvin Wilson.
      ‘Gray’ told officers that she didn’t know ‘Wilson’s’ birth date.
      Officer Neff and Sgt. Glenn Patton went to look for ‘Wilson,’ while Officer Pasquale continued to interview ‘Gray,’ noticing the woman had “two severly bruised eyes, a small laceration under her left eye, a swollen nose and redness around her neck, left ear and wrists.”
      “I began to question the female about her injuries, and she stated they occurred when she ‘slipped and fell’ in the shower,” Ptl. Pasquale said.
      ‘Gray’ then changed her story, telling the policeman that the bruising around her eyes happened on Mar. 22 about 8:00 p.m. when ‘Wilson’ and she got into an argument, during which she was punched in the face three or four times.
      ‘Gray’ then told Officer Pasquale on the night of the police call, she was getting something to eat and woke ‘Wilson’ up, angering the man, and starting an argument.
      ‘Gray’ said she ended-up on the bed, pinned-down by ‘Wilson,’ who placed a pillow over her head to squelch her screaming.
      “She further advised that as the pillow was over her face, she was struck two-to-three times with a closed fist on the left side of her face,” Ptl. Pasquale reported.
      ‘Gray’ gave Officer Pasquale consent to search her room, and in plain view, police found a pill bottle bearing the name of ‘Ian Perry.’
      ‘Gray’ told police the bottle belonged to her boyfriend’s father, Officer Pasquale said.
      While Officer Pasquale spoke with ‘Gray,’ Sgt. Patton spoke with the Kanu Patel, manager of the motel, and learned a man used the name of ‘Don Perry’ to rent the room ‘Gray’ and ‘Wilson’ shared.
      “Patel could not remember the suspect’s name, but knew it was not Calvin,” Officer Pasquale said, adding “‘Gray’ finally admitted the man who was in her room was her husband, Ian Perry.”
      And, police were able to determine hat ‘Gray’ was actually Aliea I. Perry, 35, Ian Perry’s wife.
      “Aliea said she lied about her name because she didn’t want to get Ian arrested and she did not want to get arrested,” Officer Pasquale said.
      Aliea Perry was charged with obstruction and also charged on the warrant out of Morrow County (failure to appear).
      Ian Perry could not be immediately located, but about 13 hours later, Aliea called police, saying that her husband had returned to the motel.
      When police arrived back at the motel, Aliea said Ian wasn’t there.
      Ian Perry was found by Ptl. Joseph Olinger hiding in the laundry room at the nearby Boardman Inn about 3:30 p.m. Officer Pasquale said Ian Perry has two prior convictions for domestic violence, enhancing his charge on the local arrest to a felony-3; as well as a failure to appear warrant out of Morrow County
      “It was also determined that Ian Perry is currently set for sentencing in a Mahoning County Common Pleas Court on Apr. 15 for felony possession of drugs,” Officer Pasquale added.
      Last year the Wagon Wheel was closed for several months following inspections by the Ohio Fire Marshal’s Office and the Boardman Fire Department.
      Chirag Enterprises sued Boardman Township over the closure last summer, and at their Dec. 30, 2019 meeting, acting upon the advice of the Mahoning County Prosecutor’s Office, and inspections conducted by the Boardman Fire Department, Chirag and Boardman Township Trustees closed the matter in a journal entry proferred to the court.
      “The parties agree the nuisance has been abated. The Boardman of Trustees will not proceed with the nuisance abatement order,” said the journal entry.
      Since Jan. 1, Boardman police have answered a eleven calls to the Wagon Wheel Motel, the first coming on Jan. 10 when police were told a bad check had been passed at the business.
      That same day, just after 9:00 p.m., Steven Monday, 47, who was staying in room #7, called police claiming man was causing ‘a scene’ at the Wagon Wheel. Police spoke with 43-year-old Darrell McCary, of 150 West Princeton, Youngstown, Oh., who said he owned the motel. He was transported by ambulance to Mercy Health in Youngstown.
      Police learned that Monday was wanted on a failure to appear in court warrant on charges of no driver’s license, a seat belt violation and domestic violence. He was arrested and taken to the county jail.
      On Jan. 20 at 6:41 p.m., Boardman police were called to the Wagon Wheel to deal with a domestic dispute in room #14.
      Ptl. Nicholas Brent spoke with 20-yar-old Kylee Taylor Hamilton and 38-year-old Derrick Johnson Caston.
      Caston told police there had been no fight, but his girlfriend was upset.
      “Hamilton was highly agitated, and crying, and initially refused to exit the shower,” Officer Brent said, adding she also said there had been no fight and she had “a crazy moment.”
      On Feb. 1, police were called back to the Wagon Wheel on another call of a domestic disturbance between Hamilton and Caston. Both denied there had been any violence and said they had been arguing.
     
     
  BPD Chief Says Social Distancing Guidelines Are Being Monitored  
  “It’s Not The Time For Going Shopping”:   April 2, 2020 Edition  
     Boardman Township Police Chief Todd Werth is urging citizens and visitors to follow guidelines issued by federal and state agencies to adhere to social distancing guidelines and practices to stop the spread of the COVID-19 virus.
      “It’s not a time for going shopping,” Chief Werth said this week, urging resident and visitors to Boardman Township to go to store, “get their supplies and return home.”
      In the third week of the pandemic, Chief Werth says his department has relied on the cooperation of the public and businesses in the community in observing social distancing and ‘Stay at Home’ guidelines, citing numerous examples of people and Boardman businesses putting practices into place that work to help limit contact while still providing a service.
      “Travel for work that is considered essential, for medical reasons, to purchase food or medicine, and to check on those in need is permitted. Try and combine trips to limit exposure. Have specific lists prior to going to the store, and limit your time there. Now is not the time to linger, browse, or take families shopping endangering yourself or employees. While away from your home, to include walks, keep a minimum six foot distance from other people. Limiting interaction ultimately helps protect you, your family and the workers, first responders, and health care workers taking care of us,” Chief Werth said.
      The Boardman Police Department has the statutory ability to enforce the Ohio Department of Health orders and is working with the Mahoning County Public Health Department to monitor compliance.
      “In an effort to prioritize emergency calls and the dispatching of emergency personnel, please do not call into the Boardman Communications Center with questions/reports reference the Stay at Home order. If you wish to report a possible violation or have a question about the order, email us at BoardmanPolice@boardmantwp.com.,” Chief Werth said.
  Boardman Local Schools Food Distribution  
  April 2, 2020 Edition  
     IT WAS ‘ALL HANDS ON DECK’ ON MONDAY at Boardman Local School’s free breakfast and lunch meals distribution program at Boardman High School. More than 10,000 meals were distributed to 1,055 families. Pictured, Kathy Fait, administrative assistant in the transportation department, helps direct traffic at the site.
  Neighborhood Police Patrols A Priority  
  “Our patrol officers respond to calls for service, our detectives continue to investigate cases, and our dispatchers stand ready to take your calls.”:   March 25, 2020 Edition  
     BY TODD WERTH
      Boardman Townsip Police Chief
      The Boardman Police Department is committed to the safety of our community. We continue to actively patrol our neighborhoods and businesses in a proactive manner to deter and respond to criminal activity. Our patrol officers respond to calls for service, our detectives continue to investigate cases, and our dispatchers stand ready to take your calls.
      As every family, business, and organization in our country is doing, we are looking for ways to best navigate this pandemic. The safety and health of the public and our employees is a priority. While we have contingency plans in place, we recognize that we need to have healthy employees available to fill our critical enforcement and first responder role. We will continue to look at ways to be part of the national strategy to mitigate the risks of spreading this virus through limiting contact, while still working to do our jobs on a daily basis
      Our priority remains having uniformed officers patrolling our neighborhoods and community. Anyone breaking the law in any manner trying to take advantage of the current situation is one of our focuses. Additionally, for those criminals who think we are distracted, we will work with the Sheriff’s Department and the Courts to lock up the worst repeat offenders no matter the nature of the violations that may impact our community.
      During this time, continue to look after each other and especially those neighbors and family who are elderly, or may be more prone to victimization. Expect a different twist on frauds that seek to target people either door to door, over the phone, or through the internet. As we identify specific type of threats, whether they are financial frauds or others, we’ll work to put that information out to the public.
      As always, we appreciate everyone’s patience, cooperation, and support. Our goal is to maximize the number of officers who are on the street. To clarify, a routine call of a complaint for something like a barking dog, or an unlocked car that was entered into the night before, etc. are non-emergency complaints/reports. A suspicious person outside, someone actively involved in a crime, a fight or assault, etc. is an emergency call and you should contact us through 911. We will not hesitate to send an officer, especially several, if the situation dictates.
      Our normal and preferred practice is to take all type of reports in person either at the BPD Department lobby (for walk ins) or in person with an officer dispatched to a residence or business. However, until further notice the Police Department lobby will be closed and we’ll take reports by phone.
      Persons who come to the Police Department can use a phone in the outer lobby (8299 Market St.) that will connect to our Dispatch Center. There you will be connected directly to one of our Dispatchers. They will ask for some pertinent information and pass on your phone number to one of our officers. You will be called as soon as one of our officers are free. You can then provide the details of your complaint to the officer who will complete a report. If you call into the Dispatch Center (330-726-4144) to file a complaint or report, the dispatcher will take your contact information and again assign it to the next available officer, who will contact you to take the report. Depending on the matter, it will be assigned to a detective for further investigation and they will be in contact. If you need a copy of the report or other documentation from Boardman Police Records, we will ask to facilitate that through email, fax, or mail.
      We appreciate everyone’s patience and we’ll continue to keep providing updates. Don’t hesitate to call me directly with any questions or concerns at 330-729-2028.
  There Are Opportunities In A Crisis  
  “Help your kids continue to devote daily hours to their learning. Get interested in what they are studying.”:   March 25, 2020 Edition  
     BY CINDY MARTZ FERNBACK
      Boardman High School Principal
      It’s been an unusual week to be an educator.
      Each day, we were attempting to plan for a new set of parameters, and even as we planned, like sand, everything was shifting. We would sit in groups and discuss appropriate responses to the current situation, trying to account for all the pieces of our complicated puzzle, write out our messages to our school family, and coordinate our simultaneous release of information.
      Sometimes as we were issuing statements and instructions, the situation was changing yet again which made what we were saying suddenly incorrect or incomplete.
      Back to the planning table again.
      The number one concern when you are an educator is students. Educators love their students. Educators take enormous pride in their teaching craft and the hugely important responsibility of instructing their students. So throughout all of this shifting sand, teachers are trying to create instructional activities that can be delivered remotely without the essential face-to-face interactions that are truly where the magic of learning rests.
      And there I am, trying to encourage and motivate my teachers to create these remote activities, telling them, “you can do this,” and seeing the uncertainty in their faces. But, here’s what gets me every time I have to ask them to do something new and unthinkable, they do it. They jump in, some enthusiastically, some hesitantly, some fearfully. But they roll up their sleeves and get the job done.
      It seems like every year I have to stand in front of these teachers and ask them to face some new and extremely difficult challenge. I have to tell them that they can do it. I tell them that I know they can do it. And I do know they can do it.
      But my heart aches a little even as I tell them they can.
      Teachers were worried about their students. Teachers were wondering how to keep their students attached to the educational process when they are far away. They did their best to create remote lessons to keep students connected to the regular life of school and learning.
      But what about athletics? What about banquets? But what about concerts? But what about state testing? But what about prom? Or commencement? So many questions right now with few answered, unfortunately.
      For right now we know we need help, though. Teachers can’t do the daily work of standing near students and have to rely on parents to carry the torch. Parents, we need your help now. We have always been a team, even if we don’t always realize it. And now we need parents to help us during this strange time.
      Help your kids continue to devote daily hours to their learning. Get interested in what they are studying. Find supplemental information to deepen the experience. Read with them. Watch a related documentary together. Check that they are completing their remote assignments.
      There’s only so much that teachers can do and prepare in such a short time span. Parents can help so much to make the next three weeks as close to authentic learning as possible.
      Remember that this isn’t a snow day. Students have been released from school to prevent social contact. Keep your students home as much as possible and use this time for studies or art or gardening or camping in your backyard.
      Life is strange right now. But there are always opportunities in a crisis. Seek those opportunities with your children and enjoy this strange gift you have been given.
      Your children’s teachers await normal life again with lots of hope for a swift return to school days. Stay safe. Stay healthy.
      (Written on Mar. 14, 2020)
  Anamoly In Shooting Suspect’s Body Determined To Be A Bullet  
  March 12, 2020 Edition  
     BY JOHN A. DARNELL JR.
      associate editor
      The 19-year-old suspect charged in the Feb. 13 shooting death of 18-year-old Kane Wiesensee at 5515 West Blvd. had a bullet in his stomach when he was booked into the Mahoning County Jail, according to a variety of police sources.
      19-year-old Emanuel Boyd, of 5515 West Blvd. has been bound over to the Mahoning County Grand Jury on a charge of murder. He has been lodged in the jail since the night of the shooting.
      Sources say when suspects are booked into the jail, they must undergo a body scan, and while Boyd was going through the process, the scan detected an anomaly inside his body, that was determined to be a bullet.
      One well-placed police source told The Boardman News that upon discovering the bullet inside Boyd’s stomach, the suspect said a vehicle he been driving had been stopped by police prior to the time of the shooting, and he didn’t want to get in trouble, so he swallowed the bullet.
      The bullet was later recovered and turned over to Boardman police.
      Wiesensee died of a single gunshot wound to the chest, as his girlfriend was sitting in his lap, police said.
      According to police reports, Boyd first said the shooting happened “up the street,” claiming Wiesensee was the victim of a drive-by shooting. Ptl. Joe O’Grady said there were no footprints in the snow-covered ground to back-up Boyd’s claim.
      Wiesensee’s girlfriend, 18-year-old Sienna Holstein, told police she was sitting on her boyfriend’s lap and that Boyd “was playing with a gun” that she believed accidentally discharged.
      “She said she started freaking out and Kane started screaming. She also described feeling heat from the shot,” Officer O’Grady said.
  Boardman Schools Fund For Educational Excellence Reverse Raffle Fundraiser  
  Raises Funds for Mini-Teacher Grants:   March 12, 2020 Edition  
     THE BOARDMAN LOCAL SCHOOL’S FUND FOR Education Excellence held their annual reverse raffle dinner on Fri., Mar. 6 at Avion on the Water. The event raised over $30,000 that will be used for teacher mini-grants that enhance educational offerings to students in the system. Pictured at the event, from left are Don Riccitelli, board member of the Fund for Educational Excellence; Jerry Blasco, raffle winner; Tom Varley, Scott Lenhart and Matt Gambrel, also members of the board. Edie Davidson, not pictured, is president of the fund.
  How The State Took Over Youngstown City Schools  
  March 5, 2020 Edition  
      It was late on a Tuesday in June, 2015 when Ohio State Sen. Joe Schiavoni, of Boardman, got the call from a staffer for Gov. John Kasich (R). It was a courtesy call to let the Democratic minority leader know that Republicans would introduce legislation the next morning to dramatically alter the Youngstown public schools, in Schiavoni’s district.
      The Republicans would offer a 66-page amendment to a pending education bill, and it would be brought before a legislative committee in the morning, and then both houses would vote on it later in the day, the staffer said.
      Schiavoni protested, saying that he and his colleagues needed to read the proposal. Kasich wanted a vote on Wednesday, the staffer said.
      The lawmaker jumped in his car outside his home in northeast Ohio and drove 177 miles to the State House in Columbus, arriving at about 9 p.m. to get a copy of the proposal from Sen. Peggy Lehner (R), the chair of the education panel.
      As he thumbed through it, Schiavoni realized it was nothing like the education bill that had been pending and had received bipartisan backing.
      The Kasich administration’s amendment called for an aggressive takeover by a state-appointed chief executive who would have broad authority over the 5,109-student school system. The chief executive would be able to hire and fire, create budgets, set curriculum and professional development for staff and would have the ability to permanently close schools or contract with for-profits or nonprofits to manage them.
      The chief executive would not need a background in education; the only requirement is a “high level of management experience” in the public or private sector.
      One distinctive aspect of the takeover plan [was] a cash bonus paid by the state to any charter, private, parochial or suburban school system that accepted a student transferring out of Youngstown City Schools.
      One participant in the secret meetings on the takeover was Bishop George V. Murry of the Catholic Diocese of Youngstown, that operates several parochial schools in the city that would be eligible for such bonuses. Murry did not respond to requests for comment.
      Proponents of the plan said that financial incentive was a way to put pressure on Youngstown City Schools to improve rapidly. Critics said it was designed to hollow out the district until it collapses.
      Schiavoni said he told Lehner that he wanted more time to discuss the proposal and have hearings. “She said, ‘Gov. Kasich wants this passed tomorrow,’ ” Schiavoni said. Lehner could not be reached for comment.
      By the next night, the education committee had voted on the amended bill, and Republican majorities in the Ohio House and Senate had passed it, albeit narrowly, with a handful of Republicans joining all the Democrats in opposition. Kasich signed it into law in July.
      Kasich “knew if people read it they would have real questions, and if this was done the right way, with public hearings in the community and Columbus, people would have a lot of questions because of the drastic way it takes all the power from elected officials and puts it in the hands of one CEO,” Schiavoni said.
      A spokesman for Kasich said the governor felt great urgency to do something to improve the Youngstown schools.
      “Gov. Kasich had been vocal about the need to improve the Youngstown School system in light of the fact that they had been failing for nearly 10 years and students were being deprived of the education they deserved,” said Joe Andrews, the governor’s press secretary.
      More than 98 percent of the students in Youngstown are considered low-income. The children start school already behind the curve: 70 percent of kindergartners in 2013-2014 were not on track to read by third grade, an important indicator of academic potential.
      Youngstown City Schools have been hemorrhaging students. About half the school-aged students who live in Youngstown attend other schools---charters or private schools with or without taxpayer vouchers, or they enroll in suburban schools through open enrollment policies in which neighboring communities will accept city residents if they have room. (Editor’s Note: Many Mahoning Valley schools have used open enrollment to boost their budgets and cash flow)
      Schiavoni expressed concern that the new cash bonuses would speed the collapse of the existing school system.
      Asked by reporters about the way the legislation sped through legislature, Kasich said: “Some people said it moved too fast; I think it moved too slow,” he said. “Thank God this has happened.”
      The fast-track passage belies the fact that the Kasich administration had been steadily working to craft the takeover for 10 months behind closed doors with about a half-dozen of Youngstown’s business and community leaders, none of them elected officials.
      About half the group were state officials, including (former) Ohio School Superintendent Richard Ross. Notes taken at the meetings and released by the state show they were operating in secret and were concerned about Youngstown residents learning what they were doing.
      “Dr. Ross begins the conversation by reminding everyone that confidentiality amongst the Cabinet is essential until the plans begins to take place,” the notes from a May 21, 2015, meeting said.
      It was clear that Kasich’s staff wrote the takeover plan; even after the legislature passed the bill, some of the “cabinet” members were asking state officials to explain parts of it, according to the notes.
      But they were mindful about coordinating their public messages, working with a public relations specialist to make sure they were speaking with one voice as members of the Youngstown community, according to the notes.
      Excerpted from an article published
      on Feb. 1, 2016 in the Washington Post.
  Teen Charged In Shooting Bound Over To Grand Jury, Remains Jailed On $250,000 Bond  
  Weapon Sent To Ohio BCI For Tests:   February 27, 2020 Edition  
     BY JOHN A. DARNELL JR.
      associate editor
      19-year-old Emanuel Robert Boyd, of 5515 West Blvd., was bound over to the Mahoning County Grand Jury last week, charged with murder in the Feb. 13 shooting death of 18-year-old Kane Wiesensee.
      Boardman Court Judge Joseph Houser continued Boyd’s bond at $250,000. Boyd has been incarcerated in the Mahoning County Jail since the shooting.
      Wiesensee was shot in the early morning hours of Feb. 13 at 5515 West Blvd., a home owned by Boyd’s father, who is lodged in the county jail while awaiting trial on child sex-related charges, including rape.
      According to Wiesensee’s girlfriend, 20-year-old Sienna Holstein, shortly before 1:00 a.m. on Feb. 13, Boyd “had this gun and was playing with it” when the weapon discharged.
      Holstein told Sgt. Glenn Patton she was sitting on Wiesensee’s lap when he was shot.
      “She started freaking out, and Kane started screaming. She also described feeling heat from the shot,” Sgt. Patton said.
      Police recovered a Highpoint 9mm handgun from Boyd’s house in a cardboard box, along with a backpack. The backpack was reported to belong to Derek Slipkovich, 19, of 4962 Lockwood Blvd., Det. Ben Switka said.
      The gun’s serial number is reported to have been altered. It has been sent to the Ohio Bureau of Criminal Identification for ballistic tests, and where its ownership can possibly be traced.
      Boyd and Slipkovich knew each other and were Facebook friends.
      Three days before Wiesensee was shot, Slipkovich’s father, William, 42, reported his home at 4962 Lockwood Blvd. had been burglarized.
      Among the items reported stolen were a Highpoint 9mm pistol and a 50-round box of 9mm ammunition, according to a police report filed by Ptl. David Jones.
      William Slipkovich told police his family left the residence about 6:00 p.m. on Feb. 8, and returned the following day around 3:30 p.m. when they discovered the break-in.
      Slipkovich said the pistol and ammunition were taken from his bedroom and were in a small black bag he kept under the bed.
      “The pistol had a trigger lock on it that was removed by the suspects and left in the bag,” Slipkovich told Officer Jones.
      Police arrived at Boyd’s residence within two minutes of receiving a call of a shooting here.
      Ptl. Joseph O’Grady was the first officer to be at the scene and said he was met at the front door by Emanuel Boyd.
      Officer O’Grady said when he entered the residence he observed blood droplets in the foyer, and saw Wiesensee laying on his back near a couch, being held by Holstein.
      “I could hear the male gasping for breath, however he had a blank stare,” Officer O’Grady said.
      Moments later Sgt. Patton began CPR on Wiesensee, who was placed into an ambulance about 20 minutes later and transported to St. Elizabeth Hospital in Youngstown, where he was pronounced dead at 1:48 a.m., Officer O’Grady said. Wiesensee had a single gunshot wound to the left side of his chest, Officer O’Grady said.
      Also, in connection with their investigation into the shooting, police also went to 6102 Glenwood Ave., in connection with a search warrant.
      5515 West Blvd.
      Six days after the shooting, shortly after noon on Feb. 19, police were sent to the Boyd home, 5515 West Blvd., for a reported breaking and entering.
      Officer Jamison Diglaw spoke with Jason Jayne, who said he had been hired by the home’s owner, Robert Boyd, for remodeling projects while Boyd is in jail.
      Jayne told the officer he found a rear door ajar and garage door open, a day after a female had called him to ask if he had a key to the home so she could get some personal belongings.
      “Jayne advised the residence has been vacant for approximately one week,” Officer Diglaw said.
  St. Pat’s Parade Sunday, Mar. 15  
  H. William ‘Bill’ Lawson Grand Marshal:   February 27, 2020 Edition  
     The Mahoning Valley St. Patrick’s Parade will celebrate its 42nd anniversary when it travels down Market St. on Sun., Mar. 15, from Roche Way to Southwoods Dr. Theme of this year’s parade “Irish Heritage...Rooted Deep in the Valley.”
      Grand marshal this year will be H. William ‘Bill’ Lawson, executive director of the Mahoning Valley Historical Society. Serving as Lord Mayor of Kilkenny will be noted Mahoning County Court Judge Scott Hunter, a veteran of more than 20 years on the bench. Named for the Ockerman Award is Kurt Hilderbrand, who has served as a parade marshal for the annual St. Pat’s celebration since 2004.
      The parade committee is led by venerable local radio and television personality Casey Malone as president; assisted by Robb Kale, treasurer; Sharon Sabatka, secretary; and Joe Illencik, head marshal.
      H. William ‘Bill’ Lawson
      Lawson is Executive Director of the Mahoning Valley Historical Society. Lawson has worked for the Historical Society for 33 years, and served as Executive Director since 1991.
      Lawson is a Mahoning Valley native, and received his primary and secondary education in the Boardman Local Schools. He earned Bachelor of Arts and Master of Arts Degrees in History from YSU. He has researched, written and lectured extensively on the history of the Mahoning Valley.
      Lawson is a former board member of the Ohio Museums Association, and a past board member and President of the Ohio Local History Alliance. He is a 15-year member and Past President of the Rotary Club of Youngstown, the area’s first service club, and a board member of Youngstown CityScape, a development organization focusing on improvements in the central City.
      Lawson and his wife, Joan, a religious education consultant for the Catholic Diocese of Youngstown, live on the Youngstown’s west side and are active members of St. Patrick Church on Oak Hill Ave. Together they enjoy traveling, hunting for antiques and collectibles, and maintaining a vintage camper trailer and paddling on Guilford Lake in Columbiana County. He has two children: Meghan E. Lawson, a licensed massage therapist at Spinal Care Chiropractic Center in Columbiana County, and Brian W. Lawson, an electroencephalography technician at University Hospitals in Cleveland.
      Judge Scott Hunter, Esq.
      Judge Hunter is a lifelong resident of Mahoning County and a graduate of Canfield High School, Youngstown State University, and the University of Cincinnati College of Law.
      Currently a resident of Boardman, He has served as Mayor of the City of Canfield and also served as a member of Canfield City Council and as Council President.
      He began his service as a Mahoning County Area Court Judge with his appointment to the position in July, 1999. He was elected to a full six-year term in the fall of 2000 and reelected in 2006, 2012, and 2018, serving the Area Courts located in Austintown, Boardman, Sebring and Canfield.
      Currently Judge Hunter serves as the Administrative and Presiding Judge for the Area Courts. He presided over the Misdemeanor Drug Court from April 2001 until April 2014, where he worked to expand it into a successful rehabilitative Court alternative.
      For his work with the Drug Court, Judge Hunter received the Excellence in Service Award, Volunteer Category from the Mahoning County Alcohol and Drug Addiction Services Board as well as the Hope Has A Home Award from the Neil Kennedy Recovery Clinic.
      He has maintained a private law practice for nearly 32 years and has been one of the owners of Hunter-Stevens Land Title Agency, Ltd. for over 22 years. He currently serves on the Board of Directors of the Mahoning County Agricultural Society and the Canfield Fair Foundation. He previously served as a member of the Board of Directors of United Community Financial Corporation and Home Savings Bank. He is involved in numerous community, church and civic activities and is a member of the Association of Municipal/County Judges of Ohio, the Ohio State Bar Association and the Ohio Land Title Association. He currently serves as Trustee of the Mahoning County Bar Association Foundation.
      Most importantly, he is married to the former Michelle Marino, and father to three daughters, Ashley, Emily (Christopher) Hammond and Katie, his step-daughter, Jessica, step-son, Austin, and grandfather to Hunter Mary.
      Kurt Hilderbrand
      Kurt is the son of Beverly O’Neill Hilderbrand and Robert Hilderbrand and has lived in the Mahoning Valley his entire life. He is a graduate of Poland Seminary High School and a graduate of The Youngstown State University with a degree in mechanical engineering.
      He is married to Donna Slagle and together they have a son Kent (23) who is also involved as a parade marshal.
      Hilderband is a member of St. James Episcopal Church Boardman where he has served as Eucharistic Minister, Reader and served three terms on the Vestry.
      He has been involved in the Boy Scouts of America since 1985, he is an Eagle scout, and is currently serving as District Committee member for the Whispering Pines District Great Trail Council. He previously served as Scoutmaster of Troop 80 North Lima, Ohio for 15 years, and was on the board of directors for the Greater Western Reserve Council, BSA. As a scouter he has been awarded the Order of the Arrow Vigil member, Silver Beaver Award, District Award of Merit, Wood Badge and Wood Badge Staffer.
      Hilderbrand is employed as mechanical project engineer with Primetals Technologies in Canonsburg, Pa. He has been a Parade Marshal since 2004.
      Parade Committees/Marshals
      Other members of this year’s parade committee are, Tom Butler, Joe Calinger, Pat Chrystal, Marilyn Carroll, Julaine Gilmartin, Mark Smith, John Sheridan, Mary Jane Venitti and Grant Williams.
      Serving as marshals will be Bill Leskovec, Jason Calinger, Anthony Sabatka, Terry Coyle, Brian Kelly, Doug Sherl, Mike Timlin, Lenny Sefcik, Jim Doran, Ray Kelly IV, Tom Eich, Tim Kelly, Anthony Wanio, Rob Pappas, Lee Arent, Rich Perrine, Kent Hildebrand, Kelsey Warmley, Nick Mozingo, Alex Mangie, Rob Tamburro, Dante Lewis, Dennis Murphy, Anthony Magrini, David Manion, Ashley Kale, Michelle Rucci, Bob Hankey, Adam Hankey, Kurt Hildebrand, Buzz Kelty, Larry Kacenga and Larry Harwell.
      The Parade
      The Mahoning Valley St. Patrick’s Parade is one of the largest parades in the state of Ohio. Each year upwards of 25,000 spectators come out to celebrate this beloved family tradition. More than 120 units march in the parade.
  19-Year-Old Boy Faces Charges In Shooting Death Of His Good Friend  
  18-Year-Old Kane Weisensee Was Shot In The Chest At 5515 West Blvd.:   February 20, 2020 Edition  
     BY JOHN A. DARNELL JR.
      associate editor
      A preliminary hearing was set for this week in the Boardman courtroom of Judge Joseph Houser for 19-year-old Emanuel Boyd, of 5515 West Blvd., who was charged with murder in the death of his good friend, 18-year-old Kane Wiesensee, who died from a gunshot wound to the chest from a 9mm handgun about 1:00 a.m. on Thurs., Feb. 13 at the West Blvd. home.
      According to a variety of police sources, the murder charge could be reduced to an involuntary manslaughter charge, or another lesser charge as the sources indicate the shooting is accidental.
      The weapon police believe was used in the shooting was recovered from a cardboard box in the garage of the home.
      Boyd could face charges related to possession of the gun, as he had a juvenile record that prohibited him from having a weapon.
      In addition, police are investigating to determine if the gun had been stolen during some recent home break-ins. Several sources told The Boardman News that Boyd and Wiesensee were considered suspects in those break-ins.
      One police source indicated there was a lack of “adult supervision” at the home at 5515 West Blvd. According to the Mahoning County Auditor’s Office, the home is owned by Robert Boyd, 49, (Emanuel’s father) who is presently incarcerated while awaiting trial after being indicted on Mar. 15, 2018 on charges of rape, gross sexual imposition, disseminating matter harmful to juveniles and illegal use of a minor in nudity-oriented material or performance.
      The home is $4,143.76 delinquent in property taxes, according to the Auditor’s Office.
      According to a police source, Emanuel Boyd, Weisensee and his 20-year-old girlfriend were believed to be living at the home.
      Emanuel Boyd could also face an additional charge of obstruction.
      When police arrived at the West Blvd. home last Thursday, they reported that Boyd told them the shooting happened ‘up the street’ when shots were fired from a car with no lights on, as he and Weisensee were walking along West Blvd.
      That claim was disputed when Weisensee’s girlfriend said she was sitting on her boyfriend’s lap while Boyd was playing with a gun that discharged, striking Weisensee in the chest.
      Emanuel Boyd is being held on a $250,000 bond, and was reported to be on probation after his conviction on felony charges as a juvenile.
      According to the Boardman Police Department’s School Resource Officer, Ptl. Phil Merlo, he and Glenwood Middle School Principal Bart Smith went to a home at 5532 Lockwood Blvd. on Jan. 5, 2017 to check on the welfare of an eighth grade student, Emanuel Boyd’s 13-year-old sister, who had not been in school, or reported off of school for two days, and had already incurred a dozen unexcused absences for the 2016-17 academic year.
      When Merlo and Smith arrived at the home, the said they were met by 18-year-old John Ferguson, who said he had ‘just moved-in a few days ago,’ and who directed them to the girl’s brother, Emanuel ‘Manny’ Boyd,’ who was in the family room.
      “I was familiar with Emanuel from prior arrests and had information that he was recently released from court-ordered drug rehabilitation and that he had been attempting to acquire a handgun,” Officer Merlo said.
      SRO Merlo said he asked the then 16-year-old boy why he wasn’t in school, and the teen replied he had moved back with his father, Robert Boyd, on Dec. 21, 2016, and had not yet registered for school.
      The policeman said as he was speaking with Boyd, he observed an empty box of 9mm handgun ammunition on a computer desk.
      “That ain’t mine...I don’t know how that got here...I ain’t allowed no guns,” Officer Merlo said that Boyd responded, adding that police searched the home and found no weapons.
      According to Officer Merlo, Robert Boyd eventually showed-up at the Lockwood Blvd. home near noon and indicated to police that Emanuel’s younger sister “may have been with a friend” at the Traveler’s Inn, 6110 Market St. where a man named Steven Prest, 35, a registered sex offender, resided.
      When police knocked on the door of the room where they believed Boyd’s sister was, Merlo said they were met at the door by an 18-year-old male who claimed to be an eighth grade student at Center Middle School.
      “A strong smell of burnt marihuana was evident,” Officer Merlo said, adding when he asked if Boyd’s little sister was in the room, the teen stated “no,’ and when asked if he, Det. C.F. Hillman Jr. and Det. Rick Balog could check inside the room, the teen replied “no, not really...this ain’t my place.”
      At this point, Officer Merlo said he heard was sounded like someone moving around in the rear bathroom area of the room, and found the 13-year-old girl inside.
      Prest’s parole officer, identified as Dwight Paskovich, was notified of the incident.
      More than a year later, on Oct. 28, 2018, at 11:40 a.m., three Boardman police officers, Sgt. Paul Grimes, Ptl. Jamison Diglaw and Ptl. Mike Calautti were sent to 5515 West Blvd. on a call of a burglary, and where a neighbor was watching the residence due to numerous break-ins at the home.
      As police arrived, Officer Calautti said police found Prest and a 20-year-old woman identified as Kathryn Cooper “walking through the yard.”
      Prest and Cooper told police they had been invited to the home by Emanuel Boyd’s little sister and had spent the night at the house.
      This time, Robert Boyd, who was lodged in the county jail, was contacted by police and asked if anyone was allowed to be there.
      “A deputy advised that no one was to be at the house,” Officer Calautti said.
      On Nov, 9, 2018, three Boardman police officers, Ptl. David Ritz, Ptl. Shawn McClellan and Ptl. Shannon Chaffe were dispatched to 5515 West Blvd. where they spoke with Robert Boyd, who said that earlier in the morning he had been released from the county jail and upon returning to the home. He found it in deplorable condition, and that a safe in the basement had been tampered with.
      According to court records, Mahoning County Common Pleas Judge Maureen Sweeney revoked Boyd’s bond on Jan. 9, 2020 “due to defendant violating the terms of bond” and ordered him to be remanded into custody at the Mahoning County Jail with a jury trial set for Apr. 27 on charges of rape, gross sexual imposition and disseminating matter harmful to juveniles.
      Emanuel Boyd and Weisensee came to the attention of Boardman police on Aug. 27, 2017 during an investigation of vandalism at 737 Havenwood Dr. where a rock had been thrown through a window. A 19-year-old male at the home said there had been arguments over a boyfriend-girlfriend situation, and identified Boyd and Weisensee as involved in the disagreement.
      The teenage resident of Havenwood said he had received messages over social media, asking him to come out of the house for an “apology.” Shortly after refusing the offer, a rock was thrown through a front window of the home, Officer Tallman said.
  14th Cattle Baron’s Ball Set For Apr. 4 At Lake Club  
  February 13, 2020 Edition  
     On Saturday, April 4, the 14th annual American Cancer Society Cattle Baron’s Ball will be held at the Lake Club. The ball is one of the Mahoning Valley’s premiere charity events, with tickets selling out each year, raising dollars to fund the fight against cancer.
      This year’s honorees, chairs and special guests include Pat and Doug Sweeney, honorary chairs of the event; Dr. Thomas J. Chirichella III, medical honoree; Robin Daprile, cancer survivor honoree; Brett Wilcox and Ava Timko, special guests, pediatric cancer survivors; and Carole Weimer and Annette Camacci, co-chairs of the ball.
      “Along with event presenting sponsor Mercy Health, the Cattle Baron’s Ball volunteers and staff are honored to have such a distinguished group of honorees and special guests committed to helping fight cancer,” Weimer said.
      Community philanthropists Patt and Doug Sweeney will serve as the honorary chairs. Doug is the president of Sweeney Chevrolet Buick GMC in Boardman, and Patt is recently retired as the health commissioner for Mahoning County.
      Medical honoree is Dr. Thomas J. Chirichella, medical director at the Mercy Health Hepatobiliary and Pancreatic Center.
      Survivor honoree Robin Daprile, owner of Robin Daprile Personal Training Services and is a two-year survivor of breast cancer.
      Ava Timko and Brett Wilcox, both 12-years-old, have been past honorees at the event, and they provide hope for the future with their attendance every year as special guests.
      The Cattle Baron’s Ball will offer attendees a lively, western-themed party featuring gourmet cuisine, musical entertainment and dancing, live and silent auctions, and much more. Attendees are encouraged to don their favorite country-western denim and add some glitz for this “Denim and Diamonds” event.
      Entertainment will be provided by Leanne Binder during the 6:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. cocktail hour, and the K Street Band will provide entertainment for the balance of the evening. Returning this year are Dana Balash from WFMJ as master of ceremonies, and Paul Basinger, as the auctioneer for the evening’s live auction.
      The event is made possible through the support of the presenting sponsor Mercy Health. Additional major sponsors include Gem Young, Hollywood Gaming, Mercy Health Hepatobiliary and Pancreatic Cancer Center, The Muransky Companies, Simon Roofing, Richard and Susan Sokolov and Komara Jewelers.
      To purchase tickets, provide a sponsorship or auction items, contact the American Cancer Society at 330-318-4107, or visit www.youngstowncattlebaronsball.org.
     
      PICTURED: READY FOR CATTLE BARON’S BALL: In front, from left, Annette Camacci, Brett Wilcox, Ava Timko and Robin Daprile In back, from left, Carole Weimer, Dr. Thomas J. Chirichella, Patt Sweeney, Doug Sweeney
  Cardinal Mooney Hall Of Fame Ceremonies Set For Sun., Feb. 16  
  February 6, 2020 Edition  
     Cardinal Mooney High School’s Athletic Hall of Fame Ron Stoops Scholarship Dinner will be held at the Lake Club in Poland on Sunday, Feb. 16. Hors d’oeuvres and cocktails will be served at 6 p.m. The buffet dinner and open bar is set from 6:45- p.m. to 8:00 p.m., followed by the induction ceremonies. Tickets are $85/person or $680 for a table of eight. Proceeds will benefit the Ron Stoops Scholarship Fund.
      This year’s inductees include: Kimo DeNiro (football, class of ’86), Katie (Dick) Plus (golf, ’04), Brianne Diorio Alaburda (softball, ’00), Erica Dorbish Vass (soccer, ’01), PJ Guerrieri (baseball, ’92), Jeffrey Hehr (baseball / basketball, ’04), Mike Hughes (football, ’96), Jack Kohl (football, ’82), John V. Mahoney (football, ’84), Paul Palumbo (significant contributions), Lori Patrone Lucas (basketball / track, ’04), Ronald F. Stoops (football, ’04), Patrick Walker (soccer, ’03), and Brian Woychick (football, ’00).
      For reservations, call (330) 788-5113 or go to www.CardinalMooney.com. More information is available by contacting Don Bucci at (330) 788-9879.
  Shortly After Allegations Of Bullying Made In Court Document, Mooney President And School Principal Leave Their Positions  
  February 6, 2020 Edition  
     BY JOHN A. DARNELL JR.
      associate editor
      Following a hearing in a Mahoning County Common Pleas Courtroom involving allegations of bullying at Cardinal Mooney High School, as well as failure to fully investigate those allegations, the Catholic Diocese of Youngstown announced last week the President of Mooney, Mark Oles, and the school principal, Mark Vollmer, were leaving their positions “effectively immediately.”
      Additionally, there have been allegations of a second instance of bullying, but those did not become part of a court case. In both instances, the student-athlete who made the claims, transferred from Mooney to Ursuline High School.
      “We realize that sudden change like this will most likely prompt questions and perhaps, speculation and rumor. We want to emphasize that this change is the result of much discussion, review and reflection about what is best for Cardinal Mooney’s students, parents, teachers, staff and many other supporters,” Diocesan Bishop The Most Rev. George Murry said.
      The claims of bullying surfaced in court documents filed in relation to a complaint for an injunction that was heard in the courtroom of Judge Anthony M. D’Apolito in mid-January. The injunction was sought to prevent the Ohio High School Athletic Commission from ruling a student-athlete at Ursuline, who had transferred from Mooney, was ineligible to participate in a full season of an interscholastic sport program.
      According to the complaint filed by Atty. Justin Markota, one student claimed during the time of his enrollment as a freshman at Mooney in 2017, through Oct., 2019, he was the victim of “ongoing intimidation, harassment and bullying from his classmates.”
      As a sophomore, according to the complaint, the ongoing effects of “intimidation, harassment and bullying...prompted the student to undergo counseling,” and by his junior year, “the intimidation, harassment and bullying...from fellow classmates progressed to the point where he began experiencing diminishing grades, anxiety and overall fear for his safety while attending classes.”
      According to the complaint, the child’s mother informed Vollmer and Oles about the bullying in early October, 2019 and then the child transferred to Ursuline in mid-October.
      “His parents felt...the transfer was necessary for [the child’s] mental and physical well-being, as the bullying was continuous,” the complaint says, adding that following his transfer to Ursuline, “the child remained in the care of a counselor.”
      Atty. Markota told the court “Cardinal Mooney did not formally investigate the bullying allegations...nor did [the school] prepare a written, investigative report” following the child’s transfer to Ursuline.
      Counsel said in the complaint that Vollmer said he was aware of the bullying complaint and told teachers to monitor the school hallways.
      “Vollmer explained he did not interview any students, or prepare a rewritten report of any bullying findings following [the student’s] transfer,” Atty. Markota said.
      Judge D’Apolito granted injunctive relief to allow the student to participate, for now, in interscholastic sports, and set another hearing in the matter in February.
      According to the Diocese, for the remainder of the 2019-2020 school year, Cardinal Mooney CEO Richard Osborne will assume the president’s duties, and Dr. Mary Anne Beiting, director of accreditation and government programs for the Diocesan Office of Catholic Schools, will assume the role of interim principal at Cardinal Mooney.
      “Both have been working at the school on a daily basis since last November,” the Diocese said.
      Osborne previously served as president at Villa Angela-St. Joseph High School in Cleveland, overseeing a period of substantial growth in enrollment and fundraising, the Diocese said, adding “Those issues have been his focus since joining Mooney.”
      Beiting served for 26 years as principal at Archbishop Hoban High School and “will continue her work at Mooney on strategic programs and policies to strengthen the school’s academics,” the Diocese said.
      Bishop Murry said an extensive search for the next Cardinal Mooney president and principal will begin soon, noting the school “has a proud, rich tradition of sanctity, scholarship and discipline. We will build on that as we move forward.”
  Seventh District Appeals Court Upholds 2018 Assault Conviction  
  Gabriel Mathews Fell Unconscious At Home Depot:   January 30, 2020 Edition  
     BY JOHN A. DARNELL JR.
      associate editor
      A decision of the Seventh District Court of Appeals has upheld the conviction and seven year jail sentence of a 55-year-old Youngstown man in a brutal assault that happened at Home Depot, 7001 Southern Blvd., on July 14, 2016.
      Brian D. Murray, 59, of 2204 Canfield Rd., found guilty of assaulting Gabriel Mathews, now 60-years-old, on Feb. 26, 2018 in the courtroom of Judge John Durkin.
      According to records of the Boardman Police Department and the court, Murray pummeled Mathews into unconsciousness.
      Murray admitted to the assault, but claimed he had acted in self defense.
      According to a transcript filed by Assistant Mahoning County Prosecutor Ralph Rivera, about 4:30 p.m. on July 14, 2006, Murray and Mathews were both at Home Depot.
      Mathews, who said he is a self-employed general contractor who specializes in bathroom remodeling, said he was working on a job in Youngstown when he and a man, Lee Otagah, went to Home Depot to get some supplies.
      Mathews said he walked into the store and saw Murray, and claimed when he attempted to “shake hands” with Murray, he was assaulted.
      Otagah told the court that Murray was “very aggressive towards Mathews, hitting him with a closed fist.”
      “You know, it was very aggressive, very violent...It wasn’t really a fight. I would say more or less, it was just [Murray] hitting [Mathews] and it escalated,” Otegah said. He said the confrontation ended outside the store where Murray struck Mathews “one last time and Gabriel fell down and went into an unconscious state.”
      Dr. Amanda Mason, an emergency room physician at St. Elizabeth Hospital in Youngstown, said when Mathews arrived at the hospital, “he was very confused. His face was very bloody...We immediately treated him as what we call a trauma patient. I think he sustained enough injuries for us to call out all the bells and whistles.” The doctors said that Mathews sustained multiple areas of bleeding inside the brain, we well as skull fractures. He was directly admitted to the surgical intensive care unit.”
      Dr. Donald Tamulonis, a neurologist, told the court that “with the initial assault, [Mathews] had a seizure, which is very common in blunt head trauma. Dr. Tamulonis concluded that Mathews had a skull fracture and bilateral subdural hematoma and intracranial bleeding.
      “It was a life-threatening disorder,” Dr. Tamulonis said, adding that Mathews required prolonged hospitalization based on his injuries.
      “Mathews intracranial hemorrhaging was the major concern, which resulted in a permanent injury,” Dr. Tamulonis told the court, noting that six days after the confrontation, “Mathews was more awake and talking...but he did not remember his name. He was still confused, he thought he was at Wick Park, he thought the month was March.”
      Murray told the court he and Mathews had previously worked together and sometime in Oct., 2015, the two got into an argument where Mathews supposedly told Murray, he would ‘burn his house down and kick his ass.”’ Murray claimed that Mathews had “bragged about a couple of altercations he was in.”
      Murray told the court when he saw Mathews at Home Depot, he thought “this guy is about to hurt me” and “I feared for my life.”
      A witness at the trial in Judge Durkin’s court, identified as David Asher, told the court he saw Murray at a laundromat in Cornersburg, sometime before the confrontation at Home Depot.
      During a conversation between the two men, Asher said that Murray told him “Mathews owed him money and he wants it.”
      Asher claimed Murray told him “If Gabriel don’t pay, he’s going to beat him down.”
      Murray denied ever having that conversation, the court record reflects.
      Murray’s conviction was appealed to the Seventh District Court by his counsel, Atty. Lou DeFabio.
      His appeal was based on claims of three errors at law---That Asher should not have been allowed to testify because the nature of his testimony had not been disclosed prior to trial; that jury instructions were improper; and the jury’s verdict of guilty was against the manifest weight of evidence.
      Seventh District Judges Carol Ann Robb, Gene Donofrio and Cheryl Waite rejected DeFabio’s claims.
      “It is difficult to conclude...that the trial court abused its discretion in allowing David Asher to testify,” the Seventh District decision, authored by Judge Robb said, noting the Murray’s then counsel, Atty. Mike Kivlighan, “clearly had the opportunity to interview Asher and knew the content of his testimony before he testified.”
      Atty. DeFabio argued the semantics of the jury instruction in Judge Durkin’s court, as well as concerns over “trial counsel’s failure to request instruction on aggravated assault, an inferior degree offense to felonious assault.”
      Judge Robb quoted the jury instruction given as “Words alone do not justify the use of force. Resort to force is not justified by abusive language, verbal threats or other words, no matter how provocative.”
      Judge Robb also said that Murray’s trial counsel’s conduct “fell within the wide range of professional assistance” and his failure to request instructions on lesser included offenses “constituted a matter of trial strategy.”
      In rejecting Atty. DeFabio’s claim the jury’s verdict of guilty on a felonious assault charge was against the manifest weight of evidence, Judge Robb said that Murray was convicted of “knowingly causing serious physical harm to another...
      “Considering [the] evidence, we cannot find the jury clearly lost its way when it rejected [Murray’s] claim of self defense...Considering the evidence, whether [Murray] acted in self defense when he repeatedly punched Mathews was a question of fact for the jury to decide.”
      Following the appellate court’s ruling, Atty. DeFabio has filed a request indicating he would like to appeal the Seventh District Court’s decision to the Ohio Supreme Court, saying that Murray is indigent and he will represent Murray as a court-appointed counsel (at public cost).
  Zoning Commission Denies Meijer’s Request For Gas Station  
  January 30, 2020 Edition  
     Meeting last week, the Boardman Township Zoning Commission, by a unanimous vote, denied a proposal by Meijer’s to build a gas station at Lockwood Blvd. and Tippecanoe Rd.
      The firm has proposed building a 3,330 sq. ft. gas station/convenience store on property currently occupied by two homes.
      A Meijer’s spokesman, Real Estate Manager Chris Jones, said the firm has been negotiating to buy those properties, that are located across Lockwood Blvd. from the site of their proposed new facility.
      Zoning Commission Chairman Peter Lymber expressed concerns on traffic flows, as did Boardman Road Superintendent Marilyn Kenner, who lives on Lockwood Blvd. and spoke in objection to the proposal as a private citizen.
      Meijer’s has proposed to build a new facility bounded by Lockwood Blvd. and Rt. 224 on a 39-acre site, 17-acres of which would be developed at a cost of between $20 million to $25 million.
      The zoning commission’s decision last week can now be submitted to Township Trustees, who have heard concerns about increased traffic flows from many residents who live just north of the proposed development.
      Speaking before the zoning commission, Jones said Meijer’s has plans to break ground in February. He said deed restrictions prevent the firm from building a gas station on the 39-acre site.
     
  County Commissioners Unanimously Approve CRA At Southern Park  
  January 16, 2020 Edition  
     The Mahoning County Commissioners, Anthony Traficanti, David Ditzler and Carol Rimedio-Righetti unanimously to approve a resolution for the creation of a Community Reinvestment Area (CRA) at the Southern Park Mall when they met at the Boardman Township Government Center on Thurs., Jan. 16.
      The resolution will be forwarded to the Ohio Department of Economic Development for final approval.
      “By creating a CRA, we will be assisting the mall in its economic redevelopment, Commissioner Traficanti told The Boardman News.
      A CRA designation would encompass all of the mall property, including that owned by the Washington Prime Group, as well as the former Dillard’s Department Store, currently owned by Trumbull County-based Cafaro Corp. interests, The Boardman News was told.
     
  Registrations For Rental Units Due By March 1  
  January 16, 2020 Edition  
     BY JOHN A. DARNELL JR.
      associate editor
      Meeting on Monday, Feb. 13, Boardman Township Trustees learned their Planning/Zoning Department is in the process of sending out notifications for property owners of rental units that annual fees are due no later than Mar. 1.
      The township’s rental registration program began last year when some 1,616 buildings encompassing 5300 units were recorded by the Planning/Zoning Department, according to Tricia D’Avignon, assistant director of zoning and development.
      “Rental registrations must be returned to Boardman Township by Mar. 1. After that, late fees will apply,” Krista Beniston, director of planning and zoning told trustees.
      Annual rental fees are $40/unit, and for building over six units, there is a $150 flat fee and a fee of $15 per unit.
      The goal of the rental registration program is to help ensure a clean, safe and sanitary environment for all rental units in the township, Beniston said.
      According to a home rule resolution, all rental properties registered in Boardman Township are subject to inspection, and in addition, rental unit maintenance standards have been established.
      A rental inspection list is available by contacting the Planning/Zoning Department.
      Lukas Darling serves as Boardman Townships certified property maintenance and housing inspector.
  Escape Boardman Hotel Provides Challenges, Can Build Teamwork, And Most Of All, Is A Lot Of Fun  
  January 16, 2020 Edition  
     BY JOHN A. DARNELL JR.
      associate editor
      Three years ago, Nancy Smith opened a 790 sq-ft ‘escape room’ at Glenwood Ave. and Glendale Ave. Known as Escape Boardman, the business has attracted upwards of 12,000 visitors since that time.
      So popular is the business that Smith and four associates, Ivan Bosnjak, Joe Terlecky, Don Hepler and Jeff Humphrey, have decided to open a second escape business, the Escape Boardman Hotel, encompassing 3,000 sq-ft. of space at the Southern Park Mall.
      While Escape Boardman at Glenwood and Glendale provides visitors with two different challenges (escape rooms), the new facility, when fully completed, will offer five different challenges (escape rooms), as well as a banquet room, suitable for birthday parties, and small group gatherings.
      The Escape Boardman Hotel, when fully completed, will offer challenges in a virtual reality room, an ‘insane asylum,’ an Annebelle room that Smith notes will feature “another dimension,” a car wreck room and an ‘upside down’ room. Currently only the virtual reality and insane asylum room are open. The virtual reality room is especially unique, in that it can provide up to seven different challenges, all revolving around different themes, such as “The Prison,” “Sanctum,” “Mission Sigma,” “Christmas,” Cyberpunk,” “House of Fear” and “Signal Lost.” The Annebelle room plays off a theme of Annabelle – the cursed ‘possessed’ doll that was brought to ‘life’ in a movie.
      The escape hotel at the Southern Park Mall is the second entertainment venue that will be at the mall since the Washington Prime Group announced a $30 million renovation plan at the shopping center.
      Scheduled to open later this year is the Steel Valley Brew Works, put together by Stone Fruit Coffee owner and operator Joshua Langenheim, that will offer a huge selection of local craft beers, specialty coffee, baked goods and a state-of-the-art coffee roasting facility.
      Escape rooms are a phenomenon that have been growing throughout the world. Whether played by teenagers, adults or people in team-building programs, the escape room is a perfect way to test your wits in a race against time. The concept is simple---for anyone who hasn’t experienced an escape room, a group of people are locked into a room and have 60 minutes to find the way out.
      With different themes, intriguing challenges and rooms that give you the feeling that you are actually part of a video game, the escape rooms are a perfect way to spend an hour with friends, testing teamwork capabilities, wit and intuition and last but not least, the amount of fun you can have by playing.
      “Simple… but not too simple. To escape the room, the group must face the daunting task of solving different puzzles and find different clues that are linked, one to the other. By doing this, the group can eventually find the key that will open the door to freedom. If they can’t do it… well, better luck next time,” says Smith.
      “Just last week, we had a group from a local bank try one of our challenges,” Smith said, adding “It can help to build teamwork.”
      Visitors to the Escape Boardman Hotel at Southern Park enter into a ‘hotel’ foyer to register. There they are greeted by Annebelle and provided a short video explaining the challenge they will face.
      For example, when registering for the Insane Asylum, visitors are given this challenge:
      “As an intern at Smith’s Insane Asylum, you discover the patient they are using an experimental drug on is your brother Sam.
      “You contact your friends to help you find the antidote and free him from this dark, psychotic place! As luck would have it, a storms hits right as you give your friends access to get into the building. Some of them are caught and trapped by the evil doctor while the rest of you run and hide. You overhear the doctor state that he will return in one hour and then the experiments on your brother and the intruders will begin! Can you rescue your friends, find the antidote to save your brother and escape before the doctor returns? You have one hour to achieve this or you and your friends may meet the same fate as Sam!”
      Groups entering each escape room are watched by a ‘game monitor,’ who, if problems develop in attempting to find an escape, will provide additional clues to patrons.
      To date, more than 5000 feet of electrical wiring has been installed at the Escape Boardman Hotel to accommodate all the challenges visitors may face.
      “We seen all types of groups enter our escape rooms in the past three years,” Smith notes, saying school groups, high school athletic teams, birthday party groups and bachelorette groups have experienced the challenges.
      “We’ve even had three wedding proposals, where we had to change a few things up, so an engagement ring could be found during the challenge,” Smith said.
      Smith, Bosnjak, Terlecky, Hepler and Humphrey, each provides their input into the creation of the challenges that are offered to patrons.
      “We have all been amazed at the different groups who have participated and enjoyed our escape rooms,” Smith said, adding “Once they figured everything out.”
      To book a room, or to obtain additional information, call 330-707-4660, or check the Escape Boardman website.
     
      PICTURED: THE LOBBY AT THE ESCAPE BOARDMAN HOTEL at the Southern Park Mall is overseen by Annebelle, a ‘possessed’ doll perched atop a piano. Among five escape rooms planned at the hotel, is one named after the doll.
  Police To Get New Armored Vehicle  
  Trustees Approve Entertainment District For Southern Park Mall:   January 9, 2020 Edition  
     “We ask our officers to do things that are inherently dangerous. Giving them the proper protection while they carry out those tasks directly impacts on their safety and that of our community.”
      BY JOHN A. DARNELL JR.
      associate editor
      Meeting last week, Boardman Trustees approved the purchase of a $225,000 protective armored police vehicle.
      Funds for the purchase will come from the Law Enforcement Trust Fund (monies seized as illegal assets from criminals, often those involved in illegal drug sales).
      Currently the local police department’s Narcotics Enforcement Unit (NEU) deploys a rebuilt, 1998 Brinks truck during its raids (upwards of 50 per year). Sgt. Mike Hughes leads the NEU.
      The new armored vehicle, the ‘BearCat,’ will be purchased from Lenco Armored Vehicles, of Pittsfield, Mass.
      Lenco Armored Vehicles is the leading designer and manufacturer of armored police vehicles for law enforcement agencies and police and sheriff’s department SWAT teams. Lenco also manufactures armored military vehicles for international police forces, the US Army, US Navy, US Air Force and US Marines. They are also a supplier to the US Department of Defense, Department of State, Department of Energy, FBI and other high-profile government agencies.
      Since 1981 Lenco has produced over 6,000 vehicles in over 40 countries around the world.
      The BearCat vehicle provides complete armored protection from virtually any weapon that civilian law enforcement may face in the United States. In addition to protecting law enforcement officers, it is often used in an evacuation role to move civilians to safety. It features an open floor layout with blast-resistant seats accommodating up to 12 outfitted law enforcement personnel. The BearCat is extremely maneuverable and can safely reach highway speeds and operate on roadways in a safe manner. The vehicle has a high ground clearance, off-road performance, and superior maneuverability.
      “We ask our officers to do things that are inherently dangerous. Giving them the proper protection while they carry out those tasks directly impacts on their safety and that of our nity,” Boardman Police Chief Todd Werth said.
      In another matter, Trustees Larry Moliterno, Brad Calhoun and Tom Costello unanimously approved the creation of a Community Entertainment District (CED) for the Southern Park Mall. The measure must also gain approval of the Mahoning County Commissioners. If approved, a CED will allow an additional five liquor permits for businesses at the mall, and enhance Washington Prime Group’s efforts to redevelop the site.
      Trustees adopted a resolution for $25,000 for hire Youngstown-based CT Consultants to provide engineering and construction management services for the West Huntington Dr. drainage project. That project seeks to mitigate surface water issues. Its $250,000 cost is being funded by an Ohio Public Works Commission emergency grant.
      Trustees also endorsed two liquor permit transfers---one from Bruno’s Restaurant, 1984 Boardman-Poland Rd. to VIP 1 Group LLC, at 1984 Boardman-Poland Rd.; and a second for Rite Aid, from 3032 Mahoning Rd., Canton, Oh. to Rite Aid, 307 Boardman-Canfield Rd.
      Following an executive session, Trustees approved appointments to several zoning boards.
      Nancy Terlesky was appointed to the Zoning Commission for the term Jan. 1, 2020 to Dec. 31, 20424.
      Brian Racz was appointed to the Zoning Board of Appeals for the term for the term Jan. 1, 2020 to Dec. 2024; and Bill Harris was appointed to the Board of Appeals as an alternate for calendar year 2020.
      Appointed to the Site Plan Review Board for terms from Jan. 1, 2020 to Dec. 31, 2022 were Edwin Beach and Kedar Bhide.
      The Board of Trustees announced they will conduct regular meetings in calendar year 2020 on the second and fourth Monday of each month, unless otherwise adjusted by public notice. All meetings will be held at 5:30 p.m. at the Boardman Township Government Center, 8299 Market St., with the first meeting of 2020 set for Jan. 13.
  D.J. Durkin Back In The Saddle Lands Post With Ole Miss Rebels  
  January 9, 2020 Edition  
D J Durkin
     OXFORD, MISSISSIPPI---Ole Miss head football coach Lane Kiffin continues to assemble his first Rebel staff, announcing last week the hiring of Assistant Coach D.J. Durkin, son of Mr. and Mrs. Dan Durkin, of Boardman.
      Durkin is a former national recruiter of the year in addition to helping lead highly-ranked defenses, during his previous collegiate coaching stints.
      Durkin, who spent this season as a consultant for the Atlanta Falcons, brings a wealth of experience, particularly on the defensive side of the ball, where he helped spearhead successful units at Michigan and Florida, among other stops.
      Besides his experience on the field, Durkin has been equally accomplished on the recruiting trail. Durkin, Rivals’ Recruiter of the Year in 2012, has helped ink seven top-25 classes, including five which ranked in the top 10. During his time with the Gators, Durkin helped land four straight top-11 recruiting classes and nine five-star prospects.
      Durkin served as head coach at Maryland for the 2016 and 2017 seasons. He doubled the Terrapins’ win total during his first season at the helm and excelled on the recruiting trail, bringing in consecutive top-30 signing classes for the first time in program history during his two seasons in College Park.
      During his first season in College Park, Durkin led the Terps to a 4-0 start, including five wins in their first seven games. After falling in three straight games to nationally-ranked teams, Maryland defeated Rutgers, 31-13, in its season finale to earn a berth in the Quick Lane Bowl.
      Prior to Maryland, Durkin served as the defensive coordinator and linebackers coach at Michigan, leading a nationally-renowned defensive unit that ranked fourth in the country. Under Durkin, the Wolverines limited opponents to 17.2 points per game in 2015, in addition to shutting out three consecutive opponents – the longest such streak at Michigan in 35 years.
      Durkin’s immediate impact in Ann Arbor was also displayed in player development. Michigan had nine defensive All-Big Ten honorees, including a pair of first-team defensive backs: Jourdan Lewis and Jabrill Peppers. In addition, three Wolverines (Ryan Glasgow, Lewis and Peppers,) were named semifinalists for national defensive awards in 2015.
      As the defensive coordinator at Florida from 2013-14, Durkin led the Gators to consecutive top-15 rankings in total defense with the 15th-best mark in the country in 2014 (329.0 ypg) and the eighth-best (314.2 ypg) in 2013. Florida’s 2014 team finished the year ranked in the top 10 in the nation in yards allowed per play (4.45), yards allowed per rush attempt (3.16) and yards allowed per pass attempt (5.9).
      In Durkin’s first season as defensive coordinator, Florida finished first in the SEC and seventh in the country in pass defense (171.8 yards per game). The Gators were sixth nationally in first downs allowed (16.1 per game) and 15th in scoring defense (21.1 points per game), while allowing only 27 touchdowns, the sixth fewest in the nation in 2013.
      Prior to Florida, Durkin spent three seasons at Stanford coaching defensive ends and special teams. Under Durkin’s tutelage, Stanford’s defensive ends helped the Cardinal rank 11th nationally in sacks per game in 2007 and 2009. Durkin also helped the Cardinal bring in their highest ranked recruiting class in eight years in 2009.
      As a player, Durkin starred at Bowling Green as a starter at defensive end and outside linebacker from 1997-2000. He led the team in sacks in 1998 and served as a team captain for two seasons. Durkin was honored with numerous team awards, including the Ken Schoeni Award for character and toughness, the Carlos Jackson Award personifying the values of a student-athlete and the Leadership Award. He earned his bachelor’s degree in business marketing from Bowling Green in 2001 and his master’s degree in educational administration and supervision in 2004.
      “We received consistently strong feedback about Coach Durkin’s strong character and work ethic and his positive impact on the communities and institutions where he was previously employed,” Ole Miss athletic director Keith Carter said in a statement. “Once we had the chance to spend time with Coach Durkin, we were even more convinced that he is exactly the type of accomplished coach with strong football credentials who is also a proud and committed family man that will make him a great addition to our new staff.”
      Durkin attended Boardman High School where he was an all-conference and all-Northeast Ohio grid selection. A three-year letterman, Durkin capped off his football career at BHS on a 10-3 team that won the Steel Valley Comference championship and made it to the state playoff semifinals. Upon graduation in 1996 he entered BGSU on a full football scholarship.
  After 134 Days In Jail, Olsen Freed On Bond In Exchange For Guilty Plea On Charge Of Threatening Federal Law Enforcement Officer  
  Faces Sentencing Hearing On Apr. 14:   January 2, 2020 Edition  
     BY JOHN A. DARNELL JR.
      associate editor
      An 18-year-old who had been jailed since Aug. 7 on a charge of threatening a federal law enforcement officer was set free two days before Christmas in a plea agreement reached between federal prosecutors and his lawyer, Atty. J. Gerald Ingram, of Boardman.
      Justin Olsen, of 465 Presidential Ct., entered a plea of guilty to one count of threatening a federal law enforcement officer, and a second charge was dismissed in exchange for the guilty plea. Olsen initially pled not guilty.
      After spending 134 days in the Mahoning County Jail, Olsen was set free on a $20,000 recognizance bond and next faces a sentencing hearing in a Cleveland federal court on Apr. 14.
      Olsen, who graduated from Boardman High School last spring where he maintained a 3.8 gpa, turned 18-years-old on May 17. He first came to the attention of federal law enforcement officials in February, when FBI agents in Anchorage, Alaska learned someone on a website called iFunny was posting about mass shootings, and for example, making posts that included a picture of a man firing machine guns, that included a caption “Me walking into the nearest Planned Parenthood,” as well as a picture of an explosion with a caption “Me thanking God they put a gay bar next to a Planned Parenthood.” Another post said “shoot every federal agent on site.”
      Olsen was identified by federal law enforcement officials as the person who made the posts---and then mass shootings happened in El Paso Texas and Dayton, Ohio.
      Acting in union with the recommendation of Boardman Court Prosecutor Atty. Michael McBride, Olsen was arrested and jailed on two counts of telephone harassment. Those charges were later dropped in lieu of the federal charges.
      Olsen had no disciplinary record while attending Boardman High School, where he was a member of the school’s tennis team and instrumental music program. He also had no court record.
      Asked if his client had been “criminalized” after spending more than four months in jail, Atty. Ingram replied, “He has matured.”
      National Public Radio
      Olsen’s arrest was a topic on a National Public Radio (NPR) program that focused on his so-called ‘extremist views.’
      “Some told us [Olsen] said extremist and sometimes violent things at school,” NPR reported.
      An NPR reporter said a friend of Olsen’s was interviewed and claimed he couldn’t believe Justin was “posting all this stuff...while sitting there with his friends and classmates.”
      The friend claimed that in a Boardman High School class about human geography, students were asked to do a presentation about religion, and Olsen chose a topic on Islam.
      According to the NPR report, Olsen’s presentation included a caricature of the Islam prophet Muhammad (portrayed as a loser) and a caricature of Jesus Christ (portrayed as a “white jock with a strong chin and a big, bulging crotch.”).
      “Justin is laughing while doing this,” the NPR story claimed.
      NPR said it spoke with another student in the class, Sophia McGee, who said “I was covering my mouth because...it was just disgusting.”
      McGee told NPR she thought the teacher, identified as Kyle Sheehan, should have stopped Olsen’s presentation...“but the teacher just let it go...just sat there.”
      Another student, identified as Pranav Padmanabhan, told NPR that he and Olsen used to sit together at lunch.
      “Pranav remembers Justin had this Sicilian cross on his backpack, a symbol of the Crusades, which he says Justin was obsessed with. And, even though Pranav was openly gay, Justin was a homophobic and would say gay people are degenerates,” according to NPR reporter Garsd Garcia, who added when Pranav and other students heard Olsen talking about joining the military and killing people (like Muslims), “That was the one where we were like Justin, you can’t say that.”
      Pranav told NPR he didn’t take Olsen’s comments to teachers or school administrators, “something he now regrets.”
      NPR says that now in college, Pranav wrote a letter to Boardman High School Principal Cindy Fernback and Superintendent of Schools Tim Saxton.
      According to NPR, the letter says Pranav spent a lot of time with Olsen and “in hindsight, there were a lot of warning signs that seemed minor at the time, but could have helped prevent this, including him making offensive comments and troubling memes.”
      Garcia said that Principal Fernback responded to Pranav, saying she had been “reflecting” and noted the high school Resource Officer, a full-time policeman, “would explore how to deal with potential threats in the future, and attend an FBI seminar on how to recognize these threats.” Fernback, according to NPR, said she was “open to the idea of introducing the term ‘radicalization’ in the school” and stressed the importance of making sure students tell an adult when they see something that bothers them.”
      According to NPR, Boardman Local School System’s communications coordinator, Amy Radinovic, responded to concerns expressed by McGee and Padmanabhan.
      “Many class discussions covered controversial topics, and both ends of the political spectrum were represented. There were students who were as far left in their political and social views as one can be, labeled by more moderate students as ‘socialists.’ Conversely, there were students as far right as one can be, those who use the talking points of the far right religious conservative affiliation,” NPR says that Radinovic responded. She also noted that the School Resource Officer had already attended FBI training.
      Motion To Suppress
      In granting Justin Olsen’s release from jail, Magistrate George Limbert did not rule on defense counsel’s motion to suppress evidence seized from the home Oakridge Dr. home of Justin Olsen’s father, Eric.
      That motion, penned by Atty. Ingram and his law partner and son, Atty. Ryan Ingram, sought to have the evidence that was seized, including 25 guns and 10,000 rounds of ammunition, tossed out of court.
      “The search warrant was issued based upon information obtained during an illegal, ‘protective sweep’ of [Mr. Olsen’s] residence, and violated a constitutional prohibition against unreasonable searches and seizures,” the motion to suppress said.
      On Aug. 7, law enforcement officials, including Boardman police and the FBI, executed a search warrant at Olsen’s mother’s home on Presidential Ct. where no weapons were located. While there, it was learned that Justin had recently moved to his father’s residence on Oakridge Dr.
      They immediately went to the father’s home and observed Justin Olsen exiting the home. He was placed under arrest without incident.
      According to Boardman Police Officer William Woods, Olsen agreed to speak with authorities, admitting he created a ‘Discord...page’ and he did post the comment about shooting federal agents.
      Olsen admitted making several posts, “but all of this was a joke, for fun, and the posts were on his ‘shit account,’” Officer Woods said.
      “He did not flee, resist or threaten officers and was otherwise polite and courteous,” Olsen’s counsel said. During his arrest, Olsen gave permission to law enforcement to search his car and bedroom. While in the home, law enforcement officials “observed ammunition, armored vests and a gun safe in the closet of Eric Olsen,” Attys. Ingram said, adding the teenager’s father, Eric, claimed that his son did not have access to the weaponry.
      “Not a single officer or agent appeared threatened, uneasy or in a state of concern. Their demeanor can only be characterized as lighthearted and jovial,” said the motion to suppress.
      In seeking to dismiss evidence, defense counsel said “in the instant case to pass constitutional scrutiny, the government must be able to articulate facts that would warrant a reasonably prudent officer to believe that the area to be swept harbored an individual posing a danger to those on the scene...
      “Accordingly, the subsequent search of Oakridge Dr. violated the prohibition against unreasonable searches and seizures, as set for in the Fourth Amendment of the constitution,” defense counsel for Olsen alleged.
      According to court documents, the prosecution countered Atty. Ingram’s assertions, saying “Immediately upon entering the house, law enforcement observed, in plain view, a large amount of .223 caliber ammunition on the stairs leading up to the second floor bedrooms... “Based on the potential of firearms in the house, and their uncertainty about who could be in the home, they decided to conduct a
      protective sweep of the residence for officer safety.”
      A charge of threatening a federal law enforcement official carries a maximum penalty of up to ten years in jail.
     
  9-Year-Old Boy Arrested On Felony Inducing Panic Charge Was Watching Television Program Where An Actor Had ‘Guns For His Hands’  
  Center Intermediate School Student Felt It Was A ‘Super Power’:   January 2, 2020 Edition  
      Boardman police arrested a 9-year-old boy at Center Intermediate School on Dec. 19 on a felony-2 charge of inducing panic.
      According to School Resource Officer Matthew Sell, the 4-4, 89-lb. lad was in an art class taught by Mrs. Lori Szoke when the teacher heard him blurt out “I’m going to shoot up the school.”
      According to Officer Sell, the teach “defused the situation and kept the other, nearly 25 students from losing control.”
      Upon learning of the situation, the school’s assistant principal, Nicholas Hewko, brought the 9-year-old into his office where the boy said he had been watching a television show and a character had guns for his hands.
      “[The student] felt it was a super power,” Officer Sell reported.
      Two little girls who were at a classroom table with the boy provided written statements where they claimed the boy stated he had access to guns and would bring them to school and shoot people, according to the School Resource Officer, who added “The school spoke to [the boy] again and this time he admitted to making the statements about shooting people, but denied saying he was going to shoot the school principal.”
      The boy was booked on a felony-2 charge of inducing panic in front of his mother. When she asked her child if he made the statements, “he said he was only joking,” Officer Sell said.
      Police indicated the matter would be forwarded to the juvenile court system and the boy could face school sanctions.
  MALL REDEVELOPMENT    
  •A New Town Center Will Be Created:   December 12, 2019 Edition  
     Washington Prime Group held a press
      conference last week highlighting redevelopment efforts at the Southern Park Mall. The
      $30 million project will create a town center combining entertainment as well as shopping venues. According to Matt Jurkowitz,
      vice president of development for Washington Prime, the project is the first of its kind for the company that operates malls across America.
      Redevelopment costs will be offset by
      public-private partnerships, and will
      include the creation of an entertainment
      district and a four-acre greenspace, ‘DeBartolo Commons,’ named in honor of the mall’s
      founder, Edward J. DeBartolo Sr.
     
      •Washington Prime Group plans to invest up to $30M into Southern Park Mall’s redevelopment over the next several years, generating an ongoing, positive economic impact for Boardman from property, sales and income taxes
       •Washington Prime Group seeks support from local government partners to offset costs associated with non-revenue-generating investments, including site costs relating to cleanup of the former Sears site, site work relating to the new DeBartolo Commons greenspace and sports fields, and construction of new storm water facilities that will alleviate potential flooding
       •DeBartolo Commons greenspace and sports fields given priority use by Boardman Local Schools
       •Proposed walking and bike path to connect DeBartolo Commons, Southern Park Mall to Boardman Park and beyond, as key part of Township’s Active Transportation Plan
       •Washington Prime Group to host Coffee with the Community on Friday, December 13 at Southern Park Mall to provide forum for community members to ask questions regarding the Southern Park Mall redevelopment project and incentives package
     
      Washington Prime Group Inc. (NYSE: WPG), owner of Southern Park Mall, has received support from Boardman Trustees and the Western Reserve Port Authority to access economic development tools that will enable the company to expand the scope of redevelopment efforts at Southern Park Mall, further enhancing the site as the hub of retail, dining, entertainment and recreational sports in the area.
      Boardman Local Schools and Mahoning County officials have separately agreed to vote soon on separate incentives that would benefit the Southern Park Mall redevelopment project.
      Washington Prime Group expects investments of $30 million or more to be made at the Southern Park Mall site in the next few years. Through the economic development request, the company is seeking to leverage commonly-used economic development tools to enable Washington Prime Group to offset up to $6 million in costs relating to redevelopment and renovation activities at Southern Park Mall.
      The plan calls for Washington Prime Group to fund 100 per cent of its project costs up front, and to be reimbursed a portion of its costs over time through a series of programs that allow the company to:
       •Work with partners at the Western Reserve Port Authority to save on sales tax paid on construction materials;
       •Work with Mahoning County officials, with the support of the County Commissioners, Boardman Township and Boardman Local Schools, to establish a program allowing Washington Prime Group to keep a portion of new real estate taxes generated from the newly created property value; and
       •Work with Boardman Township, Mahoning County and other local partners to put programs in place to allow Washington Prime Group to impose, for a limited time, new taxes on the Southern Park Mall site, which, once collected, will be shared with the Company.
      Importantly, no local governmental agency, specifically including Boardman Local Schools, is being asked to forego a single dollar of budgeted revenue through the proposed incentives package. Only new taxes generated from new development would be impacted, and only for a limited period of time.
      In addition, no resident in Boardman or Mahoning County will be asked to pay a single dollar of new property tax as a result of an approval of the proposed incentives package.
      Improvements made with the support of the proposed incentives package will provide numerous benefits to the Boardman community, including:
       •First class retail and entertainment venue that will attract businesses and solidify and expand jobs at Southern Park Mall;
       •Expanded real estate property, sales and income tax bases;
       •First class greenspace – DeBartolo Commons – built to host sporting and other public events throughout the year;
       •Priority use of DeBartolo Commons greenspace and sports fields by Boardman Local Schools for athletic team practices and other school events; and
       •Secondary use of DeBartolo Commons greenspace and sports fields by interested local youth soccer and sports organizations;
       •Construction of a hike and bike path across the Southern Park Mall property that connects DeBartolo Commons to Boardman Park and eventually most residential neighborhoods south of 224 – both East and West of Market Street; and
       •Construction of major new storm water facilities on the Southern Park Mall property that will relieve the potential for flooding downstream in Boardman Township south of the mall property.
      As part of the redevelopment effort, Southern Park Mall will invest in enhanced security and safety measures in order to provide an enjoyable and safe environment for family-friendly shopping, dining, entertainment, recreational sports, and events and activities throughout the year. Best-in-class security measures will be enforced during daytime and evening hours, seven days a week, as part of Southern Park Mall’s ongoing commitment to safety.
      Washington Prime Group is proud to partner in executing this project with local tradespeople affiliated with Ironworkers Local 207, LIUNA Local 125, Roofers Local 71, Carpenters Local 171, Concrete Finishers Local 179, Electrical Workers Local 64, Sprinkler Fitters Local 669, Sheet Metal Workers Local 33, Operating Engineers Local 66, Plumbers & Steamfitters Local 396, and Cement Masons & Plasterers Local 179.
      The redevelopment of the former Sears site at Southern Park Mall is expected to open in the fall of 2020 during a community event celebrating the mall’s 50th Anniversary. This project’s centerpiece, DeBartolo Commons, is named in honor of, and will serve to commemorate the legacy of, Edward J. DeBartolo, Sr. and his family. Learn more at www.debartolocommons.com.
      The demolition of the former Sears building remains on schedule, with the site expected to be cleared by year end. Ongoing construction is not expected to impact guests visiting Southern Park Mall.
      As previously announced, Steel Valley Brew Works will overlook and connect to DeBartolo Commons. Washington Prime Group expects to announce additional entertainment anchors in the near future, including an indoor golf and entertainment venue and a popular, local restaurant which are expected to occupy distinct spaces with in approximately 37,000 SF of renovated space at Southern Park Mall. The redevelopment project benefits existing tenants and is expected to generate continued strong future leasing demand. Tenants at Southern Park Mall offer hundreds of jobs and are equally committed to the Boardman area.
      Washington Prime Group will host a Coffee with the Community event on Friday, December 13 at Southern Park Mall from 11:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. Community members are invited to ask questions about the proposed incentives package and share recommendations for the redevelopment project.
      “This is a substantial boost to our community and a testament that we are a vibrant township...”
      In brief remarks last week at a press conference highlighting redevelopment efforts at the Southern Park Mall, Boardman Local School Board President Jeff Barone said he spoke for his entire board noting “We are thankful and excited by the Washington Prime Group plan to invest $30 million into the mall.
      “This is a substantial boost to our community and a testament that we are a vibrant township and can be a leading example of the future mall concept as a true community center.
      “I am enthused by the leap of faith that Washington Prime, as well as the DeBartolo family is taking. For once, it seems, it is not Columbus, Cincinnati or Cleveland, rather the Mahoning Valley and Boardman.”
      Barone noted tax abatements will have no negative impact on Boardman Local School funding.
      “The abatement will be on new tax dollars that will be generated within renovated areas, and the abatement will be just for 15 years,” Barone said, indicating after that span, additional dollars will come to the schools.
  Boardman School Forecast  
  FY 2020 Revenues: $48.886 Million FY 2020 Expenditures: $46.82 Million :   December 5, 2019 Edition  
     The Ohio Department of Education requires school district to file five-year forecasts twice a year. Meeting in November, the Boardman Board of Education approved the local system’s current five-year forecast, portions of which are printed below.
     
      The State Budget represents 28% of district revenues, (more than $10 million) which means it is a significant area of risk to revenue. The future risk comes in FY22 and beyond if the state economy worsens, or if the funding formula in future state budgets reduce funding to the Boardman Local School District. There are two future State Biennium Budgets covering the period from FY22-23 and FY24-25 in this forecast. Future uncertainty in both the state foundation funding formula and the state’s economy makes this area an elevated risk to district funding long range through FY24. The Boardman Local School District projects state funding to be in-line with current estimates through FY24 which are conservative and should be close to whatever the state approves for the FY22-23 biennium budget.
      The district has three levies that will expire during this five year forecast period---A 5.9 and 6.0 mill current expense levies expiring in 2021 and another 5.9 mill levy expiring in 2023. All of these levies are critical and are necessary to keep the district financially healthy long term. While all these levies have been renewed before; should either fail there will be serious consequences for the district’s financial stability.
      HB166 continues the many provisions contained in prior state biennium budgets that will continue to draw funds away from the Boardman Local School district through continuing school choice programs such as College Credit Plus, [so-called] community schools and increases in per pupil education scholarship amounts deducted from state aid in the 2020-21 school years, even though funding for Boardman Local School District students was not increased to the district for this biennium budget. College Credit Plus costs continue to increase as this program becomes more understood. These are examples of new choice programs that increase with each biennium budget cost the Boardman Local School District money. Expansion or creation of programs such as these exposes the district to new expenditures that are not currently in the forecast.
      Labor relations in the Boardman district have been amicable with all parties working for the best interest of students and realizing the resource challenges the district faces.
      Supplemental Funding for Student Wellness and Success (Restricted Fund 467)---Nearly all of the new funding for K-12 public education in the FY20-21 Executive Budget is provided through a formula allocating [subsidies] based upon each district’s percentage of students in households at or below 185% of the Federal Poverty Level (FPL) and the total number of students enrolled in each district. The Boardmam Local School District is estimated to receive $410,614 in FY20 and $578,326 in FY21. Money will be received twice each year in October and February. These dollars are to be deposited in a Special Revenue Fund 467 and are restricted to expenses that follow a plan developed in coordination with one of the approved community partner organizations approved in HB166 that include the following:
       •Student Wellness and Success Initiatives
       •Mental health services
       •Services for homeless youth
       •Services for child welfare involved youth
      Community liaisons
       •Physical health care services
       •Mentoring programs
       •Family engagement and support services
       •City Connects programming
       •Professional development regarding the provision of trauma-informed care
       •Professional development regarding cultural competence
       •Student services provided prior to or after the regularly scheduled school day or any time school is not in session
      Casino Revenue: On November 3, 2009 Ohio voters passed the Ohio casino ballot issue...The state indicated recently that revenues from casinos are not growing robustly as originally predicted but are still growing slowly as the economy has improved. In FY 20-24, the Boardman Local School Treasurer Nicholas Ciarniello estimates revenue from casinos will be about $53.75/student.
      Wages in the Boardman Local School District: Negotiations with bargaining unit members was completed in summer 2017 resulting in a three year agreement that includes a base increases of 1% and a 1% stipend for FY18, a 2% base increase for FY19 and FY20. Step and training increases are included for FY20-24
       •STRS/SERS will increase as wages increase. As required by law the BOE pays 14% of all employee wages to STRS or SERS. In addition, the district pays SERS surcharge for classified staff that does not make a set amount for retirement purposes.
       •Insurance: The district is estimating insurance based on district caps in the labor agreements at $6.5 million for FY19, and $6.69 million for FY20. A 3.0% increase for each year FY21 - FY24, is forecasted for planning purposes which reflects trend and the likely increase in health care costs as a result of PPACA [Patient Protection and Affordable Care Act. The PPACA, commonly called Obamacare or the Affordable Care Act (ACA), is a United States federal statute signed into law on March 23, 2010. This is based on the current employee census and claims data.
      Fiscal Facts
       •FY 2020 cost of base wages: $23,917,263
       •Total cost of Fringe Benefits: $11,061,446
      General Fund Monies 
       •Total Revenues-----2020: $48,885,864
        2021: $49,167,642
       •Total Expenditures-2020: $46,820,373
           2021: $49,246,517
  Surgical Center At Southwoods Earns Pinnacle Of Excellence Designation  
  November 28, 2019 Edition  
     Southwoods Health is pleased to announce The Surgical Hospital at Southwoods, 7630 Southern Blvd., has earned the 2019 Pinnacle of Excellence Award and the 2019 Guardian of Excellence Award from Press Ganey. Southwoods received the recognition for providing a consistently excellent patient experience.
      The Pinnacle of Excellence Award recognizes top-performing clients from health care organizations nationwide on the basis of extraordinary achievement and maintaining consistently high levels of excellence for at least three consecutive years.
      The Guardian of Excellence Award is a nationally-recognized symbol of achievement in health care. Presented annually, the award honors organizations who consistently sustained performance in the top 5% for each reporting period during the course of one year. Southwoods has received this award every year since its inception in 2013.
      Southwoods is one of three hospitals in Ohio to receive the Pinnacle of Excellence Award, one of thirteen to receive the Guardian of Excellence Award, and one of only two to receive both awards.
      According to Ed Muransky, chief executive officer at Southwoods, the awards represent an important recognition from the industry’s leader in measuring, understanding and improving the delivery of care.
      “These awards reflect our staff’s unwavering commitment to improving the safety, quality and experience of patient care,” Muransky said, adding “They work diligently every day to perfect the patient experience, and I’m proud of their hard work and dedication.”
      Southwoods Health is the region’s fastest growing health care system and is locally owned and operated by the Muransky family and area physicians.
      It includes The Surgical Hospital at Southwoods, an acute care hospital in Boardman renowned for providing a superior patient experience and consistently ranking at the top of national patient satisfaction and quality of care surveys.
      The hospital continues to expand its scope of services, which includes inpatient, outpatient and robotic-assisted surgery, as well as endoscopy services. Southwoods Health also provides an expanding array of ancillary health services at locations throughout the Valley – all of which are certified to meet Southwoods’ high operational standards. These locations include: Southwoods Imaging, offering the most technologically advanced diagnostic imaging services in the area; Southwoods Pain & Spine Center, offering services to treat chronic pain and the region’s most advanced spine surgery program; Southwoods Sleep Centers, diagnosing and treating sleep disorders; Southwoods Physician Services, a multi-specialty physician group; and Southwoods Express Care, providing same day, walk-in non-emergent services.
  SOUTHERN PARK MALL  
  November 21, 2019 Edition  
     Steel Valley Brew Works to offer craft beer and specialty coffee
     
      Announcement of neighbors to Steel Valley Brew Works to follow in near future, and
      include an indoor golf entertainment center, additional entertainment and dining offerings
     
      Demolition of former Sears remains on pace, to be replaced by DeBartolo Commons, a new four-acre athletic and entertainment green space and event venue
     
       COLUMBUS, OH.---Washington Prime Group Inc. (NYSE: WPG) has announced that Steel Valley Brew Works, a new, local brew and entertainment venue, will be one of several entertainment concepts to anchor redevelopment efforts at Southern Park Mall.
      Steel Valley Brew Works will overlook and connect to the 4-acre DeBartolo Commons, an outdoor athletic and entertainment green space and event venue that is expected to be complete during the second half of 2020. As previously announced, DeBartolo Commons will replace the former Sears location.
      Steel Valley Brew Works is a new-to-market concept of Joshua Langenheim, of Boardman, who is owner and operator of StoneFruit Coffee.
      Building on its expertise with coffee, Steel Valley Brew Works will occupy approximately 12,000 sq-ft of renovated space at Southern Park Mall, offering a huge selection of local craft beers, specialty coffee, baked goods, and a state-of-the-art coffee roasting facility. Steel Valley Brew Works will also feature indoor bocce courts, billiards, pinball, foosball, and other leisure games, providing guests an experience that can’t be found elsewhere in the area. In addition, Steel Valley Brew Works plans to periodically partner with food truck operators to bring the best local food trucks to its Southern Park Mall location.
      Joshua Langenheim, owner and operator of Steel Valley Brew Works and StoneFruit Coffee Company stated: “I am elated at the chance to bring Steel Valley Brew Works to life. I hear far too often that ‘there is no opportunity in the Mahoning Valley.’ Contrary, what I’ve learned is that opportunity isn’t handed out, it’s created.” said Langenheim.
      Washington Prime Group expects to announce additional entertainment anchors in the near future, including an indoor golf and entertainment venue and a popular, local restaurant that are expected to occupy distinct spaces within approximately 37,000 sq-ft of renovated space at Southern Park.
      The demolition of the former Sears building remains on schedule, and is expected to be complete in mid-December. The demolition of the former Sears Auto Center location has been complete. Ongoing construction traffic is not expected to impact guests visiting Southern Park Mall.
      Steel Valley Brew Works and additional entertainment anchors are expected to significantly increase guest traffic, benefitting existing tenants and generating strong future leasing demand for retail, dining, and entertainment uses. Most recently, Youngstown Clothing Company, a high-quality, vintage-inspired graphic t-shirt and apparel line, opened its permanent location at Southern Park Mall and now offers favorite Youngstown apparel year round.
      The renovation of Southern Park Mall will coincide with its 50th Anniversary in 2020 and honor the legacy of Edward J. DeBartolo Sr. and the DeBartolo-York family. A transformation is underway to strengthen Southern Park as the hub of retail, dining and entertainment in the area.
      “With plans to invest millions of dollars into the town center over the next several years, the long term vision for Southern Park Mall is reflective of the community. Plans have been thoughtfully put together with the Boardman community and Trustees, surrounding communities, and existing tenants,” Kim Green, vice-president of investor relations and corporate communication of WPG said.
  Full-Time EMS Services Topic  
  Exploratory Committee Cites Need:   November 14, 2019 Edition  
     BY JOHN A. DARNELL JR.
      associate editor
      Boardman Township Trustees called a special meeting for Tues., Nov. 12 to review an evaluation report on the possibility of providing full-time emergency medical services (EMS) in the community, including projected funding needed for such a service.
      The consideration of establishing a full-time EMS service was made after concerns were expressed regarding the ability of a private ambulance company to deliver timely response to 9-1-1 calls to residents in the township.
      At certain times over the past year, Lanes Ambulance, that answers 9-1-1 calls for the township, has taken up to six minutes, or more, to answer a call. A memorandum of understanding between the ambulance company and the township calls for quicker response times.
      A summary of a report presented to township trustees notes “Current 9-1-1 response [by the Boardman Fire Department]...averages 4.5 minutes. The crew is equipped to provide basic life support and must transfer care to a transporting ambulance service.”
      The summary also suggests “There is an upward trend of EMS calls over recent years, that will exacerbate delays in 9-1-1 responses to our community.”
      Late last year, township trustees formed a ten-member committee to study the possibility of the Boardman Fire Department answering all 9-1-1 calls, including for residents and visitors to the township.
      As the summary report of the committee indicates, there are several issues to be considered, primarily costs associated with establishing a full-time EMS service.
      Upwards of $1.6 million to $1.8 million would be needed to start such a service, while revenue generated is estimated to be between $975,000 to $1.09 million, leaving a shortfall of some $700,000.
      As well, there are concerns an additional tax levy would be needed to start an EMS service; and another concern is billing for such a service. In other words, would Boardman taxpayers be willing to approve a tax hike, and also get billed if they receive an EMS service they already paid to create?
      According to a summary of the EMS report, there is a “need for having start-up revenues...and understanding what billing model will be pursued.
      “Those two factors will ultimately impact how this program moves forward for sustainability of the service.”
      The Committee’s Recommendation
      The ten-member EMS committee found “the issues facing Boardman are not unique, but are, in fact, part of a trend seen nationwide.
      “The issue of increased response times is being experienced in many municipalities. It is also reasonable to assume that the problem will get worse over time, given the increasing demand for EMS.”
      The committee suggested investigating partnerships that could be formed to provide EMS services, but also noted “There is no one recommendation that will eliminate all the issues faced in EMS...We believe this is not the end, but rather the beginning of an important community conversation.”
      The committee supported establishing EMS services to operate out of each of the three Boardman fire stations, while “acknowledging this model will require funding above and beyond the expected revenues generated by billings.”
      Currently
      According to the summary report, there are, on average, 12 calls for medical emergencies every day in Boardman Township, including 122 times a month where there or two or more medical emergencies happening simultaneously.
      Currently each of the Boardman fire stations are staffed with firefighters who are trained at various skill levels. All totaled the Boardman Fire department is staffed with 11 paramedics, two advanced EMTs, 15 basic EMTs and ten emergency medical responders.
      “The fire department arrives on the scene prior to the ambulance company nearly 50 per cent of the time.
      “During these critical minutes, BFD personnel begin to provide patient care with equipment [such as] an AED, medical and trauma supplies, oxygen, drug kits, IV supplies and intubation equipment.
      “The current compliment of EMS allows crews to initially stabilize a patient,” says the summary report.
      Members of the EMS Committee
      Members of Boardman Township’s Exploratory EMS Committee included Atty. Thomas Sanborn, Daniel Segool, assistant vice-president/Chemical Bank; Teresa Volsko, director of Respiratory Care, Transport and the Communications Center at Akron Children’s Hospital (ACH); Jeff Michaelenok, former partner, Cailor-Fleming Insurance; Maryann Forrester, BNS/RN, the EMS program coordinator at ACH; Amanda Lencyk, MSN/RN, trauma injury prevention and outreach coordinator at St. Elizabeth Hospital/Youngstown; Joseph Mistovich, chairperson and professor, Department of Health Professions, Youngstown State University; as well as Boardman Fire Chief Mark Pitzer, Boardman Police Chief Todd Werth and Boardman Township Administrator Jason Loree.
     
  Fire Officials Say Motel Failed To Comply With Court Order  
  Hearing Set For Nov. 18:   November 7, 2019 Edition  
     BY JOHN A. DARNELL JR.
      associate editor
      A hearing has been set for Mon., Nov. 18 to determine if the Wagon Wheel Motel, 7015 Market St., has complied with conditions mandated in a court agreement reached in October that has allowed the motel to continue to operate.
      A temporary restraining order issued on May 24 forced the motel to close due to insecure, unsafe and structurally defective conditions.
      The motel was reopened in October under the condition the owners, Akm and Nasrin Rahman, 29 Overhill Rd., and Chirag Enterprises, 1715 Tukey Foot Lane Rd., Akron, Oh., undertake a four-phase series of improvements on the property.
      The first phase, that was to be completed by Nov. 1, included removal of all temporary tarp, and plastic roof patches had to be replaced with compatible permanent patches.
      According to court filings, Boardman Fire Chief Mark Pitzer and Lt. Will Ferrando inspected the motel on Nov. 1 to determine if the repairs had been completed.
      “Ferrando and Chief Pitzer both determined that the defendants failed to comply with the conditions set forth [on] Oct. 7,” says a document filed by Atty. Chip Comstock, who added “[the motel] continues to violate the provisions of the Ohio Fire Code, which constitutes dangerous conditions (previously) set forth in citations...”
      Comstock asks that the court “issue an order causing the building, structure or premises to be repaired or demolished, and all dangerous conditions remedied...within 30 days.”
      The hearing will be held before Magistrate Dom DeLaurentis.
  New BPD Officers  
  November 7, 2019 Edition  
      MEETING LAST WEEK, BOARDMAN TRUSTEES hired two, new police officers. They are pictured receiving their oath of office from Fiscal Officer William Leicht (at right) and are Breanna Jones and Angelo Pasquale. Jones is 27-years-old, single, and lives in Boardman. She is a 2010 graduate of Boardman High School and a graduate of Youngstown State University. Jones has lived her entire life in the Boardman area. She joins the Boardman PD after serving as a full-time police officer with the Youngstown Police Department. Jones attended the YSU Police Academy and received her OPOTA certification in 2015. Pasquale is 27-years-old, single, and resides in Canfield. Pasquale graduated from Boardman High School in 2010. He attended Youngstown State University and graduated with a Bachelor of Science Degree in Criminal Justice in December, 2015. Pasquale also attended the YSU Police Academy and received his OPOTA certification in May 2014.
  CODE GIRL  
  Margaret Dilley Monitored Japanese Communications During And After World War II:   October 31, 2019 Edition  
Margaret Dilley
     Mon., Nov. 11, is Veteran’s Day, and couched behind a wall of secrecy for her services to her country is a Boardman native, Sara Margaret Dilley, now deceased, and a 1933 graduate of Boardman High School. She was born in Boardman in 1915, in a home that still stands today near Market St. and Stadium Dr., the daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Mark Dilley.
      To this day, members of her family, Peggy Entzi Yuhas, and niece Leslie Axelson, are trying to determine just what she did for her country, and they strongly believe she was a ‘Code Girl’ during and after World War II.
      Margaret Dilley left Boardman to attend Wooster College, where she was a Phi Beta Kappa graduate in 1937. The following year she was hired as an English and Latin teacher at Belleview High School, earning $1,100 a year, and left that job for a similar post at Poland Seminary High School, where she served until 1941, earning $1,500 a year.
      It was on Dec. 7, 1941 that Pearl Harbor was bombed and when the opportunity presented itself, Margaret entered the U.S. Navy Japanese Language School in Boulder, Col. in 1943.
      “I felt I should get involved,” Margaret said at a 50th union of the WAVES (Women Accepted for Voluntary Emergency Service) held in 1993.
      While in Boulder she applied for a commission in the United States Naval Reserve as a Japanese language student at the University of Colorado in Boulder.
      On Dec. 15, 1943, Margaret received her commission as an ensign in the Naval Reserve from Secretary of the Navy, Frank Knox, who cited her “special trust, patriotism and valor.”
      Prior to her appointment as an ensign, Margaret underwent an interview by Lt. G.K. Conover, officer in charge at the language school.
      Conover noted that Dilley had “prospective value as a naval reserve officer “with special reference to officer-like qualities” of self control, poise and friendliness.
      In Jan., 1945, Margaret was assigned to the Communication Annex of the U.S. Navy in Washington, D.C. where an ‘Officer’s Fitness Report’ dated Jan., 30, 1945 says she served as an intelligence officer, “well qualified in her specialty,” the Japanese language, and recommended that she be promoted for duty as a member “of the Japanese translating organization.”
      Margaret was then recommended for confidential duties in the Communications Intelligence Group “in work vital to the war effort of an extremely confidential nature.”
      For her work in that group, she was awarded the Navy Unit Commendation Medal, with one admonition---
      “It is directed that, because of the nature of services performed by this unit, that no publicity be given to your receipt of this award.”
      Japan surrendered to the Allies on August 14, 1945, when the Japanese government notified the Allies that it had accepted the Potsdam Declaration.
      In May, 1946, then Lt. Dilley was honorably discharged from active duty with the U.S. Navy, and as her separation papers noted, “Entitled to wear the World War II Victory Ribbon and the American Theater Ribbon.”
      Upon her discharge from the Navy, Margaret was hired by the Department of the Army to pursue intelligence work. She served with the Army in Tokyo, Japan from Aug., 1946 to June, 1948, where the United States closely monitored the communications of the Japanese government, translating a wide-variety of documents, such as Japanese Army orders, medical records of British prisoners of war, and a history of the war in Philippines written by surviving Japanese officers.
      She had arrived in Japan on a ship (some called these ships ‘Civilian Transport Vessels’) that left Staten Island, New York, then sailed on to Japan via the Panama Canal.
      Upon completing her work in Japan, she and a co-worker decided they would “circumnavigate” the world, and did, first flying to Shanghai, China, then to Hong Kong, then obtaining passage on a Swedish freighter to Marseilles, France. After traveling mostly by train all around Europe, Margaret said she was “unable to book sea passage back to the United States, and had to fly home.”
      Returning to Boardman, she still had the desire to be overseas, and she applied for a job with the United States Information Agency (USIA). The agency existed from 1953 to 1999, and was a United States agency devoted to “public diplomacy,” ‘tho some might say its principle duty was to oversee official propaganda of the U.S. government.
      She served as a USIA librarian until 1963, working in Athens, Greece; Bombay, India; New Dehli, India; Ankara, Turkey; and in Washington, D.C.
      Margaret resigned from the USIA in 1963 to marry local contractor Andrew Entzi, and the couple made their home at 55 Buena Vista Ave. in Boardman. She passed away in May, 2003 at the age of 87.
      Of her service in Japan during the occupation, Margaret recalled at the 50th WAVES reunion in 1993, “It was difficult to reconcile the Japanese people we knew, with the ones we read about.”
      Margaret Dilley Entzi learned the meticulous work of code-breaking and she stands among group of women whose efforts in Japan helped to shorten World War II, saved countless lives, and gave them access to careers previously denied to them. A strict vow of secrecy nearly erased their efforts from history.
      Code breakers of World War II advanced what is known as signals intelligence—reading the coded transmissions of enemies, as well as (sometimes) of allies. They laid the groundwork for the now burgeoning field of cyber security, which entails protecting one’s data, networks, and communications against enemy attack. They pioneered work that would lead to the modern computing industry.
      Editor’s Note: To learn more about
      code breakers, read Code Girls: “The Untold Story of the American Women Code Breakers of World War II,” by Lisa Mundy.
     
      PICTURED: MARGARET DILLEY, pictured, served wit the U.S. Navy during World War II as an intelligence officer, well qualified in her specialty, the Japanese language.
  ‘Squatters’ Escorted Out Of Hillman Way Apartment  
  October 31, 2019 Edition  
     Local and federal officials are looking into claims that possible ‘squatters’ were living in a Hillman Way apartment that had been rented through the Department of Housing and Urban Development for a military veteran.
      Last week, on Wed., Oct. 23, police went to 4200 Hillman Way, apt. 11, where a woman, who said she was an employee of the Veterans Administration “and/or” the Department of Housing and Urban Development, told police federal funds were paying for a military veteran to live in the apartment.
      Lt. John Allsopp said he was told federal guidelines are “strict in the sense that no one else [but the military veteran] is authorized to live there.”
      The VA/HUD employee told Lt. Allsopp the veteran had been “MIA for some time now” and when she went to the apartment last week for a welfare check, she discovered four squatters were staying there.
      One woman told Lt. Allsopp the four people had permission to move into the apartment, and the veteran was “staying with family in the Leetonia area.”
      According to Lt. Allsopp, the woman said she had permission to stay in the apartment, and had invited three friends to come and stay with her.
      All four ‘squatters’ were issued criminal trespass warnings and escorted off the property.
      The VA/HUD employee told police there were “multiple signs of illegal drug activity in plain view [at the apartment], but upon officers’ arrival on the scene, the apartment had been cleaned of any and all visible needles.”
      In addition, the VA/HUD employee told Lt. Allsopp that she believed the veteran may have committed a felony federal crime of illegally taking VA/HUD benefits, then turning around and profiting from them further by renting out [his apartment].”
  Boardman Township Fiscal Officer’s Most Significant Achievement---  
  A New Fire Station Built With No New Taxes:   October 31, 2019 Edition  
      Two candidates will be on the November general election ballot for the post of Boardman Township Fiscal Officer, including incumbent William Leicht.
      The township fiscal officer is responsible for distributing the more than $19 million a year that is costs to operate Boardman government, including its police, fire and road departments, as well as the zoning/planning department.
      Mr. Leicht has served Boardman Township extremely well, having previously served as a member of the Boardman Board of Education, before becoming Boardman Township’s Fiscal Officer.
      Perhaps his most significant achievement in office was figuring out how to finance a new main fire station at Market St. and Stadium Dr., at a cost of more than $3.2 million, without going to the electorate for new tax monies to finance the project.
      Boardman Township has flourished under the financial direction provided by Mr. Leicht, a Certified Public Account, despite the loss of millions of dollars in state funding.
      His contribution to leading the way to finance the new fire station will serve Boardman Township, its residents and visitors, as well as businesses, for many decades to come.
  Comparative Data On Area School Districts  
  State-Run Youngstown City Schools Spend $124 Million Annually, Get Failing Grades:   October 24, 2019 Edition  
     The National Center for Education Statistics (NCES) is the part of the United States
      Department of Education’s Institute of
      Education Sciences (IES) that collects,
      analyzes, and publishes statistics on education and public school district finance information in the United States. Listed below is comparative data from the NCES on area school districts. Of note: According to the NCES, more than
      $124 million is spent annually in the Youngstown City School District, a school
      district given failing grades by the Ohio
      Department of Education, and that is run by the Ohio Department of Education with no
      local control. In plain words, the state of Ohio is spending $124 million a year to operate a
      failing school system.
     
      Boardman Local Schools
      Total Population of School District.....35,857
      Total Households..........................15,865
      Total Students.............................4,118
       •Classroom Teachers.........................255
       •Student/Teacher Ratio.....................16-1
       •Students with IEPs.........................686
      Median Income of Households..............$69,711
      Housing Status of Families
      33.5% renter-occupied 66.5% owner-occupied
      Total Expenditures: $51,603,000
     
      Austintown Local Schools
      Total Population of School District.......35,116
      Total Households........................15,440
      Total Students.............................4,629
       •Classroom Teachers.........................277
       •Student/Teacher Ratio.....................16-1
       •Students with IEPs.........................706
      Median Income of Households..............$56,620
      Housing Status of Families
      27.2% renter-occupied 72.8% owner-occupied
      Total Expenditures: $47,796,000
     
      Canfield Local Schools
      Total Population of School District.......18,440
      Total Students.............................2,642
      Total Households...........................7,480
       •Classroom Teachers.........................141
       •Student/Teacher Ratio..................18.74-1
       •Students with IEPs.........................322
      Median Income of Households.............$103,167
      Housing Status of Families
      11.2% renter-occupied 88.5% owner-occupied
      Total Expenditures: $26,522,000
     
      Poland Local Schools
      Total Population of School District.......14,905
      Total Students.............................1,834
      Total Households...........................6,165
       •Classroom Teachers..........................95
       •Student/Teacher Ratio.....................19-1
       •Students with IEPs.........................216
      Median Income of Households..............$93,061
      Housing Status of Families
      18.8% renter-occupied 81.2% owner-occupied
      Total Expenditures: $23,637,000
     
      Youngstown City Schools
      Total Population of School District.......66,903
      Total Students.............................5,204
      Total Households..........................28,061
       •Classroom Teachers.........................364
       •Student/Teacher Ratio..................14.29-1
       •Students with IEPs.......................1,198
      Median Income of Households..............$27,679
      Housing Status of Families
      60.1% renter-occupied 39.9% owner-occupied
      Total Expenditures: $124,478,000
     
      South Range Local Schools
      Total Population of School District........6,855
      Total Students.............................1,278
      Total Households...........................2,478
       •Classroom Teachers..........................72
       •Student/Teacher Ratio..................17.75-1
       •Students with IEPs.........................163
      Median Income of Households..............$95,274
      Housing Status of Families
      9.8% renter-occupied 90.2% owner-occupied
      Total Expenditures: $14,073,000
     
      Struthers City Schools
      Total Population of School District.......11,482
      Total Students.............................1,867
      Total Households...........................4,641
       •Classroom Teachers.........................106
       •Student/Teacher Ratio..................17.53-1
       •Students with IEPs.........................265
      Median Income of Households..............$45,607
      Housing Status of Families
      44.8% renter-occupied 55.7% owner-occupied
      Total Expenditures: $21,027,000
     
  O P I N I O N  
  Boardman Park Renewal Deserves Support:   October 24, 2019 Edition  
     On Tues., Nov. 5, the general election ballot will ask the electorate in Boardman Township to vote on a three-tenths mil renewal issue for Boardman Park.
      Boardman Park is funded by a single mill, and the three-tenths-mil renewal issue represents about 20 per cent of the park’s annual income, generating about $226,000 a year.
      The renewal is crucial in order to keep Boardman Park viable. Cost of the levy is two-cents a day, or only $7.37 a year per every $100,000 of home valuation.
      “Just pennies a day,” Park Commissioner Joyce Mistovich says, adding that Boardman Park is the only park district in the state of Ohio that has operated on the same millage for 71 years.
      “While operating on one-mil, the size of the park has tripled…[and] with reductions in local government funding, and decreasing reimbursements from the state of Ohio, Boardman Park has lost 14 per cent of its budget, about $185,000 since 2009,” Mistovich said.
      Boardman Park is well maintained, and a green space in the community enjoyed by hundreds of thousands visitors every year. It provides a variety of programs for children all the way up to senior citizens---Just a few events that bring people to the park are the annual Boardman Kiwanis Easter Egg Hunt, Memorial Day observances, summer concerts and the Fourth of July fireworks show, The Boardman Rotary Oktoberfest, Halloween hayrides, the Holiday Festival of Lights and the Community Christmas Celebration, and everyday there are those that come to the park just for a walk, or to visit the Marge Hartman Dog Park.
      Boardman Park therefore, provides a sanctuary where people come together for fellowship. Boardman Park is one of Boardman Township’s greatest assets. Its renewal issue means ‘no new taxes,’ and at 2-cents a day, there isn’t a better bargain in Boardman. The Boardman Township Park District strongly deserves a Yes Vote on its miniscule, 3/10-mil renewal issue on Nov. 5.
  Civil Conversation Can Strengthen Relationship Between Schools And Community  
  ‘Schols Don’t Want To Be Stagnant. Education Is Changing Quickly’:   October 17, 2019 Edition  
      Led by an educational consultant, Dr. Dave Kircher, Boardman Local School Supt. Tim Saxton announced a “strategic planning process for Boardman Local Schools,” during a forum held last week in the small auditorium at Center Middle School. About 80 persons attended the meeting.
      Kircher proposed the creation of a “strategic plan…to create civil conversation…and strengthen the relationship between the schools and the community.”
      Saying he had been in education for more than 50 years, Kircher said the “schools don’t want to be stagnant. Education is changing quickly.”
      Kircher said meetings that will begin later this year will help facilitate a report on the ‘state of the schools’ and a community meeting next spring.
      “We have to look ahead to the next five years, and narrow [the plan] down to five, major goals,” Kircher said, adding he hoped the focus groups could start meeting by mid-November.
      The school superintendent said input in creating a plan will need input from different points of view and could include development of a new mission statement.
      The current Mission Statement for Boardman Local Schools says, “In cooperation with school, home and community, the district is dedicated to the development of independent, life-long learners. This is achieved through assessment, identification, and individualized instruction. Our goal is to help students achieve their fullest potential.”
      Kircher is from the consulting group, Finding Leaders, based out of Cleveland, Oh.
     
  Transportation Plan And Market St. Study Approved  
  October 17, 2019 Edition  
      Boardman Township Trustees have approved an ‘Active Transportation Plan’ and adopted a ‘Market St. Multi-Modal Feasibility Study,’ as proposed by the township Zoning/Development Office.
      Zoning/Development Director Krista Beniston said the Eastgate Regional Council of Government will provide funding for the transportation plan that “seeks to improve the safety, accessibility and health of the community by creating a connected bicycle and pedestrian walk.”
      The Market St. study was funded through a grant received from the Western Reserve Health Foundation, Beniston said.
      “The study evaluated the feasibility of multi-modal options along Market St., between Midlothian Blvd. and Meadowbrook Ave.,” she said.
      Trustees also have approved a nuisance abatement resolution for property/maintenance issues at 3917 Arden Blvd.
      In another matter, a bid of $144,000 by R.T. Vernal, has been accepted to upgrade drainage on West Huntington Dr. That project will be funded through an Ohio Public Works grant and license plate tax monies, Road Department Supt. Marilyn Kenner said. Work on the project should be completed by mid-November. The West Huntington Dr. area was heavily-impacted by late May rainstorms.
  Wagon Wheel Motel Reopens Under Court Order Of 4-Phase Plan Of Improvements  
  October 17, 2019 Edition  
     ‘Given the current condition of the motel, and the proposed schedule of repairs, the Wagon Wheel Motel is no longer unsafe or structurally defective, and does not present a condition which endangers the lives of occupants, or other buildings or property.”
      A temporary restraining order that was issued on May 24, and that closed down the Wagon Wheel Motel, 7015 Market St., has been lifted by Mahoning County Common Pleas Judge John Durkin, allowing the facility to reopen.
      On a hearing in May, the court found the business was a hazard, “insecure, unsafe and structurally defective.’ Magistrate Don DeLarentis said the structure was in dilapidated condition, had defective or poorly-installed electrical wiring equipment, and the building was “especially liable to fire, or endangers life.”
      In allowing the motel to reopen, Judge Durkin said “the defendants (Akm and Nasrin Rahman, 29 Overhill Rd.; and Chirag Enterprises, Chirag Patel, statutory agent, of 1715 Turkey Foot Lake Rd., Akron, Oh.) have undertaken significant efforts in improve the condition of the property...however, the work is not complete.
      He also noted that Officer William Ferrando, of the Boardman Fire Department “believes that given the current condition of the motel, and the proposed schedule of repairs, the Wagon Wheel Motel is no longer unsafe or structurally defective, and does not present a condition which endangers the lives of occupants, or other buildings or property.”
      In lifting the restraining order, owners/operators of the motel agreed to undertake a four-phase repair schedule that must be completed by Aug. 1, 2022.
      The first phase of the improvements must be completed by Nov. 1, 2019 and includes removal of all temporary tarp and plastic roof patches that must be replaced with “compatible permanent patches.”
      According to the court’s settlement agreement on the matter, “The motel agrees that it will cease operation if any of the work identified on any phase has not been satisfactorily completed.”
      The settlement agreement mandates that plans for any repairs must be submitted to the Mahoning County Building Department “or other agencies or departments with jurisdiction,” and the dismissal “does not relieve the (Wagon Wheel) of complying with any orders of the Division of the State Fire Marshal.”
  Mill Creek Park’s North And South Golf Courses Continue To Undergo Major Improvements  
  Currently In Third Year Of 5-Year Plan:   October 3, 2019 Edition  
     BY GREG GULAS
      Boardman News Sports
      bnews@zoominternet.net
      In 2015, Hubbard native Brian Tolnar was serving as general manager and PGA director of golf at Blue Heron Golf Club in Rochester, New York, happy with his position and the progress that he was making at one of the nation’s most respected golf establishments.
      The opportunity to return home, however, to become PGA director of golf for Mill Creek Metroparks’ two championship courses was an opportunity he simply could not pass up.
      Mill Creek’s North and South courses continue to undergo improvements and changes as part of its five-year capital improvement plan, a plan that Tolnar – who is currently in his fifth-year at the helm – laid out when he was going through the interview process.
      “I played many rounds at Mill Creek as a junior golfer, then as a member of the Hubbard Eagles’ golf team and I’ve always loved everything about the course and its setting,” Tolnar said. “I spent a month preparing for my interview, looking at areas and ways to improve the course.”
      Incidentally, Tolnar’s interview coincided with Mill Creek Metroparks’ plan to make multiple improvements to the entire park. “I was hired in March of 2015 and from the minute I came on board we pretty much hit the ground running,” Tolnar added. “I had numerous meetings with Aaron Young, executive director of Mill Creek Metroparks as he was already in the process of doing the same thing for the entire park.
      “We spent the majority of 2016 getting prices, quotes and costs together and the following year rolled out our aggressive, five-year capital improvement plan. The plan will cost a little over $2 million and we’re already in the third year of the plan. We obviously wanted to be further along when the AJGA [American Junior Golf Association] came here last June, but Mother Nature had other ideas, didn’t exactly cooperate and because of the rain the land was saturated.
      “A couple vendors were behind as well due to the weather we have in the Northeast part of the country. We’re hoping that the 2019 portion of our plan will be completed by Thanksgiving, if not sooner as long as the weather cooperates.”
      Mill Creek opened in 1928, will turn 92 years-old in 2020 with its two courses attracting between 68,000-72,000 golfers each season.
      They play host to 41 leagues---the oldest is the YMCA League, which completed its 90th season this past year (second oldest is the Sigma Club); over 60 golf outings and eight local teams, including the Boardman Spartans and Cardinal Mooney Cardinals’ boys and girl’s teams, Canfield Cardinals boys, Poland Bulldogs girl’s, Ursuline boys and Ursuline Sr. co-ed squads.
      “We also host YSU’s Roseanne Schwartz Invitational each fall while the AJGA Nationals, which attracts players worldwide and is the No. 1 event in the world for juniors, generates over half a million dollars in revenue for the Mahoning Valley,” Tolnar stated. “Max Moldovan is a senior at Uniontown Lake High School this year, is the two-time defending OHSAA state champion and has won the last two AJGA events that we hosted. He’s ranked No. 1 in the world and in December will represent the USA in the U.S. Jr. President’s Cup in Melbourne, Australia. Those are the types of players we’ve been able to attract when we host the AJGA.”
      Attracting that type of talent and hoping they keep coming back involves constant improvements and Tolnar is pleased with the progress that they have been making according to their capital improvement timeframe.
      The timeline for improvement to both courses began in 2015 when Mill Creek’s management team engaged in a full-scale assessment of where they felt the facilities were deficient and in need of vital improvement for the longevity of their golf operation.
      In 2016 they developed their five-year capital improvement plan, addressing areas in need of upgrades and repair and in 2017, the process commenced with complete bunker restoration on its South Course.
      They added a golf outing tent on their South course, added a new tournament leaderboard, installed a weather safety alert system on the grounds, added a new cart staging area in front of the fieldhouse and upgraded the Pro Shop merchandising area.
      Leadership and implementation of the plan has been key during the upgrading process.
      “We have a great leadership group here at the MetroParks, from our commissioners and executive director on down to the directors and management team,” Tolnar noted. “I’m glad to be a part of the team with the vision toward making our facilities better than how we found them five years ago.
      “The people of the Mahoning Valley deserve the very best when it comes to the quality of the facilities and it’s been fun to be a part of the many positive upgrades that have been made thus far.”
      In 2018, bunker restoration continued to its North course, painting to the exterior of the fieldhouse began while fieldhouse rest room facilities were upgraded. They added new hole signage, designed a new outdoor short game area and added new golf cart and pull cart fleets.
      “This year we started the season with upgrades to the fieldhouse lobby and Hole #55 Restaurant, currently undergoing bunker restoration on the North and South courses which will conclude in mid-October, weather pending.” Tolnar said. “A new short game area will begin construction later this fall and new tee markers will be added in October.”
      Drainage to its North and South greens, which began this year, is something that all top-notch courses worldwide take seriously.
      “Drainage in the 1920’s was very limited to non-existent in some cases,” he added. “All newer courses and modern-day designs currently receive this process during construction. The greens drainage project at Mill Creek is vital to the long-term stability of our green complexes.
      “When the project is completed, our patrons will have greens that are more consistent with faster speeds. Faster green speeds are something every golfer enjoys and we’re excited to give our golfers a new and much needed experience.”
      The greens drainage process includes trenching a main drain line on the lower portion of the green, removing the existing soil and clay within the green, installing drainage pipe throughout the entire green, connecting cross-line drainage trenches all across the existing greens every 5-6 feet, filling the trenches with material that will allow the green to drain properly, replacing existing sod to the surface and rolling the finished surface so it is ready for immediate use.
      The benefits will begin in 2020 and last well beyond with head superintendent Lance Bailey appreciative of the many upgrades.
      “The future health of the turf quality on our greens will be much improved when this project is finished,” he said. “We’re looking forward to giving the golfers a more enhanced surface on which to putt during tournaments, our weekly leagues and open play. In addition, the more modernized greens will make for more management by the staff as we maintain them daily.”
      Tolnar feels players will appreciate the upgrades.
      “In addition to faster green speeds and more consistent greens, it will decrease the number of ball marks on the greens and eliminate soft surface and sponginess in those greens,” Tolnar stated. “As far as maintenance, it will allow greens to finally drain properly, provide a healthier root structure with much deeper growth because our current root depth is 1-3 inches while a healthy root depth is anywhere between 11 and 16 inches.
      “It will allow us to cut the greens at a shorter mowing height without the green dying out, making greens less susceptible to disease. On the cost-saving side of things, greens with proper drainage will be less dependent on chemicals to stay healthy and decrease in expenses yearly as we move forward. It lessens the number of man hours needed to maintain them on a daily-basis.”
      The short game area and new tee markers will also have added benefits.
      “We’ll merge our current three practice greens together to create one, extra-large practice putting surface,” Tolnar noted. “We’ll add two, new additional greens of which one will be used for chipping practice and the other for bunker practice.
      “We‘ll install a practice bunker with the installation of drainage and irrigation also slated. New tee markers will be installed in October, branding the Mill Creek MetroParks’ logo into the blue, white, gold, red and silver tee markers, all of which was purchased locally from a company in the Mahoning Valley.”
      Former Cardinal Mooney High School and Kent State University golf star, Andy Santor, serves as Mill Creek’s South course head golf professional.
      “Overall, what we are doing will make the day-to-day conditions great for those who play our course,” he said. “It will also make it a better playing venue for the events that we are trying to attract.”
      Stacie Butler, former Boardman High School and Methodist University star, is North course head professional.
      Being a public facility means showcasing both courses as much as possible, according to Tolnar.
      They also embrace the private sector funding support that they have received.
      “Our facility is a little different in that it is a public facility and we want to host as many events as possible,” Tolnar concluded. “Without naming the groups, we are close to securing two or three more highly visible events and we should know between Thanksgiving and the New Year where we stand with those.
      “The capital improvement process has been something that our staff has worked on for a long time and it’s exciting to see all the progress that has been made to date. We want to make the overall user experience something the people in the area can be proud of and we’re confident that when the entire process is completed, we will instill the legacy of Donald Ross who designed the facility over 90 years ago.
      “A special thank you to the Mahoning Valley Hospital Foundation and CEO Mike Senchak who have generously donated $100,000 for a four-year title sponsorship agreement for the AGJA Tournament, $300,000 to create the golf department’s first ever endowment called the Mahoning Valley Hospital Foundation Golf Endowment and donation of the South Outing Tent, Tournament Leaderboard and numerous Beautification Projects.
      “Private funding, grant funding and outside individual and foundation support with financial contribution will play an important part of where and how we grow moving forward. Partnerships, like the one with the Mahoning Valley Hospital Foundation, are vital in looking toward the next 90 years as well as the generations of golfers to come,” he said
      “I am extremely excited about the projects happening at Mill Creek Golf Course, from the bunker restoration to the clubhouse renovation to the short game area and carts paths. I grew up playing here, which special in and of itself so being part of this transformation is just as special. I love hearing all of the positive feedback from our residents that play here daily and sharing stories of how the facility has improved and continues to get better with each of our projects. We all truly appreciate what is taking place.”
  ELECTION FORUM  
  Three Renewal Tax Issues On The November Ballot:   October 3, 2019 Edition  
     BY JOHN A. DARNELL JR.
      associate editor
      Three issues that will be on the November ballot were presented at the Boardman Civic Association’s Candidates and Issues forum held at the Lariccia Family Community Center in Boardman Park last month.
      Speaking on behalf of a three-tenths mil Road and Bridge renewal issue for Boardman Township was Trustee Tom Costello.
      Addressing the three-tenths renewal issue for the Boardman Park District was Park Commissioner Joyce Mistovich.
      Concluding the issues portion of the forum was the executive director of the Public Library of Youngstown and Mahoning County, Aimee Fifarik.
      Boardman Township Renewal
      Trustee Costello said the three-tenths mil Road and Bridge Levy was first approved by the electorate in 1976 and raises $111,600 of the Boardman Road Department’s annual $3.1 million budget.
      He said in the year 2000, the cost of resurfacing one mile of roadway in the township was about $31,000.
      “Today that cost exceeds $110,000,” Costello said, noting Boardman’s Road Department maintains 144 miles of roadway.
      Costello said the road department’s annual budget of $3.1 million, also includes equipment costs, like expenses for a street sweeper that today costs about $320,000; or a 5-ton truck used year around that costs about $200,000.
      “While our costs have risen, this levy has stayed the same,” he said.
      Costello said in 2019, Boardman Township resurfaced 5.5 miles of roadway at a cost of about $700,000, and next year plans to resurface 7 miles of roadway at a cost of about $980,000.
      “This would not be possible without the use of grant money,” Costello said, adding annual grants from the Ohio Public Works Commission funds up to 30 per cent of road resurfacing programs. We could not do this work, without those funds, without this levy.”
      Boardman Park Renewal
      Commissioner Mistovich said Boardman Park is funded by a single mill, and the three-tenths-mil renewal issue represents about 20 per cent of the park’s annual income, generating about $226,000 a year.
      “This renewal is crucial in order to keep Boardman Park viable,” Mistovich said, noting cost of the levy is two-cents a day, or only $7.37 a year per every $100,000 of home valuation.
      “Just pennies a day,” she said, exclaiming Boardman Park is the only park district in the state of Ohio that has operated on the same millage for 71 years.
      “While operating on one-mil, the size of the park has tripled…[and] with reductions in local government funding, and decreasing reimbursements from the state of Ohio, Boardman Park has lost 14 per cent of its budget, about $185,000 since 2009,” Mistovich said.
      She said Boardman Park oversees 254 acres of public land that “intercepts 14.5 million gallons of water annually.”
      “The park is a place where people and families come together…[and] is one of the most popular recreational facilities in the Mahoning Valley.
      “Boardman Park plays a vital role in maintaining our community slogan, ‘Boardman, A Nice Place to Call Home,’” Mistovich concluded.
      The Library’s 2.4-mil Renewal Levy
      The Public Library of Youngstown and Mahoning County operated in 2018 on General Fund expenses of $24.3 million, and with 143 full-time and 52 part-time employees. Additionally, the library system showed $38.756 million in expenses from its Building ad Repair Fund.
      Executive Director Fifarik told those present at the Civic Association forum cost of the 2.4-mil renewal issue per $100,000 valuation would be $82/year.
      She said the renewal issue “is important because it funds half of the library’s regular operating budget,” and it is crucial to “keep the doors open, the lights on, and materials on the shelf.”
      There are 15 libraries operating in Mahoning County that draw close to a million people a year, Fifarik said, noting that 34 per cent of the households in the county have a library card. 70 per cent of those card-holders visit a library for computer access and internet help, she said, adding that 21 per cent of our users “are teenagers and their families.”
      The executive director pointed out that in August, 2019, upwards of 9,000 people visited the Boardman Library on Glenwood Ave.
      She said a little-known fact about the library system is that it offers job training skills and job assistance, and “we have a social worker on staff to help connect people with resources for food and shelter, or [connect] seniors with Medicare advice. For senior citizens, we provide services by mail.
      “We even have books, including downloadable e-books and audio books.”
      Fifarek said the Public Library of Youngstown and Mahoning County has a “long history of operating debt free.”
  ELECTION FORUM  
  Incumbent Trustee Larry Moliterno Faces Challenge From Three Candidates:   September 26, 2019 Edition  
     BY JOHN A. DARNELL JR.
      associate editor
      All four candidates who will be in the November ballot for a seat as a Boardman Township Trustee spoke last week at the Boardman Civic Association’s annual election forum held at the Lariccia Family Center at Boardman Park. About 70 persons attended the event.
      The seat on the Boardman Board of Trustees currently held by Larry Moliterno will be contested.
      Moliterno, 57, of 427 Gardenview Dr., will seek re-election.
      Challengers are Tabitha Fitz-Patrick, 32, of 162 Melrose Ave.; Tracie Balentine, 49, of 743 Indianola Rd.; and Jason Pavone, 44, 573 Squirrel Hill Dr.
      Moliterno has served as a township trustee for 12 years and said he and fellow trustees, Brad Calhoun and Thomas Costello, as well as Fiscal Officer Bill Leicht “All share a focus of doing what is right for the people of Boardman.”
      “Over the past decade we have had challenges, and faced them head on,” Moliterno said, noting, for example, there have been issues with some commercial properties on Market St., particularly the former Terrace Motel, and more recently, the Wagon Wheel Motel.
      “The Terrace Motel was demolished. We are taking care of other problem sites like the Wagon Wheel Motel,” Moliterno said.
      He noted the current ‘township team’ built a new, main fire station, in collaboration with the local school system, adding “That’s why you can have confidence that we will work together for a viable solution for the Market St. Elementary School property.”
      In an effort to reduce costs of operation, and in light of a loss of some $3 million in state subsides, Moliterno said the township has entered into collaborative arrangements for the purchase of asphalt for paving bids, automatic mutual aid agreements for the fire department, and an emergency dispatching system (that is funded by several local governmental agencies).
      “That’s why you can continue to have the confidence that we will continue to operate the township efficiently,” Moliterno said.
      He noted that only 21 per cent of property taxes paid by township residents go to services provided by Boardman Township.
      “For that, you receive ‘24-7’ police security, ‘24-7’ fire protection, road paving, snow removal and zoning enforcement,” Moliterno said, adding “for most residents, that is less than the cost of a daily, medium-sized coffee at Dunkin Donuts.”
      In an effort to maintain the integrity of local neighborhoods, Moliterno said a township landbank was created “that has allowed us to demolish some homes, while supporting the rehabilitation of others.
      “We created the landlord registration program to make sure our residents live in safe environments, and property values are preserved.
      “That’s why you can have confidence that will continue to protect the integrity of our neighborhoods.
      Noting proposed improvements to the Southern Park Mall, Moliterno said township officials went to Columbus to meet with the mall’s owners, Washington Prime Group.
      “As you’ve seen by recent announcements, you an continue to have confidence that we will continue to support jobs and businesses in our community.”
      Acknowledging surface water issues on the township, Moliterno said the township has completed over $3 million in storm water projects and formed a water district that will provide funding to make repairs and storm water infrastructure improvements.
      “We have received funding (a grant) to repair damaged infrastructure in Huntington Woods, and used water district funds to repair a culvert on South Cadillac Dr.,” he said, adding $1.2 million in grant funds will aid in a disaster mitigation program through the acquisition of property located in flood plains.
      “[Government] always faces challenges and problems. Handling those challenges and solving problems is a major part of a trustee’s job...It’s easy to run for office, but it is a lot harder to do the job,” Moliterno said.
      Fitz-Patrick opened her address opining “When you drive into Boardman, you’ll see signs that say ‘Boardman, A Nice Place to Call Home.’ To me, that means successful schools, a beautiful park, fast responding safety services and belonging to a community I’m proud to say I belong to.”
      Saying she is a 2005 graduate of Boardman High School, Fitz-Patrick said “We need a strategic plan to improve our infrastructure, we need competitive pay for our safety service employees, and we need additional funds for the schools so they can continue to thrive.”
      She said her background is in social work.
      “I’ve advocated for a lot of cause. I have experience in policy writing, grant writing and I’m co-writing a bill with Rep. Tim Ryan to help...provide a more safe base for students being shamed and embarrassed,” Fitz-Patrick said.
      She said as a “representative for Boardman, what I have to offer is my advocating skills and finding additional funds and helping the community to rally together to fight for these changes.”
      Balentine told those in attendance when she was a little girl, she grew up on a farm.
      “My grandmother was my hero. She told me “Tracie, you can be anything you want, as long as you work hard, keep learning and remember where you came from.’”
      Next, Balentine asked “Has Boardman worked hard for you? That’s the question. We review some of the same issues year after year...dealing with reduced funding, dealing with how we can get some of those tax dollars to stay in Boardman that are generated by Boardman.
      “And, the answers are all the same...There’s no hard work there. Levy, tax the people, they’ll pay.”
      Holding-up a notebook entitled ‘Ohio Economic Development Manual,’ Balentine said the booklet contained a myriad of ways we can spur economic development and also bring revenues to our township....
      “Instead of learning about these tools, and implementing them, we continue to levy upon levy, and now it gets us to where we are now, one of the highest-taxed places in Mahoning County.
      “The taxpayers have said ‘enough,’ and I am listening,” Balentine said, adding “How can we forget where we came from? It’s been a long time since Boardman was a farm, but my goodness, aren’t our leaders ready to just give it away.”
      She decried a proposed 15-year tax abatement on new development at the Southern Park Mall.
      “At what cost Boardman, are we going to bankrupt our township and our schools? Or, get into an emergency situation where we need to levy our people and bankrupt our residents?
      “I think not, there are other tools we can use.”
      Balentine said where she comes from, “my Boardman, is one where trustees should be ambassadors for business, and work with other entities and partner with them, “not be beholding to them.”
      She provided a very dim view of ‘her’ Boardman.
      “My Boardman is not just millionaires and career politicians.
      “My Boardman is teachers, fire-fighters, social workers, small business owners, single parents, people that are addicted to drugs and trying to stay clean, people that are laid off and trying to hold onto their homes that they hold so dear.
      “These are real people, like you and me, and this is our Boardman.”
      Balentine concluded, “I am not a yes man. I am a get it done girl.”
      Pavone said he has lived in Boardman for 40 years.
      “I was born in Mississippi, but don’t hold that against me. My wife and I live over in Boardman. We’re foster parents. We used to be. We have kids adopted through foster care. They both go to Boardman schools.”
      Pavone said he entered the Trustee’s race in the belief that some changes are needed.
      “I like a quote attributed to Mark Twain--Politicians in diapers should be changed often and for the same reason.’ Basically, when you have politicians that stay in office for years, and years, and years...it leads to complacency, no new thinking. It leads to stale ideas,” Pavone said.
      He said his platform was based on three concepts---term limits, pay for public employees that is compatible with the private sector, and assurances public funds are not wasted.
      Terms for township trustee are governed by state law and Pavone said if two, four-year terms are good enough for the President of the United States, that should be good enough for township trustees.
      On public employees’ salaries, Pavone quipped, “Comparable salaries and comparable benefits. This is something that needs to be looked at.”
      Claiming the ABC Water District had no building and it spent $2000 for furniture and $1000 for a phone line, Pavone asked, “Could that money be used elsewhere, used to do another project?”
      Pavone said ‘the other issue’ is flooding...
      “The simple fact remains, that amount of rain we had in May, there’s nothing that is going to help that...
      “But the ABC Water District was created. Now it becomes executing that plan.”
      Fitz-Patrick said that “local universities” like Ohio State, Youngstown and Kent State could send their senior engineering students to Boardman for a “senior project to give recommendations” on water issues.
      Balentine said “Trustees need to keep their ear to the ground and see where the challenges are.”
      Pavone said follow-up is needed on water issues. “It has to be reiterated over and over again, that [ABC Water District] projects need to happen in Boardman.”
      Moliterno noted that all money collected from Boardman residents for the ABC Water District “Can only be used for projects in Boardman.”
      This is the first of a three-part series on the Boardman Civic Association’s Candidates and Issues Night.
  Foster Mom’s Plea Deal Does Not Allow Her To Take More Foster Children  
  Charged With Endangering Children Alfreda Atkins Pleads Guilty To Disorderly Conduct:   September 19, 2019 Edition  
     BY JOHN A. DARNELL JR.
      associate editor
      A 63-year-old woman who operated a foster home at 351 Marlyn Place entered a plea of guilty to a reduced charge of disorderly conduct, after being charged last April with two counts of child endangering.
      As part of her plea deal, Alfreda Atkins agreed not to take any foster children, according to court records. She was fined $150 on the disorderly conduct conviction and a 30 day jail sentence was suspended by Boardman Court Judge Joseph Houser.
      Atkins, also known as Alfreda White and Freda Burns, faced the child endangering charges following an investigation by Sgt. Michael Sweeney into allegations that surfaced after a social worker at Child Advocacy Center at Akron Childrens Hospital determined a 4-year-old boy showed signs of abuse and neglect.
      Boardman police were sent to the Advocacy Center on Mar. 19, after an Alta Preschool employee notified a social worker the child “had several suspicious marks and showed other signs of abuse and neglect,” Officer Evan Beil said.
      “Alta further advised [the child] often smelled like urine and feces, suffered from poor oral hygiene and came to school in clothes that were soiled and often were too small,” Officer Beil said.
      The child told the social worker he was often beaten with coat hangers and belts, and that other foster children in the Marlyn Place home also beat him.
      “Due to the issues, [the boy] and remaining foster children were removed from the home,” Officer Beil said.
      While investigating the allegations of child abuse, police were also told a man with a criminal record lived at the home.
      According to Officer Beil, the social worker said the man was “not supposed to be at the foster home because of his criminal record.”
      The 4-year-old boy was placed into the home last fall by the Cuyahoga County Childrens Services Agency and the foster care facility operates outside of the jurisdiction of Mahoning County Childrens Services.
      “[The Marlyn Place] address is not a home which the Mahoning County Children Services Board has recommended nor maintains,” Jennifer Kollar, public information officer told The Boardman News last April.
      Sgt. Sweeney said the home may operated and/or licensed under the jurisdiction of Ohio Mentor Inc, of Stutz Dr., Canfield, Oh.
      Records on file with the Ohio Secretary of State’s Office show the filing agent for Ohio Mentor Inc. is the Institute for Family Centered Services Inc., of Boston, Mass.
      Now that the case against Atkins has been adjudicated, Sgt. Sweeney said steps will be taken to insure Atkins does not operate another foster home in Boardman.
  Niners Marquis Goodwin A Light Of Inspiration  
  ‘He Took The Time To Personally Visit Everyone At Easter Seals’:   September 19, 2019 Edition  
     BY JOHN A. DARNELL JR.
      associate editor
      Sports, they say, is a necessary ingredient in the democracy we call America. It allows fans to get their emotions out---cheer for their team and favorite players, and debate for endless hours how a game is played.
      Last week, the San Francisco 49ers came to town, staying at the Holiday Inn in Boardman, while holding practice sessions on the campus of Youngstown State University.
      To be sure, the Niners enjoyed a lot of Handel’s Ice Cream during their visit here. But they took their presence here to another level when the team made several appearances at local hospitals and social agencies.
      One visit was made to the Easter Seals Center on Edwards St. in Youngstown, and one particular member of the team, wide receiver Marquis Goodwin, uplifted adults at the Center’s day care program.
      When most of the team left the Center, Marquis stayed behind, personally visiting the some 30 adults who receive day care there.
      Among those he visited was 70-year-old Ron Mistovich of Boardman, a former noted art instructor at Youngstown State University, who is now battling Alzheimer’s.
      You see, shortly after he joined the Niners in 2017, Marquis and his wife lost their prematurely-born son due to complications during pregnancy. On Nov. 12, 2017, he caught his first touchdown pass of the season on an 83-yard reception.
      After beating one defender, he blew a kiss to the sky, and once in the end zone, he took a knee in prayer before falling to both knees, as his teammates gathered around him.
      Afterwards, Marquis revealed that he and his wife had lost their son in the early morning hours the day of the game.
      The loss of his son is not the only bump in the road Marquis had to deal with along his journey in life.
      He has a sister who was born with cerebral palsy.
      “I was so impressed with him,” Joyce Mistovich, Ron’s wife of 46 years said this week, noting “He really gets it. He took the time to personally visit everyone at Easter Seals. He has a heart of gold. It wasn’t about football so much, it was about giving everyone there some hope. His true character shined through.”
      Joyce Mistovich, who sits on the Board of Boardman Park Commissioners, understands what Marquis Goodwin has had to deal with in his life.
      In addition to providing care for her husband, she has an adult daughter who was born with retinopathy, and condition that makes her daughter, Joy, legally blind. Only recently she has received a device, a pair of glasses, that can help her see.
      “We move forward as a family,” Joyce says, noting “we are thankful for everyday. We don’t see these issues as an obstacle that prevent us from living, We enjoy life, and hope to inspire others in the same way.
      “For Marquis Goodwin to take some of his time to uplift others not as fortunate as he is, was so special. He helped to inspire us to move forward,” Joyce said, adding after visiting with her husband, Ron looked at the wide receiver and said, “Go Niners.”
      Well, the Niners left Boardman last week and went to Cincinnati where they stormed to a 41-17 victory over the Bengals, a win that left them at 2-0 for the first time since 2012 and looking very much like a contender.
      Jimmy Garoppolo tied his career high with three touchdown passes, Matt Breida ran for 121 yards, and San Francisco pulled off one big play after another while piling up 572 yards for the first time in seven years. The 49ers have opened with back-to-back road wins for the first time since 1989, when Joe Montana’s crew was coming off its second Super Bowl win over the Bengals.
      And, Marquis went unguarded for a 38-yard touchdown catch on their opening series.
      For Joyce Mistovich, she still recalls Goodwin’s visit to the Easter Seals.
      “I’m so glad I went there with Ron that day,” she said this week, “I had tears in my eyes.
     
      PICTURED: SAN FRANCISCO WIDE RECEIVER MARQUIS GOODWIN and his teammates visited the Easter Seals Center in Youngstown last week. He is pictured her with Ron Mistovich and his wife Joyce. “He is a special person,” Mrs. Mistovich said of Goodwin’s visit.
  11 Acres Of Land Donated To Boardman Park District  
  Former Site Of Local Nurseries:   September 19, 2019 Edition  
      The Board of Park Commissioners of Boardman Township Park, Joyce Mistovich, Trent Cailor and Kenneth Goldsboro announces a most generous gift of 11 acres of natural habitat and greenspace by the Board of Trustees of American Food Forest, Inc. The property is located on Hopkins Rd. and is the site of the former Kerrigan Nursery (and before than Beno’s Nursery).
      Approximately, one-third of the property is natural habitat, with the balance being greenspace that includes a variety of trees and shrubs. The generosity of American Food Forest facilitates the park’s mission to preserve areas of natural habitat and greenspace for the benefit of the community.
      The addition of the property brings the Boardman Park’s total acreage to 294 acres, with 186 acres devoted to the preservation of greenspace and natural habitat.
      “Greenspace and natural habitat provide critical environmental functions that contribute to many of life’s essentialsm, including making water clean, cleaning the air and returning oxygen to the atmosphere, and providing habitat for wildlife, biodiversity and ecological integrity. They also provide groundwater recharge areas, floodplain protection, natural sound barriers, storm water protection, and carbon uptake from abundant trees and vegetation, which keeps our living environment healthy,” Boardman Park Executive Director Dan Slagle Jr. said.
      “For example, there are approximately 825 trees on the property that was donated. These trees will intercept 275,000 gallons of stormwater each year; and will remove 140,250 pounds of atmospheric carbon,” Slagle added.
      “The Board of Trustees of American Food Forest’s gift of this highly beneficial greenspace clearly demonstrates their awareness of the importance of preserving areas of natural habitat, as well as their appreciation of the environment. Be assured that the preservation of the property is a responsibility that we will look forward to,” the park’s executive director said.
      “It is our honor and pleasure to give this land to Boardman Park…. the preservation of greenspace is an important function in keeping the environment healthy and much credit needs to be given to Boardman Park for their conscientiousness in preserving natural habitat,” said Susan Griesinger, chairman, American Food Forest.
      Boardman Park was established as a Township Park District in 1947, with 72 acres; and over the years, the Park has grown into a community park, rich in natural beauty, comprised of 294 acres of fertile greenspace located in Boardman. Today, the park provides 60 acres for active recreational purposes and proudly preserves 186 acres as greenspace and natural habitat that includes 40 acres of open space property located in several areas of the Township.
      Boardman Park is not only a sanctuary for numerous species of plants and animals, but also is a recreational haven for the community it serves, a place where families gather to enjoy one of our community’s greatest treasures, its natural resources.
     
  Justin Olsen: ‘Even if he beats this rap, serious harm has already been done’  
  Teenager Has Been In Jail Since Aug. 7 For Social Media Posts Lawyer Seeks To Overturn Federal Magistrate’s Detention Order:   September 12, 2019 Edition  
     BY JOHN A. DARNELL JR.
      associate editor
      Noted defense attorney J. Gerald Ingram has appealed a ruling by U.S. Magistrate George Limbert, ordering that 18-year-old Justin Olsen, of Boardman, remain in jail ‘to assure the safety of the community.’
      Olsen has been lodged in the Mahoning County Jail since Aug. 7 when he was arrested by federal law enforcement officers and Boardman police on charges of aggravated menacing of a law enforcement officer/federal agent, and telephone harassment. Those charges were dismissed by Judge Joseph Houser in Boardman Court in favor of a criminal complaint filed in United States District Court/Northern District of Ohio, in Cleveland, charging Olsen with one count of threatening to assault a federal law enforcement officer and one count of interstate communication of a threat (charges to which he has entered a not guilty plea).
      Olsen has been held without bail in the Mahoning County Jail since his arrest that stemmed from posts on social media that federal officials say made threats to their agents.
      The FBI began to investigate Olsen in early February, 2019 when the agency’s Achorage, Alaska office observed multiple internet postings that discussed supporting mass shooting and assault, and/or targeting Planned Parenthood.
      According to the federal criminal complaint, Olsen, under the banner of ‘ArmyofChrist,’ had a conversation on June 2 with another user regarding the 1993 siege in Waco, Texas about a religious sect, Branch Davidians. That conversation that concluded with a remark “Shoot every federal agent in sight,” that was attributed to Olsen.
      FBI agent Themistocles Tsarnas said he had reviewed posts made by ArmyofChrist that stated “...don’t comply with gun laws, stock up on stuff they could ban. In fact, go out of your way to break these laws, they’re fu....g stupid.”
      Another post referenced by Agent Tsarnas in the criminal complaint said “Hell, even the Oklahoma City bombing shows that armed resistance is a viable method of political change. There is no legal solution.”
      The criminal complaint suggests that Olsen’s ArmyofChrist showed a large increase in subscribers, reaching approximately 4,400 person by Mar. 18.
      The day before he was arrested, Agent Tsarnas met with Boardman Police Det. William Woods, who is assigned to the Mahoning Valley Violent Crimes Task Force, afterwhich Woods filed an affidavit seeking to search 465 Presidential Ct., where Olsen had lived with his mother.
      Woods detailed the use of ‘The Guardian Threat Tracking System,’ used by the FBI to tracks threats and other intelligence information that showed “how an 18-year-old Boardman resident, Justin Olsen, of 465 Presidential Ct., was the moderator of an online chat room and was posting threatening information.”
      Included in Woods’ affidavit was a notation that on June 3, Olsen posted a screen shot on a web site of an AR-15 (rfile) parts kit, and in which he said “he may purchase an AR-15 kit tommorow.”
      When Boardman Court Prosecutor Michael McBride reviewed this information, he agreed “that in light of recent mass shootings in the United States, we could not wait to act on this information,” Woods said, adding the prosecutor directed him to charge Olsen with telecommunications harassment and aggravated menacing.
      Judge Houser promptly issued a search warrant for 465 Presidential Ct. When Olsen could not be found there, law enforcement officials learned the teen had moved to his father’s residence at 724 Oakridge Dr., where he was arrested without incident.
      Woods said that Olsen admitted to making the online comments, but ‘they were only a joke.’
      At the father’s residence, law enforcement officials found and confiscated what one local law enforcement official told The Boardman News was a modest amount of guns (15) and ammunition (10,000 rounds).
      “Based upon the obviously terroristic-related rhetoric from ArmyofChrist, I beleieve that Justin Olsen is planning a terrorist attack in the United States...I know based upon the information received from the FBI, Olsen is using electronic devices to post his threats. I also know, because Olsen posted a picture of an AR-15 parts kit, that Olsen is using electronic devices to research potential weapons to be used during an attack,” Woods said in the affidavit for a search warrant.
      Atty. Ingram said he has never seen transcripts of the interview Officer Woods had with Olsen.
      In his appeal of the order of detention, Atty. Ingram says that Magistrate Limbert’s finding “that the evidence elicited at the detention hearing established by clear and convincing evidence that no condition, or combination of conditions, would reasonable assure the safety of the community if the defendant (was released from jail)” is “factually erroneous,” and his finding in favor of detention “is also erroneous.”
      Between Feb. 14 and Mar. 18, Atty. Ingram draws attention to two posts under the name of ArmyofChrist (when Olsen was 17-years-old)---
      On Feb. 14 an ArmyofChrist post showed a photograph of a man firing a machine gun with the caption “me walking to the nearest Planned parenthood,’ and another post stating “I would absolutely die to eradicate socialism and its variants.’
      Posts made by ArmyofChrist and reviewed by the Anchorage FBI on Mar. 18 showed an explosion in the background with the caption “me thanking God that they put the gay bar and Planned Parenthood right next to each other,” Atty. Ingram said, noting another post asserting that “bombing Planned Parenthood is noble, as is the killing of abortionists.”
      “The posts did not assert that [Olsen] planned to attack Planned Parenthood. From February to his arrest in August, he took no steps to damage a Planned Parenthood facility. The eradicate socialism post is simply not a threat, and many Americans would agree,” Atty Ingram said, while noting the post that ended in ‘shoot every federal agent in sight’ “is arguably the only post containing a threat for a federal law enforcement officer.”
      Defense counsel also points out “the government presented no evidence...that showed Justin Olsen in possession of a firearm,” and as well that Olsen never posted a video on how to make an AR-15...with a coat hanger, of promised in February, 2019.
      “There was no evidence that it is possible to make an AR-15...with a coat hanger,” Atty. Ingram said.
      Olsen had lived with his mother, Melanie, on Presidential Dr., until about two week’s before his arrest, instead had moved to his father’s home on Oakridge Dr.
      Olsen’s mother testified in court there were no weapons in her home, and also said she would not allow guns in her home.
      At the home of his father, Eric, police found and confiscated some 10,000 rounds of ammunition and more than a dozen guns.
      “Eric Olsen told law enforcement officers that all firearms, firearms paraphernalia and ammunition were his, and that he is a competitive shooter,” Atty. Ingram said, also noting that Justin said he did not have access to the gun safe.
      “Justin’s lack of access was confirmed by his father,” Atty. Ingram said, noting a motion-activated surveillance camera was positioned by a gun safe that, if activated, would send an Alert to Mr. Olsen’s phone.
      “Eric Olsen never received an alert that his son was attempting to gain access to his gun safe,” defense counsel said.
      He said no evidence had been elicited at the detention hearing before Magistrate Limbert that Olsen had ever taken steps or action to shoot federal agents.
      “The post about Waco and shooting federal agents was not sent to any identifiable law enforcement officer, was no sent to any identifiable law enforcement office, and there was no evidence that any federal law enforcement officer or office had been targeted,” Ingram pointed out.”
      Olsen graduated from Boardman High School in June with a 3.8 GPA, was a member of the tennis team, on member of three academic teams, and had never had a disciplinary infraction. In addition he was involved in a mentoring program to help individuals afflicted with Down Syndrome.
      “[Magistrate Limbert] did not give sufficient weight to [Olsen’s] lack of criminal record, his lack of a reputation for violence, and his positive school and social history,” Ingram said, while noting the magistrate “erred” in finding Olsen had access to weapons.
      “The uncontradicted testimony at the detention hearing was that [Olsen] did not have access to weapons, and that all weapons were securely locked in a monitored gun safe,” Atty. Ingram said.
      In refuting the magistrate, Atty. Ingram asked the court allow Olsen be released on a $20,000 unsecured bond to the custody of his mother, a licensed mental health counselor with no criminal history; and on the condition he be prohibited from accessing any online computer service, and consent to unannounced searches and examinations of his home and computer equipment
      * * * * * * * * * *
      To be certain, the few, inflammatory remarks on social media landed Justin Olsen in big trouble, and barely 18-year-old, he has been forced into incarceration in the Mahoning County Jail for his online remarks.
      His arrest has been news across America, and his ArmyofChrist site may have been instrumental in the arrest 19-year-old man in Chicago who made posts on social media threatening murder and slaughter at an abortion clinic.
      On a site called “Ammoland,” Jeff Knox, a second-generation political activist and director of The Firearms Coalition, penned a lengthy opinion on Olsen.
      “Today’s political and social climate is treacherous territory to navigate. It is so easy, through social media and the bubble that forms around particular groups, to throw out snide, incendiary, and downright mean comments, with little thought about how they might be perceived by people outside our bubbles, including people in law enforcement,” Knox says.
      He continues...“It might just be banter among friends,’ a group of like-minded folks snarking and crabbing about the events of the day, but to others... witty comments might be interpreted as threats and calls for violence.
      “A recent example highlights this danger. A young man in Ohio, named Justin Olsen, was commenting on things like gun control and the Waco tragedy, on a site called iFunny and a private chat site called Discord – both very popular sites, especially among teenage boys. Among his comments and memes, was a picture of some actor in a Hollywood movie blazing away with two guns simultaneously, with the text “Me walking into the nearest Planned Parenthood.” Other memes included a picture showing a mask and an AR-type rifle, with a caption encouraging people to republish the meme if they “would take liberty into your own hands.”
      “But the comment that seems to have gotten the 18-year old, recent high school graduate into serious trouble, came in the context of a conversation about the Waco Texas massacre. Olsen related a broadly inaccurate and simplistic description of the tragedy, to which the other person in the conversation commented that he had seen some documentaries about it, and that “it’s really unfortunate.”
      “To which Olsen replied, “In conclusion, shoot every federal agent on sight.”
      Knox points out “Whole parades of people calling for ‘dead cops’ go unchallenged and un-arrested?”
      “Based on what I have found and read in the criminal complaint filed against him, it appears that [Olsen is] being prosecuted for making the same sort of comments that might be seen pretty regularly under articles and in Twitter and Facebook posts. The only significant distinction I can see in this guy’s case is that his comments got flagged to authorities, while most similar comments just get deleted or ignored.
      “Unfortunately for Olsen, he happened to have been on the FBI’s radar at a moment when everyone from the President on down, is calling for someone to ‘do something’ to prevent mass shootings, and particularly, detect potential mass shooters early and interdict before they can carry out their plans.
      In conclusion, Knox says “This case, on the other hand, appears to be stretching out pretty far to try and make this kid look dangerous.
      “The important take-away though, is that online comments are permanent, and can be dangerous. We don’t need any more martyrs, and we don’t need to be using rhetoric that can be construed as threatening. I don’t know if this particular case is an example. But anti-rights extremists have long been employing a strategy of silencing their opponents by ‘flagging’ and ‘reporting’ comments, sites, channels, and pages, that they don’t agree with, to the administrators of popular social media sites, and they might have stepped that up to now include reporting such things to law enforcement as ‘threats.’
      “Justin Olsen’s whole life has probably been negatively impacted by what might be nothing more than bad jokes and some poor word choices. Even if he beats this rap, serious harm has already been done.
      “Don’t take chances. Be smart and be safe.”
  Barking Dog Complaint On Leighton Ave. Leads To Arrest Of Man On Heroin-Related Charges  
  September 12, 2019 Edition  
     A complaint about a barking dog on Leighton Ave. last week led to the arrest of a 46-year-old man on heroin-related charges.
      About 10:30 p.m. on Wed., Sept. 4, Ptl. Thomas Zorzi responded to the barking dog complaint and went to 87 Leighton Ave. in an attempt to make contact with the resident.
      “After knocking on the front door, I was met by a male,” Zorzi said, adding the man was identified as Robert Peoples, who was wanted on warrants that included trafficking in heroin and possession of heroin that had been issued out of Sandusky County, Oh.
      “He asked me if he had warrants...and then proceeded to close the door and lock it,” Officer Zorzi said.
      Immediately, five additional law enforcement officers joined Zorzi and when Peoples was asked to exit the home, he said he was babysitting his 3-year-old daughter.
      “Her mother isn’t home, I’m not coming out,” Zorzi said Peoples told police.
      Zorzi said Peoples then spoke with the child’s mother and then contacted a neighbor, identified as 49-year-old Kenneth Little, of 88 Leighton Ave., to take custody of the child.
      “Peoples then opened the door and was placed under arrest,” Officer Zorzi said.
      Police then discovered that Little is a registered sex offender, and because of this, could not take custody of the child,.
      Ptl. Nick Manis and Ptl. Brian Moss then watched the child until her mother arrived at the home.
      According to documents filed with the Court of Common Pleas in Sandusky County, Peoples was indicted in Feb., 2019 on charges of trafficking in heroin, possession of 89.56 grams of heroin, and tampering with evidence (attempting to conceal the heroin in a woman’s vagina).
      Peoples was lodged in the Mahoning County Jail pending extradition to Sandusky County, Officer Zorzi said.
  Community Day Celebration Marks Beginning Of Renovations At The Southern Park Mall  
  September 12, 2019 Edition  
      •The demolition of the former Sears department store began on Sat., Sept. 7 and will be replaced by DeBartolo Commons that will include an athletic and entertainment green space and event venue
     
       •Adjacent to DeBartolo Commons, Southern Park Mall will feature a new entertainment hub with plans to include an indoor golf entertainment center, additional entertainment uses, and new food and beverage offerings
     
       • A renovation of Southern Park Mall, that was built by the Edward J. DeBartolo Corporation, is also scheduled to include a dynamic common area including a permanent DeBartolo-York family installation as well as several differentiated and exciting new tenants.
     
       COLUMBUS, OH.---Washington Prime Group Inc. has announced a partnership with the DeBartolo-York family to design a new four-acre athletic and entertainment green space and event venue to be named DeBartolo Commons located at Southern Park Mall. The project is just a portion of the planned $30 million in renovations planned at the mall.
      In addition to the DeBartolo-York family, Boardman Township and its park district are also partners with Washington Prime Group regarding the creation of this one-of-a-kind venue that will serve the approximately 565,000 individuals who call the Greater Youngstown metropolitan area.
      “I am lucky to have become friends with several members of the DeBartolo-York family and the two characteristics which define every single one of them are generosity and loyalty. These traits are best illustrated by their continuing devotion to their hometown. Thus, it is only fitting Washington Prime Group recognizes this unequivocal love for the locale which has served as the catalyst for their many business achievements and philanthropic goodwill.
      “As a testament to their philanthropy, my father and I have witnessed it firsthand. The generosity of the DeBartolo-York family has been instrumental regarding the National Italian American Sports Hall of Fame of which my father, a former amateur boxer, serves on its Board. Born in Calabria, Italy, he often speaks of Edward J. DeBartolo Sr. and the entire family as exemplars of giving back to a community or organization worthy of such generosity. Washington Prime Group is honored to be affiliated with this great family, and as importantly, to provide Greater Mahoning Valley with an amenity for all to enjoy.”
      Denise DeBartolo York noted that “Conforti has the vision, drive and resources to restore Southern Park Mall into the social and entertainment center of Boardman. I appreciate Lou’s time and talent in this endeavor and am very excited that my Dad’s legacy will continue.”
      In addition, the WP announced the creation of a new entertainment hub at Southern Park Mall, which is expected to be anchored by several exciting venues, each overlooking DeBartolo Commons and including a new 37,000 sq-ft indoor golf entertainment center and accompanying restaurant; a new entertainment venue featuring interesting food and beverage options combined with fun leisure activities; and additional new dining options. In addition to their proximity to DeBartolo Commons, these venues will benefit from their adjacency to the recently renovated Cinemark Theaters.
      “The redevelopment underway at Southern Park Mall brings with it new opportunities for the community. The township as a whole benefits anytime we see redevelopment with job growth, new construction standards such as green space and stormwater retention, and, in this case, a sense of place developed in the center of the Township that is bringing excitement back to a level when the center was first developed by Mr. DeBartolo,” said Larry Moliterno, chairman of Boardman Township Trustees.
      The announcement of the renovations mark the kickoff of a major renovation of Southern Park Mall, which will coincide with its 50th anniversary in 2020 and honor the legacy of Edward J. DeBartolo, Sr. and the DeBartolo-York family. A transformation is underway to strengthen Southern Park Mall as the hub of retail, dining and entertainment in the area. With plans to invest millions of dollars into the town center over the next several years, the long term vision for Southern Park Mall is reflective of the community. Plans have been thoughtfully put together with the Boardman community and Trustees, surrounding communities, and existing tenants, said Matt Jurkowitz, WP vice president/development.
      Conforti, a unqiue gentleman to be sure, offered a final thought:
      “Youngstown and my hometown Chicago have a heck of a lot in common. Both have a ‘no nonsense’ approach characterized by a ‘tough as nails’ work ethic. They both recognize the importance of family. As importantly, both cities really appreciate good food whether it be pizza, pierogi or corned beef hash. While which one of our cities has the best pizza will be the subject of debate for years to come, both Youngstowners and Chicagoans can agree the greasy slice New Yorkers fold and call pizza is practically inedible. I do have to admit, Mahoning Valley has the Windy City beat hands down when it comes to wedding soup, as well as the decadent display of confectionery and caloric excess you guys call the ‘cookie table.’”
     
      PICTURED: ON HAND FOR COMMUNITY DAY last Saturday at the Southern Park Mall were, from left, Larry Moliterno, chairman of Boardman Township Trustees; Lou Conforti, CEO of Washington Prime Group; and William Leicht, Boardman Township Fiscal Officer.
  Ohio Chief Justice Selects Judge Durkin To Represent Ohio At National Drug Seminar  
  September 5, 2019 Edition  
     Mahoning County’s Judge Jack Durkin has been selected by Ohio Chief Justice Maureen O’Connor to represent the State of Ohio at the 2019 National Faculty Preparation Seminar: Court-Involved Individuals with Substance Use Disorders.
      The seminar, hosted by The National Judicial College (NJC), is designed to prepare only one representative from each state’s judicial system to teach on addiction topics that are most relevant to the justice system: the science of addiction, FDA-approved medications for treating opioid addiction, evidence-based practices, and other important topics.
      “It’s an incredible honor that Chief Justice O’Connor nominated me to represent the State of Ohio,” said Judge Durkin. “The opportunity to have leaders in law and medicine working together to address this public health and safety emergency will only strengthen the work that our treatment agencies and felony drug court already do on behalf of people in our community who suffer from a substance-use disorder.”
      Judge Durkin established Mahoning County’s Felony Drug Court over 20 years ago, and it continues to produce positive results, including recidivism rates lower than 10 percent, and 7 percent after three years.
      Specialty dockets, like drug court(s), allow for judges to provide alternative options like treatment for substance-use disorder rather than serving jail time.
      These specialty courts are also a proven way to hold individuals with a substance-use disorder accountable and ensure participation in mental health and addiction treatment.
  Rebecca Bayley Joins Meridian As Director Of Development  
  September 5, 2019 Edition  
Rebecca Bayley
     Larry Moliterno, CEO of Meridian HealthCare in Youngstown, Ohio has announced the hiring of Rebecca Bayley as Director of Development.
      Mrs. Bayley joins the Meridian HealthCare family after serving as a volunteer member of the organization’s Board of Directors.
      Most recently, she was the Director of Admissions and Marketing at Cardinal Mooney High School. While at Mooney, she instituted new admissions protocol, created the quarterly Mooney Messenger magazine, and assisted in increasing the school’s annual fund.
      Previously, Mrs. Bayley worked as Director of Enrollment with the Archdiocese of New York’s Department of Education. There, she oversaw marketing and enrollment initiatives in the Northwest/South Bronx Catholic Schools developing protocol for over 200 schools. Under Mrs. Bayley and her team, applications to Archdiocesan Schools increased 50 percent within one academic year.
      Mrs. Bayley graduated summa cum laude from The Ohio State University with dual honors with Bachelor of Arts Degrees in International Studies and Italian. As an undergraduate, she was inducted into Golden Key, Phi Kappa Phi and Phi Beta Kappa honor societies. Mrs. Bayley earned her Master of Arts degree in Modern European Studies from Columbia University and her MBA from the Williamson College of Business Administration at Youngstown State University with research conducted on the Effects of Price and Service Perception-Expectation Congruency.
      “With the rapid increase in our community’s mental, occupational, and physical health needs, Meridian has experienced a period of sustained growth necessitating an expansion of our development and fundraising goals,” said Moliterno. “Rebecca Bayley brings experience and enthusiasm to serve the core values of our organization as Meridian establishes innovative ways in which to best serve the residents of the Mahoning Valley. We are delighted to welcome her aboard in this new role.”
      Meridian HealthCare is a nonprofit organization dedicated to Saving Lives and Serving Communities. Meridian’s mission is to eliminate addiction by working with individuals and their families through recognition, prevention, consultation, healthcare, communication, support and treatment in a manner that is person-centered and respects the dignity of every person. Meridian works with those in need of help in the Mahoning Valley through its divisions:
       •Recovery, counseling and addiction treatment for those with alcohol and drug abuse problems.
       •Prevention, community education and awareness Programs to stem the tide of addiction.
       •Workforce wellness and testing to promote productivity in the workplace.
       •Collaboration with the courts and law enforcement.
       •Healthcare through an integrated approach focused on behavior and primary healthcare.
     
  Mrs. Jan Brown Elected AMVETS National Commander  
  August 29, 2019 Edition  
Jan Brown
     American Veterans (AMVETS) elected Jan Brown, of Tanglewood Dr., Boardman, to serve as the organization’s 2019-2020 national commander during AMVETS’ 75th annual national convention in Louisville, Ky. on Aug. 24.
      The election signifies a milestone in AMVETS’ history, as Commander Brown will be the first female commander for the organization.
      “I thank my AMVETS family for putting their confidence in me to lead this organization,” said Brown. “I promise that I will always represent AMVETS in the very best light.”
      Every year AMVETS commanders take on a veteran-related project in an effort to bring awareness to certain issues and serve veterans across the nation. This year, Commander Brown’s focus is Save a Warrior, an organization located in Newark, Oh., that provides counseling services in the fields of mental health and wellness, suicide prevention and post-traumatic stress to veterans, military personnel, police, firefighters and other first responders.
      “There are parts of ourselves that the traditional medical model is not equipped to heal or nourish, adding to our suffering, said Brown. “AMVETS works relentlessly to heal American veterans, and I believe through this project, we will continue working to see that veterans are living well, not just ‘un-sick,’ and we’ll begin to curb the national veteran suicide crisis.”
      Like every commander before her, Brown will serve one term. She is determined to hit the ground running once arriving at AMVETS National Headquarters.
      “I’m excited to really work together as an AMVETS family because that’s what we are,” Brown said. “That’s how we’re going to continue to grow, if we include our family.”
      AMVETS, which is also known as American Veterans, is the most inclusive Congressionally-chartered veterans service organization open to representing the interests of 20 million veterans and their families. We are veterans serving veterans since 1944.
      Commander Brown’s husband, John, served as national AMVETS commander from 2007-08.
      Featured speaker at the national convention was President Donald Trump, who spoke before Brown was elected president.
      He acknowledged Mrs. Brown noting, “It’s also my privilege to recognize your national first vice commander, the highest-ranking woman in AMVETS history, retired Air Force Senior Master Sergeant Jan Brown.”
      The president noted “Today we celebrate AMVETS for 75 years of love, and loyalty, and lifelong service to our military personnel, to our veterans, and to their families...
      “You safeguard our values, pass on our traditions, and teach generation after generation to love our country, honor our heroes, and always respect our great American flag.”
     
      PICTURED: MRS. JAN BROWN, of Tanglewood Dr., Boardman, was elected national commander of the AMVETS during the organization’s 75th annual national convention held last weekend in Louisville, Ky. She is the first female national commander of AMVETS.
  ABC Water District Completes Culvert Repairs  
  August 29, 2019 Edition  
     REPAIRS TO A CULVERT ON SOUTH CADILLAC DR. were completed last week by the ABC Water District. Severe issues with the culvert developed following heavy rainfalls in late May when water flows threatened to collapse the roadway, forcing South Cadillac Dr. to close to thru traffic. The roadway is now opened. Reconstruction of the culvert was aided by a special U.S. Army Corps of Engineers permit that facilitated work on the project. Reconstruction was completed by J. Bova Construction at a cost of $100,000. Boardman Township Administrator, Jason Loree, said the reconstruction work will allow water to flow more freely through the culvert during peak rainfall periods.
  Community Day  
  Food Court Parking Lot at Southern Park Mall:   August 29, 2019 Edition  
     Saturday, Sept. 7 from 11am to 2pm
      Featuring Touch A Truck: Boardman Township Fire, Police and more!
      Food Trucks, helicopter landing, community groups & fun family activities!
      For more information visit southernparkmall.com.
  Teenager’s Social Media Posts First Came To The Attention Of FBI In Feb., 2019 In Anchorage, Alaska  
  Justin Olsen Said Posts Were A Joke, Just For Fun:   August 15, 2019 Edition  
     At Boardman High School, Olsen was a member of the
      tennis team, Quiz Bowl team and was an honor student. He was known as a nice young man, quiet and an achiever.
     
      An 18-year-old 2019 graduate of Boardman High School, who according to police has been accepted at the University of Texas under an ROTC scholarship, was arrested last week by federal agents and Boardman police and charged with aggravated menacing of a law enforcement officer/federal agent and telephone harassment in connection with social media posts in which he is believed to have made comments making light of mass shootings, as well as threatening remarks directed at federal agents.
      Justin Thomas Olsen’s social media posts first came to the attention of the FBI on Feb. 11, 2019, when a complaint was reported to the bureau’s Anchorage, Alaska office. “This complaint showed how an 18-year-old Boardman resident was the moderator of an online chat room and was posting threatening information, including ‘to shoot every federal agent on site’” Officer William Woods said.
      Authorities monitored posts reportedly made by Olsen and on Aug. 6, the case file was reviewed by Lt. Rick Balog, Officer Woods and Assistant Prosecutor Michael McBride, of Boardman Court.
      “Prosecutor McBride agreed in light of the recent mass shootings in the United States, we could not wait to act on this information,” Officer Woods said, adding that counsel directed police to arrest Olsen and obtain a search warrant for computers, cellular devices, hate-related literature and firearms at Olsen’s mother Melanie’s residence at 465 Presidential Ct. That same day, Boardman Court Judge Joseph Houser approved the search warrant.
      On Aug. 7, agents of the Mahoning Valley Violent Crimes Task Force and Boardman police forcibly entered the Presidential Ct. home and no one was there, Officer Woods said, indicating that a neighbor told authorities the teenager had just moved into his father Eric’s residence at 724 Oakridge Dr., where Olsen was found in the driveway and taken into custody without incident.
      According to Officer Woods, Olsen agreed to speak with authorities, admitting he created a ‘Discord...page’ and he did post the comment about shooting federal agents.
      Olsen admitted making several posts, “but all of this was a joke, for fun, and the posts were on his ‘shit account,’” Officer Woods said.
      Police searched Olsen’s car and the Oakridge Dr. residence, and were advised by Prosecutor McBride “to seize any item that would give Olsen the means to carry out any shooting or violent event,” Officer Woods said, noting multiple boxes of firearm ammunition and various firearms were seen in the home.
      Taken during the search were a laptop computer, an Ipad, Iphone and numerous handgun and long guns, Officer Woods said.
      Olsen was lodged in the Mahoning County Jail without bond, pending an initial appearance in court.
      According to Officer Woods, on June 2, Olsen made a post saying he was moving to Austin, Texas, and said he ‘couldn’t wait to start stockpiling weapons.”
      A day later, according to Officer Woods, Olsen posted a screen shot of an AR-15 (rifle) and said he may purchase an AR-15 kit.
      On Aug. 1, the FBI’s Anchorage office reassigned the matter to the agency’s Cleveland office, who then sought assistance from local authorities.
      At Boardman High School, Olsen was a All-AAC member of the tennis team, Quiz Bowl team and was an honor student. He was known as a “nice young man, quiet and an achiever”, The Boardman News was told.
      At his initial hearing last week in Boardman Court, , no plea was accepted on the charge of aggravated menacing. Olsen was ordered held without bond until a preliminary hearing on the charge. Olsen entered a plea of not guilty to telephone harassment, did not sign a waiver of a speedy trial, and was held without bond.
      Olsen faced local charges of aggravated menacing a police officer and telephone harassment filed in Boardman Court. Those charges were dismissed after a federal complaint was filed. Olsen appeared in U.S. District Court on Monday. Preliminary and detention hearings are set for this Friday.
      Olsen used the handle “ArmyOfChrist” as his moniker on iFunny, a website where people can posts memes, photos and statements on a variety of topics. There, he told fellow users that he supported mass shootings and attacks on Planned Parenthood, according to an affidavit of FBI agent Themistocles Tsarnas.
  Photos By Whitney Tressel Among Features At YSU’s McDonough Museum  
  August 23 - October 26:   August 15, 2019 Edition  
     The works of three accomplished female artists, Whitney Tressel, Dana Oldfather and Julie Mehrety, will be featured in the fall season opening exhibit at the McDonough Museum of Art on the campus of Youngstown State University. An opening reception is set for 5 to 7 p.m. Friday, Aug. 23, at the museum.
      The exhibits, on view through Oct. 26, include:
       •Whitney Tressel, who grew-up in Boardman, whose works are from her America Still. A travel photographer, Tressel’s photographic talents have impacted such organizations as Google, National Geographic, New York Times Student Journeys, Budget Travel Magazine and Esquire Magazine. For the past two years she has traversed North America solo in her 1985 Toyota Dolphin truck camper capturing a sense of place amongst the diverse sets of American landscape.
       •Dana Oldfather, Cleveland native, whose paintings are part of numerous public and corporate collections and have been exhibited in galleries and museums across the country in Out of the Woods Into the Weeds. Oldfather has twice received the Ohio Arts Council Individual Excellence Award and had residencies at the Vermont Studio Center and Zygote Press. Her work has been exhibited nationally at the Library Street Collective, Detroit, Zg Gallery, Chicago and Kathryn Markel Fine Art, New York. She currently works and lives just outside Cleveland.
       •Julie Mehretu is a printmaker, a MacArthur Fellowship recipient and U.S. State Department Medal of Arts awardee. Her works are titled Excavations. Mehretu has participated in numerous international exhibitions and biennials and has received international recognition for her work, including the American Art Award from the Whitney Museum of American Art. She was born in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia, and currently lives and works in New York.
      The McDonough is open Tuesdays through Saturdays 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. Admission is free. For more information, call 330-941-1400 or visit www.mcdonoughmuseum.ysu.edu.
      Tressel, 34, is a graduate of Boardman High School. She is the daughter of YSU president Jim Tressel; and Carol Zabel, manager of the Diabetes Education Department at Mercy Health; and grew-up on Westport Dr. in Boardman. Whitney left New York City at the end of March, 2017 and immediately started searching for the perfect van-camper-RV-trailer. After looking at more than 30 campers, she narrowed it to a Toyota camper.
      “It made a world of a difference when I could fully stand up straight in what would be my home, car, and office for an open-ended amount of time,” said Tressel. ” When I was down in Florida, I saw the 1985 Toyota Dolphin posted through Auto Trader up in Pennsylvania. I knew even through the pictures that this was ‘the one.’ I bought her (named her Penny Lane) May 1 and hit the road by May 15.”
      Living in a camper full-time was never her dream.
      “I’m often sidelined by folks expressing to me that I’m living their [dream], but for me, it was a pretty natural decision. I’m a travel photographer and road trip producer who was rarely in my New York City-priced apartment, so I thought, ‘why not live on the actual road?’ When I transitioned in the spring of 2017 from a wild and fulfilling nine-year stint in New York City, it was hard for me to pick where to go next.
      “I thought Denver, Pittsburgh, Austin, Los Angeles… but none [of these cities] felt quite right at that time. I figured I’d just buy a cheap camper and explore many places rather than just one. After all, I can theoretically do my job from anywhere. It’s not nearly as glamorous as vanlife makes it look, nor as freeing as I expected, but it’s definitely a special way to live,” Tressel says.
      She says that she loves her mode of transportation, sometimes even more than the destination she’s headed to.
      “Planes, trains, and automobiles alike, I now get to live in my happy place, literally. I’m used to small spaces, know people all around the country, and have already been to 49 of 50 states before this adventure. A friend recently described me as, ‘a professional traveler,’ which I never really thought about and now identify with that description even more so than professional photographer,” Tressel said.
      Asked to share some of her travel highlights from camper life, she noted “The surprises! Arriving after dark somewhere to set up camp having no visual idea where you are is certainly unnerving, but it is so thrilling when you wake to an unexpected, breathtaking scene.
      “That always reminds me of one of the reasons I’m out here---to feel alive and to discover.
      “But can I pick a second highlight? The people. They are a surprise within themselves. One of my heroes, Brene Brown, says ‘People are hard to hate close up,’ and that could not be truer than on the road.
      “The country doesn’t look so kind right now from a broad view---from the couch, from social media feeds, from the ‘he-said and she-said,’ but up close, qualitative and face-to-face, people from every background, race, spiritual belief, political stance, gender and age are so innately kind, and also very much alike. That is another reason why I decided to be in the camper in-country, rather than [go abroad]. I want to experience all of the United States, this time post-divisive election, in detail and in person. So far, for the most part, I’ve found that strangers have been a bottomless well of generosity.”
     
      “Up close, qualitative and face-to-face, people from every background, race, spiritual belief, political stance, gender and age are so innately kind, and also very much alike.”
      Whitney Tressel
  OPINION  
  Thank You, Mr. Ginnetti:   August 8, 2019 Edition  
     Mahoning County Engineer Patrick Ginnetti took for the letter he penned a letter to a Jaronte Dr. resident excoriating Judy Peyko for her “continued manipulation of...facts [that] is not aiding in the solutions to the issues currently being experienced in Boardman,” and her “false and misleading statements.”
      Mrs. Peyko is among a small group of people who have taken issue with local, township government in recent months, and who have received an inordinate and inaccurate amount of publicity from the Mahoning Valley’s mainstream media.
      For example, last week during a meeting of Township Trustees, attended by no more than 27 people, including perhaps a dozen who offered remarks, a headline in a daily newspaper read “Boardman Trustees flooded with complaints.”
      12 people speaking from a community of more than 35,000 people would hardly seem ‘a flood’ of comments,
      And, of those dozen people, at least a half-dozen have expressed political ambitions of one sort or another, and their comments are more directed towards local politics than issues facing Boardman Township. Let’s see---
      Among those speaking was a former Trustee who never completed one drainage project during her tenure in office, whose street was resurfaced during her first year in office, and whose performance was so poor she ran almost dead last in a six person field when she sought re-election. The voters couldn’t be fooled!
      There’s a union official, whose union has bargained in behalf of the Boardman Township Road Department, who frequently criticizes the efforts of the employees the union represents.
      There’s a couple of private citizens whose offerings often have nothing to do with surface water issues.
      There’s a wanna-be candidate who has decried (falsely so) the lack of new construction in the township, then turns around and cuddles-up to those who want a moratorium on new construction here.
      Under Ohio law, township trustees cannot place a moratorium on new construction. That is against the law, yet these few people want their elected officials to act in excepion to Ohio law.
      What kind of representation could public officials provide to their constituents, if they act in exception to the law?
      And, of course, there is Mrs. Peyko, who as Mr. Ginnetti points out, often speaks without facts, merely accusations.
      We note, over the course of nearly a month that the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) and the Small Business Adiministration (SBA has set up headquarters at the Boatdman Township Goverment Center, the numbers provided by those agencies reflect damage at rather minor levels, when compared to events across the country.
      FEMA says it has provdied assistance to 300 people (in Boardman, Canfield and Poland) totaling $450,000, or just $1,500 per person.
      SBA numbers are larger. As of July 22, SBA has approved 16 loans worth nearly $400,000 for Mahoning County residents. These include 15 home loans for approximately $386,000 and one business loan for $13,500. (That averages out to $25,000 per loan).
      All totaled, in the month the federal agencies have been here, 316 people (or households) including a single business, received assistance as of July 22. We are grateful for the help.
      In addition, Boardman Township was awarded a grant for $124,000 to address surface water issues around Huntington Dr., issues that are, by the way, exacerbated by the Ohio Department of Transportation directing water flows from their roadways into the Huntington Dr. area and Mill Creek.
      The ABC Water District and Boardman Township are addressing water issues, as well.
      For example, In Jan. 2019, Boardman Township sought assistance from the Army Corps of Engineers, well before any heavy rainfall. And. the Corps of Engineers indicated it could well be more than a year before assistance, if any, could be received.
      Mother Nature, when she decides to act, is hard to beat.
      Don’t be deceived by the naysayers and their small minions. Local government, county goverment (to some degree), and the state and federal government have provided aid, and are still trying to find ways to provide solutions.
      Like the Army Corps of Engineers, it won’t happen overnight.
  NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING  
  August 8, 2019 Edition  
     NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING
      The Boardman Township Board of Appeals shall hold a Public Hearing on Tuesday, August 20, 2019 at 6:30 PM at the Boardman Township Fire Station, 7440 Market Street, Boardman Township, Ohio 44512, for consideration of the following cases:
      APPEAL CASE AC-2019-15
      Troy Mangrini, 322 Erskine Ave., Boardman, Ohio 44512, property owner, requests a variance for the terms of the Boardman Township Zoning Resolution, effective May 29, 2012, Article V. Residence R-1, Section D. Garages in order to build a garage addition two hundred and eighty eight (288) square feet, that is two hundred eighty four (284) square feet larger than the six hundred and seventy six (676) square foot maximum allowed in the code. The property is further known as LOT 214 60.00 X 174.28 REPLAT OF PART OF LOT NOS 177 & 178 IN INDIANOLA HEIGHTS PLAT, parcel 29-009-0-072.00-0. Said property is zoned Residential, in Boardman Township, Mahoning County, State of Ohio.
      APPEAL CASE AC-2019-17
      Genesis Outdoor, P.O. Box 404, Youngstown, Ohio 44501, property leasee, 8361 South Ave. Boardman, Ohio 44512, requests a variance for the terms of the Boardman Township Zoning Resolution, effective May 29, 2012, Article XII. Exceptions and Special Provisions Section H. Signs and Billboards Letter F. Off Premises Signs-Billboards to reduce the thirty five (35) foot front property line setback an amount to be determined, the side property line setback from twenty five (25) feet to zero (0) feet and reduce the two hundred (200) feet setback from residentially zoned property to fifty (50) feet. The property is further known as LOT 3 50 X 541.49 IRR REP LTS 2-3 P J SCHMIDT P & LOT 2 258 X 205 IRR REP P SCHMIDT PL 1 LTS 2-, parcel 29-050-0-024.00-0 and 29-050-0-024.02-0. Said property is zoned Commercial, in Boardman Township, Mahoning County, State of Ohio.
      APPEAL CASE AC-2019-18
      Charles & Linda Bishara, 7881 7889 Walnut St., Boardman, Ohio 44512, property owner, requests a variance for the terms of the Boardman Township Zoning Resolution, effective May 29, 2012, Article XVI. Administration, I. Conditional Use Regulations in order to reduce the rear setback from forty (40) feet to twenty five (25) feet. The property is further known as LOT 87 120.00 X 222.85 IRR REPLAT OF LOT 87 IN AUBURN HILLS PLAT NO 5 & LOT 88 IN AUBURN HILLS PLAT 6, parcel 29-040-0-387.00-0. Said property is zoned Residential, in Boardman Township, Mahoning County, State of Ohio.
      APPEAL CASE AC-2019-19
      RonJon Investments, LLC., 7901 Market St., Boardman, Ohio 44512, property owner, requests a variance for the terms of the Boardman Township Zoning Resolution, effective May 29, 2012, Article XII. Exceptions and Special Provisions, Section F. Fences in order to erect a privacy fence along the property line in front of the front building setback. The property is further known as LOT 1 474.01 X 1193.16 IRR RON JON PLAT NO 1, parcel 29-033-0-024.00-0. Said property is zoned Commercial and Residential, in Boardman Township, Mahoning County, State of Ohio.
      APPEAL CASE AC-2019-20
      Rick L. McMasters, 166 Maple Dr., Boardman, Ohio 44512, property owner, requests a variance for the terms of the Boardman Township Zoning Resolution, effective May 29, 2012, Article V. Residence R-1, Section D. Garages in order to build a second garage twenty four (24) by twenty four (24) feet. The property is further known as LOT 333 80.00 X 135.00 REPLAT OF LOTS 333 & 334 IN UTOPIA PLAT, parcel 29-001-0-018.00-0. Said property is zoned Residential, in Boardman Township, Mahoning County, State of Ohio.
      Text and maps of the request may be viewed at the Boardman Township Zoning Office, 8299 Market Street, Boardman, Ohio 44512 Monday through Friday, between the hours of 8:00 AM and 4:00 PM, until time of hearing.
      Atty. John F. Shultz, Chairman
      Boardman Township Board of Appeals
      Krista D. Beniston, AICP,
      Director of Zoning and Development
  County Engineer: ‘Writing to set the record straight on your false and misleading statements’  
  August 1, 2019 Edition  
     The following letter was sent to Judy Peyko,
      of 438 Jaronte Dr., by Mahoning County
      Engineer Patrick Ginnetti. Peyko has attended many meetings of township officials this year,
      deriding township and county efforts to
      mitigate surface water and sanitary sewer
      issues, especially following heavy downpours
      on May 28. Those downpours, for example,
      brought the Federal Emergency Management
      Agency (FEMA) to town that set-up a disaster
      recovery center at Boardman Township for
      the past month. According to Gerard Hammind, FEMA public information officer, as of
      July 26, 300 persons living in Boardman,
      Poland and Canfield received aid totaling $450,00 (or $1,500 per recipient) since the agency set-up camp in the Government Center, 8299 Market St. Mrs. Peyko
      Judy:
      I am writing to set the record straight on your false and misleading statements about Mahoning County, Boardman Township and myself. As I mentioned to you in previous meetings and in the attached email from last year, this constant attack of local governments needs to stop as you interpret a lack of a response from me as a validation of your inaccurate and less than factual statements.
      You have chosen to take what is certainly a serious issue caused by several unprecedented documented rain events in Mahoning County communities to unnecessary slandering and un- called for attacking of local elected officials, including myself, on social media with false statements simply because you are not receiving the answer you want.
      (Your email) is completely lacking in factual details and if you read the article you have attached, you would have the explanation of the plant upgrades.
      The Boardman Wastewater Plant is NOT over capacity and the Ohio EPA has ordered the Mahoning County Sanitary Engineering Department to stop introducing effluent into Honey Creek and to pump the waste to the Boardman Wastewater Treatment Plant. Therefore, the department has completed significant upgrades and improvements to permit additional flow.
      Your statement of the plant is operating in excess of the NPDES permitted capacity and contributing to backups is baseless and without any facts of supporting such an irresponsible statement.
      Additionally, wastewater from the New Middletown Plant is not being received by the Boardman Plant currently, another baseless statement lacking in factual support. Boardman will not start receiving flow for several more years and the decision to redirect the flow to Boardman was driven by the Ohio EPA and not Mahoning County not Boardman Township.
      Therefore, the entire email is false and misleading. The facts are the facts and your continued manipulation of those facts is not aiding in the solutions to the issues currently being experienced in Boardman.
      Next, you continue to state that the sanitary sewer system is antiquated and causing you to flood. What investigation have you independently conducted to make a statement the sanitary sewer is antiquated? What criteria did you use to arrive at this conclusion?...
      The Mahoning County Sanitary Sewer system is a closed system meaning clear water is not permitted. The fact that you may or may not back up during heavy rain events proves that clear water in entering the system. You are not backing up today I would presume?
      When Mahoning County officials and Boardman Township officials mentioned this to you, you went on the attack accusing us of “blaming you.” This is not blaming anyone, merely stating the facts, as the City of Columbus has recently done. Have you emailed them and accused them of blaming you?
      Also, mentioned in (a) story on WFMJ Station 21, the City of Columbus is charging residents on their water and sewer bills through fees. This is not a free service they are providing. It cost $80 million to work on 3000 homes in the Clintonville area (a suburb of Columbus) which is approximately $26,666.67 per home.
      You have stated many times in your emails that you are not willing to put any more of your money into your home, so how is a Blue Print Columbus type project going to work for you in Boardman?
      Lastly on this topic, Mahoning County has been and will continue to reline sewers as we have been doing for years (similar to Blue Print Columbus).
      The gate valve program has been in place for nearly 25 years as well. You also stated that your sanitary sewer lateral is clear and in good shape. What would lining your lateral accomplish if this in fact true?
      To date, you have not participated in the gate valve program yet you continue to blame Mahoning County and Boardman Township for causing you to flood. We have been doing and will continue to do our part to operate and maintain our sanitary sewer system. Residents can choose to work with Mahoning County and Boardman Township through the program currently available.
      Rather than blame government, you have a choice, lead by example in your neighborhood by disconnecting your downspouts and footer drains from the sanitary sewer helping to protect your investment with the additional benefit of promoting this to others you speak with regularly. Again, Columbus has stated the very same thing Mahoning County has been stating to residents through articles and the annual newsletter of the department.
      You continue to state that the sanitary sewer backups are causing your basement walls to crack. This is the first time I have ever heard of a sanitary sewer lateral causing structural damage of that nature to a house. I believe you are confused between the differences in storm water, wastewater, drinking water, ground water, rain water, etc. because you appear to be lumping them all into the same category in past emails. As an example, the article you sent on July 17 about the City of Chicago installing control valves is for storm sewer, not sanitary sewer. However, the device would work similarly to a gate valve on your home but you have not chosen to install one nor to disconnect your downspouts and footer drains.
      You mention in an email on July 15 that you spoke to people in the Service Water Division of the Ohio EPA. First, it is the Surface Water Division and the people you spoke to did not blame Boardman Township for sanitary sewer backups as this is a County Wastewater Plant that continues to meet and exceed the NPDES Permit requirements. If all of these issues you are trying to state as fact were true, the Ohio EPA would have been issuing Findings and Orders to the Mahoning County Sanitary Engineering Department mandating corrective action.
      In closing, the constant attacks and bombarding of emails is counterproductive and does not provide solutions.
      The facts being presented by Boardman Township, Mahoning County, FEMA, US Army Corps of Engineers and the City of Columbus have a common theme, consistency and facts. Altering, misstating the facts and coupled with attacking local officials is counterproductive as previously stated consuming valuable time of those you are demanding “fix the problem.”
      To continue to accuse public officials of not being invested in working towards solutions is irresponsible and lacking in a true understanding of the efforts going into working on solutions. Mahoning County continues to effectively operate the sanitary sewer systems with ongoing projects. The department is committed and the commitment of residents is needed to satisfactorily address the issue being confronted by the community.
      Mahoning County has shown you as well as many others what is being done (see attached email). Residents need to understand the efforts being done by the County and Township but need to consider the role they can play in moving the improvements forward on an individual basis.
      Respectively,
      Patrick T. Ginnetti, P.E., P.S.
      Mahoning County Engineer / Mahoning County Sanitary Engineer
     
      “The facts are the facts and your
      continued manipulation of those facts is not aiding in the solutions to the issues currently being experienced in Boardman...the constant attacks and bombarding of emails is counterproductive and does not provide solutions. The facts being presented by Boardman Township, Mahoning County, FEMA, US Army Corps of Engineers and the City of Columbus have a common theme, consistency and facts.”
     
  FEMA Provides $536,000 In Individual Assistance Grants  
  August 1, 2019 Edition  
     UPDATE---Since opening July 12, the Disaster Recovery Center at the Boardman Township Government Center has had over 350 visitors, according to Gerard Hammink, FEMA public information officer.
      Since Mahoning County was added to the disaster declaration on July 2, over 800 Mahoning County households have registered with FEMA, Hammink said.
      As of July 29, over $536,000 in Individual Assistance grants have been approved. Individual Assistance grants for repairs, temporary housing and other disaster-related needs not covered by insurance.
      “For perspective, for the 11 counties in Ohio that are part of this declaration, over 5600 households have registered and over $3.7 million has been approved,” Hammink said.
  Serious Misconduct Cited In Termination Of BPD Dispatcher  
  July 25, 2019 Edition  
     BY JOHN A. DARNELL JR.
      associate editor
      A Boardman Police Department dispatcher, Casey Englebaugh, has been relieved of her duties.
      Records of her job performance were obtained by The Boardman News after a request was made to Boardman Township, and then reviewed by the Mahoning County Prosecutor’s Office.
      Dispatcher Englebaugh’s record first came to the attention of the Boardman Police Department administrative staff on Jan. 3, 2017, when a complaint was lodged that she allowed an unauthorized person into the Mahoning County 9-1-1 center located in the police department.
      According to the complaint, the unauthorized person remained in the dispatch center “for over two hours, and was not on official business.”
      Englebaugh said an off-duty Lowellville police officer came to the dispatch center (near midnight) on Jan. 1, 2017 to bring she and another employee coffee.
      “It never crossed my mind that there would be any issue with it,” Englebaugh said, adding “I think he left around 3:00 a.m.”
      She was ordered to follow all proper procedures, policies and rules, and if she did not meet “expected improvement,” she could face “progressive discipline, up to and including termination.”
      On May 24, 2019, Englebaugh was informed of the findings of an internal investigation into her job performance by Chief Todd Werth.
      “As directed, Capt. [Ed] McDonnell has completed an internal investigation concerning allegations you violated Boardman Police Department policy,” Chief Werth said, adding after reviewing the results, “I have determined that the investigation substantiates that serious misconduct related to policies and directives on your part have occurred.”
      Capt. McDonnell’s investigation determined the Englebaugh “routinely did not assist other dispatchers in any manner during the course of workshifts.”
      “It is essential that the proper operation of the Communication Center be based upon working together and the willingness to work in a team environment. Failure to actively support your peers has a direct result on not only the efficiency of the Communications Center, but also more important the safety of firefighters, police officer and our community,” Chief Werth said.
      “A fundamental duty of a dispatcher is working hand-in-hand with your coworkers in the Communications Center (is) to not only provide assistance, but also act as a second set of eyes and ears to ensure important tasks are completed, promptly and correctly.
      “By choosing to operate in a vacuum and not assist other dispatchers, this process of ‘quality control’ in the center to ensure things are not missed speaks to your unwilligness to perform your duties, or to do so, only when you determine that is necessary,” Chief Werth said.
      Englebaugh was also cited with spending “an inordinate and significant amount of time on personal social media during her work times” that could potentially lead to mistakes; a lack of knowledge of rules and regulations, and as well, a lack of truthfulness “whether under oath or not,” centering around an anonymous letter that was sent to Boardman Township Trustees and their administration.
      Asked about Englebaugh’s termination as a Boardman PD dispatcher, Chief Werth said “We have outstanding employees working here for Boardman Township. We hold them to a very high standard based upon the important nature of their work. In the very rare instances where those standards of professionalism and willingness to work in a cooperative team atmosphere are not met, we are not going to shy away from taking actions to correct the situation. Holding people that work here accountable is an important part of maintaining the trust and support of the community.”
     
  Boardman High School Bans Bookbags In Hallways, Classrooms  
  July 25, 2019 Edition  
     “The presence of enormous book bags in our building and in classrooms creates unnecessary obstacles for both teachers and students. Also, the mere weight of the bags that students are now in the habit of carrying cannot be healthy for their physical development.”
     
      Beginning this school year, Boardman High School students will no longer be permitted to carry book bags or backpacks in the hallways and into the classrooms. A school notification said “Students will still be permitted to carry book bags into the building at arrival time and out of the building at dismissal. This change will bring the high school in line with what all buildings in the district require.”
      “We recognize that this is a change that will require support and assistance. The high school will make time adjustments to the bell schedule to help students make this transition an easy one. Specifically, we are adding additional time to the morning entry period, in between classes, as well as at dismissal time,” the notification, that was only posted on the local school district’s web site said, adding “Student and staff safety are the chief reasons for this change, and we feel strongly that this will improve our day-to- day operations.”
      School Principal Cynthia Fernback penned the following letter on July 1 about the requirement, that is said to have started a petition drive among students who object to the change:
      Dear Spartan Families,
      I hope this letter finds you doing well and enjoying your summer. I wanted to give you some early notification of some changes to our building in effect for the upcoming school year.
      Beginning this school year, students will no longer be permitted to carry book bags in the hallways and into classrooms; instead, students will be permitted only to carry book bags into the building at arrival time and out of the building at dismissal.
      Upon arrival, students will visit their assigned lockers, empty their book bags into their lockers, and organize their books and materials for the day. At the conclusion of the day, again students will visit their assigned lockers and pack their bags for departure.
      We recognize that this is a change that will require some support and assistance. To that end, we will make time adjustments to the bell schedule to assist students in making this transition. Specifically, we are adding additional time to the morning entry period, in between classes, as well as at dismissal time.
      There are several reasons for this change. Chief among those reasons is student and staff safety. The presence of enormous book bags in our building and in classrooms creates unnecessary obstacles for both teachers and students. Also, the mere weight of the bags that students are now in the habit of carrying cannot be healthy for their physical development.
      Again, we recognize that this is a big change in our building’s culture, but we feel strongly that this is necessary. We will also have supports in place to assist students in reacquainting themselves with the whole idea of visiting, opening, and organizing their assigned school locker.
      As always, we thank you for your support.
      Sincerely,
      Cynthia Fernback, Principal
     
  Jeff Barone To Seek Re-Election To School Board  
  July 25, 2019 Edition  
     Boardman Local School Board member Jeff Barone has taken out petitions for re-election to a second term. Barone has served as board president for the past two years. According to the Mahoning County Board of Elections, also taking out petitions for election to the school board are Matt Owens and Cheryl Rudolph. Deadline for filing petitions is Aug. 7. Two seats on the school board, currently held by Mr. Barone and Frank Zetts, will be on the general election ballot on Nov. 5.
  A SURE WAY TO BEAT THE HOT TEMPERATURES  
  July 25, 2019 Edition  
     photo/John A. Darnell jr.
       A SURE WAY TO BEAT THE HOT TEMPERATURES and have some fun at the same time was at the dunking pool last Friday when the Victory Christian Center, Hitchcock Rd. at Western Reserve Rd., held their 2nd annual Victory Fest. Taking a dunking many times was Tao Jones. Upwards of 600 people attended the fest, organized by the center’s children’s pastor, Alyssa Cooper.
  FILL A CRUISER • HELP A STUDENT IN NEED  
  FOR BOARDMAN LOCAL SCHOOLS GRADES K-8 FRIDAY, AUGUST 2, FROM NOON TO 4 P.M.:   July 25, 2019 Edition  
     On Tax Free Friday, August 2, a Boardman Police cruiser will be at Wal-Mart and Target to collect school supplies for students in need. The BPD hopes to fill the cruisers with donations such as loose leaf paper, pencils, markers, crayons, binders, tissue products and other items.
  5.3 Miles Of Roadway Will Be Resurfaced At A Cost Of $706,803  
  July 18, 2019 Edition  
     Boardman Township Trustees have approved $706,803 for the 2019 summer road resurfacing program, funded by $481,803 in local money, augmented by a $225,000 grant from the Ohio Public Works Commission. Approximately 5.3 miles of roadway will be resurfaced.
      The resurfacing will be completed by Lindy Paving, of New Gallilee, Pa. The program is expected to begin in August,
      Streets included in the program are the following:
       •Aquadale Dr., from South Shore Dr. to Forest Garden Dr.,
       •Sigle Lane, from Walker Mill Rd. to Tamarisk Trail,
       •Stilson, from Withers Rd. to Ridgewood Dr.,
       •Gilbert Dr., from Wolcott Dr. to the dead end,
       •Santa Fe Trail, from Sugartree Dr. to Salinas Trail,
       •Ridgefield Ave., from Helo Place to the cul-de-sac,
       •South Commons, from South Ave. to Tiffany South Blvd.,
       •Sabrina, from East Parkside Dr. to Jaguar Dr.,
       •Green Bay Dr., from Glenwood Ave. to Forest Lake Dr.,
       Squirrel Hill Dr., from Hitchcock Rd. to Jaguar Dr.,
       •Tiffany South Blvd., from Rt. 224 to South Commons,
       •Overhill Rd., from Market St. to Glenwood Ave.,
       •Maple Ave., from Southern Blvd. to South Ave., and
       •Park Harbour, from Royal Palm to the cul-de-sac.
  CONCERT/FIREWORKS JULY 27  
  July 18, 2019 Edition  
     Boardman Park’s Independence Day Concert and Fireworks display has been rescheduled for July 27 at the Maag Outdoor Arts Theatre. The Youngstown Area Community Concert Band will perform at 8:00 p.m. and will be followed by a spectacular fireworks display by Phantom Fireworks. This event is a free and open to the public. The event had been scheduled for July 6, but was postponed due to bad weather.
      The Youngstown Area Community Concert Band is an open community band of 60-plus members that began performing in 1984. Band members range in age from high school students to senior citizens. Conductor Joseph Pellegrini, has been leading the band for more than 25 years. He is a veteran of the United States Army, graduate of Youngstown State University, retired teacher in the Austintown schools, and conductor of the Youngstown Area Community Concert Band since 1990.
      “We have fun, and we take our music seriously. We take pride in belonging to YACCB and endeavor to be one of the finest community band programs in northeast Ohio,” says Pellegrini. The Youngstown Area Community Concert Band will be performing some well-known and favorite patriotic tunes.
      Those planning to attend the concert and fireworks extravaganza are asked to bring lawn chairs or blankets. Boardman Park is an alcohol-free park.
  Prosecutor’s Opinion Says Township Cannot Ban New Construction  
  July 18, 2019 Edition  
     According to an opinion written by Karen Markulin Gaglione, assistant Mahoning County prosecutor, township trustees have no authority to ban new construction in the township.
      “The Ohio General Assembly has not enacted enabling legislation to [ban new construction] either for townships or counties, who depend on an express delegation of power from the legislature to regulate land use,” Gaglione opined.
      The assistant prosecutor noted that Township Trustees had been asked by some residents if they could place a moratorium on construction due to flooding concerns.
      “ I understand that Boardman Township has had storm water management practices in palce to the 1980s,” Gaglione said, adding the township “is a member of the ABC Water District and has imposed a storm water utility fee to address storm water issues in the township.”
  RESOLUTION SUPPORTS SPM PROJECT  
  “The project represents a critical step to the continued economic development of the township.”:   July 11, 2019 Edition  
     BY JOHN A. DARNELL JR.
      associate editor
      Meeting on Monday night, Boardman Trustees Larry Moliterno, Brad Calhoun and Tom Costello unanimously approved a resolution of support for a proposed $25 million to $30 million redevelopment of the Southern Park Mall.
      “The Board of Trustees desires to promote the economic development efforts...which will create and retain jobs to the betterment of the township and its residents,” the resolution said.
      According to the resolution, the redevelopment is expected to include the demolition of portions of the mall (including the former Sears anchor store), improvements to interior mall space and the establishment of green space and pedestrian paths.
      “The project represents a critical step to the continued economic development of the township and the expansion of its tax base,” the resolution said, noting the Board of Trustees “is supportive of the project...including...using best efforts to establish a Joint Economic Development District.”
      In approving the measure, Trustees said they will cooperate with Mahoning County, the Western Reserve Port Authority and any other public bodies involved in providing assistance for the project.
      Other Matters
      Trustees adopted a nuisance abatement resolution for property at 1302 Mathews Rd. calling to the site to be cleared of rubbish, junk and debris.
      An expense of $26,526 was approved to provide funding for crack sealing on township roadways. The contract was awarded to Lindy Paving, of New Galilee, Pa.
      Trustees also approved a resolution to enter into an agreement with Poland Township Trustees to resurface Yellow Creek Dr. in an amount not to exceed $10,850.
      Trustees approved a resolution of necessity to place a three-tenths mil renewal levy on the ballot for the Boardman Park District, and a three-tenths mil road and bridge renewal road and bridge levy.
     
  Drainage Concerns Aired At Meeting Of Township Trustees  
  State Rep. Manning Seeks Some $3 Million To Address Surface Water Issues :   July 11, 2019 Edition  
     BY JOHN A. DARNELL JR.
      associate editor
      Following heavy rains in Boardman Township last weekend, upwards of 100 people attended Monday night’s meeting of Boardman Trustees with no less than 20 persons addressing the elected officials expressing their concerns, many seeking a rapid resolution to flooding issues that have plagued the township since the early 1950s.
      Last weekend’s rains were the fourth major rain event to hit Boardaman Township since May 28. One rainfall, last Friday, caused severe surface water flooding in the north end of the township, while the southern portion of Boardman received almost no rain.
      Township Administrator Jason Loree outlined several measures that have been taken to address the surface water issues since May 28, including---
       •Meeting with the Federal Emergency Management Association,
       •Meeting with the Small Business Administration that can offer low interest loans,
       •Approval of a $124,000 grant to improve drainage issues in the Huntington Dr. area,
       •Meeting with the Army Corps of Engineers that is expected to tour a number of ‘water channels’ in the township this week,
       •Developing plans in coordination with the ABC Water District to assess issues and create improvement projects, and
       •Accepting bids to solve a drainage-related issue on South Cadillac Dr.
      Loree also noted about 80 per cent of the drainage projects called for in a 2004 study have been completed.
      Among those attending Monday night’s meeting was State Rep. Don Manning.
      “I know we have a problem and we have to work together to fix the problem,” Manning said, adding “Boardman Township doesn’t have the money to fix it themselves, and Mahoning County doesn’t have the money to fix it.”
      Manning said he has submitted an amendment to the state’s operating budget in an effort to find funding for the problem. He is seeking at least $3 million, Manning told The Boardman News.
      “I have reached-out to Gov. DeWine to try and get money to start working on this problem,” Manning said, urging residents to send him letters and pictures in support of his bid.
      Although Manning didn’t say it at the meeting, some of the proposed funding could go to improving drainage in the Market St. Elementary School area.
      “For ten years, we have been trying to get state and federal funding, and we have been rebuffed,” Trustee Larry Moliterno said, complimenting Manning for his efforts.
      Siman Choudry, of the Small Business Administration, said he was in Boardman “due to the presidential declaration of an emergency.” He said the SBA can offer homeowners up to $200,000 in low interest loans, and some renters could qualify for loans up to $40,000.
      “You have an economic injury, we provide assistance,” Choudry said, indicating the SBA could establish a temporary presence at the Boardman Township Government Center and noting there is an Aug. 19 deadline for claims for “physical damage.”
      During three hours of comments, residents from many areas of the township expressed their concerns and frustrations with surface water and sanitary sewer issues, including on North Cadillac Dr., East Parkside Dr., Jaronte Dr., Homestead Dr., Afton Ave. Glenwood Ave. near Ridgewood Estates, Holbrooke Rd., Oakridge Dr., Glendale, Mill Creek Blvd. at Anthos Ct., Palo Verde Dr., Pioneer Dr., Erskine Ave., Applewwod Blvd. and Sharon Dr. Most of those residents claimed their homes and property had been flooded more than once since May 28.
      Joe Donahue, of 1986 Holbrooke, said he had lived there for 25 years and his homeowners insurance had been cancelled so many times due to water issues, he was having a hard time finding insurance.
      “Who am I going to go to,” Donahue asked?
      Don Craig, of 6535 Glendale Ave., said he has lived in his home for two decades where he has had continual problems with surface water and sanitary sewer back-ups.
      “What can I do, because I can’t sell my property,” Craig asked?
      Township Administrator Loree told Craig his home “might have to go,” indicating it could be purchased by the ABC Water District as a site for a retention system.
      Loree indicated the water district is purchasing one home on Wildwood Dr. as part of an overall plan for surface water mitigation, and Craig’s property could be used for the same purpose.
     
  Demolition Of Sears Building First Step In Renovations At Southern Park Mall  
  $30 Million Project Will Redesign Mall:   July 4, 2019 Edition  
     BY JOHN A. DARNELL JR.
      associate editor
      According to a variety of sources, demolition work at the Southern Park Mall could get underway this month, the first step in a proposed $25 million to $30 million renovation of the shopping center constructed by the Boardman-based Edward J. DeBartolo Corp. in 1970.
      The mall is currently owned by the Washington Prime Group. Lou Conforti, CEO of WP, was in town in early May, discussing redevelop plans with local leaders, most particularly Mr. DeBartolo’s daughter, Denise DeBartolo-York
      “He is very enthusiastic and has some interesting plans for Southern Park,” Mrs. York told The Boardman News.
      In March, Conforti released a statement saying that “Our promise is that we will make Southern Park Mall as dynamic as ever and maintain its longstanding presence as a gathering place to shop, play, eat and drink. We are in active planning and negotiations for redevelopment alternatives, including new entertainment and dining options, as well as local, regional and national tenancy, which provides differentiated goods and services.”
      WP’s legal team was in town last week and met with Boardman Township Administrator Jason Loree, reviewing preliminary plans for the proposed redevelopment. They reportedly include the construction of a two-story Planet Fitness, the development of a large area of green space that could include an outdoor amphitheater, and a redesign of traffic flow patterns, a potential community bike trail, as well as upgrades to the mall’s storm water management system.
      Additionally, there have been recent discussions with the Boardman Fire Department regarding demolition plans for the former Sears department store.
      A key element in the redevelopment plans proposed by WP is the creation of a Joint Economic Development District (JEDD) that would allow for an income tax imposed on employees of stores in the mall, and that would help offset renovation costs.
      A Joint Economic Development District (JEDD) is an arrangement in Ohio where one or more municipalities and a township agree to work together to develop township land for commercial or industrial purposes. The benefit to the municipality is that they get a portion of the taxes levied in the JEDD without having to annex it. The benefits to the township are that it does not lose prime development land, it can still collect property taxes as well as a portion of the income tax collected.
      To create a JEDD, a municipality and township work together to create a contract. As of this writing, Boardman Township officials would like to form the JEDD with Poland Village, The Boardman News learned.
      Renovation work proposed by WP will be the second major renovation of the Southern Park Mall.
      In 1997, the DeBartolo Corp. merged with the Simon Property Group. Shortly after the merger, Simon made $19 million in renovations at the mall.
      Boardman Township Trustees have been discussing the future of the mall with WP for about a year. They met with the Columbus-based WP firm last winter where they were given assurances the company would redevelop the mall, after the closings of two anchor tenants, Sears and Dillards.
      “The bottom line is we are working with WP to make sure that the Southern Park Mall stays relevant, including the development of more community space. We believe WP is sincere in its commitment to improve the mall,” Larry Moliterno, chairman of Boardman Township Trustees, said.
      Currently the Southern Park Mall occupies more than 1.19 million sq-ft of retail space and it is the largest shopping site in Mahoning County.
  Canine Officer Sumo Will Retire In September  
  July 4, 2019 Edition  
Sumo
     BY JOHN A. DARNELL JR.
      associate editor
      After eight years of duty in serving the Boardman Police Department and the community it serves, Canine Officer Sumo will retire in September.
      Over the past eight years, Sumo has searched hundreds of vehicles, buildings and schools for drug odor. He has assisted in many searches of buildings and other areas for criminals and evidence that the average human senses can’t detect. He’s even been on duty watching over the Boardman Rotary Club’s Oktoberfest!
      Sumo is the second police canine handled by Ptl. Daryn Tallman. His first canine partner, Yuma, was retired in Aug., 2011. .
      Ptl. Tallman notes two events in Sumo’s career that especially stand out.
      “The first is his successful tracking and apprehension of a criminal who ran on foot from an OVI checkpoint on Market St. and into the historic Newport Glen neighborhood after discarding a loaded handgun. Sumo tracked a couple hundred yards, right up to the suspect who was hiding in a window well. The suspect refused to show both of his hands, so for officer’s safety, Sumo grabbed a hold of the suspect’s arm and pulled him out so we could safely arrest him. This person was sentenced to prison time on his felony weapons and drug charges,” Officer Tallman said.
      During another incident, Sumo assisted to the local Drug Enforcement Administration. The canine sniffed a suspect’s vehicle and gave a drug odor indication on the glove box.
      “The glove box was empty, but it was discovered that the air bag above it was removed and a kilo of heroin was located inside this hidden compartment.
      “The agents were ecstatic after searching for so long, and then having Sumo use his nose to locate it in less than one minute,” Officer Tallman recalled.
      In late December of 2011, the Mahoning County Sheriff’s Department attempted to make a traffic stop on a vehicle in the area of heavily-traveled Rt. 224 and Market St. The occupants of the car abandoned the vehicle and fled on foot. After a perimeter was formed by law enforcement and Sumo were called-in to track the suspects.
      While this was going on, law enforcement tried to stop a second car that had entered the perimeter area, and this time the lone occupant and driver ditched the car and fled on foot.
      Sumo picked-up his track and the canine and Officer Tallman found the man hiding in the rafters of a carport on Vineland Ave. This suspect had cocaine in his possession, and was wanted on a warrant for a parole violation for cocaine possession.
      “Officer Tallman was covered in mud and sweat by the time the perimeter was shut down. Due to his diligence and outstanding work ethic, a felon was taken off the street,” Maj. Lenny Sliwinski of the Sheriff’s Department observed.
      Another example of Sumo’s work came a year later, when he helped the Youngstown Police Department flushed-out an armed robbery suspect on the city’s east side.
      As then YPD Chief Rod Foley observed, “Within a short period of time, Officer Tallman and Sumo were able to track one suspect to a Greely Lane home where he was found hiding under a couch...A dangerous individual was removed from our streets...You may very well have prevented future crimes from occurring.”
      “Sumo has visited many local schools and organizations for demonstrations. His work is his play and he loves every bit of it. He will continue living with me and the rest of my family in his retirement years,” Officer Tallman said, also lauding the contributions of South Mill Veterinary Clinic and Harbor Pet Center for their care and food.
      The Boardman Police Department’s Canine Fund was used to purchase Sumo’s replacement. If anyone would like to donate to the Boardman PD Canine fund to help purchase new equipment and additional training courses, donations can be sent to Boardman Police Department, Attn: Canine Unit, 8299 Market St., Boardman, Oh., 44512.
      Ptl. Tallman has spent some 16 years as a policeman with a canine partner.
      He notes the position “allow me the opportunity to experience aspects of police work that I may never otherwise see.
      “It’s always something new, exciting and challenging, and I like to think it keeps me going. We train regularly to stay sharp, so there’s a great feeling of accomplishment when we help find the drugs, evidence, a criminal in hiding or the lost person.”
  Township Gets $124,000 Grant For Repairs To Roadway Impacted By May 28 Rains  
  South Cadillac Dr. Closed For Culvert Repairs:   June 26, 2019 Edition  
      The Ohio Public Works Commission has approved emergency funding, up to $124,000 that will be used for repairs and upgrades to catch basins and the roadway along West Huntington Dr., Boardman Township Administrator Jason Loree said last week.
      Total cost of the work has been estimated at $151,290.
      “Unfortunately, the need for our funding far outweighs our limited resources. Our offer is for reduced assistance,” Linda Bailiff, Ohio Public Works director said.
      The project calls for repairs to 625 feet of damaged roadway, following heavy rainfalls on May 28.
      “The storm damaged the edge of the existing asphalt road, the concrete curb and gutter system, and two of the receiving storm catch basins by eroding and heaving some of the layers of asphalt against the curb/gutter line, and carrying the asphalt down to the receiving catch basin inlet near the intersection with Pheasant Dr.,” Boardman Township Road Superintendent Marilyn Kenner said.
      “Receiving catch basin inlets were also damaged in this section of the roadway due to heavy pieces of concrete and asphalt forced into the inlets,” Kenner added, noting road department crews have made temporary repairs.
      “Interim asphalt and gravel patching is likely to become loosened and result in the same condition under a future, significant storm event because these temporary materials are located in the path of normal runoff flow,” Kenner said.
      Bids for the work are expected to be finalized by August, and work on the project is expected to being in late September.
      In another matter related to the May 28 storms, Township Trustees have closed South Cadillac Dr. to thru traffic in order to make repairs to a sink hole/culvert that opened along the roadway.
      Loree said the culvert opened because water flow washed out sediment underneath the footer of the culvert.
      After emergency bids are received and finalized, Loree said he expects repairs to be completed by mid August.
      In his May Monthly Report, Boardman Fire Chief Mark Pitzer said the “significant weather event on May 28 caused major flooding to central and northern section of the township.
      “Many calls for service were answered ranging from stranded motorists, flooded basements, electrical hazards, car accidents, fire alarms and medical emergencies.
      “This weather event prompted a request for off-duty personnel to assist with increased calls for service.”
      Pitzer said following the storm, Boardman Township worked with the Emergency Management Agency to conduct a damage assessment to seek state and federal funding to assist township residents in recovering from this event.”
  Bids Below Estimates Could Allow For Additional Road Resurfacing  
  Jaronte Dr. Resident Objects To ABC Initiatives :   June 26, 2019 Edition  
     Y JOHN A. DARNELL JR.
      associate editor
      Boardman Trustees listened to four people spout their concerns over surface water issues for more than an hour on Monday night before tackling their regular agenda.
      In addition, a local land owner made brief remarks over the impact of property taxes on his rental sites.
      Acting on an item on the meeting agenda, Trustees accepted bids for the 2019 road resurfacing program.
      Occupying much of the soliloquy on drainage issues was Judy Peyko, of 438 Jaronte Dr.
      Bedecked in a winter coat on an 80-degree evening, Peyko told Trustees her basement has been flooded twice in a one-year period and when repairs are made from issues stemming from heavy rainfalls on May 28, she would be homeless for a week.
      “Who is going to take me in,” Peyko queried?
      Peyko’s home, according to Boardman Township officials, has been inspected by state and federal officials, who have determined her basement floods due to sanitary sewer back-ups. The home has no sump pump and no gate valves.
      Peyko objected to initiatives begun by the ABC Water District that calls for an overall study of drainage issues in the watershed the district serves.
      Instead, Peyko suggested Boardman Township should purchase properties impacted by flooding issues, and she complained about “continuous construction” in the township impacting an “infrastructure that can’t handle it.”
      Peyko admitted she was unaware of several initiatives Boardman Township has undertaken to deal with surface water issues.
      “There is a lot of work that is going on, and has been going on for the last ten years,” Larry Moliterno, chairman of the Board of Trustees said, adding “The professionals will decide the right course of action, the right way to do this.
      “These are difficult decisions we have to make.”
      An unidentified man asked Trustees if Mahoning County government could provide assistance with drainage issues.
      “I will tell you that 60 per cent of their money comes from Boardman Township, so they should react,” Trustee Brad Calhoun said.
      Trustee Tom Costello noted that sales taxes collected by Mahoning County used to be shared among all government entities in the county.
      “[George Tablack eliminated that,” Costello said, adding “We should get some of that money...The county will not give us any of that money.”
      David Cherney, of 412 Gardenview Dr., said he owns commercial properties he rents to local businesses. One site Cherney said he bought in 1998 and paid $6,800 in property taxes.
      “Today those real estate taxes are $12,000. It’s killing me. It’s kind of tough being in business now,” Cherney said.
      Moving onto their regular agenda, Trustees accepted bids for the township’s 2019 roadway crack sealing and road resurfacing programs.
      “Both bids came well under what had been estimated, and that should allow us to resurface at least one more road this summer,” Administrator Jason Loree said.
      Bids for both programs are expected to be formally approved in two weeks.
      An expense of $14,000 was approved in a contract with Shallow Creek Kennels for the purchase as well as training for a new police dog. The dog will come on board with the Boardman Police Department in September and will be handled by Ptl. Darrryl Tallman, whose current canine partner, Sumo, will be retired.
  Mahoning County Relay For Life  
  Held June 15 at Boardman Park:   June 20, 2019 Edition  
     THE FIRST-EVER MAHONING COUNTY RELAY FOR LIFE was held last Saturday, June 15 at Boardman Park. The event far surpassed its goal of $95,000, raising $132,391. Pictured, members of Heather Wright’s team take the traditional first lap during opening ceremonies. Wright, herself a cancer survivor, at right, was the featured speaker, urging patients to never give up, and also use faith in their fight against cancer. In photo, from left, Ashley Buck, Emily Wright, Samantha Tooney, Toni Tricolo, Heidi Buck and Heather Wright.
  Wages, Retirement And Insurance Costs In The Boardman Local School District Will Increase Some $2.5 Million By Fiscal Year 2021  
  Forecast Filed With Ohio Department Of Education Shows:   June 20, 2019 Edition  
     According to a five-year forecast filed with the Ohio Department of Education in May by the Boardman Local School District (BLSD), the local public school system anticipates receiving more than $5.6 million in revenues in 2021, that it reported as actual expenses in fiscal year 2018.
      The report, prepared by BLSD Treasurer Nick Ciarniello, says the Boardman Local School District had ‘actual’ revenues of $44.2 million in fiscal year 2018.
      By fiscal year 2021, the report says ‘projected’ revenues will be $49.8 million.
      During the same time frame, expenses are projected to increase by $2.9 million by 2021, according to the forecast.
      In fiscal year 2018, the forecast shows ‘actual’ expenses of the BLSD were $46.3 million, or some $2.13 million more than the district received in actual revenues.
      The forecast projects expenses of $49.2 million in 2021.
      Despite trends of declining enrollment over the past decade, cost of wages and salaries for the district are projected to increase by some $1.6 million by 2021, while the cost of retirement and insurance benefits are projected to increase by $982,482.
      When combined, salaries and wages, and retirement and insurance benefits for the Boardman Local School District are projected to increase by slightly more that $2.5 million by fiscal year 2021, according to the five-year forecast.
      Following are statements contained by the May, 2019 five-year forecast:
      Forecast Risks and Uncertainty
      A five-year financial forecast has risks and uncertainty not only due to economic uncertainties but also due to state legislative changes that will occur in the spring of 2019 and 2021 due to deliberation of the next two state biennium budgets, both of which affect this five year forecast. Estimated revenues and expenses are based on the best data available...at the time of this forecast. The items below give a short description of the current issues and how they may affect our forecast long term:
       I. Mahoning County experienced a reappraisal update in the 2017 tax year to be collected in FY18. Residential values increased slightly by 1.26% and commercial values declined by .54%. The next update the district will experience a reappraisal in 2020 and [the district] have assumed a 1% modest growth for residential values and 0% growth for commercial values in that update.
       II. HB49, the new state budget continues the TPP Fixed Rate Reimbursement phase-out continuing the language provided for in SB208 that will lower the payment each year by what five-eights (5/8) of 1 mill would raise locally, based on the 3 year average of Tax Year 14-16 assessed district values. The phase out of the Fixed Rate will be complete in FY18. In FY15 the district received $2.5 million in TPP state reimbursement. The state caps [subsidies to the Boardman Local School District that is] not fully funded to help make up for this drastic cut in TPP funds. After FY18, the risk of further TPP cuts is eliminated. In FY19 the state funding formula says [the Boardman Local School District] is owed $3.3 million more than [it is] being paid since being ‘capped.’
       III. The State Budget represents 29% of district revenues, which means it is a significant area of risk to revenue. The risk comes in FY20 and beyond if the state economy worsens or if the funding formula in future state budget reduces funding to the district. There are two future State Biennium Budgets covering the period from FY20-21 and FY22-23 in this forecast. Future uncertainty in both the state foundation funding formula and the state’s economy makes this area an elevated risk to district funding long range through FY23. The Boardman Local School District has projected its state funding to be inline with current estimates through FY23 which...are conservative and should be close to whatever the state approves for the FY20-21 biennium.
      The district will make adjustments to the forecast in November when factual data is available following adoption of the state budget in late June 2019.
       IV. The district has two levies that will expire during this five year forecast period. A 5.9 and 6.0 mill current expense levies expiring in 2021. Both of these levies are critical and are necessary to keep the district financially healthy long term. While all these levies have been renewed before should either fail there will be serious consequences for the districts financial stability.
     
  LEGAL NOTICE  
  June 20, 2019 Edition  
     LEGAL NOTICE
      STATEMENT OF QUALIFICATIONS FOR
      ENGINEERING DESIGN SERVICES
      The ABC Water and Storm Water District intends to contract for engineering design services to provide a storm sewer and watershed masterplan for the entire Stormwater system with Boardman Township. Engineering firms interested in being considered for a contract to provide the required service should reply with a statement in qualifications no later than July 8th at 3:30p.m. Postmarked packages arriving later than this time will not be accepted. Statements received after this deadline will not be considered. Further, submissions that do not follow the outline, or do not contain the required information may be considered unresponsive.
      Statements of qualifications should include information regarding the (1) firm’s history, education and experience of owners and key technical personnel, (2) the technical expertise of the firm’s current staff, (3) the firm’s experience in performing similar work, (4) availability of staff, (5) the firm’s equipment and facilities, (6) references; (7) any previous work performed for and familiarity with the ABC Water and Stormwater District (8) experience with permitting for the USACOE and OEPA and any previous work performed on similar projects, (9) name, title, address, and telephone number of individual(s) with authority to contractually bind the company, and also who may be contacted during the period of submission evaluation for the purpose of clarifying submitted information. Statements of qualifications should be transmitted to:
      Boardman Township Government Center
      8299 Market Street
      Boardman, Ohio 44512
      Attn: Jason Loree
      As required by Ohio Revised Code Section(s) 153.65-73, responding firms will be evaluated and ranked in order of qualifications. Interested firms may request a copy of the evaluation criteria by calling Jason Loree at (330) 726-4177. The project description is as follows:
      Name of Project:
      ABC Water and Stormwater Storm Sewer
      And Watershed Master Plan and Analysis
      The Scope of services will include but are not limited to:
       •Data Collection and Analysis of Stormwater Systems in Boardman Township
       •Model Development and Application
       •Alternatives Development & Evaluation
       •Stormwater Master Plan Recommendations
       •Stakeholder Support
      The Statement of Qualifications must be submitted in the following format:
       •List of similar projects, with references. (2 page max.).
       •List of Subconsultants, if any (1 page max.).
       •List of Project Manager and other key members (2 page max.).
       •Description of Capacity of Staff and their ability to perform work in a timely manner (1 page max.).
       •Description of Project Approach, (2 page max.)
      With Cover Letter, the submittal must be a maximum of only nine (9) pages, using 8 ½” x 11” single sided paper with a 12 point font and minimum 1” margins. Bind each submittal with a single staple in upper left corner only. Resume for staff will not count towards the (9) page maximum. Please provide seven (7) copies. The submission shall be signed by an authorized official.
      This Request for Qualifications does not commit the District to award a contract, to pay any costs incurred in the preparation of a response to this request, or to contract for services. The District reserves the right to accept or reject any or all proposals received as a result of this request, or to cancel, in part or in its entirety, this Request for Qualifications, if the Board deems it in the best interest of the District to do so.
     
  2006 Consent Decree Set Forth ‘Strict Conditions’ Under Which Wagon Wheel Motel Could Operate  
  June 13, 2019 Edition  
     BY JOHN A. DARNELL JR.
      associate editor
      A magistrate has given the Wagon Wheel Motel, 7015 Market St., until June 19 to make repairs to the hostelry, or else it could be permanently closed.
      Boardman Township Administrator Jason Loree said this week any repairs will be reinspected by the State Fire Marshal’s Office.
      The motel has been declared by Boardman Trustees as a public nuisance.
      In May, a Mahoning County Magistrate ruled the motel is a “hazard that is insecure, unsafe and structurally defective” and in “dilapidated condition” serviced by “defective or poorly-installed electrical wiring equipment.”
      Magistrate Dominic DeLurentis Jr. said the motel was so decrepit, “danger is imminent.” He granted a temporary restraining order sought by the Boardman Fire Department “prohibiting occupancy” and ordering anyone staying there had to vacate by noon, Sat., May 25.
      Magistrate DeLaurentis Jr. ordered that the motel remain unoccupied until “necessary repairs have been made.
      “All repairs should be completed pursuant to plans submitted to the Mahoning County Building Department, or other agency or department with jurisdiction.”
      Defendants in the matter are Akm and Nasrin Rahman, of 29 Overhill Rd., and Chirag Enterprises LLC, Chirag Patel, statutory agent, 1715 East Turkey Foot Lake Rd., Akron, Oh.
      According to an official Boardman Township notice dated Jan. 31, 2006, then Administrator Curt B. Seditz announced a consent decree set forth “strict conditions for the allowing the Wagon Wheel Motel to remain in business.”
      In the consent decree, “the owners admitted that the motel is a nuisance under Ohio law and agreed to give Boardman police authority to search the premises for drug activity at any time, without prior notice. They also agreed to strictly comply with all fire codes. And if at any time they fail to assist the police department in the abatement of nuisance conditions at the property, the property will be closed and boarded up for at least one year,” Seditz said.
      In the notice, Seditz said “On July 27, 2005, Boardman police raided the motel following an extensive undercover investigation and arrested the manager and another woman on drug charges. At the time, Sgt. Mike Hughes, supervisor of the Boardman narcotics unit, described the manager’s apartment adjoining the motel office as a ‘flop house’ for smoking crack cocaine. Police said the motel had a longstanding reputation for harboring illegal drug activity.”
      On Sept. 6, 2005, Boardman police obtained a court order temporarily closing the establishment as a nuisance. It remained closed for two weeks, but was allowed to reopen after repairs and a change in management.
      On June 5, 2019, Lt. William Ferrando motel, joining with George Seifert of State Fire Marshal’s Office for an inspection of the premises.
      Their inspection found in eleven rooms of the 21-room facility, “mold was found in bathrooms,” and the ceiling in room #20 showed signs of leaking and “has mold built up.” A toilet in another room was leaking and in need of repairs, the inspector said. Additionally, the roof on the structure showed some signs of leaking, the inspectors said.
      In Dec., 2018, Seifert visited the Wagon Wheel and reported eight violations, including dirty walls and a moldy bathroom. He said in room #1, “bed bugs and cock roaches are visible in the room.” In addition, Seifert said pigeon droppings were found “all over the place.”
      According to records made available to The Boardman News, Seifert inspected the Wagon Wheel twice in early 2019.
      On Jan. 2, 2019, he cited eight violations, two of which had been corrected.
      In room #7, Seifert said the walls were still dirty and the bathroom was moldy, and the pigeon droppings were still an issue, and as well, bed bugs were seen in and on the bed in room #7.
      Seifert returned to the Wagon Wheel on Jan. 15, 2019, reporting the bathroom in room #7 was still moldy, and the room had been heat treated for bed bugs.
      According to records of the Boardman Police Department, police officers have answered 285 total calls to the Wagon Wheel since 2016. Those totals include three natural deaths, three documented overdoses and one death from an overdose.
  ABC Water District Key Factor In Efforts To Improve Drainage  
  Projects Unlikely To Begin Until Next Year:   June 13, 2019 Edition  
     BY JOHN A. DARNELL JR.
      associate editor
      24 Boardman residents who attended a meeting of Township Trustees on Monday night learned that potential projects designed to alleviate surface water issues during peak rainfall periods will likely not get underway at least until next year.
      Trustees Larry Moliterno, Tom Costello and Brad Calhoun listened to concerns expressed by several of those residents for more than two hours, following heavy rainfalls on May 28 that caused surface water problems and closed three sections of Rt. 224, between Market St. and Tippecanoe Rd., and as well impacted businesses on the east end of the Greater Boardman Plaza.
      Before actual projects can begin, an engineering study and storm water master plan must be developed, Boardman Township Administrator Jason Loree said.
      Loree addressed Trustees as a representative of the ABC Water District, saying a master plan “will look at the entire watershed and storm line, before taking action on repairs and updates.” Cost of a study and master plan could be at least $300,000, if not more, Loree indicated, adding the water district currently has limited funding.
      Earlier this year, the water district imposed a fee on township residents. The fee will raise about $900,000 annually, not enough money to complete a study and master plan, and implement a construction program this year, Loree indicated.
      In addition to funding provided by the fee for the water district, Loree said funding for drainage issues could also be provided by state and federal sources. He said federal funding is unlikely and some Ohio Public Works emergency funds could be available after July 1.
      “We are in a pool to be considered for state funds,” Loree said, adding that Boardman Township “had major infrastructure damage to drainage lines and roadways, as well as homes and business” on May 28 when an estimated three inches or more of rain fell in a two-hour period.
      Federal funding could be considered, but only after an assessment is completed by the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA), Loree indicated.
      Eleven residents addressed Trustees on Monday night, expressing concerns that commercial companies blow grass clippings into roadways, too much blacktop in the townships exacerbates surface water flows, and the ‘Boardman Ditch’ can’t handle surface water flows during peak rainfall periods.
      Kathleen Cullum, 4012 Hudson Dr., complained “grass companies blow mountains of grass and tree leaves into sewers. They sit there for days.” Cullum expressed concern that nitrogen from grass clippings could impact water that flows into Mill Creek.
      Mark Fleetwood, 33 South Shore Dr., called for a moratorium on black-topping until a drainage study is completed, claiming some of the worst flooding on Market St. on May 28 was near the Sweeney car dealership “where there is a new retention system.”
      Fleetwood said he was looking for “more immediate action.”
      Bobbie Hosa, 6103 Glenwood Ave., said her property didn’t flood on May 28, but her yard mulch is ruined “everytime it rains.”
      Judy Peyko, 438 Jaronte Dr., claimed storm water and sewer water entered her home on May 28, charging that Mahoning County officials are unresponsive to her concerns, and her street and yard flooded so much she could go “white water rafting.”
      A major area of concern centered on the Boardman Ditch, that flows behind the Cadillac Drives, eventually emptying into Mill Creek.
      “That is one of the areas we want to look at,” Boardman Road Superintendent Marilyn Kenner said, adding the ditch was built in the 1930s by the Works Projects Administration. It was cleaned-up about 40 years ago utilizing summer workers employed by the Mahoning County Employment and Training Association.
      “The ditch is caving in,” Hosa said.
      Another area of concern expressed at Monday’s meeting was the Boardman Lake detention pond system. It gathers water flowing from Rt. 224, eventually releasing the flow in the Boardman Ditch.
      “We need to reconfigure that system and possibly talk to Ohio Edison about expanding it,” Kenner said.
  Boardman High School Senior Abbey Lipinsky Among 15 DeBartolo Scholarship Winners  
  June 6, 2019 Edition  
     BY JOHN A. DARNELL JR.
      associate editor
      The Edward J. DeBartolo Memorial Scholarship Foundation awarded $150,000 in college scholarships to 15 graduating high school seniors from Mahoning, Columbiana and Trumbull counties during ceremonies held last week at Overtures in downtown Youngstown.
      The DeBartolo scholarship winners are determined by academic achievement, community involvement and financial need, and among this year’s recipients is Boardman High School senior Abbey Lipinsky, son of Debra and the late Mike Lipinsky.
      Abbey is not your average high school senior.
      While a middle school student, her father, Mike, died at the age of 40. It was about six months after that, she learned she had cancer.
      She has been battling a rare form of cancer for more than five years, and chemotherapy made her so ill that she could not attend classes during her freshman year, when she was home-schooled.
      During the winter months of her freshman year, home-schooling became difficult too.
      “I was in and out of the hospital because even the smallest fever meant I had to be admitted for observation,” Lipinsky said.
      Eventually the chemotherapy shrunk the tumor to a small enough size that it could be removed in a surgical procedure.
      However, another tumor developed three years later and that resulted in another operation in her senior year that left her hospitalized for three weeks.
      Abbey’s efforts to receive a high school education have not gone unnoticed by counselors and teachers at Boardman High School.
      “Abbey is an inspiration as a student and as a person,” says guidance counselor Richard Smrek, who notes “All throughout her high school years she has had to endure a rare form of cancer called clear cell sarcoma.
      “She has had numerous surgeries and she continues to need rounds of chemotherapy requiring frequent trips to the Cleveland Clinic.
      “Yet, regardless of these difficult times, Abbey has been determined and diligent making-up her work and even asking teachers how she can do more. She truly is the most amazing, courageous and resilient student I have ever had,” said Smrek, who added “In spite of her weakened condition, Abbey still makes an effort to be involved, as a member of the Drama Club, Girl Scouts and in dance and ballet. She has the heart of a lion.”
      Abbey would like to work and offer herself for some volunteer projects, but says she is unable to do so because of her health complications.
      “The Drama Guild has given me a place to have fun with my friends, while giving the community something to enjoy,” she says, adding “It became a place where I could forget my struggles and be truly happy.”
      Her favorite high school teacher is Andrew King.
      “He has been my math teacher for three years in a row, and has never failed to make me smile and laugh every day. He has been extremely helpful and accommodating in allowing me to make up work when necessary and has helped me stay positive, despite my situation,” Abbey said.
      While maintaining a 3.32 grade point average, her circumstances have helped to give her direction for a career in the medical field.
      “From my experiences, I’ve learned that I would like to become a nurse,” Abbey said, noting the DeBartolo Scholarship “will greatly assistme in achieving this goal.”
      The Edward J. DeBartolo Memorial Scholarship Foundation was established 22 years ago, and to date has awarded more than $1.2 million in scholarships.
      More than 350 applications were received for this year’s round of scholarships.
      Speaking briefly at the award ceremonies last week, Denise DeBartolo York said “The goals of the foundation have been to reward worthy students with the opportunity to pursue their education. My father believed that all students who have demonstrated the desire to continue their education, regardless of their financial situation, should be afforded the opportunity to receive a college education.
      “Abbey Lipinsky has shown what hard work and unwavering determination can do.”
      Other 2019 Edward J. DeBartolo scholarship winners are Delaney Baber, Struthers High School; Olivia Batton, Ursuline High School; Rachel Burkell, Austintown High School; Chloe Clear, Jackson Milton High School; Zachary Coman, Liberty High School; Laura Denman, Maplewood High School; Megan Drake, United High School; Anna Finocchi, South Range High School; Gannon Fridley, John F. Kennedy High School; Shae Keeley, Southington High School; Harmony Offenburg, Columbiana High School; Kylie Tullis, Leetonia High School’ Jaycee Ward, Niles McKinley High School; and John Zimmerman IV, Austintown High School.
      Co-chairs of the Edward J. DeBartolo Memorial Scholarship Foudation are Denise DeBartolo York and her husband, John, who are co-chairs of the San Francisco 49ers and who are longtime education advocates.
      “We will continue to provide educational opportunities to deserving valley students well into the future,” John York said.
  ‘Let’s Say Goodbye Together’ At Market St. Elementary  
  June 6, 2019 Edition  
     The permanent closing of Market St. Elementary School will be observed on Sat., June 29, from 10:00 a.m. to noon at a ‘Let’s Say Goodbye Together’ event. The public, especially former students, are welcome. From 10:00 to 11:30 visitors can walk through Market St. and tour the facilities. At 11:30 there will be a short program in the cafeteria/auditorium. At the conclusion of the program, participants will all go outside and lower the flag for the last time. The school first opened in 1950.
  LEGAL NOTICE  
  June 6, 2019 Edition  
     NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING
      The Boardman Township Board of Appeals shall hold a Public Hearing on Tuesday, June 18, 2019 at 6:30 PM at the Boardman Township Government Center, 8299 Market Street, Boardman Township, Ohio 44512, for consideration of the following cases:
      APPEAL CASE AC-2019-10
      Scheetz, Inc., 126, 136, 138-144 Boardman Poland Rd. & 7256 Southern Blvd., Boardman, Ohio 44512, property owner, requests a variance for the terms of the Boardman Township Zoning Resolution, effective May 29, 2012, , Article XVI. Administration, I. Conditional Use Regulations to operate a gas station. The property is further known as LOT3,70X225IRR,NORTHNEWTONFARMPL1, LOT4,75X225IRR,NORTHNEWTONFARMPL1, LOT5,75X225IRR,NORTHNEWTONFARMPL1, LOT3,40X68IRR,PETERS&MCBRIDEREPLAT, LOT2,30X80,PETERS&MCBRIDEREPLAT; LOT 1 80.75 X 80 IRR PETERS & MCBRIDE REPLAT, LOT4,157X114IRR,PETERS&MCBRIDEREPLAT, LOT6,97X312.2IRR,NNEWTONFARMPL1, Parcel 29-005-0-020.00-0, 29-005-0-021.00-0, 29-005-0-022.00-0, 29-005-0-023.00-0, 29-005-0-024.00-0, 29-005-0-025.00-0, 29-005-0-026.00-0, 29-005-0-027.00-0. Said property is zoned Commercial, in Boardman Township, Mahoning County, State of Ohio.
      Text and maps of the request may be viewed at the Boardman Township Zoning Office, 8299 Market Street, Boardman, Ohio 44512 Monday through Friday, between the hours of 8:00 AM and 4:00 PM, until time of hearing.
      Atty. John F. Shultz, Chairman
      Boardman Township Board of Appeals
      Krista D. Beniston, AICP,
      Director of Zoning and Development
  Annual Relay For Life Moves To Boardman Park June 15  
  June 5, 2019 Edition  
     There will be no Boardman Relay for Life this year at Boardman Stadium. Instead, a Mahoning County Relay for Life, combining events previously held in Boardman, Poland and Austintown, will be held Sat., June 15, from 11:00 a.m. to 11:00 p.m. in Boardman Park. All activities will center around the Maag Outdoor Arts Theater and the relay will conclude with a fireworks display tentatively set for 10:30 p.m.
  Boardman High School Athletic Director Denise Gorski Retiring  
  May 30, 2019 Edition  
     photo/John A. Darnell jr.
       RETIRING BOARDMAN HIGH SCHOOL ATHLETIC DIRECTOR Denise Gorski, accompanied by a host of former athletes she coached as head coach of Lady Spartan track and field fortunes marched in this year’s 115th Memorial Day Parade. Mrs. Gorski ended a 42-year career in education this year, including 32 years as a head coach for girls track and field teams.
  Trustees Deny Wagon Wheel Appeal  
  May 30, 2019 Edition  
      Meeting on Tuesday, Boardman Township Trustees denied an appeal to grant an extension to the Wagon Wheel Motel, 7015 Market St., to make structural repairs to the building in order to remain open.
      The business was forced to close last Saturday, and owners of the bussiness were given until June 14 to make necessary repairs.
      A hearing on a temporary injunction that forced the closing has been set for June 6.
      Speaking before Trustees on behalf of the motel was Ken Patel.
      While the Wagon Wheel is dealing with township officials over closure of the business, Mahoning County officials, in particular the Building Inspection Dept., has failed to take action on their order the motel had to make certain structural repairs by May 3, or face court action.
      Additionally, township officials say the Mahoning County Board of Health is not pursuing any action on the Wagon Wheel.
  LEGAL NOTICE  
  May 30, 2019 Edition  
     LEGAL NOTICE
      Boardman Schools Saves Money
      Through its “Retire/Rehire” Program
      As part of the current negotiated agreements between the Boardman Board of Education and its unions (the Ohio Association of Public School Employees Chapter #334 and the Boardman Education Association) an employee may retire from the Boardman Local School District and be immediately rehired for less pay and benefits. There are substantial savings to the Board of Education for each employee who elects to participate in this opportunity. The Boardman Local School District has saved over $4,000,000 since instituting this program ten years ago. At this time, employees wishing to participate in this option can retire and be re-employed for the next calendar year.
      The employee listed below has indicated the intent to take part in this option for the next calendar year. This action will occur at the July 29, 2019, Board of Education Meeting.
      Mark D’Eramo
      Any citizen interested in hearing more details about this provision in the negotiated agreement or wishing to speak before the Board of Education regarding this matter may do so at the June Board of Education meeting. This public meeting will be held on Thursday, June 27, 2019 at 6:30 p.m. at Market Street Elementary School.
  OPINION  
  Township Trustees Act When County, State Officials Slow To Respond To Issues Cited At Local Motel :   May 23, 2019 Edition  
     Last week Boardman Township Trustees Larry Moliterno, Tom Costello and Brad Calhoun unanimously approved a resolution declaring the Wagon Wheel Motel, 7015 Market St., as a public nuisance.
      For many years the Wagon Wheel has been cited with uncorrected violations by inspectors from the Ohio Department of Commerce, Division of the State Fire Marshal.
      On Mar. 28, the Mahoning County Building Inspection Department gave the motel an adjudication order, mandating certain improvements be made by May 3, including corrections to structural issues.
      The history of annual inspections and uncorrected violations cited by the Ohio Department of Commerce were never totally rectified, and the state agency failed to take additional action on the motel. It just made more annual inspections.
      The adjudication order issued by Mahoning County saw its May 3 deadline come and go, and the county, like state officials, failed to take any action.
      It was some three years ago that several residents who live near the Wagon Wheel showed-up at a meeting of township trustees to complain about the facility. Their complaints were lodged after a heroin addict who had been at the motel died in a yard in that nearby residential neighborhood. For certain, that was not the first heroin overdose at the Wagon Wheel, known by state officials for failing to keep proper logs of those who stay at the motel, a practice that is in exception to state law.
      Acting on the recommendation of Boardman Trustees, the Boardman Fire Department also inspected the motel and cited several structural issues. (Bed bugs, a common complaint about the motel, are not in the fire department’s jurisdiction).
      Acting upon the Boardman Fire Department’s inspection findings, (and possibly influenced by police reports that often cited bed bugs), the trustees declared the Wagon Wheel Motel a public nuisance
      We commend local elected township officials who acted when state and county officials failed to do so.
  Southwoods CEO Calls New Facility A ‘Win-Win’ For The Mahoning Valley  
  Pain & Spine Center:   May 23, 2019 Edition  
     Southwoods Health celebrated the opening of its new facility, the Southwoods Pain and Spine Center, 250 DeBartolo Place during an open house held on Sun., May 19.
      “We created this facility to meet the needs of those affected by pain right here at home,” said Ed Muransky, chief executive officer of Southwoods Health. “After talking with our patients, their families and local primary care physicians, we recognized the need to bring these services together at one site at our Southwoods campus.”
      Open house festivities included guided tours, a chance to meet physicians and staff, giveaways and refreshments.
      As one of Ohio’s most rapidly-expanding and award-winning healthcare systems, Southwoods Health remains focused on delivering and enhancing healthcare in the region.
      “We wanted to welcome the community into this beautiful 40,000 sq.-ft. facility so they can see for themselves the highest quality of service and care Southwoods believes in,” Muransky said.
      Inside the facility is about $3 million in equipment---All levels of chronic pain treatment under one roof.
      The Southwoods Pain & Spine Center open house provided visitors with a first-hand look at the treatment the facility that will provide for a variety of pain and spine conditions including neck and back pain, headaches, fibromyalgia, chronic pelvic pain, herniated discs, compression fractures, nerve damage, complex regional pain syndrome, neuropathy, as well as pain associated with arthritis, cancer, joints, muscle spasms and shingles.
      Spine, pain management, orthopaedic and rheumatology physicians, as well as their advanced practice nurses, are offering appointments at the new facility.
      “This expert team is committed to working together to make a difference in the lives of people who are suffering from chronic pain,” explained Muransky. “The center is designed to help patients receive the complete care they need, from diagnosis to treatment, in one convenient location.”
      With this new addition, Southwoods now employs nearly 1,000 area residents, continuing to expand its roots in the community by bringing jobs to the Mahoning Valley.
      “We are a locally owned healthcare system,” said Muransky. “We know firsthand some of the most hardworking people live right here, and we are excited to provide a place for them to work.”
      Muransky called the new facility ‘a win-win for our area.’
      “If Southwoods didn’t exist those patients would go to the Crystal Clinic in Akron, they’re going to Cleveland Clinic, they’re going to UPMC, as they have been, and all of those dollars leave our area,” said Muransky. “So if they stay here. It’s better for the patient, we bring doctors into the community, we employ 150 people just for Spine and Pain, and at the end of the day that means we need more people educated at YSU to fill those jobs.”
      A variety of advanced, clinically proven interventional and surgical techniques are performed at the Southwoods Pain & Spine Center providing comprehensive pain management and advanced spine services, including:
       •Interventional pain management including diagnostic, therapeutic and neurolytic nerve blocks
       •Discography
       •Radiofrequency ablation
       •Spinal cord stimulators
       •Intrathecal pain pumps
       •Medication management
       •Adult scoliosis
       •Minimally invasive spine surgery
       •Cervical discectomy
       •Cervical disc replacement/arthroplasty
       •Cervical spine fusion
       •Complex spine surgery
       •Lumbar fusion
       •Lumbar laminectomy
       •Lumbar micro discectomy
       •SI (Sacroiliac) joint fusion
       •Vertebral augmentation
  115th Boardman Memorial Day Parade/Service Mon., May 27  
  May 23, 2019 Edition  
     On Mon., May 27 the Boardman Kiwanis Club will hold the 115th Memorial Day Parade and Service. Organizing the parade and service is Kiwanian Stephanie Landers.
      LTC Christopher Dobozy, Command Inspector General of the 352nd Civil Affairs Command at Ft. George G. Meade, Maryland, and Bronze Star recipient, is the grand marshall and featured speaker at the parade and memorial service.
      William Wainio will give the invocation. LTC (ret.) Bill Moss, will lead the pledge of allegiance and place a wreath in honor of deceased veterans. Mark Luke, of the Boardman Kiwanis, will serve as master of ceremonies for the service in Boardman Park. The Boardman Spartan Marching Band, under the direction of Tom Ruggieri, will march in the parade and provide music for the memorial service.
      Groups participating in the parade will assemble at the Center Intermediate School at 9:30 a.m. and the parade will begin at 10:00 a.m.
      LTC Christopher S. Dobozy
      LTC Dobozy is a Boardman native, an Eagle Scout from Boardman’s Troop 46; a 1989 graduate of Boardman High School, a 1996 graduate from Youngstown State University ROTC Program with a bachelor of arts in geography.
      He enlisted in the United States Army in 1992 and was stationed as an infantryman at Ft Campbell, Ky. Upon receiving a Green-to-Gold scholarship, he returned home and received his commission.
      After college, he attended flight school at Ft Rucker, Ala. and was stationed in Landstuhl, Germany as a Medical Evacuation (DUSTOFF) pilot. While in Germany, he was deployed to Slovonski Brod, Croatia in 1998 and then to Camp Bondsteel, Kosovo in 1999.
      Upon his return to the United States, he served as the Maintenance Officer for the 54th Medical Evacuation Company (Air Ambulance) at Fort Lewis, Wash. where he deployed to Operation Iraqi Freedom in 2003.
      LTC Dobozy then entered the Army Reserve where he held positions as Assistant Professor of Military Science at Seattle University, University of Vermont and the State University of New York at Plattsburgh; Operations Officer of the 339th Combat Support Hospital in Erie, Pa.; Commander Alpha Company, 414th Civil Affairs Battalion and Executive Officer 414th Civil Affairs Battalion in Southfield, Mich.
      LTC Dobozy is currently the Command Inspector General of the 352nd Civil Affairs Command in Ft. Meade, MD.
      His civilian job is as an Air Interdiction Agent for Customs and Border Protection at the Great Lakes Air and Marine Branch in Selfridge, Mich.
      His awards and decorations include the Bronze Star, Air Medal, Meritorious Service Medal, Army Commendation Medal with 4 Oak Leaf Clusters, Army Achievement Medal, Aviator Badge, Parachutist Badge, and the Air Assault Badge.
      LTC Dobozy completed the Medical Service Officer Basic Course, the Infantry Captains Career Course and is a graduate of the Army Command and General Staff College.
      He and his wife, Liesl, and have two children; Cheyanne, a senior at The Ohio State University and Carson, a sophomore at Michigan State University.
     
  BEST FRIENDS REUNITED  
  May 16, 2019 Edition  
     Former Houston police officer Richard Kamperman, at left, and his former partner of six years, Ron Cortez, at right, were reunited this week in Washington, D.C. as part of National Police Week observances. On Feb. 28, 2017, Kamperman, a 1996 graduate of Boardman High School, and Cortez were checking a southwest Houston neighborhood for a burglary suspect. Nearing the end of their sweep through the neighborhood, they were checking a shed when shots broke out and Cortez, who has a wife and four children, was struck four times at close range, leaving him paralyzed. Kamperman escaped injury. The National Police Week observances honors policemen killed in the line of duty, and candlelight ceremonies held on Monday attracted upwards of 40,000 people. Last year, 228 officers died in the line of duty. According to the FBI, more than 50,000 police officers last year were assaulted while on duty. Shortly after his partner was shot, Kamperman retired from the HPD and returned to the Mahoning Valley to work in his family-owned business, Compco Industries, that annually creates art work memorializing each fallen officer. Over the past decade, more than 2000 plaques have been presented to families of fallen officers. Pictured, ‘Kamp’ and Cortez tour Arlington National Cemetery. Recalling the events of Feb. 28, 2017, Cortez’s wife, Sheri, said of Kamperman, “No greater love than a man who would lay down his life for his brother. I am blessed to know this hero, who ran into danger to save his brothers, family and community. He will never say these words, he doesn’t think he is a hero, but I know better.”
  TRUSTEES DECLARE WAGON WHEEL MOTEL IS A PUBLIC NUISANCE  
  May 16, 2019 Edition  
     Meeting on Monday night, Boardman Trustees unanimously approved a resolution declaring the Wagon Wheel Motel, 7015 Market St., as a public nuisance.
      The motel has been cited numerous times over the past eight years by the Ohio Department of Commerce/Division of the State Fire Marshal with a variety of violations during annual inspections, including failing to maintain fire and life safety systems, bed bugs, poor interior conditions of rooms, structural issues and even pigeon droppings and nesting in some exterior areas of the decaying building.
      On Mar. 28, Lt. William Ferrando Jr., of the Boardman Fire Department, and Jeffrey Ursoseva, chief building official of the Mahoning County Building Inspection Department, visited the Wagon Wheel where they concluded the condition of interior walls and floors were deteriorating, the roof showed some signs of deterioration and there was minor structural instability, and also said the motel had no operational fire system.
      Uroseva said the Wagon Wheel had 30 days from the date of the Mar. 28 inspection to appeal the findings. The Wagon Wheel was then issued an adjudication order.
      “To comply with this order, the following must be completed within 30 days (by May 3),” Uroseva said, noting walkways, driveways and entrances where structural deterioration is evident must be secured, plans had to be submitted to any needed repairs and if the plans were approved, all work had to be inspected.
      “If after 30 days the corrections have not been made, or an appeal has not been filed,” Uroseva said he would take the necessary steps “to have the courts order the occupants to vacate the building...[then] prove the building is safe for habitation.”
      Under terms of the abatement order, the Wagon Wheel could lose its occupancy permit that is issued by Mahoning County.
      According to Boardman Fire Chief Mark Pitzer, the Wagon Wheel has filed no appeal of the abatement order.
      While a May 3 deadline has passed with no further word from county officials, the resolution unanimously approved by Trustees Larry Moliterno, Tom Costello and Brad Calhoun on Monday night, gives the Wagon Wheel another 30 day window to appeal that decision.
  County, Township Officials Cite Unsafe Conditions At Motel  
  May 9, 2019 Edition  
     Following inspections completed in early April by the Mahoning County Building Department and the Boardman Fire Department, the Wagon Wheel Motel, 7015 Market St., has been ordered to make structural repairs, or it could be closed down.
      If repairs are not made, the motel’s occupancy permit could be revoked, Boardman Fire Chief Mark Pitzer said this week.
      The fire chief said the roof on the motel is deteriorating and could pose a safety issue to the public, or to fire-fighters who could be could called there in an emergency situation.
      Jeffrey Uroseva, chief building official of the Mahoning County Building Inspection Department, said a portion of facia at the motel is rotted and deteriorating and ordered Akm and Nasrin Rahman, of 29 Overhill Rd., 30 days to “secure walkways, driveways and entrances where structural deterioration is evident so the public is not in any danger, submit engineered or architectural plans for approval for any needed structural repairs, as well as obtain all required inspections.”
      The Rahmans were ordered to complete the work by Fri., May 3.
      An inspection completed by Boardman Fire Department Lt. William Ferrando Jr. said that interior walls and floors at the motel are deteriorating, and there is no operational fire alarm system and sprinkler system, and that housekeeping is rated as “poor.”
      Ferrando’s evaluation form listed the owner of the motel at Chirag Enterprises LLC.
      According to records obtained by The Boardman News, the Ohio Department of Commerce, Division of the State Fire Marshal, has inspected the motel no less than 44 times since 2011, including reinspections to determine if violations had been corrected.
      Inspections
      On Dec. 21, 2011, Inspector Bryant Tierney, of the Ohio Dept. of Commerce (ODC) reported he completed his annual inspection at the Wagon Wheel Motel where found 19 violations that were not corrected within 14 days.
      The Wagon Wheel was ordered to remove any and all combustible waste accumulation from “within building, on the buildings or on the premises,” most notably under awnings.
      In four rooms of the 21-room motel, Tierney said “The bedding (mattresses/box springs) and bed linens...are dirty and stained with unknown substance and are generally in unsanitary condition.” He also noted that extension cords were being used as a substitute for permanent wiring and ordered that practice to stop.
      The citations noted in Tierney’s Dec. 21, 2011 report had been corrected by Jan. 23, 2012, according to the state inspector.
      Tierney again gave the Wagon Wheel an annual inspection in Oct. 2012, at which time he said the pillow cases in one room were unsanitary; and as well cited several potential fire code violations.
      Tierney also advised “No guest shall be permitted to stay in a guestroom for more than 30 days. Anyone that is not compliant to this rule shall be made to meet this requirement. Within seven days, that requirement had not been met,” adding that “corrections were made by Oct. 25, 2012.”
      The Wagon Wheel’s 2013 annual report says four fire alarms systems failed to function properly, and that issue was corrected.
      The ODC’s 2014 annual report, conducted in October, cited five violations that went uncorrected, including electric motors and appliances that were not maintained free from excessive accumulations of debris, non-maintenance of fire extinguishers, lack of a guest registry, and failure of new ownership to renew the motel’s license. Those issues were eventually corrected, according to ODC records.
      In June, 2015, Tierney made an annual inspection at the Wagon Wheel, finding 14 violations, including dirty pillows and curtains, use of one room for a manager’s apartment, electrical hazards, improper use of extension cords,, paint peeling on outside windows, a hole in the ceiling of one room, deteriorating wood, unclear and non-current records, a hole in a wall of a bathroom where a wall bowed-in “drastically” next to the toilet, and excessive accumulation of brush outside the building.
      Tierney again told the Wagon Wheel that “no guest shall be permitted to stay in a guestroom for more than 30 days,” noting “In room #16, Donald Timlin advised me he has been here for three months already.”
      In June, 2016, Tierney said he was at the Wagon Wheel for an inspection and found a heavily-soiled carpet in one room, and checked three rooms for bed bugs, reporting he found a single dead bed bug in one room.
      Tierney was back at the motel in Aug., 2016 and noted a requirement that all bedding, carpets, linen and equipment had not been kept in a sanitary condition as required by the Ohio Revised Code. Tierney said a wall was moldy in one room and in another room, where a bed bug was located, the occupant of the room did not complain, but “the owner is moving the guest immediately.” By Dec. 19, 2016, Tierney said the issues in the two rooms still had not been corrected.
      Tierney returned to the motel in late Apr., 2017 on two complaints about bed bugs.
      He said on Apr. 14, 2017, a female identified as Ms. Anderson, stayed in room #14 and said she observed three or four live bed bugs.
      “She decided not to stay for the night, informed the front desk, they offered to switch rooms, but she declined,” Tierney said.
      The inspector also noted on Apr. 16, 2017, a female identified as Ms. O’Neill stayed in room #12.
      “She checked the bed upon entering and found bed bugs. Went to the front desk to inform them. They looked at the room and saw the bed bugs. [The manager] tried to put [O’Neill] in room #18. In this room the ceiling is falling apart and there is dirty furniture. Ms. O’Neill checked out,” Tierney reported.
      On Aug. 7, 2017, Tierney said a woman identified as “Ashley and her family stayed at the Wagon Wheel last night. ..Ashley’s daughter woke up in the night and there were bed bugs all over her bed. They went to the front desk and were given clean sheets, but they wouldn’t move them to another room.” Inspecting the room on Sept. 6, 2017, Tierney said he could find no evidence of bed bugs.
      In Mar., 2018, ODC Inspector George Seifert visited the Wagon Wheel, citing seven violations, including improper use of extension cords. He also said he found mold on the ceiling and water stains in one room, a smoke detector missing from a room and “bedding (mattresses/box springs) and bed linen in numerous guest rooms are dirty and stained with unknown substances and are generally in unsanitary conditions,” specifically citing bed bugs.
      “The bed bug complaint has no paperwork to show they have been treated,” Seifert said.
      In Dec., 2018, Seifert visited the Wagon Wheel and reported eight violations, including dirty walls and a moldy bathroom. He said in room #1, “bed bugs and cock roaches are visible in the room.” In addition, Seifert said pigeon droppings were found “all over the place.”
      According to records made available to The Boardman News, Seifert inspected the Wagon Wheel twice in 2019.
      On Jan. 2, 2019, he cited eight violations, two of which had been corrected.
      In room #7, Seifert said the walls were still dirty and the bathroom was moldy, and the pigeon droppings were still an issue, and as well, bed bugs were seen in and on the bed in room #7.
      Seifert returned to the Wagon Wheel on Jan. 15, 2019, reporting the bathroom in room #7 was still moldy, and the room had been heat treated for bed bugs.
  ZONING CODE UPDATE  
  “Standards developed in 1948 may not apply to today”:   May 2, 2019 Edition  
      In an effort to revise the Boardman Township Zoning Ordinance, first developed and instituted in 1948, a ‘Building a Better Boardman’ survey was taken in late February seeking input on a variety of topics considered for ‘updating.’ Upwards of 1,000 persons took the survey.
      The Boardman Zoning Ordinance has had several minor revisions since it was first instituted, with the only major revision coming in the early 2000s, when Site Plan Review was developed.
      “We are trying to revise the current ordinance to provide a balance between a business-friendly community and what residents want,” Planning/Zoning Director Krista Beniston said, noting the zoning code needs to be updated to address the changing needs of the community, to make sure it remains a vibrant place to live and work.
      “Standards developed in 1948 may not apply to today,” she added.
      Following are excerpts from the survey, tabulated by the consulting firm of Turning Point, of Blue Ash, Oh. Those excerpts include a host of comments that were collected and that do not necessarily address the functions of the zoning ordinance, but to reflect concerns of the people who responded to the survey.
      For example, some respondents noted they wanted no Section 8 housing in Boardman. Such housing is governed by federal mandates, not the township zoning code.
      Additionally, many respondents expressed a dislike for cheap motels on Market St. Such sites appear to be regulated by codes enforced by the State Fire Marshal’s Office, with some more limited input from local police and fire departments, and the county board of health.
      Sometime later this year, after a first draft of proposed changes to the Boardman Zoning Ordinance is competed, a community forum will be held to discuss the change and receive additional input from resident and businesses, Beniston said.
      ZONING QUESTIONS/ANSWERS
       Question: Do you think that people should be allowed to have up to five chickens (no roosters),
      rabbits, or other small farm animals, on residential lots? 992 responded. 51 per cent thought people should be allowed to have chickens, 49 per cent were against such a measure.
       Comments:
       •Boardman Township is very built out with a large number of smaller lots and residential-only
      subdivisions and any raising of farm animals is only appropriate on very large farms, or outside of the township.
       •The raising of livestock would only be okay if located on larger lots in the township with controls to address the smell, noise, and care of animals so that the lots continue to be well-maintained.
       •There is a need for limitations on the number and size (no pigs, goats, cows, horses, or similarly large livestock animals) and strong regulations for maintenance but any regulations need to be
      fully enforced.
       •Keep the regulations as they are now currently, do not make any additional changes.
       •Small livestock should only be allowed if the animals can be maintained indoors (e.g., rabbits but no chickens).
       •Raising of chickens and rabbits should be similar to people having dogs and cats.
       •There is a definite need to control animals that will create a noise nuisance.
       •The township should not be allowed to regulate what people do with their own properties as long
      as it does not create a nuisance for their neighbors.
      Important Note on this Question: Townships in Ohio have limitations on what they can regulate as far as it relates to agricultural uses, based on state law. From the standpoint of the Ohio Revised Code, agricultural uses including the raising of farm animals, regardless of the size of the animal. Agricultural uses on lots that are five acres or more are exempt from zoning, and as such, the township cannot regulate the raising of chickens, rabbits, or even larger farm animals on these large lots, including not being able to regulate setbacks, fencing, structures, etc. For properties that are between one and five acres, the township has some limited ability to regulate where structures (e.g., coops, pens, fencing, etc.) are located but cannot outright prohibit the raising of livestock. It is for properties that are less than an acre that the township has the authority to fully regulate agricultural uses such as the raising of chickens and rabbits.
       Question: How much do you agree with the statement that “Boardman Township should substantially increase the design standards for the construction of any new buildings (architecture,
      landscaping, site design, etc.). 103 people responded to this question.
       Comments:
       •The township should focus on maintenance and vacancy issues over focusing on minor design element (e.g., shingles or roof design).
       •This is a township and not a city.
       •Requiring better designs should have been done during the township building boom and will not be as effective.
       •Regulations are too arbitrary now and they need to be more evenly applied.
       •There are already too many regulations and too many requirements that already put a burden on business or home owners.
       •The design of buildings should not be regulated by the government.
       •Consider improvements to public areas, including burying utility lines.
       •Focus on infrastructure, traffic, and flooding issues first.
       •New development is looking good in the township and the township should encourage reinvestment and improvements.
       •We need better looking development.
       •Don’t get to a point where buildings will be all cookie cutter in design. Part of the nice part of
      Boardman Township is there are a lot of unique buildings.
       •Regulations should be reasonable.
       •Improve standards for signs.
       •Increase green space and landscaping.
       •Regulations are chasing businesses away.
       •Design standards would be good but not if they will raise taxes.
       Question: How much do you agree with the statement that “Boardman Township should enhance current design standards for new buildings but should not be too restrictive as to burden property owners.
       Comments:
       •The township should focus on filling current abandoned or vacant buildings first before encouraging new buildings.
       •This question is too vague to be able to fully answer.
       •Take control of the signage, which is an eye sore along the highways.
       •Allow people to do whatever they want as long as it complies with the building codes.
      Important Note on this Question: There appeared to be confusion about the question as it
      relates to zoning regulations versus property maintenance (e.g., tall grass, paint condition, etc.). The Building a Better Boardman project is an effort to update the township’s zoning regulations and will not include changes to the property maintenance codes. However, all comments related to both zoning and property maintenance were incorporated into the themes noted above and may be considered for future changes to the property maintenance code.
       Question: How much do you agree with the statement “Boardman Township should place a
      priority on filling vacant buildings rather than focusing on the design of buildings.
       Comments:
       •There should be incentives to construct on vacant lots because vacant lots bring in less tax revenue.
       •Eliminate vacant building if the landowners do not maintain or refurbish or if they remain vacant
      for an extensive amount of time.
      slow” signs for streets with children. People speed down our street (Redwood Trail) and use it as a shortcut to go to the mall, St. Charles, Market and 224. Please also see that the mall is developed or it will further deteriorate the township.
       •Get rid of Section 8.
       •Do something about Salinas Trail, i.e. doors propped open with cement blocks for years is just one example on that eyesore of a street.
       •I think that as we progress to better building standards more businesses will be attached to the
      area. New constructions looks great but we also need to focus on existing buildings and work on
      filling vacant lots and buildings. Possibly offering some sort of tax break to attract new business to the area. I feel that we can attach new business
      that is not in the area yet if existing buildings are
      updated and the 224 corridor traffic conditions are improved, as well as traffic conditions on secondary roads such as Western Reserve and Shields.
       •I stopped in to get a fence permit from Krista Beniston (soning/planning director), in talking to her she advised me that the fencing guidelines for the township ship are from 1948. How about we get off our tails and bring the township up to speed with the rest of the world? You want to allow small farm animals but your regulations for fencing are spread across three different books. How about bringing the sewer system up to modern standards?
       •Fewer apartments and rentals and more residential homes.
       •Please remove hotels on Market St. Also, why are single dwelling homes allowed to have multiple people living there, like homes by Mizu restaurant?
       •Improve the drainage so that home and businesses don’t flood so easily.
       •Get rid of Wal-Mart. It’s trash. Police are called
      there daily for theft. I think if you have reoccurring issues (then) they must hire a police officer to be there at all times. Also if theft or issues occurs then the fines should be $1500 for the thief and $500 for the problem store. The system in place now does not work. Police are wasting their taxpayers’ time having to deal with these issues.
       •Worry about what will happen to the Market Street school sitel. Love Boardman and want
      it to stay a great place for all.
       •Eliminate the Market St. motels.
       •My main concern is the empty buildings in
      Boardman.
       •Just get rid of the horrendous motels on Market St. and Rt. 224
       •I encourage someone to assess the neglect along the open drainage trench that extends from Euclid Blvd. along Yarmouth Lane.
       •I think the motels on Market St. needs to be addressed. Not sure if that is a zoning issue or the
      sites themselves becoming a nuisance to the community issue for the police to address.
       •Fix the drainage problems.
       •I would like to see the motels on Market St., north of Rt. 224 to be rezoned and shut down. There is too much effort involved to keep trouble out of this area because of these “projects.” It’s obvious people there are unemployed and polluting the area. This will be the demise of Boardman...
       •I think residents should be allowed to have vegetable gardens, and a small amount of smaller
      farm animals on their property as long as there is
      good husbandry. New building s is the area should
      kind of match present buildings in architecture and landscape. Parking areas should allow for greenery and areas where animals can live in.
       •What is the plan for the Southern Park Mall? Are you just going to let businesses move out? (Editor’s note: What businesses close is not the jurisdiction of Boardman Township govenrment).
       •Improve the walkability of Boardman where
      possible. Adding sidewalks where there are none.
      Better bus stop signage.
       •Please cleanup/update the old gas station on the
      corner of Parkside and 224. It really brings down
      the look of the nice neighborhood behind it.
       •No section 8 housing of any kind.
       •Get rid of the slum motels on Market St that has pulled down the neighborhood and attracted crime.
       •North side Boardman has too many single family rentals with landlords that do not maintain property. My neighborhood has changed drastically because of this and my property value goes down no matter how much I improve my home. Last month a home at the end of my street was auctioned with a starting bid around $5000 because of back taxes. Why was the house not sold
      before so many years of back taxes were owed? What will that do to my property value? What incentive do the current property owners have to invest in their property. The value of my home has come down and my taxes have gone up quite a bit. The more our homes decrease in value just invites investors to purchase them and use them as rentals that they don’t maintain.
       • I wish...Boardman can regulate Pokemon go at Boardman Park.
     
      Comments:
       •These uses will only create more flooding, traffic, and other problems.
       •Section 8 housing should not be allowed in the township.
       •There is no space for this in the township unless you consider areas for redevelopment including currently vacant buildings.
       •These uses are already here, just with different designs.
       •We have enough of this type of development.
       •As long as there is additional greenspace provided.
       •Appropriate as long as it is not inside subdivisions or developments that are primarily single family detached housing.
       •We need senior-only developments in the township.
       Question: Are apartment buildings with multiple floors (18+ units per acre) acceptable? 70 per cent did not favor this concept.
       Comments:
       •Boardman Township is a suburb and we do not need this.
       •These uses will only create more flooding, traffic, and other problems.
       •Section 8 housing should not be allowed in the township.
       •There is no space for this in the township.
       •These would be appropriate in areas close to businesses or in very select areas of the township.
       •We have enough of this type of development.
     
      CONCLUDING COMMENTS
       Question: Do you have any final comments regarding what the township should be doing to improve the zoning in Boardman Township?
       Comments:
       •Prevent obscene signs.
       •Make sure politicians remove their political signs after elections.
       •Landlords should be required to register, and maintain the exterior. Many homes on Glenwood,
      Oregon Trail are rentals, and the exterior flower beds, and grass are not maintained. Brings down
      the value of the whole area. Also, noticed some homes back in Presidential yards and flower beds are not maintained.
       •More enforcement on the multi-family establishments. Some of these places are really gross and terrible looking. The appearance of no one caring makes those living there not care either.
       •All trash cans/dumpsters should not be able to be visible from any road. Sidewalks and bike lanes should be a priority.
       •Every resident should keep their properties neat and tidy. Cars should not be parked and not moved for months!
       •There is too many motels that really need cleaned.
       •I understand every business wants to be noticed
      and looking for that edge but 224 is too busy with
      too many accidents as it is and does not need something more to take the attention of the driver
      away from the road.
       •Get on the landlords to fix the property up. They allow trash to move in and it is not good
       •Need to place some type of stricter format for landlords that own housing in our neighborhoods.
      Possibly maintaining them so they don’t become an eyesore in our neighborhoods.
       •Boardman should be more invested on filling the vacant buildings and shutting the drug houses
      down.
       •I would like to see every street have a sidewalk on at least one side. And they need to be maintained better. Businesses should be required to install public sidewalks and along they’re Street fronts especially along Rt. 224 and South Ave. Also there should be some kind of plan to get all of the utility poles switched to ‘underground’ for the long term...Old telephone poles have their day.
       •Improve pedestrian travel, particularly near motels/hotels...Lack of sidewalks along commercial areas results in people walking across parking lots and/or landscaping.
       •Nothing helps to diminish a neighborhood more than cars parked on front lawns, especially junk cars. Also, houses should need to maintain a
      certain standard of upkeep.
       •We need more lighting in residential areas, especially around the schools.
      •Fixing, maintaining, and filling vacant building should be a priority.
       •Do not remove trees or sell park land for development.
       •Encourage the filling of vacant buildings but do not do so to the detriment of attracting businesses that may want to build new.
       •Provide tax incentives for refurbishing old buildings and filling vacant structures.
       •There are too many empty buildings in the township.
       •Decrease the amount of concrete and structures, and replace with more trees and green space.
      This would also help with flooding and stormwater issues.
       •Protect historic buildings.
       •Building owners need to make sure their buildings are up to code instead of putting the burden on tenants, existing or potential.
       •Rent costs are too high in Boardman Township to attract people to open businesses in vacant spaces.
       •Focus on our infrastructure, traffic, and flooding issues first.
       •The township and county should not be able to dictate the use of someone’s property, including building design.
       Question: There have been multiple comments and issues raised about the parking and storage of
      recreational vehicles and trailers. Tell us how you would like to see the township regulate the parking and storage of different sizes of vehicles.
       Comments:
       •These regulations should also incorporate buses, vans, limos, and commercial vehicles.
       •Allow with time limits that accommodate loading, unloading, and temporary parking during the
      summer but park or store in the rear during the winter. For example, allow for parking anywhere
      between May and October.
       •Don’t understand why this is something that the zoning would enforce although poorly maintained storage should not be allowed.
       •The larger vehicles are an eyesore in neighborhoods.
       •Boardman is a township and not a homeowners’ association. The township should not be regulating this issue.
       •No parking on residential properties anywhere. If you can afford the vehicle, you should be able to afford storage.
       •As long as they are for personal use and not stored on the street, it should be okay.
       •There should not be any regulation other than making sure they are licensed, insured, and wellmaintained.
       •There are more important issues to worry about in the township.
       •These are the equivalent of mobile homes/trailers and should not be allowed on residential lots.
       •Smaller items such as boats are okay but not the larger recreational vehicles.
       •These have created blight in our neighborhoods that needs to be addressed.
       Question: Similar to the issues with recreational vehicles, there are questions about how to regulate trailers and commercial vehicles. Tell us how you would like to see the township regulate
      the parking and storage of different sizes of trailers and vehicles.
       Comments:
       •Box trucks should not be allowed at all
       •Smaller commercial vehicles should be allowed for people who use those vehicles for work.
       •Most lots were not designed to accommodate commercial vehicles and trailers and should not be allowed in residential areas.
       •Okay as long as not parked on the street.
       •There are more important issues to worry about in the township.
       •The township should not be regulating this issue.
       •Allow the utility trailers to be parked anywhere as long as they are being regularly used and moved. Long-time storage in one place should not be allowed.
       •If someone owns a company that is large enough to have a commercial-sized vehicle, it should be large enough to have space to store the vehicle outside of neighborhoods.
       •There should be a permit required for larger vehicles to allow them to temporarily park on
      residential lots. For example, they can be parked for ‘x’ number of days, ‘y’ number times a year.
       •Limit to ‘3500’ series trucks or vans or smaller.
       •Overnight parking is acceptable.
       Question: There may be some opportunity for new, higher density housing along major corridors as part of mixed-use developments or as a buffer between single family neighborhoods and commercial areas. Do you think the residential use and density is appropriate or not in Boardman based on this scenario---Single family detached housing on smaller lots (6 to 8 units per acre). Note: 52 per cent believed such development could be appropriate and 48 per cent did not want such develop around the area, like me who go there to play Pokemon Go year round. There are players that break the law when playing, like blocking the flow of traffic when their car is not damaged, and just blocking parking lot entrances and traffic flow into parking lot. I have emailed park people about this issue multiple times and they simply don’t care to do anything about it. I try a lot to get people to park and play.
       •No more Section 8. Raze the ‘motels.’
       •What will happen to Market Street School? If the school is sold will the property need to be rezoned commercial? Will rezoning the property be a ballot issue that residents will need to vote to approve? This is a very great future concern. Also
      what is happening to the Dillard’s property? Will
      there be some future rezoning to accommodate future business?
       •Clean up Market St. Get rid of the motels.
       •Do not allow any additional Section 8 housing or low income rental properties.
       •You have to eliminate excessive Section 8 housing and start to clean up the north end of the township.
       •The township should focus on current buildings that have become eyesores. The first two buildings on both sides of Carter Circle are deplorable as well as the hotels on market street. Boardman has enough on their hands with these buildings as well as the constant flooding issues and should put their emphasis on those issues.
       •Motels on Market St. are a nuisance. Get rid of
      them. The one I see has cops there all the time day and night
       •The plaza that has the Georgetown in it is disgusting looking. Also the Boardman Plaza could use some updating
       •Fix flooding first.
       •Many homes on street I live on have many cats that just roam everywhere two houses in particular leave front door and windows open and cats just are constantly in and out.
       •No more apartment complexes. They are bringing property values down.
       •Get rid of Section 8 housing entirely. It’s drags
      down the quality of our community.
       •Street parking needs to be addressed. Most street parkers have driveways but are too lazy to move cars around. Very dangerous and I wonder how emergency vehicles get through.
       •We have way too many empty buildings and it is starting to actually discourage people coming into the area. We need to preserve the precious land that we have for the animals and focus on the buildings that are already built.
       •Destroy Wagon Wheel, Boardman Inn, and Travelers Inn in Boardman.
       •Please be more receptive to enforcing open the
      burning regulations....There are people in Boardman who have asthma and other breathing issues as well and we cannot enjoy our yards when this is going on. And often, smoke even enters our homes from these fires.
       •The township should consider access roads behind large retail areas for easier access, to spread out traffic.
       •Tear down Wagon Wheel Motel on Market Street.
       •Eliminate motels on Market St. and apartments
      on Brookwood and Lemans Dr.
       •Boardman needs sidewalks, and walking and biking trails.
       •Please keep Boardman upscale and classy. Otherwise, it just looks like Austintown and Liberty.
       •No more Section 8 housing. We have enough
       •Clean up the Market St. corridor and the north end of Boardman first. My property value is falling and beginning to feel less safe. has ecological and environmental impacts in addition to being aesthetically pleasing.
       •Unrelated, but I think the fact that this survey was created is great! I really feel like my voice is being heard. Thank you!
       •The township in Market St. area looks terrible. It’s starting to look like Youngstown north of Shields Rd. Drastically needs greater standards and improvements. Get rid of all the drug infested
      hotels. Ruins Boardman Township.
       •Please try to get rid of the motels along Market St. They bring zero value to Boardman
       •Please do something about the raunchy motels on Market St and the yards in the Aravesta St. apartments
       •Pet peeve...no pun intended. A restriction on the number of dogs or cats in a single family dwelling along with ensuring those animals are not allowed to freely roam from owner’s property.
       •Fix the Southern Park Mall.
       •The path from South Shore Dr. to Boardman High School should be kept up much better.
       •Garage sale signs in places other than the home
      site should be allowed.
       •I think the biggest concern will be the vacant buildings and what happens to/with them. Especially concerning is what is happening out at Southern Park Mall with Dillard’s closing, possibly Macy’s and Penney’s next?
       •Motels along Market St. are drug dens and should not be converted into “apartments”. Farm animals do not belong in residential neighborhoods. Commercial properties along Market St. and Southern Blvd. look terrible and need proper code enforcement.
      Email questions, comments and concerns to
      bnews@zoominternet.net
  ‘Project Would Have Positive Impact On 1,000 Homes’  
  Passive Park, Stream Restoration Proposed When School Closes:   April 26, 2019 Edition  
Market Street Elementary School
     BY JOHN A. DARNELL JR.
      associate editor
      When Market St. Elementary School closes its door at the end of the current academic year, Boardman Township Trustees would like to create a passive park on the property, and at the same time clean Cranberry Run Creek that runs west from the school property, eventually emptying into Mill Creek.
      The Boardman Local School Board has announced the school will close as a part of a realignment, due to declining enrollment.
      According to a proposal submitted to State Rep. Don Manning, the passive park and stream restoration project could be completed in three phases at an estimated cost between $950,000 and $1.4 million.
      “The school sits on roughly 16 acres with 50 per cent of the property in a designated flood zone. Due to the flooding issues in that area, Boardman Township would like to see this property turned into a park with a stream restoration project to address flooding in this area,” Township Administrator Jason Loree said.
      The proposal indicates the school system could receive between $250,000 and $350,000 from the sale of most of the school property. Some frontage along Market St. could be excluded from the sale, generating additional funds for the school district, if it decided to sell that property.
      Demolition of the school, built in the early 1950s, would cost between $400,000 and $550,000, following which a stream restoration/retention park project would cost an additional $300,000 to $500,000, according to Boardman Township’s proposal.
      Creation of the passive park and the stream restoration project “would have a positive impact on over 1,000 homes,” says the proposal.
      According to Boardman Township Road Superintendent Marilyn Kenner, demolition of the school would include a cost of some $250,000 for asbestos abatement.
      Cranberry Run Creek borders Forest Lawn Cemetery and was constructed some 90 years ago. Since that time, debris and rocks have filled-in much of the creek, retarding water flow, especially during peak rainfall periods.
      “Two twin 60-inch pipes are used to flow water into the creek, constricting surface water flows and causing flooding issues,” Loree said.
      Work on restoring Cranberry Run could be accomplished using funding provided by the ABC Stormwater District, according to Loree.
     
      PICTURED: WHEN MARKET ST. ELEMENTARY SCHOOL CLOSES IN JUNE, Boardman Township Trustees have proposed creation of a passive park and stream restoration project on the property on Market St. to address drainage issues in the area.
  Boardman Police Officer’s Random Act Of Kindness Meant Everything To Student At Center Intermediate School  
  April 18, 2019 Edition  
     BY JOHN A. DARNELL JR.
      associate editor
      Most every school day, every week of the academic year, Boardman police officers stage walk-throughs at all local public and parochial schools in Boardman.
      The daily walk-throughs give students a chance to meet and greet their local police officers, as well as a chance to see officers as just ordinary people who have a job to do. Almost every day, every week, when the police walk through the schools, nothing happens.
      Last week it was another round of walk-throughs, and traveling through Center Intermediate School was Ptl. Evan Beil, who, as chance would have it, happened upon a young girl, a special needs student, who was extremely distraught because the combination lock on her locker wouldn’t work.
      When Officer Beil couldn’t open the lock, he continued about his journey through the school.
      The combination lock had to be cut-off the locker, causing the student much distress.
      It was just about a half-hour later that Officer Beil returned to the school with a new combination lock he had just purchased and gave it to the student.
      “She was just overwhelmed by this act of kindness,” said Melanie Shirilla, an English language instructor at Center, whose classroom is near the girl’s locker.
      “The first thing she said to me the next day when she came to school, was about how kind and nice Officer Beil was,” adding that “her mom liked the new lock! She was smiling from ear-to-ear.
      “This act of kindness meant everything to this little girl. It was a big problem to her, and this police officer helped her.”
      “People walk by other people with problems everyday and don’t think about it. But this man took the time to help this child and fix her problem.
      “It meant everything to her, that someone paid attention.”
  Boardman School District Earns Clean Audit Award  
  April 11, 2019 Edition  
     Ohio Auditor of State Keith Faber has completed an audit of the Boardman Local School District finances for fiscal year 2018 with no major fundings.
      The audit report, released on Mar. 28, 2019, says that total actual general fund expenditures, were $46.327 million and says general revenues accounted for $46.131 million, or 89 percent of all revenues. Program specific revenues in the form of charges for services and sales, grants and contributions accounted for $5,671 million or 11 percent of total revenues of $51.802 million.
      Below are excerpts from the audit:
      Current Financial Related Activities
      The Boardman Local School District has carefully managed its general fund budgets in order to optimize the dollars available for educating the students it serves, and to minimize the levy millage amounts needed periodically from the community’s citizens. In Mahoning County, the Boardman Local School District’s state funding per pupil is the one of the lowest in the State of Ohio. Boardman Local School District’s local taxes are represented by one permanent improvement levy, two emergency levies and three current expense levies. These limited levies all need to be renewed and vary from five to 10 year terms.
      The District continues to be very aggressive in cost cutting measures, while maintaining the high quality programs that are a tradition of our District. Retire/rehire has been a very successful cost savings program. The District is afforded a lower cost per employee, while retaining quality and expertise for up to a three year period. The school board continues to explore areas to reduce operating costs. These areas include staffing, health care, natural gas, electricity, workers’ compensation and all insurances. The District is also exploring shared services with neighboring districts.
      The District negotiated a new three year contract with all employee groups which commenced in fiscal year 2018 and expires in fiscal year 2020. In 2018, 2019 and 2020 the base wage increased 1, 2 and 2 percent, respectively, for each year of the contract.
      Several significant legislative and judicial actions have occurred that have had a major impact on the District ---community schools, open enrollment, autistic scholarships, and the Jon Peterson Scholarship.
      The Jon Peterson scholarship gives more choice to special education students. In fiscal year 2018 seven parochial and community schools received approximately $266,540 for 16.59 students. The scholarship cost per pupil ranges from $9,622 to $25,637 and is paid 100 percent with local funds. This is a major concern for the Boardman Local School District, (BLSD) which has over 300 students enrolled in parochial schools.
      The BLSD will continue to lobby to the State of Ohio for changes in the way the funding is distributed for Community Schools, open enrollment, autism scholarships and the Jon Peterson Scholarship.
      The BLSD receives approximately $2,079 for each student through the State foundation. When a student leaves Boardman to go to a Community School or Open Enrollment, approximately $6,010 is reduced from the District’s
      funding. [Those] numbers, representing fiscal year 2003 through 2018, are evidence of the increased dollars that are being diverted to community schools, open enrollment schools, and private schools that receive scholarship funding.
      The State’s 2018 school foundation level increased approximately $523,934 from the fiscal year 2017 level. This was the first year of the new two year state budget. In the prior two year state budget which commenced in fiscal year 2017 the District continues to lose personal property reimbursement.
      The District collected $1,043,792 in personal property loss reimbursement from the State in fiscal year 2017, and $519,768 in fiscal year 2018, a $,524,024 revenue loss. New legislation passed in the new State Biennial budget will phase out the tangible personal property reimbursement by fiscal year 2019. This has a negative effect on school districts throughout the State.
      The Boardman Board of Education is very concerned about the loss of this revenue stream after fiscal year 2018.
      Personal Property Tax revenue at one time represented ten percent of the District’s revenue. In fiscal year 2003, the District collected $3.764 million on personal property and zero for fiscal 2019 and beyond. This decrease has put a tremendous strain on the District’s revenue and the ability to maintain financial stability.
      The BLSD has committed itself to educational and financial excellence for many years and is very proud of the 4 A’s of the District: Academics, Arts, Athletics and Accountability. The diverse curriculum programs offered to the students, our excellent test score ratings for past school years in addition to unqualified audits, are evidence of the Board’s commitment to maximize the resources that are provided to educate the students of the District.
      The District is committed to living within its financial means, and working with the community it serves in order to provide adequate resources to support the education program.
      Description of the District
      The Boardman Local School District serves an area of approximately 25 square miles in Mahoning County. The BLSD is staffed by 304 non-certificated and 350 certificated personnel to provide services to approximately 4,303 students and other community members.
  Marlyn Place Foster Care ‘Mom’ Charged With Child Abuse  
  ‘The child told the social worker he was often beaten with coat hangers and belts, and that other foster children in the home also beat him.’:   April 11, 2019 Edition  
Alfreda Atkins
     BY JOHN A. DARNELL JR.
      associate editor
      Boardman police have charged a 63-year-old foster home operator with two counts of child abuse following an investigation by Sgt. Michael Sweeney into allegations that surfaced after a social worker at Child Advocacy Center at Akron Childrens Hospital determined a 4-year-old boy showed signs of abuse and neglect.
      Alfreda Atkins was arrested last weekend by Ptl. Evan Beil and Ptl. Joe Lamping on warrants signed by Boardman Court Judge Joseph Houser.
      Atkins, also known as Alfreda White and Freda Burns, has operated a foster home at 351 Marlyn Place. Since Mar. 1, 2014, police have logged 46 calls to the home.
      Boardman police were sent to the Advocacy Center on Mar. 19, after an Alta Preschool employee notified a social worker the child “had several suspicious marks and showed other signs of abuse and neglect,” Officer Beil said.
      “Alta further advised [the child] often smelled like urine and feces, suffered from poor oral hygiene and came to school in clothes that were soiled and often were too small,” Officer Beil said.
      The child told the social worker he was often beaten with coat hangers and belts, and that other foster children in the Marlyn Place home also beat him.
      “Due to the issues, [the boy] and remaining foster children are being removed from the home,” Officer Beil said.
      While investigating the allegations of child abuse, police were also told a man with a criminal record also lived at the home.
      According to Officer Beil, the social worker said the man was “not supposed to be at the foster home because of his criminal record.”
      The 4-year-old boy was placed into the home last fall by the Cuyahoga County Childrens Services Agency and the foster care facility operates outside of the jurisdiction of Mahoning County Childrens Services.
      “[The Marlyn Place] address is not a home which the Mahoning County Children Services Board has recommended nor maintains,” Jennifer Kollar, public information officer told The Boardman News.
      Sgt. Sweeney said the home is operated under the jurisdiction of Ohio Mentor, Inc, of Stutz Dr., Canfield, Oh.
      Records on file with the Ohio Secretary of State’s Office show the filing agent for Ohio Mentor Inc. is the Institute for Family Centered Services Inc., of Boston, Mass.
      Alyssa Mott, of Ohio Mentor, told Boardman Township Planning/Zoning Director Krista Beniston that 351 Marlyn Place “is a treatment/therapeutic foster home for children with mental health issues,” but she was not sure what agency licensed the home.
      Mott told Beniston that someone from Ohio Mentor visits the property bi-monthly and that therapists are in the home several times a week.
      In Dec., 2017, The Boardman News contacted Chip Bonsutto, executive director of Ohio Mentor, in Fairlawn, Oh., who refused to answer questions about what agency places children into 351 Marlyn Pace.
      Atkins made an initial appearance in Bardman Court on Tuesday and entered a plea of not guilty.
  Drug-Related Violence In Youngstown Spilled Over Into Boardman On Mar. 20, 2014  
  April 4, 2019 Edition  
     Y JOHN A. DARNELL JR.
      associate editor
      The attempted murder conviction of a 34-year-old Youngstown man, who shot another Youngstown man near South Ave. and Mathews Rd. on Mar. 20, 2014 has been upheld by the Seventh District Court of Appeals.
      The Seventh District opinion and judgement entry, that was authored by Judge Cheryl Waite, with Judges Gene Donofrio and Carol Ann Robb concurring, says the shooting was related to a “million dollar drug distribution organization led by Vincent Moorer and DeWaylyn ‘Waylo’ Colvin” and identified Melvin E. Johnson Jr., 34, as a triggerman’ within the drug ring.
      “A triggerman is responsible for the deaths of anyone who did not pay money owed to the organization, or harmed or offended someone in the organization,” Waite’s opinion says.
      According to Boardman Police Department records, John Willie Myles, 27, residing at 895 Cook Ave., was shot tree times while walking along South Ave., near the What-A-Wash car wash, about 10:15 p.m.
      Myles told police as he walked in front of the car wash, he asked an unidentified man for a cigarette, and the man then reached into his pocket and pulled out a pistol and began shooting at him.
      However, the Seventh District Court’s opinion says that Myles was targeted for the shooting by the drug distribution organization.
      “Myles was targeted because Moorer believed that he had set up another member of the drug ring, Dashonti ‘Sweat’ Baker, to be robbed. Moorer obtained a phone belonging to Baker and used it to text Myles to set up a fake drug deal and lure him to the South Ave...location,” Judge Waite’s opinion says, noting that Johnson was driven to the area of the shooting in a vehicle that contained Johnson and a driver, identified as only ‘M.P.’
      “Johnson told M.P. and Moorer that Myles had asked him for a cigarette, which gave him the opportunity to pull out his gun and shoot him,” Judge Waite said, adding that text message records submitted to the court also confirmed that claim.
      In upholding the conviction and 140-month jail sentence on the attempted murder charge, Judge Waite declared Johnson’s appeal was without merit.
      “The state (prosecution) presented evidence to demonstrate [Johnson’s] actions were purposeful and were designed to cause the death of John Myles,” Judge Waite said, noting the efforts of Boardman Police Officer Glenn Patton provided evidence that Baker’s phone was used to set-up the shooting on South Ave.
      The Mahoning Valley Violent Crimes Task Force said the indictment of Johnson and five others in May, 2015 broke-up a suspected drug ring in the area they claimed was responsible for a lot of violence in the city of Youngstown, including four murders, a number of other shootings, as well as arson, drug trafficking and state racketeering charges.
      In Mar, 2014, that violence spilled over into Boardman Township.
      After he was shot, Myles came to the attention of Boardman police one more time, ad that was on Mar. 13, 2016 when a car he was driving was stopped at 10:10 a.m. by Ptl. Stephen Dubos for a red light violation.
      At that time, Officer Dubos said when he asked Myles for his identification, Myles responded, “Man, I really need to use the restroom.” Myles told the officer he didn’t have any identification on him, he didn’t know his social security number and his name was ‘Charles W. Aikens.’
      Myles was ordered back into his car where police detected the odor of marihuana.
      “Myles said he was smoking a ‘roach’ last night,” when asked about the odor. Officer Dubos said, adding the man was identified by mail that was found in the car (registered to Burt Pritchard) he was driving.
      “Myles then admitted to lying and apologized. He said he didn’t want to get his friend’s vehicle impounded,” Officer Dubos said, adding that Myles had a suspended driver’s license.
  27 Teachers Will Be Reassigned Due To Closing Of Market St. School  
  Move Also Calls For Classroom Renovations At Center Intermediate At A Cost Of $227,850:   April 4, 2019 Edition  
     Meeting last week, the Boardman Board of Education approved the transfers of 27 teachers due to the closing of Market St. Elementary School at the end of the current school year.
      Due to the closing of the Market St., the teachers listed below will be transferred to the following schools for the 2019-2020 year:
       •Toni Acevedo,Center Intermediate, Grade 4, English/Language Arts;
       •Tara Alberti, West Blvd., Grade 3;
       •Kendra Baltes, Center Intermediate, teacher on assignment;
       •Jennifer Cabuno, Center Intermediate, Grade 4 Science/Social Studies;
       •Daniel Conway, West Blvd., Kindergarten;
       •Pam Choleva, Stadium Dr., Kindergarten;
       •Lee Christman, Center Intermediate, Grade 4 Math;
       •Theresa D’Angelo, Robinwood Lane, Grade 2;
       •John DePietro, Center Intermediate, Grade 4 Science/Social Studies;
       •Lisa Ebie, Center Intermediate, Grade 4 English/Language Arts;
       •Donna Fortunato, Stadium Dr., Grade 3;
       •Barb Gonda, West Blvd., Grade 1;
       •Shannon Green, Center Intermediate, Physical Education;
       •Jill Jones, West Blvd., Grade 1;
       •Jacqueline Lawson, Stadium Dr., Grade 1;
       •Andrea Lordi, Stadium Dr., Kindergarten;
       •Aereal Martin, Robinwood Lane, Grade 1;
       •Greg McAtee, Center Intermediate, Grade 4 English/Language Arts;
       •Doreen Miner, Stadium Dr., Grade 2;
       •Maria Nadzam, Robinwood Lane, Kindergarten;
       •Denise Robinson, Center Intermediate, Grade 4 Math;
       •Laurel Sanders, Center Intermediate, Grade 4 English/Language Arts;
       •Debra Seifert, Center Intermediate, English/Language Arts;
       •Shannon Soles, Center Intermediate, Grade 4 Science/Social Studies;
       •Jeanette Tamulonis, Center Intermediate, Grade 4 English/Language Arts;
       •Jennifer Wymer, Stadium Dr., Grade 2; and
       •Nina Zordich, Center Intermediate, Grade 4 Math.
      In another matter related to the closing of Market St. Elementary School, the school board has approved a classroom renovation project at Center Intermediate that will turn current systemwide administrative offices at Center into classrooms at a cost of $227,850. Murphy Contracting was awarded a bid for the project.
      The local school board has not approved anything for a capital improvement project at the Boardman High School where all systemwide administrative offices, including the superintendent and treasurer, will be located next year.
      “Our first priority was the office to classroom conversion at Center Intermediate. An architect is still working on the drawings for the high school project,” Treasurer Nicholas Ciarniello said this week.
  Pizza Joe’s Entry Wins Mahoning Valley Cook-Off Award For Third Straight Year  
  April 4, 2019 Edition  
     For the third year in a row, Pizza Joe’s has claimed a Pizza Peel Award at the Mahoning Valley Pizza Cook-Off benefiting Potential Development. The pizzeria franchise was recognized as the Best Gourmet Pizza by judges with its Italian Philly Steak pizza.
      “We are always excited and happy to participate in the cook-off, first and foremost to support the great work being accomplished by Potential Development, but also to share some great camaraderie with our fellow pizza makers in the valley,” said Katie Seminara-DeToro, of Pizza Joe’s.
      This year’s entry for Best Gourmet had been in the making since December. At the end of last year, Trumbull County middle-school students participated in a new Junior Achievement of the Mahoning Valley Innovation Challenge with Pizza Joe’s. The goal was to develop a new flavor of pizza targeted toward students’ peers.
      Though there were many deserving winners, one of the teams from Lakeview Middle School in Cortland took home the title of best pizza concept of the program.
      The winning team pitched an Italian Philly Steak pizza, and last month they graded three different pizzas from Pizza Joe’s based on their original concept.
      “We brought three different pizzas centered around the students’ original concept and gave them the opportunity to judge taste, appearance and overall marketability,” Seminara-DeToro said. “With just a few tweaks, we came up with the final recipe and clearly it has been a hit with tasters and now the Mahoning Valley Pizza Cook Off judges.”
      The Italian Bulldog (Italian Philly Steak) includes a garlic sauce base, philly steak, red roasted peppers, fresh tomatoes and mozzarella cheese. The Boardman Pizza Joe’s franchise is located at 6810 Market St. and is operated by Mario LaMarca.
  4-Year-Old Boy Removed From Marlyn Place Foster Home  
  March 28, 2019 Edition  
     BY JOHN A. DARNELL JR.
      associate editor
      Boardman police are investigating allegations of child abuse at a foster home at 351 Marlyn Place after a 4-year-old boy was examined at Akron Childrens Hospital last week.
      Police were sent to the hospital’s Child Advocacy Center after a social worker was notified by Alta Pre-School the boy had “suspicious marks and showed other signs of abuse and neglect,” Ptl. Evan Beil said.
      “Alta advised [the boy] often smelled like urine and feces, suffered from poor oral hygiene and came to school in clothes that were soiled and often too small,” Officer Beil said.
      According to the policeman, the social worker, Courtney Wilson, “brought [the child to the Advocacy Center] for an interview and medical examination and found several suspicious bruises, welts and marks,” adding “all of the pre-school’s claims appear to be valid.”
      During his interview, in the home, and claimed his ‘foster parents’ allowed that to happen and did not intervene, Ptl. Beil said. He also noted that “despite being 4-years-old, the boy still wears pull-ups and [his foster parent] has failed to even attempt to train him.”
      Wilson told police that one of the foster parents “has a lengthy criminal record and is not supposed to be at the foster home because of his record.”
      Officer Beil said “due to the issues, the boy was removed from the home on Mar. 19 and remaining foster children are also being removed from the home.”
      The 4-year-old boy was placed into the home last fall by the Cuyahoga County Childrens Services Agency and the foster care facility operates outside of the jurisdiction of Mahoning County Childrens Services.
      “[The Marlyn Place] address is not a home which the Mahoning County Children Services Board has recommended nor maintains,” Jennifer Kollar, public information officer told The Boardman News.
      The foster home has been operated for several years by Alfreda Atkins, also known as Alfreda White and Freda Burns, formerly of 1424 Fifth Ave., Youngstown, according to reports filed with the Boardman Police Department and is apparently licensed through a firm called Ohio Mentor Inc., with local offices on Stutz Dr. in Canfield.
      Records on file with the Ohio Secretary of State’s Office show the filing agent for Ohio Mentor Inc. is the Institute for Family Centered Services Inc., of Boston, Mass.
      “Ohio Mentor Inc. is a private child placing agency that does have foster homes in Ohio,” Kollar said, adding “Due to confidentiality rules, we are prohibited from confirming whether this home has a valid foster home certificate issued by the Ohio Department of Job and family Services, nor would we be permitted to disclose who if any, is the recommending agency.”
      Boardman police have been called to the Marlyn Place home several times during the past three years, and in Dec. 2017, the home was brought to the attention of Boardman Township Trustees by two nearby residents who complained of the constant traffic in and out of the home.
      That prompted a response from Boardman Township Planning/Zoning Director Krista Beniston that noted “Mahoning County Children Services did not have any record of the property and they do not have any records regarding private operators, even those in Mahoning County.”
      Beniston said she spoke with Alyssa Mott, of Ohio Mentor and was told that 351 Marlyn Place “is a treatment/therapeutic foster home for children with mental health issues.
      Mott told Beniston that someone from Ohio Mentor visits the property bi-monthly and that therapists are in the home several times a week.
      “I was told that Alfreda Atkins (63-years-old) lives there,” Beniston said, adding that Moot said Atkins was able to have up to five children at one time on the home.
      When Beniston asked Mott what agency licensed the home, Mott said she “was not sure.”
      According to Boardman Police Department records, police have logged 46 calls to 351 Marlyn Place since Mar. 1, 2014.
  North Lima Man Changes Voter Registration To His Wife’s Address In Order To Seek Seat On Boardman Township Board Of Trustees  
  March 14, 2019 Edition  
     BY JOHN A. DARNELL JR.
      associate editor
      A Woodworth Rd., North Lima man has indicated he will seek 2a seat on the Boardman Township Board of Trustees in this November’s general elections.
      Richard Barron, 53, of 11372 Woodworth Rd., North Lima, made the announcement of his candidacy in a Mahoning County Republican Party newsletter issued last week.
      Barron says he will seek the seat by changing his voter registration address to his wife’s home in Boardman, noted in Mahoning County Auditor’s Office records at 993 Anderson Dr.
      In a post on social media on Mon., Mar. 11, Barron said “Today I officially changed my address to my wife’s home in Boardman,” adding that he helped to lay floor tile during construction in the 1990s of the township government center.
      Barron unsuccessfully ran for Mahoning County Commissioner last year against incumbent Carol Rimedio-Righetti. Part of his campaign for county office included his stated opposition to a Boardman Park levy that was on the ballot.
      On Mar. 1 his Facebook page displayed the following: “Stupid people are like glow sticks. I want to snap them and shake the shit out of them until the light comes on.”
      Up for election is one seat on the Boardman Township Board of Trustees that is currently held by Larry Moliterno, who has indicated he will seek re-election, and who is known to support community projects and involvement, and not use simple profanity on social media.
  Mayhem Will Invade The Performing Arts Center  
  March 14, 2019 Edition  
     On Friday, March 22, the Boardman High School Rock Orchestra will perform its 13th annual “Project Mayhem” event at the Performing Arts Center. The 2-hour rock show combines the talents of the Boardman High School Orchestra, chart topping songs presented by the BHS choir, and a laser light show by Lightwave International of Pittsburgh. The ‘Trans-Siberian’ style tradition began in 2006, and it’s been a sold-out performance for the last two years. The show will take place at 7:00 pm at the Boardman Performing Arts Center. Tickets to the show are $5/each, and all seating is general admission.
     
  The Overdose At Boardman Court  
  March 14, 2019 Edition  
     29-YEAR-OLD SAMANTHA SISCO overdosed in the parking lot of Boardman Court, 8110 Market St., on Thurs., Feb. 28 about 5:00 p.m. She was found unconscious on the ground by Mahoning County Sheriff’s Dep. Jon Persing, “I removed the (narcan) injector from the kit, installed the vial and administered narcan to Ms. Sisco. She still had no notable pulse and was not breathing,” Dep. Persing said. Sisco was transported to Mercy Health for treatment. Chariey Riggs, 25, of 102 Woodview Ave., who told police she is employed with Parkman Addiction Services, told Dep. Persing that Sisco has a history of drug use. Riggs told Boardman Ptl. Evan Beil that Sisco is a heroin addict and Sisco had been driving her car because she thought Sisco was “clean and doing better.” Officer Beil said he went to Mercy Health where Sisco had regained consciousness. “She admitted she injected herself with heroin,” Officer Beil said. Riggs was at the court for a hearing on citation for a red light violation and a driving under suspension charge lodged on Dec. 16 at 12:30 a.m. by Ptl. Daryn Tallman, who said Riggs ran a solid red light at Midlothian Blvd. and Hillman St. Riggs “stated she was looking at Burger King and not paying attention, and she was as familiar with the driving suspension,” Officer Tallman said.
  Heroin Addict Overdosed In The Parking Lot Of Boardman Court  
  March 7, 2019 Edition  
     A 29-year-old woman admitted to Boardman police that she injected herself with heroin in the parking lot of Boardman Court, 8110 Market St., about 5:00 p.m. on Thurs., Feb. 28.
      Mahoning County Dep. Jon Persing, working a court detail, said he was notified by a concerned citizen there was an unconscious female in the parking lot of the court. The woman was unresponsive and showing no signs of life, Dep. Persing said.
      Samantha Irene Sisco, of 204 State Line Rd., Enon Valley, Pa., “was not breathing, her eyes had rolled to the back of her head, her skin had turned a gray/ashen color and her lips had turned purple,” Ptl Evan Beil said.
      Due to her grave condition, Sisco was immediately transported by ambulance to St. Elizabeth Hospital in Boardman, Ptl. Beil said.
      Police said they also spoke with a female who identified herself at 25-year-old Charitey Riggs, who according to Officer Beil, said she is an employee (technician) at Parkman Addiction Services. According to court records, Riggs, of 102 Woodview Ave., was at the court for a hearing on a driving under suspension charge lodged against her.
      “Riggs advised that Sisco is a heroin addict and Sisco had been driving her car because she thought Sisco was clean and doing better,” Officer Beil said.
      Ptl. Beil also went to St. Elizabeth Hospital where Sisco had regained consciousness and admitted to shooting up heroin in the parking lot of the court.
      Police did not indicate Sisco made any comments about where she obtained the drugs she had injected.
      Inside a purse found near Sisco, police found a syringe, a burnt spoon, a ‘one-hitter’ ceramic pipe, and chore boy, Officer Beil said.
  School Board Okays 3-Year Contract For Superintendent  
  March 7, 2019 Edition  
     The Boardman Board of Education approved a new, three-year contact for Supt. Timothy L. Saxton, and hired a new head softball coach at its February meeting held last week at West Blvd. Elementary School.
      Saxton is completing his first, three-year pact this year.
      His new pact will run from Aug. 1, 2019 through July 21, 2022 and calls for a base salary of $107,000 in its first year.
      Replacing longtime Lady Spartan softball coach Mike Trell will be Fred Mootz. Mootz, a 1992 graduate of Boardman High School, has a long affiliation with Boardman Community Baseball where he has coached several girls all-star teams. He has served as a volunteer assistant coach for the Lady Spartans for the past six years. His supplemental contract calls for a salary of $6,093.
      The Lady Spartan softball team will travel to Myrtle Beach, South Carolina, from Sat., Apr. 13 to Sat., Apr. 20, for team practice and regular season competition. Students will not miss any classes to go on the field trip.
      The board approved motions to sell its school bus property on McClurg Rd., hoping to move the transportation operation to a site on Tod Ave. by this spring. That move followed a redesign of the bus parking lot on Tod Ave. that had to be relined to accommodate busses in and out of the lot.
      Resignations were accepted to the following:
       •Julie Kamenitsa, longtime Market St. Elementary School teacher, effective June 30.
       •Audrey Allen, high school teacher aide; Debra Cappitti-Kent, noontime onimtor at Robinwood Lane Elementary School; and Eve Russo, independent aide at Market St. Elementary School.
       •Karen Cordova, high school science club advisor; Laura Frost, Glenwood student council advisor; Kamenitsa, Market St. technology support; Amanda Rigby, high school science club advisor.
       •Madison Landgraff, high school band assistant.
      Leave of absence were granted to Cara Henley, Center English teacher, first year of parental leave; and Robin Stuhara, Robinwood Lane intervention specialist, first year of parental leave.
      Supplemental contracts were granted to Robert Mingo, high school assistant baseball coach, $3385; Lauren Pavlansky, high school assistant softball coach, $2708; Rachel Ruggieri, Glenwood dramatics director, $1015; and Nick Liste (off-staff), Glenwood assistant track coach, $2708.
      Named as off-staff volunteer coaches were Gary Kohler, Brett Pitzulo and Doug Widrig, high school assistant baseball coaches.
      A stipend of $97.50 was granted to Lori Neiman, ticket seller for a high school play.
      The school board accepted the following donations at its Feb. 25 meeting:
       •$766.90, from Macy’s in the Southern Park Mall that will be used for a girl’s empowerment program.
       •$500 from Mike Mraz and Sue Zachardy that will be used for Camp Fitch field trips.
       •$168.93 from Danielle Siembida that will be used to purchase physical education equipment at Glenwood Jr. High School.
       •A $300 gift certificate to the Oh Wow Children’s Center from Lori Neiman that will be used for 30 students.
      Approved as long-term substitutes were Daniel Hunt, Center math teacher; and Peter Stafford, high school math teacher.
      The Boardman Local School Board also met on Feb. 19 for a special meeting/workshop that lasted about four hours. Discussion was held on facilities, transportation, personnel, a township report and the Educational Service Center billing report.
  J.P. Morgan Named County Court Judge  
  March 7, 2019 Edition  
     Ohio Gov. Mike DeWine has appointed Atty. J.P. Morgan to a seat on the county court bench. Morgan will replace Judge David D’Apolito, who was elected as a judge on the Seventh District Court of Appeals last November.
      Morgan, who has been an attorney for 17 years, unsuccessfully ran for a seat on the county court last November. The seat he fills by appointment will be up for election in Nov., 2020 for the remainder of the term, which ends Dec. 31, 2022
      Morgan was one of three candidates for the post who were recommended to the governor by the Mahoning County Republican Party.
  Ohio Law Allows ABC Water District To Impose Storm Water Utility Fee  
  Assessment Will Allow Drainage Work On Private Property:   February 28, 2019 Edition  
     BY JOHN A. DARNELL JR.
      associate editor
      Boardman Township Trustees Larry Moliterno, Tom Costello and Brad Calhoun met on Monday night and spent about an hour responding to queries from four persons who asked questions concerning a storm water utility fee levied by the ABC (Austintown-Boardman-Canfield) Water District that appears on current property tax bills.
      The assessment, estimated between $36 to $56 annually on residential properties, will be used to address surface water drainage issues throughout Boardman, according to Township Administrator Jason Loree.
      The water district approved the utility fee last October with Boardman and Canfield voting in favor and Austintown abstaining.
      Paul Hershey, of 149 Sugarcane Dr., asked how the utility fee could be imposed without a vote of the people.
      Loree said the water district was created under provisions of the Ohio Revised Code that allows that district to collect fees for services it provides, adding that a water district can work on private property in an effort to address drainage issues.
      “Townships are not allowed to do that,” Loree said.
      Others who expressed similar concerns included Diann Cordova, 4904 Grover Dr.; Ed Dambick, 187 Green Bay Dr.; and Ralph Cook, 803 Presidential Dr.
      They were informed there will be a meeting of the water district on Wed., Mar. 20 at the Boardman Library at 2:00 p.m.; followed by an open house tentatively set for the same date at 7:00 p.m. at the library.
      According to the water district’s web site, “Townships are not allowed to spend tax dollars on private property to make improvements to storm water systems. This includes work within any water course, river, stream, and private property detention/retention pond. But water district can work on private property.”
      Funding that is collected form the storm water utility fee imposed on Boardman Township will stay within the community.
      According to the water district’s web site, projects considered for calendar year 2019 include:
       •Categorize over 5,000 catch basins and set-up a replacement/repair program.
       •Evaluate the existing storm sewer infrastructure and develop plans for the replacement of the piping network that is beyond its useful life.
       •Establish a street sweeping and ‘vac-truck’ plan for all streets in the township.
      Chris Menosky, of 8485 Crystal Dr., asked if the township could provide a reimbursement of $25 to repair his mailbox that was damaged by road crew during snow removal. His request was granted.
      Brandon Burke, of Homestead Dr., asked if he could pave a portion of his property with gravel to make more parking on the site.
      Marilyn Kenner, road superintendent, explained the township requires driveways and parking lots to be paved.
      In other matters, acting on the recommendation of Police Chief Todd Werth, trustees approved the purchase of $17,750 worth of pistol, rifle and shotgun ammunition for use in police training and authorized the purchase of five tasers, nine holster and five magazines at a cost of $5633.98 from Vance’s Law Enforcement in Obetz, Oh.
      Acting on the recommendation of the road superintendent, trustees approved the purchase of a plow blade at a cost of $7931.15 to replace aging, existing equipment.
      Trustees approved Atty. Matt Vansuch as legal counsel on matters of home rule authority and zoning; okayed a resolution for application to the Ohio Department of Transportation for a Safe Routes to School grant, and approved a mutual aid agreement between the Boardman Fire Dept. and the Youngstown Air Reserve Station.
  Crazies And Zanies Will Gather Sun., Mar. 10 For 41st St. Patrick’s Parade  
  February 28, 2019 Edition  
     The Mahoning Valley St. Patrick’s Parade will celebrate its 41st anniversary on Sun., Mar. 10 when the parade kicks-off at 1:00 p.m. along Market St., beginning at McClurg Rd.
      The Mahoning Valley St. Patrick’s Parade is one of the largest parades in the state of Ohio. Each year upwards of 25,000 spectators line the parade route along Market St., from McClurg Rd. to Southwoods Dr
      Grand Marshal for this year annual march is Maureen Collins. The Ockerman Award recipient is Buzz Kelty and the Lord Mayor of Kilkenny is Lenny Fisher.
      The Ockerman Award was created in memory of the parade’s first head marshal, Bill Ockerman, who served as chief organizer of the parade for many years. The Kilkenny honors recognized contributions to enable the parade to continue every year.
      Leading the parade will be the Shamrock Balloon, the Boardman High School Spartan Marching Band and Boardman Township Trustees.
      The Spartan Marching Band is one of six bands in this year’s parade. Others participating are the South Range Marching Band, the Ursuline Marching Band, the Youngstown State University Marching band and the Steel City Ambassadors.
      Master of Ceremonies at the Ed Reese Reviewing Stand, at the end of the parade, will be Casey Malone.
      Upwards of 150 units will march in the zany parade, including Aut Mori Grotto clowns, the Capt. Thomas W. Patton Camp Sons of Confederate Veterans, the Llucky Llamas 4-H Club, the Mahoning Valley Olde Car Club, the Beaver Creek Horseman’s Association, Struthers Little Wildcats and Youngstown Phantoms Hockey Team.
       Maureen Collins
      Collins is co-founder of Easy Street Productions, Youngstown’s first and only professional-stock theatre company. Probably best known for musicals such as Pump Boys and Dinettes and their annual Christmas spectacular Miracle on Easy Street, the troupe’s unique brand of family entertainment has been a Mahoning Valley favorite for the past 30 years.
      Some of Collins’s past honors include Woman of the Year for the YWCA and Distinguished Alumni at Ursuline High School. She is the daughter of Raymond and Virginia Collins, and her entire family has served the Youngstown community and is proud to be Irish!
      Lenny Fisher
      Fisher is the owner and president of Handel’s Ice Cream. He credits local residents who grew up on Handel’s with the growth and success of the company. What started as Alice Handel serving ice cream to her neighborhood has turned into a nationally recognized brand, with locations from coast-to-coast.
      Handel’s has been a loyal division sponsor of the Mahoning Valley St. Patrick’s Parade for many years.
      Buzz Kelty
      Kelty is the son of Buzz Sr. and Eileen Conaboy Kelty and has lived in the Mahoning Valley his entire life. He is a graduate of Cardinal Mooney High School and Youngstown State University. He is a member of Holy Family Church where he serves as a Eucharistic Minister and Adult Altar Server. He is a member of the Holy Family Council of Knights of Columbus #15573, Mahoning Valley Gaelic Society, and Teamsters Local #377.
      Kelty has been a marshal for the Mahoning Valley St. Patrick’s Day Parade since its inception.
  26-Year-Old Woman Found Dead At Days Inn Could Be The Victim Of A Drug Overdose  
  February 21, 2019 Edition  
     BY JOHN A. DARNELL JR.
      associate editor
      Boardman Police are investigating the death of a 26-year-old woman who was found dead in a room at the Days Inn, 7393 South Ave., on Fri., Feb. 15.
      Police were called to room #141 at the Inn about 3:07 a.m. after a man identified as Dennis Sklenchar reported a “female came to kick it with him and they had sex and she gave him one clonapin and not sure how many she took.”
      Ptl. Anthony Ciccotelli said that Haley Elaine Secre, 26, of 564 West Evergreen, Youngstown, Oh., was found laying on her back near the bed, and there were no visible injuries.
      Sklenchar told police that Secre had taken a taxi to the Days Inn about 9:00 p.m. on Feb. 14 where they drank “some alcoholic beverages, had ex, then fell asleep on the bed,” according to Officer Ciccotelli.
      Sklenchar told police “a little after midnight” he woke up and saw Secre not breathing and unresponsive.
      He said “he then attempted to perform CPR for a short while, then put ice...and cold water on her chest and face area in an effort to get Secre to regain consciousness, but was unsuccessful,” Officer Ciccotelli said.
      According to the policeman, Sklenchar said he then called his brother, who told him to call 9-1-1.
      “This call was received at 3:05 a.m.,” Ptl Ciccotelli said.
      Sklenchar told police he had known Secre for four to five months and got together with her several times during that time period.
      “Sklenchar advised he had checked into the motel on Feb. 13 and booked the room for two nights. (He) stated his uncle visited him in his room on Feb. 14 at 11:00 p.m. and stayed for five to ten minutes,” Ptl. Ciccotelli said.
      A female who visited the Boardman Police Department on Monday, who said she was Secre’s mother, indicated her daughter likely died of a heroin overdose.
      Secre was arrested by Boardman police on Oct. 31, 2018 and charged with inducing panic on Aug. 19 after she stated she was high on drugs and needed help.
      “Secre advised she had taken drugs, but could not say which kind or how much,” Ptl. Tim Hughes reported at the time, adding that “Secre then began talking incoherently.
      At that time, Officer Hughes noted hat police had dealt with Secre and Robert Rosenberg “the previous day for an overdose.”
      Det. Greg Stepuk is investigating Secre’s death.
  After Incident On School Bus, B-B And Spoon Called Weapons  
  February 14, 2019 Edition  
      Selected parents of Boardman Local School students who use the system’s bus transportation were informed on Monday a bus had been locked down and all students on the were searched for possible contraband.
      Center Intermediate Assistant Principal Matthew Beard made the following announcement to selected parents over a phone line:
      “A student was struck by an air-soft b-b on a bus. We weren’t sure how it happened. Myself and a school resource officer went on the bus and put it on lockdown and searched all of the students’ belongings---book bags, instrument cases, lunch boxes, etc.
      “After that, in reviewing the (surveillance) videotape...off of the bus, it was reviewed that it was a student in seventh grade at Glenwood that had used a spoon to fling the b-b forward, striking the student. The student was not injured. But, nonetheless, that b-b and spoon are now considered weapons.
      “The administration over at Glenwood, as well as the school resource officer handled the situation appropriately.”
      Beard encouraged parents with questions to call 330-726-3400.
  Former Boardman Police Officer And Current BCI Chieftan To Get Recognition At Feb. 22 YSU Event  
  BCI Special Agent Jim Ciotti:   February 14, 2019 Edition  
     The Dr. Dominic A. and Helen M. Bitonte College of Health and Human Services at Youngstown State University will recognize alumni, faculty and staff at its 10th annual Alumni Recognition Dinner at 6:00 p.m. on Friday, Feb. 22 at the Embassy in Boardman.
      This year’s honorees include for Boardman police officer and current Special Agent in Charge/Northern District of Ohio of the Ohio Bureau of Criminal Investigation (BCI) Jim Ciotti, of Boardman, for his career in criminal justice and forensic sciences.
      Ciotti graduated from YSU with a bachelor’s degree in 1992 and a master’s degree in 1994, both in criminal justice, where he concluded his education with a 3.89 gpa. He is a certified peace officer by the Ohio Peace Officer Training Commission and a graduate of the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) National Academy.
      Ciotti began his law enforcement career at the Jacksonville, N.C. Police Department before returning home where he served with the Boardman Police Department from 1991-1996.
      From 1988-1991, Ciotti worked as a producer of television news for WYTV in Youngstown, and from 1984-86 was a reporter for WRDW-TV in Augusta, Ga.
      Currently, Ciotti is the special agent in charge for the Northern District of Ohio with BCI. He was also attached to the Ohio Organized Crime Investigation Commission, and has served on numerous task forces, including the Mahoning Valley Drug Task Force and U.S. Drug Enforcement Administration.
      His career with the Ohio BCI included an assignment from 2001-2004 with the Ohio Organized Crime Investigation Commission, that included investigations into traditional and non-traditional organized crime groups.
      In Sept., 2009, he was promoted to BCI’s special agent/supervisor of the northwest region of Ohio that covers 22 counties; an assignment that included oversight of standards of the commission on Accreditation for Law Enforcement Agencies (CALEA).
      As special agent in charge of investigation for the northern district of Ohio, his territory covers 44 counties with three regional offices and an annual budget of some $8 million.
      Special Agent Ciotti has served as a criminal justice instructor at Kent State University, Baldwin-Wallace University and Youngstown State University.
      In 2007, he was named Investigator of the Year by the Mahoning County Chiefs of Police Association, and in 2010 he was recognized for investigations in to narcotics trafficking, including street-level dealers to major narcotics distribution networks.
      From 2013-2015 he supervised a specialized BCI squad dealing with crimes against children, ranging from child homicide to internet solicitation and child pornography.
      As a youngster, Ciotti, who is a Boardman High School graduate, always knew he wanted to be a law enforcement officer.
      “When I was 11-years-old, I rode my bicycle to the Boardman Police Station (5105 Market St.) and asked how to get a job,” he recalls, noting his appointment as a Boardman police officer “was the culmination of a lifelong dream.”
  Township Seeks Feasibility Study On Flood Reduction  
  U.S. Army Corps Of Engineers Will Conduct Analysis:   February 7, 2019 Edition  
      Boardman Trustees have asked the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers for assistance in reducing surface water flows during peak rainfall periods along a tributary of Mill Creek.
      The waterway, that has often caused surface water concerns during peak rainfall periods, flows through Boardman Lake and backyards along North and South Cadillac Drives, then flows north along Glenwood Ave., and empties into Mill Creek, flowing along Shields Rd.
      In early January, Township Administrator Jason Loree, began a process to seek federal assistance, and citing the Flood Control Act of 1948, asked the Corps of Engineers “to undertake a flood reduction investigation along a tributary of Mill Creek in Boardman Township.” A feasibility study could be federally funded up to $100,000, Loree noted.
      Two weeks ago, Marc Glowczewski, chief of planning and the environmental branch of the Corps of Engineers in Pittsburgh, Pa., informed Boardman Road Superintendent Marilyn Kenner a request for initial funding to study the waterway has been submitted.
      “Once funding is available, the corps of engineers will initiate a preliminary analysis, at federal expense, to determine if the potential project meets program requirements and federal participation is justified,” Glowczewski told Kenner.
  Additional DNA Testing Could Develop Leads On Suspect In 1972 Murder  
  January 31, 2019 Edition  
     BY JOHN A. DARNELL JR.
      associate editor
      The Boardman Police Department’s cold case investigation into the death of 12-year-old Bradley Bellino, whose body was found in a dumpster behind the Boardman Plaza on Apr. 4, 1972 is continuing with the aid of DNA testing that, at the time of Bellino’s death, was unavailable.
      Acting upon the recommendation of Police Chief Todd Werth, Boardman Trustees approved $3500 to hire Parabon Nanolabs, of Reston, Va., to conduct a snapshot genetic genealogy analysis of DNA evidence, body fluids, obtained from the crime scene.
      That evidence has already been tested through Ohio Bureau of Criminal Identification data bases, and an initial round of DNA screenings was conducted in Oct., 2018 by Parabon.
      “They found some potential matches in the data base, and there is definitely more work they can do,” Capt. Albert Kakascik of the Boardman Police Department said this week.
      The DNA testing that will be performed by Parabon could even provide an image of what a potential suspect would look like.
      More than 46 years ago, 12-year-old Bradley Bellino, of 61 McClurg Rd., left home at noon, apparently walking to the home of a friend, Donald Templenon, 733 Teakwood Dr., in Applewood Acres.
      A criminal complaint obtained by The Boardman News says about 7:30 p.m. on Mar. 31, the boy failed to return home.
      The following day, Debbie Bellino notified police about 3:20 p.m. that Bradley was missing.
      Three days later, at 8:02 a.m. on Apr. 4, employees of Varie Bros. Trash Co. called police saying they found a body in a dumpster behind the Boardman Plaza.
      Ptl. Glenn Bowers and Ptl. George Statler answered the call and the body was identified as the Bellino boy.
      A belt (from JCPenney) was found strapped around his neck. The strap bore teeth marks, and body fluid, not Bellino’s, was later discovered on the boy’s pants.
      On Apr. 12, 1972, then Mahoning County Coroner Dr. David Belinky ruled Bradley Bellino’s death was the result of strangulation. Dr. Belinky said the interval between the onset of death and actual death was “sudden.”
      “We are now looking at familial DNA to see if we can develop a new lead in the case,” Werth said.
      For years the Bellino case stood dormant, until 2001, when the Boardman Police Department revisited the case and could not develop any new leads.
      Sources suggest a list of at least 20 possible suspects was developed.
      “Only four or five of those people seem to stand out,” Capt. Albert Kakascik told The Boardman News.
  Briarfield Opens Memory Care Center At The Inn At Walker Mill  
  January 31, 2019 Edition  
     Briarfield Health Care Centers opened memory care at their latest assisted living facility, The Inn at Walker Mill. The 16-suite community, Journeys at Walker Mill, is a safe and secure floor devoted to serving those with dementia and other memory disorders.
      “I’m excited for the opportunity to serve a very special population,” says Amanda Rivera, executive director. Rivera received her Certified Dementia Practitioners (CDP) credentials in late 2016 and has been with Briarfield since last spring.
      Journeys will implement a person-centered approach to care which allows the staff at Walker Mill to focus on each individual’s needs and preferences, Rivera explained.
      From the design of the community to specific activities, she has meticulously chosen every detail for Journeys. For example, name badges that read “HELP” in red were selected because red is the last color a person with dementia can see and orange plates were picked for meals because studies have shown orange stimulates appetite.
      “I think our program is unique. Resident safety is very important but so is purposeful programming,” Rivera added. “Our program director, Kelly Ciavarella, works with our residents every day to engage in activities that are meaningful.”
      Other memory care features include specialized quarterly assessments, group and one-on-one activities, sensory rooms, free medical transportation, a spa-like bathing experience, weekly laundry and housekeeping services, and a dedicated dining room. A resource library of books, websites and DVDs is available to resident’s family and friends to help them navigate their journey as a caregiver.
      Located on South Ave. in Boardman, The Inn at Walker Mill features 32 assisted living suites in addition to its memory care floor. For more information or to schedule a tour, call 330-758-8855.
      About Briarfield
      Briarfield Health Care Centers provides the highest level of rehabilitation, elder care, memory care and senior living services. Ed and Diane Reese, CEO and President, respectfully, are committed to serving the area’s senior population with eight locations throughout the Mahoning Valley, including Briarfield Manor and Briarfield at Ashley Circle in Austintown, The Inn at Christine Valley in Youngstown, The Inn at Ironwood in Canfield, The Inn at Glenellen and The Villas at Glenellen in North Lima, The Inn at Poland Way in Poland, and The Inn at Walker Mill in Boardman.
  Man Said He Checked Out Of Wagon Wheel Motel After Discovering Bed Bug Infestation In Room  
  January 24, 2019 Edition  
      Two Boardman police officers said they were approached by a man in the parking lot of Boardman United Methodist Church, 6809 Market St., about 5:00 a.m. on Sat., Jan. 19, who said he needed a taxi after checking out of a room at the Wagon Wheel Motel, 7015 Market St., claiming a bed was infested with bed bugs.
      According to Ptl. Joseph Lamping, Timothy Redman said he and a female acquaintance rented a room for one night.
      “At one point, Redman said he awakened to find bugs crawling in his bed. He stated he recognized them as bed bugs,” Officer Lamping said, adding that Redman said he also had several roaches in his room.
      “Redman attempted to address the situation with the manager on duty, however he was refused a refund for the room. He did not wish to spend the rest of the night in a room infested with bugs, so he checked out of the motel,” Officer Lamping said.
  Mahoning County GOP Chairman Mark Munroe Will Leave His Post  
  January 24, 2019 Edition  
Mark Munroe
      After 40 years of service to the Mahoning County Republican Party, Chairman Mark Munroe, of Glenwoods Ct., Boardman, announces he is retiring as party chairman, effective February 21 with the election of a new chairman.
      Over the past 40 years, Munroe has served as a volunteer and precinct committeeman in Austintown and Boardman. As a party officer, he has served as 6th vice-chairman, 3rd vice-chairman and party treasurer. He was 1st vice-chairman under Chairman Dennis Vitt and later under Chairman Clarence R. Smith. Munroe has been elected three times as party chairman, and is in his ninth year as chairman.
      Munroe served two terms as state committeeman for the Ohio Republican Party representing the 33rd state senate district. He attended three national presidential nominating conventions as a delegate or alternate delegate. He was appointed twice by Gov. John Kasich to serve as a member of the state racing commission. For 25 years he has served on the Mahoning County Board of Elections and is currently chairman of the board. In his early Republican career he served two terms as president of the Mahoning County Young Republicans.
      Under party by-laws, the members of the GOP county central committee will meet to elect a new chairman. That meeting is set for Thursday, Feb. 21 at 7:00 p.m.
      Munroe had this comment: “It has been a privilege to serve this party and to reach many of our goals. Republican registration has more than doubled and we have had good success at the ballot box. Our finances are sound and we have a great group of volunteers with one of the best county headquarters in the state. My number one goal has always been to bring real political competition to the county, and while there is more work to do, we have made great progress. It’s time to pass the baton to the next generation of leadership,” Munroe said.
      Munroe plans to stay active in the party as a volunteer and provide help with the transition to a new chairman.
  Athletic Director Denise Gorski Will Retire After 42-Year Career With Boardman School System  
  Contributions To Track And Field...Have Made Her Recognized And Respected Throughout The State:   January 24, 2019 Edition  
Denise Gorski
     BY JOHN A. DARNELL JR.
      associate editor
      A longtime fixture in the Boardman Local Schools, including as a teacher, coach and athletic director, Mrs. Denise Gorski, will retire at the end of the current academic year.
      Mrs. Gorski began her lengthy and legendary tenure with the local school system in 1977 as a physical education teacher.
      Her career at Boardman High School included 32 years as head coach of the Lady Spartans track and field team, as well as stints as a and girls basketball and golf coach.
      She became the first female athletic director at Boardman in 2014, following her retirement from coaching.
      During her coaching career, Gorski’s track and field teams posted a 271-67-1 mark, including a dozen Steel Valley Conference titles, 15 Mahoning County titles (including ten in a row, from 2001-2010) and nine district championships.
      She brought Boardman Lady Spartan track and field teams to a level of competition that gained note around the state of Ohio. Though the job as a head coach consumed much of her time, she found even more time to keep in touch with her former athletes, often traveling to their track meets after they left high school.
      Among them was Allison Brager, now a captain in the United States Army.
      “You taught me the importance of hard work, discipline and perseverance. You led many young, talented women into promising careers in track and field, and life,” said Brager.
      Another athlete Mrs. Gorski coached was U.S. Olympic hopeful and four-time Highland Games world champion Adriane Blewitt-Wilson.
      “Denise mentored me in ways more than just an inspiring teacher, disciplined coach or successful female professional. She stood by me when our family suffered the tragic loss of my father...she helped me narrow down my path for collegiate athletics, and continued to rally for my success when cancer threatened my Olympic dreams.
      “As an educator, she emphasized accountability and hard work for all her students, even with kids not involved in sports,” Blewitt-Wilson said, adding “It is rare to find a coach who will take on the responsibility of an entire team of adolescent girls, and still have the energy to guide them to athletic victories and personal growth.
      “She understood how the mind of an athlete must be nutured, inspired and pushed to excellence. Her workouts were tough and she would never bend the rules...Our minds were as tough as our bodies in competition.”
      When Mrs. Gorski took over the duties of athletic director at Boardman High School, she immediately improved the visibility of the some two-dozen Spartan sports programs with an improved statistical reporting system.
      She also played a lead role in the construction of the new Boardman Stadium that opened in 2015, and she help to create the ‘Spartan Spirit Crew’ to boost school spirit.
      On 2009, Mrs. Gorski was honored with induction into the Ohio Association of Track and Cross Country Coaches (OATCC) Hall of Fame.
      “Denise Gorski’s contributions to track and field...have made her recognized and respected throughout the state...Her warm, friendly, enthusiastic personality has gained her many supporters. We are proud to add her name to the roll of distinguished recipients,” said the OATCC).
      Upon her retirement as a coach, Mrs. Gorski was honored in 2014 by the Mahoning Valley Coaches Association (MVCA).
      “She is the teacher/educator and coach future educational professionals should aspire to be,” said then MVCA president Rob Conklin.
      A graduate of Cuyahoga Falls High School and Kent State University, Mrs. Gorski and her husband Dan, have been married for 37 years.
      “I have to thank my husband, Dan, for being so supportive of my coaching and athletic director’s career. We were both involved in coaching for the same number of years and without his support, I wouldn’t have been at it this long,” Mrs. Gorski said.
  School Board Wants To Close Market St. Elementary School  
  Center Intermediate Will House Fourth Through Sixth Grade Students:   January 17, 2019 Edition  
     ‘Many Details Must Still Be Worked Out’
      BY JOHN A. DARNELL JR.
      associate editor
      First-opened in 1950 to combat overcrowding at Boardman School, Market St. Elementary School will shutter its doors at the end of the current school year. Market St. Elementary was the first ‘separate’ school building ever erected by the Boardman Board of Education.
      The public school district’s enrollment has been declining for more than a decade. Current enrollment at Market St. is 351 students, more than half who are deemed ‘economically disadvantaged’ by the Ohio Department of Education.
      “While most may believe cost savings is the driving force behind the recommendation, cost savings is not the only benefit, nor the greatest benefit,” said Supt. Tim Saxton. “Ultimately, we believe this move will help us provide greater educational services in a more efficient manner.”
      The superintendent said the local school district will save at least $500,000 a year by closing the elementary school.
      “On a $45 million general fund budget, I would think there would be a greater cost savings. $500,000 is a projection. We hope it is higher but we are trying to be practical,” Saxton said.
      According to the superintendent, no teachers currently at Market St. will lose their jobs when the school closes.
      Boundaries for students attending the three elementary school have yet to be determined, Saxton said.
      A news release about closing Market St. Elementary School, issued last week stated “The prospect of closing Market Elementary has been discussed in district-wide focus groups and strategic planning sessions that date back more than a decade. The school board believes now is the time to move ahead with that plan. Formal action is expected at the January 28 Board of Education meeting.”
      With the closing Market Street Elementary School, The remaining three elementary schools (Stadium Dr., Robinwood Lane and West Blvd.) will become kindergarten through third grade buildings; and all fourth grade students in Boardman Local Schools will attend to Center Intermediate. (Center will become a 4-6 grade building)
      History
      Market St. Elementary School was built with funding (a bond issue) approved by the electorate in the late 1940s.
      At that time, enrollment in the local school district was reported growing at some 8 per cent annually. Amidst such growth in student population, Supt. Irvin J. Nisonger noted “The need for Boardman’s new, separate elementary school...being built on a 14-acre plat between Meadwobrook Ave. and Erskine Ave. is shown by the large number of children between the ages of vie and seven-years-old in the school district.
      “The new elementary school at the north end of the township will absorb part of the overcrowding when the first six grades are opened there.”
      Although the school board projected cost of the new school to be $700,000, its construction was actually closer to $1 million.
      Among 19 firms that submitted bids to construct Market St. Elementary School, G.F. Howard Co. of Canfield was selected as the general contractor for the project at a cost of $557,501, a cost that was reported at the time at about $120,000 lower that the next lowest bidder.
      Other bids for the construction of the new school were taken for cafeteria equipment, plumbing, heating, and electrical work.
      “Despite its desire for economy, the school board is faced with the problem of providing adequate room, even at inflated prices, for the children of Boardman,” Supt. Nisonger said at the time, adding “The school will be one of the show places of Ohio, rating as perhaps the best of its kind in the state in physical equipment.”
      During the construction of Market St. Elementary School, then Boardman Trustees Fay C. Heintzelman, Howard Cherry and J. Donald Smith waived building permit fees for the project.
      “Collecting that fee, we felt, not only would be kind of double taxation, it would be diverting tax money from Boardman people which can be well used in building our new school,” Trustee Cherry said.
  Brain Tumor Claims The Life Of A 16-Year Veteran Of The Boardman Police Department, Heather Dobbins  
  Served The Community And Police Department With Faithfulness, Dedication And Loyalty:   January 17, 2019 Edition  
Heather Dobbins
     BY JOHN A. DARNELL JR.
      associate editor
      It was on Mon., Jan. 7 that veteran Boardman police officer Heather Englert Dobbins posted on Facebook that she was not asking for any pity party when she notified her many friends that she was in the Cleveland Clinic for a brain tumor “that was found after a month of bad back and neck pain, and headaches.
      “I have to wait until Friday morning to have it removed and tested. Thankfully, I have the best family anyone could ask for,” she said.
      Heather didn’t make it, and died Fri., Jan. 11, before surgery. It was just the day before that she visited with her parents and brother, and the focus of her life, her daughter, Olivia.
      Officer Dobbins was a 16-year member of the Boardman Police Department, and she was on the job until Fri., Jan. 4, when she could no longer endure the pain caused by the tumor, and sought emergency medical treatment.
      “Heather did everything with her family. Despite the pain, she always had a smile on her face,” a co-worker said this week.
      Her untimely death galvanized the Boardman Police Department that has honored Officer Dobbins by retiring her badge number, #2030. Over 25 Boardman police cruisers led a procession during funeral services held Wed., Jan. 16 in her hometown of Salem, Oh. Leading that procession was her cruiser, ‘car #20.’ As well, a police honor guard stood by her during memorial services.
      A 1996 graduate of Salem High School, Officer Dobbins earned a degree in criminal justice from Youngstown State University in 2000.
      She joined the Boardman Police Department on July 11, 2003, becoming the third female officer with the department. She was a member of the Boardman Fraternal Order of Police, Lodge #43.
      On 2009, Officer Dobbins earned a degree in middle childhood education from Youngstown State University.
      She was born June 20, 1978 in Salem, Oh., a daughter of Richard and Gaylene (Kekel) Englert.
      Heather is survived by one daughter, who was her life, her mini me, and BFF, Olivia Marie Dobbins of Boardman; her parents, Richard and Gaylene Englert of Salem; one brother, Scott (Dr. Kim Truong) Englert of Seattle, Wash.; and numerous aunts, uncles, cousins and friends.
      In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to a Scholarship Trust Fund for Olivia.
      Officer Dobbins was recognized by a moment of silence last weekend at the Boardman vs. Howland basketball game; and during a moment of silence observed when Boardman Township Trustees met on Monday, as Trustee Chairman Larry Moliterno lauded the outpouring of support from the community.
      Officer Dobbins was then recognized by proclamation---
      “Whereas Officer Dobbins served the community and department with faithfulness, dedication and loyalty;
      “And whereas we recognize Heather Englert Dobbins for her contributions to the Boardman Township Police Department and to the community of Boardman Township;
      “We hereby tender this proclamation honoring Heather Englert Dobbins and retire her Boardman Police Department number, #2030, in memory of her friendship, selflessness and kindness,” said the proclamation.
      As a final tribute, the Boardman Police Department dispatch center gave Officer Dobbins one last call---
      “Attention all units prepare to copy the final call for unit 2030 Officer Heather Dobbins
      “Boardman Dispatch to unit 2030 …..
      “Boardman Dispatch to unit 2030 …..
      “Boardman Dispatch to unit 2030 Officer Heather Dobbins badge number 2030 .....
      “Negative response from Boardman unit 2030….
      “It is with great sorrow that we mourn the passing of Boardman Officer Heather Dobbins badge number 2030, who served the Boardman Police Department and the citizens of Boardman Township for 16 years.
      “A true public servant, your dedication to duty and devotion to your family, especially your beloved daughter Olivia, was beyond reproach. You have made your family and the people you have served very proud.
      “Your presence at the Boardman Township Police Department with always be remembered and never replaced.
      “All units be advised, that as of January 11, 2019, Officer Heather Dobbins Boardman Police Department unit 2030 is signal 13 (out of service) for the remainder. You will be missed and never forgotten.
      “May you rest in peace, we have the watch from here.”
     
  Safe Community Initiative 162 Citations, 56 Arrests  
  Market St. Corridor The Focus:   January 10, 2019 Edition  
     In May, 2018 the Boardman Police Department instituted a proactive police patrol program called the Safe Community Initiative. This program was implemented with the primary goal of providing an increased police presence along the business corridor of Market Street (during the active months of summer) in a crime reduction initiative.
      “The increased patrols, used in addition to our routine presence in this area, utilized interdiction techniques and traffic enforcement to deter criminal activity and apprehend individuals involved in illegal activity. The increased manpower used during this initiative was funded by a $30,000 grant received through the Coalition for a Drug Free Mahoning County,” Boardman Police Chief Todd Werth said.
      During this period, Boardman officers working under this program conducted 964 traffic stops/pedestrian contacts, issued 162 citations, and made 56 arrests.
      Boardman police “officer’s proactive efforts resulted in the apprehension of various subjects in possession of illegal narcotics, subjects with outstanding warrants, drug traffickers, and subjects found to be in possession of stolen or unauthorized use of vehicles,” Chief Werth said.
      The above results were in addition to the existing focus by the Boardman Police Department on this area of the township.
      “The safety along the Market Street corridor, to include the surrounding neighborhoods, remains a focus. We’ll continue to prioritize existing resources and seek out additional avenues such as this grant to continue our work in this area,” the chief said.
  Woman Said She Awoke To Find Her Boyfriend Not Breathing In Room At Wagon Wheel Motel  
  Police Told 39-Year-Old Man Who Died Was A Heroin Addict Who Was Clean For 80 Days:   January 10, 2019 Edition  
     BY JOHN A. DARNELL JR.
      associate editor
      A 39-year-old Salem man was pronounced dead at 7:20 a.m. on Thurs., Jan. 3 in the emergency room at Mercy Health Medical Center in Boardman, about 45 minutes after a woman called 9-1-1 to say she awoke to find her boyfriend not breathing in a room at the Wagon Wheel Motel, 7015 Market St.
      Fire department EMS, as well as an ambulance crew went to the motel at 6:42 a.m. on Jan. 3, where Samantha Maxwell, 32, of 7071 Berry Blossom Dr., Canfield, Oh. said when she woke-up, about 6:40 a.m., she discovered her boyfriend “not breathing, blue and white, and cold to the touch,” Ptl. Rob Spatar said.
      Maxwell told Ptl. Tim Hughes she and her boyfriend got into an argument about 10:00 p.m. on Jan. 2 “because her boyfriend wanted to get high and she did not.” She told the policeman her boyfriend was a “former drug user, primarily heroin, and had been clean for approximately 80 days” adding he took travadone to go to sleep, as well as seroquel for other issues.
      “Maxwell told Ptl. Hughes at approximately 3:00 a.m., her boyfriend tore the room apart, looking for his medication “that he took everyday,” adding “he must have taken all of it,” Officer Spatar said.
      While investigating the possible death, police learned that Maxwell was wanted on three warrants, including one for theft in Boardman Township. Her lengthy arrest records include theft and drug charges dating back to 2004.
      According to police, Kelsey Simon, of the Mahoning County Coroner’s Office “declined to respond to the scene.” Boardman Police Department Capt. Albert Kakascik assigned Det. Greg Stepuk to investigate the death.
      Pronounced dead at 7:27 a.m. in the emergency room by Dr. Awad Spirtos at Mercy Health was Craig Adam Apinis, 2169 Edgewood Dr., Salem, Oh.
      Maxwell was taken to the Mahoning County Jail on a warrant for the theft of $75 worth of merchandise at Wal-Mart, 1300 Doral Dr., on Oct. 7, 2018.
      She was also the subject of a warrant issued out of Austintown on June 26, 2018 for the theft of $511 from the Zodiac Lounge and Grille, 169 South Forest Hill Rd., Austintown; as well as a warrant issued on June 8, 2018 out of Austintown for failing to appear in court on charges possession of criminal tools and soliciting.
      According to Boardman police, on Oct. 7, 2018, a female in a wheelchair was observed at Wal-Mart at a self-checkout using a 25-cent Kool Aid packet to scan merchandise, rather than the actual item.
      “After scanning all the items, the female then removed her food assistance card from her wallet and acted like she was going to scan the card, but never did,” Ptl. Michael Calautti said, adding that “the female then gathered the now bagged items and placed them into the wheelchair’s basket and proceeded to exit the store” where she was then detained by security.
      The suspect was requested to then return to the loss prevention office at Wal-Mart.
      “Initially she complied, but then said the Wal-Mart loss prevention was not the police and she was not going to stay,” Officer Calautti was told, noting the suspect then left the store and left the parking lot in a Ford Focus.
  A Christmas Miracle  
  A Home For The Holidays, And Forever:   December 20, 2018 Edition  
Merry Christmas Bella
     ‘Bella Came To Us With Every Ailment Imaginable’
      Somewhere on a cold and blustery January day in 2018, a decripted-looking dog, somewhere between 7 and 11-years-old, was found missing 80 per cent of her hair and walking on paws that were bleeding, not to mention the pooch had to endure the outside temperatures.
      “She came to us with every imaginable ailment,” Erin Misalko, of Boardman, recalls. Erin and her husband, John, wanted to help the dog and took her in. Bella immediately bonded with the Misalko’s 12-year-old black lab, Benny, making the job of getting Bella healthy and comfortable in a real home, a bit easier.
      With a lot of help from an animal rescue agency, No Fear Rescue, of Campbell, Oh., Bella was turned over to the Misalkos last February.
      “If it wasn’t for No Fear Rescue, we wouldn’t have the privilege of caring for Bella,” John Misalko said this week.
      Once the Misalkos had the chance to care for Bella, they immediately learned there would be a lot of medical bills.
      For example, to treat Bella’s skin conditions, the pooch needed a special body wash (micro-bubble bath) that still to this day she is receiving.
      And up to the plate stepped No Fear Rescue. The organization raised the needed funds for supplies Bella’s special baths and specialized doctor’s care, and eleven months later, though Bella still doesn’t have all her fur, she is itch free.
      After her initial skin treatments, All Paws Matter, of Sharpsville, Pa. has also helped out, paying for a year’s worth of the special baths Bella needs.
      In addition to the skin treatments, Bella needed several surgeries to take lesions off her feet and tail. No Fear Rescue even funded special surgeries that Bella received in Pittsburgh, Pa.
      As well, Dr. Sam Costello, of the Town and Country Veterinary Clinic in Warren, Oh. offered to help.
      “He was unbelievable,” Erin recalls. And how lucky the Misalkos were to find Dr. Costello. A member of K-9’s for Compassion, and a 2006 winner of a Distinguished Veterinarian Award, he, his wife, Katie, and daughter, Anastiya, own eight dogs and seven cats.
      With care and compassion, Bella now likes to play with Benny and soak-up all the love her new owners give to her.
      “When she came to us, her eyes were so clouded so couldn’t see. Her paws were infected and raw, and she had a terrible infection. After many trips to the vet and several surgeries, she is now medication free,” Erin said this week, giving praise to No Fear Rescue and to Dr. Costello.
      “Whatever they could do to help has always been their intent. They have gone above and beyond the call to help this dog.
      “When it comes down to it, helping the animal and doing what’s best is all that really matters,” Erin said.
      “Bella is so loving and a part of our family,” John Misalko says.
      Though she can only eat venison-based dog foods, John says Bella “now wants in on everything.
      “If it wasn’t for No Fear Rescue, Bella may not be alive right now.”
      Mrs. Misalko was asked what it meant to she and her husband to now have Bella in their home, especially at this time of year.
      “It means everything. She is wonderful. To think what she must have gone through, and where she is today, we are blessed,” Erin said, as her husband added, “Bella runs the home. She has a bed in every room, and she is happy. “It says something about the unconditional love a dog can give.”
  WHERE THE HOLIDAY SPIRIT ABOUNDS  
  BOARDMAN PARK:   November 29, 2018 Edition  
     COMMUNITY CHRISTMAS
      Boardman’s 22nd annual Community Christmas Celebration will be held Sun., December 2, from 4:00 p.m. to 6:00 p.m. in Boardman Park. Boardman Trustees are expected to be on hand for the Christmas Tree lighting ceremonies that take place as Santa arrives via a Boardman fire truck. Music will be provided in historic Old St. James Church by the Boardman High School choral and instrumental music departments.
      SEASON OF LIGHTS DISPLAY
      There are a host of holiday activities in Boardman Park, including the annual Season of Lights display that will run through Jan. 7, 2019. The light display runs from 6:00 p.m. to 10:00 p.m. nightly. Tune into 88.9 on the FM dial to enjoy holiday music that accompanies the light display.
      SUPPER WITH SANTA
      On Wed., Dec. 5 and Thurs., Dec. 6, from 5:30 p.m. to 7:30 p.m. both nights, children are invited to have Supper with Santa. The night includes food, drinks, crafts and music. Fee is $7/resident and $9/non-resident. No tickets will be sold at the door. Call the park at 330-726-8105 for reservations and information. No tickets will be sold at the door.
      SANTA CALLING
      This holiday season, Boardman Park is assisting Jolly Old St. Nick by providing a direct line from the North Pole to the community. Parents who would like their children to receive a phone call from Santa can pick-up a form at the park office, or download it off the park’s web site. The program is for kids 3 to 8-years-old. Reservation for the special phone call are needed by Dec. 7. There is no cost to participate.
      COOKIES FOR SANTA
      On Wed., Dec. 129, from 5:30 p.m. to 7:30 p.m. a special Cookies for Santa program will be held in the park’s Community Center. Parents can enjoy baking with their little one. Children will make cut-out cookies and holiday waffles, then decorate their creations. Cost is $3/person for resident and $4/person for non-residents. Call the park office for additional details. No tickets will be sold at the door.
      ELEGANT STRING QUARTET
      On Sat., Dec. 22, Boardman Park will conclude its holiday programs with a concert presented by the Elegant String Quartet, from 5:00 p.m. to 6:30 p.m. at Olde St. James Church. The concert is free and open to the public. St. James will be decorated for the event with handmade creations provided by the Holborn Herb Growers Guild.
  Veteran Boardman Police Officer Brian Habeger Promoted To Lieutenant  
  November 15, 2018 Edition  
Lt. Brian Habeger
     Boardman Trustees promoted veteran police officer Brian Habeger to the post of lieutenant at their regularly-scheduled meeting on Monday night at the Government Center.
      Lt. Habeger has served in the law enforcement profession for almost three decades. After graduating from South Range High School, he attended Youngstown State University, graduating with a degree in criminal justice.
      Lt. Habeger received his Ohio Peace Officer Certification from Western Reserve Institute and began his career in law enforcement with the Austintown Police Department, serving there from 1989 to 1992. He then joined Poland Police Department where he served until 1997, when he joined the Boardman Police Department, where he was promoted to sergeant in 2002.
      Also at Monday’s meeting, acting upon the recommendation of Road Superintendent/Land Bank Manager Marilyn Kenner, Trustees accepted property at 4055 Tippecanoe Rd. as township property.
      “The property has a riparian area and should remain as green space,” Kenner said.
  ALL RENTAL UNITS MUST REGISTER WITH PLANNING/ZONING OFFICE BY MAR. 1, 2019  
  November 15, 2018 Edition  
     All rental units in Boardman Township must be registered with the Planning/Zoning Office by Mar. 1, 2019. The rental registration fee is $40 per unit. Large apartment buildings are required to pay a $150 fee and an additional $15 per unit.
      Owners of rental units in the Boardman Township can voluntarily register by Mar. 1, 2019, or face penalty fees.
      For more information call the Planning/Zoning Office at 330-726-4181.
  Bob Loree, Son Of Sandwich Factory Founder, Retires After More Than 40 Years Of Making Those Great Big Subs  
  November 8, 2018 Edition  
      After working and operating The Sandwich Factory for over 45 years, co-owner Bob Loree is retiring.
      The Sandwich Factory opened its first location in Austintown in 1974, founded by Loree’s late father, Joe Loree Sr., and his wife, Rosemary, as a family-run business serving gigantic submarine sandwiches to the communities. A short time later, Loree opened his second location at 6128 Market St. (at Cadillac Dr.).
      Bob and his wife, Victoria, have been in charge of the Boardman Sandwich Factory since 1980. With the passing of Mr. Loree Sr, and one of the other co-owners, Timothy Loree, Bob feels it is now the right time to ‘hang up the apron.’
      “It has been difficult since my dad and brother passed away, and I want to be able to spend time some quality time with my family and enjoy retirement.” Bob said this week.
      “My dad, brother, and I maybe did not always see eye to eye but we knew to take care of family first and that’s what I would like to do now with mine.”
      Bob has had his all three of his children---Jason, Rick and Michelle work with he and his wife over nearly four decades, and observes retirement is bittersweet.
      “Growing up working with my dad at the Sandwich Factory has given me a lot of memories” Michelle Loree said, adding “and I will miss working there but it time to start is a new chapter in my life and branch out on our own, together as a family.”
      “Working in a family business, especially in the food industry is tough, you need to find good people to work with and have a constant presence,” said Victoria Loree, adding “We have learned a lot about the food industry and we are seeing trends pointing to people wanting a more healthy dinning options.”
      “My dad has taught me a lot over the years and I think coming up with a new concept will be a fun family project where we can start making our own legacy” stated Rick, whose artworks hung in the Boardman store.
      The Sandwich Factory will remain open and be operated by former Boardman police officer, Joe Loree Jr.
      “Joe Jr. wanted to take the reigns and try and do what our dad did and I wish him luck, he is going to need it! The industry is tough and he has a lot to learn, but I am sure he can figure it out!” Bob said noting “ I worked hard for my dad and family for my entire life and I am going to miss my routines. But now I can focus on what is really important to me, my wife and family.”
      The Sandwich Factory always featured high-quality, big sandwiches in many varieties, at a low price, all of which has yielded a high rate of return customers. The Boardman location also had an additional element---Bob Loree and his unique personality, that always made it a pleasure to stop and eat inside the local store.
      Chances are, we might see Bob and family again, perhaps operating their own style restaurant somewhere else in Boardman Township.
      PICTURED: BOB LOREE, AND HIS WIFE, Victoria, have retired from operating the Sandwich Factory at 6128 Market St. where they have greeted customers for more than 40 years.
  Hunter, Houser, McNabb Welsh Highly Recommended By Bar Association For Mahoning County Court Seats  
  Rated By County Bar Association:   November 1, 2018 Edition  
     There will be six candidates on the Nov. 6 election ballot seeking the county court seat vacated earlier this year by Diane Vettori, who is the subject of a criminal investigation and is prohibited by the Ohio Supreme Court from hearing cases while her case is pending.
      Of the six candidates seeking the seat, only one is rated as “Highly Recommended” by the Mahoning County Bar Association and that is Atty. Kathi McNabb Welsh, of Deer Run Dr., Boardman. McNabb Welsh has served as the Mahoning County Chief Deputy Clerk of Courts since Dec., 1994 and has been a member of the county’s education service center’s governing board since June, 2003. She has also served as an Assistant Mahoning County Prosecutor.
      The bar association considered the qualities of legal knowledge, professional experience, judicial temperament, integrity, diligence and professional responsibility is giving McNabb Welsh its top rating.
      Not recommended for the post is Atty. Molly Johnson, the only candidate on the Nov. 6 ballot who is not recommended by the bar association. Johnson’s campaign ads suggest she will give child predators a heavy sentence, even though if elected, she would sit in a misdemeanor court.
      “Recommended” ratings were given to candidates J.P. Morgan, Matt Gambrel, A. Ross Douglas and Chris Sammarone.
      Two other county court seats will also be up for election, seats held by Judge Scott Hunter and Judge Joseph Houser. They are unopposed and have received “highly recommended” ratings by the Mahoning County Bar Association.
  Kathi McNabb Welsh For County Court Judge Michael Rulli For 33rd District State Senator  
  November 1, 2018 Edition  
     OPIONION:
      On Tues., Nov. 6, the general election will be held and races of particular, local interest include a crowded field for a judge in the county courts; and an interesting race for 33rd District State Senator.
      Six candidates are seeking one seat on the county court. Qualified candidates, in our opinion, are Kathi McNabb Welsh, Matt Gambrel, J.P. Morgan and A. Ross Douglass.
      We would agree with Mahoning County Democratic Party Chairman, Atty. Dave Betras, that Chris Sammarone is not qualified for the seat.
      Another candidate, Molly Johnson, is quite unqualified and lacks courtroom experience. Her campaign ads, in our opinion, are very, very misleading.
      Of all the candidates, only one has a lengthy record of service, Kathi McNabb Welsh. Indeed, she is the only candidate rated as “Highly Qualified” by the Mahoning County Bar Association. For the best qualified candidate for county court judge, vote for Kathi McNabb Welsh.
      The race for 33rd district state senator features Dem John Boccieri against Republican Michael Rulli.
      Mr. Boccieri has a lengthy record of public service. However, when heavy rains fell in August in Boardman, Mr. Boccieri didn’t help deliver any help, as if he or any, other state official could have anyway. In fact he issued a press release more related to his politics, than providing help. The press release was an abhorrent, ill-founded attack on a Boardman Township Trustee.
      Mr. Rulli is a political newcomer.
      The best information in this race was provided during a radio broadcast on a Sunday morning by Morris ‘Mo’ Ray on WKBN. It is available on the web. Mr. Rulli stood tall during his interview, showing more than enough credibility that he deserves very strong consideration.
      The most critical issue facing the State Legislature, is public education. We doubt that neither Mr. Rulli or Mr. Boccieri will do anything about it, leaving charter schools to continue their abysmal showing, at the expense of the cornerstone of America, and that is public education.
  VOTE NO on State Issue 1  
  November 1, 2018 Edition  
     OPINION:
      An absolutely totally absurd statewide issue on next Tuesday’s general election ballot is State Issue I that would all but legalize small amounts of such hard drugs as heroin and fentynal.
      Drugs fuel much crime, like shoplifting, burglary and robbery because users don’t have the money to buy the illegal stuff they put into their bodies. Often when these addicts are arrested, they expect pity and treatment, because withdrawals from addiction is so painful.
      Issue I calls for a constitutional amendment mandating the state should use public money to rehabilitate heroin users, more tax money for dead beat addicts and criminals.
      We don’t see it that way at all. Drugs like heroin and fentynal are illegal, and they kill people.
      We stand with Mahoning County Drug Court Judge Jack Durkin and strongly urge a NO VOTE ON ISSUE 1.
  Former FBI Agent Named To Civil Service Commission  
  October 25, 2018 Edition  
     Gordon Johnson, a Boardman resident since 1977 and a retired FBI special agent, has been appointed to the Boardman Township Civil Service Commission by the Boardman Township Trustees.
      Johnson will fill the vacancy created by the death of longtime Civil Service Board Member Gary West for the remainder.
      Johnson served with the FBI for over 32 years and worked out of the Youngstown office from 1976 until his retirement in 2002.
      He graduated from Newark, Ohio High School in 1962, graduated from Ohio University in 1966 with a business degree. After earning a JD degree from The Ohio State University Law School in 1969, he joined the FBI.
      Johnson and his wife of 48 years, Holly, are the parents of three children, Eric, Heather, and Brett, all graduates of Boardman High School. He is a member of Boardman United Methodist Church where he has served as an usher and as chairman of the Board of Trustees.
      Additionally he previously served as president of Boardman Little League and as a Boardman Soccer Association coach for 14 years. During his free time Gordon enjoys spending time with his family, reading, and volunteering at Angels For Animals.
  Boardman Cheerleaders Biggest Donor At YSU Pink Ribbon Classic Event  
  October 25, 2018 Edition  
     Boardman High School varsity, junior varsity and freshman cheerleaders raised nearly $3,000 to fight breast cancer, as they claimed the ‘Biggest Donor” Award at the Pink Ribbon Cheer Classic at YSU on Sun., October 21. This is the second year Boardman took the ‘Biggest Donor’ title.
      “The BHS cheerleaders and coaching staff want to give a huge thank you to the Boardman community,” said Cheerleading Advisor Cassie Pantelis. “The girls reach out through many events and at home games, as well as hosting a cheer camp to raise donations. We appreciate everyone’s help for a cause that’s very close to our hearts.”
      The Pink Ribbon Cheer Classic is a cheer and dance exhibition created by the Zeta Tau Alpha Sorority at YSU, to raise money for breast cancer awareness, research and education. Now in its 18th year, the Pink Ribbon Cheer Classic has raised over a million dollars for the cause.
     
  Crowded Field In Race For County Court Judgeship  
  October 24, 2018 Edition  
     Kathi McNabb Welsh: “Throughout my legal career and my career in public service, I have held true to my core values of hard work,
      honesty and integrity.”
     
      J.P. Morgan: “My Christian faith provides the back drop and foundation of who I am...My life’s work reflects a dedication to seeking truth, to seeking what is good and just and seeking what is right.”
     
      Six candidates will be on the Nov. 6 general election ballot vying for the Mahoning County Court seat of suspended Judge Diane Vettori, who sat on the bench in Sebring.
      Vettori has been accused of improprieties in her capacity as a private attorney and is prohibited by the Ohio Supreme Court of hearing cases while charges against her are pending. She did not file petitions for re-election, and has rejected a plea bargain.
      Also on the ballot in uncontested races for seats on the county court are longtime judges Joseph Houser, who sits on the bench in Boardman Court; and Scott Hunter, who sits on the bench in Canfield Court.
      Austintown Court Judge David D’Apolito is also on the November ballot, seeking election to the Seventh District Court of Appeals, where he is opposing Kathleen Bartlett, who ascended to the seat last year when Mary DeGenaro was appointed to the Ohio Supreme Court. Should D’Apolito lose his bid for the Seventh District Appellate Court, he will remain as a county court judge.
      DeGenaro, a Republican, from Poland, Oh., is on the ballot seeking election to her seat and is opposed Democrat Melody Stewart.
      The six-person race for Vettori’s seat includes Kathi McNabb Welsh, 522 Deer Run Dr., Boardman; J.P. Morgan, 4020 Tippecanoe Rd., Boardman; Matt Gambrel, 8542 Ivy Hill Dr., Boardman; as well as Christopher Sammarone, 1680 Gully Top Dr., Canfield; Molly Johnson, 281 Chapel Lane, Canfield; and A. Ross Douglass, 3655 Villa Rosa Dr., Canfield.
      “Frankly, I could live with any of the candidates on the ballot,” one local attorney told The Boardman News.
      Conversations with three other attorneys suggest the most qualified candidates for Vettori’s seat are McNabb Welsh or J.P. Morgan, with Gambrel running with most aggressive campaign to date.
      A. Ross Douglass gets a rap in some circle, citing his inexperience in trying cases.
      Johnson is an unknown factor, with The Boardman News being told “She even has election signs up in Trumbull County, and I’ll bet her campaign will spend a lot of money.” Johnson currently has a misleading radio ad that suggests she would be harsh with child molesters, but the county court judge’s seat does not sentence in such cases.
      Sammarone has not been visible in the campaign with some suggesting he has inherited his father’s problems stemming from his tenure as Mayor of Youngstown.
      The four Mahoning County Courts service the largest numbers of cases among all courts in the county, including misdemeanors and civil cases.
      Information on many of the county court candidates can be found at Judicial Votes Count.
      Kathi McNabb Welsh
      According to Judicial Votes Counts, McNabb Welsh says “As a former assistant prosecuting attorney, I have experience in trying felony and misdemeanor jury and bench trials before the common pleas courts and municipal courts. I have argued cases before courts of appeals and have argued several times before the Supreme Court of Ohio. As Chief Deputy Clerk of Court, I have expanded my knowledge of the law in civil matters, including those handled by the county courts. Every day, I use my legal skills to ensure that the Clerk’s office, including the County Court Clerk’s office, is in compliance with the law and its many changes. Also, I have the unique experience of understanding the administration and operation of the Mahoning County Courts. I have also represented clients in private civil matters.
      She says she is running for the county court seat “because I believe that my unique qualifications and my record of qualified and ethical service to the law and to the community make me an ideal candidate for county court judge. Throughout my legal career and my career in public service, I have held true to my core values of hard work, honesty and integrity. As a school board member with over 15 years of elected office experience, I have served my constituents honorably. I will do the same as judge.”
      McNabb Welsh, 58, is currently Chief Deputy Clerk of Court for the Mahoning County Court of Common Pleas..
      J.P. Morgan
      According to Judicial Votes Count, Morgan, 44, says “As a practicing attorney in the Mahoning Valley for 17 years, I will bring a wide-ranging skill set and vast courtroom experience to the bench. My multi-county legal practice has allowed me to see how our area courts can run efficiently and justly. Serving as both a public defender (10 years) and acting prosecutor, I understand our criminal justice system from every angle. My civil litigation experience has given me the experience and knowledge of the law that will be needed to hear and decide those civil cases assigned to the County Court. I have been a trusted member of the bar association having served for 10 years (two as chairman) on the Trumbull County Ethics Committee, a committee that investigates and holds accountable lawyers who violate ethical rules.
      Asked why he is seeking a county court judgeship, Morgan says “Having lived in this valley since a young age, I have seen how corruption and poor decisions by local officials and judges have eroded the public confidence and trust in our government and courts. This is not acceptable to me. I want to serve as a Judge to bring integrity and a restored trust to the bench I seek. Our families and this community deserve a Court that they can trust to fairly, impartially and independently hear their case. A court that will apply the law correctly and now bow to political pressures. My Christian faith provides the back drop and foundation of who I am. Honesty, character and integrity are truths that I have been taught from a very young age. I have learned that integrity is not something you say you have, it is something you do. My life’s work reflects a dedication to seeking truth, to seeking what is good and just and seeking what is right. It is for these reasons I seek to become the next judge of the Mahoning County Court.”
      Matt Gambrel
      According to Judicial Votes Count, Gambrel, 36, says he has “worked on over 1,000 cases over the course of my career. I am very familiar with the types of cases that come through the court. This experience has given me a thorough understanding of all parties involved in the county court system. Because of my experience and understanding, I will make sure everyone before me is treated fairly and with respect and that my rulings will be just and appropriate. I do not believe in blanket policies and absolutes. I think every situation is different and needs to be heard and resolved based on the particular facts of each case. This takes time, patience, and real understanding and appreciation of the cases. My experience as a practicing attorney, actively practicing in the county court system since 2008 qualifies me to be a judge in this court.
      Gambrel says he is running “for this particular court seat because I think I have the experience and commitment to the community to run a fair and honest court...I am a member of the Boardman Lions Club, serving as club president for the past two years. As member have worked to raise money and help provide assistance for those in need in the community. I have chaired committees and worked with the local food pantry to establish a food pantry at the Boardman Center Intermediate School. I believe I can further better my community by serving as a County Court Judge. My professional experience, personal history and priorities, and temperament make me the ideal choice as county court judge.”
      A. Ross Douglass
      According to Judicial Votes Count, A. Ross Douglas says “I have served as Chief Trial Counsel for thousands of criminal and civil matters pending before the Mahoning County Courts located in Austintown, Boardman, Canfield and Sebring as well as the Court of Common Pleas General Division, Domestic Division and Juvenile Division. I have had the opportunity to handle many different types of cases including criminal defense, civil litigation, family law, probate, personal injury and mental health proceedings. Most important to me is that I serve as a Guardian Ad Litem in the Mahoning County Juvenile Court in an effort to protect the best interests of our community’s children.”
      Douglass says “Over the years as citizens of Mahoning County we have had to suffer repeated harm and embarrassment as a result of the criminal actions and ineptitude of so many of our elected officials. As someone who has spent the last 17 years in a courtroom, I have gained the highest respect for the office and I know how important it is for the citizens of Mahoning County to have a qualified judge. Through my extensive experience as a trial attorney, I have proven that I have the integrity to serve in this most respected capacity.”
  Township’s Annual Leaf Collection Program Will Run Oct. 22 - Nov. 16  
  Place Bagged-Leaves At Curbside:   October 18, 2018 Edition  
     The Boardman Township Road Department will be conducting its annual leaf pick-up program beginning Monday, Oct. 22 thru Friday, Nov. 16. Leaves must be placed in recyclable brown paper bags and brought to the curb for pick-up. The paper bags are available for purchase at local retail stores.
      Due to the Veteran’s Day holiday, no leaves will be picked up on Monday, Nov. 12,
      Residents with questions about the program can contact the township road department at 330-726-4190.
      Following is the leaf pick-up schedule:
     
      MONDAY
      RT. 224 ( WEST BLVD. – PINEWOOD), 5817 & 5829 MARKET ST., ALBURN, ALLEN, ANTHOS CT., ARAVESTA, ARLENE, BEECHWOOD (WEST OF TRACKS ), BROOKFIELD ( WEST BLVD. TO PARK ), BROOKWOOD, BUENA VISTA, CHESTER, CLIFTON ( WEST OF TRACKS ), COURT WAY, CRESTLINE, CRESTVIEW ( WEST BLVD. – PARK), DANBURY, DEVONSHIRE, ERSKINE (WEST OF TRACKS ), EWING (WEST BLVD. – PARK), FAIRLAWN, FERNCLIFF, FIRNLEY, FOREST HILL, FOREST PARK DR., FOREST PARK PL., FRIENDSHIP, GERTRUDE, GLEN PARK, GLENBROOK, GLENWOOD (MIDLOTHIAN TO SHIELDS), GOLFVIEW, HARRINGTON, HILLMAN ST., HILLMAN WAY, HOMESTEAD (WEST OF TRACKS), HUDSON, INDIANOLA (MARKET TO SOUTHERN), JENNETTE, KIWANA, LEMANS, LEIGHTON, LUNDY LA., MAPLE DR. (WEST OF TRACKS), MARINTHANNA, MEADOWBROOK (WEST OF TRACKS), MELROSE (WEST OF TRACKS), MIDLOTHIAN (MARKET TO GLENWOOD), MILL CREEK BLVD., MILL CREEK DR., NEWPORT, NEWPORT SQ., NEWTON, OAK KNOLL, OVERHILL, PINEWOOD, PLYMOUTH, PRESTWICK, RETA, ROMAINE, RON JOY, RON LEE, RON PARK, SCIOTA, SHADYSIDE (WEST OF TRACKS), SHELDON, SOUTHERN BLVD. ( RT. 224 TO CITY LINE), STANTON, STRATFORD, STUART, TERRACE (WEST OF THE TRACKS), WARREN CT., WEST BLVD. (RT. 224 TO GLENWOOD), WEST GLEN, WILDA, WILDWOOD (WEST BLVD. TO PARK), WILLOW, WINDSOR, WOODROW, WOODVIEW.
     
      TUESDAY
      ALAMOSA, AMHERST, ANGILINE, AQUADALE, ARDENDALE, AYLESBORO, BLUEBIRD, BONNELL, BRAINARD, BROOKFIELD (MARKET TO WEST BLVD.), CADILLAC BLVD., CARIBOU, CARTER CIRCLE, CATHY ANN, CENTERVALE, CLAYBOURNE, COLWYN CT., CRANBERRY RUN, CRESTON, CRESTVIEW ( NORTHLAWN TO WEST BLVD.), CRYSTAL DR., DEERPATH, DOMINICA, EASTERN, EWING (MARKET TO WEST BLVD.), FOREST GARDEN, FOREST LAKE DR., GARDEN GATE CT., GARDEN VALLEY, GARDEN VALLEY CT., GARDENVIEW, GARDENWOOD DR., GARDENWOOD PL., GARVER, GILBERT, GLENDALE, GLENWOOD ( WESTERN RESERVE TO SHIELDS ), GLENWOODS CT., GREENBAY, GREEN GARDEN, GRISWOLD, HITCHCOCK RD., INGRAM, JACKSON PL., JAN MARIE DR., JARONTE, LOCUST, LONGVIEW, LOST CREEK, LOST TREE, MARAMONT, MARGARET, MARLINDALE, MARLYN PL., MAYFLOWER DR., MELBOURNE, MIDGEWOOD, NORTH CADILLAC, NORTHLAWN, OAKLEY, OLD OXFORD, OLD SHAY, OREGON CIR., OREGON TR., PARKLAND, PAXTON, PEMBROOKE, PINETREE, RANIER, REDWOOD, RIDGEWOOD, ROCHE WAY, ROCKDALE, ROCKLAND, RUNNEMEADE, SALINAS TR., SANTE FE, SHIELDS ( MARKET TO WEST BLVD. ), SHOREHAVEN, SIERRA MADRE, SOUTH CADILLAC, SOUTH SHORE, SOUTHWOODS, SPARTAN, SPRING GARDEN CT., SPRING GARDEN DR., STADIUM, STILLSON, STONEY CREEK CT, STONEY CREEK DR., SUGARCANE, SUGARTREE, TITUS, TRENHOLM, VINELAND, WAGGAMAN, WESTERN RESERVE RD. ( MARKET TO TIPPECANOE ), WESTVIEW, WHITE HOUSE, WILDWOOD ( MARKET TO WEST BLVD. ), WITHERS, WOLCOTT.
     
      WEDNESDAY
      ALISSA PL., ANDERSON, ARDEN BLVD., AUGUSTA DR., BANBURY, BARBIE, BAYMAR, BECKY CT., BLACK FRIAR, BOB WHITE CT., BOB-O-LINK, BONNIE CT., CASCADE, CHERRYWOOD, COLLEEN, COVE, DEER RUN, DONCASTER, DONMAR, DOVER, EAGLE TRACE, EAST HUNTINGTON DR., EAST PARKSIDE, EAST PARKSIDE CT., FAWN, FLAGLER, FLORA, FOX HOLLOW, FOX RUN, FREDRICKSBURG, GILLIAN, GLENMERE,GREEN GLEN, GREYLEDGE, HARROW LA., HARROW PL., HEATHER CREEK RUN, HOPKINS RD., HUNTERS COVE, HUNTERS CT., HUNTERS GLEN, HUNTERS RIDGE, HUNTINGTON CIR., HUNTINGTON CT., HUNTINGTON DR., JAGUAR CT., JAGUAR DR., KIOWA, LAKE SHORE DR., LAVERNE, LEISKIN, LITTLE JOHNS, LOCH HEATH, LOCKWOOD BLVD., LOMA VISTA, LORETTA, LUCERNE, MACACHEE DR., MARY ANN CT., MEADOWLARK, MERE CT., MIDLOTHIAN ( WEST ), MILLTRACE, OLD HARBOUR, OYSTER BAY, PALMETTO, PARK HARBOUR, PHEASANT CT., PHEASANT DR., PIERCE, PIONEER, POWELL, QUAIL CT., RED FOX CT., RED FOX DR., RED GROUSE, REDTAIL HAWK, RISHER, RIVERSIDE, ROBINHOOD DR., ROBINHOOD WAY, ROSEWOOD, ROYAL PALM, SABLE CT., SABRINA, SCHENLEY, SHADELAND, SHADOW CREEK, SHARON, SHELBOURNE, SHELBY, SHIELDS RD. ( WEST BLVD. TO TIPPECANOE ), SILVER FOX, SPRING PARK, SQUIRREL HILL CT., SQUIRREL HILL DR., ST. ALBANS, STRALEY, STRATMORE, SUZYLINN, SYLVIA, TIMOTHY, TIPPECANOE RD., TIPPWOOD CT., TORI PINES, TRACY, TRAYMORE, TRAYMORE CT., TROTTER, TRUESDALE, TURNBERRY, VALLEY VIEW, WEST BLVD. EXT., WEST PARKSIDE, WESTPORT, WESTPORT CIR., WHIPOORWILL, WINDEL WAY, WINGED FOOT, YAKATA DORO, ZANDER.
     
      THURSDAY
      AFTON, ALVERNE, ANNAWAN, ARGYLE, BASIL, BEECHWOOD ( EAST OF TRACKS ), BORDER, BRANDON, CANAVAN, CANTERBURY, CATHY WAY, CHERIWOOD CT., CLIFTON ( EAST OF TRACKS ), COOK, COUNTRY CLUB, CRANBERRY CREEK, CRANBERRY LANE, ERIE, ERSKINE ( EAST OF TRACKS ), EUCLID BLVD., EVANS, GROVER, HALBERT, HOLEBROOKE, HOMESTEAD ( EAST OF TRACKS ), INDIANOLA RD. ( SOUTHERN BLVD. TO SOUTH AVE. ), IRMA, ISLAND DR., JEANNELYNN, JOCHMAN CT., JOHNSTON PL., LEALAND, LEMONT, LEMOYNE, LIGHTNER, LINGER, LYNN, LYNN MAR, MADONDA, MAPLE DR. ( EAST OF TRACKS ), MATHEWS RD., MAYPORT, MEADOW LANE, MEADOWBROOK ( EAST OF TRACKS ), MEADOWBROOK ( INDUSTRIAL ), MELROSE ( EAST OF TRACKS ), MONTROSE, MONTROSE CIR., MOYER, MULBERRY LA., NELLBERT, NEW ENGLAND, NOVA, OLES, ORLO LA., PALO-VERDE, PEACHTREE CT., ROBINWOOD DR., RUSH BLVD., RUSH CIR., SEQUOYA, SHADYSIDE ( EAST OF TRACKS ), SHERIDAN RD., SIMON RD., SOUTH AVE. ( MIDLOTHIAN TO MATHEWS ), SOUTHERN BLVD. ( EAST OF TRACKS ), SUNSET, TAM-O-SHANTER, TARA CT., TARA DR., TERRACE ( EAST OF TRACKS ), THALIA, TUDOR LA., VELMA CT., WASEKA, WEST ST., WINGATE, WOLOSYN CIR., WOODLAWN, WOODWARD, YARMOUTH.
     
      FRIDAY
      AMBERWOOD CT., AMBERWOOD TR., APPLECREST CT., APPLECREST DR., APPLERIDGE CIR., APPLERIDGE DR., APPLEWOOD BLVD., ASPEN LA., AUBURN HILLS DR., BEECH, BEV, BISHOP WOODS CT., BLUEBELL TR., BLUEBERRY, BOARDMAN BLVD., BRANDT, BRAZELTON, BRIDGEWOOD, BRISTLEWOOD, BUCHANAN, CALIFORNIA, CEDAR WAY, CHARLES AVE., CHERRY BLOSSOM TR., CHERRY HILL PL., CHESTNUT LA., COVER, CRIMSON TR., DAFFODIL, DEBARTOLO DR., DEGAULLE, DELAWARE, DORAL, EAST CALIFORNIA, EAST SOUTHWOODS, EDENRIDGE, EDGEWOOD OVAL, EISENHOWER, ELM, FAIRFIELD, FORESTRIDGE, FOXRIDGE, FOXWOOD CT., FRANKO CT., GLENRIDGE, GREENFIELD, HAVENWOOD, HELO PL., HICKORY HILL CT., HOLM WAY, INDIAN CREEK DR., INDIAN TRAIL, IVY HILL, JASPER CT., KARAGO, KENTWOOD, LARKRIDGE, LO, LYNNRIDGE, MAPLE AVE., MAPLERIDGE, MARWOOD CIR., MASSACHUSSETTS, MAYFIELD, MCARTHUR, MCCLURG, MCKAY, MEADOWWOOD CIR., MIDWOOD CIR., NEVADA, OAK, OAKRIDGE, PALESTINE, PARKWAY, PAULIN, PEARSON, PENNSYLVANNIA, PINEHILL, PRESIDENTIAL, PRESIDENTIAL CT., RAUB, RESERVE CT., RESERVE DR., RIDGEFIELD, ROSEHEDGE, SADDLEBROOK, SAHARA TR., SCOTLAND, SIGLE LA., SILVER MEADOW LA., SOUTH AVENUE ( MATHEWS TO WESTERN RESERVE ), SOUTH COMMONS, SOUTHERN BLVD. ( WESTERN RESERVE TO MATHEWS ), SOUTHFIELD, SOUTHWESTERN RUN, STADLER AVE., STADLER CT., STAFFORD, SUGAR CREEK, TAMARISK, TANGLEWOOD, TEAKWOOD, TERRAVIEW, TIFFANY, TIFFANY SOUTH, TOD, TRAILWOOD, TROTWOOD, TWIN OAKS, WALKER MILL RD., WALNUT, WASHINGTON BLVD., WENDY, WESTERN RESERVE RD. ( SOUTHERN BLVD. TO MARKET ), WESTFIELD DR., WHITMAN-CHASE, WINDHAM CT., WINTERBERRY, WOOD ST., WOODFIELD CT., YELLOW CREEK, YORK.
     
  Lawyers’ Group Urges No Vote On Issue 1  
  October 18, 2018 Edition  
     The Ohio State Bar Association (OSBA) has launched a statewide campaign urging Ohio Voters to reject State Issue 1 this November.
      “Issue 1 will lock poorly-written policy into the Ohio Constitution, and strips Ohio judges of their discretion in sentencing drug offenders. The Ohio State Bar Association strongly urges Ohioans to vote no on Issue 1,” said OSBA President Robin Weaver.
      The OSBA supports a strategy of treatment in lieu of conviction to curb Ohio’s opiate crisis, especially through Ohio’s drug courts and specialty docket programs, but Issue 1 goes too far. It makes possession of even deadly drugs, like fentanyl, a misdemeanor, and without the threat of jail time to compel offenders into court-run treatment programs, it is significantly less likely that addicts will get the help they need.
      “Issue 1 takes away important tools from Ohio judges that are saving lives,” Weaver said. “Issue 1 would decimate the good work being done in Ohio drug courts and could actually worsen Ohio’s drug crisis.”
      In addition, the Ohio State Bar Association maintains that specific and complex criminal law changes should be addressed through the legislative process, which would not alter the Constitution.
      “Fixing the problems and unintended consequences that will surely arise if Issue 1 were to pass would require another Constitutional amendment approved by voters,” said Weaver. “This is an expensive, time-consuming process with uncertain outcomes, that will greatly hinder the ability of law enforcement and policy makers to respond to Ohio’s ongoing opiate crisis.”
      The OSBA’s campaign is aimed at educating voters about the perils of Issue 1. Specifically, it targets ticket-splitting, highly-likely voters in the November election. The OSBA today unveiled www.NoOnIssue1.org, a website focused specifically on Issue 1, featuring a 30-second spot. The spot will also run statewide on digital platforms starting this week. The OSBA will also sponsor two tele-town halls with Ohio voters between now and Election Day.
      The OSBA urges voters to join Ohio’s judges, prosecutors, and treatment experts in voting NO on Issue 1.
  Murder Mystery Dinner At Camp Stambaugh Nov. 17  
  October 18, 2018 Edition  
      “A Night at the Oasis”, an original script 1920’s Murder Mystery Dinner will be held on Sat., Nov. 17, at 6:30 p.m. in the dining hall at Camp Stambaugh located at 3712 Leffingwell Rd., Canfield.
      This 1920’s Murder Mystery Dinner offer a choice of one of three entrees, Prime Rib, Chicken Francese or Crab-Stuffed Cod, salad, role and dessert. 1920’s dress is optional but suggested.
      Advanced ticket sales only and donations are $100 per couple or $60 a single. Tickets can be purchased at the Camp Stambaugh Scout Shop, 3712 Leffingwell Rd., Canfield, OH 44406 on Tues-Thurs from 12:00 to 7:00 p.m. and Saturdays from 9:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. and at the Great Trail Council Scout Shop, 1601 S. Main St. in Akron, OH 44301 on Mon-Fri, 9:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. and on Saturdays from 9:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. or call 234-223-6303.
      All proceeds will benefit Camp Stambaugh which will be celebrating its 100th Anniversary in 2019.
  Mahoning County District Board of Health  
  Weekly Flu Shot Clinic Oct 16-18:   October 15, 2018 Edition  
     The Mahoning County District Board of Health will be holding flu shot clinics at various locations throughout the county.
      Based based on the Centers for Disease Control’s (CDC) recommends the following should get a flu shot:
       Everyone 6 months of age and older should get a flu vaccine every season.
      People at High Risk of Developing Flu-Related Complications include: Children ages 6 months to 2 years old; Adults 65 years of age and older; Pregnant women and women up to 2 weeks postpartum Residents of nursing homes and other long-term care facilities; and chronic medical conditions such as asthma, COPD, cystic fibrosis, heart disease, blood disorders, diabetes, kidney, liver, or endocrine disorders, weakened immune systems due to diseases such as cancer, HIV or AIDS, or medications such as chronic steroid use or long-term aspirin use in people younger than 19 years of age.
      To obtain a flu shot at the Mahoning County District Board of Health clinic, 50 Westchester Dr., Youngstown, Ohio 44515.
      Just walk in, no appointment is necessary. Bring insurance cards, driver’s license, Medicaid and Medicare cards so the cost of the vaccine can be billed; most private insurances are accepted. With proof of insurance the flu vaccine is free.
      The Mahoning County District Board of Health is a Vaccines for Children Program Provider and will have limited opportunities for children that are uninsured to receive the vaccine free of charge.
      Available flu vaccines for ages 6 months and up Quadrivalent (4 flu virus strains) and ages 65 years and older High dose trivalent (3 flu virus strains) will be available at the following locations:
       Tues/Oct 16: 2:00PM-5:00PM, Poland Township Administration Building, 3339 Dobbins Rd, Poland, Ohio 44514
       Wed/Oct 17: 1:00PM-5:00PM, Struthers Mauthe Park, 156 Smithfield St., Struthers, Ohio 44471
       Thurs/Oct 18: 11:00AM-3:00 PM, Boardman Township Building, 8299 Market St., Boardman, Ohio 44512.
  Ohio Report Card Rates Boardman Local School District No Better Than Average  
  October 4, 2018 Edition  
     According to the Ohio Department of Education, Ohio School Report Cards are designed to give parents, communities, educators and policymakers information about the performance of districts and schools. The goal is to ensure equitable outcomes and high expectations for all of Ohio’s students. (Editor’s Note: Can ‘equitable outcomes’ be equated with teaching at minimum levels,?) Below is the 2018 report card for the Boardman Local School District.
      2018 Ohio School Report Card
      Boardman Local School District
      Total Enrollment: 4,112
      Includes 633 students with disabilities, and
      1,766 students deemed economically disadvantaged
      District Grade..........................................C
      Achievement on state tests.....................C
      Progress compared to past performances.........D
      Gap closing (meeting expectations for vulnerable students in English language arts, math, graduation and English language proficiency....A
      Graduate rate (95 per cent)....................A
      Improving At Risk K-3 Readers..................C
      Prepared for Success...........................D
      High School
      Cindy Fernback, Principal
      Overall Grade..........................................C
      Achievement....................................C
      Progress.......................................D
      Gap Closing....................................D
      Prepared for Success...........................D
      Glenwood Junior High School
      Bart T. Smith, Principal
      Overall Grade..........................................C
      Achievement....................................C
      Progress.......................................D
      Gap Closing....................................B
      Center Intermediate
      Randall S. Ebie, Principal
      Overall Grade..................................C
      Achievement....................................C
      Progress.......................................D
      Gap Closing....................................A
      Market St. Elementary
      Billie Jo Johnson, Principal
      Overall Grade..................................B
      Achievement....................................C
      Progress.......................................B
      Gap Closing....................................A
      Robinwood Lane Elementary
      Donald E. Robinson, Principal
      Overall Grade..........................................B
      Achievement....................................B
      Progress.......................................C
      Gap Closing....................................A
      Stadium Dr. Elementary
      Michael V. Zoccali, Principal
      Overall Grade..................................B
      Achievement....................................A
      Progress.......................................C
      Gap Closing....................................A
      West Blvd. Elementary
      Alphonse A. Cervello, Principal
      Overall Grade..................................B
      Achievement....................................A
      Progress.......................................C
      Gap Closing....................................A
      SOURCE: Ohio Department of Education
      Salary Comparisons
      Classroom teachers average salary........$56,189
       State average teachers salary.........$61,158
      Administrators average salary..........$68,135
       State average administrators salary.....$81,874
      SOURCE: FY 2017 Cupp Report
      Stadium Dr. Elementary School
      Blue Ribbon National Award Winner
       The school is the only school in Mahoning County, and one of just 349 schools nationwide, to receive the recognition from the United States Department of Education.
     
  Dana Concert Oct. 10  
  October 4, 2018 Edition  
     The Dana School of Music announces the opening concert of the Dana Symphony Orchestra on Wed., Oct. 10 at 7:30 p.m. at Powers Auditorium, 260 West Federal Street, Youngstown, Oh..
      Led by conductor Stephen L. Gage, the orchestra, which numbers close to 60, will begin with Leonard Bernstein’s popular Overture to Candide in celebration of Bernstein’s 100th birthday.
      Candide was first seen in a pre-Broadway tryout at Boston’s Colonial Theatre on October 29, 1956 (just days after Bernstein’s appointment as co-music director of the New York Philharmonic had been announced for the following season), and the show opened at the Martin Beck Theatre in New York on December 1.
      The concert will continue with Peter Tchaikovsky’s epic and fateful Symphony No. 5 in E Minor. About the work, Paul Serotsky, MusicWeb contributor wrote: During 1877 to 1890, under the patronage of the wealthy widow Nadezhda von Meck, Tchaikovsky was free to devote himself entirely to composition. Financially secure, he nevertheless found himself on the horns of an artistic dilemma. Fatalistic and highly-strung, Tchaikovsky naturally inclined to the Romantic ideology of expressing the artist’s inner turmoil. Sadly, the immediate reaction to the four-movement Symphony No.5 was, at best, muted. Tchaikovsky felt incredibly dejected, even going so far as to distance himself from it for quite some time. After his death, however, the work grew in popularity, with audiences and critics alike acknowledging Tchaikovsky’s great skill as an orchestrator and his powerful evocation of the idea of fate throughout the symphony. Today, it stands as one of his most loved large-scale creations.
      Tickets are $7 for adults; $6 for students and senior citizens, and free for anyone with a valid YSU ID, and may be ordered by phone at 330-744-0264, at the DeYor Performing Arts Center Box Office or at deyorpac.org
      In 2018-19, the Dana School of Music will celebrate 150 years as one of the region’s finest cultural institutions. William Henry Dana’s visionary “Musical Institute” has produced generations of professional musicians who perform in prestigious orchestras, military and jazz bands, and contemporary ensembles; teach in elite conservatories; and develop future musicians in primary and secondary schools throughout the United States.
      Parking is available in lots adjacent to the DeYor Performing Arts Center. More information is available by calling the Office of Community Engagement and Events at 330-941-2307.
  New DNA Testing Being Used In Effort To Develop Leads Into 1972 Murder Case  
  The Body Of 12-Year-Old Bradley Bellino Was Found In A Dumpster Behind The Boardman Plaza :   September 27, 2018 Edition  
     BY JOHN A. DARNELL JR.
      associate editor/bnews@zoominternet.net
     
      More than 46 years ago, 12-year-old Bradley Bellino, of 61 McClurg Rd., left home at noon, apparently walking to the home of a friend, Donald Templenon, 733 Teakwood Dr., in Applewood Acres.
      A criminal complaint obtained by The Boardman News says about 7:30 p.m. on Mar. 31, the boy failed to return home.
      The following day, Debbie Bellino notified police about 3:20 p.m. that Bradley was missing.
      Three days later, at 8:02 a.m. on Apr. 4, employees of Varie Bros. Trash Co. called police saying they found a body in a dumpster behind the Boardman Plaza.
      Ptl. Glenn Bowers answered the call and the body was identified as the Bellino boy.
      A belt (from JCPenney) was found strapped around his neck. The strap bore teeth marks, and body fluid, not Bellino’s, was later discovered on the boy’s pants.
      On Apr. 12, 1972, then Mahoning County Coroner Dr. David Belinky ruled Bradley Bellino’s death was the result of strangulation. Dr. Belinky said the interval between the onset of death and actual death was “sudden.”
      A death certificate certified by Dr. Belinsky said Bellino died on Apr. 1, 1972 about 9:00 p.m., little more than 24 hours after he was reported missing.
      46 years later, the Boardman Police Department is using new forms of DNA testing in the hopes of developing new leads in the case.
      “The Ohio Bureau of Criminal Identification (BCI) has already completed some tests, and we have sent samples to a laboratory in Virgina for additional testing,” Police Chief Todd Werth said this week.
      Testing done by BCI measured results against upwards of 700,000 DNA samples in a data base in Ohio, as well as against millions of DNA samples in a federal data base.
      “We are now looking at familial DNA to see if we can develop a new lead in the case,” Werth said.
      For years the Bellino case stood dormant, until 2001, when the Boardman Police Department revisited the case and could not develop any new leads.
      Sources suggest a list of at least 20 possible suspects was developed.
      “Only four or five of those people seem to stand out,” Capt. Albert Kakascik told The Boardman News this week.
      One man who has reportedly been eliminated from the suspect list in the Bellino case is now said to be living in South Carolina. According to court records, that man was indicted by a Mahoning County Grand Jury in July, 1971, for the rape of a Boardman boy named Frank Whitehouse.
      Former BPD Det. Robert Rupp said this week he was stunned when the indictment was dismissed in Feb., 1973 by then Mahoning County Common Pleas Judge Clyde Osborne.
      “Our police chief, Dave Hartsock, made a deal with the man’s attorney, that if his client passed a polygraph test, the indictment would be dismissed,” Rupp said.
      The polygraph test was conducted by Charlie Brunswick of the Youngstown Police Department, according to Rupp and former officer Bowers. But its results were disputed by another YPD officer, Duke Wellington.
      Another source said the polygraph had been arranged by the suspect’s defense attorney, who is now deceased.
      “Totally unethical,” The Boardman News was told.
  Boardman Park Has Been Funded By 1-Mill Since 1947  
  September 27, 2018 Edition  
     A year after being established in 1947, Boardman Township Park received its first tax levy of 1-mill, which was approved in 1948. Today, 70 years later, Boardman Park continues to operate, preserve and improve the Green Oasis on the equivalent of a 1-mill levy.
      Currently, the Boardman Park has two (2) voted levies three-tenths mills and six-tenths mills) and one non-voted levy of one-tenth of a mill.
      These subsequent levies generate approximately $871,028, which represents 65 per cent of the park’s annual income.
      In order to provide this tax revenue, the owner of a $100,000 home contributes approximately $30 per year, or 8-cents per day to support the park, whose mission is “To provide a diversity of recreational and educational opportunities in an environment that lends itself to pleasant family experiences, and to preserve areas of natural habitat.”
      Boardman Park has been a long-time member of the Ohio Parks and Recreation Association (OPRA), which has over 2,000 members. Believing that there is no other public park in the Ohio that has operated longer on essentially the same tax millage as Boardman Park, the park’s staff inquired to the OPRA if there is any other park that has operated on the same tax millage for 70 years.
      The OPRA responded: “OPRA is not aware of any park or park district in Ohio that has been operating at the same millage rate for 70 years.”
      “This response from the OPRA confirms our long-time belief that Boardman Park is the only park in Ohio, that has operated on the same tax millage for 70 years,” Executive Director Daniel Slagle Jr. said.
      “However, and most importantly, while operating on the equivalent of a 1-mill levy, Boardman Park has consistently increased its capacity to better serve the recreational needs the community through initiatives ranging from land acquisitions and implementing a broad and diverse range of programs and making significant improvements to its facilities,” he added.
      For example, the size of Boardman Park has more than tripled since 1947, currently providing 60 acres for active recreational purposes and preserving 183 acres as undisturbed natural habitat. The park is not only a sanctuary for numerous species of plants and animals, but also is a recreational haven for the community it serves, a place where families gather to enjoy one of our community’s greatest treasures, the Green Oasis.
      “At the Green Oasis our purpose is to create wholesome opportunities to live and interact with family, friends and neighbors, which are opportunities for living, learning, and leading full and productive lives as well as avenues for people to experience purpose, pleasure, health and well-being,” Slagle said.
      Over the years, 23 major capital projects have been completed creating a unique and diverse footprint of facilities and programs.
      The total cost of these projects, totaling over $6 million, were largely funded through government grants coupled with the private donations of time, materials and money. Approximately 80 per cent of the funding for these improvements has been generated by grant monies and donations, with the balance of the money coming from the park’s budget.
      “Because of the generosity of our community, Boardman Park has been able to evolve our Green Oasis into one of the most unique and popular recreational facilities in the Mahoning Valley. Annually, over 500,000, people enjoy the facilities and programs. Certainly, without the generous support of the community and our success in securing grants, the successful implementation of the park’s capital projects would not have been realized if solely dependent on our limited budget,” Slagle said.
  Akron Children’s Hospital Miracles & Promises Radiothon Sept. 27-28  
  September 13, 2018 Edition  
     The 10th Annual Miracles & Promises Radiothon to benefit Akron Children’s Hospital Mahoning Valley, will be broadcast live from the Beeghly campus in Boardman, Thurs., Sept. 27 & Fri., Sept. 28, from 6:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. each day, on mix 98.9 and 570 WKBN. The event is also a celebration of the 10 year anniversary of the Beeghly campus in Boardman.
      The Radiothon not only helps raise funds for the hospital, but it also helps create awareness of the services ACH MV offers and the families which they help.
      During the live broadcast you will hear remarkable stories of hope and healing from patients and families. You’ll also learn about local programs and services, and the many ways Akron Children’s makes a difference in the Valley.
      Last year our community helped us raise a record-breaking $319,304 for local programs and services. A Miracle Maker gift of as little as $15 a month (just 50 cents a day), or a one-time gift of any amount, will help the hospital continue to do the good work of saving lives and improving the health of children. Every dollar raised will stay here to help children and families in the Mahoning Valley.
      Your donation will make more of an impact than ever. Akron Children’s promises to turn no child away for any reason. With increasing medical costs, charity care, and the growing need for new services and equipment, every gift matters. By supporting the Miracles & Promises Radiothon, you’ll provide world-class medical care to thousands of children in our community, perhaps your own child, grandchild, neighbor or friend.
      To make a one time donation or a pledge call 330-746-9122 at any time or call the phone bank during the Radiothon at 1-888-746-9890. Donations can also be made online at akronchildrens.org/giving.
  School Board Approves Transfers, Appoints New Assistant Treasurer  
  September 6, 2018 Edition  
      The Boardman Board of Education acted upon a variety of personnel items at its August meeting, held just prior to the start of the 2018-19 year. The board’s regularly-scheduled monthly meeting was held Mon., Aug. 27, and was preceded by a special meeting held Sat., Aug. 25.
      Topics covered during the special meeting included discussion on the Electronic Classroom of Tomorrow, facilities and financial planning, and employee accountability and expectations.
      At its regular, monthly meeting, the school board approved six transfers of members of the system’s certificated staff. The were:
       •Mark Brooks was transferred from Center Intermediate School In-School Reassignment Teacher to Glenwood Junior High School Social Studies Teacher for the 2018-2019 school year. Brooks replaced Brad Calhoun.
       •Brad Calhoun was transferred from Glenwood Junior High School Social Studies Teacher to Center Intermediate School In-School Reassignment Teacher for the 2018-2019 school year. Calhoun is replaced Mark Brooks.
       •Nicholas Colla was transferred from Glenwood Junior High School English Teacher to Glenwood Junior High School In-School Reassignment Teacher for the 2018-2019 school year.
       •Katie Cretella was reassigned from Center Intermediate School Librarian to Center Intermediate School EL Teacher for the 2018-2019 school year. The move is due to increased enrollment in the EL program.
       •Stacy Doepker was transferred from Intervention Specialist at Boardman Center Intermediate School to an Intervention Specialist at Boardman Center Intermediate School’s ED Unit for the 2018/2019 school year. Doepker replaced an MCESC Intervention Specialist who was reassigned to a different program.
       •Erin O’Shaughnessy was transferred from Robinwood Lane Elementary School Intervention Specialist to Center Intermediate School Intervention Specialist for the 2018-2019 school year. O’Shaughnessy replaced Robin Stahura.
       •Robin Stahura was transferred from Center Intermediate School Intervention Specialist to Robinwood Elementary School Intervention Specialist for the 2018-2019 school year. Stahura is replaced Erin O’Shaughnessy.
      The board approved the appointment of Michele Orahood as Assistant Treasurer from Aug. 13, 2018, through June 30, 2021. Ms. Orahood is replacing Julie Sloan, who quit the job a week after she was hired. Orahood’s annual salary is $49,744.
      The school approved the addition of seven, certified staff members. They are:
       •Katie Becherer was granted a one-year limited contract as an Intervention Specialist at West Boulevard Elementary School. Ms. Becherer is replacing her previous position as a COG employee. Her annual salary is $35,714.
       •Katie Clones was granted a one-year limited contract as an EL Teacher at Glenwood Junior High School. This is a new position due to increased enrollment in the EL program. Her annual salary is $33,852.
       •Kelsey Demyen was hired as an intern psychologist. She earned her master’s degree from Youngstown State University and will be paid $23,900, that will be reimbursed to the district by the Ohio Department of Education.
       •Marta Evans was granted a one-year limited contract as an Intervention Specialist at Center Intermediate School, replacing Stacy Doepker. Her annual salary will be $47,901.
       •Nikki Lang was granted a one-year limited contract as an English Teacher at Glenwood Junior High School, replacing Nicholas Colla. Her annual salary will be $37,576.
       •Morgan Pallo was hired as an intern psychologist. She earned her master’s degree from Kent State University and will be paid $23,900, that will be reimbursed to the district by the Ohio Department of Education.
       •Kyle Sheehan was granted a one-year limited contract as a Social Studies Teacher at Boardman High School. Mr. Sheehan is replacing Brian Racz. His annual salary will be $47,901.
      The school board approved 11 on-staff supplemental contracts. They included:
       •Maddalena Amero, mentor for Katelyn Kridler, $1354;
       •Vince Carnevale, mentor for Mark Brooks, $1354;
       •Karen Cordova, mentor for Alexis Paden, $1354;
       •Jamie Dagget, mentor for Erin O’Shaughnessy, $677;
       •Michael Gerthung, mentor for Julia Clemente, $1354;
       •Jill Jones, mentor for Jennifer Herold, $677;
       •Robert Pavalko, mentor for Alyssa Titi, $1354;
       •Chuck Schiffhauer, Glenwood Junior High School athletic director, $8124;
       •Eric Simione, mentor for Kyle Sheehan, $677;
       •Julie Sturgiss - High School Social Studies Department Chairperson, $4734; and
       •Lori Szoke, mentor for Kate Sears, $677.
  Southwoods Sleep Center Receives Five-Year Accreditation  
  September 6, 2018 Edition  
      Southwoods Sleep Centers in Boardman announces it has received program accreditation from the American Academy of Sleep Medicine (AASM).
      To receive the five-year accreditation, a sleep center must meet or exceed the AASM’s professional health care standards in core areas, including personnel, facility and equipment, policies and procedures, data acquisition, patient care, and quality assurance. The sleep center’s goals must be clearly stated and include plans for positively affecting the quality of medical care in its community.
      “The American Academy of Sleep Medicine congratulates Southwoods Sleep Centers on meeting the high standards required to earn accreditation as sleep disorders centers,” said Dr. Douglas Kirsch, AASM president. “Southwoods Sleep Centers are an important resource to the local medical community and provide academic and scientific value in addition to the highest quality care for patients suffering from sleep disorders.”
      The AASM has accredited sleep disorders centers since 1977. There are more than 2,600 AASM-accredited sleep centers in America. “With millions of Americans suffering from some type of sleep disorder, health experts are spending more time studying the link between sleep and chronic medical conditions such as obesity, diabetes and cardiovascular disease. I’m very proud of our team at the Sleep Centers who are helping diagnose and treat these conditions,” said Ed Muransky, CEO of Southwoods Health. “This accreditation is a direct result of their commitment and dedication to providing quality and compassionate care to our patients.”
  Niche.com Rates Boardman Schools #1 In The Mahoning Valley  
  September 6, 2018 Edition  
      Niche.com, a national, data based ranking and review site ranks Boardman Local Schools as “number 1” in the Mahoning Valley.
      The 2019 Best School Districts ranking is based on an analysis of key statistics and reviews from students and parents using data from the U.S. Department of Education. Ranking factors include state test scores, college readiness, graduation rates, SAT/ACT scores, teacher quality, public school district ratings and more.
      Other ratings by Niche about Boardman Local Schools include:
      •Best School Districts for Athletes in Mahoning County, #1 of 14 districts.
      •Most Diverse School Districts in Mahoning County, #2 of 14 districts.
      •Best Places to Teach in Mahoning County, #3 of 14 districts/
      •Districts with the Best Teachers in Mahoning County, #3 of 13 districts.
      •Safest School Districts in Mahoning County, #5 of 13 districts.
      When Boardman is compared to the ‘Youngstown Area’ by Niche, the following ratings are listed:
      •Best School Districts in Youngstown Area, #1 of 47 districts.
      •Best School Districts for Athletes in Youngstown Area, #4 of 47 districts.
      •Districts with the Best Teachers in Youngstown Area, #4 of 46 districts.
      •Best Places to Teach in Youngstown Area, #6 of 47 districts.
      •Most Diverse School Districts in Youngstown Area, #6 of 47 districts.
      •Safest School Districts in Youngstown Area, #11 of 46 districts.
      Niches says the student-teacher ratio in the Boardman Local Schools is 17-1, and the average teacher’s salary is $55,957.
  Massachusetts Man Named In Warrant In Child Predator Probe  
  August 30, 2018 Edition  
     According to Mahoning County Court records, a warrant has been issued for the arrest of a 37-year-old Springfield, Massachusetts man, identified as Kenneth O. Reese, of 41 Craig Dr. The warrants charge Reese with unlawful sexual conduct with a minor, importuning and criminal child enticement and were issued after 42-year-old West Blvd. woman told police her juvenile son had been speaking on-line through an application called Twitch with a 38-year-old man who claimed to be a homosexual.
      The juvenile boy and the man apparently met on Jan. 1 on Twitch, according to police.
      According to Ptl. Brian Moss, “[The man] soon began telling [the boy] that he is a homosexual and likes little boys. The boy said he is not homosexual, and the man replied that was okay, he still wanted to be the boy’s friend on Twitch.”
      Then man offered-up a sob story that his parents were deceased and if the little boy unfriended him he would commit suicide, Officer Moss said, adding “[The boy] state that was the only reason he continued to talk to the [man] on Twitch.”
      According to police, sometime in June the two exchanged phone numbers and began texting each other on a daily basis, Officer Moss was told, noting the man said he would treat the little boy “like a prince” and wanted to come and meet him, that he should not tell his parents about the meeting, and adding he wanted to hold the boy’s hand and hug him.
      According to Officer Moss, the two (boy and man) arranged for the man to come to Boardman and meet at an exchange store, or in Mill Creek Park.
      Additionally, the man suggested the boy should have more freedom and should start riding his bike ‘further away’ so that he could meet him away from his house, adding he would be staying at the Red Roof Inn or Days Inn and the boy should come to his room.
      Note: The boys mother took his cell phone away, and also said she would not let her son on Twitch anymore.
  New Van For The Inn at Walker Mill  
  August 9, 2018 Edition  
      Ed Reese, chief executive officer of EDM Management, brought the pictured new van to the The Inn at Walker Mill, formerly the Commons at Greenbriar recently as part of an effort to insure residents of the senior care facility have transportation for small group outings, doctor’s appointments, etc. On this day in particular, the activity department organized a raffle for residents to draw for the first ride in the van. “We like to have the residents participate in a variety of activities, day-to-day, to keep them engaged and excited,” said Reese. He and his wife, Diane, who serves as president of EDM, are very hands so you’ll often find them visiting one of their locations and getting to know the residents personally. EDM Management’s senior care facilities include over 500 skilled care and residential beds and more than 500 employees. The company operates Briarfield Manor and Briarfield at Ashley Circle, both in Austintown; The Inn at Christine Valley in Youngstown; The Inn at Glenellen and The Villas at Glenellen in North Lima; The Inn at Poland Way Manor in Poland; The Inn at Ironwood in Canfield; in addition to the Inn at Walker Mill in Boardman. The Inn at Christine Valley includes a dedicated memory care unit. A wide range of special services are provided at EDM Management facilities. For example, The Inn at Poland Way includes a spa and concierge services, fine dining, a theater room and an enclosed courtyard with a fireplace and putting green, as does The Inn at Ironwood. Briarfield at Ashley Circle provides wound care, IV therapy and medication management. Ed and Diane Reese are pioneers in providing quality senior care in the Mahoning Valley for close to 30 years.
  Presidential Timber?  
  OPINION:   August 2, 2018 Edition  
     It was back in Dec., 2017 that U.S. Rep. Tim Ryan (D) told a Dayton Daily News journalist he didn’t know if he would run for president. Ryan represents the 13th congressional district in Ohio, pocked with high unemployment and ‘rusty’ cities, like Youngstown. His district also includes Boardman Township.
      Ryan has served in Congress since 2003, where he holds no committee leadership positions and is ranked as the third most liberal congressman of the 16 member Ohio delegation.
      If Tim Ryan is presidential timber, consider these snapshots of his record.
      According to the Center for Responsive Politics---
       •Ryan introduced 22 bills and resolutions in 2017. Most of any legislator in the 16-member Ohio Delegation of the U.S. House of Representatives.
       •Ryan introduced zero bills in 2017 that got past committee and to the floor for consideration. One bill or resolution did have a co-chair who was a ranking member of a committee that the bill was referred to. That bill, the Hot Cars Act, would require the Transportation Department to mandate all new motor vehicles have a child alert system. It failed to get out of committee. [Getting support from committee members on relevant committees is a crucial step in moving legislation forward].
       •Ryan was third most-absent member of the House in missing votes, missing 9.2 per cent of votes in 2017 (65 out of 710 votes). Compare that with Rep. Bill Johnson, who is ranked 10th on the list, missing 1.3 per cent of votes. From Jan., 2003 to July, 2018, Ryan missed 436 of 11,190 roll call votes, which is 3.9%. This is worse than the median of 2.4% among the lifetime records of representatives currently serving.
       •As of June 30, 2018, Ryan’s campaign committee fund raising totals $1.279 million, of which $1.03 million has been spent, leaving some $415,900 on hand.
       •Among his top contributors are transportation unions, $58,500; special trade contractors, $48,170; and public sector unions, $48,000; and Simon Roofing, $21,800. Lawyers/law firms have contributed $85,485; real estate-related concerns have contributed $80,291.
       •All totaled 53.31 per cent, or $683,141 of Ryan’s total contributions come from large, individual contributions; and 39.82 per cent, or $510,203 come from PACs. Smaller contributions, $200 of less, total $88,009, or 6.97 per cent of all sources of campaign funds.
       •In 2010, Ryan sponsored, or cosponsored 39 earmarks totaling $35.4 million, ranking him 111th out of 435 representatives.
       •According to financial disclosure report filed with Legislative Resource Center in Washington, D.C., Ryan accepted a ticket in 2015 to the Michigan-OSU football game, and private plane travel from Sam Covelli valued at $1,500.
      Locally, Rep Ryan might best be remembered in 2017 for his failed efforts to prevent an illegal alien from being deported.
      As The Dayton Daily News journalist observed, “Ryan has served in Congress since 2003, when he replaced his former boss, the bombastic and legally troubled Rep. Jim Traficant.
      “Once thought to be a bright young light in the party, Ryan has turned into something else: A veteran politician.”
      Presidential timber?
  LEGAL NOTICE  
  August 2, 2018 Edition  
     Boardman Township
      Civil Service Commission
      Full-Time Entry Level Fire Fighter
      Boardman, OH - $30,800.00 Annual Salary
      The complete job announcement and application with available bonus points can be viewed on the Boardman Township website on August 1, 2018: www.boardmantwp.com/administration/civil-service.
      Applications will be available electronically via the Boardman Township Website www.boardmantwp.com or by email request to boardmancivilservice@gmail.com, from August 1, 2018 through October 12, 2018. For questions, please call (330)726-4177 x 61701 during normal business hours or (330)540-8204 after 4pm, except Holidays.
      Completed applications will be accepted beginning October 1, 2018 from 9-12pm and 2-4pm Monday- Friday until October 12, 2018, except weekends & holidays. The Boardman Civil Service Office is located at the Boardman Township Fire Department, 7440 Market Street, Boardman, Ohio. Due to the new office layout - sign-in where noted and wait until your name is called.
      If you encounter an unforeseeable scheduling conflict, please contact (330) 540-8204 for further assistance.
      A certificate of completion issued by the Cuyahoga Community College will be required, at the applicant’s expense (see attachment in packet). Certifications dated within two (2) years of the written exam date will be accepted. Test dates are August 12, September 16, and October 21, 2018.
      The written examination will be administered on October 23, 2018 in the cafeteria of the Boardman Senior High School located at 7777 Glenwood Avenue, Boardman, Ohio, beginning at 6:00 PM and ending at approximately 8:00 PM.
      An Equal Opportunity Employer
  Trustees Approve Zone Change For $20 Million Meijer Supercenter  
  At Rt. 224 And Lockwood Blvd.:   July 26, 2018 Edition  
     Boardman Township Trustees overrode the recommendation of their zoning commission and voted unanimously on Monday to approve a zone changes that will allow construction of a Meijer supercenter at the intersection of Lockwood Blvd. and Rt. 224.
      On May 22, the zoning commission voted 4-1 to reject the proposed project, while the Mahoning County Planning Commission voted unanimously to approve the project.
      About 45 persons attended Monday’s hearing on the matter, and only a handful of residents voiced concerns about the proposal.
      Meijer needed a zone change on about 4-plus acres of land to allow traffic onto the proposed site of the project off Lockwood Blvd.
      Chris Jones, real estate manager for Meijer, said the company plans to build a 159,000 sq-ft super center, investing upwards of $20 million in the project. Once completed, the Meijer store would employ about 250 people, Jones said. The proposed store will be located on a 39-acre site, only 17 acres of which will be developed.
      Al Bogna, vice-president of Carnegie Management, said that Meijer has been working on the Boardman location since Jan., 2017 and said 22 acres of land at the site will be donated to Boardman Township through a conservancy easement.
      “We will not clear the entire piece of land,” Bogna said.
      Jones said development of the site will leave at least an 800-ft. buffer between the development and residential areas.
      “The conservancy easement is bound by a 62-page agreement that does not allow commercial development,” Bogna said, adding “Going forward, in perpetuity, the [easement] will be passed on to Boardman Township, nothing can be built in that area.”
      The site of the proposed development has been owned by Mercy Health and Trustees were told the site does not fit into the future plans of the health care company.
      John Burgan, local Realtor who was the lone member of the zoning commission to voice approval of the project, said he learned there are several options on the property and the Meijer proposal “is the best option.”
      Meijer officials disputed claims that development of the site would cause traffic problems.
      “With the recent loss of Toys-R-Us, hhgregg and Sears, traffic will decrease,” Bogna claimed.
      He addressed drainage concerns saying the project will include construction of two surface storm water ponds, “and perhaps some underground system.”
      Among the handful of persons expressing opposition to the project was Rick Detwiler, who said he resides in nearby Oakwood Village, a condominium development.
      “Meijer is a good company, but this is not a good spot for you,” Detwiler said, expressing concerns over truck traffic and drainage issues.
      Boardman Road Superintendent Marilyn Kenner responded that “Trucks won’t be on Lockwood Blvd.”
      About Meijer
      Meijer is a multi-billion dollar retailer, the nation’s 19th largest privately held company with more than 65,000 employees across six states. It has corporate offices in Grand Rapids, Michigan, plus manufacturing facilities, distribution centers and over 200 stores across Michigan, Illinois, Indiana, Kentucky, Ohio and Wisconsin.
      As the pioneer of the ‘one-stop shopping’ concept, Meijer provides customers with low prices, quality foods and a broad selection of national and Meijer brand items.
      Meijer first opened during the Great Depression when Hendrik Meijer, and his 14-year-old son, Fred, fulfilled a need in the community. With a focus on customer experience and respect for employees, they evolved a small grocery store into a one-stop shopping experience, the nation’s first supercenter.
      Today, brothers and co-chairmen Hank Meijer and Doug Meijer lead the privately-held company, along with a handful of experienced business leaders, including Co-CEO and Vice Chairman Mark Murray and President Rick Keyes.
      Construction of the Meijer project will not get underway for at least a year. Prior to construction, the company must go before the Boardman Township Site Plan Review Committee for a hearing on required green space and landscaping.
      Trustee Thomas Costello suggested at Monday’s hearing the company ‘mound’ property lines to enhance the border of the proposed site with residential areas.
     
  LEGAL NOTICE  
  July 12, 2018 Edition  
     The Board of Trustees of Boardman Township shall conduct a Public Hearing on the following amendment to the Boardman Township Zoning Resolution and Township Zoning Map on Monday, July 23, 2018 at 5:15 PM, at the Boardman Township Government Center, 8299 Market Street, Boardman, Ohio 44512. Text and maps of the request may be viewed at the Boardman Township Zoning Office, 8299 Market Street, Boardman, Ohio 44512 Monday through Friday, between the hours of 8:00 AM and 4:00 PM, until time of hearing.
      This is the final hearing in determination of this case. The Board shall act either immediately or within twenty (20) days of the hearing date.
      AMENDMENT A-2018-12
      Richard j. Pichola, 27500 Detroit Rd. #300, Westlake, OH 44145, on behalf of HUMILITY OF MARY HEALTH PARTNERS, property owner, requests a zone change for BOARDMAN CANFIELD RD, Boardman, Ohio 44512, from the terms of the Boardman Township Zoning Resolution, effective May 29, 2012, in order to extend the Commercial portion of the property to perform commercial activities on a larger portion of the property. The property is further known as GL 18 DIV 3, Parcel 32-090-0-021.00-0. Said property is currently zoned Commercial and R-1 Residential located in Boardman Township, Mahoning County, State of Ohio.
      Brad Calhoun, Chairman
      Board of Trustees, Boardman Township
      Krista Beniston, AICP
      Director of Zoning and Development
  LEGAL NOTICE  
  July 12, 2018 Edition  
     The Boardman Township Zoning Commission will conduct a Public Hearing on the following amendment to the Boardman Township Zoning Resolution and Township Zoning Map on Tuesday, July 24, 2018 at 5:30 PM, at the Boardman Township Government Center, 8299 Market Street, Boardman, Ohio 44512. Text and maps of the request may be viewed at the Boardman Township Zoning Office, 8299 Market Street, Boardman, Ohio 44512 Monday through Friday, between the hours of 8:00 AM and 4:00 PM, until time of hearing.
      Following the recommendation of the Zoning Commission, the proposed amendment will be referred to the Board of Trustees for final determination.
      AMENDMENT A-2018-15
      Pursuant to Article XVI, Section F, Part a, Number 1 of the Boardman Township Zoning Resolution, as amended through May 29, 2012, concerning the initiation of amendments to the Township Zoning Resolution, the Board of Trustees of Boardman Township find it necessary to initiate hearings to amend the Boardman Township Zoning Resolution and Township zoning Map to reclassify and rezone the following 106 parcels of real property from Residential R-2 Districts to Residential R-1 Districts:
      33 Parcels along Glenwood Avenue
      73 Parcels along Trenholm Road
      All properties are located in Boardman Township, Mahoning County, State of Ohio.
      Peter W. Lymber, Chairman
      Boardman Township Zoning Commission
      Krista Beniston, AICP
      Director of Zoning and Development
  LEGAL NOTICE  
  July 12, 2018 Edition  
     The Boardman Township Zoning Commission will conduct a Public Hearing on the following amendment to the Boardman Township Zoning Resolution and Township Zoning Map on Tuesday, July 24, 2018 at 5:30 PM, at the Boardman Township Government Center, 8299 Market Street, Boardman, Ohio 44512. Text and maps of the request may be viewed at the Boardman Township Zoning Office, 8299 Market Street, Boardman, Ohio 44512 Monday through Friday, between the hours of 8:00 AM and 4:00 PM, until time of hearing.
      Following the recommendation of the Zoning Commission, the proposed amendment will be referred to the Board of Trustees for final determination.
      AMENDMENT A-2018-14
      Pursuant to Article XVI, Section F, Part a, Number 1 of the Boardman Township Zoning Resolution, as amended through May 29, 2012, concerning the initiation of amendments to the Township Zoning Resolution, the Board of Trustees of Boardman Township find it necessary to initiate hearings to amend the Boardman Township Zoning Resolution and Township zoning Map to reclassify and rezone the following 104 parcels of real property from Residential R-2 Districts to Residential R-1 Districts:
      35 Parcels along Boardman Boulevard
      26 Parcels along Nevada Ave
      6 Parcels along Palestine Avenue
      17 Parcels on Scotland Avenue
      4 Parcels on Southern Boulevard
      10 Parcels on Stafford Avenue
      6 Parcels on Tod Avenue
      All properties are located in Boardman Township, Mahoning County, State of Ohio.
      Peter W. Lymber, Chairman
      Boardman Township Zoning Commission
      Krista Beniston, AICP
      Director of Zoning and Development
  LEGAL NOTICE  
  July 12, 2018 Edition  
     The Board of Trustees of Boardman Township shall conduct a Public Hearing on the following amendment to the Boardman Township Zoning Resolution and Township Zoning Map on Monday, July 23, 2018 at 5:15 PM, at the Boardman Township Government Center, 8299 Market Street, Boardman, Ohio 44512. Text and maps of the request may be viewed at the Boardman Township Zoning Office, 8299 Market Street, Boardman, Ohio 44512 Monday through Friday, between the hours of 8:00 AM and 4:00 PM, until time of hearing.
      This is the final hearing in determination of this case. The Board shall act either immediately or within twenty (20) days of the hearing date.
      AMENDMENT A-2018-13
      Pursuant to Article XVI, Section F, Part a, Number 1 of the Boardman Township Zoning Resolution, as amended through May 29, 2012, concerning the initiation of amendments to the Township Zoning Resolution, the Board of Trustees of Boardman Township find it necessary to initiate hearings to amend the Boardman Township Zoning Resolution and Township zoning Map to reclassify and rezone the following 317 parcels of real property from Residential R-2 Districts to Residential R-1 Districts:
      109 Parcels along Beech Avenue
      100 Parcels along Maple Avenue
      57 Parcels along Oak Avenue
      1 Parcel on South Avenue
      3 Parcels on Walnut Street
      47 Parcels on Wood Avenue
      All properties are located in Boardman Township, Mahoning County, State of Ohio.
      Brad Calhoun, Chairman
      Board of Trustees, Boardman Township
      Krista Beniston, AICP
      Director of Zoning and Development
     
  LANDLORDS MUST REGISTER THEIR RENTAL UNITS OR FACE PENALTIES  
  July 12, 2018 Edition  
     Landlord registration for anyone who rents residential properties has begun, directed by the Boardman Township Office of Planning and Zoning.
      The registration drive began July 1 and will continue to Feb., 2019.
      Properties that are not registered by the end Feb., 2019 will be subject to penalty fees, according to the Planning/Zoning Office.
      Krista Beniston, township director of planning and zoning, told Boardman Trustees on Monday some 3500 letters have been mailed to properties identified as possible rentals.
      The township’s Landlord Registration Program is intended to help combat absentee landlord issues, help protect the integrity of local neighborhoods and help to maintain property values.
      According to census figures, there are 5685 rental units in Boardman.
      “To date, we have 174 units registered,” Beniston said.
      Boardman’s Landlord Registration Program was undertaken after three court decisions.
      On June 30, 2015, a Mahoning County Court of Common Pleas upheld the township’s authority to implement the program, that includes maintenance standards.
      That decision was appealed to the Seventh District Court of Appeals, that affirmed the lower court’s decision on Mar. 29, 2017; and then that decision was appealed to the Ohio Supreme Court that declined to accept jurisdiction on the case on Dec. 6, 2017.
      According to the township’s planning/zoning office, the registration program will make landlords accountable for the condition of their property, and help to insure residential rentals will be provided safe, clean living conditions.
      The registration program gives landlords as well as tenants an opportunity to file complaints with the planning/zoning office.
      “Everyone who lives in Boardman Township has the right to expect safe, clean living conditions,” Beniston said.
      The registration program will mandate that Section 8 housing units be required to meet minimum standards of Boardman Township.
      Landlords who do not register with Boardman Township will face stiff fines.
      Following is a listing of standards required for rental units under the newly-implemented landlord registration program:
       •Exterior areas shall be free of any accumulation of refuse and debris.
       •Handrails shall be installed in accordance with the applicable building code in Mahoning County.
       •Windows shall not be cracked or broken or boarded and shall not admit moisture.
       •Exterior doors shall be free of holes and splits and shall be firmly secured with operable locking mechanism.
       •Exterior entryways shall be equipped with lighting.
       •Exterior steps shall be equipped with lighting.
       •Interior premises shall be free of any accumulation of refuse and debris.
       •Floors, ceilings, and walls shall be structurally sound and block water or dampness.
       •All electrical outlets and light switches shall have secured plate covers installed.
       •All interior steps shall be equipped with lighting.
       •Each bedroom shall have at least one (1) working window.
       •All toilets shall be in operable condition and connected to water and sewer lines. Any toilet that is removed must be sealed property to prevent rodents and/or sewer gasses from escaping into the unit.
       •All bathroom and kitchen sinks shall have working hot and cold water.
       •The rental unit shall have an operable heating system.
       •The rental unit shall have an operable electrical system with no exposed live parts.
       •Operable smoke detectors with live batteries shall be present on each floor of each individual unit.
       •Any common area washer or dryer units must be vented on the outside of the structure.
       •Multi-unit buildings must have a fire extinguisher on each floor’s common area.
       •Any basement level unit needs two acceptable means of egress.
  GRETTA KNOWS ....... Coming Home!  
  July 12, 2018 Edition  
Gretta & Miakoda
     Hi Paws to my dear friends! I have so missed connecting with you! I had to spread my dog-angel wings and go on a journey back to my earthly home to be with my sister Miakoda.
      There are times when a family member or friend may need our help. All of a sudden we are on a journey when our normal life and activities go by the wayside. Our total time commitment is given to care and help them, because of our sincere true love which we hold within our heart, mind and soul.
      It is so difficult to watch someone reach the point in their lives when they are unable to physically or mentally manuever as they once did. Miakoda was entering the last few months of her life and the only place I wanted to be, was with her, to give her comfort and strength.
      I remember the day in 2006 when Miakoda came home with my masters. She was this little brown, black and white sheepdog. I was her older sister and we became great pals, although there were moments, when she would grab onto to my tail with her puppy teeth, my fondness of this cute little puppy lessened briefly.
      Miakoda struggled her whole life. She had seizures at a young age and eventually took medication all her life to control them. She was full of non-stop energy. She loved to chase tennis balls, sticks, anything, all day long and all night long if she could. Mia never stopped pacing or moving until she collapsed at night to sleep.
      She had such a remarkable, kind and caring heart. When our master would cough or sneeze, she stopped whatever she was doing and ran over, placing her head on our master’s lap, until Mia knew she was ok.
      Last week Mia had the bestest dogday in a long time. She struggled, but she swam, she ran, she played all day with the big dogs. If dogs could smile, she wore the biggest dog-grin ever! During the night she had a stroke and was unable to walk in the morning! I never left her side. I tried to help her stand, I crawled along side her, as she tried to get to her master. I so wished us dog-angels could sprinkle some miracle dust to give you more time, but God was calling Mia home!
      I stayed alongside Mia on her journey to PawPrints Paradise. She’s Coming Home!
      When we arrived Mia stood overlooking heavens PawPrints Pathway, that would take her to her new heavenly home.
      As we both stood there, tears flowed through our eyes. I yelped to Mia that I had watched her master write this note. I barked.....
      ..... I miss Mia very much. Everytime I go for a walk with her brother Paco, I’m looking back for her to greet me, but she is not there. When I get a treat for Paco, I’m still saving half for Mia. When I go to bed at night, I’m still checking to be sure Mia is safe in the bedroom. I remember the long walks we took in the winter together. I miss Mia swimming in the lake with us. I miss Mia coming to me late at night, crawling on the couch so I would rub her chest. I can still feel her head on my lap. I so miss her running to me when I’d return home. Mia was always there, never left our sides, always making sure we were all right. I really miss that little dog, my only consolation being, I know she is happy now, up in PawPrints Paradise, alongside her sister Gretta. Always loving you.
      As we both look down and see the sadness and loneliness in our master’s eyes, Mia barks and barks, “Don’t feel sad for me, I am with Gretta now. We are reunited will always be side by side.
      This PawPrints Paradise is the most beautiful place I have ever seen. Sorry to bark that it even beats the Allegheny Forest where we went camping. As Gretta and I walk into this heavenly paradise, you wouldn’t believe the dogs here, all barking to greet me and welcome Gretta back. Gretta tells me to follow her up the meadow hill.
      The vivid green flowing grass, beautiful oak trees, and Aarf, Aarf, a creek, flowing to the rim with clear cold water... off I go, Gretta following along with all these new heavenly pals. Aarf, Aarf.. sticks, sticks, and more sticks to gather up and run with through the creek. I must be in heaven!! No more pills, no more pain, I can run, play, and sleep next to my fur-ever sister Gretta.
      I will never forget my masters, all the love, care, gentleness, and fun we had through the years. I will miss my little brother Paco, but I know he is in good hands. Don’t worry, I’ve got my angel wings now, so am officially a dog-angel. And never underestimate when a dog-angel will quietly be around. Thank you for giving me a wonderful life!
      And don’t worry, our tails are ‘awaggin!
  Music In The Park Opens With Guys Without Ties  
  June 14, 2018 Edition  
     Boardman Park’s 2018 Music in the Park Concert Series opens this week with free performances at the Maag Outdoor Arts Theater through Aug. 23. Featured will be local entertainment along with two military band concerts. All concerts, except for the Sat., June 30th 122nd Ohio Army Band and Mon., July 2. Air Force Band of Flight, will begin at 7:00 p.m.
      All concerts are free and open to the public thanks to the generous sponsorships of The DeBartolo Corporation, Pepsi, Phantom Fireworks, Aqua Ohio Inc., Boardman Subaru, Armstrong, HBK CPA’s & Consultants, Great Garage Doors, Menchie’s Frozen Yogurt and The American Federation of Musicians Local #86-242.
      Schedule of Concerts
       •June 14: Guys Without Ties
       •June 21: BHS Jazz Band
       •June 28: Root Theory
       •June 30: The 122nd Ohio Army Band, 6:30 p.m. (Family Night)
       •July 2: Air Force Band of Flight/Fireworks, 8:00 p.m. In case of rain the concert will be moved to Boardman High School’s Performing Arts Center.
       •July 5: Chardon Polka Band
       •July 12: Steve Fazzini
       •July 19: The Wrangler Band
       •July 26: Youngstown Area Community Concert Band
       •August 2: The Del Sinchak Band
       •August 9: Celebration, LLC
       •August 16: Full House, NEO
       •August 23: Glass City Swing Band
      For more information on this event or other Boardman Park events visit the web at www.boardmanpark.com or call the park office at 330-726-8105.
  LEGAL NOTICE  
  June 14, 2018 Edition  
     LEGAL NOTICE
      The Boardman Township Zoning Commission will conduct a Public Hearing on the following amendment to the Boardman Township Zoning Resolution and Township Zoning Map on Tuesday, June 26, 2018 at 5:30 PM, at the Boardman Township Government Center, 8299 Market Street, Boardman, Ohio 44512. Text and maps of the request may be viewed at the Boardman Township Zoning Office, 8299 Market Street, Boardman, Ohio 44512 Monday through Friday, between the hours of 8:00 AM and 4:00 PM, until time of hearing.
      Following the recommendation of the Zoning Commission, the proposed amendment will be referred to the Board of Trustees for final determination.
      AMENDMENT A-2018-13
      Pursuant to Article XVI, Section F, Part a, Number 1 of the Boardman Township Zoning Resolution, as amended through May 29, 2012, concerning the initiation of amendments to the Township Zoning Resolution, the Board of Trustees of Boardman Township find it necessary to initiate hearings to amend the Boardman Township Zoning Resolution and Township zoning Map to reclassify and rezone the following 317 parcels of real property from Residential R-2 Districts to Residential R-1 Districts:
      109 Parcels along Beech Avenue
      100 Parcels along Maple Avenue
      57 Parcels along Oak Avenue
      1 Parcel on South Avenue
      3 Parcels on Walnut Street
      47 Parcels on Wood Avenue
      All properties are located in Boardman Township, Mahoning County, State of Ohio.
      Peter W. Lymber, Chairman
      Boardman Township Zoning Commission
      Krista Beniston, AICP,
      Director of Zoning and Development
  NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING  
  June 14, 2018 Edition  
     NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING
      The Boardman Township Board of Appeals shall hold a Public Hearing on Tuesday, June 26, 2018 at 7:00 PM at the Boardman Township Government Center, 8299 Market Street, Boardman Township, Ohio 44512, for consideration of the following cases:
      APPEAL CASE AC-2018-15
      Frances Machugo, 64 Aylesboro Ave. Boardman, Ohio 44512, property owner, requests a variance for the terms of the Boardman Township Zoning Resolution, effective May 29, 2012, Article VII. Residence R-2 Districts L. Swimming pools in order to erect a pool 3 to 4 feet from the property line. The pool will meet the ten (10) required set back on all sides, but the eastern property line. The property is further known as LOT 264 50 X 150 BOARDMAN PARK ALT 3, Parcel 29-066-0-457.00-0. Said property is zoned Residential, in Boardman Township, Mahoning County, State of Ohio.
      APPEAL CASE AC-2018-16
      Mike Fagan on behalf of Joe Mozzy, 5955 Glenwood Ave. Boardman, Ohio 44512, property owner, requests a variance for the terms of the Boardman Township Zoning Resolution, effective May 29, 2012, Article V. Residence R-1 Districts Section B. Rear Yards in order to reduce the required (40) forty feet setback to (33) thirty feet. The property is further known as LOT 197 100 X 154 IRR REPL LTS 197&198 RIDGEWD, Parcel 29-064-0-012.00-0. Said property is zoned Residential, in Boardman Township, Mahoning County, State of Ohio.
      APPEAL CASE AC-2018-17
      Mane Health Realty LLC representative for C-Z Construction & Development Company, E. Western Reserve Rd. & Crossroads Drive, Boardman, Ohio 44512, property owner, requests a variance for the terms of the Boardman Township Zoning Resolution, effective May 29, 2012, Article VXI. Administration, I. Conditional Use Regulations in order to operate an ambulatory surgical facility. The property is further known as GL 31 DIV 4, Parcel 29-048-0-002.00-0. Said property is zoned Commercial and Industrial, in Boardman Township, Mahoning County, State of Ohio.
      APPEAL CASE AC-2018-18
      RonJon Investments, 7901 Market St., Boardman, Ohio 44512, property owner, requests a variance for the terms of the Boardman Township Zoning Resolution, effective May 29, 2012, Article VXI. Administration, I. Conditional Use Regulations in order to operate a car dealership and erect a secondary building on a single parcel. The property is further known as GL 12 DIV 3, Parcel 29-033-0-024.00-0. Said property is zoned Commercial, Industrial, and Residential in Boardman Township, Mahoning County, State of Ohio.
      APPEAL CASE AC-2018-19
      Henry Landgraff III, 42 Harrow Place, Boardman, Ohio 44512, property owner, requests a variance for the terms of the Boardman Township Zoning Resolution, effective May 29, 2012, Article V. Residence R-1 Districts Section D. Private Garages and other out-buildings in order to reduce the required (5) five foot setback to (3) three foot to build a garage. The property is further known as LOT 132 50 X 143 IRR HERRON HTS REPLAT 4, Parcel 29-074-0-204.00-0. Said property is zoned Residential, in Boardman Township, Mahoning County, State of Ohio.
      Text and maps of the request may be viewed at the Boardman Township Zoning Office, 8299 Market Street, Boardman, Ohio 44512 Monday through Friday, between the hours of 8:00 AM and 4:00 PM, until time of hearing.
      Atty. John F. Shultz, Chairman
      Boardman Township Board of Appeals
      Krista D. Beniston, AICP,
      Director of Zoning and Development
  LEGAL NOTICE  
  May 31, 2018 Edition  
     LEGAL NOTICE
      The Board of Trustees of Boardman Township shall conduct a Public Hearing on the following amendment to the Boardman Township Zoning Resolution and Township Zoning Map on Monday, June 11, 2018 at 5:15 PM, at the Boardman Township Government Center, 8299 Market Street, Boardman, Ohio 44512. Text and maps of the request may be viewed at the Boardman Township Zoning Office, 8299 Market Street, Boardman, Ohio 44512 Monday through Friday, between the hours of 8:00 AM and 4:00 PM, until time of hearing.
      This is the final hearing in determination of this case. The Board shall act either immediately or within twenty (20) days of the hearing date.
      AMENDMENT A-2018-12
      Richard J. Pichola, 27500 Detroit Rd. #300, Westlake, OH 44145, on behalf of HUMILITY OF MARY HEALTH PARTNERS, property owner, requests a zone change for BOARDMAN CANFIELD RD, Boardman, Ohio 44512, from the terms of the Boardman Township Zoning Resolution, effective May 29, 2012, in order to extend the Commercial portion of the property to perform commercial activities on a larger portion of the property. The property is further known as GL 18 DIV 3, Parcel 32-090-0-021.00-0. Said property is currently zoned Commercial and R-1 Residential located in Boardman Township, Mahoning County, State of Ohio.
      Brad Calhoun, Chairman
      Board of Trustees, Boardman Township
      Krista Beniston, AICP,
      Director of Zoning and Development
  God Bless America  
  May 31, 2018 Edition  
     THE ANNUAL EDWARD J. DeBARTOLO MEMORIAL SCHOLARSHIP DINNER was held Fri., May 25 at the Covelli Center in downtown Youngstown, Oh. The event raised more than $80,000 for the DeBartolo Memorial Scholarships that have been awarded annually for more than 20 years. To date, more than $1.2 million in scholarships have been awarded every spring to select high school seniors in need of financial assistance to continue their academic careers. Last weekend’s event featured great food, a variety of auctions, a concert by the Midtown Men, as well as appearance from several Niners players. Just prior to the concert, three of the celebrities in attendance led the singing of “God Bless America,” from left, Niners offensive lineman Joe Staley; Niners General Manager John Lynch, and former Pittsburgh Steelers great Franco Harris.
  OPEN LETTER FROM SUPERINTENDENT TIM SAXTON  
  Boardman Schools Look To The Next 100 Years Our Community Is Our Strength!:   May 24, 2018 Edition  
     As the Spartan Class of 2018 graduates on June 3, we will close our ‘100’ Year Anniversary Celebration in the Boardman School District. Our events to honor family, athletics, the arts and academics were extremely well attended and greatly enjoyed by all. Most importantly, these events showcased the incredible role that the Boardman School District has played in so many lives and in the very essence of our community itself. Indeed, Boardman is a nice place to call home--in fact, there is none better!
     
      While the anniversary year may be at its end, we will continue to celebrate
      excellence. Community and volunteer support helped pass a critical levy that will enable the district to continue its award winning programs and
      outstanding classroom instruction for at least the next decade. We cannot thank voters enough!
     
      With gratitude comes this sincere pledge. Our district has, and will continue to be transparent. The Board of Education and the Administration are determined to be good stewards of your tax dollars. We recognize that all Boardman
      taxpayers are making a sacrifice to support our quality schools. It is our goal to dialogue with state legislators and education leaders in Columbus to address the problems with state school funding, especially as it affects Boardman and other capped districts.
     
      We encourage all residents to be a part of our school activities: special academic events, athletic competitions, plays, musicals and concerts. As we venture
      forward, if you have questions or concerns about our school district please take the opportunity to call, email or schedule an appointment and remember; Boardman residents are always invited to share any concerns at our monthly school board meetings. Contact information and the latest school news can be found at our website: www.boardman.k12.oh.us
     
      Go Spartans!
     
  A Tradition!  
  May 17, 2018 Edition  
Stan Boney & Bianca Severino
     FOR THE 23rd YEAR IN A ROW, a feature of the Angels of Easter Seals spring fashion show featured a walk down the runway by local television newsman Stan Boney and Bianca Severino. The 40th annual event held at Mr. Anthony’s attracted some 600 persons. Boney served as master of ceremonies. Geri Kosar and Joan Zarlenga served as co-chairmen of the event.
  LEGAL NOTICE  
  May 17, 2018 Edition  
     The Board of Trustees of Boardman Township shall conduct a Public Hearing on the following amendment to the Boardman Township Zoning Resolution and Township Zoning Map on Tuesday, May 29, 2018 at 5:15 PM, at the Boardman Township Government Center, 8299 Market Street, Boardman, Ohio 44512. Text and maps of the request may be viewed at the Boardman Township Zoning Office, 8299 Market Street, Boardman, Ohio 44512 Monday through Friday, between the hours of 8:00 AM and 4:00 PM, until time of hearing.
      This is the final hearing in determination of this case. The Board shall act either immediately or within twenty (20) days of the hearing date.
      AMENDMENT A-2018-10
      Pursuant to Article XVI, Section F, Part a, Number 1 of the Boardman Township Zoning Resolution, as amended through May 29, 2012, concerning the initiation of amendments to the Township Zoning Resolution, the Board of Trustees of Boardman Township find it necessary to initiate hearings to amend the Boardman Township Zoning Resolution and Township zoning Map to reclassify and rezone the following 168 parcels of real property from Residential R-2 Districts to Residential R-1 Districts:
      35 Parcels along Amherst Avenue
      38 Parcels along Claybourne Avenue
      36 Parcels along Glendale Ave
      13 Parcels along Glenwood Avenue
      9 Parcels on Paxton Road
      18 Parcels along Rockdale Avenue
      19 Parcels along Vineland Place
      All properties are located in Boardman Township, Mahoning County, State of Ohio.
      Brad Calhoun, Chairman
      Board of Trustees, Boardman Township
      Krista Beniston, AICP,
      Director of Zoning and Development
  LEGAL NOTICE  
  May 17, 2018 Edition  
     The Board of Trustees of Boardman Township shall conduct a Public Hearing on the following amendment to the Boardman Township Zoning Resolution and Township Zoning Map on Tuesday, May 29, 2018 at 5:15 PM, at the Boardman Township Government Center, 8299 Market Street, Boardman, Ohio 44512. Text and maps of the request may be viewed at the Boardman Township Zoning Office, 8299 Market Street, Boardman, Ohio 44512 Monday through Friday, between the hours of 8:00 AM and 4:00 PM, until time of hearing.
      This is the final hearing in determination of this case. The Board shall act either immediately or within twenty (20) days of the hearing date.
      AMENDMENT A-2018-11
      Pursuant to Article XVI, Section F, Part a, Number 1 of the Boardman Township Zoning Resolution, as amended through May 29, 2012, concerning the initiation of amendments to the Township Zoning Resolution, the Board of Trustees of Boardman Township find it necessary to initiate hearings to amend the Boardman Township Zoning Resolution and Township zoning Map to reclassify and rezone the following 191 parcels of real property from Residential R-2 Districts to Residential R-1 Districts:
      12 Parcels along Aravesta Avenue
      10 Parcels along Brookwood Road
      22 Parcels along Firnley Avenue
      55 Parcels along Forest Park Drive
      22 Parcels on Friendship Avenue
      4 Parcels on Glenwood
      2 Parcels along Lemans Drive
      2 Parcels along Oak Knoll Drive
      62 Parcels along Shields Road
      All properties are located in Boardman Township, Mahoning County, State of Ohio.
      Brad Calhoun, Chairman
      Board of Trustees, Boardman Township
      Krista Beniston, AICP,
      Director of Zoning and Development
  School Levy Passes By 221 Votes  
  Supt. Tim Saxton: “We have to make sure we engage the 49 per cent of the people who voted against the levy”:   May 10, 2018 Edition  
     Boardman Local Schools $49 million additional tax levy narrowly gained voter approval in Tuesday’s primary elections, passing by 221 votes, 5,197 for the issue, and 4,976 against.
      Of the 20 precincts in Boardman voting on the issue, the measure was approved in 15 precincts, and lost in five precincts. In seven precincts, the measure was decided by 10 votes or less. Voters in Beaver Township Precinct 2 also cast ballots on the Boardman School levy, where the measure lost, 190-135.
      Voters in Precinct 6, who cast ballots at St. John’s Greek Orthodox Church, approved the levy by the widest margin, 200-95.
      The school system announced proposed personnel cutbacks in light of projected deficit spending by July, 2019 at a community meeting held in March.
      “We have to make sure we engage the 49 per cent of the people who voted against the levy,” Supt. Tim Saxton said, noting he was grateful the measure was approved.
      “We will continue to sharpen our pencil,” Saxton said, suggesting “We come together and put our energies at the state funding formula.”
      Boardman Local School enrollment has dropped by 800 students over the past decade, while its general fund budget has increased by some $10 million.
      Boardman Township had a 2.9-mil replacement levy on the May ballot that was approved by a 58 per cent margin, 6,287-4,413.
      “The past eight years the current Board of Trustees and Fiscal Officer have made it a priority to engage with our community and be open and transparent about our finances and the decisions we make. We are extremely grateful for the passage of the levy and appreciate the trust the residents have in the elected officials and the men and women who serve Boardman Township. We appreciate the support and promise to maintain the high level of service our residents deserve. We understand the sacrifice our residents have made to support our community and we pledge to continue to monitor expenses and lobby Columbus for relief to property owners,” Trustee Brad Calhoun said.
      10,700 voters cast ballots on the school township’s replacement levy, while 537 less people voted on the school levy, according to Mahoning County Board of Elections unofficial results. They show 10,173 people voted on the school levy.
      Three Boardman residents were on the Democratic Party ballot for two state posts and another ran for a seat on the Common Pleas Court.
      Joe Schiavoni got just 9 per cent of the votes statewide in a bid for governor. He won handily in Mahoning County against winner Richard Cordray, 16,119-6,909. Schiavoni also won in Trumbull County, and lost to Cordray in Columbiana County.
      Boardman Trustee Larry Moliterno sought a seat as a State Representative/59th District, but lost to Poland Township Trustee Eric Ungaro, 8,640-4,840.
      Dan Dascenzo, of Boardman, sought the seat on the bench, and lost to Anthony Donofrio, 14,005-10,574.
      The May primaries also tested local Republican ranks, where Mahoning County GOP chieftan Mark Munroe, of Boardman, ran against Columbiana County GOP chair Dave Johnson for a seat as state central committeeman for the 33rd District.
      Johnson won in both counties to retain the seat, beating Munroe by a wide margin, 10,090-4,374.
      But incumbent 33rd District committeewoman, Tracey Winbush, who also serves the Ohio Republican Party as its treasurer and is a member of the Mahoning County Board of Elections, lost her bid for re-election to Monica Robb-Blasdel, of Columbiana, 6,102-5,047. Robb-Blasdel is the daughter of Seventh District Court of Appeals Judge Carol Ann Robb.
  LEGAL NOTICE  
  May 10, 2018 Edition  
     LEGAL NOTICE
      The Boardman Township Zoning Commission will conduct a Public Hearing on the following amendment to the Boardman Township Zoning Resolution and Township Zoning Map on Tuesday, May 22, 2018 at 5:30 PM, at the Boardman Township Government Center, 8299 Market Street, Boardman, Ohio 44512. Text and maps of the request may be viewed at the Boardman Township Zoning Office, 8299 Market Street, Boardman, Ohio 44512 Monday through Friday, between the hours of 8:00 AM and 4:00 PM, until time of hearing.
      Following the recommendation of the Zoning Commission, the proposed amendment will be referred to the Board of Trustees for final determination.
      AMENDMENT A-2018-10
      Pursuant to Article XVI, Section F, Part a, Number 1 of the Boardman Township Zoning Resolution, as amended through May 29, 2012, concerning the initiation of amendments to the Township Zoning Resolution, the Board of Trustees of Boardman Township find it necessary to initiate hearings to amend the Boardman Township Zoning Resolution and Township zoning Map to reclassify and rezone the following 168 parcels of real property from Residential R-2 Districts to Residential R-1 Districts:
      35 Parcels along Amherst Avenue
      38 Parcels along Claybourne Avenue
      36 Parcels along Glendale Ave
      13 Parcels along Glenwood Avenue
      9 Parcels on Paxton Road
      18 Parcels along Rockdale Avenue
      19 Parcels along Vineland Place
      All properties are located in Boardman Township, Mahoning County, State of Ohio.
      Peter W. Lymber, Chairman
      Boardman Township Zoning Commission
      Krista Beniston, AICP,
      Director of Zoning and Development
  LEGAL NOTICE  
  May 10, 2018 Edition  
     LEGAL NOTICE
      The Boardman Township Zoning Commission will conduct a Public Hearing on the following amendment to the Boardman Township Zoning Resolution and Township Zoning Map on Tuesday, May 22, 2018 at 5:30 PM, at the Boardman Township Government Center, 8299 Market Street, Boardman, Ohio 44512. Text and maps of the request may be viewed at the Boardman Township Zoning Office, 8299 Market Street, Boardman, Ohio 44512 Monday through Friday, between the hours of 8:00 AM and 4:00 PM, until time of hearing.
      Following the recommendation of the Zoning Commission, the proposed amendment will be referred to the Board of Trustees for final determination.
      AMENDMENT A-2018-11
      Pursuant to Article XVI, Section F, Part a, Number 1 of the Boardman Township Zoning Resolution, as amended through May 29, 2012, concerning the initiation of amendments to the Township Zoning Resolution, the Board of Trustees of Boardman Township find it necessary to initiate hearings to amend the Boardman Township Zoning Resolution and Township zoning Map to reclassify and rezone the following 191 parcels of real property from Residential R-2 Districts to Residential R-1 Districts:
      12 Parcels along Aravesta Avenue
      10 Parcels along Brookwood Road
      22 Parcels along Firnley Avenue
      55 Parcels along Forest Park Drive
      22 Parcels on Friendship Avenue
      4 Parcels on Glenwood
      2 Parcels along Lemans Drive
      2 Parcels along Oak Knoll Drive
      62 Parcels along Shields Road
      All properties are located in Boardman Township, Mahoning County, State of Ohio.
      Peter W. Lymber, Chairman
      Boardman Township Zoning Commission
      Krista Beniston, AICP,
      Director of Zoning and Development
  NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING  
  May 10, 2018 Edition  
     The Boardman Township Board of Appeals shall hold a Public Hearing on Tuesday, May 22, 2018 at 7:00 PM at the Boardman Township Government Center, 8299 Market Street, Boardman Township, Ohio 44512, for consideration of the following cases:
      APPEAL CASE AC-2018-06
      Charles Whitman, property owner, 7690 Market St., Boardman, Ohio 44512, requests a variance on behalf of tenant Logo Base, LLC, The Dog Stop, business owner, requests a variance for the terms of the Boardman Township Zoning Resolution, effective May 29, 2012, Article XV, Part Three, B. Parking Par. 2: provide less green space than required. Par. 3: to install no landscape islands per 10 parking spaces required. Article XV, Part Three C. Landscaping/Lawn Requirements, Par. 2: maintain existing Market Street frontage of 12’ rather than the required 19’ and waive required planting requirements. Article XV, Part Three C. Landscaping/Lawn Requirements, Par 6: Install two eight foot high fenced in areas 2’ higher than the maximum 6’ allowed. The property is further known as LOT 6 209.37 X 450 REPL LT 6 AGNEW PL 1, Parcel 29-093-0-099.00-0. Said property is zoned Commercial, in Boardman Township, Mahoning County, State of Ohio.
      APPEAL CASE AC-2018-07
      Petitti Garden Centers, 5509 South Ave., Boardman, Ohio 44512, property owner, requests a variance for the terms of the Boardman Township Zoning Resolution, effective May 29, 2012, Article XII Exceptions and Special Provisions, F. Fencing that states “No fence, wall or hedge shall be permitted between the front building line and the street in any business, commercial or industrial district.”, in order to erect a 6’ fence in the front of the property. The property is further known as LOT 1 256.12 X 837.29 IRR J J CIARNIELLO PL 1, Parcel 29-020-0-006.00-0. Said property is zoned Commercial, in Boardman Township, Mahoning County, State of Ohio.
      APPEAL CASE AC-2018-09
      Matt McGragor, 360 McClurg Rd. Boardman, Ohio 44512, property owner, requests a variance for the terms of the Boardman Township Zoning Resolution, effective May 29, 2012, Article XVI Administration, I. Conditional Use Regulations in order to construct outdoor recreational areas on the property. The property is further known as GL 29 DIV 4, Parcel 29-038-0-007.03-0. Said property is zoned Industrial, in Boardman Township, Mahoning County, State of Ohio.
      APPEAL CASE AC-2018-10
      Viorel Bosca, 290 Mathews Rd. Boardman, Ohio 44512, property owner, requests a variance for the terms of the Boardman Township Zoning Resolution, effective May 29, 2012, Article V. Residence R-1 Districts B. Yard, Area and Height Provisions in order to build a rear property addition. The addition will be 18’ (feet) deep and extend 12’ into the required 40’ rear property setback leaving a 28’ rear setback. The property is further known as LOT 29 84.2 X 175 PFAU & FAUNCE MEADOWBRK R, Parcel 29-008-0-103.00-0. Said property is zoned Residental, in Boardman Township, Mahoning County, State of Ohio.
      APPEAL CASE AC-2018-11
      Tim McWilliams, 5105 Market St. Boardman, Ohio 44512, property owner, requests an administrative appeal for the terms of the Boardman Township Zoning Resolution, effective May 29, 2012, Article XVIV. Land Use Tables in order to use a Commercial property for residential as well in a building originally built as mixed use. The property is further known as LOT 61 60 X 220.2 WILLOWS REPLAT, Parcel 29-002-0-304.00-0. Said property is zoned Commercial, in Boardman Township, Mahoning County, State of Ohio.
      APPEAL CASE AC-2018-12
      EDD Properties LLC, 7629 Market St. Suite 200 Boardman, Ohio 44512, property owner, 8574 Market St. Boardman, Ohio 44512 requests a variance for the terms of the Boardman Township Zoning Resolution, effective May 29, 2012, Article X. Section C. Yard area and height provisions in order to have no side yard setback 10’ (feet) less than required side yard setback. The property is further known as UNIT 1 WOODWORTH RESERVE CONDOMINIUM (ORIGINAL), Parcel 29-096-0-006.08-0. Said property is zoned Commercial, in Boardman Township, Mahoning County, State of Ohio.
      APPEAL CASE AC-2018-13
      Rich and Lisa Santucci, 992 Shields Rd. Boardman, Ohio 44512, property owner, requests a variance for the terms of the Boardman Township Zoning Resolution, effective May 29, 2012, Article V. Residence R-1 Distrcits Section E. Fencing in order to erect a fence on the property line that does not meet the 16’ (foot) setback for residential corner lots. The property is further known as LOT 52 100 X 195 IRR NEWPORT WEST PL 3, Parcel 29-082-0-071.00-0. Said property is zoned Residential, in Boardman Township, Mahoning County, State of Ohio.
      APPEAL CASE AC-2018-14
      FIDC 68 LLC, 100 DeBartolo Place, Suite 400 Boardman, Ohio 44512, property owner, 8578 Market St. Boardman, Ohio 44512 requests a variance for the terms of the Boardman Township Zoning Resolution, effective May 29, 2012, Article X. Section C. Yard area and height provisions in order to have no side yard setback 10’ (feet) less than required side yard setback. The property is further known as UNIT 2 WOODWORTH RESERVE CONDOMINIUM (ORIGINAL) Parcel 29-096-0-006.09-0. Said property is zoned Commercial, in Boardman Township, Mahoning County, State of Ohio.
      Text and maps of the request may be viewed at the Boardman Township Zoning Office, 8299 Market Street, Boardman, Ohio 44512 Monday through Friday, between the hours of 8:00 AM and 4:00 PM, until time of hearing.
      Atty. John F. Shultz, Chairman
      Boardman Township Board of Appeals
      Krista D. Beniston, AICP,
      Director of Zoning and Development
  YSU Football Camps  
  May 10, 2018 Edition  
     The Youngstown State football program will hold its summer individual camps between June 6 and June 20 under fourth-year Head Coach Bo Pelini and his staff. All camps will be held at Stambaugh Stadium and the WATTS. Two other camps are slated for late July.
      The Youngstown State football coaching staff is accepting individual applications for their summer camps. For more information or for brochures, contact the YSU football office at (330) 941-3478. Campers can register directly online at www.penguinsfootballcamps.com
      Those interested in attending can also contact YSU assistant coach Travis Tislartez at twtislaretz@ysu.edu or Director of Football Operations John Murphy at jtmurphy03@ysu.edu.
      Youngstown State will offer a variety of camps as a chance for area and regional players to learn as well as showcase their talents to the staff. YSU is offering three specialty camps, two one-day on-campus all-position camps at YSU, and the popular passing and Thursday Night Football camps in late July.
      All on-campus camps will be held at Stambaugh Stadium or in the WATTS on the YSU campus. The one-day on-campus All-Position Camps will be held the afternoon’s of June 5 and June 7. The specialty camps are the QB/WR/TE Skills Camp and the O-Line/D-Line Skills Camp are on June 11 and the McFadden/Wilkins Kicking Camp on June 19.
      The single-day All-Position Camps are designed to offer instruction and allow the YSU coaching staff an opportunity to access your skill set. The fast-paced two-hour camp (4-6 p.m.) is being held on the YSU campus on June 5 and June 7 for only $50. Coaches will work closely with each participant offering them a chance to experience what a YSU practice is really like.
      The QB/WR/TE Skills Camp, which is set for Monday, June 11, is intended be a unique opportunity for those three positions to be taught by the YSU staff with the emphasis on individual improvement. The all-day camp (9 a.m. to 3 p.m.) features on-field drills and film sessions with the Penguins’ staff. Quarterbacks should bring a football with the their name written on the ball. The cost of this camp is $70 and it is a great chance for grades 9-12 to enhance their skills.
      The O-Line/D-Line Skills Camp, which is set for Friday, June 11, will help teach fundamentals and is a great chance for entire units to install offensive and defensive strategies for the fall. The cost of the Skills Day is $70 per participant and is for students entering grades 9-12. The camp starts at 9 a.m. with dismissal at three o’clock in the afternoon. Lunch will be provided.
      The McFadden/Wilkins Kicking Camp is set for Tuesday, June 19. Former YSU and NFL placekickers Paul McFadden and Jeff Wilkins along with former NFL long snapper Chris Massey will work with punters, placekickers and long snappers to improve all facets of their game. The cost is $70 per camper and is open to students in grades 9-12. The camp is slated to run from 9 a.m. until 3 p.m. Lunch will be provided.
      On Thursday, July 26 is the all-skills Thursday Night Football Camp for juniors and seniors only. The camp will be from 5-7 p.m. and cost $50. This is a helmeted camp which is designed to teach fundamentals and learn new drills for improvement prior to the fast-approaching season.
      The Penguins’ staff will hold their 7-on-7 Passing Camp that will allow teams to utilize the WATTS and Stambaugh Stadium for some key preseason preparation. The camp will be on Friday, July 27 and run throughout the day (8 a.m. to 4 p.m.). It’s a great chance for first-team and second-team units to work on chemistry and timing just prior to beginning fall camp. The cost also includes lunch for all participants and coaches.
      2018 YSU Football Summer Camps
       •June 5: All-Position Camp (Grades 9-12)
       •June 7: All-Position Camp (Grades 9-12)
       •June 11: QB/WR/TE Skills Camp (Grades 9-12)
       •June 11: O-Line/D-Line Skills Day (Grades 9-12)
       •June 19: McFadden & Wilkins Kickers Camp (Grades 9-12)
       •July 26: Thursday Night Football Camp (6:30-8:30 p.m.)
       •July 27: 7-on-7 Passing Camp (8 a.m. to 4 p.m.)
  $49 Million School Tax Levy Goes For Voter Approval Tues., May 8  
  May 3, 2018 Edition  
      Boardman Township will have three, particular candidates on the May 8 primary ballot; and there will be two tax issues presented to the electorate, including a $49 million, ten-year request for additional property tax revenue for the Boardman Local School District.
      In addition, all seats in both the Republican and Democratic party camps are on the ballot for precinct committeemen.
      State Sen. Joe Schiavoni, of Boardman, is seeking the Democratic party nomination for Governor of Ohio; Larry Moliterno, 427 Gardenview Dr., a Boardman Township Trustee, is running for a seat as a representative in the Ohio Legislature; and Dan Dascenzo, 7768 Silver Fox Dr., is a Democratic Party candidate for judge on the Mahoning County Court of Common Pleas.
      Ohio Governor
      Schiavoni has received very good reviews from around the state of Ohio in his bid for the governorship. However, despite serving ten years in the Ohio Senate, he is a relatively unknown in the race for governor. Six candidates are on the ballot in the Dem camp for governor, where party loyalists seem to support Richard Cordray and his running mate, Betty Sutton.
      Cordray served under President Barak Obama as the first Director of the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau, from 2012 to 2017. Prior to his appointment, Cordray variously served as Ohio’s Attorney General, Solicitor General. and Treasurer.
      Schiavoni’s campaign has received endorsements from State Sen. Sean O’Brien, Rep.Glenn Holmes, Rep. Michele Lepore-Hagan, Rep. Michael O’Brien, the Canton Professional Educators’ Association (CPEA), Communication Workers of America #4300, International Association of Firefighters #312, Ohio BATs education group, Utility Workers Union of America (UWUA) and the Western Reserve Building Trades Council.
      Ohio Representative
      In the Democratic Party race for a seat as the 59th Ohio House of Representative, Boardman Trustee Larry Moliterno and Poland Township Trustee Eric Ungaro are engaged in a battle that has sparked voter interest.
      Moliterno has campaigned as a candidate looking to meet with all people and agencies in an effort to address issues facing the 59th district, while Ungaro has narrowed the focus of his campaign to his political party and his unionism.
      In this race, the question seems clear---Vote for a candidate willing to work with everybody to get things done, or vote for a candidate clearly attached to his union membership as a member of a teachers’ union.
      Common Pleas Judge
      Dan Dascenzo and Anthony Donofrio are on the May 8 Democratic party ballot for the seat on the Mahoning County Common Pleas bench currently held by Judge Lou D’Apolito, who is retiring due to age restrictions.
      “For the past nine years I have served as your Mahoning County Common Pleas Court Magistrate. I’m a husband and father of two sons. This community is my home. It’s where I grew up, went to school, and learned the value of hard work and family,” Dascenzo says, adding “I learned that honesty and integrity define a person. And I understand how important it is to a community to elect a good judge. Someone who will ensure the safety and security of our neighborhoods.”
      Members of the Donofrio family have been elected judges for a combined 47 years, and the candidate’s candidacy touts his family has served all that time “without a hint of controversy.”
      Boardman Local School Levy
      The Boardman Local School District is seeking voter approving of a 5.8-mil, 10-year tax levy designed to bring-in about $49 million over the life of the levy.
      School officials say the additional money is needed in order to overcome cutbacks in state subsidies that has created projected deficit spending of an estimated $3.4 million by the end of the current fiscal year.
      Since 2012, school officials say funding from state subsidies has declined by some $25 million.
      During the past 13 years, enrollment in the Boardman Local Schools has dipped by some 800 students, while expenditures have increased by an estimated $10 million to $11 million.
      So, as the record reflects, it costs more money to educate less children.
      Approval of the school levy, over the ten year span, would cost the average homeowner upwards of $6000 in additional taxes.
      Boardman Township Levy
      Boardman Township will have a 2.9-mil, five-year tax issue on the ballot for current expenses.
      According to Township Administrator Jason Loree, the 2.9-mil issue will replace a 3.2-mil levy that generated $1.2 million per year. If approved, the $2.9-mil issue will raise about $2.7 million annually, and increase taxes about $67 per $100,000 of valuation, Loree said.
      Trustee Brad Calhoun made the following comments on the township’s replacement levy:
      “With the replacement, the $100,000 the home owner will pay an additional $11.50 per half.
      “Why a replacement?
      “Loss of local revenue funds, loss of Tangible Personal Property revenue, loss of the estate tax revenue. Over a five year forecast, the Township has loss nearly $11 million. The last ‘new money’ was approved in 2011 and we met every commitment made to the residents and more, eight years later and a loss of $11 million, we decided to place a replacement levy on the ballot to solidify our budget going forward. We have balanced the budget every year while improving services to our community. The community has spoken loud and clear to the elected officials about maintaining strong police and fire departments.
      “A $23 investment per year by the home owner will allow us to keep moving in the right direction as we aggressively look to improve roads, update zoning codes/enforcement, and quality of life issues.
      “Why did we decide to decrease the 3.2 levy with a 2.9?
      “After reviewing our five year business plan and analyzing our financial forecast we believe a 2.9 replacement levy is all the tax dollars needed to maintain a balanced budget for next five years.
      “The past eight years we have been transparent and maintained an open dialogue with the community. We have presented the needs and goals in our five year business plan that has been renewed and updated annually. Taking care of those dollars entrusted to the Board is always a priority and this replacement levy will cost an additional $11.50 per half next year for a $100,000 home. This levy will allow Boardman Township to continue to operate efficiently and maintain customer service as our residents have always enjoyed. We continue to be proactive in collaboration with other communities and always look to seek grant dollars for paving, zoning, fire and police.
      “Boardman Township has aggressively asked state legislators to release money from the rainy day fund to reduce the burden on property owners. We seek every opportunity to write grants and the past few years the township has secured millions of state and federal dollars to support township services.
      Local Option Issues
      There will be two local option liquor issues on the May 8 ballot.
      In Precinct 8, Fast Trac, 7103 Lockwood Blvd., is seeking approval of beer and wine sales for carryout. as well as Sunday sales; and in precinet 9, Buckeye Auto Wash, 6123 Market St., is seeking approval of beer and wine sales for carryout, as well as sale of intoxicating liquor on Sunday between the hours 10:00 a.m. or 11:00 a.m. and midnight.
  Division In The Local GOP  
  State Central Committee Posts Contested:   May 3, 2018 Edition  
     While the focus of the May 8 primary elections locally seems centered on three races and a large school tax levy---Ohio Governor, 59th Ohio House District, and a Mahoning County Common Pleas and a large school tax levy; the election for the Republican seat as a 33rd District State Central Committee member is drawing a lot of comment.
      In that race, incumbent Tracy Winbush, 137 Greeley Ave., Youngstown, Oh., has two opponents, Corrine Sanderson, of 2385 Chaney Circle, Youngstown, Oh., and Monica Robb Blasdel, of 218 Canterbury Ct., Columbiana, Oh.
      Opposition to Winbush has included claims she voted for a state GOP chairman, Matt Borges, who had a previous criminal record linked to political favoritism, and she also drew ire for supporting President Trump’s efforts to build a wall covering the southern border of the United States and Mexico, while at the same time joining local Democrats in championing a campaign to keep an illegal immigrant, Amer Adi, in Youngstown.
      Winbush acknowledged in Jan., 2017 she voted for Borges as state GOP chairman as sort of a political ‘quid pro quo,’ and said she supported Adi staying in Youngstown, because it was “the right thing to do.”
      Borges was embroiled in pay-to-play scandal in 2004 when Borges was chief of staff to former Republican state Treasurer Joe Deters. Borges plead guilty in Cuyahoga County Common Pleas Court to a misdemeanor count of unauthorized use of a public office for giving preferential treatment to certain brokers who contributed to Deters’ re-election campaign. He paid $1,000 in fines and the record was later expunged.
      Borges’s candidacy for state GOP chairman was a big deal in national politics. His defeat to retain the position was seen as a win for Donald Trump.
      Borges, a key Kasich ally, lost the top job after a series of dramatically deadlocked votes by the state party’s Central Committee. Taking his place is Jane Timken, a prominent Stark County activist and donor.
      Borges led Ohio Republicans to landslide victories in 2014 and 2016. But he was accused of criticizing Trump during the presidential primary and only offering tepid support for the billionaire businessman after he won the GOP nomination.
      Winbush’s candidacy also seems to have spurred current Mahoning County Republican chairman, Mark Munroe, to enter the race for a seat as a 33rd District Republican Committeeman against longtime incumbent, Dave Johnson, Columbiana County Republican chairman.
      Munroe came forward after a Facebook post from Sanderson saying the following:
      “This past Friday, Corrine Sanderson posted a Facebook message to the [Canfield Republican Ladies] club that demands a response.
      “I like Corrine and appreciate how she represented herself during the 2016 campaign for state representative. I also appreciate that she acknowledged that it was through my efforts that she became a candidate in 2016. In addition to being an exciting presidential election year, we had a strong slate of local candidates.
      “However, in her message she complained that she ran with “no help, no money, no campaign manager and a spoiler placed in her race.”
      “Corrine would not have been a candidate if not for the help of the local party. As the filing deadline approached, she lacked the necessary signatures to be a candidate. It was only through the determined efforts of GOP volunteers that Corrine qualified for the ballot. Tracey and I both met with Corrine to discuss campaign strategy. The party offered multiple weeks of training and public speaking assistance. We arranged for a meeting in Columbus to network with other African-American candidates as well as meet with the Ohio House Republican Caucus. I promoted each of Corrine’s events using our email list.
      “Corrine received the same contribution from the party that all eight candidates were offered. Finances were very tight throughout the 2016 campaign season; the potential sale of Summitville Tile had us moving our headquarters to the new Boardman location and we were faced with many extraordinary expenses.
      “In most local races the candidate is usually their own campaign manager. The party offers advice and support as our volunteers are able to provide, but the responsibility of a campaign always rests with the candidate.
      “Corrine’s complaint about a ‘spoiler’ in her race is ridiculous. Corrine seems to suggest that the party is somehow responsible for Andrea Mahone filing as an independent, making it a three-way contest. Andrea Mahone has said that she was motivated by her faith and that she had a calling to run the race. Tracey Winbush and I (and others) met with Andrea to encourage her to withdraw as a candidate to give Corrine the best chance against the Democrat. We also arranged a private meeting between Corrine and Andrea to resolve the problem; Corrine refused to even meet with her. With Andrea’s refusing to withdraw, Corrine’s race became even more difficult. In the end, the combined votes of Corrine and Andrea were less that the votes received by the Democrat, Michelle Hagan.”
      After that political dribble, Munroe address his candidacy for 33rd District State Committeeman.
      “Allow me also to address my candidacy for State Committeeman where I had previously represented our 33rd district in Columbus. After the 2010 census the district boundaries were changed and Columbiana County was merged with Mahoning to form the district. As a result, either Dave Johnson or I would have to give up the seat. Since Tracey Winbush was already representing Mahoning County as Committeewoman, I decided to opt out of the race permitting Dave Johnson to serve as Committeeman, allowing Mahoning County and Columbiana County to both have representation with the state party in Columbus.
      “If Columbiana County is successful in defeating Tracey, Mahoning County Republicans for the first time ever will not have a representative in Columbus. Mahoning County is one of the large Ohio urban counties with twice as many Republicans as Columbiana County. I decided to run to improve the odds we would continue to have a Mahoning County representative on the state committee.
      “Tracey and I both support State Party Chairman Timken; in fact my support of Jane Timken cost me my position on the state racing commission when the Governor’s people were not happy with my support of Jane.
      “Tracey Winbush has served with distinction and honor. With Jane Timken’s support, she is currently Treasurer of the Ohio Republican Party and President of the Ohio Black Republicans Association. Her efforts on behalf of the party have been ongoing and intense.
      “Internal party struggles are not new. But the nastiness of what I am seeing is disturbing on many levels…including letters written to Salem Broadcasting making claims that somehow Tracey’s opponents were entitled to equal time on the radio. These are party positions. Equal access requirements do not apply to internal state party races. That letter cost Tracey her radio program and her livelihood. It also cost the Mahoning Valley a voice in Cleveland and what was to be an entry into the Columbus radio market. This personal vindictiveness needs to stop.
      “Regardless of what side you are on, let’s all make a commitment to come together after election day. There is still much work ahead of us.”
      * * * * * * * * * *
      After Munroe issued his call to cease personal vindictiveness, a Facebook post identified as coming from Mahoning County GOP Treasurer Mark Mangie appeared on the Columbiana County Democratic Party’s Facebook site.
      In that post, Mangie praised Winbush while seeming to blame Columbiana County Republicans for the mess within the Mahoning County GOP leadership.
      Mangie’s Facebook post included the following:
      “You may have noticed campaign ads for something called the Republican Party Central Committee. This is the governing body for the Ohio Republican Party. Each Ohio Senate district has two spots on the committee...one male and one female. In the last redistricting 10 years ago, Mahoning and Columbiana Counties were joined into one district...which meant that Mark Munroe, Mahoning County Chairman, and Dave Johnson, Columbiana County Chairman, could not both be on the Central Committee.
      “The agreement between the counties was that as long as Tracey Winbush was the female committee member, Dave Johnson would be the male committee member. That came to an abrupt end this year. Tracey Winbush has served with distinction in the state party. She was elected Treasurer. She is also President of the Ohio Black Republican Organization. She chaired Donald Trump’s campaign in Mahoning County. But apparently the folks in Columbiana County weren’t satisfied, and they are running two people against Tracey this year trying to take Mahoning County representation away.
      “In the process, dirty politics stemming from this race...letters written to Salem Broadcasting from one of her opponents...cost Tracey her radio program and her livelihood. It cost the Mahoning Valley its voice in Cleveland, and we were about to make inroads into the Columbus market. Mark Munroe has moved to protect Mahoning County’s interest in Columbus by filing for the male spot against Mr. Johnson now that the tacit agreement has been violated.”
      Mangie’s views did not go over well with Chairman Johnson.
      He made the following reply to Mangie:
      “The following is in response to Atty Mark Mangie’s scurrilous Facebook post being shared to, among others, various Democrat sources in Columbiana County. The charges Mangie makes about Columbiana County GOP chairman Dave Johnson are lies perpetrated by Mark Monroe. And they are utterly shameless.
      “1) There was never any agreement between Mark Monroe and Dave Johnson relative to the Republican State Committee---no such ‘agreement’ was ever even discussed. As the more senior member of the Committee at time of redistricting in 2010 (Johnson having been elected in 1996) - why would Chairman Johnson give up his tenured seat just because of redistricting or offer some sort of quid pro quo to keep it?
      “That never happened the way Mangie (and Monroe) claim.
      “2) Chairman Johnson had absolutely NOTHING to do with Tracey Winbush losing her radio broadcast job and Monroe and Mangie know it. Chairman Johnson would never have done such a thing. This is designed to deliberately besmirch his character in the eyes of Mahoning (and Columbiana) Party loyalists. It won’t succeed.
      “3) Republicans in Columbiana County are supporting Monica Blasdel because she can be counted upon to support Jane Timken...PERIOD. Tracey Winbush did NOT support Jane Timken in her last election...and there’s a statewide effort under way now to oust Chairman Timken at the next Party reorganization, IF the ‘insurgents’ succeed in taking out committeemen like Dave Johnson...PERIOD. The Monroe campaign has NOTHING to do with geographic (county) boundaries...it has everything to do with who the Party can TRUST when it comes to the re-election of Jane Timken. Can Monroe and Winbush be trusted? I wouldn’t bet on it.
      “4) Mahoning County (Republican) collussion (Mangie) with Democrats in Columbiana County to smear the incumbent Republican State Committeeman? How disgraceful. That’s a new low...it ranks right up with the Mahoning County ‘sham endorsement’ process (secret meeting hand selected by Mark Monroe)...and then denying the state GOP Party’s endorsed candidate (Dave Johnson) the right to place an ad in Lincoln Day Banquet program “because he was not endorsed by Mahoning County Party...after first inviting him to do so. Again - how disgraceful. Clarence Smith would never have stooped to these tactics. Mark Monroe should be run out of the GOP Party at next election.”
      * * * * * * * * * *
      All that being said, the disruption among Mahoning and Columbiana County Republicans was discussed with former Mahoning County GOP Chairman Smith recently. “I would have never allowed this,” Smith said, adding “It wouldn’t happen.”
  Local Business Leader Launches New Book  
  April 30, 2018 Edition  
Greg Smith, Author
     Greg Smith’s Speak Like a Pro without Looking Like a Jack@$$ is available Mon., Apr. 30 for business professionals and anyone else who would profit from better speaking skills.
     
      Over the last decade, Compco Industries’ Chairman of the Board, Greg Smith, set out on personal quest to learn all he could about public speaking. Today, he is the author of new book on the art and science of effective speaking titled Speak Like a Pro without Looking Like a Jack@$$.
     
      “I’ve discovered how powerfully communications skills can impact a person’s personal and professional lives and I felt an overwhelming need to share what I’ve learned with as many people as I could,” Smith says of his book.
     
      Speak Like a Pro without Looking Like a Jack@$$ is Smith’s first book. In it, Smith condenses and gives context to insights gained over years of intense, personal study with the best speaker-trainers in America. These “masters”, as Smith calls them, include voice coach Roger Love, former NFL player turned playwright and story trainer Bo Eason, personal power coach Tony Robbins, former Army Green Beret and leadership coach Scott Mann, communications coaches Mary Kincaid and Jonathan Altfeld and Leadership expert John Maxwell—author of several best-selling books, including The 21 Irrefutable Laws of Leadership. Smith even dedicated the book to Maxwell, whom he has been friends with for more than twenty years.
     
      “I spent a great deal of time and money researching this book. And, now, anyone can buy it for less than ten dollars and read it in just a few hours,” Smith says.
     
      According to Smith, his book covers a wide range of topics including keys for developing impactful content for speeches and connecting deeply with the audience as well as advice for improving the speaker’s voice quality and body movements on stage. “I wanted to write something that covered all the bases and would be immediately helpful to both the novice and experienced speaker,” Smith says.
     
      As for his intended audience, Smith says “I define public speaking a little differently than some. This book is not for politicians and performers. If you use communication in business or life, Speak Like a Pro without Looking Like a Jack@$$ is for you. It’s information that makes people and companies more productive and profitable.”
     
      In order to introduce his book to the widest possible audience, Smith priced the e-book version at $1.99 (regular price- $7.99) and the print version at $9.99 (regular price- $19.99). This is for one day only—Monday, April 30th.
     
      Speak Like a Pro without Looking Like a Jack@$$ is available on gregsmithleadership.com, amazon.com, barnesandnoble.com and other online stores.
     
  The Way I See It  
  by Joy Mistovich:   April 26, 2018 Edition  
      APRIL 2018: Hello again, everyone! In this month’s column, I will focus on possible new regulations that could negatively impact individuals with and without disabilities. The topic of discussion is net neutrality: what is it, why is it important, and why might this become a thing of the past. In 2003 Tim Wu, a Columbia law professor, originally coined the term net neutrality. A simple definition of the term from Wikipedia is as follows: the principle that governments should mandate Internet service providers to treat all data on the Internet the same, and not discriminate or charge differently by user, content, website, platform, application, type of attached equipment, or method of communication. In other words, any large Internet Service Provider, such as AT&T, Verizon, Comcast, etc. does not have the authority to block Internet content, which allows everyone to receive equal access to information, in spite of the cost they pay for Internet service. While the net neutrality law was still in effect, Comcast, Verizon, and others tried to force customers to pay high Internet prices or slow down website speeds, but the FCC blocked these company’s actions from occurring.
      The principle of net neutrality was first implemented in 2005. From this point through December 2017, the chair of the FCC made a drastic reversal to create a major blow to the idea of equal access to all content for everyone. Once the vote was cast, some states started to try and block this new regulation. The date for net neutrality to be abolished is towards the end of this month, but high-ranking individuals are testifying to Congress and doing whatever else they can for this to not take effect. If the anti-net neutrality law goes off without difficulty and is implemented, this can be compared to stripping all US citizens with disabilities equal access to public spaces, employment, and recreation and eliminate the ADA altogether. The anti-net neutrality ruling forces government and Internet companies to take advantage of customers who pay lower Internet fees to receive a skewed amount of Internet content and an unfair advantage for those who might have to pay more expensive bills for top tier services.
      For individuals with disabilities, surfing the Web will become more difficult, and in an article by Motherboard Voice, it discusses how the FCC chairman Ajit Pai falsely claims eliminating net neutrality will improve disabled individuals’ lives. AT&T, Verizon, and Comcast continued to claim that net neutrality rules were negatively affecting their profits and investments. The article gives a specific example of how Comcast falsely claimed in 2010 that net neutrality rules were hurting rather than helping disabled individuals. They stated a specific product created by the company allows hearing-impaired or Deaf individuals to receive instant written subtitles in real time. This required Internet prioritization, in other words, high definition video that is more expensive and should be available free of charge to anyone who requires this service. However, Comcast claimed disabled individuals wouldn’t be able to afford these higher costs, since they wished to charge more expensive fees. The ruling, though, was thankfully eliminated.
      Just the other day, I happened to read an article explaining an Aira employee’s testimony to Congress regarding Internet prioritization video speeds. It would not only decrease video speeds for blind Aira users, it would also change the way everyone uses live real time video for conferencing, watching live events, and other tasks we take for granted when using the Internet. These two examples of altering net neutrality rules only scratch the surface of how using the Internet, as we know it, might become a luxury rather than receiving equal access for all.
      As the date of reversing this ruling nears, hopefully there will continue to be a push in the direction to not allow the FCC to make such a harsh ruling, providing the edge to the large Internet companies. We will soon see what transpires.
      Connect with Joy Mistovich on Google
      or Facebook at Eyedeas Without Borders or visit her blog at eyedeaswithoutborders.wordpress.com. Watch Joy’s Youtube videos by
      just typing in her name.
     
  Trustees Approve Zone Change To Allow New Car Dealership  
  April 26, 2018 Edition  
     Meeting on Monday, Boardman Trustees approved a zone change to add commercial land that will permit construction of a new Chrysler-Jeep-Dodge Ram dealership at 7901 Market St. operated by John Kufleitner.
      Kufleitner also owns Columbiana Chrysler Jeep Dodge at 100 Commerce Circle, Columbiana, John Kufleitner’s Galleria of Vintage, Classic & Pristine Cars, and the Just Like New Collision Repair & Classic Car Restoration, both at 13134 Salem-Alliance Road, Salem.
      Kufleitner said in 2016, Chrysler approached him about opening a dealership in Boardman.
      “They wanted to be in Boardman and they wanted me to be the dealer,” Kufleitner said, explaining, “because of monopoly laws you cannot own in three connecting or contiguous markets.”
      He was left with the choice of selling either his Columbiana or Salem location and the bottom line was if he didn’t take the Boardman point someone else would.
      “I didn’t want someone to come into my market,” he said. “This gives me Columbiana and Boardman.” He sold a Chrysler dealership he operated in Salem on Nov. 1, 2017.
      “I had no intention of leaving Salem, but I feel whoever goes to Boardman will have the upper hand on the Chrysler market in the whole Mahoning Valley.”
      “It will take a minimum of a year to build and open. We’re hopeful to be open in the 2018 calendar year.”
      Krista Beniston, Boardman Township zoning/planning director, said if Kufleitner obtains the necessary permits, construction on the new dealership could get underway in June.
      The proposed dealership will be situated on a 26.7-acre site, including a 54,000 sq.-ft. building.
      Kufleitner needed to go before the Board of Trustees in order to obtain access to the site from Scotland Ave., which he did, over the objections of some residents who live on that sparsely-populated street.
      The new dealership will employ about 75 people, according to Kufleitner’s site plan.
  BUMC Trash & Treasure Sale May 2-3  
  April 26, 2018 Edition  
      BOARDMAN UNITED METHODIST CHURCH WOMEN will hold their annual ‘Trash & Treasure Sale’ Wed., May 2 and Thurs., May 3, from 9:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. each day. Thursday will be ‘Bargain Day.’ Planning the sale, from left, are Rosemarie Eckenrode, Grace McKenzie, David Dangerfield (auctioneer), Karen Patterson (president), Bonnie Babyak (chairman).
  In The Face Of Declining Enrollment, Cost Of Operating Boardman Local Schools Has Increased By Some $9 Million Since 2003  
  April 19, 2018 Edition  
     According to Boardman Local School officials, including Supt. Tim Saxton and Treasurer Nicholas Ciarniello, a 5.8-mil additional tax levy on the May primary ballot that would generate $49 million over a ten-year period, will eliminate deficit spending of an estimated $3.4 million by the end of the current fiscal year.
      Approval of the levy, over the ten-year span, would cost the average homeowner upwards of $6000 in additional taxes for the public schools.
      In light of the financial projections, school officials say they will eliminate about a dozen employees, mostly teachers, at the end of the current school year, “regardless of whether the levy passes or not.” Those cuts will save the system about $520,000.
      If the levy fails, Supt. Saxton suggests the board will consider additional cutbacks to trim about $1 million more from the budget.
      School officials say the system has lost about $25 million in state revenues since 2012. The loss of funding did not come without warning, according to the Boardman Local School District’s 2003 audit, prepared by then Treasurer Richard Santilli.
      “The state’s 2003 budget contains legislation that reduces personal property tax revenue distributed to the [Boardman Local Schools] at a more accelerated rate than anticipated. In prior legislation, the inventory tax was to be reduced by one percent over twenty-five years. Now, it will be phased out at two percent each year over the next fourteen years.
      “In fiscal year 2002 the District collected $3.9 million on personal property. For fiscal year 2003, $3.76 million was collected.
      “The [Boardman] Board of Education is very concerned with the legislator’s decisions that have no replacement funds to balance the loss. Inventory tax reduction and the state personal property exemption phase out will have a major impact of lost tax revenue for the district,” Santilli warned.
      15 years later, that funding has been eliminated, and Boardman Local Schools are in a downward, financial spiral.
      Also appearing in a downward trend is enrollment in the district.
      According to figures supplied by the Ohio Department of Education, in 2003, enrollment in the Boardman Local Schools was reported at 4,920 students.
      By 2017, according to the most recent audit of the district, enrollment dipped to 4,119 students; or 801 students less than in 2003.
      Yet, during the same time frame, cost of operating the local system, has soared by some $9 million, to educate 801 less students
      In addition, according to audit figures, the number of certified staff members increased to 358 positions in 2017, up by 40 positions from the 2003 total of 318 certificated staffers,
      The number of non-certified staff members also increased, by 49 positions, from 259 positions in 2003, to 308 positions in 2017, according to audit reports.
      In 2003, according to an expenditure report prepared by Treasurer Ciarniello, the district expenditures were some $35.9 million.
      14 years and 801 less students later, the system’s expenditures jumped to $44.98 million.
      According to Ciarniello’s expenditure report, the two, major factors for the increase are the cost of ‘regular education instruction,’ that increased by some $3.68 million; and the cost of ‘special education instruction,’ that jumped by some $3.51 million.
      The increase in funding for special education programs appear to serve only 14.77 per cent of the system’s total student population.
      In 2003, Santilli also noted “The Ohio Supreme Court ruled in March, 1997 that the State of Ohio was operating an unconstitutional educational system, one that was neither ‘adequate’ nor ‘equitable.’ The state has not yet developed a school-funding plan that has been deemed acceptable by the Court, and ultimate resolution still seems to be some time in the future. There is concern that the state may not have the ability to fully fund the previously approved subsidies for primary and secondary education in the state budget.”
      To this day, school funding formulas for public school systems remain largely unchanged and, as the Court said, “unconstitutional,” except for the elimination of state subsidies.
      All the while, billions of state taxpayer dollars have been doled-out in the past decade to the largely underperforming charter schools that operate with little or no accountability standards forced upon public school systems.
  SEARS STORE AT SOUTHERN PARK TO CLOSE IN JULY  
  WP Glimcher Says 176,000 Sq. Ft. Site Will Be Redeveloped With Diversified Tenants:   April 12, 2018 Edition  
     The first ‘anchor’ store to open at the Southern Park Mall, Sears, announced last week it will close its doors.
      Sears first opened in 1969 when Southern Park was developed by the Edward J. DeBartolo Corp. Anchor stores were crucial to the development of the mall concept, and at Southern Park, Strouss’ and JCPenney Co. were the other original anchors.
      Announcement of Sears closing cast doubts on the future of retail at Southern Park, despite an announcement by W. P. Glimcher, current operator of the mall, that the some 175,600 square feet of space, will be redeveloped. Overall, Southern Park had some 1.198 million square feet of retail space.
      Sears Holding (Nasdaq:SHLD) is a retailer with more than 1,000 stores across the United States. The company has struggled operationally over the last few years, with a significant reduction in sales prompting the closure of several stores, in light of what has been called a “staggering drop” of some 18 per cent in sales over the last few years.
      “We have been strategically and aggressively evaluating our store space and productivity, and have accelerated the closing of unprofitable stores as previously announced. This is not an effort solely aimed at cost savings but is part of a strategy we have been executing against as many of our larger stores are too big for our needs. Having fewer stores – and the right format – will help us bring Sears Holdings to a size and place to meet the realities of the changing retail world,” a statement from Sears Holdings said on the closing of its store in the Southern Park Mall.
      WP Glimcher, current operator of Southern Park, countered the closing with the following announcement:
      “Washington Prime Group Inc. announced its most recent redevelopment effort, a multi-million dollar project anchored by the addition of diversified tenants at Southern Park Mall, a Tier One asset...
      “The company is in discussions with new tenants, which will be announced in the future, for the high visibility anchor space currently occupied by Sears. The company proactively negotiated an early termination of the lease to gain control of the real estate and commence redevelopment efforts.”
      According to Lou Conforti, CEO and director at Glimcher, “The redevelopment opportunity at Southern Park Mall further illustrates our mandate to diversify tenancy and establish this asset as the dominant town center within the Youngstown Metropolitan Statistical Area. The 550,000 residents which comprise this [area] deserve differentiated retail, dining, entertainment and services, and it is our objective to continue to provide them with the established tenancy they expect, as well as new and exciting offerings, the unexpected.”
      Additional details on the redevelopment project will be announced in the future, Glimcher said.
      Brian Gabbert, general manager of Southern Park Mall looked to the future, saying “We are excited for the opportunity to welcome new tenants to Southern Park Mall. Our redevelopment efforts demonstrate our commitment to the Boardman community and greater Youngstown area. We remain focused on providing our guests with an increasingly enjoyable environment to shop, dine and spend time together.”
      Sears at Southern Park Mall will close its doors by mid-July. About 120 business operate at Southern Park.
      The Southern Park Mall is valued at some $50 million and generates annual property taxes of some $1.5 million, according to the Mahoning County Auditor’s Office.
      Some suggest, in light of the closing, that the ‘Sears’ portion of the mall will be razed, possibly this fall, and then redeveloped next year.
  LEGAL NOTICE  
  April 12, 2018 Edition  
     LEGAL NOTICE
      The Boardman Township Zoning Commission will conduct a Public Hearing on the following amendment to the Boardman Township Zoning Resolution and Township Zoning Map on Tuesday, April 24, 2018 at 5:30 PM, at the Boardman Township Government Center, 8299 Market Street, Boardman, Ohio 44512. Text and maps of the request may be viewed at the Boardman Township Zoning Office, 8299 Market Street, Boardman, Ohio 44512 Monday through Friday, between the hours of 8:00 AM and 4:00 PM, until time of hearing.
      Following the recommendation of the Zoning Commission, the proposed amendment will be referred to the Board of Trustees for final determination.
      AMENDMENT A-2018-09
      Pursuant to Article XVI, Section F, Part a, Number 1 of the Boardman Township Zoning Resolution, as amended through May 29, 2012, concerning the initiation of amendments to the Township Zoning Resolution, the Board of Trustees of Boardman Township find it necessary to initiate hearings to amend the Boardman Township Zoning Resolution and Township zoning Map to reclassify and rezone the following 154 parcels of real property from Residential R-2 Districts to Residential R-1 Districts:
      43 Parcels along Amberwood Trail
      12 Parcels along Chestnut Lane
      13 Parcels along Crimson Trail
      12 Parcels along Silver Meadow Lane
      1 Parcel on Saddlebrook Drive
      5 Parcels on South Ave
      9 Parcels along Walnut Street
      59 Parcels along Wood Avenue
      All properties are located in Boardman Township, Mahoning County, State of Ohio.
      Peter W. Lymber, Chairman
      Boardman Township Zoning Commission
      Krista Beniston, AICP,
      Director of Zoning and Development
  LEGAL NOTICE  
  April 12, 2018 Edition  
     LEGAL NOTICE
      The Boardman Township Zoning Commission will conduct a Public Hearing on the following amendment to the Boardman Township Zoning Resolution and Township Zoning Map on Tuesday, April 24, 2018 at 5:30 PM, at the Boardman Township Government Center, 8299 Market Street, Boardman, Ohio 44512. Text and maps of the request may be viewed at the Boardman Township Zoning Office, 8299 Market Street, Boardman, Ohio 44512 Monday through Friday, between the hours of 8:00 AM and 4:00 PM, until time of hearing.
      Following the recommendation of the Zoning Commission, the proposed amendment will be referred to the Board of Trustees for final determination.
      AMENDMENT A-2018-08
      Pursuant to Article XVI, Section F, Part a, Number 1 of the Boardman Township Zoning Resolution, as amended through May 29, 2012, concerning the initiation of amendments to the Township Zoning Resolution, the Board of Trustees of Boardman Township find it necessary to initiate hearings to amend the Boardman Township Zoning Resolution and Township zoning Map to reclassify and rezone the following 229 parcels of real property from Residential R-2 Districts to Residential R-1 Districts:
      64 Parcels along Baymar Drive
      11 Parcels along Hopkins Road
      8 Parcels along Lieskin Lane
      15 Parcels along Loma Vista Drive
      12 Parcels on Lucerne Lane
      8 Parcels on Mary Anne Lane
      4 Parcels on Palmetto Drive
      28 Parcels along South Schenley Avenue
      14 Parcels along Shelbourne Drive
      20 Parcels along Straley Lane
      16 Parcels along Traymore Drive
      26 Parcels along Zander Drive
      All properties are located in Boardman Township, Mahoning County, State of Ohio.
      Peter W. Lymber, Chairman
      Boardman Township Zoning Commission
      Krista Beniston, AICP,
      Director of Zoning and Development
  Custodian Position - Part Time  
  April 12, 2018 Edition  
     CUSTODIAN POSTION – PART-TIME
      Boardman Township, Mahoning County, 8299 Market Street, Boardman, OH 44512 is now accepting applications for a Part-Time Custodian. For a list of qualifications and position description, please visit www.BoardmanTownship.com under Administration – Employment. This is an AFSCME union position, with pay starting at $9.77 per hour. Applications and position description are also available at the Boardman Township Government Center. Please mail applications to the address listed above to: ATTN: Stephanie Landers, Deputy Administrator. To email an application, please send to slanders@boardmantwp.com. Deadline for applications is 3:00 p.m. on Friday, April 13, 2018. For questions, please call Stephanie Landers at 330-726-4177, ext. 61818.
      Boardman Township Is
      An Equal Opportunity Employer
  NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING  
  April 12, 2018 Edition  
     NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING
      The Boardman Township Board of Appeals shall hold a Public Hearing on Tuesday, April 24, 2018 at 7:00 PM at the Boardman Township Government Center, 8299 Market Street, Boardman Township, Ohio 44512, for consideration of the following cases:
      APPEAL CASE AC-2018-05
      Kenneth & Ann Feaster, 518 Deer Run Dr., Boardman, Ohio 44512, property owner, requests a variance for the terms of the Boardman Township Zoning Resolution, effective May 29, 2012, Article V. Residence R-1 districts, Section B. Yard, Area and Height Provisions, in order to build an enclosed porch on the front of the house at a 38’ setback 12’ closer than the required 50’ setback. The property is further known as LOT 7 78.87 X 180.32 IRR WOODS AT HITCHCOCK PLAT 1, Parcel 29-102-0-204.00-0. Said property is zoned Residential R-1, in Boardman Township, Mahoning County, State of Ohio.
      APPEAL CASE AC-2018-06
      Stephen Berry, 7690 Market St., Boardman, Ohio 44512, requests a variance on behalf of client Logo Base, LLC, The Dog Stop, business owner, requests a variance for the terms of the Boardman Township Zoning Resolution, effective May 29, 2012, Article XV, Part Three, B. Parking Par. 2: provide 3% less green space than required. Par. 3: to install 4 landscape islands in lieu of one tree per 10 parking spaces required. Article XV, Part Three C. Landscaping/Lawn Requirements, Par. 2: maintain existing Market Street frontage of 12’ rather than the required 19’ and waive required planting requirements. Article XV, Part Three C. Landscaping/Lawn Requirements, Par 6: Install three eight foot high fenced in areas 2’ higher than the maximum 6’ allowed. Article XII, Section F: install fencing between the building line and street for the outdoor dog play area. The property is further known as LOT 6 209.37 X 450 REPL LT 6 AGNEW PL 1, Parcel 29-093-0-099.00-0. Said property is zoned Commercial, in Boardman Township, Mahoning County, State of Ohio.
      APPEAL CASE AC-2018-07
      Petitti Garden Centers, 5509 South Ave., Boardman, Ohio 44512, property owner, requests a variance for the terms of the Boardman Township Zoning Resolution, effective May 29, 2012, Article XII Exceptions and Special Provisions, F. Fencing that states “No fence, wall or hedge shall be permitted between the front building line and the street in any business, commercial or industrial district.”, in order to erect a 6’ fence in the front of the property. The property is further known as LOT 1 256.12 X 837.29 IRR J J CIARNIELLO PL 1, Parcel 29-020-0-006.00-0. Said property is zoned Commercial, in Boardman Township, Mahoning County, State of Ohio.
      APPEAL CASE AC-2018-08
      Donald Miller, 4033 Windsor Rd. Boardman, Ohio 44512, property owner, requests a variance for the terms of the Boardman Township Zoning Resolution, effective May 29, 2012, Article V. Residence R-1 districts, Section E. Fencing, in order to erect a fence 5’ from the side property line 11’ closer than the required 16’ setback for corner properties. The property is further known as LOT 220 70 X 150 ALBURN HEIRS PLAT 3, Parcel 29-061-0-218.00-0. Said property is zoned Residential R-1, in Boardman Township, Mahoning County, State of Ohio.
      Text and maps of the request may be viewed at the Boardman Township Zoning Office, 8299 Market Street, Boardman, Ohio 44512 Monday through Friday, between the hours of 8:00 AM and 4:00 PM, until time of hearing.
      Atty. John F. Shultz, Chairman
      Boardman Township Board of Appeals
      Krista D. Beniston, AICP,
      Director of Zoning and Development
  Sen. Schiavoni ‘We Need A Governor Who Will Go To Columbus And Work!’  
  Boardman Civic Association Holds Primary Elections Forum:   March 22, 2018 Edition  
     The Boardman Civic Association hosted a candidates and issues forum on Monday night at the Lariccia Family Community Center in Boardman Park. About 50 persons attended the forum where Democratic Party candidate for Ohio Governor, Boardman-native State Sen. Joe Schiavoni delivered opening remarks.
      Schiavoni will be on the May primary ballot in the Dem camp along with former federal consumer watchdog Richard Cordray, former U.S. Rep. Dennis Kucinich and former Ohio Supreme Court Justice William O’Neill.
      Cordray, Kucinich and O’Neill were not invited to the forum.
      In brief remarks, Schiavoni, who has served in the Ohio Senate for a decade, said the state needs a governor who will go down to Columbus “and work.”
      He said that education issues, including “proper funding” need particular attention, noting that more often than not, charter school’s are for-profit enterprises where the goal is to make money.
      “Their is not education, and I’ve seen a lot of that with charter schools,” Schiavoni said.
      The candidate said Democrats “need someone to make a change for the better. If we don’t [put someone on the ballot] who is different, we will lose to [Republicans] Mike DeWine and John Husted in November.”
      Schiavoni, seen by many as a long-shot to win the governorship, said he has been traveling about the state “talking to communities like human beings...That is grassroots.”
      School & Township Levies
      The loss of some $1 million in property taxes due to St. Elizabeth Hospital at McClurg Rd. and Market St. was called “the spark” that ignited Boardman Local Schools big, 5.8-mil additional tax levy on the May ballot, Supt. Tim Saxton told the Civic Association forum.
      The hospital went to court and won a declaration as a non-profit enterprise, therefore eliminating a duty to pay property taxes
      Saxton also said the local school district has lost some $25 million since 2012 in state subsidies.
      “Despite this, we have stayed lean and went for six years without an increase in the base salary,” the school chieftan said, adding the teaching staff has been reduced by four positions due to attrition. [Note: Last year the school board approved a three year wage pact with its certificated and non-certificated staff. The agreements provide pay increase over the next three years].
      Saxton said persons attending a State of the Schools assembly would learn what could happen if the 5.8-mil levy fails in May.
      Speaking in behalf of the Boardman Township 2.9-mil levy was Administrator Jason Loree.
      He noted the measure on the ballot will replace 3.2-mil levy that generated $1.2 million a year.
      If approved in May, the 2.9-mil issue will raise about $2.7 million annually for current expenses.
      “We have done a pretty good job with the taxpayer’s money,” Loree said.
      59th District State Representative
      Two Democrats seeking the state representative seat being vacated by Rep. John Boccieri spoke at the forum. They were Boardman Trustee Larry Moliterno and Poland Township Trustee Eric Ungaro.
      Moliterno noted that Boardman Township has taken the lead in “community collaboration,” saying “How do we take these successes to the next level? We have to come together.”
      He stressed that “we can do better, we have to come together” on issues like education, senior abuse and the opioid problem.
      “If we come together, we can make positive changes,” Moliterno said.
      Ungaro told those at the forum he is a special education teacher and has been a football coach for 28 years and a union member for 28 years, noting he was “sick of unions getting beat up.”
      “I am who I am,” Ungaro said.
      Other Races
      Also speaking on Monday night were Republican Kathleen Bartlett and Democrat Dave D’Apolito, candidates for the Seventh District Court of Appeals.
      Bartlett said she has served as a magistrate in Columbiana County for 12 years.
      D’Apolito said he has served ‘on the bench for 20 years, beginning in 1997 as a magistrate and since 2000 as a county court judge.
      Two candidates for judge in the Mahoning County Common Pleas Court spoke, Dan Dascenzo and Anthony Donofrio.
      Dascenzo said he has served the common pleas court as a magistrate since 2008 and has presided over some 10,000 cases, both civil and criminal.
      “I am aware of the profound impact our decisions have on people,” Dascenzo said.
      Donofrio, who has been an attorney for 27 years, said he served as an in-house counsel for B.J. Alan for six and a half years, and also served as a deputy law director for the city of Youngstown.
      Dascenzo said he favored prevention focused programs to address the opioid crisis, while Donofrio said that “treatment can be used to solve the drug crisis.”
      In The Republican Camp
      Introduced to the forum were David Johnson, incumbent Republican state committeeman and current Columbiana County GOP chairman; and Monica Robb Blasdel, seeking to unseat Tracey Winbush on the Republican state central committee.
      Blasdel’s appearance on the ballot to unseat Winbush has drawn comment from inside the local Republican party.
      Her opponents say there are a host of issues swirling around Winbush.
      Critics say she is operating a talk radio show out of the same address as the local Republican party, at 8381 Market St.; and she abandoned her former broadcasting headquarters in downtown Youngstown, leaving a trail of unpaid bills.
      While she had been vociferous in support of building a wall on the southern border of the United States, selling ‘bricks’ and campaign materials at last year’s Canfield Fair, Winbush appeared to ‘flip’ on that stance by offering support to Amer Ali in his failed efforts to prevent his deportation from Youngstown back to his homeland of Jordan earlier this year.
      Blasdel is the daughter of recently-elected Seventh District Court of Appeals Judge Carol Robb, and is supported in her efforts to unseat Winbush by Mr. Johnson.
      With Johnson supporting Blasdel, Mahoning County Republican Chairman Mark Munroe is now running against Johnson for the GOP state committeeman seat.
  Glenn Patton Promoted To Sergeant At BPD  
  March 15, 2018 Edition  
Sgt. Glenn Patton
      Meeting on Monday night, Boardman Trustees promoted longtime police officer Glenn Patton to the rank of sergeant.
      Patton’s career with the Boardman Police Department began in Jan., 1997 when he was hired as a dispatcher. In May, 1999, he was hired as a Boardman police officer.
      Currently a detective, Sgt. Patton will be reassigned to the Patrol Division.
      Among commendations he has received during his career are in 2014 when he was honored by the Mahoning Valley Chiefs of Police Association for investigative excellence, and in 2015 when he was named Investigator of the Year by the Ohio Auto Theft Investigators Association. He was also recognized by the Ohio Organized Crime Commission for investigative excellence.
      Sgt. Patton is active in the Boy Scouts of America as a merit badge counselor and he is also a committee member Troop 60.
      Sgt. Patton and his wife, Tina, are the parents of three children, Aaron, Brianna and Devin, who are all graduates of Boardman High School.
  LEGAL NOTICE  
  March 15, 2018 Edition  
     LEGAL NOTICE
      The Boardman Township Zoning Commission will conduct a Public Hearing on the following amendment to the Boardman Township Zoning Resolution and Township Zoning Map on Tuesday, March 27, 2017 at 5:30 PM, at the Boardman Township Government Center, 8299 Market Street, Boardman, Ohio 44512. Text and maps of the request may be viewed at the Boardman Township Zoning Office, 8299 Market Street, Boardman, Ohio 44512 Monday through Friday, between the hours of 8:00 AM and 4:00 PM, until time of hearing.
      Following the recommendation of the Zoning Commission, the proposed amendment will be referred to the Board of Trustees for final determination.
      AMENDMENT A-2018-07
      RonJon Investments, 100 Commerce Circle, Columbiana, Ohio 44408, on behalf of Olga A. Maruskin, property owner, requests a zone change for 7901 Market Street, Boardman, Ohio 44512, from the terms of the Boardman Township Zoning Resolution, effective May 29, 2012, in order to extend the Commercial portion of the property to perform commercial activities on a larger portion of the property. The property is further known as GL 12 DIV 3, Parcel 29-033-0-024.00-0. Said property is currently zoned Commercial, R-2 Residential, and Industrial, located in Boardman Township, Mahoning County, State of Ohio.
      Peter W. Lymber, Chairman
      Boardman Township Zoning Commission
      Krista Beniston, AICP,
      Director of Zoning and Development
  LEGAL NOTICE  
  March 15, 2018 Edition  
     LEGAL NOTICE
      The Boardman Township Zoning Commission will conduct a Public Hearing on the following amendment to the Boardman Township Zoning Resolution and Township Zoning Map on Tuesday, March 27, 2017 at 5:30 PM, at the Boardman Township Government Center, 8299 Market Street, Boardman, Ohio 44512. Text and maps of the request may be viewed at the Boardman Township Zoning Office, 8299 Market Street, Boardman, Ohio 44512 Monday through Friday, between the hours of 8:00 AM and 4:00 PM, until time of hearing.
      Following the recommendation of the Zoning Commission, the proposed amendment will be referred to the Board of Trustees for final determination.
      AMENDMENT A-2018-06
      Pursuant to Article XVI, Section F, Part a, Number 1 of the Boardman Township Zoning Resolution, as amended through May 29, 2012, concerning the initiation of amendments to the Township Zoning Resolution, the Board of Trustees of Boardman Township find it necessary to initiate hearings to amend the Boardman Township Zoning Resolution and Township zoning Map to reclassify and rezone the following 181 parcels of real property from Residential R-2 Districts to Residential R-1 Districts:
      10 Parcels along Salinas Trail
      45 Parcels along Sierra Madre Trail
      57 Parcel along Oregon Trail
      1 Parcels along Santa Fe Trail
      68 Parcels on Glenwood Avenue
      All properties are located in Boardman Township, Mahoning County, State of Ohio.
      Peter W. Lymber, Chairman
      Boardman Township Zoning Commission
      Krista Beniston, AICP,
      Director of Zoning and Development
  LEGAL NOTICE  
  March 15, 2018 Edition  
     LEGAL NOTICE
      The Boardman Township Zoning Commission will conduct a Public Hearing on the following amendment to the Boardman Township Zoning Resolution and Township Zoning Map on Tuesday, March 27, 2018 at 5:30 PM, at the Boardman Township Government Center, 8299 Market Street, Boardman, Ohio 44512. Text and maps of the request may be viewed at the Boardman Township Zoning Office, 8299 Market Street, Boardman, Ohio 44512 Monday through Friday, between the hours of 8:00 AM and 4:00 PM, until time of hearing.
      Following the recommendation of the Zoning Commission, the proposed amendment will be referred to the Board of Trustees for final determination.
      AMENDMENT A-2018-05
      Pursuant to Article XVI, Section F, Part a, Number 1 of the Boardman Township Zoning Resolution, as amended through May 29, 2012, concerning the initiation of amendments to the Township Zoning Resolution, the Board of Trustees of Boardman Township find it necessary to initiate hearings to amend the Boardman Township Zoning Resolution and Township zoning Map to reclassify and rezone the following 151 parcels of real property from Residential R-2 Districts to Residential R-1 Districts:
      8 Parcels along Melbourne Avenue
      11 Parcels along Glenwood Avenue
      65 Parcel along Brookfield Avenue
      63 Parcels along Ewing Road
      3 Parcels on Wildwood Drive
      1 on Northlawn Avenue
      All properties are located in Boardman Township, Mahoning County, State of Ohio.
      Peter W. Lymber, Chairman
      Boardman Township Zoning Commission
      Krista Beniston, AICP,
      Director of Zoning and Development
  LEGAL NOTICE  
  March 15, 2018 Edition  
     NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING
      The Boardman Township Board of Appeals shall hold a Public Hearing on Tuesday, March 27, 2018 at 7:00 PM at the Boardman Township Government Center, 8299 Market Street, Boardman Township, Ohio 44512, for consideration of the following cases:
      APPEAL CASE AC-2018-02
      Matt Rarick, 201 Boardman Canfield Rd., Boardman, Ohio 44512, on behalf of SAVON ENTERPRISES LLC, property owner, requests a variance for the terms of the Boardman Township Zoning Resolution, effective May 29, 2012, Article XVI Administration, I. Conditional Use Regulations, in order to run a haunted house and escape room. The property is further known as LOT 396 75.40 X 188 IRR ODOT SPLIT TRANSFER, Parcel 29-066-0-044.00-0. Said property is zoned Commercial, in Boardman Township, Mahoning County, State of Ohio.
      APPEAL CASE AC-2018-03
      Crystal Henderson, 166 Beechwood Dr., Boardman, Ohio 44512, property owner, requests a variance for the terms of the Boardman Township Zoning Resolution, effective May 29, 2012, Article V. Residence R-1 districts, Section E. Fencing, in order to erect a section of fencing 10’ high, 4’ higher than 6’ maximum. The property is further known as LOT 445 40 X 135 UTOPIA PLAT, Parcel 29-001-0-134.00-0. Said property is zoned Residential R-1, in Boardman Township, Mahoning County, State of Ohio.
      APPEAL CASE AC-2018-04
      All Star Auto Group LLC., 5653 Market St., Boardman, Ohio 44512, property owner, requests a variance for the terms of the Boardman Township Zoning Resolution, effective May 29, 2012, Article XVI Administration, I. Conditional Use Regulations in order to sell cars on the property. The property is further known as LOT 33 150 X 110 REP 33-34-35 RES PK BUS P, Parcel 29-003-0-196.00-0. Said property is zoned Commercial, in Boardman Township, Mahoning County, State of Ohio.
      Text and maps of the request may be viewed at the Boardman Township Zoning Office, 8299 Market Street, Boardman, Ohio 44512 Monday through Friday, between the hours of 8:00 AM and 4:00 PM, until time of hearing.
      Atty. John F. Shultz, Chairman
      Boardman Township Board of Appeals
      Krista D. Beniston, AICP,
      Director of Zoning and Development
  BOARDMAN TOWNSHIP ROAD MAINTENANCE  
  When Reporting Pothole Complaints Make Sure You Contact The Proper Agency:   March 15, 2018 Edition  
     State Highways In Boardman
      Interstate 680 • Rt. 224 (Boardman-Canfield Rd. & Boardman-Poland Rd.) • Market St. • Arden Blvd. • Lockwood Blvd. • Midlothian Blvd.
      To Register Complaints About Potholes On These State Roads Contact The Ohio Department Of Transportation, 2088 S. Arlington Rd., Akron, Oh.
      John Picuri, Deputy Director, 330-786-3100
     
      County Highways In Boardman
      East Parkside Dr. • Glenwood Ave. • Hitchcock Rd. • Hopkins Rd. • Indianola Rd. • Lake Park Rd.
      • Lockwood Blvd. • Mathews Rd. • McClurg Rd.
      • Mill Creek Dr. • Newport Square • Schenley Ave.
      • Sheban Dr. • Shields Rd. • Simon Rd. • South Ave. • Southern Blvd. • Tippecanoe Rd. • Truesdale Rd. • Walker Mill Rd. • West Blvd.
      To Register Complaints About Potholes On These County Roads Contact The
      Mahoning County Engineers Office, 940 Bears Den Rd., Youngstown, Oh.
      Patrick Ginnetti, County Engineer, 330-799-1581
     
     
  500 People Expected To Attend Community Engagement Meeting For 5.9-Mil School Tax Levy On May Ballot  
  March 8, 2018 Edition  
     The Boardman Local School Board will host a “Community Engagement’ meeting Tues., Mar. 20 in the high school cafeteria, opening at 6:30 p.m.
      Jeff Barone, school board president, said upwards of 500 persons could attend the meeting that was called in light of a 5.9-mil additional tax levy that will be on the May 8 primary ballot.
      Supt. Tim Saxton said the meeting will include a presentation on the “State of the Boardman Local Schools,” and then lead to discussion on the proposed tax levy.
      The Friends of Boardman Schools has contacted a consultant, William Corky O’Callaghan, to assist with the levy campaign, Barone said. O’Callaghan says he has spent 25 years helping educational leaders utilize the power of community engagement to build public support to address the challenges and opportunities impacting their schools and community, according to his web site.
      Among the financial issues facing the school board is the loss of over $10 million in state subsidies, as well as a loss of property taxes due to St. Elizabeth Hospital being declared as “non-profit,” Barone said.
      In January, Supt. Saxton said despite the loss of state subsidies, as well property taxes from St. Elizabeth Hospital, the system would still have a carryover at the end of the year, but it would be reduced from approximately $8 million down to $5 million.
      “We are currently spending funds from our savings. Without additional funding, we will be out of money by the middle of fiscal year 2019, Treasurer Nick Ciarniello said.
      Barone said if the 5.9-mil issue fails in May, the school board “will have to make changes,” some of which are already happening, like cutbacks in staffing through attrition.
      Some considerations will be given to additional cutbacks, if the levy fails, perhaps reducing staff between eight to a dozen teaching positions, an increased cost for participation in athletic programs, and possibly the elimination of a language class (French), Barone said.
      If approved, the 5.9-mil levy would generate about $4.9 million annually over a ten year period.
      If the levy passes in May, Ciarniello said “As currently presented the Boardman Local School District will have a surplus from 2020-2022.
      “After that, we will be slightly deficit spending from 2023-2025, which we have plans to reduce to $0 for each year by continuing to tighten our belt,” the treasurer said, adding “Lastly in 2026-2028 is a projected large deficit. The large deficit will need to be absorbed by the surplus generated in the years 2020-2022. This is how the school will survive on this new levy for the next 10 years until the year 2028.”
      Members of the Boardman Local School Levy Committee are Bill Amendol, Jeff Barone, Linda Beichner (co-chair), Jared Cardillo, Nick Ciarniello, Vickie Davis, Anissa Kalbasky, Phil Landers, Frank Lazzeri (treasurer), Sandy Manley, Jim Ohle, Dave Pavlansky, Amy Radinovic, Tanna Sebrell, Rick Sebrell, Tim Saxton, Patrick Spearman (co-chair), and Robyn Triveri.
      The Friends of Boardman Local Schools is a political action committee whose current treasurer is former Boardman Local School Supt. Frank Lazzeri; and whose assistant treasurer is former Middle School Principal Ed Lugibihl.
  Linking Silicon Valley With Mahoning Valley  
  by BY RO KHANNA & JED YORK   March 8, 2018 Edition  
Jed York
     These days stories that describe the ways in which America’s heartland is divided from its coasts are a dime a dozen. Growing up in manufacturing towns (Jed from Youngstown, Oh. and Ro from Bucks County, Pa.) and now living in the Silicon Valley, we’ve seen some of those differences. But, having met a new generation of businesses and entrepreneurs, we’re witnessing a bridge between the two: the evolution of additive manufacturing. Combining the DNA of a manufacturing town with a digital economy, this new industry shows policy makers and business leaders how we might start to bring our country together.
      On Sept. 19, 1977, Youngstown, Ohio experienced a foundational shift in its economy. Before the fateful ‘Black Monday,’ as many still call it, steel manufacturing paid living wages for a generation of adults, carrying them into the middle class. But on that day, one of the biggest steel producers, Youngstown Sheet & Tube, shut down and laid off thousands of employees. A town that was once 170,000 would see 40,000 jobs gone in the same decade. For many, remnants of that dark reality persist. In the last thirty years, median household income has remained flat at around $24,000 and the town has struggled to repopulate.
      In 1995, with the help of seed funding provided by the United States government, the Youngstown Business Incubator (YBI) was established. Their mission was not to bring back traditional steel mills, but to focus on companies innovating in the additive manufacturing space. As opposed to traditional manufacturing, additive manufacturing relies on layer-over-layer design and leverages information technology. This new kind of manufacturing reduces costs for companies like GE that build plane parts and helps biomedical manufacturers produce more precise biomedical devices. These kinds of companies tend to heavily populate the larger Mahoning Valley Region, in which Youngstown is located.
      So it is no surprise that today America Makes, the leading 3D printing institute in the nation and perhaps world, is based in Youngstown. Portfolio companies coming from YBI and America Makes have generated nearly $39M revenue and gainfully employed 1,842 people. In 2015, YBI was recognized as the number one high impact incubation program in North America.
      According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, there are currently 500,000 unfilled tech jobs in advanced manufacturing. A BCG report suggests that there will be an additional 900,000 in this sector due to the continual transformation of our economy. Many won’t require a traditional degree. Rather, the new jobs will require “adaptive skills,” including ones that require access to online technical information, ranging from controlling system queries to resolving issues in an automated diagnosis. “Adaptive skills?” What better term is there for a resilient Youngstown population with a burgeoning appetite for diversification.
      At a recent roundtable of venture capitalists and companies in Youngstown hosted by Congressman Tim Ryan (Oh.-13), his friend shared an interesting story. A father and his daughter were talking about the future of Youngstown. The father remarked, with an understandable cynicism, that decades of flat wages and job loss would not change overnight because of a handful of new companies. The daughter was more optimistic, saying that during her lifetime the city was steadily getting better, that the number of restaurants had jumped from a few to 17. Her father wasn’t wrong, but neither was she. There’s an undeniable optimism in young folks, whether in Youngstown, Oh. or San Jose, Calif. who are hungry for new opportunities. The scars of deindustrialization are not fresh in their minds. These kids are hopeful about their economic future.
      Let’s take steps to justify their optimism. We believe the government needs to aggressively expand our funding for public/private partnerships, and we need to double down on training a new workforce for the jobs of tomorrow. Companies and capital should reach young people in cities and small towns across America. They are ready for us.
      Ro Khanna is the Congressman for California’s 17th district, including Silicon Valley.
      Follow him on Twitter at @RoKhanna
      Jed York is the CEO of the 49ers football team. Follow him on Twitter at @Jed York
  Glenwood Jr High School Receives A Purple Star  
  March 8, 2018 Edition  
     Among 44 Ohio schools to received the Purple Star designation for their commitment to serving military-connected students and families is Glenwood Jr. High School, State Superintendent of Public Instruction, Paolo DeMaria, announced
      Glenwood was recognized for various activities that honor military families and local veterans.
      “A supportive school environment can have a significant impact on our military-connected students, and we’re happy to see such a great interest in this designation by Ohio’s schools,” said DeMaria.
      On November 10, 2017, Glenwood Junior High hosted a student-led event inviting more than 50 local veterans from all branches of the military, as well as reservists who were friends or family members of students and staff. State Representative and Air Force Reserve LTC John Boccieri was a guest speaker for a school wide program that filled the gymnasium.
      While the Veterans Day Event was educational and inspiring, Glenwood has made great efforts to service military families every day. Counselors have identified students whose parents are active service members and provided them information and assistance. They are given information packets with opportunities for scholarships, grant money for camps and extracurriculars, tutoring support, and standardized test prep.
      “ My husband is in the military, and even for me, my eyes were opened,” said Glenwood Counselor Courtney Abruzzino. “For instance I had no idea there were free tutoring services, and scholarship money that could be used for children to participate in extracurricular activities. It’s extra help out there, for military families who sometimes find themselves overwhelmed.”
  Legendary Swim Coach Will Retire  
  February 22, 2018 Edition  
     Boardman High School Head Swim Coach, Terry O’Halloran, at left, will retire at the end of the current season. During his tenure, his teams have logged an overall mark of 597-249-8. While resigning as head coach, O’Halloran said he will apply to volunteer as an assistant swim coach next year. “I guess I just can’t get the smell of chlorinated water out of my system,” O’Halloran said.
  Kent State Exhibit Honors Memory Of Sandra Scheuer  
  Shot And Killed May 4,1970 By The Ohio Natonal Guard:   February 15, 2018 Edition  
Sandy Scheuer
     Sandy Scheuer, daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Martin Scheuer, of Ridgewood Estates, Boardman, was on her way to class on May 4, 1970, when she was shot and killed by Ohio National Guardsmen who were responding to protests against the Vietnam War at Kent State University. She was a junior honors student, a speech therapy major and a member of Alpha Xi Delta sorority.
      Ms. Scheuer was not a participant in the protests when she was shot in the neck with an M-1 rifle from a distance of 130 yards while walking between classes. The bullet severed her jugular vein and she died within five or six minutes from loss of blood.
      Her death came on the wedding anniversary of her parents.
      Outside of the classroom, she was an alumna of Boardman High School and an active member of the local Jewish community. Now, almost 50 years later, Ms. Scheuer’s life will be the subject of a new exhibit at the May 4 Visitors Center at Kent State.
      On Mon., Feb. 12, the Visitors Center on the campus of Kent State, opened its newest exhibition, a special tribute to the life of Ms. Scheuer. The exhibition, titled “Sandy’s Scrapbook,” is based on the actual scrapbook that Ms. Scheuer kept while at Kent State and will feature items and memories provided by her family and her sister, Audrey.
      Mindy Farmer is the director of the May 4 Visitors Center at Kent State, and she describes the exhibit as a tribute to a young person who lost her life too soon.
      “In researching the exhibit, we found several of Sandy’s personal scrapbooks,” Farmer said. “They were full of candid photos, letters from friends, concert tickets and mementos from major life events. We soon realized that the best way to honor Sandy was to let her curate her own life. The colors, flowers and many of the images come directly from the scrapbook she kept while here at Kent State. And, as much as possible, we have left her original labels.”
      “Sandy’s Scrapbook” is the first in what the May 4 Visitors Center hopes will be a series of four exhibitions in tribute to the four lives lost on May 4, 1970---Allison Krause, Jeffrey Miller, Scheuer and William Schroeder. The purpose behind these exhibits is to focus not just on the deaths of these students, but on the lives that they lived and the people that they were.
      “Too often, Sandy, Bill, Allison and Jeff are only known for their tragic deaths,” Farmer said. “We want to show that they lived interesting and full lives. And, in many ways, their stories represent the divides of the era. Krause and Miller were activists. Schroeder was a member of the ROTC, struggling with the meaning of the Vietnam War. Scheuer was an honors student who was walking to class, not at all caught-up in the protests and demonstrations. They were all siblings, children of loving parents and students of Kent State University. They were people with enormous potential, taken way too soon. That is what we hope to convey.”
      For more information about the May 4, 1970, visit www.kent.edu/may4.
     
  ‘Green Infrastructure’ Could Enhance Community Safety And The Quality Of Life  
  Forums Predecessor To Zoning Changes:   February 15, 2018 Edition  
     The Boardman Township Planning/Zoning Department held its second, of two forums last week designed to provide community input for a comprehensive plan, “Building a Better Boardman,” at the Lariccia Family Center in Boardman Park. About 125 persons attended the forums, including elected officials and high school students.
      “Feedback and input generated at the forums will help to create priorities in a comprehensive plan and future projects,” Krista Beniston, director of planning/zoning said.
      The comprehensive plan, to serve as a guide for decisions about the future of the community, including goals and a vision, will be developed sometime this summer, Beniston said.
      Additional information from the public for a comprehensive plan is also being generated through an on-line survey currently being conducted by the planning/zoning department. About 375 responses to the survey have been returned, Beniston said.
      In conjunction with the public forums and on-line survey, the township’s planning/zoning department is also studying updating the zoning codes “to reflect community vision and priorities,” as well as an ‘Active Transportation Plan’ and a ‘Market Street Corridor Plan.”
      Among the concepts featured at the forums was the creation of ‘green infrastructures’ as a method of enhancing community safety and the quality of life.
      “It means planting trees and restoring wetlands, rather than build a costly, new water treatment plant,” Beniston claimed.
      According to data collected at the forums, concern was expressed about the northern end of Boardman Township, especially from the intersection of Market St. and Shields Rd., north to Midlothian Blvd., at the border of the township with the city of Youngstown. That area of the township, according to data collected from census tracts, shows the highest rates of poverty (14 per cent to 22 per cent residents in the area), as well as most the number of vacant homes, and declining numbers of owner-occupied residences. Beniston said the number of vacant homes in the township, 7 per cent, “is very low.”
      A green infrastructure could include the creation of ‘road diets’ and ‘pedestrian refuge islands’ along Market St. in the northern end of the township.
      Such ‘diets’ could reduce the lanes of travel along Market St. by creating ‘islands’ of green space in the middle of the roadway. The concept has also been suggested along the northern end of Glenwood Ave.
      Currently, Boardman Township has no funding for such a project, that could qualify for grant monies.
      Beniston displayed several charts at the public meetings, including one entitled “Where are We Now?”
      That chart suggested Boardman Township is facing changing retail trends in a community where neighborhoods are divided by large roads and commercial areas, making it “difficult and dangerous to walk or bike.”
      Beniston said a ‘complete transportation network’ could see a Boardman Township as a “community where getting to work, meeting friends over dinner, or shopping, can be accomplished easily by foot, bike, transit or car, along beautiful and well-maintained roads that safety accommodate all users.”
      Trustee Larry Moliterno told those attending the forums the development of a community vision “is very important. We hope we can spark a new generation of ideas.”
      Township Trustees have been holding public meetings for the past two years that are geared towards reducing new construction of apartment complexes in the township.
      For example, during a Trustees’ meeting last week, 331 parcels of property around Ewing Rd. as well as just south of the Greater Boardman Plaza were rezoned by R-2 to R-1.
      “This will eliminate duplexes and apartments in the future,” Brad Calhoun, chairman of the Board of Trustees, said.
      Additionally, the township’s Planning/Zoning Department is developing a landlord registration program that will mandate all owners of apartments submit information on their units. That concept was approved two years ago, but brought opposition from one apartment complex owner, who took his concerns to the Ohio Supreme Court. The Court ruled late last year the township’s proposed landlord registration program was legal.
     
  REPORT SHOWS 1,241 DRUG OVERDOSES IN MAHONING COUNTY IN 2017; 104 DEATHS  
  At Least 183 Drug Overdoses In Boardman:   February 8, 2018 Edition  
     At least 104 persons died of drug overdoses in Mahoning County last year, according to an ‘Overdose Surveillance Report’ distributed by the Mahoning County Board of Health that was obtained by The Boardman News.
      The report also shows there were 1,241 visits to hospital emergency rooms last year for treatment of drug overdoses in Mahoning County, and that among all communities in the county, Boardman Township rates second in visits to an emergency room for drug overdoses, with 183 visits. The city of Youngstown leads the listing with a reported 547 drug overdoses in 2017.
      The report was prepared by Laura Bryer, prescription drug overdose coordinator, of the Mahoning County District Board of Health.
      “Mahoning County has been experiencing a drastic increase of drug overdoses and drug overdose deaths in the past few years,” Bryer said in the surveillance report, adding for the period 2010-2015 the county ranked seventh in the state of Ohio in the number of drug overdose deaths.
      In the past four years, according to Bryer’s report, drug overdose death in Mahoning County have been steadily on the rise.
      In 2014, 60 ‘OD’ deaths were reported in Mahoning County, and according to Bryers, the 104 deaths reported in 2017 does not include nine overdose death “that are unconfirmed and are currently being processed.”
      Whilte Youngstown and Boardman Township ranked one-two in reported drug overdose in Mahoning County in 2017, Austintown Township ranks third with a reported 129 overdoses.
      According to the Ohio Department of Health, more than 4000 people died of “unintentional drug overdoses” in the state in 2017, among the highest death rates of any state in the nation.
      A report prepared by the Center for Disease Control that was completed in Sept, 2017,suggests a “declining presence of heroin use,” as users/addicts are using more deadly fentanyl and carfentanil.
      The late Dr. Joseph Ohr, of the Mahoning County Coroner’s Office said early last year that “a unit of carfentanil is 100 times as potent as the same amount of fentanyl, 5,000 times as potent as a unit of heroin and 10,000 times as potent as a unit of morphine.”
      Boardman Township recorded its first drug overdose death of 2018 on Jan. 18, when 26-year-old John Baumgartner was found dead in the basement of his Grover Dr. home, a needle and burnt spoon found near his body. His father said Baumgartner had been addicted to opiates for at least five years.
      Upon his death, a post on Facebook said “Wow taken way too soon, the battle.... It’s people like John Baumgartner that battle...and don’t make it out. We need to put a stop to this. It’s not a epidemic, I consider it an apocalypse.”
      EMERGENCY HOSPITAL DRUG OVERDOSE VISITS IN 2017
      (Mahoning County)
      Berlin Center................1
      Campbell....................48
      Canfield.....................48
      Greenford.....................1
      Lake Milton.................19
      Lowellville..................18
      New Middletown...........5
      New Springfield............5
      North Jackson............13
      North Lima...................6
      Petersburg...................4
      Youngstown.............547
      Cornersburg.............105
      Boardman................183
      Poland.......................42
      Austintown...............129
      Sebring........................5
      Beloit............................3
      Damascus....................1
      SOURCE: Mahoning County
      District Board of Health
      Statistics Compiled By
      Zip Code
  Appeals Court Upholds 2016 Conviction Of Man Who Assaulted Two Women At 3948 Sunset Blvd.  
  February 8, 2018 Edition  
     Convicted Attacker Sought Judgement On Claims Of Ineffective Counsel, Insufficient Evidence, ‘Improper Sentencing Criteria’
      ALL REJECTED
      The Sept., 2016 conviction on charges of assault and menacing lodged against a 36-year-old man in the beating of two women on Sunset Blvd. had been upheld by the Seventh District Court of Appeals.
      Darrell Brown was convicted of assaulting 27-year-old Krystal Wolfe and her sister Celeste Wolfe following a series of incidents on July 31, 2016 at the home of Brown’s ex-girlfriend, 45-year-old Jeronica Wolfe.
      Mahoning County Common Pleas Judge R. Scott Krichbaum sentenced Brown to 9-1/2 years in jail, and Brown, through a court-appointed attorney, Michael Kivlighan, appealed the conviction claiming he had ineffective legal counsel, there was insufficient evidence to support his conviction on the charge of menacing, and his incarceration followed improper sentencing criteria.
      A decision rendered last month by Judge Cheryl Waite and concurred by Judge Mary DeGenaro, affirmed the judgement of the common pleas court.
      At trial, Brown was given a court-appointed attorney, Edward Hartwig.
      Hartwig told the trial court that Brown refused to cooperate with him.
      “This lack of communication was caused by [Brown], Judge Waite opined, noting “In some instances, the failure to communicate with counsel is nothing more than ‘stalling’ and playing games with the court.”
      According to court records, while before Judge Krichbaum, Brown sought to replace Atty. Hartwig.
      “He’s manipulating the process of this court...He is one of defiance and rejection of anything and everything, rather than listening. That is what it appears to be,” Judge Krichbaum said, adding “I am not going to grant him some other lawyer that he wouldn’t talk to either.”
      Pointing out that Celeste suffered a broken nose, lost consciousness and had a facial laceration when she was attacked by Brown, Judge Waite said that Brown’s claim of error on the conviction for menacing was meritless.
      Judge Waite, citing Brown’s lengthy criminal record, said his sentencing “was not contrary to law.”
      The judge noted Brown’s criminal record.
      “He has a 1999 juvenile adjudication for aggravated robbery, a 2000 attempted drug abuseconviction, a 2003 carrying a concealed weapon conviction, a 2006 misdemeanor obstructing conviction, a 2007 misdemeanor assault conviction, a 2008 felony for unauthorized use of a motor vehicle conviction, a 2013 weapons under disability conviction, and a 2016 fleeing and eluding conviction.
      “The (trial) court also indicated [Brown] is a convicted felon and was not permitted to have a firearm on his person. However, in committing the crime of menacing by stalking he used a gun; [Brown] admitted he had a gun and waved it in the street. The court further noted [Brown] has previously served time in the penitentiary but continues to commit crimes. Thus, the...finding is supported by the record and was not contrary to law,” Judge Waite said.
      On July 31, 2016, Boardman Police Department records show that Brown went to 3948 Sunset Blvd. twice. His first visit around 12:30 a.m., when Brown and Jeronica Wolfe were arguing over the use of a car and Celeste entered the room and told Brown to leave.
      While she was coming down a stairway, the record of the court shows that Brown “attacked” Celeste and then ran out of the house with the keys to her car.
      “[Brown] admitted to hitting Celeste four to eight times, but claims Celeste swung at him first.
      “The altercation resulted in Celeste sustaining injuries, she lost consciousness, her nose was broken, she had a facial laceration,” the court said.
      During the fight, the Boardman Police Department received an open-ended 9-1-1 call, where screaming and fighting was overheard in the background,.
      However, when police arrived at the residence on Sunset Blvd. the front door was found ajar and no one was home.
      Jeronica and Celeste later said they had ‘gone looking’ for Brown following the fight.
      About 8:30 that morning, the Boardman Police Department returned to the residence where they were told Jeronica’s other adult daughter, Krystal, was sleeping on the floor of the living room when she was awakened by Brown who was at a window saying, “Yo-yo-yo.”
      Jeronica and Krystal testified they called the police, while Brown used a key and tried to push his way into the home.
      A fight ensued between Brown and Krystal Wolfe that spilled out into the driveway and backyard.
      Krystal Wolfe told police she was punched in the face and she grabbed a ceramic pot and attempted to hit Brown, but missed and the pot fell onto the driveway, breaking into several pieces.
      “Krystal said that Brown grabbed one of the larger pieces and began swinging it back and forth in an attempt to cut her,” Ptl. Stephen Dubos reported, saying the Krystal had a cut below her right eye and her hands were cut.
      “[Brown admitted to hitting and kicking Krystal in the face during the altercation,” Judge Waite said, citing the record of the trial court.
      When the police arrived at the home, Brown had already fled. A short time later he was found by police when he exited a vacant home at 325 Hilton Ave., Youngstown, Oh, with his hands up.
      Brown’s initial court appearance was before Boardman Court Judge Joseph Houser, who gave Brown five days in jail for contempt of court “for statements he made to the court while walking away from the bench.”
      At trial, Judge Krichbaum admonished Brown for his behavior at Boardman Court.
      “When we’re in trial and I have a jury sitting here, any type of misconduct by you are any time, you blurting something out, you laughing, you shaking your head, you disagreeing, you showing anything but sitting her like a perfect gentleman is going to result in a contempt of court charge. So I want you to be aware of that. I’m not somebody to mess around with,” Judge Krichbaum said, noting the only reason for the admonition was because of Brown’s misconduct before Judge Houser.
      In affirming the Common Pleas court decision, Judge Waite said “the undisputed facts of this case are [Brown] punched Celeste multiple times, breaking her nose, lacerating her face and causing her to lose consciousness, [Brown] left the house and when Celeste and Jeronica found him a little while later, [Brown] waved a gun at them in the middle of Judson (a street on the south side of Youngstown) and told them he would kill them,” Judge Waite said, concluding “The conviction is affirmed.”
  Boardman Park Expands Disc Golf Course, Sets Tourney  
  February 8, 2018 Edition  
     Boardman Park announces the expansion of its Disc Golf course to 18-holes. An additional 9-holes is scheduled to be completed by late winter.
      The 9-holes will play through the wooded area of the park, located just east of the tennis courts. Each hole is densely wooded and provides water hazards and elevation changes, with two holes playing over McKay’s Run Creek. The natural environment not only provides players with an appreciation of the beauty of nature, but also provides a greater challenge than the family friendly front 9-holes. This will be the only disc golf course in Mahoning County to feature 9-holes through a heavily wooded natural area.
      The 1st annual Boardman Park Disc Golf Open on Sun., Mar. 25 in celebration of the expansion of park’s disc golf’s wooded nine holes.
      The tournament is hosted by Mahoning Valley Disc Golf Association (MVDGA). The will be two rounds of golf. Sign-in is at 8:00 a.m.; the first round starts at 9:00 a.m.; lunch break is from noon to 12:45 p.m. Round two starts at 1:00 p.m. Players will be divided into three divisions depending on skill level: Advanced, Intermediate, and Recreational.
      Starting at 3:00 p.m. there will be side games including a ‘Ring of Fire’ putting tournament, CTP throw off, and a long drive competition. Players will be able to register that morning for the tournament; however, MVDGA is asking the players to register in advance so they can properly prepare for the event. To register go to discgolfscene.com or comment on the MVDGA Facebook page. For more information, call Boardman Park (330)-726-8015
      The Board of Park Commissioners would like to express their appreciation to Justin Edwards, Shawn Golden, and the Boardman Community Foundation for their support of the Disc Golf course project.
     
  Tours Of Olde St. James Offered By Boardman Park  
  February 8, 2018 Edition  
     Boardman Park is offering tours of St. James Meeting House, Boardman’s most prominent historical landmark. This historic landmark was formerly known as St. James Episcopal Church, and was built in 1828 by Henry Mason Boardman, son of Elijah, founder of Boardman Township
      St. James was the first Episcopal Church in Ohio, and the first home of the oldest Episcopal parish in the Connecticut Western Reserve.
      St. James was originally located on eastside of Market St., near Boardman Center. In 1971 the area adjacent to St. James was rapidly becoming highly commercialized due to the development of the Southern Park Mall. The congregation of St. James decided to build a new church on Glenwood Avenue, and sold the property and St. James was deconsecrated.
      St. James was slated for demolition in 1972, to make room for additional development. Fortunately, through the efforts of Thomas C. and Miriam Masters, Fred and Phyllis Wilkie, the Boardman Historical Society, Fenton Meredith and the Rotary Club of Boardman, a community-wide effort was initiated to save St. James, and over $32,000, was raised in 30 days to have it relocated to Boardman Park. On Tues. January 11, 1972, the building was moved to the park and renamed St. James Meeting House.
      The Meeting House was entered in the National Register of Historic Places in 1979, by the Heritage Conservation and Recreation Service, United States Department of the Interior. The tour will take approximately 45 minutes and includes a power point presentation. Tours are available to civic groups, school classes, church groups, and other community organizations. Groups interested in touring this historic landmark may schedule a tour by calling the Park District office at 330-726-8107, Monday through Friday, from 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.
  7th Annual Sue Hernan Chili Cook-Off Set For Sun., Feb. 25 At Boardman Methodist  
  February 8, 2018 Edition  
     The 7th annual Sue Hernan Memorial Chili Cook-Off will be held Sun., Feb. 25, from 11:30 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. at Boardman United Methodist Church, 6809 Market St., in Fellowship Hall.
      The event is sponsored by the church’s Faith, Fun and Fellowship committee. It is one of the most successful chili competitions in the Mahoning Valley.
      Entry to the event is $8/adult and $2/children under the age of 10. The price includes a meal of hot dogs, sloppy joes, chips, dessert and a beverage.
      Attendees will also get to vote for their favorite chili.
      On Aug. 1, 2010 Sue Hernan passed away from a drowning accident at Berlin Lake. In life as in her death she was a true hero. She served as the chairperson of the missions committee at Boardman United Methodist church for many years. During her term she organized various fund-raising activities. Her chili cook-off was one of her biggest pet projects. For the past seven years the church has named this event in Sue’s honor.
      For more information or to enter the contest, contact the church office at (330) 758-4527, Doreen or Mark DeLisio at (330) 398-9773 / (330) 398-9938, or Don Hernan at (330) 559-9205.
  Valley Judge Appointed To The Ohio Supreme Court  
  February 1, 2018 Edition  
Judge Mary DeGenaro
     COLUMBUS---Gov. John R. Kasich has announced that he has selected Seventh District Court of Appeals Judge Mary DeGenaro to replace Ohio Supreme Court Justice William O’Neill, who has announced that he will retire on January 26. O’Neill has served on the Supreme Court of Ohio since 2013 and his term expires on January 1, 2019. DeGenaro must run in Nov., 2018 to retain the seat.
      “Judge DeGenaro is a distinguished legal thinker and I am proud to appoint her to the Supreme Court. She is an accomplished judge with a record of working constructively with colleagues and she has served with distinction as a visiting justice to the Supreme Court on several occasions. Her command of the law is strong and she brings a conservative philosophy to the court that is evident in her 17-year record on the appellate bench. Ohioans are fortunate to have committed judges like her and I am glad that her skills and ability will now be put to work on our state’s highest court,” said Kasich.
      DeGenaro, of Poland, Oh., is a graduate of the Cleveland-Marshall College of Law (1986), served 14 years in private practice before her election in 2000 as judge on the Seventh District Court of Appeals, based in Youngstown. She served as presiding judge on that court for the 2007-08 and 2013-14 terms and has sat by assignment on the Ohio Supreme Court and numerous appellate district courts. DeGenaro is vice president of the Ohio Women’s Bar Association and has served on the executive committee of the Ohio Judicial Conference since 2013. She has volunteered as a judge with the Ohio High School Mock Trial Competition since 2002 and collaborates with the Ohio Civility Consortium, designed to educate and promote civil discourse.
      Judge DeGenaro was first elected to the Seventh District Court of Appeals in 2000; prior to joining the court, she served on Poland Village Council. She also was an adjunct faculty member in YSU’s Political Science Department.
      In 2002-2003, Judge DeGenaro was appointed by former Chief Justice Thomas J. Moyer to serve as a member of the Voter Education & Public Funding Working Group to further the Chief Justice’s policy initiative Judicial Impartiality: The Next Step Forum, to address multiple issues involving judicial races and preserving the integrity of Ohio’s judiciary. This working group’s effort resulted in an annual voter’s guide for Ohio Supreme Court races prepared by the Ohio League of Women Voters.
      In 2005 Judge DeGenaro began her service on the OSBA Appellate Practice Specialty Certification Board as a founding member, which administers the specialty bar examination, and approves the applications of attorneys seeking and maintaining this certification in Ohio.
      Involved in a variety of community organizations, Judge DeGenaro’s current service includes the Board of Trustees of the Public Library of Youngstown and Mahoning County and the Mahoning Valley Historical Society. Her past service includes the External Advisory Committees for the Ohio Center for the Advancement of Women in Public Service at Cleveland State University, and Youngstown State University’s College of Liberal Arts and Social Sciences.
     
      PICTURED: Judge Mary DeGenaro speaking at a fund-raising event held at the Raupp Ave. home of C. R. Smith in 2011.
  Questions About Spring Planting?  
  Call Park Director at Boardman Township Park:   February 1, 2018 Edition  
     Spring is near and it is time to start planning landscape improvements. Boardman Park Executive Director Dan Slagle can provide free horticulture advice, tips and resources.
      “Property owners thinking about making some landscape improvements around their home this spring, might consider planting some new trees or shrubs,” Slagle says, adding “planting trees and shrubs around a home has many benefits. Properly maintained trees and shrubs will reduce pollution, help control storm water, lower energy costs, improve the appearance of the community, and increase property value. value of your property.
      Dan Slagle, Executive Director of Boardman Park, is available to offer recommendations on selecting the “Right Plant for the Right Place” for your home. With over 40 years of experience, Dan can offer advice on planting the ‘right plant in the right place,’ caring, and maintaining trees, shrubs, and perennials, as well as assist with diagnosing plant problems.
      “Our goal is to help the residents of Boardman to get the best from their plants and garden,” says Slagle.
      He is available to answer landscaping questions Monday-Friday 9am-noon by calling 330-726-8105 or by email at dan@boardmanpark.com.
  Thurs., Mar. 8 Registration Day For Kindergarten In Boardman Schools  
  February 1, 2018 Edition  
     Boardman School District will hold its Kindergarten Registration Day for the 2018-19 school year on Thurs., March 8 from 9-11 a.m., 1-3 p.m. and 6-8 p.m. in each of the district’s four elementary school offices.
      Registering early is encouraged, to ensure assignment to your elementary school of residence. Boardman Kindergarten is all day, every day.
      Registration for a new student to the Boardman Local Schools requires parents or guardians to be residents in the Boardman Local School District. Your child must reach age 5 on or before August 1, 2018. Please bring the following items:
       •A completed registration form (found online at http://www.boardman.k12.oh.us/)
       •Presentation of proof of immunization and completion of the School Hazard Record. (proof of your child’s immunization is a physician’s statement or immunization card with dates entered)
       •Presentation of official state birth certificate
       •Presentation of at least two proofs of residency forms (i.e. homeowner’s tax statement, utility bill, purchase/rental agreement, etc.) and residency affidavit.
       •Custody papers, if applicable
       •Payment of $25 to partially cover the cost of supplies furnished by the school.
      Classroom space is limited for kindergarten, therefore students may be assigned to a building in the district that is not the school of residence. It is important to register early to ensure assignment to your elementary school of residence.
  Boardman Park Ice Skating Hours:  
  February 1, 2018 Edition  
     The Ice Rink will be open Monday through Sunday as follows:
       • Non-Contact Hockey - 10 AM to 1 PM
       • Open Skating - 1 PM to 4 PM
       • Non-Contact Hockey - 4 PM to 6 PM
       • Open Skating - 6 PM to 9 PM – Monday – Thursday and Sunday
       • Open Skating – 6 PM to 10 PM – Friday and Saturday
     
  Losses Of State Funds, And Property Taxes From St. Elizabeth Hospital Create Deficit In School System  
  January 25, 2018 Edition  
     The sudden impact of the loss of some $1 million in property taxes from the co-called non-profit St. Elizabeth Hospital on McClurg Rd,; coupled with the loss of tangible personal property tax revenues from the state of Ohio has resulted in projected general fund deficit of an estimated $3.4 million in the Boardman Local School System, Supt. Tim Saxton and Treasurer Nicholas Ciarniello said this week.
      Facing projected deficit spending, the local school board will place a 5.8-mil, additional tax levy before the electorate in the May primary elections. If approved, the levy would generate $4.9 million annually over a ten-year period, Supt. Saxton told The Boardman News.
      Additionally, Saxton said the revenue and expenditure streams calculated last May “did not reflect current conditions.”
      Last May, a five-year forecast projected deficit spending in the local school district, with projected revenue set at $43.6 million, and expenditures projected at $45.6 million.
      However, after consultation and study conducted with the aid of a private firm, those numbers were updated to reflect the district’s changed financial condition, Ciarniello said.
      Revenue streams are now currently projected at $43.3 million for the general fund, while expenses are projected at $46.6 million.
      The school superintendent said increased expenses for certified and non-certified staff approved by the school board last year do not have an adverse impact on the budget, noting those increases were offset by caps placed on board payments for health benefits.
      “School districts are seeing six per cent increases in health care costs per year, whereas Boardman has capped their increases to 1.5 per cent to 2.5 per cent,” Saxton said.
      The superintendent said revenue streams from state sources are capped at $9.4 million; and the Boardman Local School District is the only district in Mahoning County where the ‘cap’ is applied.
      “This system of state funding does not allow our district to receive more benefits from economic growth,” Saxton said.
      Boardman Local School Board President Jeff Barone, said the system has actively cut payroll expenses “through attrition,” adding the district has among the lowest starting salaries of any district in Mahoning County.
      “We have to make decisions to remain competitive when we hire new staff,” Barone said.
      “We are working to provide the students of our district with sources of funding that are sustainable over the next decade,” Saxton said.
      Without additional funding, the system’s annual carryover would be reduced from approximately $7 million, to $3.5 million, Saxton and Ciarniello said.
      According to the Boardman Local School District’s amended official certificate of estimated resources, the system operates on a overall annual revenue stream of some $70.369 million.
  Discover And Enjoy Boardman Park In The Winter  
  January 25, 2018 Edition  
     Do you have the Winter Blues? A visit to Boardman Park may lift your spirits and ease the mid-winter doldrums.
      A 2005 study from Harvard University suggests walking fast for about 35 minutes a day five times a week or 60 minutes a day three times a week improved symptoms of mild to moderate depression. Just getting outdoors and enjoying nature can improve focus, reduce symptoms of seasonal affective disorder, and lower stress levels.
      Boardman Park provides over four miles of trails to walk, jog, or just enjoy the beauty of nature in the winter.
      The park’s trail system consists of the North Trail, with its Eisenhower Branch and Maag Theatre Walk. The trail located on the east side of the main drive of the park, starts at the Boardman Park Lariccia Family Community Center and travels north to the bicentennial rock of Boardman, which is across from St. James Meeting House. The trail provides a safe and accessible pathway to park facilities and to a variety of recreational opportunities. Via the Eisenhower Branch, Trail Users will be able to enjoy the natural areas of the park. The Eisenhower Branch connects the North Trail to the park’s nature trail system located within the 167 acres of natural habitat, as well as the Hike and Bike Trail.
      The surface of the North Trail is asphalt pavement, with the Eisenhower Branch constructed of recycled asphalt. The trail is 8 feet wide and is approximately one mile in length, and is ADA accessible. The Nature Trail system consists of eight (8) trails, with a total length of 2.7 miles; thereby, making the total for all trails in the park over four miles in length.
      The North Trail was recognized by the Ohio Department of Natural Resources and awarded Recreational Trail grant, because of its design, purpose and function. The design of the trail includes two relatively new concepts: 1) Meandering: The trail winds between and around trees, while staying outside of the drip line of the trees. The purpose of this concept is twofold: first, to prevent root damage during construction, and secondly, to enhance the aesthetics of the Trail. 2) Elevated Walks: The Trail is constructed above grade. The benefit of this concept is also twofold: first and similar to meandering, to prevent tree root damage, except it is used where meandering is not possible, and secondly, to keep the trail above areas that are wet, which will help prevent water damage.
      Benefits of Trails
       •Trails connect people to nature, to each other, and to our shared histories and cultures.
       •Trails bring peace, solace and joy.
       •Trails promote fitness and outdoor activity.
       •They make our people healthy and our communities more livable.
       •They showcase preservation of open space and wildlife habitat.
       •They bring nature to persons with disabilities.
       •They help our kids develop life-long habits of good health and promote stewardship of the land
      For winter fun, the Park provides a 9-hole disc golf course. Disc golf is a social sport that permits people of all ages the opportunity to enjoy nature while playing a competitive game. One of the many positive aspects of disc golf is that the course has been integrated into the Boardman Park landscape, while not disrupting other activities. The course utilizes existing trees, landscaping, and terrain to create a unique playing experience. Disc golf is a relatively inexpensive sport to play; the cost involves the purchasing of one or more discs that are approximately $10 each (not available at the park).
      Disc golf is played much like traditional golf. Instead of a ball and clubs, however, players use a flying disc. Similar to ball golf, the object of completing each hole in the fewest strokes (or, in the case of disc golf, fewest throws). A disc is thrown from a tee area to the hole, which is an elevated metal basket. As a player progresses down the fairway, he or she must make each consecutive throw from the spot where the previous throw has landed. The trees, shrubs, and terrain changes located in and around the fairways provide challenging obstacles for the golfer. Finally, the ‘putt’ lands in the basket and the hole is completed. Disc golf shares the same joys and frustrations of traditional golf, whether it is sinking a long putt or hitting a tree halfway down the fairway. However, there are few differences.
      It has been said by some Disc Golfers, “Neither snow, nor sleet, nor dark of night shall keep disc golfers from their appointed rounds.” Winter is a great season for disc golf. Walking from hole to hole allows participants to savor the beauty of winter, which can be hard to appreciate from behind a pane of glass.
      Plus, winter play helps highly competitive golfers rediscover the fun factor. Chilly temperatures, wind, snow—none of these elements promotes top performance, and so winter rounds become less about setting records and more about simply enjoying the game.
      Common sense cold-weather adjustments apply to winter disc golfing: “Warm socks, waterproof boots, gators to keep the snow out. Also, it is best to dress in layers, with thicker layers at the core to keep the torso warm and the arms free to move.”
      Boardman Park also provides an ice skating rink when the weather permits, and a beautiful landscape for cross-country skiing.
  Nominations Sought For Candidates For BHS Distinguished Alumni Award  
  January 25, 2018 Edition  
     Nominations for candidates for the Boardman High School Distinguished Alumni Award are currently being sought by the high school alumni association. The award is the highest honor by the Boardman High School Alumni Association and recognizes outstanding alumni who have maintained a high standard of excellence and made a significant contribution in their endeavors, exemplifying the ideals and spirit of Boardman High School and can serve as role models for current and future students.
      The Distinguished Alumni Award is presented each year at the Boardman High School Honors Assembly in May.
      Nominees for this award must meet the following criteria:
       • The nominee must have graduated from Boardman High School a minimum of 20 years prior to the year in which the award will be presented.
       • The nominee must have demonstrated recognized achievement in his/her profession, community, and/or charitable endeavors.
      The nomination and selection process will be administered as follows:
       •Anyone can submit a nomination. Self-nominations are also permitted. Nominees not selected for the award in previous years will be considered unless they withdraw their nomination.
       •All nomination forms received by the Boardman High School Alumni Association by March 15, 2018 via email to boardmanalumni@gmail.com or mailed to BAA, P.O. Box 3474, Boardman, Oh., 44513 will be verified for the criteria stated above.
      Annually, up to two individual nominees with the best cumulative rankings will be considered the recipient(s) of the Distinguished Alumni Award.
      A copy of their award plague will be placed on the new Alumni Wall outside of the BHS office.
      Nomination forms can be obtained by emailing boardmanalumni@gmail.com. Interested persons can call Cheryl Tarantino at 330-507-5454 for more information. Applications are due Mar. 15, 2018, Tarantino said.
     
  Schiavoni A Fresh Face In Ohio Governor’s Race  
  January 18, 2018 Edition  
State Sen. Joe Schiavoni
     The 2018 Ohio gubernatorial election will
      take place on November 6, 2018, to elect
      the next Governor of Ohio. Incumbent
      Republican Governor John Kasich is
      term-limited and cannot seek re-election
      to a third consecutive term. Among what is
      currently a crowded field of candidates is State Sen. Joe Schiavoni, democrat who lives in
      Boardman. Without a lot of name recognition
      throughout the state, early polling displayed by Wikipedia shows Sen. Schiavoni, Richard
      Cordray and Betty Sutton among the favorites
      to gain the Dem nomination for Ohio Governor. On the GOP side of the ledger, the
      favorite seems to by Ohio Atty. General
      Mike DeWine. Here’s some excerpts from
      around Ohio and what ‘they’ are saying about
      Joe Schiavoni.
     
      From Mounir Lynch | Opinion Editor
      University of Cincinnati News Record
      Ohio state senator Joe Schiavoni, a Democrat from (Boardman), is the youngest candidate in the race at age 38. He is a new face for many who are familiar with Ohio Democrat politicians, which, for me, is a much-needed aspect in this election. As I stated before, Ohio Democrats tend to have the same faces on the ballot every time, and it is causing them to lose crucial state races. In the near future, Democrats need to prove that they are the ones that actually stand up for working class, rural Americans in regions like Youngstown and southeastern Ohio in general. The people of Youngstown love Schiavoni, and most of his funding for his state senate campaign came from labor organizations. A young, fresh face from a blue-collar area could be a game changer for Ohio democrats. I find Schiavoni very, very exciting.
     
      By Dan Williamson
      Columbus Monthly
      Joe Schiavoni (Democrat): Two-term Ohio state senator from northeast Ohio
      Favorite Ohio Governor: Ted Strickland. “Here’s the thing: I only know two. Ted Strickland and John Kasich are the two Ohio governors I know.”
      Signature Issue: Increasing employment by investing in job training.
      Case for His Candidacy: “I got put into this job when I was 29, and I don’t go around acting like I have all the answers to all the problems. What I will do is go out and listen to people and learn their issues.”
      Path to the Nomination: Schiavoni capitalizes on his Capitol Square connections to raise campaign money, and Democratic voters are attracted to his relative youth and authenticity.
      Fun Fact: Like his father and his three younger brothers after him, Schiavoni was a Golden Gloves boxer at Boardman High School.
      In His Own Words: “The House and the Senate are not going to flip Democrat even if I win, so I’m going to have to keep building relationships with the other side
     
      From Seth Richardson
      Cleveland.com
      Schiavoni said any rumors of him dropping to a different race should be considered squashed. He added that he planned to be a newer voice for the party while Cordray is a retread.
      “I have respect for the work he’s done, but he represents the same recycled candidates we’ve seen the last two or three times,” Schiavoni said. “I’m giving people something new to believe in and the campaign is based on the needs of the people.”
     
      From Kentwired.com
      Sen. Joe Schiavoni, the youngest candidate in the race at 38 years old, is a Boardman native and a former Senate minority leader. He’s been a state senator for eight years, and stepped down as minority leader to focus on his gubernatorial campaign.
      In Schiavoni’s statement announcing his candidacy, he criticized the Republican field for their actions. He touts strong relationships with various labor unions, and the bulk of his fundraising for his 2014 senatorial campaign came from such organizations.
      Schiavoni said he wants to focus on Ohio’s infrastructure, public education system and the opioid epidemic. He’s taken particular issue with a Repbulican-led small business tax cut, which kept around $1.1 billion from state coffers in 2016, according to The Columbus Dispatch.
      “I have said for months that tax cuts should not be a priority when our schools are not adequately funded and our state is facing the worst public health crisis in decades,” Schiavoni told The Toledo Blade.
      Schiavoni released a job growth plan he would implement as governor that would repeal the small business tax cut put in place by the GOP.
      Schiavoni has also introduced a plan in the Senate to invest $50 million in public transportation and work with educational agencies to develop programs to meet workforce demands.
     
      By Daniel Strauss
      politico
      Ohio Democrats have been waiting and watching Richard Cordray’s moves for months, trying to figure out whether he was going to return home to run for governor. Now, with his dramatic departure from the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau, they may have gotten their answer.
      Cordray’s decision to resign as director of the CFPB — and simultaneously thumb his nose at President Donald Trump by appointing his successor at the agency — has managed to create the kind of buzz around his prospective bid that most candidates can only dream of.
      Even so, Cordray’s noisy exit from Washington is no guarantee of success back home. The Ohio governor’s race is already a crowded affair — if Cordray runs, he would be the sixth Democrat in the contest. And within his own party, potential rivals are already laying out the lines of attack.
      Democratic state Sen. Joe Schiavoni says Cordray, a former Ohio attorney general and state treasurer, isn’t exactly a fresh face.
      “He’s been in Washington for how many years?...I think as attorney general I think he did a decent job but at the end of the day when I’m traveling around people want something new,” he said. “They don’t want to see somebody that’s been in politics for 30 and 40 years just running for another position. So I’m just saying that’s what I’m hearing. I think that rings true.”
     
  Jeff Barone Elected President Of School Board  
  January 18, 2018 Edition  
     JEFF BARONE, has been elected president of the Boardman Local School board for 2018. Elected vice-president of the school board was Vickie Davis, at right. Sworn-in as a new member of the school board is John Fryda. During the school board’s reorganizational meeting held last Saturday, four law firms were employed for the calendar year 2018, to be used at the discretion of the superintendent of schools. Those law firms are Ennis Britton Co., L.P.A., 6000 Lombardo Center, Suite 120, Cleveland, Oh.; Henderson, Covington, Messenger, Newman & Thomas Co. L.P.A., 6 Federal Plaza Central, Suite 1300, Youngstown, Oh.; Squire Patton Boggs, 4900 Key Tower, 127 Public Square, Cleveland, Oh. and Walter Haverfield LLP, 1301 E. Ninth Street, Suite 3500, Cleveland, Oh.
  Trustee Larry Moliterno Files Petitions For Seat In 59th Ohio House District  
  January 11, 2018 Edition  
     In the middle of his third term as a Boardman Township Trustee, Larry Moliterno (D), 55, filed petitions with the Mahoning County Board of Elections last week to run for a seat in the Ohio House of Representative for the 59th District.
      The seat is being vacated by John Boccieri, who has announced plans to run for the state senate.
      Others interested in the seat include Democrat Eric Ungaro, a Poland Township trustee; and Republican John Manning.
      Moliterno was first elected as a Boardman Trustee in 2007, and has won re-election twice since that time. Since 2006, he had served as CEO of Meridian HealthCare, the largest provided of substance abuse treatment programs in the Mahoning Valley.
      Moliterno holds a bachelors degree in communication and a masters degree in business administration from Youngstown State University.
      A graduate of Leadership Mahoning valley, Moliterno has served as executive director of Catholic Charities, director of planning for the Youngstown/Mahoning Valley United Way, a member of the board of the Boardman Civic Association, a vice-president of Boardman Community Baseball, as a member of the board of directors for the Mahoning County Landbank and the advisory board of the Boardman Schools Television Network. He is also a member of the Boardman Booster Club.
      In 2016, Moliterno was tapped to serve on the 15-member Ohio Medical Marijuana task Force, representing the Ohio Alliance of Recovery Providers.
      He supported legislation approved by the United States Senate that was introduced by Republican Senator Rob Portman, called the Comprehensive Addiction and Recovery Act (CARA).
      “We protect our children from auto accidents with seatbelts, from sunburn with sunblock and from biking injuries with safety helmets. We need to do something to protect them from addiction. The Comprehensive Addiction and Recovery Act would expand prevention and education efforts while also promoting treatment and recovery. This is a truly innovative and ground-breaking piece of legislation that will make a substantial difference in this battle against addiction. It will reduce crime and increase productivity. And most importantly, it will reduce the number of families that are torn apart by this epidemic,” Moliterno said in support of the measure.
      His tenure as Boardman Trustee began as a minority-member of a chaotic, three-person board, where he brought some semblance of civility through the creation of The Boardman Plan, that was designed to focus on the future needs and goals of Boardman Township government.
      Upon the election of Thomas Costello and Brad Calhoun to the township’s board of trustees, the three-member board has made good on their pledge to act in the best interests of Boardman Township, and in more than eight years, they have never had a public disagreement on policy.
      Moliterno is the second, local man to seek election to a state office, as Democrat Ohio Sen. Joe Schiavoni is running for the governor of Ohio. Moliterno’s current term as a Boardman Trustee expires Dec. 31, 2019.
      He is the second Boardman Township Trustee to run for a seat in the Ohio Legislature. In 1972, Trustee Thomas J. Carney won election to the Ohio Senate.
  Sixth Change Order For New Fire Station  
  Five Police Officers Gain Promotions:   November 30, 2017 Edition  
     Boardman Trustees approved the sixth change-order for the township’s new main fire station at Market St. and Stadium Dr., increasing cost of construction by $34,227, and to $3.512 million.
      David Mickey, of ms consultants, said the additional costs were associated with revisions to floor finishes, changes to a fire tower window (changing it to a door to accommodate fire-fighter training), a revised public address system, as well as revisions to overhead-door control buttons and signal lights.
      To date, six change-orders have increased the cost of the new station by nearly $150,000, Mickey said, adding they “should conclude around $209,000.”
      In approving the construction of the new station, Trustees Larry Moliterno, Tom Costello and Brad Costello ‘set-aside’ about $300,000 for change-orders.
      “I can’t understand why these [change-orders] weren’t contained in the original plan,” Trustee Moliterno said to Mickey.
      “You are correct,” Mickey responded, adding “I know we have set aside money in the original plan for change-orders, but it not our expectation that we spend it.” The change in the tower window, was not contained in the original plan, Mickey said.
      Another issue to overcome, Mickey said, was gaining approval of a traffic signalization proposal.
      “J. Herbert Construction is having problems with that. I’m not sure what the hold-up is,” Mickey said.
      “We are entitled to have work done in a timely fashion,” Trustee Costello replied.
      In opening the meeting, five Boardman police officers were promoted.
      20-year veteran Ed McDonnell was promoted to the rank of captain.
      Promoted to the rank of lieutenant were John Paul Allsopp and Richard Balog; and Jon Martin and Michael Sweeney gained promotions to the rank of sergeant.
      Police Chief Jack Nichols, who will retire in less than 20 days, said the promotions were part of a big transition in his department, noting FBI agent Todd Werth will take over on Dec. 28.
      “The police department does a good job, day-to-day. These men are an example of that work,” Nichols said.
      Chief Nichols had kind words for four officers who did not receive promotions, including Sgt. Paul Grimes, Det. Glenn Patton, Ptl. Darrell Wagner and Ptl. David Sheely.
      “These are four great candidates for future positions,” the chief said, adding that Patton will be soon working with the FBI Task Force.
      Patton also addressed Trustees, to thank the Boardman Fire Department for its efforts at a recent fire at his home. A fire in he kitchen trapped his wife inside he structure, but the couple’s 18-year-old son re-entered the home to take her to safety.
      “I am very appreciative of the efforts of the fire department,” Patton said.
  LEGAL NOTICE  
  November 30, 2017 Edition  
     The Boardman Township Zoning Commission will conduct a Public Hearing on the following amendment to the Boardman Township Zoning Resolution and Township Zoning Map on Tuesday, December 12, 2017 at 5:30 PM, at the Boardman Township Government Center, 8299 Market Street, Boardman, Ohio 44512. Text and maps of the request may be viewed at the Boardman Township Zoning Office, 8299 Market Street, Boardman, Ohio 44512 Monday through Friday, between the hours of 8:00 AM and 4:00 PM, until time of hearing.
      Following the recommendation of the Zoning Commission, the proposed amendment will be referred to the Board of Trustees for final determination.
      AMENDMENT A-2017-07
      Pursuant to Article XVI, Section F, Part a, Number 1 of the Boardman Township Zoning Resolution, as amended through May 29, 2012, concerning the initiation of amendments to the Township Zoning Resolution, the Board of Trustees of Boardman Township find it necessary to initiate hearings to amend the Boardman Township Zoning Resolution and Township zoning Map to reclassify and rezone the following 198 parcels of real property from Residential R-2 Districts to Residential R-1 Districts:
      39 Parcels along Southern Boulevard
      2 Parcels along Melrose Avenue
      5 Parcels along Erskine Avenue
      41 Parcels along Afton Avenue
      40 Parcels along Argyle Avenue
      53 Parcels along Meadowbrook Avenue
      17 Parcels along Mathews Road
      1 Parcel of Border Avenue
      All properties are located in Boardman Township, Mahoning County, State of Ohio.
      Peter W. Lymber, Chairman
      Boardman Township Zoning Commission
      Krista Beniston, AICP
      Director of Zoning and Development
  LEGAL NOTICE  
  November 30, 2017 Edition  
     The Boardman Township Zoning Commission will conduct a Public Hearing on the following amendment to the Boardman Township Zoning Resolution and Township Zoning Map on Tuesday, December 12, 2017 at 5:30 PM, at the Boardman Township Government Center, 8299 Market Street, Boardman, Ohio 44512. Text and maps of the request may be viewed at the Boardman Township Zoning Office, 8299 Market Street, Boardman, Ohio 44512 Monday through Friday, between the hours of 8:00 AM and 4:00 PM, until time of hearing.
      Following the recommendation of the Zoning Commission, the proposed amendment will be referred to the Board of Trustees for final determination.
      AMENDMENT A-2017-06
      Pursuant to Article XVI, Section F, Part a, Number 1 of the Boardman Township Zoning Resolution, as amended through May 29, 2012, concerning the initiation of amendments to the Township Zoning Resolution, the Board of Trustees of Boardman Township find it necessary to initiate hearings to amend the Boardman Township Zoning Resolution and Township zoning Map to reclassify and rezone the following 226 parcels of real property from Residential R-2 Districts to Residential R-1 Districts:
      129 Parcels along Afton Avenue
      50 Parcels along Argyle Avenue
      12 Parcels along Cathy Way
      1 Parcel along Erie Street
      34 Parcels along Meadowbrook Avenue
      All properties are located in Boardman Township, Mahoning County, State of Ohio.
      Peter W. Lymber, Chairman
      Boardman Township Zoning Commission
      Krista Beniston, AICP
      Director of Zoning and Development
  Starting Line Now Open!  
  A High Octane Coffee Company:   November 30, 2017 Edition  
      Get to the ‘Starting Line’ at High Octane Coffee Company, corner West Blvd. and Rt. 224, for the best coffee, lattes, milkshakes, hot chocolate, hot cider, cold brew and more! The new Boardman shop with its drive-thru is now open featuring eight flavors of ice cream (with all the toppings of course), donuts from Whitehouse Farms and breakfast burritos from Los Gallos Mexican Restaurant. The new Boardman location of High Octane Coffee is officially open, from 6:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. The shop will stage its grand opening this weekend. Pictured, ready for customers, from left, Delani Rae Haas, Anna Duda, Nicole Barbone, Joe Sylvester and Dustin Hartzell.
  THE WAY I SEE IT  
  Boardman, OH  
  by Joy Mistovich:   November 30, 2017 Edition  
     November 2017: Sometimes, when we think about the past, we wonder how humankind was able to survive without the rapidly expanding era of technology. All individuals regardless of ability use the technology they possess to the best of their knowledge: whether it is a high-tech or low-tech device. Technology is a crucial asset to our daily lives, but we must all find the balance between technology and the physical interactions with others. Also, we must examine the devices/ companies that are making significant inroads on individuals with and without disabilities and urge those who are not to step slowly but forcefully on the appropriate path.
      For those with disabilities, technology has unlocked countless doors for the beginning of equal and full participation into society. In this month’s column, I will discuss two companies—but there are numerous others that are taking steps in the right direction to positively work to strengthen the bonds between those with and without disabilities to demonstrate their full potential.
      Apple has been a team leader in demonstrating what is possible for all individuals regardless of ability by continuing to remain on the cutting edge of technological advancements and continuing to make all of their products accessible. Every piece of Apple technology—the iPhone, iPad, Mac, Apple TV, and Apple Watch have the same assistive technology features built into these devices to seamlessly transition from product to product, and unlike some Windows based technologies, there is no need to pay extra money to receive the accessible features. The National Federation of the Blind was one of the most influential organizations that assisted the tech giant in increasing the ease of access for blind individuals and all other disability groups. In the past during an Apple keynote presentation, especially when the universal access symbol and features were released: magnification, screen reader, closed captioning, subtitles, and text to speech to name a few, numerous individuals without disabilities were familiar with these features, but this is where everything came to a halt. These features were included in the devices, but the biggest obstacle that had to be overcome was showcasing how those with disabilities were using the products to benefit their own lives, whether it was in a work environment or in their spare time. Just this year, Apple released a series of videos on their website detailing some of the most common features and how certain disabled people are positively impacting their communities by using Apple technology. Throughout all sectors of the Apple corporation, there is a push to increase hiring for the disabled community to make them both more visible and aiding in the most effective teamwork possible accomplished by disabled and non-disabled individuals alike.
      A second company, which was created in 2015 and is rapidly expanding it’s reach is called Aira; the name stands for Artificial Intelligence Remote Access, and the concept was originally co-founded by a young software engineer in San Diego. The concept of Aira is extremely similar to that of Uber and Lyft, which also have a tremendous impact on the disabled community. A blind individual uses an app either on their iPhone or Android phone in combination with a pair of Google Smart glasses or smart glasses from an Austrian company along with a Mifi device that provides free Wifi data wherever the individual travels. The smart glasses include a camera on the front that relays visual information to the sighted person on the other end; these individuals are called agents, and they relay the visual information to the blind consumer—Aira Explorers-- via their phone or headphones. The Aira service can be used for various tasks including shopping, reading printed material, traveling, and providing walking or transit directions, etc. There is no limit to what is possible with using the Aira technology, and in the near future, this service will be expanded to other disability groups and non-disabled people. However, this service doesn’t replace the use of a guide dog or a cane. In order to become proficient, the blind individual must possess sufficient orientation and mobility—cane travel skills or via a guide dog to successfully use this technology. As with the use of Apple devices or any other accessible devices, an individual must obtain the skills they need, since one concept will build upon another.
      The explanation I’ve just mentioned incorporates the balance of technology, human interaction, and finally, assisting to expand the identity of people with disabilities and not forcing them to play the role of a non-disabled individual. As consumers, we can choose how much information we gain through technology or other means, just as a newly disabled person will learn that embracing in the disability culture is crucial for non-disabled individuals, since the disabled population has positively influenced numerous aspects of life. We must continue to advocate for equal access locally and elsewhere, so that one day, all places, digital information, and visible written signage can be accessible and used by every individual.
     
  Elementary Schools Plan Special Events For Veterans  
  November 2, 2017 Edition  
     Boardman School District’s four elementary schools will be keeping local veterans entertained with special events all set for Friday, Nov. 10, in observance of Veterans Day, Nov. 11.
      Stadium Drive Elementary will host a breakfast at 8:20 a.m. with patriotic music that should run until 9:15 a.m. Stadium has been hosting this event for several years, and anticipates approximately 100 veterans will be in attendance.
      Market Street Elementary students sponsor loved ones who are veterans, and will welcome them to an assembly in the school auditorium at 9:00 a.m. Each veteran will receive a personalized certificate, thanking them for their service to America.
      West Boulevard Elementary will provide lunch for veterans between 11:00 a.m. and noon. Students will dine with the vets, so they can share their personal stories of service, and sacrifice. The lunch will be followed by a patriotic music celebration presented by third grade students at noon.
      Robinwood Lane Elementary has a musical program for veterans that will begin at 1:15 p.m. Music Teacher Bob Pavalko and the fourth grade chorus will perform for dozens of veterans invited by students and staff. Students will clap veterans out of the assembly to conclude the program.
  OPINION  
  Vote Costello, Calhoun For Trustee:   October 19, 2017 Edition  
     When the electorate goes to the polls on Tues., Nov. 7, three candidates will be on the ballot for Boardman Township Trustee, including incumbents Thomas Costello and Brad Calhoun.
      They deserve re-election, and their lone opponent, David Moliterno, is totally and unequivocally unqualified for election.
      Mr. Costello, Mr. Calhoun, along with Trustee Larry Moliterno and Fiscal Officer William Leicht, have formed a strong leadership team and frequently express their desire to do what is in the best interests of the community.
      They have not deviated from that stance.
      For example, despite irrational demands in the collective bargaining process made by the local fire-fighters union, Trustees have pressed ahead with the construction of a new fire station.
      The new station will open next year and will be centrally located to best serve the township.
      As the crucible of community safety, manpower at the Boardman Police Department has been restored, and there are little known programs put in place to help promote safety. Among them is the daily security walk-throughs at local public and parochial schools conducted by the police department. There is a real effort made to insure a police presence in our schools. As well, the school resource officers have been expanded from one officer to three officers during the school year.
      Our police department is a beacon throughout Mahoning County.
      At the road department, Trustees embarked upon a cooperative purchasing program that has reduced costs for materials used for winter snow and ice control, and another cooperative purchasing program has been implemented that reduced overall costs for the summer road resurfacing program, allowing the township to pave more streets during the summer months.
      With an eye towards maintaining the integrity of our neighborhoods, the township’s zoning/planning department regularly works to insure properties are well-kept and in line with zoning regulations.
      Mr. Costello and Mr. Calhoun are two of the best Township Trustees to ever serve in the modern era of Boardman Township. And they have done so, despite the loss of some $3 million in state subsidies and rollbacks in local property taxes. Despite that loss of funding, construction of a new main fire station has been undertaken without an additional tax levy.
      In the best interests of Boardman Township, Trustees Tom Costello and Brad Calhoun deserve re-election. They have worked diligently keep Boardman A Nice Place to Call Home.
  Anti-Drug Event, Yes Fest, Oct. 20  
  Features Wheelchair Bodybuilding Champion Nick Scott:   October 19, 2017 Edition  
     Boardman High School’s 5th annual Yes Fest will feature wheelchair bodybuilding champion Nick Scott as guest speaker with a “Fearless” message on Fri., Oct. 20. The anti-drug event was created to challenge students to go a step further than just saying “No to Drugs,” but to also say “Yes” to positive influences, especially community service.
      Scott’s story is inspirational, motivational, and compelling especially for teens who struggle with peer pressure and not wanting to be ‘different.’ He talks about how a terrible car accident changed his life as a high school football player, but opened endless possibilities that he’d never imagined.
      The entire high school as well as seventh and eighth graders from Glenwood Junior High will have the opportunity to hear Scott’s empowering message. Following his presentation, high school students will also travel to the gym for a community festival with endless volunteer choices, where nearly 1400 students will be able to talk to representatives from nearly 60 valley non-profit organizations and community groups about a wide range of volunteer opportunities. Some of the guests include Akron Children’s Hospital, Beatitude House, Big Brothers Big Sisters, the Humane Society and Mahoning Valley’s United Way.
      “I’ve been involved with Yes Fest since its inception, and we as administrators can see it’s really making an impact on our students,” said assistant high School principal Anne Bott.
      “Giving teens the power to determine who they want to be, and providing them ways to make a positive difference can keep young adults from making that tragic mistake.”
     
  Angels Fall Festival Fri., Oct. 27 At Mt. Carmel Social Hall  
  October 5, 2017 Edition  
     The Angels of Easter Seals will host an evening of wine and spirits during a “A Fall Celebration” set for Fri., Oct. 27 at 6:30 p.m. at Our Lady of Mt. Carmel Social Hall, 343 Via Mount Carmel, Youngstown, Oh.
      This event replaces the ‘Magic of An Angels Christmas,’ that was held for many years at Mr. Anthony’s in Boardman.
      A ‘Bob for Booze’; a 50/50 raffle; and a chance to win ‘Spirits for a Year’ (a dozen bottles of high-end wine and alcohol) will be available. Marisa Sergi, CEO and founder of Redhead Wine, will be selling her wine.
      Raffle tickets are available for $5 per ticket or five tickets for $20. Raffle items include a $1,500 shopping spree at Eastwood Mall; a beautiful diamond pendant necklace; a 50-inch television and a fragrance basket. Tickets are available from any Angel or by calling the Easter Seal Center at 330- 599-5514.
      There will be a short live auction by Greg Smith including: dinner and drinks with the Jim and Ellen Tressel; a tour of a private antique car museum with hors d’oeuvres made by the Angels for up to 40 guests; an exotic animal Kids Party by Outback Ray; and the Handel’s Homemade Ice Cream Truck that will come to the destination of choice with ice cream for a party of 100.
      A silent auction will include: NFL football tickets (Steelers/Browns December game); Johnny Walker Blue; jewelry; restaurant gift certificates; designer purses; and many more items.
      Donors include: The DeBartolo Corporation - Denise and John York; Jones Wealth Management; Phyllis and Vince Bacon; Carolynn and George Mitchell; Boardman Rotary; Skate Zone Fun Center; Emily and Bill DeToro; Cafaro Foundation; Bethann and Scott Zoldan; V & V Appliance Parts; Handel’s Homemade Ice Cream; Jim and Ellen Tressel; Richard Owsley; Lou and Joan Zarlenga; Komara Jewelers; Macy’s of Southern Park Mall; Caren and Ryerson Dalton; Zoe and Zachery Simon; Youngstown Fraternal Order of Eagles, Aerie #213; Frank and Norma Watson; Carol and Doug Lumsden; Donnell Ford; Easter Seals Board of Trustees; Kathy and Ron Carroll; Lynn and Bob Sahli; Gasser Chair; Sally and Bill Reedy; and Gulu Electrical Contractors.
      Smith and his wife, Nancy, are honorary hosts for the event.
      Tickets to attend are $60/person. Call the Easter Seals Center at 330-599-5514.
      Julie Costas, Marlene Morrison and Jacie Ridel are co-chairs of the event aided by all the Angels of Easter Seals. Georgeann Buonpane is President of the Angels.
      Future events, sponsored by the Angels of Easter Seals, include Angels Holiday & Sweet Shoppe on Dec. 6, 2017 and the 41st annual Spring Fashion Show on May 3, 2018.
      All proceeds benefit Easter Seals of Mahoning, Trumbull and Columbiana Counties
  Township’s Main Fire Station To Host Its Final Open House Sat., Oct. 14  
  October 5, 2017 Edition  
     The Boardman Township Fire Department’s annual open house will be held for the final time on Sat., Oct. 14 from 11:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. at the main fire station, 136 Boardman-Poland Rd. (Rte. 224). The main fire station has served the township since the late 1920s and will be closed next year when the township opens a new, main fire station at the corner of Market St. and Stadium Dr.
      Adults and children will be able to tour the station and get a close-up look at a fire truck, and also see demonstrations, including a live fire burn and an extrication with the Jaws of Life.
      The BFD’s Safety Trailer will be on hand so that children can learn what do to in case of a fire at home.
      Additional activities will include: face painting, Bounce-Around, Helmets, stickers and coloring books, flu shots by a Rite Aid pharmacist, certified car seat inspections by Akron Children’s Hospital and a Mahoning Safe Communities display.
      There will be free hot dogs, chips and refreshments for all.
  LEGAL NOTICE  
  October 5, 2017 Edition  
     29D01-1708-AD-001103
      Hamilton Superior Court 1
      STATE OF INDIANA
      COUNTY OF HAMILTON
      SS: IN HAMILTON SUPERIOR COURT 1
      CAUSE: 29DOl-1708-AD
      THE MATTER OF THE ADOPTIONS OF:
      ELVIRA MARIA MONDRAGON VELA,
      PRISCILLA JOLIE MONDRAGON, and
      VULNA VIA ROSE MONDRAGON VELA Minor Children.
      NOTICE OF ADOPTION
      TO: Erasmo Mondragon
      (a.k.a. Gerardo Suares-Ortez)
      Youngstown, Ohio
      VIA PUBLICATION
      Filed: 8/29/2017 1:50 PM
      Tammy Baitz
      Clerk
      Hamilton County, Indiana
      Erasmo Mondragon is notified that a Petition for Adoption of his minor children, named Elvira Maria Mondragon Vela who was born on September 5, 2001 in Indianapolis, Indiana; Priscilla Jolie Mondragon who was born on August 9, 2004 in Noblesville, Indiana; and, Vulnavia Rose Mondragon Vela who was born on May 29, 2007 in Noblesville, Indiana, was filed in the Office of the Clerk of the Hamilton County Superior Court No.1, One Hamilton Square, Noblesville, Indiana, under the title: In the
      Matter of the Adoption of Elvira Maria Mondragon Vela, Priscilla Jolie Mondragon and Vulnavia Rose Mondragon Vela. The Petition for Adoption alleges that Erasmo Mondragon (a.k.a. Gerardo Suares-Ortez) is the Biological Father of the minor children;
      however, Erasmo Mondragon’s (a.k.a. Gerardo Suares-Ortez) consent is not required as he has failed, without justifiable cause, to communicate significantly with the children when able to do so for at least one (1) year; he has knowingly failed to provide for the care and support of the children when able to do so as required by law or judicial decree for at least one (1) year; and he is too unfit to be a parent.
      If Erasmo Mondragon (a.k.a. Gerardo Suares-Ortez) seeks to contest the adoption of the children, Elvira Maria Mondragon Vela, Priscilla Jolie Mondragon and Vulnavia Rose Mondragon Vela, Erasmo Mondragon (a.k.a. Gerardo Suares-Ortez) must file a motion to contest the adoption in accordance with IC 31-19-10-1 in the above named court not later than thirty (30) days after the date of service of this Notice.
      If Erasmo Mondragon (a.k.a. Gerardo Suares-Ortez) does not file a motion to contest the adoption within thirty (30) days after service of this notice, the above named court will hear and determine the Petition for Adoption. The consent to the adoption of Elvira Maria Mondragon Vela, Priscilla Jolie Mondragon and Volnavia Rose Mondragon Vela will be irrevocably implied and Erasmo Mondragon (a.k.a. Gerardo Suares-Ortez) will lose the right to contest either the adoption or the validity of Erasmo Mondragon’s (a.k.a. Gerardo Suares-Ortez) implied consent to the adoption.
      No oral statement made by Matthew Johnston and Elizabeth Johnston relieves Erasmo Mondragon (a.k.a. Gerardo Suares-Ortez) of his obligations under this notice.
      This notice complies with IC 31-19-4.5-3, but does not exhaustively set forth a person’s legal obligations under the Indiana adoption statutes. A person being served with this notice should consult the Indiana adoption statues.
      Dated: 8/29/2017
      Attorney for Petitioners:
      Shelley Haymaker
      124 North 10th Street
      Noblesville, IN 46060
  LEGAL NOTICE  
  September 28, 2017 Edition  
     LEGAL NOTICE
      The Board of Trustees of Boardman Township shall conduct a Public Hearing on the following amendment to the Boardman Township Zoning Resolution and Township Zoning Map on Tuesday, October 10, 2017 at 5:15 PM, at the Boardman Township Government Center, 8299 Market Street, Boardman, Ohio 44512. Text and maps of the request may be viewed at the Boardman Township Zoning Office, 8299 Market Street, Boardman, Ohio 44512 Monday through Friday, between the hours of 8:00 AM and 4:00 PM, until time of hearing.
      This is the final hearing in determination of this case. The Board shall act either immediately or within twenty (20) days of the hearing date.
      AMENDMENT A-2017-02
      Pursuant to Article XVI, Section F, Part a, Number 1 of the Boardman Township Zoning Resolution, as amended through May 29, 2012, concerning the initiation of amendments to the Township Zoning Resolution, the Board of Trustees of Boardman Township find it necessary to initiate hearings to amend the Boardman Township Zoning Resolution and Township zoning Map to reclassify and rezone the following 191 parcels of real property from Residential R-2 Districts to Residential R-1 Districts:
      69 Parcels along Brookfield Avenue
      25 Parcels along Glendale
      2 Parcels along East Glenwood Avenue
      11 Parcels along Marindale Avenue
      23 Parcels along North Melbourne Avenue
      46 Parcels along Oakley Avenue
      11 Parcels along Paxton Road
      4 Parcels along Pembroke Place
      All properties are located in Boardman Township, Mahoning County, State of Ohio.
      Tom Costello, Chairman
      Board of Trustees, Boardman Township
      Krista Beniston, AICP,
      Director of Zoning and Development
  LEGAL NOTICE  
  September 28, 2017 Edition  
     LEGAL NOTICE
      The Board of Trustees of Boardman Township shall conduct a Public Hearing on the following amendment to the Boardman Township Zoning Resolution and Township Zoning Map on Tuesday, October 10, 2017 at 5:15 PM, at the Boardman Township Government Center, 8299 Market Street, Boardman, Ohio 44512. Text and maps of the request may be viewed at the Boardman Township Zoning Office, 8299 Market Street, Boardman, Ohio 44512 Monday through Friday, between the hours of 8:00 AM and 4:00 PM, until time of hearing.
      This is the final hearing in determination of this case. The Board shall act either immediately or within twenty (20) days of the hearing date.
      AMENDMENT A-2017-03
      Pursuant to Article XVI, Section F, Part a, Number 1 of the Boardman Township Zoning Resolution, as amended through May 29, 2012, concerning the initiation of amendments to the Township Zoning Resolution, the Board of Trustees of Boardman Township find it necessary to initiate hearings to amend the Boardman Township Zoning Resolution and Township zoning Map to reclassify and rezone the following 218 parcels of real property from Residential R-2 Districts to Residential R-1 Districts:
      51 Parcels along Aylesboro Avenue
      46 Parcels along Centervale Avenue
      28 Parcels along East Glendale Avenue
      12 Parcels along Glenwood Avenue
      26 Parcels along South Melbourne Avenue
      27 Parcels along Paxton Road
      27 Parcels along North Rockdale Avenue
      3 Parcels of Boardman Drainage Ditch
      All properties are located in Boardman Township, Mahoning County, State of Ohio.
      Tom Costello, Chairman
      Board of Trustees, Boardman Township
      Krista Beniston, AICP,
      Director of Zoning and Development
  Township’s Tentative Property Valuation Set At $2.553 Billion  
  St. Elizabeth Hospital Acquires Tax Exempt Status On Its $117 Million Complex:   September 21, 2017 Edition  
      According to figures provided by the Mahoning County Auditor’s Office, the proposed valuation of all properties located in Boardman Township, except for areas zoned agricultural, has been tentatively set at some $2.554 billion, an increase in valuation of slightly more than $20 million over present valuations established six years ago.
      The property valuations are required under Ohio law every six years.
      “Contracted appraisers were hired to review every parcel in Mahoning County (including Boardman Township),” Ralph Meacham, county auditor, said, explaining that following the appraisals, a fair market value has been placed on all properties in the county.
      Properties are then taxed at 35 per cent of the fail market value.
      “Property owners should be aware that an increase or decrease in property value does not mean there will be a corresponding amount of increase or decrease in taxes,” Mr. Meacham said.
      Residential property owners in Boardman who wish to dispute their valuations can do so Oct. 25-27, from 10:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. at the Boardman Library, 7630 Glenwood Ave. No appointments are necessary.
      Commercial and industrial property owners can view their new tentative valuations on the auditor’s web site, but will need to call 330-740-2758 to schedule an appointment with a commercial appraiser,” Mr. Meachum said.
      In February and March of 2018, Mahoning County will open a Reappraisal Information Center at the Oak Hill Renaissance Place.
      Mr. Meachum said his office “recognized that establishing property value is an important and sensitive issue. Taxpayers have the right to know how we have established the value on their property.” He encourages property owners to view their new, tentative property values...that will likely be used in the calculation of tax bills due next year by going to the auditor’s office web site where a property search can be completed.
      In other matter, Mr. Meacham told The Boardman News that St. Elizabeth Hospital complex, 8401 Market St. an application for tax exempt status has been approved by the Ohio Department of Taxation.
      The exempt status requires the hospital be refunded some $1.727 million in property tax funds.
      Some township officials suggest the refund could result in a loss of some $360,000 to Boardman Township, and even more to the Boardman Local School District, upwards of $920,000.
      According to the Auditor’s Office, property at the St. Elizabeth Hospital complex at McClurg Rd. and Market St. has a fair market value of upwards of $117 million, but because most of the property has been declared tax exempt, the hospital pays little to nothing in property taxes.
  School Board Okays Up To $80,000 For One Autistic Child To Attend Class At Neurobehavioral Center In Twinsburg  
  Settlement Agreement Approved Over Issue Of Free Appropriate Public Education:   September 7, 2017 Edition  
     Meeting last week, the Boardman Board of Education approved a ‘settlement agreement’ mandating the system spend no more than $80,000 to provide ‘free appropriate public education’ for a single student with disabilities (autism) to attend the KidsLink Neurobehavioral Center in Twinsburg, Oh.
      The settlement agreement also calls for the Boardman Local Schools to provide the student free transportation to and from the neurobehavioral center.
      According to the agreement, the student’s parents claimed the Boardman Local Schools denied the student a free public education, and “the placement and services identified in the 2017-18 individual education plan for the child were inappropriate.”
      The local school district and the parents “reached the compromise agreement to avoid expense, inconvenience and potential acrimony of a due process hearing,” the agreement says.
      Supt. Tim Saxton indicated last week the Boardman Local School may be reimbursed for up to $40,000 of the expenses called for in the agreement.
      The agreement mandates the child’s parents “shall not file any special education due process hearing complaint, or a complaint with any state or federal agency, or court with regard to the student’s educational program for the 2017-18 school year (including the summer of 2018).”
      Under terms of the agreement, the child’s parents waived “any claims that have accrued, or may accrue...against the school board and all agents, officers and employees of the board, including but not limited to claims for education, special education, related services, transportation, tuition, room and board, reimbursement, compensatory education, damages, therapy, independent evaluations and attorney fees.”
      The agreement also prohibits discussion on the matter.
      “If asked about their dispute with the Boardman Local School District, parents shall respond only that is has been satisfactorily resolved.”
      In another matter at last week’s school board meeting, the Boardman Local School Board agreed to provide transportation for two students who reside in the Canfield Local School District to attend the Islamic Academy of Youngstown at 239 Trumbull Ave., Youngstown, Oh.
      Under the agreement, the Canfield system agreed to pay Boardman Local Schools $1000 for the cost of transportation.
      “These two students will be picked-up by a Boardman school bus and taken to West Blvd. Elementary School by 8:00 a.m. These students will then be picked-up by a different Boardman school bus and transported to the Islamic Academy by 8:40 a.m. In the afternoon, these two students will be picked-up at the Islamic Academy at 3:30 a.m. and taken directly home by 4:30 p.m.,” says the agreement.
      Acting upon the recommendation of Supt. Saxton, the school board approved an application to participate in federal and state free and reduced-price lunch and breakfast programs.
      That application says during the 2015-16 school year, Boardman Local Schools provided 167,451 free lunches, and 23,318 reduced-price lunches; or some 63 per cent of all lunches served.
      The board granted a one year, limited contract to Mrs. Jenna Hudock, as an art teacherat the high school. She replaces Michelle Leonti.
      Mrs. Jessica O’Halloran was granted a one year, limited contract as an intervention specialist at West Blvd. Elementary School replacing Mary Rowan.
      Any Pendleton was granted a one year, limited contract as a business teacher at Boardman High School replacing Laura Pfahler.
      Katie Sears was granted a one year, limited contract as an art teacher at Center Intermediater School, replacing Jenna Hudock.
      Awarded one year, limited contracts as classified employees were Katie Brown, food service server at Stadium Dr. Elementary School; Christina DiNapoli, superintendent/personnel administrative assistant; Michael Hardie, independent aide/computer-independent aide at West Blvd. Elementary School; Nicole Hively, enrollment/EMIS administrative assistant; Heather Oyler, independent aide/library at West Blvd. Elementary School; Elizabeth Reed, teacher aide at Glenwood Jr. High School; Armando ‘Nick’ Rucci, noontime monitor at West Blvd. Elementary School; and Danielle Yuhas, noontime monitor at Market St. Elementary School.
      Approved as off-staff volunteer coaches were Jen Kreps, high school girls volleyball; Zach Machuga, Gene Modarelli and Carmen Tarantino, high school football; and Lindsay Tokarsky, high school girls soccer.
      The school board accepted a $4000 donation from the Drug Education Officers of Mahoning Valley Inc. that will be used to support Boardman High School’s Yes Fest.
  Class of 2018 Is 100th In The History Of Boardman High School  
  Became The Spartans In 1935:   August 31, 2017 Edition  
     BY JOHN A. DARNELL JR.
      associate editor
      When the members of the Boardman High School Class of 2018 receive their diplomas next spring, they will be the 100th class at the school to graduate, although the history of the local public school system dates back to 1904.
      Prior to that time, students attended no less than eight, one-room school houses that were scattered throughout Boardman Township. Those included Shady Hollow, on Tippecanoe Rd.; Gault School, at the corner of what is now Rt. 224 and West Blvd.; Kipper’s Corners, near Shields Rd. and Market St.; Pleasant Grove, on South Ave. in the northern part of the township; Rice School. on South Ave. in the southern part of the township (legend has it that President William McKinley once taught there); Chambers School, in Woodworth near North Lima; Heintzelman School, in the southwest portion of Boardman; and Cornersburg School, that was eventually annexed to Youngstown.
      Near the turn of the 18th century, in 1899, and with a population of less than 300 persons, township leaders began to study the concept of centralization---consolidating all schools into one building. There was much debate in the township, as ‘older’ citizens said they couldn’t understand the need for a central school; after all, they went to a one-room school.
      Then, in Feb., 1901, the issue of centralizing the schools was placed before the electorate. The issue lost, 53-44. However, the ballot issue was declared illegal, as the ‘school board’ learned it had the sole right to make a determination on centralization.
      According to a report authored by Edwin Walters, that he presented at the Randolph Reunion in 1928, it was on Apr. 18, 1904 ‘pioneers founders’ approved a resolution to establish a high school for Boardman. The founders included Mrs. Ollie Stafford, Mrs. Henry Heinztelman and William Baisler. Members of the school board were reported to include Henry Heinztelman, George Ripley, William Baisler and George Geesman.
      That same year, the first four-room, centralized school house was erected at 7330 Market St. (now the site of Ingram and Ingram law offices) at a cost of $4,469, according to Mr. Walters’ recollection.
      Less than 90 students attended the school, overseen by Supt. William B. Randolph, whose salary was $75/month. Randolph also taught ‘the first two years of high school,’ as students who wanted a four-year degree then had to transfer to Youngstown schools, either The Rayen School or South High School. Two teachers served the consolidated school---Miss Minnie Kyper taught fourth, fifth and sixth grades; and Miss Mae Lee taught first, second and third grades. Kyper and Lee earned $35/month.
      Students were transported to school on six, horse-drawn busses over roads that became so impassable in the spring due to mud, that most students walked to school. [Note: In the early 1920s, the school board purchased the first ‘motor truck for school transportation, a Reo Speed Wagon, with curtained sides, that hauled about 24 children. In 1928, the school board began a move towards school busses, a system that still operating almost 99 years later].
      In those early years of Boardman School, there were no organized sports, as Walters noted “we played shinney (a form of hockey) and some baseball on the Boardman Rd...Of course, there was no danger of automobiles, as they were as scarce as horses and buggies are today in 1928.”
      In 1906, Myrtle Hutchinson became the first graduate of Boardman High School, after finishing-up her study at The Rayen School in Youngstown.
      In 1911, the original ‘Boardman School’ was moved south near the site of what is today Center Intermediate School, and a four-room brick addition was constructed (and is still is use today). Boardman High School occupied only one room of the ‘new,’ eight room school.
      Up until 1911, Boardman High School was known as a ‘third rate school.’ It became a ‘second rate’ high school in 1911 with a two-year course of study, and then earned distinction as a ‘first rate’ school with the opening of the 1917-18 school year, having a four year course of study.
      The year before, in 1916, eight more rooms, a gymnasium and an auditorium were constructed.
      School year 1917-18 was the first year that Boardman High School graduated it first class as a four year school, a single student.
      That graduate was Effie Burke, the daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Edward Burke, and one of eight Burke children to graduate from Boardman.
      As Walters noted as decade later, “Mr. and Mrs. Burke have the distinction of having the largest number of children graduated from Boardman High School.”
      At that time, Boardman High School was located in the “Boardman Rural School District.”
      A decade later, in 1928, Boardman High School graduated 34 students, and by that time, according to a report in The Mahoning Messenger, “Athletics played a prominent part in school activities. In the last several years, Boardman has won 30 championships in football, basketball and track.”
      The Boardman music program was then well underway and gaining a reputation, after first being organized by J.M. Minteer in 1922.
      Total enrollment at the high school in 1928 was 153 students, and with enrollment ‘skyrocketing,’ the school board approved $125,000 to build a two-story addition to the high school that included seven classrooms on each floor, and a ventilation system.
      In 1935, Boardman High School officially adopted the nickname of Spartans, after a contest sponsored by the school newspaper. Submitting the winning name was Joseph Diehm.
      Available records indicate Boardman High School had 17 students in the class of 1944 who never graduated due to service in World War II. They were Loran Anderson, Tony Andio, Jim Cicchillo, Julius Fidram, Jack Graft, Donald Gustafson, William Metz, Jack Mincher, Byron Sweeney and Earle Weichman, U.S. Army; Albert Charlton and Randall Henderson, U.S. Marines; and Richard Frame, Carl Kleyn and John Semko, U.S. Navy. 102 students received diplomas from Boardman High School that year.
      Following World War II, Boardman Township experienced rapid growth, spurred by the construction of the Greater Boardman Plaza by Edward J. DeBartolo in the early 1950s. The Boardman School building that housed all of Boardman’s public school students became overcrowded and the school board decided to ‘decentralize,’ resulting in the construction of Market St., West Blvd., Stadium Dr. and Robinwood Lane Elementary Schools during the 1950s, and Glenwood Jr. High School in 1961.
      In 1969, a new Boardman High School was opened at 7777 Glenwood Ave. Total enrollment in the Boardman Local Schools at that time was 6,402, a high water mark of sorts for attendance in the local, public schools.
      With the opening of the 2017-18 school year, current enrollment in Boardman Local Schools is 4,210 students, including 326 members of the senior class. Teachers don’t make $35/month, it’s more like $35/hour, if not more!
      A Boardman Celebrate 100 Committee has been formed and has planned three events to commemorate the 100th anniversary of Boardman High School, including a celebration of athletics Sept. 22-23; and celebrations of arts and music, and academics later this school year.
      Fifty years ago, Boardman High School observed its 50th anniversary. It was then that Dorothy McCall Ross, a member of the BHS Class of 1936, offered this reminiscence:
      “We were before the pill and the population explosion which, inexplicably went hand-in-hand. We were before television, before penicillin, polio shots, antibiotics and frisbees---before frozen food, nylon, xerox and Kinsey. We were before radar, fluorescent lights, credit cards and ballpoint pens. For us, time-sharing meant togetherness, not computers; a chip meant a piece of wood; hardware mean hardware, and software wasn’t even a word.
      “In those days bunnies were small rabbits, and rabbits were not Volkswagons. We were before Frank Sinatra and Grandma Moses. We before Batman, Grapes of Wrath, Rudolph the Red Nose Reindeer and Snoopy. We were before scotch tape, disposable diapers, M&Ms and the ‘automatic shift.’
      “When we were in college, pizzas, Cheeriois, frozen orange juice, instant coffee and McDonalds were unheard of.
      “We thought fast food was what you ate during Lent.
      “We were before FM radio, stereo, tape recorders, electric typewriters, word processors, and disco dancing. Almost no one flew across country and trans-Atlantic flight belonged to Lindberg and Earhart. We were before Israel, the United nations, before India, Pakistan, Indonesia, Iceland and the Philippines were independent nations.
      “Since our graduation (in 1936), 92 countries have come into being...
      “We were before pantyhose and drip dry clothes, before ice makers and dish washers, clothes dryers, freezers and electric blankets, before Hawaii and Alaska became states.
      “We were before Leonard Bernstein, yogurt, Ann Landers, plastics, hair dryers, the 40-hour work week, the minimum age. We got married first, then lived together. How quaint can you get?
      “In our day, cigarette smoking was fashionable, grass was mowed, coke was something you drank and pot was something you cooked in.
      “We were before coin vending machines, jet planes, helicopters and interstate highways. Schools were segregated and blacks could not play in the Major Leagues. In the 30’s, ‘made in Japan’ meant junk.
      “In our time, five-and-ten-cent stores were where you could buy things for five and ten cents. For just one nickle you could ride the rolley, make a phone call or buy a Coke. Or, you could buy enough stamps to mail one letter and two postcards. You could buy a Chevy for $659, but couldn’t afford it...a pity since gasoline was 11-cents-a-gallon.
      “If anyone asked you to explain CIA, NATO, UFO, NFL, EPA or IUD we would have said “alphabet soup.” We were not before the difference in sexes was discovered; but before sex changes.
      “We just had to do with what we had and what we knew.”
      email comments to bnews@zoominternet.net
      or submit a letter to Boardman News,
      8302 Southern Blvd., Boardman, Oh., 44512.
     
      PICTURED: Boardman High School was first located in this eight room building that first stood near 7330 Market St., the current site of the law offices of Ingram & Ingram. It was moved south near the current site of Center
      Intermediate School in 1911. At that time, the ‘high school’ occupied just one room of the building.
  Man Charged With Assaulting Two Boardman Policemen Was On Probation For Nov., 2015 Attack On Youngstown Cop  
  Judge Sweeney Claimed ‘Non-Prison Sanction’ Would Adequately ‘Protect The Public’:   August 3, 2017 Edition  
      A 20-year-old Roche Way man, Michael West, who has been charged with assaulting two Boardman police officers on July 23, had been arrested in Nov. 2015 in Youngstown where he was also charged with assaulting a police officer.
      West appeared in Boardman Court last week, where he entered a plea of not guilty to the assault charges and was given legal counsel at public cost.
      Back in 2015, West also received a court-appointed lawyer, and on Mar. 21, 2016 he entered a plea of guilty to assaulting Youngstown policeman Jacob Short, and escaped a jail sentence when Mahoning County Common Pleas Judge Maureen Sweeney imposed a sentence of two years of community control, noting if West violated the term of the sentence, a parole board “may impose a prison sentence” of up to 18 months.
      Short missed work time due to injuries suffered when trying to arrest West.
      About seven months later, West was back before Judge Sweeney for violating the terms of his probation.
      The judge doubled its community control sanctions on West, ordering the man to be monitored by the Adult Parole Authority for a period of four years. He was also ordered to serve 30 days in jail.
      While on the probation for the 2015 assault on the Youngstown policeman, West fought on July 23 with Boardman police officers Evan Beil and Michael Manis, who had been called to the Sylvia Lane area on a 3:00 a.m. call of a man pounding on the window of a residence.
      When Officer Beil located West in the Sylvia Lane neighborhood, the policeman said West was “screaming about Jesus and when he spotted the patrol car, he began to rapidly approach me screaming ‘shoot me, fu..ing shoot me’ at the top of his lungs.”
      According to Beil, West tried to run away, and was then hit twice with tasers.
      “He grabbed the taser wires and ripped them from his chest and again began to flee on foot,” Beil said.
      According to the officer, West abruptly stopped running and turned towards Beil with both fists raised and assumed a boxing position.
      At this point, Ptl. Manis arrived on the scene, as Beil was now fighting with West. After a struggle, Beil and Manis managed to gain control of West, who was placed into handcuffs, a spit shield and also placed in leg shackles.
      Despite the restraints, police said that West continue to struggle with them. He was eventually “secured’ to an ambulance cart and taken to a hospital.
      Beil and Manis also went to a hospital for treatment of their injuries.
      West claimed he had been high on LSD at the time of his encounter with Boardman police.
      West has been lodged in the Mahoning County Jail since July 25.
      When West escaped a jail sentence back in Mar., 2016 (for the Nov., 2015 assault on a Youngstown police officer), Judge Sweeney said “A non-prison sanction does not demean the seriousness of the offense, and a non-prison sanction will adequately punish [West] and protect the public...Factors decreasing seriousness outweigh those increasing seriousness and there is less likelihood of recidivism.”
  Boardman Park Will Seek 6/10-Mil Levy Approval  
  Issue Will Help Provide Funds For Equipment, Capital Improvements:   August 3, 2017 Edition  
     On the Nov. 7 general election ballot, Boardman Park will seek approval of a renewal of an existing three-tenths-mil levy, with an increase of three-tenths of a mil for a total request of six-tenths of a mil.
      The existing three-tenths mil levy was first approved in 1980 and generates $228,000 per year, which represents 17 per cent of the park’s annual income
      If approved, the increase of three-tenths of a mil will generate $279,000 per year, that will be earmarked specifically for capital improvements and equipment.
      In support of the additional request, the Boardman Park Board of Commissioners (Joyce Mistovich, Trent Cailor and Ken Goldsboro) has adopted a resolution mandating that revenue generated by the increase will be strictly used for capital improvements and equipment.
      “The park’s board of commissioners adopted a master plan for the park district in 2002, and in step with that plan, the board has carefully considered necessary capital improvements and equipment requirements of the district and [has developed a plan for the future] with a total estimated cost of $3 million,” Executive Director Daniel N. Slagle Jr. said, adding the park will seek donations and grants to supplement the revenue generated by the additional three-tenths of a mil.
      According to Slagle, the renewal of the existing three-tenths mil levy will cost about $7.35/year or just two cents a day per $100,000 property valuation; and the three-tenths mil additional will cost about $10.50/year or just three cents a day per $100,000 property valuation.
      “If approved, the total cost of both issues will be $17.85/year or five cents/day per $100,000 of property valuation,” the executive director said.
      While essentially operating on a one-mil levy since it was founded in 1947, the number of park visitors has dramatically increased. The 227 contiguous acre park is now used by over 450,000 visitors per year.
      The total amount of revenue generated by tax levies is $878,868, that represents 65 per cent of the park’s annual income.
      During Slagle’s tenure, 21 capital projects have been completed, which reflects over $6 million invested in the park. The primary funding source for each of these accomplishments has been private donations and government grants. “Approximately 80 per cent of the funding for these capital improvement projects has been generated by grant monies and donations,” Slagle said.
      Boardman Park maintains 227 acres of land, including 60 acres for active recreational purposes and preserves 167 acres preserved as undisturbed natural habitat.
      In addition. Boardman Park also maintains and preserves 63 acres of greenspace at several locations in Boardman Township.
  CRWC Donates Scholarship To YSU Foundation For Female ROTC Cadet  
  August 3, 2017 Edition  
CRWC Committee Members Sarah Keeler, Holly Deibel and YSU Foundation President, Paul McFadden
      The Canfield Republican Women’s Club Committee, “Caring for America”, has donated a scholarship for the 3rd consecutive year. The Award is given to a female cadet, based on her leadership abilities.
      If you want to be ready for anything that the world throws at you, join ROTC. With the leadership and management skills gained by adding Army ROTC training to your individual major, you’ll be prepared for a successful civilian or Army career. Students in ROTC learn through a unique program that involves both classroom and “live” situations. For instance, an ROTC cadet might be found leading classmates through adventure training, down a wall during rappelling, or during a lab geared towards first aid.
      In college and after graduation, cadets find that the training and experience they have received are assets, whether pursuing an Army or civilian career. Employers place high regard on the management and leadership skills that ROTC instructors stress. Plus, ROTC looks great on a resume. When cadets complete the ROTC course, upon graduation, they become commissioned officers in the U.S. Army.
      The ultimate goal for ROTC is to commission cadets as 2nd Lieutenants in the U.S. Army. YSU ROTC expands a student’s education by providing leadership and management experience. This training helps students develop self-discipline, physical stamina and poise—qualities basic to success in any worthwhile career.
      The CRWC is very proud to once again present this scholarship to the YSU Foundation and it will be awarded in the spring. We are honored to be a part of helping America’s future.
      PICTURED: ‘Caring for America’, a Canfield Republican Women’s Club Committee recently donated a scholarship to the YSU Foundation to be awarded in the spring to a YSU ROTC female cadet based on her leadership abilities. Pictured, left to right, members of the CRWC committee, Sarah Keeler, Holly Deibel, and YSU Foundation President, Paul McFadden.
  LEGAL NOTICE  
  August 3, 2017 Edition  
     IN THE DISTRICT COURT
      OF JOHNSON COUNTY, KANSAS DIVISION 15
      IN THE MATTER OF THE ADOPTION OF
      DILLON R. HOLMES
      Case No. 17 AD 54
      A Minor Child Under 18 Years of Age
      NOTICE OF HEARING ON PETITION
      FOR ADOPTION
      ARCHIE L. HOLMES AND
      TO ALL PERSONS CONCERNED:
      You are hereby notified that on the 5th day of April, 2017, Petitioner, Randall B. Peterson, filed in this Court a Petition for Adoption of Dillon R. Holmes, a minor, whose date of birth is October 19, 1999, and for change of the name of the minor child to Dillon R. Peterson. This Court, located at 100 N. Kansas Ave., Olathe, KS 66061 3273, will hear the Petition on the 29th day of August, 2017 at 11:30 a.m. Failure to respond will result in judgment being rendered as prayed for in the Petition. Govern yourselves accordingly.
      SUBMITTED BY:
      _/s/ Monte L, Miller___________________
      MONTE L. MILLER, K.S.C. #11983
      Miller & Miller, Chtd.
      702 Commercial, Suite II-B
      Emporia, Kansas 66801
      (620) 343-2650
      FAX No. (620) 343-9357
      Counsel for Petitioner
  Nicholas Ciarniello Hired As Treasurer At Boardman Schools  
  July 27, 2017 Edition  
Nicholas Ciarniello
      Meeting on Monday night, the Boardman Board of Education approved Nicholas E. Ciarniello as the system new treasurer. He replaces L. Greg Slemons who resigned in January to assume a position with the Youngstown City School District.
      Ciarniello, 28, earned a bachelor of science degree in business administration with a major in accounting on Dec., 2012 from Youngstown State University, and earned his Ohio School treasurer’s License at Ashland University.
      He will assume his duties on Aug. 14.
      Ciarniello will join the Boardman Local Schools after a short employment with the national Industrial Lumber Co., in Hartville, Oh., where he served as an analyst and accounts payable specialist.
      He was employed from Mar, 2014 through Mar., 2017 with Rea and Associates in Medina, Oh., where he served as the incharge government auditor, where he had experience in the fiscal operations of school districts, and performed audits over accounting and financial reporting procedures.
      He also served as an accountant in the offices of Steve Shelton Inc., in Youngstown.
      Ciarnello’s starting annual salary with will be about $70,000.
      “After a thorough and painstaking search, Boardman has found a detail-oriented candidate in Nick Ciarniello, said Superintendent Tim Saxton. “I am impressed by his enthusiasm and fiscal knowledge and believe he will support the district’s goal of fiscal responsibility.”
      “I am honored to be selected as Boardman Local School’s next treasurer. I look forward to being a part of such a strong leadership team as they continue to move the district forward,” Ciarniello said.
      Boardman Local Schools receive $43.9 million from all funding sources (federal, state, and local); and lose about $820,000 a year to charter school funding, and another $1.03 million to open enrollment.
  Two Officers Engage Man Who Said He Was High On LSD  
  July 27, 2017 Edition  
     July 23: Disorderly conduct, obstruction, resisting arrest and assaulting police officers, 3925 Sylvia Lane. Shortly after 3:00 a.m., police were sent to the home to investigate a claim that someone was pounding on a window. Ptl. Evan Beil and Ptl. Michael Manis located a 20-year-old man identified as Mike West near the intersection of Hopkins Rd. and Midlothian Blvd. Officer Beil said when he approached the man, he was “screaming about Jesus” and then began to approach his cruiser screaming “Shoot me...shoot me,” while clenching his fists. Officer Beil said he drew his taser and ordered the suspect to desist “when he immediately turned around with his back facing me and concealed his hands near his waistband.” The policeman said he then drew his gun and the suspect began to flee. A short foot pursuit ended when the suspect turned around and began to approach Officer Beil, ignoring verbal commands to stop. The policeman then tasered the man, “causing him to collapse.” However, the suspect grabbed the taser wire from his chest and again began to flee on foot with Officer Beil in pursuit. All of a sudden, Officer Beil said that West stopped, began to scream profanities, then raised both his fists and assumed a boxing position and “began to sprint towards me.” A fist-fight ensued, an intense fight, and eventually Officer Beil and Officer Manis were able to secure West in handcuffs. The man was then placed in hobble restraints, and a spit shield was placed over his face. Officer Beil reported that West “continued his belligerent behavior and began to scream how he had taken drugs.” Another policeman on the scene, Ptl. Daryn Tallman, said West was taken to St. Elizabeth Hospital in Youngstown. A warrant was issued for his arrest. Officer Beil and Officer Manis went to St. Elizabeth Hospital in Boardman for treatment of injuries they received in the struggle with West. “During the struggle with West, we could hear him yell out that people were trying to kill him, and that he was already dead. He also said he did some LSD with someone on Risher Rd.,” Officer Tallman said. Note: Officer Manis was treated for a knee injury. Officer Beil reported pain in his neck and abrasions to his elbows, knees and knuckles. He noted, “After inspecting my equipment, I discovered blood on my uniform shirt and pants, and covering my portable radio. Additionally, my uniform shirts and pants were torn, the toes of my boots had deep scrapes. The radio was placed into a bio-hazard bag and logged as evidence, and the shirt and pants were later disposed of.” On July 25, West, unemployed, of 78 Roche Way, was arrested upon his release from the hospital and charged with two counts of assaulting a police officer, one count of obstruction and one count of resisting arrest. He was lodged in the Mahoning County Jail on a bond of $11,750.
     
  Jim Wilson Served From 1987-1996  
  Fire Chief Did Not Favor Elimination Of Volunteers:   July 20, 2017 Edition  
James Wilson Sr.
     Fire Chief James E. ‘Jim’ Wilson Sr., 71, died Wednesday morning, July 12 after a brief illness.
      He served as Boardman Township Fire Chief from 1987 to 1996 when medical issues forced him into retirement.
      Chief Wilson provided oversight of the Boardman Fire Department when full-time manpower doubled, and under union pressure, volunteer fire personnel in the township disappeared and were phased out. He did not favor the elimination of volunteer fire-fighters.
      In 1992, he stood in staunch support of St. James Episcopal Church that saw their water rates jump by more than 250 per cent when a contractor installed a larger than needed water meter to provide service to the church. He fought to have a smaller meter installed, saving the church money on its water bills.
      Chief Wilson served the taxpayers, as well as the firemen he led. For example, when a hard-core pornography business, Video Expo, sought to operate on Boardman-Poland Rd., Chief Wilson helped to galvanize opposition to the business, and coupled with strong enforcement of fire codes, the business was forced to close.
      “If a resident, or anyone else has a question about fire protection, they are welcome to call me directly. If I can’t help them, I’ll help them find an answer,” Chief Wilson once observed.
      Chief Wilson joined the Boardman Fire Department in 1973, under the guidance of former Chief Don Cover.
      Upon his retirement, he then worked for Youngstown State University in parking services from 2001 until 2016.
      He was a 1965 graduate of Ursuline High School, where he lettered in football. He then earned his Associate Degree in Fire Science from the University of Akron in 1983.
      Chief Wilson served in the U.S. Marine Corps from 1965 to 1969. He earned the rank of staff sergeant and completed two tours in the Vietnam Conflict, where he earned the Combat Action Ribbon, the Navy Union Commendation Medal, the National Defense Service Medal, the Vietnam Service Medal, the Vietnam Cross Gallantry and the Vietnam Civil Actions Medal.
      He was an active member of St. Charles Church, where he was the maintenance supervisor from 1980 to 1987, past president of the Booster Club, a coach of various sports teams and was a Third Degree in the Knights of Columbus, Father Daniel Venglarik Council No. 11915 and a Fourth Degree in the Knights of Columbus Msgr. Lettau Council No. 2596.
      He also was a member of the International Association of Fire-Fighters, Police and Fire Retirees, and was a past president of the Boardman Local Firefighters Union No. 1176.
      He had many passions throughout his life. He enjoyed traveling with his wife throughout the United States and abroad, attending Austintown Fitch basketball games and Cardinal Mooney football games, and he especially loved spending time with his grandchildren and attending their events.
      He leaves his wife of over 47 years, the former Carol Curtis, whom he married Nov. 22, 1969; three children, James E. Jr. (Jamie) Wilson of New Middletown, Jeffrey (Jennifer) Wilson of Boardman and Carrie (Tony) Meranto of Canfield; five grandchildren, Anthony and Maria Meranto, Emma, Ella and Patrick Wilson; a sister, Norene Gantt of California; and his beloved Golden Retriever, Rosie.
      He was born June 9, 1946, in Youngstown, the son of Robert and Catherine (McCormick) Wilson, and was a lifelong area resident.
      In lieu of flowers. material contributions may be made in Chief Wilson’s name to the Third Degree Knights of Columbus, Father Daniel Venglarik Council No. 11915, c/o St. Charles Church, 7345 Westview Drive, Boardman, Oh., 44512.
  Jay Dana Back In Court  
  July 20, 2017 Edition  
     FORMER CENTER MIDDLE SCHOOL teacher and athletic coach, Jay Dana, 60, of Ft. Myers, Fla., was jailed last week in Mahoning County over allegations he violated the terms of his probation imposed in 2015 when he was convicted sexual battery charges in the courtroom of Judge Maureen Sweeney. Dana, who faced upwards of 11 years in jail if convicted, was given a 75-day jail sentence. Upon completion of the sentence, he moved to Florida, where it is claimed he violated the terms of his probation when he left his residence without his monitoring device. The Boardman News was told that Dana had been warned several times not to leave his home without the device. A hearing on the matter has been set for 9:00 a.m. on Aug. 11. Dana, who is represented by Atty. J. Gerald Ingram, Esq. will remain in jail until that time. His original charges involved allegations of date rape brought forward by three woman. Unrelated to those charges, on Christmas Day, 2015, Dana’s second wife, Michelle, was found dead in their Columbiana, Oh. home. Dana told the Columbiana County Sheriff’s Department the two had been playing “a drinking game.”
  LEGAL NOTICE  
  July 20, 2017 Edition  
     IN THE DISTRICT COURT
      OF JOHNSON COUNTY, KANSAS DIVISION 15
      IN THE MATTER OF THE ADOPTION OF
      DILLON R. HOLMES
      Case No. 17 AD 54
      A Minor Child Under 18 Years of Age
      NOTICE OF HEARING ON PETITION
      FOR ADOPTION
      ARCHIE L. HOLMES AND
      TO ALL PERSONS CONCERNED:
      You are hereby notified that on the 5th day of April, 2017, Petitioner, Randall B. Peterson, filed in this Court a Petition for Adoption of Dillon R. Holmes, a minor, whose date of birth is October 19, 1999, and for change of the name of the minor child to Dillon R. Peterson. This Court, located at 100 N. Kansas Ave., Olathe, KS 66061 3273, will hear the Petition on the 29th day of August, 2017 at 11:30 a.m. Failure to respond will result in judgment being rendered as prayed for in the Petition. Govern yourselves accordingly.
      SUBMITTED BY:
      _/s/ Monte L, Miller___________________
      MONTE L. MILLER, K.S.C. #11983
      Miller & Miller, Chtd.
      702 Commercial, Suite II-B
      Emporia, Kansas 66801
      (620) 343-2650
      FAX No. (620) 343-9357
      Counsel for Petitioner
  LEGAL NOTICE  
  July 20, 2017 Edition  
     Boardman Schools Saves Money
      Through “Retire/Rehire” Program
      As part of the current negotiated agreements between the Boardman Board of Education and its unions (the Ohio Association of Public School Employees Chapter #334 and the Boardman Education Association) an employee may retire from the Boardman Local School District and be immediately rehired for less pay and benefits. There are substantial savings to the Board of Education for each employee who elects to participate in this opportunity. The Boardman Local School District has saved over $4,000,000 since instituting this program ten years ago. At this time, employees wishing to participate in this option can retire and be re-employed for the next calendar year.
      The employees listed below have indicated their intent to take part in this option for the next calendar year. This action will occur at the August 28, 2017 Board of Education Meeting.
      Richard Nelson
      Any citizen interested in hearing more details about this provision in the negotiated agreement or wishing to speak before the Board of Education regarding this matter may do so at the July Board of Education meeting. This public meeting will be held on Monday, July 24, 2017 6:30 p.m. at Center Intermediate School.
     
  Boardman Trustees File Petitions for Re-Election  
  July 13, 2017 Edition  
     INCUMBENT BOARDMAN TRUSTEES BRAD CALHOUN (LEFT) AND TOM COSTELLO (RIGHT) filed petitions for re-election with the Mahoning County Board of Elections on Wednesday morning. Calhoun was elected Trustee on November 3, 2009 and re-elected in 2013 for a second four year term ending December 31. Tom Costello was also elected Trustee in November 2009. He had previously served as township trustee from December 1999 through 2005.
  Driver Charged In Horrific Jan. 10 Fatal Crash May Not Go To Trial  
  Negotiations Underway To Reach Plea Agreement:   July 13, 2017 Edition  
     A 32-year-old Boardman woman still awaits trial on a charge of aggravated vehicular homicide in the death of a 23-year-old woman on Tues., Jan 10.
      Nicole Mitchell has been lodged in the Mahoning County Jail since Jan. 11. She faces a variety of other charges, including fleeing a police officer and driving under the influence of drugs or alcohol.
      Mitchell, of 125 Argyle Ave., was driving a Honda that police believe fled from them after a reported shoplifting incident at Walgreens, 7295 Market St., about 1:00 a.m. on Jan. 10.
      After a brief pursuit that was called off due to icy road conditions, the Honda was found by police near the corner of Zedaker and Compton Lane in Youngstown, just a short distance away from Duvall’s home.
      Police and witness reports indicated the Honda was driven by Mitchell and struck some type of barrier and flipped, and Duvall was seen hanging out of the car, leaving a 10-ft. trail of blood along its path.
      Former Mahoning County Deputy Coroner, Dr. Joseph Ohr, said that Duvall died of “devastating head and neck injuries” when the car rolled onto its side, leaving Duvall underneath the vehicle as it was sliding along the road.
      Police indicate Mitchell fled from the crash scene and was found a short distance away, hiding under a plastic swimming pool with the keys to the Honda still in her possession.
      Toxicology tests showed the drugs were found in Mitchell, as well as Duvall.
      Indications are that Mitchell will never go to trial on the charges, and negotiations have been ongoing in an attempt to reach a plea agreement.
      Mitchell is represented by one of the Mahoning Valley’s top defense attorneys, J. Gerald Ingram.
      Representing the Mahoning County Prosecutor’s Office is Atty. Marybeth DiGravio.
      On Mar. 22, according to court records, Mitchell “irrevocably” waived her rights to a speedy trial. On June 21, Judge Jack Durkin said that negotiations were ongoing and the matter was reset for a final pre-trial hearing on July 5, and then Judge Durkin continued the case and set the case for a hearing on Mon., July 17.
      Police believe Duvall stole $86.99 worth of merchandise, including $26.99 worth of diapers, and ten units of deodorant from Walgreen’s during the early morning hours of Jan. 10. She got into a car driven by Mitchell and died in the traffic crash less than an hour later.
      Court records also show that Mitchell, also known as Nicole Miladore, was arrested in May, 2010 on felony charges of tampering with drugs and possession of drugs.
      She told the court she had no money and received court-appointed counsel, at public cost.
      Three months after her arrest, the court amended the drug charge to aggravated menacing “to benefit [Mitchell/Miladore] because she is receiving federal financial aid and would lose that if she if convicted of a drug offense.” That same day, Aug. 4, 2010, Mitchell/Miladore entered a plea of guilty to the menacing charge.
      She was sentenced by Mahoning County Common Pleas Judge Lou D’Apolito to serve six months in the county jail and given credit for serving one day in jail. According to court records, Mitchell/Miladore’s remaining jail time was suspended and she was placed on non-reporting probation.
      In Sept., 2008, Mitchell/Miladore was charged with trafficking in drugs and trafficking in marihuana, both felony offenses. She received a court-appoint attorney for those charges that were reduced to misdemeanor ‘attempted trafficking’ charges by Judge Charles J. Bannon and she was found guilty of one count of attempted trafficking and received no jail time.
      Judge Bannon ruled “The court finds...under the circumstances of this case, a non jail sanction is appropriate and the defendant should be placed on a period of community control...A term of 180 days in the county jail [is suspended...Defendant is not to violate any laws...is no to cause harm or threat of harm to any persons or property...”
  FBI Agent Todd Werth Named To Succeed Retiring Boardman Police Chief Jack Nichols  
  July 6, 2017 Edition  
Special Agent Todd D. Werth
     Boardman Township Trustees rejected five applicants from within their own police department and announced last Friday they will hire an FBI agent to be the community’s next chief of police.
      Current Police Chief Jack Nichols, who has served since Sept. 9, 2009, will end a 40-year career with the Boardman Police Department Jan. 6, 2018.
      Special Agent Todd D. Werth, 52, who has served with the FBI for 19 years, has been tapped to succeed Chief Nichols, heading a department of 62 officers and six administrative personnel. His annual salary has yet to be determined.
      Werth was among a dozen applicants for the police chief’s post. Applicants from within the BPD included Sgt. Glenn Riddle, Det. Rick Balog, School Resource Officer C.F. Hillman Jr., Narcotics Enforcement Unit Commander Sgt. Mike Hughes and Sgt. John Allsopp. Also interviewed for the position was a former Boardman policeman and current special agent and supervisor of the Northeast District of the Ohio Bureau of Criminal Identification, James Ciotti.
      Sgt. Riddle, along with former Youngstown Police Department Chief Rod Foley, and Werth were chosen as the three finalists considered for the Boardman chief’s post by Trustees Thomas Costello, Brad Calhoun and Larry Moliterno.
      The three finalists for the chief’s position were interviewed twice by Trustees, and among the topics raised during that process was civil service, first instituted in Boardman Township in the late 1970’s. Civil service creates hiring and promotion standards for police officers.
      When instituted in Boardman Township, civil service’s main impact was to eliminate, or reduce politics in the hiring of police officers.
      When asked about civil service last Friday, none of Boardman Township’s trustees said they favored the process. Trustees Costello and Moliterno said they were ‘unsure’ about civil service, and Trustee Calhoun said “I am not a fan of civil service.”
      As the township’s future police chief, Werth said he favored civil service, saying “the process sets us up for success.”
      Since it was instituted, civil service operates under a three-member commission with little oversight by the trustees who appoint its members. It has led to some instances where some suggest that standards for civil service promotional tests have been diluted to exclude qualified candidates.
      Additionally, the township’s civil service commission oversees the hiring of new police officers. Candidate lists for new hires have been substantially dropping over the past decade.
      Chairman of Boardman’s Civil Service Commission is a former FBI agent, Gary West, who strongly supported Werth’s bid for the police chief’s post.
      The Boardman Township Police Department officers and administrative staff operate under at least three bargaining units.
      At the press conference last Friday, Werth said union members “want to be heard.” He said dealing with unions “will be a learning curve for me,” noting the Township Board of Trustees and Administrator Jason Loree will guide him through the process of negotiations.
      Werth said he was humbled to be named Boardman Township’s next police chief. He said he has lived in the township for the past 19 years and wanted to be a part of the police department “that has a big impact upon our community,” noting the police department “is very well supported.”
      Werth is a native of western new York, graduating in 1991 summa cum laude from Niagara University with a bachelor of science degree in criminal justice. He is currently completing requirements for a masters degree in criminal justice at Youngstown State University.
      Since 2013 he has served as supervisory special agent with the FBIs local office headquartered on Sahara Trail In Boardman. That office covers Trumbull, Mahoning and Columbiana Counties.
      From May, 2009 to April, 2013, Werth served as an FBI training officer based out of Cleveland.
      Werth began his career with the FBI in Dec., 1997 and as an agent his case experience included leading or assisting with significant investigations involving public corruption, white collar crime, organized crime, gang and drug matters, violent crime incidents and domestic and international terrorism matters.
      Werth is a U.S. Army veteran, serving from Jan., 1988 to Dec. 1997. A captain upon his discharge from the service, his final assignment brought him to Ft. George G. Meade, Md. as a logistics officer with the 902 Military Intelligence Group where he was responsible for budgeting, logistics and facility management for a counter intelligence unit on the base of some 400 active military and civilian members.
      Werth is a 1998 graduate of the FBI Academy.
      As an FBI agent, he has served brief tours of duty in Iraq as well as Afghanistan.
      From May to July, 2005, Werth was part of a five-member team that helped to train 50 Iraqi police officers in a variety of areas, including lawful interviewing and interrogation strategies and public corruption investigations.
      From January to April, 2007, he was deployed to Afghanistan as an embedded member of a U.S. Army special forces team along the Afghanistan/Pakistan border, helping to collect information and intelligence related to threats to the United States or American citizens abroad. While there, he also helped in training local police and Afghani army personnel in accepted law enforcement skills.
      Werth must complete Ohio Police Officer Training Academy (OPOTA) courses in order to become a certified peace officer in the state of Ohio, or otherwise must purely serve as an administrative chief of the police department.
      Werth indicated last Friday, he intends to pursue OPOTA certification.
      Werth and his wife are the parents of two daughters who attend Boardman Local Schools. Werth has been active in youth basketball programs in Boardman, and is a member of the Boardman Lions Club. Since 2013 he has been a member of the Mahoning Valley Chiefs of Police Association. In 2016, he joined the Crime Clinic of Greater Youngstown.
  Akron Children’s $20 Million Beeghly Campus Expansion Project Set To Open Tues., July 11  
  June 22, 2017 Edition  
      In its continuing mission to provide high-quality pediatric care for children in the Mahoning Valley, Akron Children’s Hospital/Boardman will open a new two-story addition for patients on July 11.
      The $20-million construction project adds more than 51,000 square feet to the current Beeghly campus.
      “We’re committed to ensuring that children in the Valley receive the care they need, close to home, and this expansion helps us further fulfill that promise,” said Bill Considine, Akron Children’s president and CEO. “It’s a promise that began in 2002 when we opened the Heart Center and then the Beeghly campus six years later. We’re invested in our communities and the expansion represents another significant step toward offering patient families the quality pediatric care they’ve come to expect from Akron Children’s.”
      The new addition includes 47 exam rooms, including subspecialty and primary care, plus several support testing rooms.
      The expansion enables the hospital to relocate services to the Beeghly campus, making it convenient for patient families to receive care. These services include allergy, cardiology, genetics, neonatology, nephrology, neurology, orthopedics, physiatry, plastic and reconstructive surgery, pulmonology, sports medicine, and urology, along with an additional innovative space for sports rehabilitation. Akron Children’s Hospital Pediatrics/Boardman will also move into the new addition.
      The building includes elements both children and parents will appreciate. The glassed-in entryway includes a whimsical, 3D sculpture called The Dreaming Tree. The 2-story sculpture was designed by Adam May from Hasenstab Architects and Tony Nicholas from Artists of the Rust Belt, in conjunction with Freshmade 3D. The sculpture quite literally brings the building’s theme, “Reconnecting with Nature,” to life. Large photography pieces of Mill Creek MetroParks are located throughout the building, intermixed with 25 photography pieces from Akron Children’s employees and 150 pieces of original artwork from local school children.
      A colorful ball machine, beloved by kids of all ages in Akron Children’s Hospital’s Akron location, makes an appearance within the expansion as well, offering a playful reprieve for patient families visiting the space.
      “We had several goals with this project, including enhancing access to services for patient families, increasing our primary care capacity, relocating our specialty services from the Boardman Medical Pavilion to our Beeghly campus, and consolidating our clinics to one location,” said Sharon Hrina, vice president, Akron Children’s Hospital Mahoning Valley. “We’re honored to be able to serve families here in the Mahoning Valley, and this expansion helps us do that even more effectively.”
      The project was funded through the hospital’s capital budget and philanthropic support from the local community.
      As part of the Vision for Our Valley’s Children Campaign, donors have created a legacy of caring for the area’s children through their contributions. These efforts are recognized on a donor wall that includes interactive features acknowledging those who’ve supported the hospital.
      Additionally, 42 donors representing gifts of $3.7 million towards the Vision for Our Valley’s Children Campaign are recognized with naming opportunities in the new building, including gifts of $50,000 or more. from the following donors:
       •John S. and Doris M. Andrews Foundation
       •Bruce and Nancy Beeghly
       •Ward Beecher and Florence Simon Beecher Foundation
       •Boardman Subaru/Fellman Family
       •John D. Finnegan Foundation
       •Frank and Pearl Gelbman Foundation
       •Jane F. Lamb Charitable Foundation
       •Estate of Carolyn R. Maresky
       •William and Kathryn Challiss Pollock Personal Foundation
       •Reid and Judy Schmutz
       •Estate of Irene J. Slabodi
       •Sweeney Chevrolet Buick GMC
       •Woman’s Board of Youngstown
       •Youngstown Foundation
     
  LEGAL NOTICE  
  June 22, 2017 Edition  
     ADVERTISEMENT FOR BIDS
      Sealed proposals will be received by the Boards of Austintown, Boardman and Canfield Township Trustees until BID SUBMISSION DATE: 12:00 NOON, (BOARDMAN TIME) Monday June 26, 2017, @ the BOARDMAN TOWNSHIP ROAD DEPARTMENT, 8299 MARKET STREET, BOARDMAN, OHIO 44512, and opened and read aloud at 5:30 PM at the Boardman Township Trustees Board Meeting, 8299 Market Street, Boardman, Ohio 44512 for:
      2017 RESURFACING OF VARIOUS ROADS
      IN AUSTINTOWN, BOARDMAN AND
      CANFIELD TOWNSHIPS
      A copy of the plans and specifications may be obtained at the Boardman Township Fiscal Office or Boardman Township Road Department, 8299 Market Street, Boardman, Ohio 44512.
      For all bids in excess of $50,000.00, a certified check representing TEN percent (10%) of the proposal, drawn on a solvent bank, and payable to Boardman Township, or a bid bond in the sum of TEN percent (10%) of the proposal in lieu thereof must accompany each and every proposal as a guarantee that if the bid is accepted, a contract will be entered into with the Board of Township Trustees, in the manner provided by law.
      A performance bond in the amount of 100% of the contract price will be required after the award of the contract. However, if the item bid is available for immediate delivery and specified as such in the bid, a performance bond will not then be required.
      A payment bond in the amount of 100% of the estimated cost of the work conditioned for the payment by the Contractor and all Subcontractors for labor performed and materials furnished in connection with the project involved.
      Bids of Corporations not chartered in Ohio MUST be accompanied by proper certifications that such Corporation is licensed to do business in Ohio.
      Attention of the Bidder is directed to the requirements that each proposal must be accompanied by a non-collusion affidavit, properly executed by the Bidder. Further, the successful Bidder will be required to execute an affidavit required by Sec. 5719.042 of the Ohio Revised Code. No payment shall be made on any contract for which no such affidavit has been submitted.
      All Contractors and all subcontractors MUST be pre-qualified by ODOT in the specific work item they intend to perform.
      This project is partially funded by the Ohio Public Works Commission. All bidders shall comply with the prevailing wage rates as determined by the State of Ohio, Department of Commerce along with other provisions included within the contract documents that are applicable to Ohio Public Works Commission projects.
      Domestic Steel use requirements as specified in Section 153.011 of the Revised Code apply to this project. Copies of Section 153.011 of the revised Code can be obtained from any of the offices of the Department of Administrative Services. All steel products must meet the requirements of ODOT CMS 106.09.
      The contractor and all subcontractors for this project must be enrolled in the Ohio Bureau of Workers’ Compensation Drug Free Workplace Program or in a similar program approved by the Bureau of Workers’ Compensation. Any contractor that does not meet this requirement will have their bid deemed non-responsive and cannot be awarded the contract.
      The Boards of Township Trustees reserve the right to reject any or all bids and to waive informalities. In addition, the Boards of Township Trustees reserves the right to participate in state contracts which the Department of Administrative Services, Office of State Purchasing has entered into for the purchase of supplies, services, equipment and certain materials pursuant to Ohio Revised Code Section 125.04. No bids may be withdrawn for at least sixty (60) days after the opening thereof.
      Each bidder must insure that all employees and applicants for employment are not discriminated against because of race, color, sex or national origin.
      The Engineer’s Estimate is $1,017,000.00
      Clearly indicate the item being bid, as well as the name and address of the person or business submitting the bid, on the outside of the sealed envelope containing the bid.
      PLEASE NOTE:
      Entire Contract Book must be completed and returned intact. Failure to complete all forms contained in Bidding Documents may result in Bid being deemed irregular.
      BY ORDER OF THE BOARD OF AUSTINTOWN TOWNSHIP TRUSTEES
      LAURA L. WOLFE, FISCAL OFFICER
      BY ORDER OF THE BOARD OF BOARDMAN TOWNSHIP TRUSTEES
      WILLIAM D. LEICHT, FISCAL OFFICER
      BY ORDER OF THE BOARD OF CANFIELD TOWNSHIP TRUSTEES
      CARMEN HEASLEY, FISCAL OFFICER
  Could Man In Payson, Arizona Help To Solve The Mystery Of A Police Undercover Agent Who Disappeared 43 Years Ago?  
  John Robek Was Last Seen May 31, 1974:   by BY JOHN A. DARNELL JR. associate editor   June 8, 2017 Edition  
John Robek
     43 years ago, on Fri., May 31, 1974,
      24-year-old John Robek, a Youngstown Police Department undercover agent, left his Amherst Ave. home, supposedly to go hunting with a friend. Robek has never been seen since.
      John Robek, of 7033 Amherst Ave., was a 1968 graduate of Boardman High School. He went on to Youngstown State University, graduating in Dec., 1973, where he earned a bachelor of science degree in education.
      Following graduation from YSU, he applied for a teaching position with the Diocese of Youngstown and worked as an assistant manager in the men’s department of K-Mart in Austintown until Mar., 1974; while also working with a childhood friend Ken Swartz, a graduate of Cardinal Mooney High School, as bouncers at a then popular bar called The Apartment on Midlothian Blvd.
      It was at The Apartment that Robek and Swartz were approached by Youngstown police detective Jack Lynch. According to Robek’s family members, Lynch wanted Robek and Swartz to become paid police undercover agents, working in narcotics and illegal drug sales.
      According to Robek’s job application filed with the Diocese of Youngstown, he left K-Mart in Mar., 1974, to begin his undercover duties in Youngstown.
      Little more than two months later, Robek turned-up missing, and the mystery of his disappearance remains unsolved to this day.
      “What in God’s name did he get himself into,” a sister, Marty, who now lives in North Lima, asks, adding “The family would like some closure.”
      Another sister, Carol, who lives in Boardman, claims her brother’s old friend, Ken Swartz, “holds the key.”
      “John loved being undercover,” Carol recalled recently, adding “I feel in my soul, and I always felt that before I die, I will know what happened.”
      The day John Robek never returned home, May 31, 1974, caused much concern for his parents, John and Marian Robek.
      They tried to file a missing persons report the day their son didn’t come home but Lynch, Robek’s boss, put them off, telling them a missing persons report couldn’t be filed unless the person had been missing for at least 24 hours.
      So the next day, on June 1, 1974, Robek’s parents called Lynch, asking if they could file a missing persons report.
      Lynch, according to Robek’s father (who is now deceased, and who left at least two, lengthy statements about his son’s disappearance), said the report had to be filed with the Boardman Police Department.
      While speaking with Lynch, Mr. Robek asked the policeman if he had spoken with his son’s partner, Swartz?
      “He (Lynch) said he couldn’t speak with him because he (Swartz) was out shopping with his wife,” Mr. Robek said, noting “This seemed awfully strange to us, as Swartz’s partner was missing and (Lynch or Swartz) didn’t seem to be worried.”
      As instructed, Mr. Robek called the Boardman Police Department and on June 1. Ptl. Steve Balog went to the Amherst Ave. home to take a missing persons report.
      After Officer Balog took the report, Mr. Robek recalled then Boardman Police Chief Grant L. Hess “showed-up” at the home.
      “He said he knew John was working undercover...and he was taking charge of John’s case,” Mr. Robek said.
      But Balog, and another fellow Boardman police officer, Glenn Bowers, recall Chief Hess ‘seemed to’ suggest that Lynch would be in charge of investigating Robek’s disappearance.
      After Chief Hess’s visit, Mr. Robek said that his son’s boss, Lynch, came to the home “and said he wanted...John’s buy records. There were two books, one in which he was really interested. He took that book and a bag of marihuana,” Mr. Robek said. A copy of the second book of purported buy records made by Swartz and Robek, has been obtained by The Boardman News. The whereabouts of the book seized by Lynch has never been determined.
      While visiting the Robek home, according to John Robek’s father, Lynch told the parents their son and Swartz were “the best team he ever had...He said that John was straight and Swartz had been in trouble at times...He said there was a cloud over Swartz’s head, but went no further.”
      * * * * * * * * * *
      On May 31, 1974, Carol Robek, John’s sister, was at home when she says she saw Swartz pick-up her brother about 10:30 a.m. Reportedly Swartz and Robek were going out to Green Township to hunt groundhogs.
      Lynch claimed that Swartz had been questioned “repeatedly” and after hunting, he dropped Robek off at his home an hour later.
      In his journal about his son, Mr. Robek says a Det. Mike Landers from the Youngstown Police Department, once interviewed Lynch about Robek’s disappearance.
      “According to Det. Landers, Lynch said that no one saw John leave his house with Swartz,” Mr. Robek said, while pointing out his daughter, Carol, “contradicts this...She made it clear she saw them leave together.”
      Raising eyebrows about the hunting trip to Green Township, is the hour-long time frame. It is unlikely Robek and Swartz could drive from Boardman to Green Township, get out of their vehicle, walk through heavily wooded-areas, hunt, get back in their vehicle and then return to Boardman in one hour.
      Sources have said while hunting, Swartz recalls he and Robek may have shot one groundhog.
      John Robek’s father reported the day after his son went missing, he was reading the Youngstown Vindicator and noticed a classified ad, offering several guns for sale. According to Mr. Robek, the phone number listed in the advertisement belonged to Swartz.
      “Knowing that John’s guns were missing. I told Lynch about this,” Mr. Robek said.
      “Lynch told us that Swartz said [my son] had given [the guns] to him to sell,” Mr. Robek said.
      The last time John Robek saw his son alive was May 31, 1974, about 6:30 a.m.
      Mr. Robek said he was going to work and before he left, asked his son to remove his car from the berm in front of the family home as a load of topsoil was scheduled for delivery.
      “He assured me he would move the car,” Mr. Robek recalled, adding “When I came home about 3:30 p.m., the car was still on the berm and the topsoil was on the driveway! This bothered me quite a bit, because knowing John, this would The caller babbled on and eventually was disconnected.
      Lt. Ed McDonnell handled the call, but he had been hired as a Boardman police officer long after Robek’s disappearance. He was not aware of the mystery of John Robek’s disappearance.
      Boardman police later determined the caller was Ken Swartz.
      Swartz had been living at the Melbourne Ave. home of his mother, Mary L. Swartz, who died Mar. 27, 2012.
      The phone call caught the attention of Det. Glenn Riddle at the Boardman Police Department.
      Riddle told The Boardman News that Swartz had agreed to speak with him regarding Robek’s disappearance, but then cancelled, and moved out of Boardman.
      In addition to working undercover with the Youngstown Police Department, Swartz held several other jobs with area law enforcement agencies.
      During 1972, Swartz worked with Mill Creek Park’s police department.
      On June 12, 1972, as part of his regular duties, Swartz picked-up two money bags, the day’s receipts of monies collected at the park’s golf course.
      One bag was subsequently reported stolen out of Swartz’s cruiser, who said it had been placed in the back of the vehicle that he left it unattended for a short time.
      In June, 1975, while still employed at the Youngstown Police Department, Swartz took part in a raid at 113 Hilton Ave. (Among others on that raid was former Boardman Police Chief and then YPD undercover agent Pat Berarducci).
      Allegations developed that money and possibly other items turned-up missing from the raid.
      Interviewed five years ago about the raid on Hilton Ave., Chief Berarducci told The Boardman News that was the only time he ever worked with Swartz, adding a Youngstown PD detective, Roger Halbert, “warned me after that to never meet Swartz anywhere alone.”
      John Robek was declared legally dead on Sept. 16, 1987 by Mahoning County Judge Charles P. Henderson, and his former fiance, Linda O’Brien, was able to claim funds from the life insurance policy he held while working as an undercover agent with the Youngstown Police Department.
      Swartz, now 67-years-old, now lives in Payson, Arizona, in a trailer park bordered by a national forest.
      He has yet to speak in detail with Boardman police about his old friend and partner’s disappearance.
  LEGAL NOTICE  
  May 18, 2017 Edition  
     Legal Notice
      Boardman Schools Saves Money
      Through its “Retire/Rehire” Program
      As part of the current negotiated agreements between the Boardman Board of Education and its unions (the Ohio Association of Public School Employees Chapter #334 and the Boardman Education Association) an employee may retire from the Boardman Local School District and be immediately rehired for less pay and benefits. There are substantial savings to the Board of Education for each employee who elects to participate in this opportunity. The Boardman Local School District has saved over $4,000,000 since instituting this program ten years ago. At this time, employees wishing to participate in this option can retire and be re-employed for the next calendar year.
      The employees listed below have indicated their intent to take part in this option for the next calendar year. This action will occur at the July 24, 2017 Board of Education Meeting.
      Maddalena Amero Italian Teacher
      Any citizen interested in hearing more details about this provision in the negotiated agreement or wishing to speak before the Board of Education regarding this matter may do so at the May Board of Education meeting. This public meeting will be held on Thursday, June 29, 2017 at 6:30 p.m. at Center Intermediate School.
     
  LEGAL NOTICE  
  May 18, 2017 Edition  
     LEGAL NOTICE
      The Boardman Township Zoning Commission will conduct a Public Hearing on the following amendment to the Boardman Township Zoning Resolution and Township Zoning Map on Tuesday, May 23, 2017 at 5:30 PM, at the Boardman Township Government Center, 8299 Market Street, Boardman, Ohio 44512. Text and maps of the request may be viewed at the Boardman Township Zoning Office, 8299 Market Street, Boardman, Ohio 44512 Monday through Friday, between the hours of 8:00 AM and 4:00 PM, until time of hearing.
      Following the recommendation of the Zoning Commission, the proposed amendment will be referred to the Board of Trustees for final determination.
      AMENDMENT A-2017-01
      Pursuant to Article XVI, Section F, Part a, Number 1 of the Boardman Township Zoning Resolution, as amended through May 29, 2012, concerning the initiation of amendments to the Township Zoning Resolution, the Board of Trustees of Boardman Township find it necessary to initiate hearings to amend the Boardman Township Zoning Resolution and Township zoning Map to reclassify and rezone the following 255 parcels of real property from Residential R-2 Districts to Residential R-1 Districts:
      17 Parcels along West Dover Road
      34 Parcels along Arden Boulevard
      29 Parcels along Shelby Road
      29 Parcels along Cascade Road
      43 Parcels along Stratmore Avenue
      44 Parcels along Risher Avenue
      32 Parcels along Sylvia Lane
      8 Parcels along Donmar Lane
      19 Parcels along Hopkins Road
      The vacated portion of roadway between Cascade Road and Shelby Road
      All properties are located in Boardman Township, Mahoning County, State of Ohio.
      Peter W. Lymber, Chairman
      Boardman Township Zoning Commission
      Krista Beniston, AICP,
      Director of Zoning and Development
  27th Annual Memorial Mile Run Mon., May 29  
  May 18, 2017 Edition  
     The 27th annual Memorial Mile running road race will be held Mon., May 29 at 9:35 a.m. in Boardman. Some of the best runners in the area will compete for gift certificates and awards in 14 age groups. Runners ages 11 and under are free (no shirt) with pre-registration by Fri., May 26. The entry fee is $10 in advance for all others and $13 day of race for everyone. The race starts at routes 224 and 7. Day of race registration and packets can be picked up at Walgreens at rt. 224 and rt. 7. The race is sponsored by Walgreens, 910 Rapid Care, Coke, the DeBartolo Corporation, Armstrong, and Novak and Davis Insurance. For more information, call (330) 757-7424.
  LEGAL NOTICE  
  May 11, 2017 Edition  
     LEGAL NOTICE
      The Boardman Township Zoning Commission will conduct a Public Hearing on the following amendment to the Boardman Township Zoning Resolution and Township Zoning Map on Tuesday, May 23, 2017 at 5:30 PM, at the Boardman Township Government Center, 8299 Market Street, Boardman, Ohio 44512. Text and maps of the request may be viewed at the Boardman Township Zoning Office, 8299 Market Street, Boardman, Ohio 44512 Monday through Friday, between the hours of 8:00 AM and 4:00 PM, until time of hearing.
      Following the recommendation of the Zoning Commission, the proposed amendment will be referred to the Board of Trustees for final determination.
      AMENDMENT A-2017-01
      Pursuant to Article XVI, Section F, Part a, Number 1 of the Boardman Township Zoning Resolution, as amended through May 29, 2012, concerning the initiation of amendments to the Township Zoning Resolution, the Board of Trustees of Boardman Township find it necessary to initiate hearings to amend the Boardman Township Zoning Resolution and Township zoning Map to reclassify and rezone the following 255 parcels of real property from Residential R-2 Districts to Residential R-1 Districts:
      17 Parcels along West Dover Road
      34 Parcels along Arden Boulevard
      29 Parcels along Shelby Road
      29 Parcels along Cascade Road
      43 Parcels along Stratmore Avenue
      44 Parcels along Risher Avenue
      32 Parcels along Sylvia Lane
      8 Parcels along Donmar Lane
      19 Parcels along Hopkins Road
      The vacated portion of roadway between Cascade Road and Shelby Road
      All properties are located in Boardman Township, Mahoning County, State of Ohio.
      Peter W. Lymber, Chairman
      Boardman Township Zoning Commission
      Krista Beniston, AICP,
      Director of Zoning and Development
  LEGAL NOTICE  
  May 11, 2017 Edition  
     NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING
      The Boardman Township Board of Appeals shall hold a Public Hearing on Tuesday, May 23, 2017 at 7:00 PM at the Boardman Township Government Center, 8299 Market Street, Boardman Township, Ohio 44512, for consideration of the following cases:
      APPEAL CASE AC-2017-13
      John Sullivan, 340 Indianola Road, Boardman, Ohio 44512, property owner, requests a variance for the terms of the Boardman Township Zoning Resolution, effective May 29, 2012, Article V, Residence R-1 Districts, D. Private Garages and other Out-Buildings, in order to build an 884 square foot detached garage seeking relief from the 676 square foot detached garage size limit. The property is further known as GL 19 DIV 4, Parcel Number 29-009-0-244.00-0. Said property is zoned Residence R-1, in Boardman Township, Mahoning County, State of Ohio.
      APPEAL CASE AC-2017-14
      Stephany Sheekey, Planner for AMERCO Real Estate, 2727 N Central Avenue, 5N, Phoenix, AZ 85004, requests a conditional use variance for the terms of the Boardman Township Zoning Resolution, effective May 29, 2012, Article XVI Administration, Section I Conditional Use Regulations to allow for the operation of self-storage and truck and trailer rental at 472 Boardman-Canfield Road, Boardman, Ohio 44512. The property is further known as Lot 1 REPL of G-M Realty Inc PL, Parcel Number 29-067-0-066.00-0. Said property is zoned Commercial, in Boardman Township, Mahoning County, State of Ohio.
      Text and maps of the request may be viewed at the Boardman Township Zoning Office, 8299 Market Street, Boardman, Ohio 44512 Monday through Friday, between the hours of 8:00 AM and 4:00 PM, until time of hearing.
      Atty. John F. Shultz, Chairman
      Boardman Township Board of Appeals
      Krista D. Beniston, AICP,
      Director of Zoning and Development
  Heroin Factor In Death Of Woman Found In Parking Lot  
  May 4, 2017 Edition  
      Boardman police have charged a 31-year-old man with abuse of a corpse and failure to report a crime in the death of 48-year-old Billie Jo Beshara, of 1411 St. Albans Dr.
      Beshara’s lifeless body was found in her Cadillac Escalade on Tues., Mar. 7 shortly after 7:00 a.m. in a parking lot behind Niccolini’s Restaurant on Boardman-Poland Rd.
      Charged in the matter is Steven James Schaefer, of 858 Indianola Rd.
      On Sat., Mar. 4, Beshara’s husband of 18 years, William R. Beshara, reported to Boardman police that he had not seen his wife for 24 hours.
      Mr. Beshara said she left their residence on Mar. 3 about 9:30 a.m., leaving his wife money to buy groceries. He told police when he returned home later that evening, the money was still on the kitchen counter.
      “Mr. Beshara stated Billie has an alcohol problem and regularly goes out of Friday nights and returns hours later, usually intoxicated,” Ptl. Nick Newland reported, adding the husband told him it wasn’t unusual for Beshara to go out, but it was unusual for her to go out “for so long.”
      Police believe that Schaefer spent the day of Mar. 3 with Mrs. Beshara, during which time they bought narcotics and injected heroin. She overdosed and died.
      Police believe that Schaefer waited until dark and ‘drove around’ for several hours in the Escalade with Beshara’s body until deciding to drop her off in the parking lot of Nicolinni’s.
      Phone records help police locate Schaefer.
  More Than 200 Trees Destroyed To Make Way For School Bus Facility On Tod Ave.  
  May 4, 2017 Edition  
      Boardman Local Schools have stripped more than 200 trees from the former estate of Clarence R. Smith on Raupp Ave. to make way for a new school bus garage and parking facility on the site, formerly a sanctuary for deer and other wildlife.
      The work is being completed by Advanced Tree Service at a cost of some $32,000, according to Boardman Local School Supt. Tim L. Saxton.
      After being pressured by St. Elizabeth Hospital/Mercy Health for several years, the local school system will abandon their current school bus facility on McClurg Rd.
      Current plans call for the new school bus site to encroach to within a mere five feet of the eastern border with the former Smith property, now planned for use under the direction of Boardman Park.
      According to Boardman Township Zoning/Development Director Krista Beniston, the park district is seeking a fence and a tree buffer along the border, now that the trees have been stripped from the property.
      “If you do not wish to pursue an agreement with Boardman Park, then you will need to submit to the Site Plan Review Board to ensure...requirements are met,” Beniston has informed the school district’s architect, Thomas Madej, concerning plans for the bus facility.
      Beniston indicated an agreement must also be reached between the school and the property owner just north of the proposed bus facility, suggesting tree plantings will provide an appropriate border.
      Beniston has also informed school business manager Jack Zocolo the park district would like to plant trees along the property line of the former Smith estate, once dotted until two weeks ago with the trees that were hacked down.
      “Since there is only five feet of grass adjacent to the Smith property, where we would normally require 20 ft. to 30 ft. next to residential properties, it seems like a good compromise,” Beniston said.
  Adventure Camp At Boardman Park June 12 - Aug. 18  
  May 4, 2017 Edition  
      The school year is coming to an end, registration for Boardman Park’s summer program for kids, Adventure Day Camp, is now open.
      “What better way to keep your kids active and engaged then to register them for the camp,” Camp Director Karen McCallum said, adding “The goal of our camp is to offer young minds the opportunity to explore their imaginations, discover physical fitness, expand their knowledge of sports and develop a growing sense of adventure through diverse activities.
      “Our curriculum is designed to be age appropriate, educational and fun as the children participate in a daily schedule of arts and crafts, team building, creative arts, science, and sports.”
      The camp will run for ten weeks starting
      June 12 - August 18th. Camp hours are Monday thru Friday, 9:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. for children who have completed kindergarten thru sixth grade. Arrangements can be made to bring campers early or pick them up later for an additional charge.
      Register your child for one week or all ten by going to www.boardmanparkcamp.com. Many discounts are offered such as Early Bird enrollment, Boardman resident and multi-sibling family discounts.
      For additional information contact McCallum at 330-965-0482, or visit the camp website at www.boardmanparkcamp.com.
  Animal Charity: Please Save The Dogs, Don’t Kill Them!  
  April 27, 2017 Edition  
Tyger
     EDITOR:
      I need to make sure I remain anonymous. I am very familiar with the Animal Charity kennel in Canfield where I believe some dogs are unnecessarily put to death by euthanization.
      The way the kennel is being managed is really a joke. The manager got her job after working as a caretaker for a few short months. She had little to no experience with dogs, especially ones that needed any kind of behavior modification. She was not educated on the general care of the animals such as feeding amounts, health issues and training. She was hardly ever there, she usually showed-up to complain to the employees that they weren’t doing their job right. She was constantly on her cell phone or outside smoking in front of the building when it was open to public.
      While I was working there, several dogs had signs on their kennels that said “behavior modification plan.” Two were considered ‘food aggressive’ and another was considered dog aggressive.
      I never had issues with any of these dogs. Not once! However, nothing was done to fix the behavior within the time I was there. They were given the least amount of attention by employees and not once was anyone brought there to work with them. One person performed behavior tests and then labeled the dogs. Keep in mind, the tests were done in a laundry room, connected to an area where there were roughly 25 dogs barking and going crazy as employees took them in and out.
      So the dogs being tested were stressed and distracted and the results were inaccurate because of this. These tests should always be done in a quiet, stress-free environment. Also, the tests are to be recorded so if for any reason a dog is put to sleep, there is proof to justify the euthanization. To my knowledge, nothing was ever recorded.
      One of the dogs subjected to these inaccurate tests was about 2-years-old and a very smart dog. He knew his basic commands and loved people. After several tests were done on him, his behavior actually became worse. He developed food aggression slowly over time. I also know some people were afraid of walking him because he was a strong dog. So he didn’t always get proper exercise like he should have, as he was stuck in a kennel all day long. He never once bit anyone or even came close. He just acted possessive over food.
      I worked to find this dog a home, because I truly believed he just needed out of that place. I was told management decided the pooch was too aggressive and needed to be put to sleep. A friend of mine agreed to take the dog and I begged my boss to let him be saved. A meeting took place with the board members, most who had never seen the dog, and they made the decision that because of legal issues, they could not allow the dog to be adopted and put him to sleep anyway. They did not look for rescue, they did not seek foster homes, they just kenneled (him) until it was no longer convenient and then killed him.
      I have another situation that’s presented itself in regards to Animal Charity.
      There is a dog named Tyger. He’s roughly 4-6 months-old. There is a girl who is employed there and on a post from her on Facebook showing a video of her and Tyger hanging out in his kennel and he was playing with a stuffed animal while being content just being next to her. She spent countless hours with this dog, helping him overcome his fear of people. She posted a video with a plea to save his life. She was told that after two evaluations, the decision was made that the dog was not adoptable because of his fear of people and he is scheduled to be euthanized.
      The girl wanted to adopt Tyger. She agreed to do whatever she could to help him and would take the liability of his fear reactivity and she was denied. Animal Charity used could a risk the liability if Tyger caused anyone any harm.
      But the funny thing is, you cannot make that call when a dog hasn’t experienced a normal life, not once, and at such a young age. Animal Charity never reached out for a foster home, or rescue for this dog. They told everyone who came to look at dogs at Canfield kennel that he was not up for adoption and on hold. They never even gave him the chance. I went there with her and a few people from a rescue and they still denied us after we did everything we could to convince them to let us help.
      All of the employees there love the pup, and I have heard several may be quitting because of this.
      I understand that sometimes there is no other option and some dogs are put to sleep. But when the dog has a chance and they deny it that because of their image and liability, it’s unfair. They do not ask for help from other rescues, or fosters. Several dogs including one named Chauncey are heart worm positive. They don’t treat them while they are housed there. They will only treat if the dog is fostered. Yet they don’t reach out to find fosters. Rather the dog suffers until they decide to end it.
      My point is that Animal Charity does not do everything they can and everything they should to provide these dog with a fair chance.
      They don’t work with the dogs that really need that time out of their kennel. Those dogs are stuck in the kennels farthest from the entrance and are hardly looked at by the public. Employees walk those dogs last and by that time, everyone is rushing to finish the shift in time so they never get enough time out.
      Dogs are walked for five to ten minutes maximum, twice a day, unless there’s a volunteer to spend extra time with a few of them. Yet the ones with supposed behavior issues aren’t allowed to be walked by volunteers.
      Maybe I’m wrong but I believe the ones that need to be shared with public are the ones that Animal Charity places on the back burner---dogs that could have thrived but are miserable with little attention from people supposed to help them.
      Sincerely,
      Gretta Knows!
      Gretta, a Golden Retriever, spent 15 years at The Boardman News.
      She greeted all who entered with a wag of her tail! She died in Nov.,2012. Gretta showed those around her how to love life,
      love unconditionally and always to keep that tail awaggin’!
      Now she watches over her dog family from heaven.
     
      PICTURED: TYGER, A PUPPY, HAS NEVER HAD a normal life. Animal Charity, headquartered at 4140 Market St. in Boardman, determined the dog should be put to death, never having a chance to be with a family, after being found locked in a crate on the side of a garage when he was just 60-days-old. Less than 24 hours before he was set to die, a lobbying effort put the euthanization on hold, at least for now. When someone wanted to adopt the dog, Animal Charity rejected the offer. As the writer of the letter-to-the-editor observed “the funny thing is, you cannot make that call when a dog hasn’t experienced a normal life, not once, and at such a young age.” Anyone interested in adopting the dog can contact Animal Charity at 330-788-1064 for more information. All of agency’s adoptable dogs are now located at its Canfield location, 525 West Main Street, Canfield Oh., or try contacting the director, Lisa Hill, at Lisahill.aco@gmail.com.
  BCA Awards Scholarships  
  Lazzeri Citizen Of The Year:   April 27, 2017 Edition  
      The Boardman Civic Association awarded $750 college scholarships to eight high school seniors, and honored former Boardman Local School Superintendent Frank Lazzeri as Citizen of the Year at its 27th annual Scholarship Awards Banquet held last week at the Georgeanna Parker Activity Center in Boardman Park.
      Scholarship winners were Kwabena (Koby) Adu-Poku, Katherine Bodamer, Nicole Enright, Michael Phillips, Annalese Samuel, Courtney Segool, Mark Smaldino and Stephen Stanko.
      Guest speaker for the event was Jacqueline Marino, is an associate professor of Journalism at Kent State University. She is a 1990 graduate of Cardinal Mooney High School and one the first of two recipients of the BCA Scholarship Award.
  Police At The Wagon Wheel Motel 4 Times In 2 Days  
  April 27, 2017 Edition  
     BY JOHN A. DARNELL JR.
      associate editor
      Less than a week after a Sheldon Ave.resident complained that drug overdoses were “getting out of hand” at the Wagon Wheel Motel, 7015 Market St., a record of dispatch calls show that Boardman police were at the motel four times over a two-day period.
      According to public records, police have answered calls at the motel more than 30 times this year alone.
      On Sat., Apr. 15, about 1:05 p.m., police were called to the motel for an ‘ongoing situation’ between a mother and daughter, a 13-year-old girl who was reportedly ‘out of control, making threats and throwing things.’
      Lucinda Zecher told police her daughter hadn’t been listening to her, “takes the phone from her, leaves without permission and is using marihuana,” Ptl. Heather Dobbins reported.
      Zecher said she and her daughter had been living at the Wagon Wheel “for a few weeks” and the teenager had been expelled from school on October and since that time has not attended school.
      40 minutes later, police were back at the Wagon Wheel to arrested Zecher on warrants issued out of Campbell for abandoning animals and cruelty to animals.
      According to Officer Dobbins, Zecher’s daughter was not at the motel at the time of her arrest, as she left “with permission” with her uncle.
      On Sun., Apr. 16, about 7:20 a.m., police received a call from a man who said he had asked for a refund of the money he paid to the motel, claiming his room had “bed bugs.”
      Again on Sun., Apr. 16, near 6:00 p.m., police were called to the motel by a woman who said she wanted to “drop off” her mother after an Easter dinner, but the landlord locked the woman out of her room, claiming she owed $20 to the business. The woman claimed she was “paid-up for the month.”
      Ptl. Chad Doran answered that call and spoke with Candice Desimone, 26, of 248 Myron St., Hubbard, Oh.
      Desimone said her mother had paid the $20 three days in advance of its due date, Apr. 19, and when she found out her mom had been locked out of her room, she confronted motel manager Richard Dzuray, claiming the man “verbally assaulted her” using profanity and calling her a ‘fat bitch.’
      Motel owner Chirag Patel told police there had been an argument regarding the unpaid bill, and the door jamb to the room Desimone’s mother was staying in had been damaged when Desimone went to get her mother’s belongings.
      Officer Doran said he observed damage to the door jamb, noting Dzuray said he wanted the mom “out of the room.”
      Officer Doran also noted “Patel agreed to return the $20 the mom paid him” and Desimone and her mother left the place.
      Little more than two hours later, police were back at the Wagon Wheel, this time for an auto theft report.
      Maurice Gooch, 36, of 54 Fernwood Ave., Youngstown, Oh., told police his 2006 Cadillac STS with custom 22-inch chrome rims, tinted windows and custom blue paint, had been stolen.
      Gooch told police he checked into room #14 about 1:00 a.m. on Apr. 16 after a long day of work and was alone and “must have left the car unlocked with the key fob inside the vehicle.”
      Gooch told Ptl. Bill Bowers he had insurance on the vehicle that was financed through Six Brother’s Auto Sales, 935 Oak St., Youngstown.
      Shortly after 9:00 p.m. on Apr. 16, the stolen car report was cancelled, as police said Gooch’s ride was recovered behind 619 West Boston, Youngstown, by the Youngstown Police Department. It had no tires and no wheels, police said.
      When Boardman Trustees heard the Sheldon Ave. resident complain about the Wagon Wheel, their administrator, Jason Loree said that township officials have been “checking out all the motels along Market St., from Rt. 224 to Shields Rd. and we have met with the county prosecutor about this.”
  Twelve On List As Candidates For Police Chief  
  April 13, 2017 Edition  
     Boardman Township Trustees have received a list of ten candidates who will be interviewed for the post of township police chief.
      Boardman’s current chief, Jack Nichols, will retire, effective Jan. 4, 2018.
      Five members of the Boardman Police Department have applied for the chief’s position, including Narcotics Enforcement Unit Commander, Sgt. Mike Hughes; Det. Rick Balog, School Resource Officer Chuck Hillman Jr., Det. Glenn Riddle and Sgt. John Allsopp.
      A former member of the Boardman Police Department, Bureau of Criminal Identification Special Agent James Ciotti is also a candidate for chief. Ciotti is supervisor/special operations of the Northeast District of Ohio of the BCI.
      FBI Agent Todd D. Werth, supervisory special agent assigned to the bureau’s local office on Sahara Trail, is among the ten finalists for the post.
      Also applying for the post are Rod Foley, former Youngstown police chief and currently commander of the YPD’s patrol division; Brian Goodin, chief of Poland township Police Department; David Hayes, chief of police and also township administrator of Sagamore Hills, Oh. Township; William Cappabianca, a major serving with the Mahoning County Sheriff’s Department; and Charles VanDyke, chief of police in Milton Township.
      All of the ten candidates will get ‘first’ interviews by township trustees, who will narrow the list and then schedule a second round of interviews.
      A new police chief is expected to be named by this fall, if not earlier, pending final background checks.
  LEGAL NOTICE  
  April 13, 2017 Edition  
     Boardman Township Civil Service Commission
      Full-Time Entry Level Fire Fighter
      Boardman, OH - $27,750.00 Annual Salary
      Beginning on April 17, 2017, a complete job announcement and application with available bonus points can be viewed on the Boardman Township website: www.boardmantwp.com. (Click on Administration, then on Civil Service)
      Applications will be available electronically via the Boardman Township Website www.boardmantwp.com or by email request to boardmancivilservice@gmail.com, from April 17, 2017 through May 18, 2017. Office hours: by appointment only, please call (330)726-4177 x 61701 during normal business hours or (330)540-8204 after 4pm, except Holidays.
      Completed applications will be accepted beginning April 24, 2017 from 9-12pm and 2-4pm Monday through Thursday until May 18, 2017, except Holidays. The Boardman Civil Service Office is located at the Boardman Township Fire Department, 136 Boardman-Poland Rd, Boardman, Ohio. If you encounter an unforeseeable scheduling conflict, please contact (330) 540-8204 for further assistance.
      Applicants must be a between the ages of 18-36, must be a United States citizen, must possess a valid driver’s license and obtain a Certificate of Completion, at the applicant’s expense for physical agility from Cuyahoga Community College to participate in the written examination.
      AN EQUAL OPPORTUNITY EMPLOYER
     
  Canfield Fair President George Roman Announces New Concert Partnerships  
  April 13, 2017 Edition  
     The Canfield Fair is partnering with local business JAC LIVE to book the music acts for the 2017 Canfield Fair. In addition, the Fair will also be working with Ticketmaster as the ticketing agent for all 2017 Grandstand events.
      This new partnership represents the first time the two local entities have come together and the first time the fair has transitioned its ticketing system to Ticketmaster.
      “The Canfield Fair and its board of directors knew that the time was right to make the entertainment stronger at the Fair and to move to a partnership with organizations that have a larger, more global reach,” George Roman, Canfield Fair director, said.
      The Canfield Fair will announce the first act (rumored to be Jon Cougar Mellancamp) coming to the 2017 Canfield Fair on Mon., Apr. 17 at 7:00 a.m. “At the Fair, we have a history of bringing the best in music and entertainment to our fairgoers and we anticipate that this year will be no different,” Roman said.
      Eric Ryan of JAC LIVE said of the new partnership, “There are so many great traditions in this Valley, but none quite like the Canfield Fair. It is a true honor and privilege to be working on such an esteemed and highly regarded event. One of our first orders of business was to bring on Ticketmaster as our ticketing agent. The addition of a global company like Ticketmaster is beneficial beyond measure. They are the undisputed industry leaders and they will expand the methods of purchase in a clear online, phone, and outlet format,” he said.
      “Since we are a local company, we are able to apply a unique set of skills and prospective into creating memorable, successful events; we look forward to the opportunity do just that for the Canfield Fair!” Ryan concludes.
      “Over the years, Eric and his team have done an exceptional job of bringing some of the top artists to the Valley and we’re excited to have him continue that excellence here at the Canfield Fair,” Roman added.
      Founded in 1846, the Canfield Fair is Ohio’s largest county fair, attracting more 300,000 Fairgoers in a single year. The Canfield Fair is run and operated by the Mahoning County Agricultural Society and has a board of 17 directors. The Fairgrounds sits on 353 acres of land and is compromised of more than 60 buildings, barns and the grandstand.
      A beloved summer tradition for residents of this Valley and beyond, the Canfield Fair is now celebrating its 171st year as the crowning glory of everyone’s summer.
     
  New Fire Station Set To Open In March, 2018  
  April 6, 2017 Edition  
     Groundbreaking ceremonies were held Thurs., Mar. 30 for a new main fire station in Boardman Township. The 18,000 sq. ft. facility will be constructed at Market St. and Stadium Dr. at a cost of some $3.3 million.
      About 50 persons, largely fire-fighters and township, local school and park officials attended the ceremony.
      The new station will be more than double the size of the current main fire station at Southern Blvd. and Rt. 224, that was built around 1930.
      The new facility will include living and office areas and apparatus bays.
      “We have designed a fire station that kept costs down, and yet will still be a focal point for our community,” Tom Costello, chairman of the Boardman Township Board of Trustees said, noting the township hopes to relocate to its new facility by March, 2018.
      The new fire station will be located on the site of the first Boardman High School football field, where the Spartans played in the 1930s and 1940s.
      The property was sold to Boardman Township by the local school board at a cost of approximately $225,000. In addition, as part of the deal, the township’s Board of Trustees gave the school board property off Raupp Ave., the former site of Diamond Steel. That property will become the Boardman school bus garage, and is expected to lead to the township and school system sharing fuel costs for their vehicles on the adjacent site of the Government Center.
      The new fire station will be constructed without an additional tax levy, a testament to the policies of Fiscal Officer William Leicht, and Trustees Costello, Brad Calhoun and Larry Moliterno.
      Construction of the facility will fully get underway pending the results of soil testing on the 2-acre site. J, Herbet Construction, general contractor for the project, has suggested the soil needs to be more compacted before construction begins.
      Of note, the site of the old main fire station could become a location for Get Go facility. The Tamarkin Co. has filed a request with the Ohio Department of Liquor Control for a liquor permit at that site, indicating the property could be sold to the firm.
      Monies from that sale of that property will be used for the construction of the new fire station, Fiscal Officer Leicht indicated.
      PICTURE: GROUNDBREAKING CEREMONIES WERE HELD last week for Boardman Township’s new, main fire station that will be located at the intersection of Market St. and Stadium Dr. General contractor for the $3.3 million project is J. Herbert Construction. Boardman Township Trustee Thomas Costello said he expects work on the new station to be completed by spring, 2018. Pictured is a focal point of the project, a 9-1-1 memorial that will be located near the entrance to the new station, that will honor police and firemen and the nearly 3,000 people who were killed on Sept. 11, 2001, the single largest loss of life resulting from a foreign attack on American soil. Funding for the memorial is expected to be raised through a community wide, volunteer effort.
  Boardman Civic Association Scholarship Banquet April 18  
  April 6, 2017 Edition  
     The Boardman Civic Association’s annual Scholarship Awards banquet will be held Tues., Apr. 18 at 6:00 p.m. at the Boardman Holiday Inn. Honored will be seniors from Boardman High School, Cardinal Mooney, Ursuline High School and Valley Christian School who have achieved a 3.5 gpa or above and are also involved in community and civic activities. This year, over 130 seniors from these schools meet the criteria.
      Six students will be chosen to receive scholarships of $750 each. The awards are made possible through the Boardman Civic Association’s Scholarship Fund, which is supported by BCA members’ contributions and others from the community.
      At this year’s event, a Lifetime Achievement Award will be presented to Frank Lazzeri, retired former Superintendent of Boardman Local Schools, for his years of dedicated service to the schools and the community.
      BCA members and student honorees may attend the dinner at no cost. Others may purchase tickets for $25 on the BCA website (www.BoardmanCivic.com). Tickets may also be purchased at the door with cash, check or credit card; however, reservations must be made in advance by contacting Meg Harris at MHarris1421@yahoo.com. The deadline for reservations is Apr. 10.
  Daffodil Weekend Apr 8-9 At Mill Creek Park  
  April 6, 2017 Edition  
     Spring and the delights of daffodils are the feature of Daffodil Weekend at Fellows Riverside Gardens in Mill Creek Park. The daffodil show will be held Sat., Apr. 8, from 1:00 p.m. to 5:00 p.m. and on Sun., Apr. 9, from 10:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.
      Visitors can take a stroll through the Gardens on a guided walk on Apr. 8 at 2:00 p.m. and view over 200 different species and cultivars in the Narcissus collection. Mill Creek Park also features Daffodil Meadow, located along Lake Newport, where beautiful blooms abound during this time of the year.
      On Sun., Apr. 9 the Mill Creek MetroParks Farm, 7574 Columbiana-Canfield Rd., Canfield, will hold its annual Farm Animal Baby Shower, a free, family-friendly event from 10:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. ‘New arrivals to the MetroParks Farm include goats, lambs and a bottle baby calf (all born this spring), chicks, ducks, turkeys, geese, and more. There will also be mother animals who are still expecting. Cake and punch will be served while supplies last.
      Also on Sunday, award-winning photographer Paul Bannick, the lens behind “The Owl and the Wookpecker” exhibit, will host a free Wildlife Photography Workshop from 1:00 p.m. to 2:00 p.m., followed by a lecture on owls from 2:30 p.m. to 4:30 p.m. at Fellows Riverside Gardens, sponsored by the John S. and Doris M. Andrews Memorial Lecture Series. The workshop will focus on wildlife photography, particularly birds, in the field. Bannick will cover everything from how to find and approach photo targets. The lecture focus on a year-long journey of 19 species of owls in their distinct habitats throughout North America. Registration requested, but not required, by calling Fellows Riverside Gardens at 330-740-7116.
  Army Vet, Police Officer Paul Poulos Will Lead Memorial Day Event  
  March 30, 2017 Edition  
Ptl. PAUL POULOS
     Boardman Township police officer Paul Poulos has been named grand marshal and featured speaker for the 113th annual Memorial Day parade and services set for Mon., May 29.
      Ptl. Poulos, who serves as a Resource Officer at Boardman Local Schools, joined the ranks of the Boardman Police Department in June, 2009, and became a resource officer on Aug. 29, 2014.
      He is a ten year veteran of the United States Army (1998-2008) and served two tours of duty in Iraq, where he earned a bronze star for brave and meritorious action in a combat zone.
      In Nov., 2006, then Staff Sgt. Poulos and his troops established an outpost where a nearby Bradley tank had been disabled by an improvised explosive device (IED). The tank and its soldiers could have been captured, or killed by the enemy when Poulos called for support that allowed their rescue.
      During his first tour of duty in Iraq (2204-05), two members of his platoon were killed during a fight with enemy troops.
      He has acknowledged he too could have died during the fight and probably should have died.
      As a result, he now views life as a precious gift, not to be taken for granted.
      In addition to the bronze star, Officer Poulos received the Army Commendation Medal and five Army Achievement Awards and three Conduct Awards for his service to his country.
      The owner of five dogs, Officer Poulos also services as president of the Paw Platoon Dog rescue.
      The annual Memorial Day Parade will get underway at 10:00 a.m. at Center Intermediate School, ending at Boardman Park, where Officer Poulos will be the main speaker. William Waino will give the invocation and LTC Bill Moss, USAF ret., will lead the Pledge of Allegiance and place a wreath at the Veteran’s Memorial in honors of deceased service members. The Boardman High School National Honor Society will also place a wreath at the memorial, in honor of current military personnel. Mark Luke will serve as master of ceremonies.
      Groups and community organization who wish to participate in the parade can contact Stephanie Landers, coordinator of the Memorial Day activities, at 330-565-2543
      The annual Memorial Day parade and services are led by the Kiwanis Club of Boardman.
  Driver In Jan. 10 Fatal Car Crash Faces 40 Years In Prison, Lifetime Driving Ban  
  March 23, 2017 Edition  
     A 32-year-old Boardman woman has been indicted by a Mahoning County Grand Jury on nine counts, all related to the Jan. 10 death of 23-year-old Taylor Duvall, of 707 East Pasadena, Youngstown, Oh.
      Duvall was a passenger in a red Honda Civic police say was driven by Nicole Mitchell, 125 Argyle Ave., that was discovered at Zedaker St. and Compton Lane in Youngstown with Duvall hanging out of the front passenger window.
      According to police, both Mitchell and Duvall had drugs in their system at the time of the crash.
      Mahoning County Deputy Coroner Dr. Joseph Ohr said that Duvall died of “devastating head and neck injuries” when the Honda rolled onto its side, leaving Duvall underneath the vehicle, as it skidded along an icy roadway after hitting a cement wall and flipping over on its side.
      Duvall had cocaine, heroin and fentanyl in her system at the time of the crash.
      A Boardman police source said that Michell was driving under the influence of alcohol, cocaine and marihuana when her car was involved in the deadly crash.
      The Honda, owned by Mitchell, was the subject of a brief police pursuit after a reported theft at Walgreens, corner Rt. 224 and Market St., according to Ptl. Anthony Ciccotelli, of the Boardman Police Department.
      Due to poor road conditions, Officer Ciccotelli called-off the pursuit.
      “The driver of the vehicle was found hiding underneath a small plastic swimming pool in the rear yard of 885 Compton Lane by [Boardman] police officer Daryn Tallman who followed fresh footprints in the snow,” Officer Ciccotelli said, adding the keys to the car were found on the ground next to Mitchell.
      Atty. J. Gerald Ingram has been retained to represent Mitchell on the charges against her.
      They include one count of involuntary manslaughter, two counts of aggravated vehicular homicide, one count of reckless homicide, hree counts of operating a motor vehicle while impaired, one count of theft and one count of fail ure to comply with the order or signal of a police officer.
      Following the theft at Walgreens, Boardman police were advised to be on the lookout for a red Honda Civic.
      “I observed the vehicle stopped...on South Ave. at Midlothian Blvd... and it matched the description of the suspect vehicle,” Officer Ciccotelli said.
      “A traffic stop was initiated...The vehicle ignored my emergency lights...I made the decision to terminate the pursuit,” Officer Ciccotelli said, noting the Honda “started to really exceed the safe speed for road conditions.”
      The pursuit began shortly after 1:00 a.m. on Jan. 10, when police answered the call of a shoplifting incident at Walgreens, where $86.99 worth of merchandise was reported stolen, including $26.99 worth of diapers and 10 containers of deodorant.
      “ The Walgreen’s shopping basket and numerous merchandise was observed in the vehicle and on the roadway at the scene of the crash,” Officer Ciccotelli said.
      Mitchell faces a maximum sentence of at least 40 years in jail and more than $20,000 in fines on the charges, as well as a lifetime driving ban.
      PICTURED: Nicole Mitchell, at left, faces jail time of more than 40 years in the Jan. 10, drug-related death of Taylor Duvall, at right. Duvall died when the car Mitchell was driving flipped onto its side, dragging Duvall underneath the car. Duvall suffered massive head and neck injuries. Mitchell was found nearby, hiding underneath a small, plastic swimming pool, Boardman police said.
  Lazzeri Recognized  
  March 23, 2017 Edition  
     Former Boardman Local School Superintendent Frank Lazzeri, at left, was honored on Monday night as past president of the Boardman Civic Association. He was introduced by current BCA president Meg Harris, at right.
  Fund For Educational Excellence Nets $20,000 For School Grants  
  March 23, 2017 Edition  
     The Boardman Schools Fund for Educational Excellence (BSFEE) held their second annual Reverse Raffle fundraiser on Fri., Mar. 10. The Boardman Local Schools staff members created and donated 25 baskets along with the many donations from businesses in our community and the community at large, for the basket raffle and silent auction, raising $20,000 for the BSFEE fundraiser.
      In 2009, a group of involved Boardman citizens began exploring ways to support and enhance the program of the Boardman Schools and further enrich the lives of our students. In these challenging times, the Boardman Local School District has maintained excellence in its academic, athletic and arts programs in spite of decreased funding from the State of Ohio. Toward the goal of supporting our schools, the Boardman Schools Fund For Educational Excellence was established.
      Joyce Mistovich, President of the BSFEE, states, “Every great school system is supported by an even greater community. Boardman Local Schools joined by our community, have always given our children all of the tools they need to build a legacy of excellence as they move forward in life.”
      Sponsors for BSFEE Reverse Raffle included: Title Sponsors: Phantom Fireworks, Bruce Zoldan and Buckeye Dealership Consulting, Rob & Kris Fox. Gold Sponsors include: Compco Industries, Gwen Smith-Darnell, Greg Smith; Dr. & Mrs. Robert DeMarco; Kate & Sid Jones; Packer Thomas, Rick Schafer; and Signature Granite Company, Tom & Lindsay Skook. Silver Sponsors include: Cal-Ohio Lube Products Co., Robert & Lynn Sahli; Frank & Charleen Lazzeri; Kim Poma; and Rick’s Ranchwear, Rick & Joni Blase. Bronze Sponsors include: Boardman News, John Darnell; Boardman Township Park, Dan Slagle; Farmers Trust, Joe DePascale, President; and Henderson, Covington, Messenger, Newman & Thomas Co., Christopher Newman.
      The BSFEE recently awarded a Grant totaling $7500 to recipients, for the current year 2016-2017 on Dec. 14. Recipients were included at Stadium Drive Elementary, West Blvd. Elementary, Glenwood Jr. High, and music departments K-4 at all elementary schools.
      Through donations over the past 6 1/2 years, the Boardman Schools Fund for Educational Excellence has given back $48,000 to classroom teachers in financial support of projects which extend beyond the scope of funding by the state of Ohio’s educational budget and help students develop their talents and interests by providing our youth with the keys to a successful future.
      The BSFEE are very grateful to the Boardman Education Association for their partnership and continued financial support of their mission. The BSFEE is a component fund of the Community Foundation of the Mahoning Valley.
      For more information or to make a donation visit www.boardmanschoolsfund.org or call the office of the Superintendent at 330-726-3404.
  Township Trustee Told Upgrades Planned At Mall  
  Southern Park Vital Component Of Washington Prime Group:   March 9, 2017 Edition  
     In a post on Facebook last week, Marcie Rossi-Consiglio said to Boardman Township Trustee Brad Calhoun:
      In the wake of all the Southern Park Mall store closings and the lethargic attitude toward mall shopping in general, imagine if we put some pressure on the Southern Park Mall to take on an overhaul project that could mirror what is being down at Firestone Farms (in Columbiana), but on a grander scale. Local shops, boutiques, coffee shops bakeries, etc. It could truly be a remarkable town center along with a great meeting place! Additionally, because it would be new and upscale, we could increase our portfolio of larger chains that have their own following, which would result in a resurgence of our town center. If something isn’t done about the mall soon, Boardman could very well end up with an empty eyesore for years to come. If we say it could never happen to us, I fear that we will have our eyes closed.
      Trustee Calhoun offered the following reply on Tuesday, Mar. 7:
      I forwarded this post to the Washington Prime Group (operators of Southern Park Mall) and the vice president of the company just called. Most of his discussion was confidential due to contractual dealings, but Southern Park Mall is a vital component of their real estate portfolio. They will be spending...$1.2 million in upgrades to the facility and are in negotiations with six, potential retailers looking to enter our market. They just transferred a new manager to the mall, who is excited about his new opportunity. They are going to be aggressive in providing events to bring shoppers to Boardman. So, looking forward to their commitment to our community.
      Kathy Bagan Kurach replied:
      The mall definitely needs much updating.
      Kris Beil-Siman replied:
      I really hope what they are telling you is true. I have been in and out of the mall for 41 years...and I have heard that spiel for most of the time....
      Wendy McQuiston replied:
      Perhaps they could lower the rent just a bit...We belong to model airplane local clubs. Years ago, we used to be able every springtime to put tables up in the middle of the mall...We used to get this for free...Then we got priced out. The mall started to charge rent---even charged for tables. The local clubs had to stop because the rent for the spots were so ridiculously high...Sad for us who really enjoyed it.
   
  by Boardman Man Announces Bid For Ohio Governor   March 9, 2017 Edition  
Joe Schiavoni
      Joe Schiavoni, Democratic leader in the Ohio Senate, 37, of 880 Westport Dr., Boardman, became his party’s first announced candidate for Ohio governor in 2018. In a release announcing his candidacy, he said that he is running “to provide the new generation of leadership we need to move Ohio forward.
      “After seven years of Republican control, we still don’t have the high-paying jobs that places like Youngstown, Toledo and the Ohio Valley so desperately need. Our roads and bridges are falling apart. Our public education system is woefully underfunded. Ohio’s opioid epidemic continues to plague our communities. Meanwhile, Ohio Republicans give hundreds of millions of dollars to failing charter schools and billions in income tax cuts to the very rich.”
      Schiavoni said he is not a career politician.
      “I’m not going to be the anointed candidate. But I am a fighter, the fighter that Ohio needs. I will work harder than anyone, visit every part of the state and meet with every Ohioan I can until I win,” Schiavoni said.
      He has planned a campaign kickoff event for Mon., Mar 13, from 6:00 p.m. to 7:30 p.m. at the Operating Engineers Hall, McClurg Rd. at Southern Blvd.
      Schiavoni says that he is confident he can raise the money to be competitive, saying he raised about $100,000 last month after spending down his campaign account for other campaigns of Democratic senators.
      Schiavoni’s announcement came a day after a charade by U.S. Congressman Tim Ryan, who announced he would not run for governor.
      Other Democrats interested in seeking the governorship include Ohio Congresswoman Betty Sutton and Consumer Financial Protection Bureau Director Richard Cordray.
      Republican John Kasich cannot seek re-election due to term limits.
      The Ohio GOP already has several public officials indicating they will ran for governor, including Attorney General Mike DeWine, Secretary of State Jon Husted, U.S. Rep. Jim Renacci of Wadsworth and Kasich’s lieutenant governor, Mary Taylor.
      Schiavoni says “Our next governor must be someone who can speak to voters in all parts of the state — urban, suburban and rural. Someone who will fight for all Ohioans, no matter where they live and no matter who they voted for in the past. Someone who can talk to people who don’t regularly vote and inspire them to get involved and help bring about real change. Someone who tells it like it is and won’t make promises they can’t keep.”
  Mario LaMarca’s Pizza Joe’s Takes Honors For Best Gourmet Pizza  
  March 9, 2017 Edition  
     At the Mahoning Valley Pizza Cook-Off held Sun., Mar. 5 at Mr. Anthony’s in Boardman, Mario LaMarca’s Pizza Joe’s, 6810 Market St., won first place for Best Gourmet Pizza.
  Annual Friends Of Scouting Breakfast Fundraiser April 25 At Holiday Inn  
  March 2, 2017 Edition  
      The 12th Annual Celebration of Scouting Breakfast will be held on Tues., Apr. 25 at the Holiday Inn-Boardman, 7410 South Ave., Boardman. Doors open at 7:00 a.m. and breakfast is served from 7:30 a.m. to 8:00 a.m. Program will conclude by 9:00 a.m.
      The fundraising breakfast is a wonderful tradition and celebration of Scouting’s impact on Mahoning County. Attendees include individuals from area businesses, community leaders as well as those who believe in the Scouting program. The breakfast event will introduce you to the lessons Scouts learn for life along with the Scouting traditions their family and friends have experienced.
      Members of the 2017 Whispering Pines Friends of Scouting Breakfast Committe include: John Barkett, Katie Burkey, Albin Dearing, Stephen Halloran, Kurt Hilderbrand, Mike Kupec, Laura Kupec, Mark Luke, Bill Moss, John Russell, John Yerian and John Brkic, Whipering Pines District Executive.
      For reservations or more information contact John Brkic 440-313-7654 or john.brkic@scouting.org. Reservation deadline is Apr. 7.
  39th St. Pat’s Parade Will Be Sun., Mar. 12  
  March 2, 2017 Edition  
     The 39th annual St. Patrick’s Parade will be held Sun., Mar. 12 in Boardman, beginning at 1:00 p.m. at the Township Government Center and traveling to Southwoods Dr.
      Youngstown State University 2017 Penguin of the Year and former Mahoning County Commissioner, Ed Reese, will serve as grand marshal of this year’s parade.
      Other special honorees will be Kevin McGuire, Bob Hankey and Sharon Sabatka.
      Theme for this year’s ‘March on Market St.’ will be “May The Irish Be With You.”
      “The Mahoning Valley St. Patrick’s Parade is one of the largest parades in the state of Ohio. Each year 25,000 to 30,000 spectators come out to celebrate this beloved family tradition,” says parade committee president Joyce Kale-Pesta.
      Other members of the parade committee include Casey Malone, director’ Robb Kale, treasurer; Sabatka, secretary; and Jason Calinger, head marshal.
      Serving as parade marshals will be Bill Leskovec, Jason Calinger, Anthony Sabatka, Terry Coyle, Brian Kelly, Doug Sherl, Joe Illencik Sr., Mike Timlin, Gus Gustafson, Lenny Sefcik, Jim Doran, Ray Kelly IV, Tom Eich Esq., Tim Kelly, Anthony Wanio, Rob Pappas, Lee Arent, Rich Perrine, Kent Hildebrand, Kelsey Warmley, Nick Mozingo, Alex Mangie, Rob Tamburro, Dante Lewis, Dennis Murphy, Anthony Magrini, David Manion , Ashley Kale, Michelle Rucci, Bob Hankey, Adam Hankey, Kurt Hildebrand, Buzz Kelty, Larry Kacenga and Larry Harwell.
      Members of the parade committee include Tom Butler, Terry Brennan, Joe Calinger, Pat Chrystal, Marilyn Carroll, Julaine Gilmartin, James ‘Muggsy’ McGuinness, Dolly Milick, John Sheridan, Mary Jane Venitti and Grant Williams.
  Seventh District Appeals Court Says Search Of A Car That Yielded More Than 150 Tabs Of Ecstasy Was Legal  
  March 2, 2017 Edition  
     In a ruling this month, the Seventh District Court of Appeals denied a request to strike evidence seized from search of a car that led to a drug trafficking conviction of a now 34-year-old woman. The search yielded more than 150 tablets of MDMA (ecstasy).
      Michelle Prado, formerly of 90 Washington Blvd., will remain in jail until Sept., 2017, as a result of the ruling.
      In June, 2012, police executed a search warrant at 90 Washington Blvd. at 5:58 p.m.
      Four minutes before entering Prado’s apartment, police made a traffic stop on the 2006 Dodge Charger that Prado was driving.
      Inside the center console of the car, police found the MDMA, as well as an opiod pain medication, opana.
      At the scene of the traffic stop, Det. Michael Dado asked Prado if there was anything illegal in her car or her apartment.
      She initially answered ‘no,’ according to Det. Dado, who said that shortly thereafter Prado admitted to having a few opana pills and several ecstasy tabs in the center console of the car.
      When asked how many, according to Dado, Prado replied, “enough.”
      She told police, according to Dado, she took the opana for pain and the ecstasy “because she likes it.”
      According to the decision from the Seventh District Court, two confidential informants had told Det. Dado that Prado sold ecstasy and prescription drugs from her apartment. Dado was also told that Prado delivered the drugs in her car.
      Subsequently, Det. Dado obtained a search warrant from Boardman Court Judge Joseph Houser for Prado’s apartment and all vehicles that were associated with that residence.
      When police stopped the car driven by Prado and in which the drugs were found, police said another female and her 14-year-old daughter were also in the car.
      In Sept., 2012, Prado was indicted on felony possession of drug and trafficking in drugs.
      The case lingered in Mahoning County Common Pleas Court for more than two years, and finally, on Dec. 22, 2014, Prado entered a no contest plea and was found guilty of both counts and sentenced to four years in jail. She was also ordered to pay a $10,000 fine.
      Defense attorney Louis DeFabio filed an appeal, contending the search of Prado’s car was illegal.
      DeFabio said the findings of the search of the car should have been suppressed (withheld from the court record), because Det. Dado’s failed to provide sufficient probable cause to connect Prado’s vehicle to any alleged wrongdoing, and finally that the police officer “could not reasonable rely” on the warrant in searching Prado’s car, because the warrant “specifically’ authorized the search of any vehicle present on the premises of the apartment building.
      Mahoning County Prosecutor Paul Gains and Assistant Prosecutor Ralph Rivera argued the search warrant indeed applied to Prado’s car, emphasizing that Det. Dado verified the confidential informant’s tip that Prado owned the 2006 Charger that she was driving.
      The Seventh District decision, authored by Judge Cheryl Waite, held that the search warrant authorized the search of Prado’s vehicle.
      Judge Waite said that DeFabio’s appeal was without merit and was overruled, affirming Prado’s jail sentence.
      While Prado’s case lingered in the common pleas court for more than two years, the convicted drug dealer came to the attention of local police three times in 2014.
      In May, 2014, police were called to 7526 Glenwood Ave. where Prado and 36-year-old Lizette Salas had a dispute over Salas wanting to remove Prado’s belongings from the house while Prado went out of town.
      In June, 2014, Prado was arrested at 7526 Glenwood Ave. and charged with domestic violence and criminal damaging. In this incident, Ptl. Jamison Diglaw reported that Salas had redness and swelling to the left side of her face.
      Salas told police that Prado had punched her in the face three times during an argument over relationship issues.
      “Officers learned that Salas and Prado have known each other for about the past five years. They have dated for about the last four and a half years, and have resided together in a spousal relationship for about the last nine months,” Officer Anthony Ciccotelli said at the time.
      And in July, 2014, Prado and Salas again drew the attention of the police, who again were called to 7526 Glenwood Ave., where the two women were again arguing.
      According to the Ohio Department of Rehabilitation and Corrections, Prado began her jail sentence on Dec. 24, 2014, to begin a mandatory three-year jail sentence that expires Sept. 5, 2017.
  Old Boardman Stadium Stands Torn Down  
  February 23, 2017 Edition  
     photo/John A. Darnell jr.
      A PART OF BOARDMAN’S HISTORY WAS RAZED THIS WEEK when Wilford’s Roll-Off, of McDonald, Oh., tore down metal bleachers at old Boardman Stadium. The work was completed at a cost of $13,000. Concrete stands at the old stadium site will remain in place, school business manager Jack Zocolo said this week.
  Lions Club Race Night Will Be Held Sat., Mar. 4  
  February 23, 2017 Edition  
      The Boardman Lions Club will hold its annual Night at the Races Fundraiser Sat., Mar. 4 at the Operating Engineers Hall on McClurg Rd. The $15 entrance fee includes an all-you-can-eat buffet sponsored by several area restaurants, beer and a variety of non-alcoholic beverages.
      Doors will open at 6:00 p.m. with races beginning at 7:00. Tickets can be purchased at the door the night of the event.
      The evening will also feature a 50/50 raffle, basket raffle and silent auction with baskets donated from a variety of area restaurants, specialty shops and events.
      Proceeds from the event will be used to support the following projects: The annual Coats for Kids Project, Eye Glass purchase and eye exams for needy Boardman children and adults, maintenance of flower gardens for Boardman Welcome Signs, two scholarships for Boardman High School seniors and the purchase of trees for fourth grade students.
  Choosing The Right Professional To Help You With Your Journey  
  by Jack Wilkins   February 23, 2017 Edition  
      Today, many people have somebody to help them with their health and wellness goals. Mainly they have a personal trainer to help them with their fitness goals and a dietitian or nutritionist to help them with their meal planning and diet. This can be a huge benefit. This professional can help a person stay motivated, stay on track, plan and set their goals, and help them achieve those goals. But the first thing that needs to be done in all of this is choosing the right professional to help you, and that can turn out to be a very big hassle. So many times I hear of people going from personal trainer to personal trainer trying to find the right one to help them reach their goals. There are so many things to look at, but I’m going to give a few tips and things to keep your eyes open for to help you choose the right professional for you.
      One of the main things to check for is credentials. Look for degrees, certifications, and any form of validation that shows they are suited to help you in this field. You want to make sure they are legitimate in being able to help you. If they do have certifications, then check for reviews. Normally, if they are legitimate and have experience, you can find reviews. Ask somebody that also uses them. Look for reviews online. Meet with them and check their office for progress pictures of clients and credentials on the wall. You want to make sure you find somebody who not only has experience, but also has a good reputation of providing a quality service. Also, if it’s somebody newer in the field and they are advertising hard, always check to see if they have the experience and reputation to back up what they claim.
      Next is make sure the person knows how to help you reach your goals. Be positive that they listen to you and what you are saying. So many times a trainer won’t listen to what you tell them, and will use all of the same techniques they use with themselves or with other clients. Nobody is the same so that doesn’t work. You want to make sure that you are being helped and trained in accordance to your goals. If you aren’t, then that is a sign you need to find another professional to help you. You will know you’re not because you will have little or no progress towards your goals.
      Another important thing is if they are helping you to learn or not. One of my biggest focal points when I work with somebody is to hopefully help them to learn as they go. They may want to work with me continuously, but I always try to help them learn and realize why they are doing, why they are doing it, and how to do it. This way if something happens, if I get sick for example and have to be off for a few days, they are still able to get a workout in and know exactly what to do. This way the client is not clueless, and can still make progress towards their goals. Another main thing is to make sure your trainer knows how to work around injuries, whether they be minor and acute or major and chronic. An experienced trainer with good knowledge will know how to work around mostly all injuries. They will know how to maintain your progress, and many times help you gain progress. They should never make you work through an injury, and even make you do a movement if it hurts or you feel pain. The old “no pain, no gain” theory is not a good one to follow.
      Those are just a few main things out of many to look for and help you out if you are looking for a health professional to guide you to reach your goals and help you progress. Keep these things in mind and hopefully they are useful to you in your decision making process. Just remember when hiring somebody to help you, there are there for just that, to help YOU. Make sure that is what they are doing. Always research and investigate before making any decisions and that will help you obtain the right professional to keep you guided toward your goals.
      Fore more information contact Jack Wilins (JACKed Health), 330-565-0352, www.jackedhealth.com
  Henry Nemenz Will Be Honored At Curbstone HOF  
  February 23, 2017 Edition  
     BY GREG GULAS contributor
      Ceremonies for the 50th Curbstone Coaches Hall of Fame Banquet are set for Sunday, May 7 at Mr. Anthony’s Banquet Center in Boardman with 13 new members set for enshrinement. Former Cardinal Mooney and University of Michigan football standout, NFL Super Bowl champion and local business entrepreneur Ed Muransky will serve as guest speaker.
      The 2017 class includes Jeff Bayuk (football, coach), Mark Brungard (football), Jim Bryant (bowling), Bruce Burge (contribution to sports), John Cullen (basketball, coach), Tony DelBene (baseball), Wally Ford, Jr. (all-sports award), Jim O’Malley (football), Anthony Montana (special award), Henry Nemenz (posthumous award), Craig Snyder (boxing), Tammy Swearingen (volleyball, coach) and Dave Veitz (special award).
      The lone posthumous honoree this year is the late Henry P. Nemenz Sr. whose father, Gustav, established the first Nemenz grocery store in 1930 during the Great Depression and beginning in 1956, when he began working in the family business as a meat cutter, helped oversee the opening of some 25 different retail grocery locations while actively supporting many causes and youth teams during a stellar seven-decade entrepreneurial business career.
      Born November 12, 1938, he was a graduate of North Lima High School where he played sports under the watchful eye of former YSU women’s basketball coach and 1992 Curbstone Coaches Hall of Famer, Ed DiGregorio.
      He opened his first store in 1976, Nemenz Valu King in Boardman and over the years built and remodeled numerous grocery stores in the area.
      At the time of his death on June 12, 2015, he was president and CEO of H.P. Nemenz Foods Stores, Inc. and was owner of two IGA Supercenter Stores and several Save-A-Lot locations.
      Over the years and under the direction of this year’s inductee, Nemenz Enterprise Holdings, Inc. (started in 1955) was selected as Ohio “Grocer of the Year,” “Retailer Grocer of the Year” and in 2012, was named “Multiple Location Retail Grocer of the Year” by the esteemed Ohio Grocers Association; an award that recognizes the corporate commitment and delivery of the finest in service, employee relations, customer satisfaction and pricing.
      He taught his children well and through his dedication and perseverance the family tradition continues as all are in the Nemenz IGA and Save-A-Lot grocery business.
      Always first to lend a helping hand for those in need or to assist in a fundraiser, among the many groups and organizations, Nemenz assisted through sports and academic donations are the Youngstown City Schools, Team Challenge, St. Dominic’s Church, Hispanic Church Community, Cafe Augustine at Newport Library, St. Columba Cathedral, East Side Community Block Watch & Community Group and Lazarus Housing Project.
      He supported Boardman sports (soccer and softball) teams, Canfield Little Cardinals, Austintown Football, Poland Rotary, Holy Family Parish, the popular Chili Open Golf Classic, Struthers and St. Patrick’s Day Parade celebrations while always honoring all veterans and their requests.
      Nemenez also support to the Struthers Gridiron Club, City schools and sports, Early Childhood Development initiatives, St. Nicholas fundraisers. Struthers Police and Fire and the Struthers Rotary.
      A member and past-president of the Poland Rotary Club, he was past chairman of their annual Chili Open Golf Classic and was honored as a prestigious Paul Harris Fellow.
      He was past chairman of the American Cancer Society, past co-chairman of the Celebrity Celebration for the Heart Association, past member of the board of the Mill Creek Learning Center, Hospice of the Valley, First Federal Savings Bank of Youngstown, the Mahoning Chapter of the American Red Cross and Youngstown State University Penguin Club.
      For his many contributions he was honored as “Small Business Person of the Year Award” (1987), was named “Citizen of the Year” in 1989, was honored as “Outstanding Individual Philanthropist” in 1992, Mahoning Valley Fabulous 20 Award in 1994, Channel 33 Entrepreneur Award in 2004, Shenango Valley Chamber of Commerce, Chamber “Person of the Year” in 2008, received the “H.O.P.E. Award” in 2014 and the St. Vincent DePaul “President’s Award” for Outstanding Service in 2015.
      Henry is the father of three daughters, Judy (Don) Gabriele of Poland, Elaine (John) Kawecki of Salem and Joyce (Chris) Herubin of Salem, and son, Henry P. (Sheree) of Poland.
      Further information on the Curbstone HOF can be obtained by calling 330-519-6819 or by visiting www.curbstonecoaches.org.
  Police Chief Jack Nichols To End 40-Year Career  
  February 16, 2017 Edition  
Boardman Police Chief Jack Nichols
      Boardman Police Chief Jack Nichols has told Boardman Trustees that he intends to retire, effective Jan. 6, 2018. His retirement will end a 40-year career in law enforcement, including serving since Sept. 9, 2009 as Chief of the Boardman Police Department. He began his career with the local department on Jan. 3, 1978.
      Chief Nichols, a graduate of Cardinal Mooney High School, Youngstown State University and the FBI National Academy, began his tenure as chief when the ranks of the department had been depleted in the wake of the tumultuous term of Trustee Kathy Miller, and manpower fell by some 15 officers.
      Under Chief Nichols, manpower has been restored to 64 officers, and the department’s Narcotics Enforcement Unit has been granted full authority in its efforts to combat rampant illegal drug use in the community.
      Chief Nichols was instrumental in the development of a countywide, emergency radio system, working in conjunction with Austintown police and county commissioners.
      He helped to develop the Prescription Drug Drop-Off program at the police department, working with Ohio Attorney General Mike De-Wine. The Drug Drop-off site is one of the most frequently visited places in the Township Government Center.
      Chief Nichols, working with Boardman Local School Supt. Frank Lazzeri, established and expanded the School Resource Officer program, and also established a direct radio link with the local school system for use in emergency situations. He later expanded those radio links to the Southern Park Mall and local hospitals.
      Of note, Chief Nichols rebuffed efforts by St. Elizabeth Hospital, that wanted their private, hospital security force to have the same powers as local police.
      In addition, he developed fleet management and car replacement protocols.
      “I cannot even begin to enumerate the blessings I have experienced because of my time as part of the Boardman team,” Chief Nichols said.
      He noted the selection of the next police chief is “very important to the community. I will do anything I can to assist the Board of Trustees in the selection, and transition of a new chief.”
      PICTURED: BOARDMAN POLICE CHIEF JACK NICHOLS WILL RETIRE, effective Jan. 6, 2018. He succeeded Patrick Berarducci on Sept. 9, 2009, following the election of Trustees Tom Costello and Brad Calhoun.
  Kiwanis Club’s Night At Races Supports Many Community Efforts  
  Saturday, March 4:   February 16, 2017 Edition  
     The Boardman Lions Club will hold its annual Night at the Races fundraiser Sat., Mar. 4 at the Operating Engineers Hall on McClurg Rd. A $15 entrance fee includes an all-you-can-eat buffet sponsored by several area restaurants, beer and a variety of non-alcoholic beverages. Doors will open at 6:00 p.m. with races beginning at 7:00. Tickets can be purchased at the door the night of the event.
      The evening will also feature a 50/50 raffle, basket raffle and silent auction with baskets donated from a variety of area restaurants, specialty shops and events.
      Proceeds from this fundraiser will be used to support the following projects: The annual Coats for Kids Project, eye glass purchase and eye exams for needy Boardman children and adults, maintenance of flower gardens for Boardman ‘Welcome Signs,’ two scholarships for Boardman seniors and the purchase of trees for fourth grade students.
      To learn more about the Boardman Lions Club and Night at the Races, visit BoardmanLions.com
     
     
     
  Cattle Baron’s Ball Will Be Held April Fools’ Day At The Lake Club  
  February 16, 2017 Edition  
     On Saturday, April 1, 2017 the Lake Club will host the annual American Cancer Society’s Cattle Baron’s Ball.
      This year’s honorees, chairs and special guests include:
       •Cancer Survivor Honoree: Lawrence A. DiDomenico, DPM
       •Medical Honoree: Richard G. Barr, MD, PhD.
       •Special Guests, Pediatric Cancer Survivors: Brett Wilcox, Ava Timko
       •Honorary Chairs: Bob and Katy Shroder
       •Event Chairs: Carole Weimer, Annette Camacci
       •Mistress of Ceremonies: Lauren Wood, WKBN
      “We are very excited to be chairing the 11th annual American Cancer Society Cattle Baron’s Ball in our community. We are honored to have such a distinguished group of honorees and special guests committed to helping fight cancer and are proud to announce as well that a portion of the program will be dedicated to raising funds specifically for childhood research funded by the American Cancer Society in honor of our special guests, Brett Wilcox and Ava Timko, who give so much hope and inspiration,” said the event co-chairs.
      The Cattle Baron’s Ball will offer attendees a lively, western-themed ‘Denim and Diamonds’ party featuring gourmet cuisine, dancing, musical entertainment, live and silent auctions and much more. Attendees are encouraged to come adorned in their favorite country-western get-ups.
      The event is made possible through the support of sponsors---Something New Floral & Events and Joe Mineo Creative, Mr. and Mrs. Ed and Chris Muransky, Mercy Health, Mercy Health Foundation, Core Health & Fitness, and Lamar Youngstown.
      Live entertainment will be provided byCleveland’s premier band, Shout! To purchase tickets, provide a sponsorship or auction items, contact the American Cancer Society at 330-517-2068 or Jamie.Heinl@cancer.org or visit www.youngstowncattlebaronsball.org.
     
  LEGAL NOTICE  
  February 16, 2017 Edition  
     POLICE DISPATCHER
      BOARDMAN TOWNSHIP
      POLICE DEPARTMENT
      The Boardman Township Trustees are seeking to fill the position of full-time Dispatcher (40 hrs. per week), in the Police Department. Applicant must accept all shifts including weekends & holidays. Initial consideration will be given to applicants with previous dispatch experience. Must possess a high school diploma, and undergo a successful background investigation, physical exam, and complete a 1 year probationary period. Responsibilities: answer incoming calls (911 and non-emergency); multi-tasking communication skills; assess critical situations and prioritize; disseminate information accurately; deal with the public in a professional, service-oriented manner. Applications can be obtained at the Boardman Twp. Police Department Records Room or online at the Township website, Boardmantwp.com (click on Employment). Applications should be submitted to: Lt. Albert Kakascik, Boardman Police Department, 8299 Market Street, Boardman, Ohio 44512. CLOSING DATE 3.4.17 EEO
  YSU Penguin Club Will Honor Ed Reese Feb. 28 At Annual Ring Banquet  
  February 9, 2017 Edition  
Ed Reese
     Former Mahoning County Commissioner and noted local businessman Ed Reese will be honored as Penguin of the Year when the Youngstown State University Penguin Club holds it annual Scholarship Ring Banquet Tues., Feb. 28 at 6:00 p.m. at Mr. Anthony’s Famous Banquet Center in Boardman.
      Each year the Ring Banquet celebration highlights the tremendous accomplishments of the Penguin student athletes, coaches and contributors.
      Reese is a member and past president of the Penguin Club Board of Trustees. His term expires in 2019.
      Reese is a constant supporter of the Youngstown State athletic program. His many contributions are often given anonymously. Among his contributions to YSU is a scholarship he established in honor of his Little League coach, Steve Barbato; and his contributions to the Beeghly Weight Room.
      Reese is a 1977 graduate of Cardinal Mooney High School and a 1983 graduate of Bowling Green State University with a bachelor of science degree in gerontology.
      The following year, he was licensed as a nursing home administrator by the state of Ohio.
      Locally, Reese has been a pioneer in the development of quality, senior-assisted living, building such facilities as the Inn at Christine Valley, the Inn at Briarfield, Inn at Ironwood and Inn at Poland Way.
      His professional career includes more than 25 years in the healthcare and rehabilitation fields.
      Reese is currently president of EDM Management, Inc. which provides comprehensive business support, consulting and management services in the senior healthcare and residential sectors. EDM Management operates the Briarfield Health Care Centers, managing six facilities with more 500 employees in Mahoning, County.
      He also owns Creekside Fitness & Health Center, one of the premier health centers in the area, established in Dec., 1999. The facility also offers more than 60 group exercise classes per week
      He served as Mahoning County commissioner for nearly ten years from 1995 to 2005, chairing the board in 1996 and from 2002-2004.
      Reese has been involved in a variety of projects to benefit his parish and his alma mater. He serves on the finance committee of St. Christine Parish and formerly was a member of the Parish Council. In 2007, he was named distinguished alumnus of St. Christine School. He was a member of the parish’s gymnasium building committee and annually hosts the Ohio State-Michigan Dinner to benefit the gymnasium fund.
      He has been active in both the Cardinal Mooney Alumni Association and The Golden Cardinals.
      His long list of community activities and affiliations include his selection as A.O.H. Man of the Year in 1999 and “Co-Lord Mayor of Kilkenny” for the 2008 St. Patrick’s Day Parade. He is a member and past president of the Community Corrections Association Board of Directors and a member of the CASTLO Community Improvement Corporation.
      Reese has chaired the Mahoning County Community Health Board and served on the Boardman Township Zoning Board and Mahoning County Planning Commission. In addition, he has served on the District XI Area Agency on Aging, Mahoning County Community Improvement Corporation and EASTGATE Council of Governments.
      He is past president of the Van Sickle Foundation for Kids, served as co-chair of the March of Dimes Walk for America..
      Ticket information for the Ring Dinner can be obtained by calling 330-941-2351.
      Penguins of the Year
      2016.............................David C. Deibel
      2015............................The Gasser Family
      2014..............................Don Constantini
      2013.................Mincey and Schmutz Families
      2012....................Dennis and Janet Haines
      2011.......Dianne and Michael Miladore, and the
        O’Leary Family
      2010..................................Sam Covelli
      2009...........................Coach Jim Tressel
      2008..................Coach Dwight “Dike” Beede
      2007........Football | Softball | Women’s Indoor
         Track and Field Champions
      2006....................YSU Football Alumni Group
      2005..............Joe Malmisur | Helen Stambaugh
      2004......Ed DiGregorio and Ray Travaglini Family
      2003.................Bill Knecht | Gene DeFilippo
      2002...........................Clarence R. Smith
      2001...Paul McFadden, Mary B. Smith, Jeff Wilkins
      2000.........................Bob Davie, Bob Dove
      1999.................Steve Bartolin, Dom Rosselli
      1998................................Ron Jaworski
      1997................................Carmen Policy
      1996..................................Ed O’Neill
     
  LEGAL NOTICE  
  February 9, 2017 Edition  
     NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING
      The Boardman Township Board of Appeals shall hold a Public Hearing on Tuesday, February 21, 2017 at 7:00 PM at the Boardman Township Government Center, 8299 Market Street, Boardman Township, Ohio 44512, for consideration of the following cases:
      APPEAL CASE AC-2017-04
      Danielle Saker, 3527 Hopkins Road, Youngstown, Ohio 44511, agent of Heritage Home for Youth LLC, DBA Heritage Home for Girls, requests a conditional use variance for the terms of the Boardman Township Zoning Resolution, effective May 29, 2012, Article XVI Administration, Section I Conditional Use Regulations to allow for the operation of a group home for youth at 4703 Market Street, Boardman, Ohio 44512. The property is further known as Lot 126 Shadyside Pl, Parcel Number 29-001-0-498.00-0. Said property is zoned Commercial, in Boardman Township, Mahoning County, State of Ohio.
      Text and maps of the request may be viewed at the Boardman Township Zoning Office, 8299 Market Street, Boardman, Ohio 44512 Monday through Friday, between the hours of 8:00 AM and 4:00 PM, until time of hearing.
      Atty. John F. Shultz, Chairman
      Boardman Township Board of Appeals
      Krista D. Beniston, AICP
      Director of Zoning and Development
  LEGAL NOTICE  
  February 9, 2017 Edition  
     POLICE DISPATCHER
      BOARDMAN TOWNSHIP
      POLICE DEPARTMENT
      The Boardman Township Trustees are seeking to fill the position of full-time Dispatcher (40 hrs. per week), in the Police Department. Applicant must accept all shifts including weekends & holidays. Initial consideration will be given to applicants with previous dispatch experience. Must possess a high school diploma, and undergo a successful background investigation, physical exam, and complete a 1 year probationary period. Responsibilities: answer incoming calls (911 and non-emergency); multi-tasking communication skills; assess critical situations and prioritize; disseminate information accurately; deal with the public in a professional, service-oriented manner. Applications can be obtained at the Boardman Twp. Police Department Records Room or online at the Township website, Boardmantwp.com (click on Employment). Applications should be submitted to: Lt. Albert Kakascik, Boardman Police Department, 8299 Market Street, Boardman, Ohio 44512. CLOSING DATE 3.4.17 EEO
  LEGAL NOTICE  
  February 9, 2017 Edition  
     LEGAL NOTICE
      Please be advised that the 2016 Annual Financial Report of Boardman Township is complete and has been sent to the Auditor of Stte. These Statements can be picked up at the Township Government center.
      William D. Leicht
      Boardman Township
      Fiscal Officer.
  A Test Of Wit Can Lead To Escape Boardman  
  February 9, 2017 Edition  
     Looking for something different. Just opened at Glenwood and Rt. 224, is Escape Boardman, a hands-on and mind-bending problem-solving experience designed to provide guests with an experience like no other in Mahoning County!
      Escape Boardman, 7523 Glenwood Ave., is an adventure game that allows a group of people to be put in a themed room to solve a series of puzzles in a set amount of time.
      The business is open Fridays and Saturdays, from 4:00 p.m. to 10:00 p.m., with private bookings available.
      “Our passion all started with a group of friends, neighbors and family that loved Halloween. We spent endless hours of constructing, decorating, and designing a themed Halloween party for our annual house party. This grew as the years went on and it rivaled a movie production increasing our guests by the hundreds,” says Nancy Smith, owner of the new business.
      “It also increased our amount of props, theme designs and decorations. As the years grew, we became more detailed and more intense about the production. But it all ended in one night.
      “We decided to channel these ideas toward a business. One of our friends, Joe Glenn, owner of Zombie Skins, is a makeup artist who is in the haunt industry. We went to a trade show in St. Louis for the haunt industry and learned escape rooms derived from this industry as a way for haunted house owners to have a business that operated throughout the year. So we decided at to open our own escape room with the props we had collected over the years to provide Boardman, as well as Mahoning Valley residents with some entertainment that is a little outside of the box,” Smith said.
      Escape Boardman’s have an eclectic group of owners that allowed them to do all the preparation internally.
      Ivan Bosnjak, is an engineer who did all the construction.
      Jeff Humphrey has a security integrator background and has done most of the wiring and implementation of Light-O-Rama and special lighting effects in the rooms.
      Joe Terlecky has an IT background and has done most of our computer work.
      Smith, is an accountant who handles all of the accounting work and owns most of the props as the Halloween parties were held at her house.
      And there’s Don Hepler, who has a sales and marketing background. He has worked with a friend of ours, Ryan Kellar, who manages Captured Moments Art. Together they have provided the art work in the rooms.
      There is also two board members who are spouses of two of the owners. Sue Terlecky provided social media set up and research. Greg Smith created video and voicing effects for both rooms.
      The two rooms at Escape Boardman include the Vampire Lair, a 60-minute, two-part puzzle-solving room with the object to find your friends and get the vampire before the sun goes down. Guests have one hour to use the clues in the room to escape
      A second room, Winter Wonderland, is a 45-minute puzzle solving room with the object of finding the presents and saving Christmas before the children awake.
      “We plan on changing our Winter Wonderland room to a new theme in the spring sometime,” Smith said.
      Private bookings and additional information about Escape Boardman can be obtained by calling 330-953-2170, or on the web at www.escapeboardman.com.
     
      PICTURED: AT RIBBON-CUTTING ceremonies held last week at Escape Boardman, were two of the new firm’s owners, Ivan Bosnjak and Nancy Smith.
  BHS Alumni Association Seeks Distinguished Award Nominees  
  February 9, 2017 Edition  
     The Boardman Alumni Association is seeking applications for nominees for the Boardman High School Distinguished Alumni Award.
      The Alumni Award is the highest honor bestowed by the alumni association and recognizes outstanding alumni of Boardman High School who have maintained a high standard of excellence and made a significant contribution in their endeavors. Nominees must exemplify the ideals and spirit of Boardman High School and should serve as role models for current and future Boardman High School students., says Cheyl Tarantino, president of the alumni group.
      The Boardman High School Alumni Association Distinguished Alumni Award is presented each year at the Boardman High School Honors Assembly in May.
      Nominees for this award must meet the following criteria:
      • The nominee must have graduated from Boardman High School a minimum of 20 years prior to the year in which the award will be presented.
      • The nominee must have demonstrated recognized achievement in his/her profession, community, and/or charitable endeavors.
      The nomination and selection process will be administered as follows:
      Anyone can submit a nomination. Self-nominations are also permitted. Nominees not selected for the award in previous years will be considered unless they withdraw their nomination.
      All nomination forms must be received by the Boardman High School Alumni Association by Mar. 15 via email to boardmanalumni@gmail.com or mailed to BAA, PO Box 3474, Boardman, Oh., 44513.
      Annually, up to two individual nominees with the best cumulative rankings will be considered the recipient(s) of the Distinguished Alumni Award.
      Nomination forms can be obtained by emailing boardmanalumni@gmail.com; or call Cheryl Tarantino at 330-507-5454 for more information.
  Boardman Schools Fund for Educational Excellence  
  2nd Annual Reverse Raffle Mar. 10:   February 2, 2017 Edition  
     The Boardman Schools Fund for Educational Excellence will hold its 2nd annual Reverse Raffle Dinner on Fri., Mar. 10, at the Holiday Inn on South Ave. in Boardman. Doors open at 6:00 p.m. There will be a series of dinner gift certificates and cash prizes given away during the course of the evening, with a grand prize of $2,000. Since 2009, the Boardman Schools Fund For Educational Excellence, a component fund of the Community Foundation of the Mahoning Valley, has awarded more than $48,000 in grants.“These are all grants that further the educational interests and talents of our students, and we appreciate the Boardman Education Association for partnering with us in the effort, ” said Fund President Joyce Mistovich. Tickets for a night of dining, fun, and multiple chances to win are $50 each. Call Jody Stepan to order tickets, at 330-726-3404.
  Boardman Methodist Church Organist Sean Baran In Dana Concert Feb. 14  
  February 2, 2017 Edition  
      Youngstown State University’s Dana School of Music announces a Valentine’s Day faculty piano recital by Boardman United Methodist Church organist Sean Baran, on Tues., Feb. 14, at 7:30 p.m. in Bliss Recital Hall. The event is free and open to the public. Patrons are encouraged to bring their special Valentine for an evening of romantic music.
      The repertoire includes “Dedication” by Schumann/Transcribed by Franz Liszt; Three Fantasies, Op. 111 by Robert Schumann; Four Pieces, Op. 119 by Johannes Brahms; Three Love Songs—“Gently, Johnny;” “My Jingalo;” “Shenandoah” and “Lolly-Too-Dum” by Nelson Keyes, and Vincent Persichetti’s Third Piano Sonata, Op. 22.
      “The love triangle between Robert Schumann, Clara Schumann, and Johannes Brahms is one of the most quintessential stories of romance in the history of western art music,” Baran said.
      The first half of the program will feature music by Robert Schumann and Johannes Brahms that highlights the supportive and intimate relationship shared between the three prominent musical figures of 19th century Germany.
      The second half of the program includes pieces by two 20th century American composers whose compositions emphasize the importance of their spouse’s presence in their lives. “The Three Love Songs” by Nelson Keyes includes the famous tune “Shenandoah” and was written as a birthday gift for the composer’s wife. Even more striking and profound, all twelve of Vincent Persichetti’s piano sonatas bear the following dedication: ‘All of these sonatas are for and because of Dorothea Persichetti.
      Parking will be available in the M30 Wick Avenue parking deck via Walnut Street (GPS address is 100 Wade Street, Youngstown, for a nominal fee. Patrons are advised to watch for posted detours as construction progresses on Wick Avenue.
      More information is available by calling the Office of Community Engagement and Events at 330-941-2307.
  Youngstown Symphony Society Presents Nai-Ni Chen Dance Studio  
  Celebrate Chinese New Year Feb. 11:   February 2, 2017 Edition  
     The Youngstown Symphony Society will present the Nai-Ni Chen Dance Company in celebration of the Chinese New Year on Sat., Feb. 11 at the DeYor Performing Arts Center, beginning at 5:00 p.m. in the Grand Lobby of Powers Auditorium, with Chinese inspired appetizers and cocktails and an informal showing of Chinese garments on loan from the Chinese Embassy. Guests will adjourn to the stage of Powers Auditorium for dinner followed by the Nai-Ni Chen Dance Company performance in Ford Family Recital Hall at 8:00 p.m.
      The evening will bring the Mahoning Valley close to one of the world’s most celebrated festivals, the Spring Festival in China which commemorates Chinese New Year and the Year of the Rooster. Proceeds from the event will benefit the Youngstown Symphony Orchestra Educational Outreach programs. During dinner guests will have the opportunity at the live auction to bid on a Chautauqua weekend and performance by Aretha Franklin, a Chinese dinner for eight prepared by Dr. Y. T. Chiu at Overture and a collection of Chinese artifacts.
      Following the performance, Gala attendees will enjoy a dessert buffet and meet and greet with the Dance Company.
      Those wishing to only attend the dance performance beginning at 8:00 p.m. may do so by calling the DeYor box office at 330-744-0264 or online at youngstownsymphony.com. Reserved seating begins at $35 with special children and senior prices available. The performance suitable for young and old alike will capture the playful Lion Dance, Peacock Dance and the colorful Ribbon Dance accompanied by Chinese instruments to folk and ancient Asian melodies.
     
  4th Annual Art Show At Davis YMCA Feb. 5 - Mar. 5  
  February 2, 2017 Edition  
     The Davis Family YMCA, 45 McClurg Rd., is holding its 4th annual FIVE Squared benefit art show and sale from February 5 -March 5.
      An opening reception will be held Sun., Feb. 5, from 1:00 p.m. to 2:30 p.m. More than 450 pieces of 5-inch art from eight countries and eight states will be up for purchase at $25 each or 5/$100 (youth art is $10, 6/$50). Raffle tickets will be sold until 2:00 p.m for a coveted place in line. Ten tickets will be drawn, with the lucky winners able to purchase one piece of their choice before the general sale opens at 2:30 p.m. Beginning at 2:30, art will be sold on a first come, first served basis.
      In addition to the hundreds of 5-inch by 5-inch pieces, there will be a silent auction, featuring larger original art and/or limited edition prints from Richard Bucurel, John Fire, Nancy Hawkins, Rebecca Hawkins, Guy Shively, and Don Wright. Bidding for the silent auction will be in place until 5:00 p.m. on Sun., Feb. 19.
      All proceeds from the sale and silent auction provide art classes to under-served children, teens, and families at the Rescue Mission, Daybreak, YCS, and others.
      As always, the art show and reception are free and open to the community. Visit ymcaart.blogspot.com to see some of the available art. For more information call the Y at (330) 480-5656 or email sgray@youngstownymca.org
  Boardman Trustees Mull Bids For New Main Fire Station Building  
  January 19, 2017 Edition  
Proposed Boardman Fire Station
      A deadline missed will likely disqualify a bidder for a new Boardman fire station at the corner of Stadium Dr. and Market St., while Trustees review 14 other bids submitted for the project that is expected to get underway sometime this spring.
      Boardman Trustees opened bids for a new main fire station last week, noting a bid of $3.365 million submitted by Greenheart Companies, headed by Brian Angelilli, was filed late and without a bond. The bid turned out to be the low bid, but it faces disqualification as Greenheart gave a bond for the project two hours after the filing deadline.
      The new fire station will encompass approximately 18,000 sq-ft of space, including upwards of 5500 sq-ft for apparatus bays, 6400 sq-ft of living area and 5800 sq-ft of living area.
      It will replace the main fire station currently located at Rt. 224 and Southern Blvd. that was built sometime in the 1930s, and remodeled about 40 years ago. The roof on that building has continually leaked since it was remodeled, and union types of the fire department have frequently complained about mold issues in the building.
      Specifications for the new fire department have been developed by ms consultants, that is now in the process of reviewing the bids, Tom Costello, chairman of Boardman Trustees, said this week.
      Other bids for the project were submitted by the following:
      J. Herbet Construction, $3.393 million; Jack Gibson Construction, $3.444 million; Hudson Construction, $3.47 million; Vendrick, $3.494 million; Brock Builders, $3.574 million; Rycon Construction, $3.601 million; Costal Quality Construction, $3.565 million; Pero Builders, $3.628 million; Milcam Inc., $3.65 million; Caliber Construction, $3.731 million; Adolph Johnson and Sons, $3.74 million; Sona Construction, $3.791 million; Thomas Construction, $3.831 million; and DeSalvo, $3.913 million.
      Trustees have the right to award the bid to the ‘lowest ad best’ bidder.
      Already the proposal has forced certain pressures on the township’s board of trustees. For example, Greenheart’s legal counsel has sent a letter to the township in behalf of its client; and the local trade union has made its voice known, calling for union labor on the project.
      A thorough review of the bids is not expected to be completed by next week when trustees hold their next meeting.
      Among the lowest bidders, all have experience in the construction of public buildings. J. Herbert is the contractor for a new fire station in Springfield Township and also served as contractor for the Brimfield Police Department.
      Gibson has been awarded Air Force conracts and built a fire station in Vienna Township in 1985.
      Hudson was contractor for the construction of a library in Canfield, as well as McDonald High School.
      Vendrick served as contractor for a municipal building in Jackson Township, and built an elementary school for the Springfield Local School District.
     
      PICTURED IS AN ARCHITECT’S FINAL RENDERING of a new main Boardman Fire Station proposed at the intersection of Market St. and Stadium Dr. The rendering was completed by ms consultants. Boardman Trustees accepted bids for the project during a meeting last week.
  Tom Costello Elected Chairman Of Boardman Board Of Trustees  
  January 19, 2017 Edition  
Tom Costello
     Tom Costello was elected chairman of the Boardman Township Board of Trustees during their regularly scheduled meeting last week.
      Costello was elected to the Board of Trustees on Nov. 3, 2009. He had previously served as a Boardman Trustee from Dec., 1999 through 2005.
      He is president of James and Sons Insurance, Inc., a local independent agency located in Boardman. He attended Youngstown State University, is a graduate of Leadership Youngstown, and has served on several boards in the insurance industry throughout his career.
      Costello has been active in the community for many years. His involvement includes Kiwanis, Boardman Civic Association, Hope House Visitation and Steel Valley Homes for Youth.
      He served as co-chairman of the fundraising drive to build the Boardman Performing Arts Center, and was honored by the Boardman Civic Association in 2005 with its Community Service Award.
      Costello and his wife, Janet, have a daughter and son-in-law, Jennifer and Michael Wolfe; a son and daughter-in-law, Adam and Danielle Costello; and one granddaughter, Mallory Wolfe.
      Elected vice-chairman of the Boardman Board of Trustees was Brad Calhoun.
      Calhoun was also elected Trustee on November 3, 2009.
      He and his wife Susan (Schaefer) have two sons, Jayson who earned his bachelor’s degree in business administration with a concentration in human resources from Youngstown State University and Adam is attending YSU studying business/finance.
      Calhoun holds a bachelors degree in secondary education/social studies comprehensive from Youngstown State University and a masters degree in curriculum education from Ashland University.
      He is a teacher at Glenwood Jr. High School, a trustee of the J. Ford Crandall Foundation and has participated in a number of community organizations including Boardman Lions, Boardman Civic Association and Boardman PTA.
  In Honor Of The Fleming Family  
  January 19, 2017 Edition  
     John T. Fleming, his wife, Suzanne, and their sons, John ‘Jack’ and Andrew, were onboard the plane that went down Dec. 30, 2016 over Lake Erie, off the Cleveland shoreline
      Sue and John were high school sweethearts, 1989 graduates of Boardman High School, and 17-year residents of greater Columbus. By all accounts, they were loved and admired by family and friends in their business, community, school, neighborhood, and home town circles.
      Survivors include John’s loving parents, John W. and Judy, sister Liz, brother-in-law Jeff Grdic, nieces Lily and Kate Grdic, as well as Sue’s loving parents, Robert and Carol Armeni, sister Kari (Joe) DePizzo, brother Rob (Alyssa) Armeni, sister Laura (Erik) Luca, nephews Christopher (fiance Kristen) and Patrick DePizzo, and Nicholas, Vincent, and Vito Armeni, and nieces Maria and Maddie Luca, along with many, many friends.
      John was born Dec. 30, 1970, in Youngstown. He was a 1993 magna cum laude graduate of Wake Forest University, a CPA, and a member of Sigma Phi Epsilon fraternity.
      In his nearly 30-year career with Superior Beverage Group and the beverage distribution industry, John Fleming rose to the highest levels of leadership, becoming president and chief executive officer.
      Likewise, in his community, he was an active leader and volunteer in many charitable endeavors. Above all, he was a family man.
      Sue was born Sept. 22, 1970, in Youngstown. She graduated from Youngstown State University with a bachelor’s degree in social work. She was a passionate advocate and supporter of JDRF, the leading funder of type 1 diabetes research.
      While active on many fronts, Sue was devoted primarily to raising her two boys. Her pride and joy was her role as wife, mother, and daughter.
      Jack was born June 20, 2001, in Columbus. A sophomore at Olentangy Liberty High School, he excelled in the classroom as a 4.0 honor student and was extremely popular among his peers. He enjoyed golf, basketball, snow skiing and especially playing touch football with his friends. He loved Ohio sports---the Browns, Indians, Cavaliers and Buckeyes, attending all Ohio State home football games.
      Jack was an outstanding young man who dedicated his life to helping his brother. He was Andrew’s eyes, his constant companion, and best-ever big brother. Andrew was born June 15, 2002, in Columbus. He attended Ohio State School for the Blind in Columbus, where he participated on the track and swim teams. He also enjoyed playing baseball in the Miracle Baseball League and competing in Special Olympics. He joined in the Juvenile Diabetes walk alongside all those there to support him. He too was an avid sports fan, and his favorite teams were the Pittsburgh Steelers and Cleveland Cavaliers. Always the jokester, he was known for his wonderful sense of humor. His faithful service dog, Sandy, was always at his side.
      Memorial contributions may be made to Mid-Ohio JDRF, 100 Old Wilson Bridge Road, Suite 118, Worthington, Ohio 43085, or to the American Red Cross Cleveland Chapter, 3747 Euclid Ave., Cleveland, Oh. 44115, or to a charity of choice.
      Friends of the family ask that blue ribbons be tied around trees in residential areas of Boardman Township, in honor of the Fleming family.
  JACKED +HEALTH ....  
  Goal Setting For The New Year:   January 19, 2017 Edition  
     by Jack Wilkins, Jacked +Health
      Happy 2017 everyone. It’s hard to believe that another year has passed, isn’t it? Every new year can be a new beginning and a fresh start.
      With the beginning of a new year, comes the planning and setting of new goals and resolutions that everyone will be looking to accomplish. So many times though, we end up falling short. We end up giving up and barely accomplishing anything towards the goal or resolution we set. We then forget about it and don’t think about it again until the next year. It’s not always easy to stay on track, but here are a few pointers and tips that can help keep things in line for you.
      One of the biggest problems with New Year’s resolutions is the size of the resolution or goal being set. So often we set a very large goal and plan on accomplishing it in a very little amount of time, when in reality it’s unreal. When we set goals we have to set them accordingly. It’s much better and goals are much more attainable if we set them according to cycles, specifically microcycles and macrocycles. Macrocycles are for the big goals and microcycles are for smaller goals to accomplish in order to get to the big goal.
      For example, if you want to lose 120 pounds, you can’t just say you will do it in 3 months, and then when it doesn’t happen give up. Give yourself a year. Breaking that down would have you losing 10 pounds a month. Breaking it down even further would have you losing 2-3 pounds a week. That looks and will feel much more attainable, and will have a much higher chance of being accomplished. No matter what, every goal is going to take work and time. You have to have goals to advance, and they have to require work in order to help us attain self-worth and achievement to keep moving on to the next level.
      Another reason that many times we fall short or don’t succeed is because we don’t have a plan. We set a goal but we have no means of getting there. I’ll stick with weight loss for an example. If we set a goal to lose 50 pounds, we don’t set a goal date and we don’t come up with a plan. We might just go to the gym and start working out as hard as we can and do everything without any rhyme or reason.
      Planning is a huge part of goal success. In order to lose 50 pounds, we have to figure out what we are going to do. How are we going to eat? How are we going to pace our workouts so that we aren’t absolutely miserable? Are we going to get enough sleep? When will we workout? For how long? How many days a week. We need to figure all of these things out because they are part of the plan we will need in order to achieve success. Planning helps to keep us organized, focused, and on track. It is a huge part of your path to succeeding.
      One more important thing to reaching your goals is consistency and accountability. There is no easy trick to consistency and accountability though. They are up to you and require you keeping yourself going. There will be days where you don’t want to stay on top of things, and days you feel like it would be easier to quit. But no matter what those days are going to pass and you will be at the next good day again where you will be motivated. Where you know you are doing what you need to be doing and accomplishing everything you need to get done. Just imagine if on the days you feel like quitting would it actually be worth it compared to the days when you’re motivated and excited to accomplish more?
      So as your making your new year goals, or if you already have them, try using and implanting these tips to help you succeed.
      Remember to get better little by little everyday, even if it’s just one percent. Because after so many days, that little one percent will be a very large percent, and that is when it will all be worth it.
     
  On The Bright Side......  
  Good & Evil:   January 19, 2017 Edition  
     By Lisa K. Robinson
      During a turbulent flight between Dallas and Pittsburgh, I pondered the leading news stories in USA Today and clutched my husband’s hand just a little harder. An Iraq war veteran went off the rails and killed 5 people in an airport and wounded another 8. A mother allowed her boyfriend to rape and murder her adopted daughter. My mind and heart hurt. I have been a believer most of my adult life, and yet, when I see senseless violence and suffering, I confess to having doubts. Why doesn’t God stop this stuff in its tracks? If the plane went down, would my questions be answered?
      Years ago, I read The Case for Faith by Lee Strobel. Honestly, the book was so heavy and my life was so full that I didn’t finish it. Sorting through a mass of books at Ollie’s, I found it again for just $4. I would try to get through it once again, although my life has not emptied out very much since it was first published 17 years ago. Strobel described an interview he had with Charles Templeton, who died just months after the interview at the age of 84 of Alzheimer’s.
      In the late 40s and early 50s, Charles Templeton ministered all over the country with evangelist Billy Graham. Templeton and Graham were best friends and partners, and thousands were brought to faith through their work. Templeton was an intellectual with a quick, inquisitive, logical mind. His most pressing unanswered question: How a loving God could permit evil and suffering in this world?
      Doubts plagued Billy Graham too. Could he trust Scripture as being inspired by God Himself? If he couldn’t trust the Bible, how could he go on? Templeton urged Graham that modern people wisely didn’t believe everything they read in the Bible. It was intellectual suicide. Faith and intellect could not coexist in the same person.
      Graham took his Bible and went for an evening walk in the San Bernadino Mountains right before his Los Angeles crusade. Graham confessed in prayer that he could not answer the tough questions Templeton posed. Something supernatural stirred in Graham. He came to the realization that he didn’t have to have all the answers to all the questions. The human mind is finite, and even his best friend, Charles Templeton’s, brilliant, probing mind was finite. But God is infinite. The only thing Graham needed was faith that God was real. Faith bridges the finite to the infinite.
      Strobel wrote that this was a pivotal moment for Graham and a disappointing one for Templeton. Templeton, fifty years later, had never accused Graham of being a fraud. In fact, although the two had lost contact for years, Templeton had nothing but respect and affection for Graham as a man of honesty and integrity. The two men simply took divergent paths in answering the same question. Graham went on to have an international ministry and had the opportunity to discuss issues of faith with every sitting president from Harry Truman to Barack Obama. Templeton taught and went on to write several books on atheism, his last and most recognized, Farewell to God: My Reasons for Rejecting the Christian Faith.
      Strobel asked Templeton what pushed him away from his faith. Templeton described a picture on the cover of Life magazine depicting a grief stricken African mother holding her dead infant and looking up to the sky. North Africa had endured a severe and prolonged drought. He asked how a loving God could allow this terrible suffering when all that woman and baby needed was rain. Who controls the rain? God does, but He didn’t send it. Templeton spent his entire life thinking about why God didn’t send the rain.
      Strobel pressed Templeton, whose Alzheimer’s was strangely at bay for the majority of the interview. Templeton praised Jesus’ simplicity but described him as a moral genius:
      “His ethical sense was unique. He was the intrinsically wisest person that I’ve ever encountered in my life or in my readings. His commitment was total and led to his own death, much to the detriment of the world. What could one say about him except that this was a form of greatness?”
      Templeton went onto say that Jesus was the most important thing in his life and that he adored Him. Later in the interview, Templeton confessed that he missed Jesus. A thin, frail 83 year man, padding around in corduroy slippers in his Toronto penthouse and dying of Alzheimer’s, cried real tears over the loss of his best friend, Jesus.
      There is only one conclusion to Charles Templeton’s question that makes any sense at all but doesn’t address all the rabbit trail questions Billy Graham couldn’t answer. Some things can only be described in relationship to other things. For example, darkness is an absence of light. Evil is simply an absence of God. The Apostle Paul writes in 1 John 1:5: “This is the message we heard from Jesus and now declare to you: God is light, and there is no darkness in him at all.”
      When I was a little girl, I asked my dad the Charles Templeton question. My dad, one of the smartest people I know or know of, advised me to do my part to do good and be kind, even in the smallest of ways. He told me my little light would chase away just a little bit of the world’s darkness.
      This little light of mine, I’m gonna let it shine.
  Dog’s ‘Foster Parent’ Has Concerns With Animal Charity  
  December 15, 2016 Edition  
     “If I made a mistake,
      It wasn’t with Bubbles”
     
      EDITOR:
      I am writing this letter to bring to light my situation as the first foster parent of a dog named Bubbles, who was found this summer on Chicago Ave. in Youngstown and turned over to Animal Charity, 4142 Market St. in Boardman.
      Around early August I began fostering Bubbles and continued for almost two months, during which time it became my intention to adopt him.
      Lisa Hill, the executive director of Animal Charity, picked Bubbles up on Fri., Oct. 1 for a fundraiser and picked him up again on Sun., Oct. 3 to attend another fundraiser at the October Festival in Boardman.
      After the Oktoberfest, Lisa told me they (Animal Charity) wanted to keep Bubbles overnight to x-ray his lungs. She called the next day (Mon., Oct. 4, and told me that Bubbles’ x-ray showed that his lungs were cloudy so they needed to keep him. I asked if I could visit with him, all the while assuming that he was coming back to me.
      Lisa Hill said ‘yes’ and I saw Bubbles almost every day.
      Over two weeks later, Lisa called me on Mon., Oct. 17 and asked if I could come in at 6:00 p.m. for an update on Bubbles’ health. A friend went with me.
      When we arrived Lisa was in her office. Mary Louk (president of the board of Animal Charity) came in and closed the door.
      Lisa Houk asked if I knew why they “took Bubbles” from me. I said I didn’t realize he had been “taken from me” and assumed he was coming back to me. She said, “no” and proceeded to direct a set of accusations at me in an unfriendly and aggressive way.
      For about an hour and a half, Hill, Mary Louk, my friend and I discussed these accusations. I clearly stated that I wanted to continue to foster Bubbles and was planning on adopting him. They refused, saying that Bubbles was going to a new foster home the next day and if I wanted to adopt Bubbles, I could “fill out an application the same as any other person would.”
      I stated several times that I felt I deserved a direct answer to a direct question and they said that I was not permitted to adopt Bubbles. I walked out of their door, thinking to myself I would never come back.
      Ms. Louk repeated back to me each time that she couldn’t answer my questions about adoption directly, and her best advice was that I should “turn around and walk out the door.”
      I wasn’t permitted to see Bubbles that day. I was not permitted to know where Bubbles was going and I wasn’t permitted to adopt him. In other words, I was never to see Bubbles again. This is extremely harsh treatment and I intend to defend my position on each accusation.
      During my second week with Bubbles I received a phone call from a ‘generous local resident’ regarding Bubbles. He called to ask me how Bubbles was doing, and also, to tell me that he was paying for Bubbles’ heartworm treatments and that he and his girlfriend wanted very much to adopt him. He told me that he heard I was getting attached to Bubbles and wanted me to know that there would be “no hard feelings on his part if I decided to keep the dog, but he really wanted this dog.” I thanked him and told him that he and his girlfriend were welcome to visit Bubbles at my home.
      Later that same week, when Lisa Hill was leaving my house, I told her about my conversation with this ‘generous local resident.’ She became visibly upset and asked how he got my number. I told her I wasn’t sure but maybe someone at the store where he and I shopped had given it to him. She stated emphatically that the ‘resident’ was not to be on my property to see Bubbles, unless either she or Tommy Schneeman (a humane officer) was present. I was surprised at her reaction, but agreed.
      Lisa called a few days later and asked if they could pick Bubbles up to take him to visit this local benefactor and see what their home looked like. My concern was that with the 17 other dogs that live with him and his girlfriend, Bubbles wouldn’t get enough attention.
      Lisa reported the place was “stellar” and that I and the other people should stop worrying about this issue. This took place before I had decided that I wanted to adopt Bubbles.
      As the weeks passed I stayed in touch with Lisa and kept her appraised of everything Bubbles and I had been doing. I started to make Bubbles’ food (a sweet potato, pumpkin puree and vegetable casserole with raw organic organ meats) and he was thriving and gaining weight. His coat was shining, he stopped shedding and he was getting stronger and healthier every day. I told her where I took him and what we did around the house. During this time, Lisa and Tommy stopped to pick him up for the occasional fundraiser and I brought him to the [Animal Charity]shelter for visits. One Sunday when he stepped on a bee I called Lisa and she came over to make sure he was okay. I made it clear that I am comfortable with cat and horse care since I’ve had cats and do have a horse, but this was my first dog. Comments kept coming back in person and on Facebook that Bubbles was looking good and thriving. Everything Bubbles and I did was in the public domain and I received nothing but positive feedback.
      Bubbles used to like to ride in the hatchback of my Mini Cooper so I offered to drive Lisa Hill to Akron for Bubbles’ vet exam. He had finished his prednisone three weeks prior to this exam and his doxy two weeks prior to this exam. The vet was extremely pleased with him and said that all of his symptoms had abated and he was ready to begin his heartworm shots. I do not have a copy of this report. I assumed he would start his shots the next week, but Mary made the appointment four weeks out (Oct. 17). So now it was going to be six weeks from the end of his heartworm protocol before he started his shots.
      In the meantime and with Animal Charity’s (AC) permission I had taken Bubbles to see my vet. In addition, I contacted a well respected local dog trainer and made an appointment for a private lesson. She asked if Bubbles could go into service and I told her that he belonged to AC.
      The trainer texted Mary [Louk], who said “foster [parent]” has first pick and Lisa has second pick and a “generous local benefactor” has third pick. I saw the texts.
      The trainer thought it would be a good idea to put Bubbles in basic obedience school and I did too. I made certain Mary knew he had to start his heartworm shots on Oct. 17, and asked if she would speak to my vet to make sure this would be okay. In addition, I called my vet’s office and reiterated my concern regarding Bubbles heartworm. He returned my call and told me that school was fine until Bubbles started his shots. He stated that he sees lots of heartworm cases and many were much worse than Bubbles. He listed four or five of the symptoms which Bubbles did not have and said that the medicines for heartworm have changed in the last two years and added that dogs were not generally getting as sick.
      In the meantime, Lisa came to drop off two t-shirts that my friends had bought. I asked if she could visit with Bubbles since he liked her so much. She did and it was during that visit I told her we were starting school on Tuesday. Lisa told me Mary (the executive director of the board) was adamant that Bubbles not start school. So I called the trainer and told her that we could not attend and explained why. The trainer said Lisa must not have remembered correctly because she had already spoken with Mary about Bubbles attending school and Mary was “fine with it.” I asked if she was certain and when she said yes I said, “I’ll be there.”
      School was on Tues. Sept. 20, and Lisa (the Animal Charity executive director) said that she and Tommy (the humane agent) wanted to borrow Bubbles on Friday and Sunday of the same week for fundraisers (Displaying the dog to the public). So on Friday she and Tommy picked Bubbles up and on Saturday I took him to Pet Supplies Plus for a Paw Platoon fundraiser. Paul and Jen Poulus are the founders of the Paw Platoon. They were both there and Tommy Schneeman stopped. I brought Bubbles and we had a great time.
      The next day (Sunday) Lisa and Tommy came to get Bubbles for the Octoberfestival in Boardman. They told me they wanted to keep him overnight for an x-ray. On Monday Lisa called to tell me that Bubbles’ lungs were cloudy and they wanted to keep him at the shelter. I asked if she wanted the food that I had been making for him. She said yes and picked it up.
      I was visiting Bubbles most days at the shelter. Then on Mon., Oct. 17, Lisa called at around 3:00 p.m. and asked if I could come to the shelter so she could update me on Bubbles’ health. I agreed. My friend and I arrived to find Lisa at her desk. Lisa to wait and shortly after Mary Louk came into the room. She shut the door and launched into an accusation about how I had hurt Bubbles.
      The first accusation came as the obedience school issue. After insisting several times that I had not knowingly gone against their wishes and demanding that she call this trainer on the phone, Mary (the president of the AC board) stated that she had already spoken with the trainer and she had admitted to making a mistake and apologized to her. Mary agreed to take that charge off the table.
      The second accusation came as a result of the Sat., Oct. 1 Paw Platoon fundraiser at the Boardman Plaza. Mary accused me of letting Bubbles out of my car and letting him run half-way across the parking lot without a leash. I denied that charge and told Mary what I did was back my car right up to the store’s door and when I opened the hatchback Bubbles jumped-out before I had the leash clipped on him. That was true.
      Then Mary vehemently told me that Jen Poulos told her that she ‘saw’ me let Bubbles run half way across the parking lot without a leash. I stated ‘that’ was not true and reiterated what I did.
      It seems a simple thing to say to me, “Look, we heard this dog was off leash in public. Don’t ever do that again.” I sincerely believed that Bubbles would never run off because he always stuck so close to me. It was the trainer who explained why that was not good thinking concerning dogs. You try to educate the rest of the world, why not me? I will freely admit anything I did wrong but I am not willing to accept random accusations.
      Returning to the local benefactor, I had been uneasy with the fact that Bubbles was being kept in a crate or in Lisa’s office and appeared not to be thriving. I called the benefactor on Wed., Oct. 12 and asked if he knew that Lisa and Mary were keeping Bubbles at the shelter? He sounded surprised and said he thought Bubbles was still with me. I told him what Lisa had said regarding Bubbles’ lungs and that I couldn’t understand why Bubbles wasn’t back with me. His response was that Lisa and Tommy called and asked if they could see Bubbles before the dog started his heartworm treatments on Mon., Oct. 17. He said yes to Lisa and told me he planned on asking why Bubbles was not with me.
      The benefactor also stated that Lisa told him that he could have Bubbles sometime late December, or early January.
      I asked if he knew of any reason why AC would have taken Bubbles from me and he told me that they had asked for a donation, and he agreed to give them $1,000/month for 12 months, so that Tommy (the humane agent) could have a full-time job as humane officer, along with paying for Bubbles heartworm expenses. He apologized and said he hadn’t meant to hurt me or anyone in any way. He offered to call when Lisa and Tommy and tell me what they said regarding all of this.
      The benefactor called around 8:00 p.m. and said that Lisa told him I was taking Bubbles out in public too much and Bubbles might be around too many people and maybe some dogs. My question in response to that statement is to ask why no one came to me and said, “You need to keep Bubbles at home more.” That would have been a very simple solution. Apparently when they took Bubbles out in public it was different than when I did the same thing.
      If I made a mistake, it wasn’t with Bubbles. It was trusting Lisa Hill and Tommy Schneeman to be honorable with their word.
      Thank you for your time and consideration on this matter.
     
      Sincerely,
      Angelina Tiberio
      Southern Blvd.
      Boardman, Ohio
  LEGAL NOTICE  
  November 3, 2016 Edition  
     Boardman Township
      Civil Service Commission
      Full-Time Entry Level Police Officer,
      Boardman, OH $35,221.00 Annual Salary
      The complete job announcement and application with available bonus points can be viewed on the Boardman Township website: www.boardmantwp.com .
      Applications will be available electronically via the Boardman Township Website www.boardmantwp.com or by email request to boardmancivilservice@gmail.com, from November 21, 2016 through December 16, 2016. Office hours: by appointment only, please call (330)726-4177 x 61701 during normal business hours or (330)540-8204 after 4pm.
      Completed applications will be accepted beginning December 5, 2016 from 9-12pm and 2-5pm Monday - Friday until December 16, 2016, except weekends & holidays. The Boardman Civil Service Office is located at the Boardman Township Fire Department, 136 Boardman-Poland Rd, Boardman, Ohio. If you encounter an unforeseeable scheduling conflict, please contact (330) 540-8204 for further assistance.
      Applicants must obtain a Certificate of Completion, at the applicant’s expense, for physical agility from Cuyahoga Community College to participate in the written examination. Certifications dated within two (2) years of the exam date will be accepted. Test dates are November 13, 2016 or December 11, 2016.
      The written examination will be administered on December 21, 2016 in the library of the Boardman Senior High School located at 7777 Glenwood Avenue, Boardman, Ohio.
  LEGAL NOTICE  
  November 3, 2016 Edition  
     NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING
      The Boardman Township Board of Appeals shall hold a Public Hearing on Tuesday, November 15, 2016 at 7:00 PM at the Boardman Township Government Center, 8299 Market Street, Boardman Township, Ohio 44512, for consideration of the following cases:
      APPEAL CASE AC-2016-30
      Lori Bowser, Account Executive Fast Signs, agent of Beeghly Oaks Realty LLC, 180 Sylvan, Englewood Cliffs, New Jersey 07632, requests a variance for the terms of the Boardman Township Zoning Resolution, effective May 29, 2012, Article XII, Exceptions and Special Provisions, Section H. Signs and Billboards, Letter D, Number 1, in order to construct a sign seeking relief from the limitation of one sign per parcel at 6505 Market Street, Youngstown, Ohio 44512. The property is further known as Lot 2, IRR Beeghly Medical Center, Plat Number 1, Parcel Number 29-004-0-170.00-0. Said property is zoned Article X, Commercial Districts, in Boardman Township, Mahoning County, State of Ohio.
      APPEAL CASE AC-2016-31
      Ronald M. Yarab, Jr. MD, CEO-COO All Points Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation, agent of Girls Property Group LLC, 822 E. Western Reserve Road, Poland, Ohio 44514, requests a variance for the terms of the Boardman Township Zoning Resolution, effective May 29, 2012, Article XII, Exceptions and Special Provisions, Section H. Signs and Billboards, Letter D, Number 9, in order to construct a sign on E. Western Reserve Road seeking relief from the limitation of one sign on each street frontage at an entrance on a corner lot. The property is further known as BLDG 822, Unit 1, Southwestern Run Professional Park Condo 11th Amendment, Parcel Number 29-048-0-029.01-0. Said property is zoned Article X, Commercial Districts, in Boardman Township, Mahoning County, State of Ohio.
      Text and maps of the request may be viewed at the Boardman Township Zoning Office, 8299 Market Street, Boardman, Ohio 44512 Monday through Friday, between the hours of 8:00 AM and 4:00 PM, until time of hearing.
      Atty. John F. Shultz, Chairman
      Boardman Township Board of Appeals
      Krista D. Beniston, AICP
      Director of Zoning and Development
  Fundraiser Set Nov. 10 To Aid Youngster Who Was Diagnosed With Leukemia  
  November 3, 2016 Edition  
     Market Street Elementary School PTA and Kellen’s Army of Students will hold a Spaghetti Dinner Carry-Out Fundraiser on Thurs., Nov. 10 at the Boardman High School cafeteria, from 5:00 p.m. to 7:30 p.m. People are encouraged to pre-order, and register a pick-up time on the half hour.
      Market Street third grader Kellen Grace was recently diagnosed with leukemia, and his Market Street family has stepped up to try to help his family with his medical costs. Organizers are encouraging people to enjoy the dinner and bring a get well card or a funny picture for Kellen. There will be a basket raffle, and t-shirts will also be sold at the event, with proceeds going to the Kellen Grace Benefit Fund.
      Pre-orders are encouraged and can be made by calling Tanna Sebrell at 330-277-1004.
  Magic Of The Angels Christmas Nov. 19 At Mr. Anthony’s  
  November 3, 2016 Edition  
     Magic of the Angels Christmas 30th annual Christmas event, Silver & Gold Jubilee, will be held at 6:00 p.m. on Sat., Nov. 19 at Mr. Anthony’s famous banquet hall, 7440 South Ave..
      Master of ceremonies is Stan Boney. Chairing this year’s celebration is Geri Kosar and Joan Zarlenga.
      Shelly LaBerto serves as president of the Angels.
      A gourmet dinner will be served, followed by dancing to the music of the Sensations. The evening will include live and silent auctions of decorated trees, designer pieces, gift baskets, collector’s items and more.
      A special live auction items include a Peek’n Peak Resort golf getaway, dinner with Ellen and Jim Tressel at their home, a year of skating at the Skate Zone Fun Center and a fully decorated Christmas tree.
      Angel ornaments will be sold to win a chance for an elegant piece of jewelry from Komara Jewelers.
      Grand raffle tickets will be sold for a $1,500 holiday shopping spree compliments of Eastwood Mall Complex and other wonderful items. Tickets cost six for $5, or $1 each and can be purchased by calling 330-599-5568 or from members of the Angels. The winner does not need to be present to win.
      The celebration will benefit Easter Seals and will feature the Building Tomorrows program of intense therapy for children with disabilities.
      Tickets for the event cost $75/person or for patrons $100. Call 330-599-5500 for tickets or to make a donation.
      During the evening, guests have an opportunity to buy ornaments towards the Children’s Magical Tree which decorates the Center for the Christmas season.
      Corporate sponsors include:
       •Golden Santas: Phyllis and Vincent Bacon, and Joan and Lou Zarlenga.
       •Silver Santas: Boardman Rotary, Candy and Eddie DeBartolo, Carolynn and George Mitchell ,and Susan and Timothy Rupert
       •Bronze Santas: Emily and William DeToro, Kathy and Ron Carroll, Jane J. and Tom Evans, Jones Wealth Management, Geri and Bernie Kosar, Shelly LaBerto, Carol and Doug Lumsden, Joe Mineo Creative Design, Sally and Bill Reedy,
      Stephen Solic, III Auctioneer, The Cafaro Foundation and Frank C. and Norma J. Watson Family Foundation.
       •Pewter Santas: Chick-fil-A of Tiffany Square Plaza, Edison Lighting, John MacIntosh Jr., Lynn and Bob Sahli, Something New, Denise and John York and V & V Appliance Parts Inc.
      The Angels upcoming event is the Holiday Brunch and Sweet Shoppe will be held Dec. 7 at Mr. Anthony’s.
      All proceeds benefit Easter Seals of Mahoning, Trumbull and Columbiana Counties.
  LEGAL NOTICE  
  October 27, 2016 Edition  
     Boardman Township
      Civil Service Commission
      Full-Time Entry Level Police Officer,
      Boardman, OH $35,221.00 Annual Salary
      The complete job announcement and application with available bonus points can be viewed on the Boardman Township website: www.boardmantwp.com .
      Applications will be available electronically via the Boardman Township Website www.boardmantwp.com or by email request to boardmancivilservice@gmail.com, from November 21, 2016 through December 16, 2016. Office hours: by appointment only, please call (330)726-4177 x 61701 during normal business hours or (330)540-8204 after 4pm.
      Completed applications will be accepted beginning December 5, 2016 from 9-12pm and 2-5pm Monday - Friday until December 16, 2016, except weekends & holidays. The Boardman Civil Service Office is located at the Boardman Township Fire Department, 136 Boardman-Poland Rd, Boardman, Ohio. If you encounter an unforeseeable scheduling conflict, please contact (330) 540-8204 for further assistance.
      Applicants must obtain a Certificate of Completion, at the applicant’s expense, for physical agility from Cuyahoga Community College to participate in the written examination. Certifications dated within two (2) years of the exam date will be accepted. Test dates are November 13, 2016 or December 11, 2016.
      The written examination will be administered on December 21, 2016 in the library of the Boardman Senior High School located at 7777 Glenwood Avenue, Boardman, Ohio.
  Supplemental Contracts Totaling $49,120 Awarded By School Board  
  October 27, 2016 Edition  
     Meeting last week, the Boardman Board of Education acted upon a variety of personnel issues, including supplemental contracts.
      The contracts, totaling $49,120, were issued to the following:
       •Amanda Nero, high school art club advisor, $985;
       •Alyssa Birch and Katie Burnside, high school photo arts club advisors, $657 each;
       •Elizabeth Holter, Center Intermediate mentor, $657;
       •Dylan Bosela, assistant high school basketball coach, $2300; and high school open gym supervisor, $1643;
       •Mark Calautti, high school assistant basketball coach, $4600;
       •Crysti DeNiro, high school wrestlette advisor, $985;
       •David Gilmartin, high school assistant boys basketball coach, $2300;
       •Matt Inghram, Glenwood assistant wrestling coach, $1643;
       •Dom Mancini, high school head wrestling coach, $5914;
       •Frank Mancini, high school assistant wrestling coach, $3286;
       •Ron Navarra, high school assistant swimming/diving coach, $1643;
       •Terry O’Halloran, high school head swimming coach, $5914;
       •Kevin Powell, Glenwood eighth grade head wrestling coach, $3286;
       •Don Riccitelli, high school open gym supervisor, $821;
       •Peter Ryan, Glenwood seventh grade head wrestling coach, $3286;
       •Lindsey Tokarsky, Glenwood seventh grade basketball coach, $3943;
       •Brent Villella, high school assistant boys basketball coach, $4600.
      Approved as volunteer coaches were Robert Foster, high school assistant wrestling coach; John Lucansky, high school bowling coach; and Jack Raver, high school assistant wrestling coach.
      Resignations from supplemental contacts were accepted from Dan Kibby, Glenwood eighth grade boys basketball coach; Scott Knox, Glenwood eighth grade girls basketball coach; Scott Lenhart, Glenwood eighth grade boys basketball coach; and Erin Navarro, Glenwood publication advisor.
      First year parental leaves of absence were granted to Alyssa Birch, high school art teacher; April Eckert, Center social studies teacher; and Tracy Morton, district speech pathologist.
      Susan Fellows was transferred as a cafeteria server at Glenwood Jr. High School to a server at West Blvd. Elementary School.
      Melissa D’Altorio was granted a one year limited contract as a cafeteria server at Boardman High School, and Beth Habeger was granted a limited one year contract as a cafeteria server at Glenwood Jr. High School.
      The school board approved the issuance of a business credit card, not to exceed $1000, for Robert Gresko, store room manager.
      Acting upon the recommendation of Treasurer L. Greg Slemons, the board approved an increase in the permanent improvement fund from $299,000 to $625,000.
      “The increase of $326,000 will fund future permanent improvement projects, including security and technology improvements district wide,” Slemons said.
      Meting in September, the local school board acted on several supplemental contracts, including the following:
       •Amy Amendol, Center science instruction coordinator, $4600;
       •Madeline Amero, Gina Crillet, Jamie Dagget, Holly Gozur, Julie Kamenitsa, Scott Lenhart, Janie Marinucci, Patricia Passarelli, Abigail Reynolds, Danielle Siembida, Lori Szoke and Holly Watts, mentors, $657; and Erin Navarro, mentor, $1314;
       •Danielle Bletso, high school assistant volleyball coach, $1643;
       •Kyle O’Donnell, high school band/orchestra assistant, $1314;
       •William Sikora, Glenwood assistant football coach, $2464.
      Also in September, the school board awarded stipends to several employees, including:
       Jeffrey Hammerton, Robinwood Lane television program, $1600;
       •Joyce Mistovich, high school television station production, $5500;
       •Al Cervello, Randy Ebie, Dave Korbau, Randy Nord, Jerry Turillo and Holly Watts, $200 each for services provided as members of the Evaluation Review Committee (ERC) for the 2015-16 school years;
       •Jared Cardillo, Ebie, Michael Gerthung, Stephanie Racz, Don Robinson and Jerry Turillo, $750 each as members of the 2016-17 Professional Development Committee; and
       •Amy Carkido, $600, as a member of the Professional Development Committee.
  $45 Million Annual Budget Will Not Support Inflationary Growth  
  Boardman Local School District Five-Year Forecast:   October 27, 2016 Edition  
     Members of the Boardman Board of Education received a five-year forecast financial report from the system’s Treasurer. L. Greg Slemons when the board met last week on Thurs., Oct. 20.
      The forecast is required by law to be issued twice a year, and notes the Boardman Local Schools approximate $45 million yearly budget “cannot and will not support the natural increase in expenditures due to the natural inflationary growth over the next five years.”
      About 53 per cent, or $26.7 million, of the Boardman Local School annual revenue is generated by property taxes, and according to the five-year- forecast will not increase substantially “as a result of a slow recovery in both the domestic economy, as well as the local real estate market.”
      In addition, according to the forecast, Board of Revision hearings held by the county auditor’s office (where property owners contest taxation rates) “are projected to be detrimental...with decisions in values unfavorable to the school district.”
      State subsidies, according to the five-year forecast, will increase, and in 2017 are expected to yield an additional half-million dollars to the Boardman Local School budget.
      Salaries and benefits total slightly more than 72 per cent of total expenditures in the Boardman Local School District, according to the forecast.
      The forecast says that “trends in hospitalization insurance suggest sustained increases in insurance premiums.” Insurance premiums for medical and RX increased by seven per cent in 2015-16, the forecast says, adding that “Negotiated agreements with certified and classified unions require all employees contribute 10 per cent towards the premiums.”
  For Boardman Methodist Church Organist Sean Baran Music Is Truly An Art Form  
  October 13, 2016 Edition  
     Walk into Boardman United Methodist Church, 6809 Market St., on just about any Sunday morning and organ music is echoing throughout the sanctuary.
      At the keyboard will be 27-year-old Sean Baran, of Chester Dr., Boardman, who knew at the age of 5-years-old, that he wanted to play the piano.
      He began to pursue his dream at the age of 11, when he was able to start taking piano lessons from Dorothy Schwers, who had a lifelong impact on Sean.
      “She inspired me to play and to love music, showing me that music expresses the beauty of the world,” Baran recalls.
      He loves to perform. He loves to share music with people. He says “it’s like opening a diary, and spilling out your thoughts.”
      A valedictorian at Austintown Fitch High School in 2007, Baran went on to become a summa cum laude from Youngstown State University’s Dana School of Music, earning bachelor and master’s degrees in music performance. He was a graduate teaching assistant while attending YSU, and currently teaches keyboard musicianship, and music theory courses at the university.
      In 2010, Baran won the Dana Young Artist Contest, which led to a performance of the Tchaikovsky Piano Concerto with the Dana Orchestra.
      After earning his master’s degree in 2014, Baran was accepted to participate in the Zodiac Music Academy and Festival in southern France.
      For the past seven years, he has performed an annual May concert for the Youngstown Area Federation of Women’s Cubs, Inc.
      Catherine Campana, President of YAFWC, says the group looks so forward to his recital every year.
      Teaching is Baran’s real passion.
      “To be able to inspire students to see music as an art form, like a painting, music is an expression of oneself,” says Baran.
      He started teaching piano lessons in 2008. He has a private piano studio and says he is like a traveling teacher, also instructing YSU students, cultivating in them the desire to someday teach. His students frequently receive the highest ratings at local adjudicated events and can be heard throughout the area in recitals and in master classes.
      Baran is currently president of the Young Music Teachers Association. On the last Sunday of each month his students perform recitals at the Butler North at 2:30 p.m. The recitals are open to the public. He is also a member of the American Guild of Organists that embraces all who enjoy and promote worship through music and song.
      In July, Youngstown State University’s Dana School of Music and Valley Christian School’s Lewis Center joined with Baran, and organized a Summer Piano Camp where eight, third to eighth graders, participated with varying levels of piano and music knowledge, ending the camp with a recital.
      To help students get over the fear of performing, and to help inspire them to learn and enjoy music, Baran created The Ribbon Festival that will be held Nov. 5 at Bliss Hall.
      Many of us have dreams and goals we wish to achieve, and Sean Baran is living his dream. He loves what he does, from performing piano recitals, playing the 70-year-old pipe organ at Boardman United Methodist Church, to teaching youth to play and enjoy music, or preparing college students to teach music with a passion.
      Music is an expression of oneself, an art form, that Baran will continue to perform and teach to the world around him.
      WALK INTO THE SANCTUARY OF Boardman United Methodist Church on just about any Sunday morning and hear the music echoing throughout the sanctuary performed by Sean Baran (pictured).
  As The Leaves Begin To Fall, Pick-Up Program Opens Oct. 24  
  October 13, 2016 Edition  
     As the leaves start to fall, the Boardman Township Road Department gears up for the fall leaf pick-up program. The program was originally funded by the Mahoning County Green Team, but funding was cut in 2013. Township Trustees have continued to provide this service at no cost to township residents.
      Any questions in regards to this program, call the Boardman Road Department at 330-726-4190.
      The 2016 Boardman Township Road Department Leaf Pick-Up Program will run from Mon., Oct. 24 thru Fri., Nov. 20.
      Leaves must be placed in brown paper leaf gags and placed by the curb on the appropriate date for your street. Brown paper leaf bags can be purchased at local hardware stores.
      Due to the Veteran’s Day holiday, no leaves will be picked-up on Fri., Nov. 11. The leaf pick-up program will resume on Mon., Nov. 14.
      Annually, the Boardman Road Department collects upwards of 35,000 bags of leaves along township roadways.
      The Leaf Pick-Up program’s daily pick-up schedule is listed in this week's edition of the Boardman News.
  Pumpkin Carve-Out, Haunted Wagon Rides Among Halloween Events At Boardman Park  
  October 13, 2016 Edition  
     Boardman Township Trustees Larry Moliterno, Brad Calhoun and Thomas Costello have declared official Halloween trick-or-treat hours in the township for Mon., Oct. 31, from 5:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m.
      As well, there are a variety of events set at Boardman Park.
      The Pumpkin Carve-Out Contest offers a chance to create Spooktacular jack-o-lanterns! Bring the family, friends, carving tools and newspapers for a fun time at Boardman Park. There will be a small fee for the pumpkins. Prizes will be awarded in different age categories, from children to adults.
      The Pumpkin Carve-Out Contest runs Fri., Oct. 14, from 6:00 to 9:00 p.m., Sat., Oct. 15, from noon to 9:00 p.m. and Sun. , Oct. 16, from noon to 5:00 p.m.
      On Sun., Oct. 16, from 1:00 p.m. to 3:00 p.m., Boardman Park will hold for Boo Thru The Woods. It’s a twist on trick or treating. Receive treats from area businesses while on a walk along the park’s hike and bike trail. The Boo Thru The Woods begins near the Hofmaster Pavilion. It is a free event.
      The park’s Family Friendly Haunted Wagon Rides through the haunted forest also start the weekend of Oct. 14-5, and will continue on Fridays and Saturdays for the following two weekends. Tickets will be sold from 6:30 p.m. to 9:30 p.m. Wagon rides start at dusk. Ticket prices are adults/$5; children 12 and under/$3; family rates: based on a family of two adults and up to four children $15, Boardman residents; and $18-non Boardman residents.
      Lots of family fun with free events during Haunted Wagon Rides includes a bonfire, children’s bounce-a-round, and Jocko the Balloon Man. Food concessions will be available.
      Proceeds from the park’s Halloween activities benefit the following local non-profit groups: 4-H Club of Mahoning County, P.A.N.D.A. and Boardman High School Key Club.
      For more information on these events or on upcoming events, visit www.boardmanpark.com.
     
  Walsh College Student Awarded First Smith Scholarship  
  October 13, 2016 Edition  
     Sister Jerome’s Mission, a program of the Ursuline Sisters of Youngstown, and the program’s advisory committee, named a scholarship in honor of Clarence R. ‘Sonny’ Smith Jr. and his wife, Rose Marie, during a dinner celebration Sunday evening, Oct. 9, acknowledging the couple’s long-time support of Sister Jerome and her ministries.
      The event was held at the Maronite Center. Some 150 persons attended.
      Sister Jerome was unable to attend, as she is recuperating from a broken hip suffered two weeks ago.
      The Clarence R. and Rose Marie Smith Scholarship will be presented each year to an outstanding student or students taking part in Sister Jerome’s Mission College Program.
      Sister Jerome’s Mission College program breaks the cycle of generational poverty by helping students from low-income families to succeed in college. In addition to pairing students with knowledgeable mentors who guide them through the higher education experience, Sister Jerome’s Mission College program also provides financial assistance for essentials such as food, clothing and transportation. This makes it possible for students to get to class, focus on their studies, earn good grades and graduate well-prepared for jobs that enable them to support themselves and their families.
      Clarence Smith, formerly of Raupp Ave., and former Mahoning County Republican Party chairman, is a long-time friend and supporter of Sister Jerome and her ministries and serves on the advisory committee of Sister Jerome’s Mission.
      A successful businessman, Smith led Diamond Steel Construction Co., a company founded by his father more than 85 years ago, established Compco Industries, Compco Land Co. and has been instrumental in the start-ups of several other area businesses. Smith’s success enables him to support many philanthropic organizations and causes.
      Providing a solid education to the region’s young people has been and remains at the heart of many of those activities, including Sister Jerome’s Mission College program.
      The first recipient of the Clarence R. and Rose Marie Smith Scholarship, Ramone A. Elkins, is a graduate of Youngstown’s East High School. He earned an associate’s degree in general studies from Erie Community College/North, in Buffalo, N.Y. and is attending Walsh University in North Canton on an athletic scholarship. He expects to graduate in 2017 with a degree in physical education. His long-term goal is to continue his education and eventually work as a physical therapist.
  Police Find 29-Year-Old Canfield Man Who Used Heroin Slumped Over A Steering Wheel  
  October 6, 2016 Edition  
     A 29-year-old Canfield man was revived using the anti-opiod drug naloxone, after he was found unconscious and not breathing in a Glenwood Ave. apartment complex parking lot about 1:30 p.m. on Sun., Oct. 2.
      Ptl. Evan Beil answered the call of a man slumped over the wheel of a green Mustang at 4051 Glenwood Ave.
      “His lips, face and hands were blue-ish in color. His skin was extremely pale and ashen in color. He was not breathing,” Officer Beil said, noting “clenched” in the man’s left hand was an uncapped hypodermic needle, “filled with an amber liquid.”
      Officer Beil said he did not feel a pulse on the man and immediately began to use life-saving measures, including CPR, in an attempted to revive the man.
      “Boardman Fire Department and ambulance paramedics arrived and took over life-saving procedures,” Beil said.
      The victim was given the anti-opiod drug naloxone and regained consciousness.
      He was identified as Michael Alan Vrable, 29, of 5642 Bayhill Dr., Canfield, Oh.
      “[He] confessed to consuming ‘a little bit’ of heroin,” Beil said. Vrable was taken by ambulance to a Youngstown hospital.
      Officer Beil said the car driven by Vrable smelled of pot.
      The car was search and inside police found a marihuana grinder, suspected pot, a package of cotton Q-tips, a burnt spoon, a glass pot pipe, a tourniquet and a pill bottle with the date 8/2/2013, Officer Beil said, adding the pill bottle contained at least two, different types of scheduled drugs.
      “I seized the property...along with the syringe containing suspected heroin that was removed from Vrable’s hand,” Officer Beil said, noting the car was impounded and the evidence was held by the Boardman Police Department.
  Comedy Show Tickets  
  A Meridian HealthCare Event:   October 6, 2016 Edition  
     Pittsburgh has the best professional hockey team (NHL Champs Penguins), Cleveland has the best basketball team (NBA Champions Cavaliers)---so which city has the best comedians? Area comedy fans will get a chance to find out at as two of Cleveland’s top stand-up comics join two of Pittsburgh’s best-known comedians in the Crossroads Comedy Rivalry, a Meridian HealthCare event sponsored by PNC Bank. The event will take place on Thursday, Oct. 20 at 7:00 p.m. in the Ford Recital Hall of the DeYor Performing Arts Center in downtown Youngstown. AC McCullough and Kelly Stevens from Hot-101 will serve as emcees. Tickets for the Crossroads Comedy Rivalry can be purchased online at MeridianHealthCare.net or by calling (330) 259-8604. The cost is $20 each
  Boardman High School Orchestra’s Fall Pops Concert Will Be Wed., Oct. 19  
  October 6, 2016 Edition  
     The Boardman High School Classical, Symphony, Chamber and Project Mayhem Orchestras will present a concert at the Boardman Performing Arts Center on Wednesday evening, Oct. 19 at 7:00 p.m.
      Admission donation for the concert will be $3.00 per adult and $1.00 per student with senior citizens, infants and pre-school students admitted free.
      Music with a popular classical flair will be featured on this concert. The theme for this concert is “Music Tells A Story.” Works from Antonio Vivaldi to John Williams will be performed.
      The Boardman Classical Orchestra will open the concert with “Danza Antico” by Del Borgo, “New Hampshire Hornpipe” by Grusin and “Pulsar” by Atwell.
      The Chamber Orchestra will perform the classical works “Concerto for Two Cellos” by Italian composer Antonio Vivaldi, “Choreography” by contemporary American composer Norman Dello Joio and the compelling “Theme from Schindler’s List” by John Williams.
      The Symphony Orchestra will perform “Harry Potter and the Chamber of Secrets” also composed by John Williams, “Russian Sailor’s Dance” by Ukrainian composer Reinhold Gliere and the “Overture to William Tell” by Italian composer Gioacchino Rossini.
      The Chamber Orchestra performance of the Vivaldi Concerto for Two Cellos will feature Simon Pusateri and Wyatt Miller.
      Aadam Zocolo will also be featured during the Chamber Orchestra portion of the concert as the violin soloist in Schindler’s List.
      In addition, several orchestra students will be featured during the Symphony Orchestra portion on The William Tell Overture. The cello quintet at the opening of the piece will be performed by, Simon Pusateri, Wyatt Miller, Sophia Schuler, Delia Walkowiec and Katie Johnson along with Haley Lowe and John Beck on double bass. Later in the piece, Emily Mook on flute and Shannon McMaster on English horn will be featured.
      The evening of performances will all take place in the Boardman Performing Arts Center, built in 2000.
      In addition, Boardman High School’s own renowned rock orchestra; Project Mayhem, will make an appearance to perform rock tunes in Trans-Siberian Orchestra style. The Boardman Orchestras are the only such school-sponsored ensembles in this area.
      The Boardman High School orchestra department instructs over 130 students. The orchestra program is under the direction of Michele Prokop, Bill Amendol and Joel Monaco.
     
  LEGAL NOTICE  
  October 6, 2016 Edition  
     PART-TIME CUSTODIAN
      Boardman Township, Mahoning County Ohio 8299 Market St, Boardman Ohio 44512 is now accepting applications for a Part-Time Custodian. For a list of qualifications and position description please visit www.Boardmantownship.com under Administration – HR Related. This is AFSCME union positon pay in starts at 9.36hr. Applications and position description are also available at Township Government Center. Please mail any applications to the address listed above to the Attn: Jason Loree Township Administrator. To email an application please send them to jloree@boardmantwp.com Deadline for applications are 3:00 pm Wednesday October 12th 2016. Any questions please call Jason Loree at 330-726-4144. Ext. 61817. Boardman Township is an Equal Opportunity Employer.
  LEGAL NOTICE  
  October 6, 2016 Edition  
     NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING
      The Boardman Township Board of Appeals shall hold a Public Hearing on Tuesday, October 18, 2016 at 7:00 PM at the Boardman Township Government Center, 8299 Market Street, Boardman Township, Ohio 44512, for consideration of the following cases:
      APPEAL CASE AC-2016-25
      Jeffry J. Taylor, 43 Lake Shore Drive, Youngstown, Ohio, 44512, property owner, requests a variance for the terms of the Boardman Township Zoning Resolution, effective May 29, 2012, Article V, Residence R-1 Districts, D. Private Garages and Other Out-Buildings, in order to build a 1,200 square foot outbuilding seeking relief from the 225 square foot outbuilding size limit and in order to build a sixteen foot six inch height outbuilding seeking relief from the sixteen foot height limit. The property is further known as Lot 30, IRR Replat of Lot #30 and #32, Herron Heights Plat Number 3, Parcel Number 29-074-0-018.00-0. Said property is zoned Residence R-1, in Boardman Township, Mahoning County, State of Ohio.
      APPEAL CASE AC-2016-27
      James J. Mahoney, 730 Bev Road, Unit 1, Boardman, Ohio, 44512, agent of John Christopher, requests a conditional use variance for the terms of the Boardman Township Zoning Resolution, effective May 29, 2012, Article XVI Administration, Section I Conditional Use Regulations to allow for the operation of a car sales lot at 8141 South Avenue, Youngstown, Ohio 44512. The property is further known as Lot 11 (IRR) Replat of Lots 11, 12 and 13 in the Hutter Plat, Parcel Number 29-051-0-076.00-0. Said property is zoned Commercial, in Boardman Township, Mahoning County, State of Ohio.
      APPEAL CASE AC-2016-28
      Nick Kropolinsky, 19 Erskine Avenue, Youngstown, Ohio 44512, property owner, requests a conditional use variance for the terms of the Boardman Township Zoning Resolution, effective May 29, 2012, Article XVI Administration, Section I Conditional Use Regulations to allow for the operation of a home occupation for a plumbing business. Specifically, to park two service trucks in the driveway at the back of the property at 19 Erskine Avenue, Youngstown, Ohio 44512. The property is further known as Lot 244, The Real Dev Co PL 3, Parcel Number 29-002-0-496.00-0. Said property is zoned Residence R-2, in Boardman Township, Mahoning County, State of Ohio.
      APPEAL CASE AC-2016-29
      Robert Duda, 5737 Lockwood Boulevard, Boardman, Ohio 44512, property owner, requests a variance for the terms of the Boardman Township Zoning Resolution, effective May 29, 2012, Article V, Residence R-1 Districts, D. Private Garages and Other Out-Buildings, in order to build a 1,280 square foot detached garage seeking relief from the 676 square foot detached garage size limit at 5745 Lockwood Boulevard, Boardman, Ohio 44512. The property is further known as Lot 3 IRR Chris Pavelko PL 1, Parcel Number 32-081-0-016.00-0. Said property is zoned Agricultural, in Boardman Township, Mahoning County, State of Ohio.
      Text and maps of the request may be viewed at the Boardman Township Zoning Office, 8299 Market Street, Boardman, Ohio 44512 Monday through Friday, between the hours of 8:00 AM and 4:00 PM, until time of hearing.
      Atty. John F. Shultz, Chairman
      Boardman Township Board of Appeals
      Krista D. Beniston, AICP
      Director of Zoning and Development
     
  Ex-Trustee Miller Distinguishes Herself, Again!  
  Her Racially-Charged Remarks As County Trump Chairman Weren’t The First Time She Spoke ‘That Way’:   September 29, 2016 Edition  
Kathy Miller
     Former Boardman Trustee Kathy Miller distinguished herself once again, this time not by idiotic forums and decisions she made as a local public official, but on the national stage as the Mahoning County campaign coordinator for U.S. Presidential Republican candidate Donald Trump.
      In a published statement, that was widely distributed, Miller made so-called racially-charged remarks, particularly saying there wasn’t any racism before President Barak Obama’s election. She also made a broad statement that low voter turnout among blacks could be related to “the way they are raised.”
      In light of those comments last week, Miller promptly resigned from her post as Trump’s Mahoning County campaign chair, a position that neither Mahoning County GOP chairman, Mark Munroe, or Miller’s replacement, Tracey Winbush, know how she got.
      Mrs. Miller’s remarks and forced resignation come as no surprise to The Boardman News.
      We recall during the tenure of then Boardman Trustees Miller, Thomas Costello and Elaine Mancini, when Jeffrey Patterson served as Chief of Police; and Curt B. Seditz served as Township Administrator; there were some two dozen or so applicants for the position of dispatcher. The list of applicants was reviewed and whittled-down to the top-six candidates, one of whom was a black woman who was a college graduate and most-importantly, well-qualified for the position.
      “The last thing we need is to start filling the place up with unqualified blacks,” Miller said of the dispatcher applicant. One of those sat in on the meeting and who asked not to be named, told The Boardman News that Miller made the statement not once, but twice.
      Mrs. Miller’s method of governance as a township trustee was perhaps, best described by current Trustee Larry Moliterno, who once opined at a township meeting “What bothers me...I am frustrated by [Mrs. Miller] who makes no meaningful contributions...and yet stands on the sidelines and attacks decisions that are made.”
      Mr. Moliterno only scratched the surface of Mrs. Miller’s ignominious tenure as a township trustee, when upwards of a dozen police officers resigned (fled), a fire station was closed down, overtime use in the fire department reached hundreds and hundreds of thousands of dollars, and ‘other’ township officials were constantly debased on social media. At one point, Mrs. Miller sought to replace the township’s computer specialist with her own son.
      If the truth be known, Mr. Trump’s campaign was advised in early June, 2016 that Mrs. Miller needed to be fully vetted before being named Mahoning County chair of Trump’s campaign.
      “You need to turn this one away. This lady will be bad news to you,” the Trump campaign was told via a series of e-mail exchanges.
      Look what happened!
      And despite the furor over her remarks, Mrs. Miller still stands by her statements, a reflection of her knowledge of the history of not only Mahoning County, but the United States.
      Mrs. Miller’s resignation from Trump’s campaign, also shows how the Mahoning County Republican Party had to re-think and adjust its positions on this year’s presidential race.
      Prior to the party’s national convention in Cleveland, the Mahoning County GOP stood solidly behind Ohio’s quirky Republican Gov. John Kasich, who stayed in the presidential race despite an inability to gain voter approval in primary elections.
      The governor even failed to show-up at the national convention in Cleveland, if only to welcome all the delegates to the Buckeye state.
      Finally, when Trump was nominated, the Mahoning County GOP got behind the nominee.
      That was after Winbush made a host of comments on social media that criticized Trump. So, after Winbush was named to replace Miller, she immediately was criticized for her ‘pre-convention’ remarks about Trump.
      Winbush readily admits those pre-convention remarks were “a mistake” and has pledged to work tirelessly for Mr. Trump.
      With that simple admission, already Winbush has shown character that Mrs. Miller has never displayed.
      Recall, when Patrick Berarducci resigned as Police Chief in Boardman, when Mrs. Miller was a Township Trustee?
      “The job here is affecting my health,” Chief Berarducci said upon his resignation.
      Mrs. Miller has had the same affect on the Trump campaign.
  From ‘No Trump’ To Chair For Trump  
  September 29, 2016 Edition  
Tracey Winbush
     A firestorm, of sorts, erupted last week when the Mahoning County Chairperson for the Donald Trump campaign for President of the United States, Kathy Miller, of Boardman, uttered racially-charged remarks, and resigned her position. Taking over the campaign was Tracey Winbush, a member of the Mahoning County Board of Elections and current vice-chairman of the Mahoning County Republican chairman. Ms. Winbush was a strong supporter of Ohio Gov. John Kasich’s bid for the GOP nomination for president, and in that light, during the primaries, she spoke for Kasich, and against Trump. When named to take over for the incapable Miller, social media again buzzed at remarks Winbush made against Trump. Since that time, her position has changed, and she now stands solidly behind the Trump campaign. Winbush authored the following, lengthy story on her journey to support Trump.
      Donald Trump had been flirting with running for President of the United States for years. He would throw his name out there, play with the media, then go back to business as usual. ‘Back then,’ many of us were encouraging Ohio Governor John Kasich to run for President, and there were chants “Run John Run” at several GOP events throughout the state.
      I even mentioned it to Matt Stone in 2012 on election night after Mitt Romney’s defeat. Kasich had proven himself to be a great leader in tough times and had a stubbornness that I happened to admire---When he makes a decision he usually sticks with it and stands by his decisions right or wrong. To me, that is good leadership, especially in government.
      I was confident that Gov. Kasich was going to run, so as others declared their candidacy, I had already chosen my candidate. I’m quoted as saying “Kasich is my horse and I was going to stick with him until he wins or leaves the race,” so as the other 16 people entered the race my goal was to encourage the governor to run and to do whatever was necessary to make sure he won the nomination.
      In July of 2015 when Gov. Kasich decided to throw his hat into the ring, I was right there standing behind him, cheering him on and ready to go to work. I even put together a chartered bus trip to Ohio State University for the announcement. I was all in.
      There is a lot that goes into preparing for a presidential race, getting delegates and alternate delegates, organizing, knowing the laws of each state of how to get on the ballot because each state is different and, there is raising money. Wow, the money that is spent on elections is insane!
      As the State Central Committeewoman for our district I wanted to have the election moved from the first Tuesday after the first Monday to the following Tuesday, May 15 so that we could amend the rules from proportional to ‘winner take all’ delegates. Then it was to win the bid to have the Republican Convention in Cleveland. The work that was put into making that happen was substantial.
      I thought, “Just think we can have the presidential nominee Gov. John Kasich and the 2016 RNC Convention right here in Cleveland. It doesn’t get better than that.”
      Not only did John Kasich join the race last, but he made the cut to be on the main stage for the first debate in Cleveland, Ohio and I was front and center. In my mind, if he declared in July and maybe was able to join the top eight on the main stage in less than four weeks---this is going to be a great campaign, and we are going to kick butt and take names.
      “We’ve Got This,” I thought at the time (when Trump was leading in the GOP polls and he was gathering crowds like a rock star.
      I still believed his campaign was not going anywhere. He could be so insulting and there was at all the drama at his rallies.
      “Big Deal,” I thought, “he may have the crowds but there is no way he will make it to the convention.” He’s not even a moderate conservative, he’s a bully. Low energy Jeb, who does that? He talked about McCain being a POW and not a hero. What presidential candidate who is Republican runs a campaign that way and wins? No way will Trump be in Cleveland.
      In January, 2016 the Iowa Caucuses were held. Gov. Kasich was behind in the polls and I believed that was just because the country had not yet met the leader I know---“Give it some time and let some of these novice candidates out of the race and I know that Gov. Kasich will thrust ahead.
      We (Gov. Kasich’s campaign) lost the Iowa Caucus, big deal, our focus was the New Hampshire primaries, making a great showing there could launch the Kasich campaign to the top three.
      I thought, “Donald Trump is holding in the 30’s percentage and when we toss some of this loose baggage (Santorum, Huckabee, Paul, Fiorina, Jindal, Pataki, Gilmore, and Perry) then we can get down to business, and Trump will fizzle out and go back his life, then it will be Kasich. Bush, Cruz and Rubio. The ticket is Kasich/Rubio now that is the winning GOP ticket.”
      I went to New Hampshire five days before the primary to volunteer---knocking on doors, and making phone calls. Yes, I am on the winning team with the most qualified candidate, and he is working hard making voter contact. A good old- fashion campaign, Kasich went to over 100 town hall meetings is a state whose population is a little larger than Franklin County, Ohio. I personally walked 10 miles a day knocking on doors, and one of those days a snowstorm was so bad, strangers would ask if I wanted to come in and have a cup of tea or coffee, warm up and dry off.
      Gov. Kasich came in fourth behind Trump, Cruz and Rubio, but ahead of Bush. I thought just because the polls showed us behind in other states we still had a lot of time, we just needed to get to the midwest, there we would make up for lost time.
      I traveled to five states volunteering for the Kasich campaign, including New Hampshire, South Carolina, Michigan, Pennsylvania and the great state of Ohio. The experience was great. I would not have traded the long drives, even longer days and nights for the world.
      As the host of Tracey and Friends talk radio show I am always trolling the news and the internet for topics of concern and controversy. I am a social media hack, always reading and re-posting articles on Facebook and Twitter, but very seldom adding my own personal commentary, so reading my feeds can be highly controversial. Postings may be an article I found interesting or something to spark conversation. You never know, but they are always informative and thought-provoking. As I traveled and followed the primary I was throwing articles out there from ‘soup to nuts,’ some I thought were more accurate than others, but the one thing I did know, I did not like Donald J. Trump. He was a bully, he was rude, and he was willing to play the racism card with David Duke to win. (That was what I was told by the media.)
      I’m a talk radio host, I’ve been in the media business for over 20 plus years with 16 years in radio, and I was caught up in the media hype. I read, listened to CNN, FOX, MSNBC, and I read all the news articles.
      I was told that Donald J. Trump was a misogynist, racist, elite, that was using the campaign to “Make America White Again.” He was uninformed and would not be a president that would keep America safe and secure, he would be a tyrant in foreign policy, and would continue to divide us any way he could, gender, race, age---you name it he was going to divide it.
      As an African-American who has felt the bite of racism and prejudice, I can only describe it as a heart-chilling experience that stops your heart and takes your breath away and can and does leave an open wound if not treated. It is feeling that you never want anyone else to experience and when you conceive that it in leadership or someone in authority, you do whatever is necessary to halt its agenda.
      Which brings me to my concerns in the primary about Donald J. Trump. I knew of John Kasich’s approach to racism, discrimination and the bringing people together---encouraging others to have a respect for different cultures and lifestyles even when we don’t agree or understand them. Have respect for all mankind. You know, do unto others as you would have them do unto you. The Golden Rule.
      But then there was ‘The Donald.’ The media was making this candidate for the GOP. The media coverage for Mr. Trump was unbelievable and he knows how to manipulate the media. We received $2 billion in earned media, while other candidates were spending hundreds of millions of dollars on attack ads. But, there was no stopping the ‘Trump Train.’ He had received more votes in a Republican primary than any other candidate in recorded history, and other candidates were falling like dominos, yet Kasich and Cruz and Rubio were still holding on, and now deals were cut---Rubio you take Florida and Kasich you take Ohio, Cruz you target Indiana. The belief was if we could just keep Trump from getting the magic number and hold him at 1000 delegates, we could have an open convention and prevent Trump from being nominated.
      So, at this point, I was really not a Trump supporter. I was bashing Trump on my radio program every chance I got. My social media pages were ablaze and when the David Duke issue came up, my mind was ready “Dump Trump” by any means necessary---to the point I went on record with statewide newspapers saying I would never support him. My colleagues and friends who were not as incensed as I was would tell me “Tracey he is not as bad as you think he is” and if you know me, or ever listened to my radio show, that was not working.
      I could not understand why Trump did not take more of a stand against David Duke. I saw a CNN interview when he said “he could not understand what was being said.” Disavow was not what I wanted to hear from him and I and the other media outlets ran with it.
      I had absolutely no use for Donald Trump, none. It really didn’t look like Kasich or Cruz was going to make it. Cruz then bowed out and Trump was headed to clinching the 1237 delegates needed for the nomination. Now what?
      Let’s step back for a moment.
      It’s April and I’m in an Ohio State Central Committee meeting with the other 65 representatives, the majority of them Kasich delegates and committed supporters, and no-one can see a path for Kasich to get the presidential nomination. He had only won Ohio and there is no real path to 1237 unless we were willing to completely destroy the party and its future. The tension was extremely high I had just been elected as treasurer of the ORP and I made a speech about coming together to “vote” for Trump. The word was “Vote” not “Support.”
      In that speech, I told the committee that no matter how anyone felt about Trump, if he became the nominee we had to vote for him, even if we had ‘to close our eyes, and hold our noses,’ we could not allow Hillary to win in November. I let them know that I was going to have to eat crow because for months I had been bashing Trump, but if we allow Hillary to win, she would move this country to a place we could not recognize.
      I am a common sense conservative but I’m a realist, and I think I have compassion and a broad understanding of people, their culture, and behaviors. I am a fighter, and I do my best to stand for what is right at all times. I believe, if you are wrong you are wrong, and I will not call it right to make you feel better.
      I didn’t have a problem with Donald Trump talking about building a wall to keep illegal persons out of our country or with him saying that the Mexican government was sending their worst to America. the nick-naming of the other candidates, you know, Low-energy Jeb, Little Marco, and don’t forget Lying Ted plus whatever else came out unfiltered.
      But the David Duke incident and the banning of all Muslims went too far. I did not like him. He was rude, brash, and never showed us that he was anything else but a bully, and his supporters were fighting at his rallies.
      I thought I’ll vote for him but I will not support him---“He’s nuts and he race baits.” Now I really had a problem.
      I had studied Donald Trump, the businessman, for years but never the politician or really delved into his personal life. That was not my area of interest. I knew him as a shrewd businessman and years later the featured character on The Apprentice. I knew he had several people of color who worked for him, he was always hosting celebrities and sports figures of color, and from what I could tell was a neutral, all-inclusive guy. I never saw him as politically correct, or a man who minced his words. What I was being shown by the media throughout this campaign was this insensitive, uncaring, belligerent, opportunist wants to be my president. Oh, and I forgot, RACIST.
      As a delegate in Cleveland I was interviewed several times and I was pretty candid, I was a Kasich supporter, but I would vote for Trump, even if I did not like him. I said that he would have to earn my respect before I would support him openly.
      As Vice-Chairman of the Mahoning County Republican Party and Treasurer of the Ohio Republican Party, I would support the down ticket candidates and vote for Trump so that Hillary did not win.
      My theory was I could deal with Trump for four years but I could not live a lifetime with the decisions that Hillary would make. I remain confident that she will cement in place the socialist agenda of President Obama and take us even further left, and the American I know and love will be no more.
      I was a part of the Republican Platform Committee and was able to help draft language that I believe will make America Stronger. I attended the sessions in the evening and was there for the vote that made Donald J. Trump the nominee for the Republican Party.
      “Wow, he really did it,” I thought.
      I talked with others there at the convention from all over the country and there were several people that had the same concerns that I did about Mr. Trump.
      Then I ran into Don King, and he talked about the man he knew personally. He spoke for about 40 minutes in the concourse of the Q about how Trump wanted to break the system so that the people can have their country back, how the system was squeezing the middle class out and how the opportunities that were awarded to him (Mr. Trump) and his father are no longer available in the United States
      Mr. King talked about how people are working from paycheck to paycheck and not getting ahead and the people we are electing are voting for raises and specialized healthcare for themselves, their friends, and their family and not for the people they are supposed to represent. He said Trump was not a racist, nor did he have an elitist attitude and that all he wanted was to have the American people be represented and to ‘Make America First’ in the hearts and minds of our elected officials.
      That Thursday evening when Donald J. Trump accepted the nomination I listened to his speech attentively and said to myself, “God, keep him safe, he really wants to break the system that is holding the average Americans back” Wow!
      I returned home and began to research the personal Trump and I found out that he is not the person that the media has so frequently painted. He is very compassionate and caring, and all he really wants is to make America strong again.
      I had dinner with his son and daughter-in- law where I had the opportunity to sit next to them and have a conversation about Mr. Trump. I asked several questions and without hesitation, they answered each one. I was so impressed with Eric and Laura by their humbleness, and selflessness it was really remarkable.
      Now for the icing on the cake, last Wednesday before I was asked to be the Chairperson for the Trump/Pence campaign I had the opportunity to be around ‘The Donald’ and all I can say is “What an impressive man.”
      I found him to be humble, charismatic, warm, quiet, and very appreciative---nothing likewhat I was told by the media or how I portrayed him.
      I can actually say it is my honor to represent the Trump/Pence campaign and I stand proudly with great confidence and tell you that the Republican nominee Donald J. Trump is the best man for the country and for our country’s future. Together we will “Make America Great Again.” And when you see the establishment attack him, know they are the ones that created this system, and they want to keep it as it is because they have a personal agenda and we the Americans are only pawns for their use.
      “I found him to be humble, charismatic, warm, quiet, and very appreciative...I can
      actually say it is my honor to represent the Trump/Pence campaign and I stand proudly with great confidence and tell you that the Republican
      nominee Donald J. Trump is
      the best man for the country and for our country’s future.” .... Tracey Winbush
     
  Free Wi-Fi Available At Boardman Park Where 32 Security Cameras Now Operate  
  Disc Golf Course Under Development:   September 29, 2016 Edition  
     Boardman Township Park announces that free Wi-Fi is now available to park visitors.
      “The new network will enable visitors to get online and will enhance their park experience, while offering patrons the benefit of extended connectivity. The Wi-Fi will be accessible to everyone with a smart phone, laptop, or any Wi-Fi enabled mobile device. The name of the Wi-Fi access is Boardman Park WiFi,” the park’s executive director, Daniel Slagle Jr., said this week.
      Internet access will be available in the northern portion of the park, where all of the recreational facilities are located. The Wi-Fi access will start at the Rt. 224 entrance and extend southward to the Chester Long Pavilion. There will be no Wi-Fi access in the wooded, natural areas of the park. Additionally, there is Wi-Fi access in the Lariccia Family Community Center and the Georgeanna Parker Activity Center.
      “In today’s digital world, internet access is not a luxury, but a necessity as we move further into the 21st century,” Slagle said, adding “This service to improve connectivity in our park helps us further our efforts to expand park amenities and enhance the park experience for the benefit of our community.
      “Whether you are reading a book on your tablet while having lunch, hiking along the North Trail playing Pokémon, or checking your email or text at a family reunion picnic, there will be free Wi-Fi available. People will be able enjoy the outdoors while staying connected.”
      Taking a proactive approach concerning the safety of visitors and the protection of park property, 32 outdoor security cameras have been installed throughout the park.
      “This is part of our ongoing efforts to provide visitors with a safe and comfortable environment. These new cameras bring security to all outdoor facilities at the Park, and this will contribute greatly to the safety and security of our visitors,” Slagle said, adding “The installation of security cameras is another step to deter crime and assist police during their investigations”. The cameras will provide video surveillance for the playgrounds, walking trails, parking lots and other outdoor facilities.
      With pickle-ball being a popular and fast growing sport, Boardman Park now has two pickle-ball courts (set up on one of the park’s two tennis courts) available on Saturday mornings, from 9:00 a.m. to noon.
      Another sport growing in popularity is disc golf. Disc golf is a social sport that everyone can play, regardless of age, ability, or gender and gives people an opportunity to enjoy nature while playing a competitive game. A committee of volunteers has researched and assessed the interests of the community regarding the establishment of a disc golf course in Boardman Park. The results indicate that there is a very high interest in the sport; therefore, plans have been developed to construct a nine-hole course at the park.
      However, because of the park’s limited budget, volunteers are reaching out to local businesses, organizations, and individuals to secure the necessary funding in order to build among the first ‘disc courses’ in Mahoning County. Disc golf has been a very popular sport at the national level since 1975, with over 1,700 courses. There are 54 courses in the state of Ohio. Any individuals or companies that would like to sponsor the disc golf course can do so by calling the park at 330-726-8105 to receive more information about sponsor levels and recognition.
      When deciding and planning on new improvements to the park, Slagle says he looks to the Park’s mission statement: “We are committed to creating wholesome opportunities to live and interact with family, friends and neighbors, which are opportunities for living, learning, and leading full and productive lives as well as avenues for people to experience purpose, pleasure, health and well-being.
      “The realization of our new improvements will facilitate the Park’s mission, and most definitely be an asset for the community.”
  Portion Of Market St. Dedicated In Honor Of Army Helicopter Pilot  
  CWO Clark Died In A Helicopter Crash In Iraq:   September 15, 2016 Edition  
CWO Don V. Clark
      Dedication ceremonies were held on Monday at the Township Government Center to recognize Army Chief Warrant Officer 3 and Boardman native, Don V. Clark, who was killed in a helicopter crash Nov. 15, 2008 in Mosul, Iraq while serving during Operation Iraqi Freedom. He was 37-years-old when he died, and the Army has never revealed whether Clark, or Army Chief Warrant Officer 2 Christian P. Humphreys, 28, was piloting the aircraft when it crashed. They were the only two persons on board the aircraft.
      The military also said that “the incident appeared to be combat-unrelated and there was no enemy contact in the area.”
      Under legislation sponsored by State Sen. Joe Schiavoni, Market St., from Rt. 224 to Western Reserve Rd. was dedicated as the Donald V. Clark Memorial Highway.
      Among upwards of 140 people who attended the dedication were Clark’s parents, Donald and Linda, Sen. Schiavoni and State Rep. John Boccieri, Boardman Township Trustees Larry Moliterno, Tom Costello and Brad Calhoun; and a host of veterans.
      Ceremonies opened with a prayer delivered by Carol Fuller, followed by members of the Boardman High School choral music program who sang the national anthem and God Bless America. While at Boardman High School, Clark a 1989 graduate, was a member of the Spartan Marching Band under the direction of Thomas Groth, and was also a member of the school’s swim team.
      “How to we put into words, a man who volunteered to fight for freedom? How do you adequately put into words the grief felt by his family?
      “You can’t,” Trustee Moliterno said, noting “His courage and character will help all of us feel stronger.”
      Also addressing the throng was the fallen pilot’s father, Don Clark.
      “Today would have been Don’s 45th birthday. It is appropriate this ceremony is being held near the anniversary of 9/11. That is the reason my son ended-up in Iraq,” Mr. Clark observed.
      He noted his son was always ready “to do what was needed to get the job done.
      “The helicopter he flew protected our soldiers. He was an American to the extreme and liver everyday as if it was the most important day of his life.”
      Mr. Clark said his son loved his military career, and concluded “Our hearts are sad over his loss, but we are proud of his life.”
      In brief remarks, Rep. Boccieri noted, “America remains strong because of people like CWO-3 Don Clark. We cannot defend our nation without people like Don Clark.”
  Property Transfers Could Add $600,000 Revenue To Schools  
  New Fire Station Could Be Built Without A Tax Levy:   September 15, 2016 Edition  
     The Boardman Local School District will have a 5.5-mil renewal issue on the November general election ballot for ‘emergency requirements’ that, if approved, will generate about $4.646 million over the next ten years.
      The local school district could add more to $600,000 in revenue, if it chose to act upon a proposed property agreement with Boardman Township, and if it considered the sale of the current McClurg Rd. location of the Boardman Local School Bus Garage.
      In a proposed property agreement, the school bus garage operation would be moved from its current location, to the former Diamond Steel headquarters on Raupp Ave.
      In exchange, Boardman Township would get two acres of land at the corner of Stadium Dr. and Market St., currently owned by the school board, and has offered to pay the schools about $280,000 additional for the site.
      Meeting in July, the school board unanimously approved a motion authorizing its president and treasurer “to sign and approve the plat...which is proposed to be conveyed to Boardman Township pursuant to a property transfer agreement for a proposed fire station.”
      On Aug. 27, the school board held a special meeting where the topic of an executive session was “purchase or sale of property.”
      The agenda of the meeting noted, “Action will not be taken.”
      The Boardman Local School Bus Garage property on McClurg Rd. is valued at some $340,000. Private buyers have expressed an interest in purchasing that site. But the board, according to a former school official, does not want to act on the sale of the McClurg Rd. property, until an agreement is reached on the Stadium Dr. at Market St. location.
      Boardman Township officials would like to reach an agreement, indeed thought they did, on the proposed fire station property, offering to make annual payments of $25,000 on the property transfer.
      As well, several township officials have indicated the current site of the main fire station, at Boardman-Poland Rd. and Southern Blvd. (including the former Boardman Township Road Department site) could be sold for upwards of $1.2 million to a private developer, that wants to start on its project by late next year.
      Monies from the township’s sale would be used to fund a new, main fire station. Under a proposal made by Township Fiscal Officer William Leicht, the new fire station could be funded with the sale, and no additional taxpayer funds would be needed for the project.
      The old road department building was demolished last year.
      The main fire station was built sometime in the 1930s, as a project of the Works Project Administration. It was ‘remodeled’ in the early 1970s and the work was substandard, as the roof had bad leaks during heavy rainfalls.
      In the 1990s, firemen complained of mold in the basement, and the township spent more than $30,000 conducting air sampling tests.
      Township Trustees have developed plans for the construction of a new fire station, and will soon review ‘final plans’ for such a project.
      A new main fire station, built without an additional tax levy; upwards of $600,000 in additional revenue for the local school district, await a decision from the school board, whose president, Vickie Davis, is the administrative assistant for Boardman Fire Chief Mark Pitzer.
      Additionally, St. Elizabeth Hospital officials have met with township and school board representatives over the past two years, seeking to get the school bus garage away from their health care site.
      They have suggested the bus garage extends onto hospital property, a claim one school official has denied.
  First Annual Christine Terlesky Golf Tournament At The Lake Club Sept. 19  
  September 15, 2016 Edition  
     The first annual Christine Terlesky Lake Club Invitational golf tournament for high school girls will be held Mon., Sept. 19 at 1:00 p.m. at the Lake Club.
      Eight teams in Division I and Division II from the Mahoning Valley will participate in the 18-hole event. On Sunday, the teams will play an 18 hole practice round and then attend a buffet dinner in the Lake Club banquet room.
      One of the speakers at the dinner will be Christine Terlesky, former teacher and coach at Boardman, who is battling ALS. The tournament is being named in her honor.
      Division I teams participating are Boardman, Austintown Fitch, Canfield, Howland, Massillon Jackson, Canton GlenOak, Green and North Canton Hoover.
      Division II teams are Beaver Local, Champion, Lakeview, Poland, Cardinal Mooney, Ursuline, Warren JFK and Columbiana.
      Ed Muransky, president of the Lake Club; Chris Sammartino, vice-president; and Dennis Miller, director of golf will provide an exciting first-class tournament.
      Denise Gorski commented, “Ed, Chris, and Dennis are very excited about this opportunity to host a local high school girls invitational. Ed has far exceeded any expectations I had on making this one of the premier high school outings in the state. And he really wanted to do something to help the Terlesky family out with their medical expenses. As everyone knows, Ed has a big heart and organizes first class events,” said Denise Gorski, Boardman High School athletic director.
      The idea for the invitational came about after last year’s state golf tournament.
      “My husband Dan and I went down to watch our boys team and Jacinta Pikunas and Jenna Vivo play at the state tournament last fall. Christine went to the practice round but after that could not attend any more of the tournament. Her family had to eventually take her home.
      “On our way back home, Dan and I talked about how heartbreaking it was and what could we do for her and the family. Then we thought about having a high school girls’ tournament in her honor, something that would be a lasting legacy. As members of the Lake Club, we set up a meeting with Ed, Chris and Dennis and it went from there,” Gorski said.
      Muransky also allowed for sponsorship levels to help with the Terlesky family expenses and wanted all of the sponsorship raised to go only to the family and not to any of the tournament expenses.
      Gorski had to check with the OHSAA to make sure on sponsorships so eligibility was not compromised.
      The Lake Club is the presenting sponsor of the entire tournament. Sponsorship levels still can be purchased at platinum level ($1,000), gold level ($500), silver ($250) and bronze ($100). Those interested in a sponsorship need to contact Denise Gorski by Sat., Sept. 17 at 330-726-3423. A large banner will be on display at the outing with all of the sponsors listed on it.
  Portion Of Market St. Will Be Renamed To Honor Helicopter Pilot Who Died In Iraq  
  August 25, 2016 Edition  
     Western Reserve Rd. to Rt. 224 is expected to be renamed the Army Chief Warrant Officer Donald V. Clark Memorial Highway in honor of a Boardman native who died at the age of 37 in a helicopter accident over Mosul, Iraq on Nov. 15, 2008.
      “By renaming this highway, we can memorialize the efforts of a local hero and ensure that his legacy lives on,” State Sen. Joe Schiavoni said.
      CWO Clark, who lives at 8240 Stadler Ave., graduated from Boardman High School in 1989. He then served in the Navy until 1995 when he joined the Army.
      In 2008, Clark deployed to Iraq as part of the 6th Squadron, 17 Calvary Regiment, Task Force 49, U.S. Army Alaska, Fort Wainwright, Alaska. On November 15, Clark and Chief Warrant Officer Christian P. Humphreys were killed when their OH-58 Kiowa Warrior helicopter crashed during a mission over the northern Iraqi city of Mosul.
      “Donald Clark was raised in Boardman and traveled many miles up and down Market Street to school, band, and orchestra events before graduating. He was proud to serve his country as a helicopter pilot. To his mother Linda, father Donald, and sister Deana he is a true American hero.,” Boardman Township Administrator Jason Loree said.
      During funeral service held in Dothan, Alabama, CWO-3 Clark was described as a world class soldier and his wife’s hero.
      During the ceremony folded American flags were presented to Clark’s 8-year-old son, Bailey, to his wife, Jamie, and to his parents.
      CW3 Mike Eckhart’s hand trembled when he presented the flag to Mrs. Clark. Eckhart was Clark’s wingman.
      “He was absolutely fearless in support of his brothers in combat,” said Eckhart, who delivered the eulogy and told stories of a gregarious, talented, driven soldier who felt truly free in the sky and in the Alaskan wilderness.
      His fellow soldiers called him ‘Genghis Don.’ Eckhart referred to Clark as a real man and a world class soldier.
      Rev. David Willis read a letter Mrs. Clark wrote for the service in which she said, “Don and I were the sweetest love story ever told. He was my hero. The sorrow I feel is immeasurable. Don loved his family, his friends, his comrades and his country.”
      Willis described Clark as a smart man who could have done anything with his life.
      “But he chose to stand together shoulder to shoulder with brave men and women to fight tyranny,” Willis said.
      Memorial roadway dedication ceremonies are tentatively set for Sept. 12.
  Sister Jerome’s Mission Will Honor Sonny Smith Sun., Oct. 9  
  August 25, 2016 Edition  
Clarence R Smith Jr
      The advisory committee of Sister Jerome’s Mission, a program of the Ursuline Sisters of Youngstown, will honor Clarence R. ‘Sonny’ Smith Jr. at a dinner celebration set for Sun., Oct. 9 at the Maronite Center, Meridian Rd., Youngstown.
      Smith is a long-time friend and major supporter of Sister Jerome and her ministries and serves on the advisory committee of Sister Jerome’s Mission, which through its Mission College program helps capable, hard-working college students from low-income families break the cycle of generational poverty.
      Sister Jerome’s Mission College program pairs these first-generation college students with knowledgeable mentors and provides financial assistance so they can earn their degrees and enter the world of work well-prepared for careers that will enable them to support themselves and their families.
      Smith, the former Mahoning County Republican chairman, led Diamond Steel, a company founded by his father more than 85 years ago, established Compco Industries and Compco Land Co., both of Columbiana, and has been instrumental in the start-ups of several other area businesses. Recently Compco purchased QFM, a metal stamping company. Smith’s success enables him to support many philanthropic organizations and causes.
      In 2002, Smith was chosen as Penguin of the Year by the Youngstown State University Penguin Club. He is a member of the Mahoning Valley Council of Churches and Organization of Protestant Men; and a former member of Boardman United Methodist Church and current member of Greenford Christian Chutch.
      Smith is married to the former Rosemarie Poschner and they have been married for 66 years. Providing a solid education to the region’s young people has been and remains at the heart of many of those activities, including Sister Jerome’s Mission College program.
      For more information or an invitation to the event, call Sister Jerome’s Mission at 330-259-8765.
  Open House Held For Township’s New Zoning Director  
  August 11, 2016 Edition  
     Newly-named Boardman Township Director of Zoning and Development, Krista Beniston, was welcomed to the township’s administrative team at an open house held on Monday, prior to an evening meeting of the Board of Trustees.
      Beniston will earn $60,289 a year in the post and replaces the township’s recently named Road Superintendent, Marilyn Kenner, in the zoning post. Kenner had served in a dual capacity as head of the zoning and road departments since July 1, following the resignation of Sarah Gartland as zoning/planning director; and the retirement of Road Chieftan Larry Wilson.
      Beniston, a Mar., 2008 graduate of Miami University, comes to Boardman Township after working with the Akron (Oh.) Metropolitan Area Transportation Study (AMATS) since Oct., 2008
      Since Feb., 2011, she served as a planning and transportation planner with AMATS.
      In her role with AMATS, Beniston says she played a leadership role “in the development [of the agency] from a roads and bridges transportation agency to a dynamic organization driving community change through innovative transportation and land use planning and funding.”
      From July, 2007 - June, 2008, Beniston worked as a planning assistant with the city of Dublin, Oh., where a portion of her duties included zoning-related work.
      She earned a masters degree from the Ohio State University in Mar., 2008 with a major in city and regional planning.
     
      PICTURED: AN OPEN HOUSE WAS HELD ON Monday afternoon to welcome Boardman Township’s new director of zoning and planning, Krista Beniston. Pictured, from left, longtime Boardman Township Zoning Board of Appeals Chairman Atty. John Shultz, Larry Moliterno, chairman of the Boardman Township Board of Trustees; Mrs. Beniston; and Larry Liguore, former Boardman Trustee and current member of the Boardman Zoning Board of Appeals.
  Nashbar Family Donates 16-Acres Of Natural Habitat To Boardman Park  
  August 11, 2016 Edition  
     The Board of Commissioners of Boardman Township Park, Joyce Mistovich, Trent Cailor and Joshua Zarlenga, announce a most generous gift of 16 acres of natural habitat by the Arni Nashbar family, formerly of Hitchcock Rd. The property is located on Southern Blvd. near Western Reserve Road, and is a wooded natural area that includes 8.35 acres of jurisdictional wetlands.
      “The generosity of the Nashbars greatly facilitates our mission to preserve areas of natural habitat for the benefit of our community,” the park’s executive director Daniel Slagle said.
      The addition of the property brings the park’s total acreage to 283 acres, with 175 acres devoted to the preservation of natural habitat; and most importantly, brings the park’s wetland total to 18 acres.
      “Wetlands are important features in the landscape that provide numerous benefits for people and wildlife. These benefits include protecting and improving water quality, providing fish and wildlife habitats, and storing floodwaters. The benefits of wetlands are valuable not only to Boardman Township, but for societies worldwide,” Slagle said.
      “The Nashbar’s gift of this wonderful exhibit of nature clearly demonstrates their awareness of the importance of preserving areas of natural habitat, as well as their appreciation of the environment. We are honored to be the recipient of this property, that we will most properly name The Arni Nashbar Family Wildlife Preserve. We deeply appreciate the Nashbar family’s generosity and their willingness to facilitate our efforts to enhance and preserve the beauty of the Park and our community. Please be assured that the preservation of the property is a responsibility that we will look forward to,” Slagle noted.
      “It has been our honor and pleasure to give this land to Boardman Park….Environmental preservation has always been near and dear to our hearts and much credit needs to be given to Boardman Park for their conscientiousness in preserving natural habitat,” said Arni and Cheryl Nashbar.
      Boardman Park was established in 1947, with 72 acres; and over the years, the park has grown into a community park, rich in natural beauty, comprised of 283 acres of fertile greenspace located in Boardman. Today, the park provides 68 acres for active recreational purposes and proudly preserves 175 acres as undisturbed natural habitat. The park also maintains 40 acres of open space property located in several areas of the township.
      Boardman Park is not only a sanctuary for numerous species of plants and animals, but also is a recreational haven for the community it serves, a place where families gather to enjoy one of our community’s greatest treasures, its natural resources. Upwards of 500,000 people a year visit Boardman Park.
  Administrator Has Served For A Decade  
  August 4, 2016 Edition  
Jason Loree
      Entering his second decade of service as Boardman Township Administrator is 34-year-old Jason Loree.
      Loree actually began his career at Boardman Township as a student intern from Kent State University in 2005. During that time he worked on accreditation programs with the police department, and then stayed another three months, working with assistant administrator Christina Griffith, developing a policy manual.
      In Aug., 2006, following graduation from KSU, Loree returned to Boardman Township, as an administrative assistant, first under longtime Administrator Curt B. Seditz, and then briefly under Administrator Michael Villano, who served less than a month with Boardman Township.
      With the township in disarray under the leadership of Trustees Robin Gallitto and Kathy Miller, Loree took over the top spot when Villano abruptly left his post citing a lack of collegiality (the cooperative relationship of colleagues) in Boardman. At 24-years-old, he was the youngest township administrator in Ohio.
      “I had accepted a position with the Village of Carrollton and was due to be there in Sept., 2006. But I decided to stay home and accepted the job as administrator in Boardman,” Loree said this week.
      He notes his tenure as Boardman Township Administrator has been fulfilling, especially working with the current four, elected officials including Trustees Tom Costello, Brad Calhoun and Larry Moliterno, and Fiscal Officer William Leicht.
      “I was only on the job for three months and suddenly I had to deal with an issue involving two police officers we eventually had to remove from the force for improper conduct. I learned rather quickly it takes a lot of stamina and decorum to do this job properly,” Loree recalled this week.
      “Things can get kind of hectic. You can have your day, or week all planned out, and then you get a call that can disrupt everything.
      “People really want to talk to you, and many times if you just give the courtesy of talking with them, everything can be solved. They appreciate you took the time to hear them out,” Loree said.
      He noted his job “really gives me a sense of pride when things go right.”
      A graduate of Boardman High School, Loree was named by then Ohio Gov. Bob Taft as a student member of the Kent State Board of Trustees.
      “It was an amazing experience, seeing first-hand how a university board of trustees operates. They were always prepared, and when they didn’t have an answer for something, they would admit it, and find an answer. It’s a lesson that still carries with me today,” Loree said.
      Another influence in Loree’s life was his grandfather, the late Joe Loree Sr., who founded The Sandwich Factory.
      “Grandpa taught me the importance of family, choosing just a few good friends, and how to be responsible,” the administrator said.
      One of the hardest tasks Loree has had while leading Boardman Township was the layoffs of firemen and road personnel, and the closing of a fire station in 2008.
      “We were able to get over that with a new Board of Trustees who brought the township together and we were able to pass two levies. That showed the importance of working together, and I can tell you, without passage of those issue, we wouldn’t be where we are today” Loree said.
      Under the current board of trustees, Loree notes that Boardman Township expanded its annual Community Day program and now once a year, in June, thousands come to the Boardman Township Government Center where they view all aspects of the township’s operations, and, as well, enjoy free food and pop.
      “That event has created a sense of fellowship in the community,” Loree observed.
      Other programs he has worked on that have reaped benefits for Boardman include an electric and natural gas aggregation program to insure the lowest-possible rates for residents, a drug drop-off program at the police department (one of the township’s most popular programs), a paving program where bids are sought with several townships creating lower prices and providing more funds to pave more roads, a dog park at Boardman Park and the consolidation of 9-1-1 programs in Mahoning County.
      Among the first programs he completed was refurbishing the Marie P. DeBartolo Meeting Room, where trustees meet.
      Expected to be completed within a month is a property swap with the Boardman Local Schools that will result in a new fire station at Market St. and Stadium Dr., and a new school bus garage on Raupp Ave.
      “This job can be difficult, especially when answers ro issues are elusive,” Loree said this week, adding “We are fortunate here in Boardman to have elected officials who work together. They always ask, if we are going to do something, will it benefit the township, its businesses and residents. When we work that way, things get done.”
      Township Administrator
      Annual Salaries In Ohio
      West Chester.........................................$133,736
      Miami......................................................$120,000
      Jackson....................................................$99,382
      Liberty......................................................$99,372
      Sylvania....................................................$95,712
      Austintown...............................................$90,000
      Boardman.................................................$86,000
      Howland....................................................$82,148
      Plain..........................................................$73,440
      Norwich....................................................$55,000
     
      Pictured: photo/John A. Darnell jr.
       BOARDMAN TOWNSHIP ADMINISTRATOR JASON LOREE, pictured, has served in the post for 10 years. He says the job is very rewarding, “when things go right.”
  Cleveland Browns Grid Greats, Bernie Kosar And Jim Brown,  
  August 4, 2016 Edition  
     photo/John A. Darnell jr.
       CLEVELAND BROWNS GRID GREATS BERNIE KOSAR, left, and Jim Brown, at right, share a moment on Monday night during the banquet for the Youngstown Phantoms Stick to Clubs golf outing held at the Lake Club. 144 golfers participated in the annual event.
  Eddie DeBartolo Jr. First NFL Owner With Five Super Bowl Titles  
  Hall of Fame Enshrinement Set For Aug. 6:   July 28, 2016 Edition  
Edward J. DeBartolo Jr.
     BY JOHN A. DARNELL JR.
      associate editor
      It was almost 40 years ago, in 1977, the Mahoning Valley climbed into elite circles when Edward J. DeBartolo Jr., then 32-years-old, assumed control of the San Francisco 49ers, purchasing a majority interest in the team for $17 million.
      DeBartolo’s father, Edward Sr., had become a national figure in the years before the purchase, as an American shopping mall pioneer, and had been rebuffed in his efforts to buy a professional baseball team, the Chicago White Sox; and now his son acquired a professional football team.
      Would he be as successful as his father?
      The Niners, under those first two seasons of DeBartolo ownership, didn’t show much, finishing back-to-back 2-14 campaigns.
      And Eddie Jr. wasn’t exactly well-liked in San Francisco.
      So, Eddie, his father, Bill Moses (Mr. D’s assistant) and Atty. Carmen Policy met for weeks in the Bay area, courting then Stanford University head grid coach Bill Walsh to become their new head coach.
      Eventually, Walsh agreed, and the Niners fortunes grew into a legend when Walsh, with quarterback Joe Montana, implemented the ‘west coast offense,’ and 1981 the Niners won their first of five Super Bowls under Eddie’s leadership.
      The franchise posted the best winning percentage in the NFL in both the decades of the 1980s and 1990s. DeBartolo was named the NFL Man of the Year by the Football News in 1989 as recognition as one of the nation’s top sports executives, and in 2008 was named to the national Italian Sports Hall of Fame. In 2009, he was inducted into the San Francisco 49ers Hall of Fame.
      The Niners shared their success with the people in the Mahoning Valley, bringing team members to Boardman many times for victory parties. Thousands would attend the celebrations. Among the most memorable was 1988 Super Bowl champs, who all were in town on May 5, 1989 at Mr. Anthony’s on South Ave. where The Team of the Eighties was featured.
      Under DeBartolo Jr., and with Carmen Policy as team legal counsel, the Niners weren’t afraid to spend money, a lot of it, to get the best players. They spent so much money and won so many times, eventually the NFL changed its rules to stop the artful maneuvers orchestrated by Eddie and Carmen.
      23 years after Eddie’s magical run in pro football, he hit a large bump in the roadway when he got involved with Louisiana Gov. Edward Ed wards in a $400,000 transaction over a gambling permit in Boosier City, La.
      The bump forced Eddie out of pro football and the Niners were turned over to his sister, Denise, whose family still owns the team today, looking for their first win in a Super Bowl.
      Sports fans argue about a lot of stuff. Who was the best at this or that, etc.?
      But, ask the question: Who is the first NFL owner to win five Super Bowls.
      There is only one---
      Eddie DeBartolo Jr., from Boardman, Ohio.
       Note: Mr. DeBartolo Jr. now resides in Tampa, Fla. He founded DeBartolo Holdings LLC in 2002 and its portfolio companies include DeBartolo Development, DeBartolo Sports and Events, DeBartolo Family Foundation, Brooks DeBartolo Collegiate High School, Famous Famiglia and D-Terra Solutions. Eddie also achieved the pinnacle of hockey greatness in the early 1990s, winning two Lord Stanley Cup Championships during the family’s tenure as owners of the Pittsburgh Penguins (1990–91 and 1991–92); and during which the Penguins signed all-time great Mario Lemieux.
      Here’s what Carmen Policy (49ers executive, (1983-98) offered on Eddie D:
       •“He deserves to be in the Hall of Fame because he’s one of a kind. Sports relishes the one of a kind...If you’re talking about a business Hall of Fame, you’d have to say Steve Jobs belongs because he thought about things differently. Eddie was that kind of visionary. He was not the most brilliant financial guy in terms of crunching numbers, but he changed the NFL’s treatment of players...His message to players was, ‘Okay, if you’re going to go out there and lay it all on the line, I’m going to lay it all on the line for you. I may not be able to help you on the field, but I’m going to help you out in every other way I can.’”
       •And Joe Montana (49ers quarterback 1979-1992) noted “I think that there is no one more deserving for the Hall of Fame. The culture has changed, and it’s because Eddie and Bill Walsh were able to change the way the game was played for a while. The guys on our team looked at him like he was another player. He was not like a regular owner. You could look in his eyes and just see that he had the fire and that he had the love. I don’t think I’ve met anyone who had more love for the organization or the NFL than Eddie D.”
     
      PICTURED:SET FOR INDUCTION INTO THE PRO FOOTBALL HALL OF FAME during ceremonies set for Sat., Aug. 6 in Canton, Oh. is Boardman native and former San Francisco 49ers owner Edward J. DeBartolo Jr. DeBartolo-led Niners teams were the first NFL franchise to win five Super Bowls (1981, 1984, 1988, 1989 and 1994). His team still owns the record for most wins over a 10-year span in NFL history. The 49ers during DeBartolo’s reign claimed 13 division titles, made 16 playoff appearances, advanced to the NFC championship game 10 times. The franchise posted the best winning percentage in the NFL in both the decades of the 1980s and 1990s.
     
  Vaxxed At Cinema South Only On Wed., Aug. 3  
  Documentary Exposes Link Between Autism And MMR Vaccinations:   July 21, 2016 Edition  
      The controversial documentary film “Vaxxed, From Cover-Up to Controversy” is headed to Boardman for a one-night screening event at Cinema South on Wed., Aug. 3 at 7:30 p.m.
      Vaxxed is an investigation into how the CDC (Centers for Disease Control and Prevention), the government agency charged with protecting the health of American citizens, concealed and destroyed data in their 2004 study that showed a link between the MMR vaccine and autism.
      “This alarming deception has contributed to the skyrocketing increase of autism, potentially the most catastrophic epidemic of our lifetime,” says Marsha Karzmer, of Overhill Rd., who is responsible for bringing the documentary to CinemaSouth.
      “It’s not that I’m against vaccines. I’m not totally anti-vaccine. But, like this documentary shows, there is a link between autism and the MMR vaccine,” Karzmer says, pointing to statistics that reflect the alarming increase in the number of children with autism.
      For example, Karzmer notes in 1980, about one in every 10,000 children had autism. Ten years ago the rate was one in every 116 children, and today that rate is about one in every 45 children.
      Stephanie Seneff, a research scientist at MIT, claims in the movie Vaxxed that by the year 2032 one in every two boys will have autism if they stick with current vaccination schedules.
      “That’s alarming and people need to know about it. See this documentary and you will hear from the people who have done the research,” Karzmer said.
      Tickets can only be purchased online. They will not sold at the theatre so reserve tickets ahead of time by going to http://gathr.us/screening/15973
      Vaxxed garnered international headlines when it was ‘de-selected’ from the already-announced line-up of the Tribeca Film Festival under pressure from festival sponsors with close ties to Big Pharma and purportedly from filmmakers.
      “When it was originally announced as part of the program, there was a coordinated effort to brand the film as “anti- vaccine,” when in fact it calls for safer vaccines. Many of those who set out to censor the film, had never actually seen it,” Karzmer noted.
      Actor Robert De Niro, a Tribeca Festival co-founder, later disavowed the ‘disinvitation’ of the film and went on national network television (NBC’s Today Show) to urge the public to “go see this film.”
      In an interview published May 20 on Vulture.com, before revealing plans to make his own documentary on vaccines with Harvey Weinstein, De Niro shared what he learned from the Vaxxed controversy:
      “First of all, there was a big reaction, which I didn’t see coming, and it was from filmmakers, supposedly, I have yet to find out who it was. I wanted to just know who they were, because to me there was no reason not to see the movie.
      “The movie is not hurting anybody. It says something. It said something to me that was valid. Maybe some things were inaccurate, but if the movie was 20 percent accurate, it was worth seeing. And they were saying it’s because of the filmmaker and he was discredited, but how was he discredited? By the medical establishment? “There’s a lot going on that I still don’t understand, but it makes me question the whole thing, and the whole vaccine issue is a real one. It’s big money,” says Karzmer.
      “This is an important event for our community on many levels as it allows the voices of autism families to be heard and their experiences to be seen. It allows us to discuss the issues surrounding vaccine safety and health freedom, and it brings us together so we can discuss ways in which we can collaborate on these issues for the future,” Karzmer said.
  Austintown Administrator Named Principal At Stadium Dr. Elementary  
  July 21, 2016 Edition  
Mike Zoccali
      At a special board meeting Wednesday evening, July 13, the Boardman Local School Board unanimously approved hiring Mike Zoccali, 38, as the new principal at Stadium Drive Elementary School. Zoccali comes to Boardman with more than 15 years of experience as a teacher and administrator.
      Zoccali graduated from Youngstown State University in 2000 and received his masters in administration from Westminster College. He began his career in education as a long term substitute at Glenwood Middle School. He was then hired by the Austintown Local Schools, where he worked as a teacher from 2001-2013.
      During the last three years, Zoccali has served as an assistant principal at Austintown Middle and Austintown Intermediate Schools.
      He and his wife Ally have two children, Anthony (10) and Michael (8).
      “ I am excited about the opportunity to finish my career where it all began back in 2000 and help build upon the ‘Tradition of Excellence’ that is the Boardman Local Schools,” said Zoccali.
      Zoccali said his father inspired him to become a teacher.
      “Growing up I saw the impact my father had on many of his students,” he said. “I saw how much he enjoyed his profession and thought it was something I would like to get into.”
      Zoccali’s will receive an annual salary of $74,190. He replaces Jim Goske, who abruptly resigned last month, shortly after receiving a one-year contract extension from the Boardman School Board. Goske moved to an administrative post with Campbell City Schools.
  Trustees Name Akron Planner To Zoning Post  
  David Jones Added As New Police Officer:   June 30, 2016 Edition  
David Jones
     Boardman Trustees Tom Costello, Larry Moliterno and Brad Calhoun swore-in a new police officer, and also hired a new zoning inspector on Monday night.
      Added to the ranks of the police department was David Jones. He is a graduate of Boardman High School and attended Youngstown State University, where he earned an associate degree. He is currently attending Kent State University and earned his Ohio Police Officer Training Academy certification this month. He served in the U.S. Marine Corps from 2008 to 2014 and received an honorable discharge.
      Approved as Boardman Township’s new Zoning Inspector was Krista Beniston, of Glenmere Dr., Youngstown, She is currently serving employed the city of Akron as a planning coordinator/transportation planner.
      Her official staring date with Boardman Township has yet to be announced.
      Beniston replaces Acting Zoning Inspector Marilyn Kenner, who will assume the post of Superintendent of the Boardman Township Road Department on July 1, replacing Larry Wilson, who retired.
      Beniston earned a bachelor of arts degree in geography/urban and regional planning from Miami University in 2006. In 2008, she earned a masters degree in city and regional planning from The Ohio State University,
      Beniston served on the City of Youngstown Property Maintenance Appeals Board from Feb., 2012 to Apr., 2014.
      In other matters, trustees approved $18,469 for the purchase of furniture for the newly-redesigned 9-1-1 Call Center at the Boardman Police Department; and the purchase of a 2017 Ford Utility Interceptor at a cost of $31,195. The new vehicle will replace a 2003 Ford Expedition.
      Trustees entered into a contract not to exceed $14,170 with the Youngstown Neighborhood Development Corp. to complete a township wide vacant structure survey.
      Also approved was $4,885 for sealcoating the front and back parking lots at the Government Center.
  My Canine Partner: Rookie  
  June 23, 2016 Edition  
     A retired Boardman Police Department canine officer, J.R. Neapolitan, is honoring his former partner in an effort to raise funds to create an Ohio Police Canine Memorial in Amelia, Oh.
      The idea of a memorial is a concept created by Amelia canine police officer Craig Heintzelman.
      “This memorial will give something back to the dogs. They don’t ask to be put in harm’s way, but they do it because they love their handlers,” Heintzelman said.
      Neapolitan served as the Boardman Police Department’s fourth canine officer, following in the footsteps of Mike Hughes, Dean Lysowski and Bob Beam.
      He and his partner, K-9 Rookie, served Boardman Township for little more than three years.
      It was two days after Christmas, Dec. 27, 2002 that Rookie’s watch came to an end.
      Rookie, a dual purpose patrol dog, was trained in apprehension, tracking, searching, drug detection and handler protection.
      On a cold and blustery night, about 10:30 p.m., Rookie was out of the cruiser on a bathroom break at Glenwood Middle School. The cruiser was parked under a functioning overhead light, with its headlights on.
      But fate can be cruel.
      A teenage driver who had not scraped the ice off his windshield, failed to see the cruiser. The teen’s car just missed striking the cruiser, but struck and killed Rookie.
      “Nearly 14 years after he was taken from me, it still hurts. It hurts terribly. I thought Rookie and I still had a lot of good work to do, but it was not to be,” Neapolitan says, adding “By saying his name and telling his story, maybe I can give Rookie that immortality that he so deserves.”
      “I have been told that once in a lifetime, a dog may come into your life and change everything. Rookie was that dog,” Neapolitan says, recallng several arrests that were made after Rookie followed a scent.
      “I have been told that Rookie captured more hearts than bad guys. He was the community’s dog too, and I shared him every chance I got. We did lots of public demonstrations, and I found public speaking became easy, after all, I got to brag about my partner.
      “If a child waved at my cruiser as I rolled through a parking lot, or down a street, you can bet in no time flat I gave that child a ‘Rookie trading card’ in one hand, and the child was petting Rookie with the other hand,” Neapolitan recalls.
      His deep love for his dog is recalled with his favorite story about Rookie.
      One day the mother of a teenaged son with Down Syndrome called the police department and told a shift supervisor her son loved the police and wanted to be a policeman one day. The mom wondered if a policeman could stop by the family’s home and meet the child.
      “Phillip would love to meet a policeman,” the mother informed the sergeant.
      Officer Neapolitan and K-9 Rookie went to the boy’s home, and true to the mom’s words, Phillip was thrilled to meet a policeman. The boy was even more thrilled when he learned he was about to meet a police dog.
      “I gave Phillip very careful instructions on what to do, and went to get Rookie out of our cruiser, and the ‘careful instructions’ went right out the window,” Neapolitan recalls.
      Phillip, who was short and built like a tank, strode confidently over to Rookie, leaned down and wrapped the canine in a bear hug. Not even his handler would hug Rookie like that.
      “In a split second I pictured my career as a handler come crashing down. All I could think of was a special needs child mauled by a police dog.
      “But Rookie never even flinched. he just stood there with this German Shepherd smile, making a new friend. Rookie knew Phillip was special. He just knew,” Neapolitan recalls!
      It’s just not the arrests and chases that makes a police dog special.
      The Ohio Police Dog Memorial, the only one of its kind in the United States, will feature three granite walls with the names of police dogs and their duty station; as well as a bronze statute of a police dog. Estimated cost has been set at about $40,000. To date, about $12,000 has been raised.
      Anyone interested in donating can contact the ohiopolicek9memorial.com for several opportunities for giving; or contact Officer Heintzelman at the Amelia Police Department, 119 West Main St., Amelia, Oh., 45102; or the Ohio Police Dog Memorial offices at 7753 Cox Lane, West Chester, Oh., 45059.
     
      Pictured: FORMER BOARDMAN POLICEMAN J.R. Neapolitan is helping to raise funds for an Ohio Police Dog Memorial in Amelia, Oh. Neapolitan is pictured with his partner, Rookie, who was killed in a traffic accident at Glenwood Middle School on Dec. 27, 2002, after only three years on duty. “Rookie captured more hearts that bad guys,” Neapolitan says.
  Military Bands In Concert For Three Nights At Boardman Park  
  July 5 Event Includes Great Fireworks Show:   June 23, 2016 Edition  
     Boardman Park, the community’s Green Oasis, will continue its patriotic tradition of providing some of the finest military bands in the nation, when it presents three magnificent special concerts this summer.
      On Thurs., June 30, the 122nd Ohio Army National Guard Band will perform at the Maag Theatre beginning at 7:00 p.m. Since 1944, the 122nd Army Band has been a staple of the musical tradition of the United States military in Ohio. As one of the finest National Guard bands in the nation, the 122nd utilizes its resources to perform dozens of missions each year across the state. Citizens, soldiers, and musicians alike all agree that the 122nd Army Band is one of the leading groups of its kind in the nation.
      On Sat., July 2, the Wright Brass Air Force Band of Flight will perform at the Maag Theatre beginning at 7:00 p.m. Wright Brass consists of a standard brass quintet with an added percussionist and features many original arrangements that they have developed into a complete entertainment package designed to appeal to diverse audiences.
      In celebration of Independence Day, the park will present the U.S. Army Field Band and Soldiers Chorus on Tues., July 5 at 8:15 p.m. with fireworks to follow around 9:45 p.m. The Field Band’s members, selected by highly competitive auditions, represent some of the finest musical talent in America. More than five decades as the military’s most traveled musicians have earned them the title, “The Musical Ambassadors of the Army.” The Concert Band and Soldiers’ Chorus presents a powerful and diverse program of marches, overtures, popular music, patriotic selections, and instrumental and vocal solos. Rain location for the July 5 concert only will be at the Boardman High School Performing Arts Center.
      These patriotic concerts are sponsored by Phantom Fireworks, Aqua Ohio, Inc. and Great Garage Doors.
      Food concessions available. Those planning to attend should bring lawn chairs or blankets.
  Alan Weimer, Greg Smith Recipients Of Boardman HS Alumni Awards  
  June 23, 2016 Edition  
     The Officers and Council of the Boardman High School Alumni Association announce the selections for the 7th annual Boardman High School Distinguished Alumni Award.
      They are Alan Weimer and Greg Smith. The awards were handed out a Boardman High School awards assembly in May.
      Alan Weimer, Class of 1981
      Weimer was active at BHS in boys service organizations, chess, German, and science clubs, student senate, class officer, National Honor Society and four years of baseball. He graduated from University of Cincinnati summa cum laude with a BS in chemical engineering and earned his master and doctorate degrees from the University of Colorado.
      Weimer has served as an H.T. Sears Memorial professor of chemical engineering at the University of Colorado since 2006. Prior to this, he worked for the Dow Chemical Co. for 16 years.
      Weimer is a world-renowned researcher, inventor and well-respected expert in chemical engineering. His distinguished accolades include 175 published manuscripts, 32 US patents issued and eight patents pending, and 133 invited presentations.
      His is co-founder of ALD Nanosolutions, Inc.
      In addition to his professional duties, Weimer has organized community efforts in his hometown, managed girls softball and boys baseball teams and lead outreach activities in science classes at local schools.
      Greg Smith, Class of 1984
      At BHS, Smith was active in the Spartan Marching Band and orchestra where he served as president, was a rifle team co-captain, member of the National Honor Society and track and field team. After graduation, Greg continued to Miami University and earned a bachelor’s degree in marketing. In 2009, he received his master’s degree in Strengths Leadership from the University of Nebraska and is currently pursuing his doctorate of leadership at Regent University.
      Smith is chairman of the board of Compco and CEO of Strength Partnership. As a leadership specialist, he has created a free online leadership education program. He also has created Vital Task Management, soon to be released, which is an integrated system for hiring, managing and evaluating people from a positive psychology perspective.
      Smith often sponsors programs that help mentor others through the Emerging Leaders Club at BHS, YMCA, YWCA and Empowering Women. In addition, he and his family have generously contributed and/or raised funds for the Center for Performing Arts, the new Spartan Stadium, Boardman Band, Special Olympics, United Way, Penguin Club, Boardman Police training, Bruce Lee Foundation.
      A copy of their award plague will be placed on the Alumni Wall outside of the BHS office. Applications for the 2017 Distinguished Alumni Award will be available in the fall at boardmanalumni.org or email boardmanalumni@gmail.com to request an application.
  LEGAL NOTICE  
  June 16, 2016 Edition  
     NOTICE TO BIDDERS
      NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN THAT SEALED BIDS WILL BE RECEIVED BY THE BOARDMAN TOWNSHIP TRUSTEES AT THE OFFICE OF THE FISCAL OFFICER, WILLIAM D. LEICHT, BOARDMAN TOWNSHIP GOVERNMENT CENTER, 8299 MARKET STREET, BOARDMAN, OHIO, UNTIL 12 O’CLOCK NOON, MONDAY, JUNE 27, 2016 AND READ ALOUD THE SAME DAY AT 5:30 PM AT THE BOARDMAN TOWNSHIP TRUSTEES MEETING WHICH WILL BE HELD AT THE BOARDMAN TOWNSHIP GOVERNMENT CENTER 8299 MARKET STREET, BOARDMAN, OHIO, FOR RESURFACING WORK ON THE ATTACHED STREETS IN AUSTINTOWN TOWNSHIP, BOARDMAN TOWNSHIP AND CANFIELD TOWNSHIP.
      A CERTIFIED CHECK OR A BID BOND IN THE AMOUNT OF 10% OF THE TOTAL BID MUST ACCCOMPANY EACH BID AND BE MADE PAYABLE TO THE “BOARDMAN TOWNSHIP TRUSTEES”, TO BE HELD UNTIL AN AGREEMENT IS ENETERED INTO AND PERFORMANCE BOND IS ACCEPTED BY THE BOARD OF TRUSTEES.
      ALL MATERIALS USED MUST BE THE STANDARDS OF THE STATE OF OHIO, AND SUPPLIERS AND BIDDERS MUST BE PREQUALIFIED BY THE STATE OF OHIO AND MUST SUBMIT A COPY OF SAID LICENSE WITH BID BOND.
      SPECIFICATIONS AND BIDDING REQUIREMENTS MAY BE OBTAINED AT THE BOARDMAN TOWNSHIPS FISCAL OFFICERS’ OFFICE DURING REGULAR BUSINESS HOURS OF 8:00 AM TO 4:00 PM MONDAY THROUGH FRIDAY. ALL BIDDERS MUST SIGN FOR RECEIPT OF BID PACKAGE AND WILL BE ASSIGNED A BIDDERS NUMBER WHICH MUST BE INDICATED ON THE SUBMITTAL. ALL ENVELOPES MUST BE MARKED “2016 AUSTINTOWN TOWNSHIP, BOARDMAN TOWNSHIP AND CANFIELD TOWNSHIP RESURFACING PROGRAM.
      THE BOARD OF TRUSTEES RESERVES THE RIGHT TO REJECT ANY AND OR ALL BIDS, TO WAIVE ANY IRREGULARITIES THEREIN, AND TO MAKE THE AWARD IN ANY MANNER DEEMED TO BE IN THE BEST INTEREST OF AUSTINTOWN, BOARDMAN AND CANFIELD TOWNSHIPS.
      AUSTINTOWN TOWNSHIP TRUSTEES
      LAURA L. WOLFE, FISCAL OFFICER
      BOARDMAN TOWNSHIP TRUSTEES
      WILLIAM D. LEICHT, FISCAL OFFICER
      CANFIELD TOWNSHIP TRUSTEES
      CARMEN HEASLEY, FISCAL OFFICER
  Flo Hosa Dougherty’s Art At The Butler, July 10-Aug. 28  
  June 16, 2016 Edition  
     Flo Hosa Dougherty, former resident and Boardman High School teacher, will be featured at the Butler Institute of American Art with a retrospective show of 46 paintings, July 10-Aug. 28. A special opening reception will be held Sun., July 17, from 1:00 p.m. to 3:00 p.m., and the public is invited.
      Hosa Dougherty’s fine art and fun art range in styles from realism to non-objective in oil, acrylic, watercolor, gouache and mixed media. Regions of Ohio and scenes of New Mexico where she now resides are represented.
      After a 30 year teaching career, mostly at Boardman High School as the art department chairperson, students will remember her as the yearbook advisor and art club advisor, and the founder of the Art Honor Society. She was active in the community and promoted area and state-related student competitions and events.
      Hosa Dougherty founded and has managed her Blue Gate Fine Art Gallery in downtown Las Cruces, New Mexico for ten years and recently consolidated it with her home studio. She continues to participate in juried shows with success including the New Mexico Governor’s Invitational and recently illustrated a number of books. Her daughter, Amy Hosa, and she continue to have combined exhibits.
      Works in the retrospective are for sale by contacting Hosa Daugherty at 575-523-2950 or bluegateflodoc@aol.com. Her website is bluegatefineart.com
     
      Pictured: Flo Hosa Dougherty pictured with her series, Play Ball, a tribute to former Boardman High School graduate and former major League pitcher, Dave Dravecky; and also to the memory of her father’s baseball playing days.
  LEGAL NOTICE  
  June 9, 2016 Edition  
     PUBLIC NOTICE
      EMPLOYMENT OPPORTUNITY
      Custodian
      Boardman Township
      Boardman Township, Mahoning County Ohio 8299 Market St, Boardman Ohio 44512 is now accepting applications for two Part-Time Custodians. For a list of qualifications and position description please visit www.Boardmantownship.com under Administration – HR Related. This is AFSCME union positon pay in starts at 9.36hr. Applications and position description are also available at Township Government Center. Please mail any applications to the address listed above to the Attn: Jason Loree Township Administrator. To email an application please send them to jloree@boardmantwp.com Deadline for applications are 3:00 pm Friday June 10th 2016. Any questions please call Jason Loree at 330-726-4144. Ext. 61817. Boardman Township is an Equal Opportunity Employer.
  LEGAL NOTICE  
  June 9, 2016 Edition  
     NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING
      The Boardman Township Board of Appeals shall hold a Public Hearing on Tuesday, June 21, 2016 at 7:00 PM at the Boardman Township Government Center, 8299 Market Street, Boardman Township, Ohio 44512, for consideration of the following cases:
      APPEAL CASE AC-2016-18
      Thelma McGann, 398 Ewing Road, Boardman, Ohio 44512, property owner, requests a variance for the terms of the Boardman Township Zoning Resolution, effective May 29, 2012, Article VII, Residence R-2 Districts, C. Private Garages and Other Out-Buildings, in order to place a shed 9.9 feet from side street property line seeking relief from the side street property line setback of 16 feet. The property is further known as Lot 5, Cranberry Village Plat 3, Parcel Number 29-068-0-183.00-0. Said property is zoned Residential R-2, in Boardman Township, Mahoning County, State of Ohio.
      APPEAL CASE AC-2016-19
      Shawn Eddy, 2214 S. Linden Avenue, Alliance, Ohio 44601, agent for Garrett Pinter, requests a conditional use variance for the terms of the Boardman Township Zoning Resolution, effective May 29, 2012, Article XVI Administration, Section I Conditional Use Regulations to allow for the operation of an adult arcade game room at 1235 Boardman Canfield Road. The property is further knows as Lot 5, Huntington Commons Plat 5, Parcel Number 29-115-0-072.02-0. Said property is zoned Commercial, in Boardman Township, Mahoning County, State of Ohio.
      APPEAL CASE AC-2016-20
      Ronald D’Alesandro, dba Mardale Properties LLC, 770 Boardman Poland Road, Boardman, Ohio 44512, property owner, requests a variance from the terms of the Boardman Township Zoning Resolution, effective May 29, 2012, Article XII, Special Provisions, in order to construct additional signage proposed to be located at 770 Boardman Poland Road. Specifically, property owner requests a variance form Article XII, Special Provisions, Section H Signs and Billboard, Letter D, Number 3, in order to construct a sign at the Bridgewood Entrance and an additional sign at the Boardman Poland Entrance to his property, seeking relief from the limitation of one sign per parcel. The property is further known as Lot 2 of the D’Alesandro Plat 2, Parcel Number 29-017-0-174.00-0, Lot 1 of the Replat of Lot 1 Master Plan Builder Plat 1, Parcel Number 29-017-0-180.00-0, and Lot 3 of the Replat of Lot 1 Master Plan Builder Plat 1, Parcel Number 29-017-0-178.01-0. Said property is zoned Commercial, in Boardman Township, Mahoning County, State of Ohio
      APPEAL CASE AC-2016-21
      Sudon Bros, Inc., agent for David Price, 1616 E. Liberty Street, Girard, Ohio 44420, requests a variance from the terms of the Boardman Township Zoning Resolution, effective May 29, 2012, Article V, Residence R-1 Districts, B. Yard, Area and Height Provisions, in order to construct a house at the corner of Eagle Trace and Fox Hollow. Specifically, property owner requests a variance to construct a house ten feet two inches from the property line seeking relief from the twenty foot setback from the property line of Fox Hollow. The property is further known as Lot 245, Huntington Woods Plat 11, Parcel Number 29-116-0-145.00-0. Said property is zoned Commercial, in Boardman Township, Mahoning County, State of Ohio.
      Text and maps of the request ay be viewed at the Boardman Township Zoning Office, 8299 Market Street, Boardman, Ohio 44512 Monday through Friday, between the hours of 8:00 AM and 4:00 PM, until time of hearing.
      Atty. John F. Shultz, Chairman
      Boardman Township Board of Appeals
      Marilyn Sferra Kenner, P.E.
      Assistant Zoning Inspector
  Frank Lazzeri Recognized  
  At Boardman Township's Community Day:   June 9, 2016 Edition  
     photo/John A. Darnell jr.
       BOARDMAN LOCAL SCHOOL SUPERINTENDENT FRANK LAZZERI, at right, was recognized at Boardman Township’s annual Community Day celebration last week. Lazzeri will retire at the end of June after 44 years of employment with the Boardman Local Schools, including servicing as superintendent since 2004. At left is Boardman Township Trustee Brad Calhoun.
  LEGAL NOTICE  
  June 9, 2016 Edition  
     PUBLIC NOTICE
      EMPLOYMENT OPPORTUNITY
      Maintenance Worker
      Boardman Township
      Boardman Township, Mahoning County Ohio 8299 Market St, Boardman Ohio 44512 is now accepting applications for Full-Time Maintenance Worker. For a list of qualifications and position description please visit www.Boardmantownship.com under Administration – HR Related. This is AFSCME union positon pay in starts at 15.03hr other benefits included. Applications and position description are also available at Township Government Center. Please mail any applications to the address listed above to the Attn: Jason Loree Township Administrator. To email an application please send them to jloree@boardmantwp.com Deadline for applications are 3:00 pm Friday June 10th 2016. Any questions please call Jason Loree at 330-726-4144. Ext. 61817. Boardman Township is an Equal Opportunity Employer.
  Canfield Republican Women Earn Diamond Achievement Award  
  June 9, 2016 Edition  
      The Ohio Federation of Republican Women awarded the Canfield Republican Women’s Club with the Diamond Achievement Award at their Spring Conference on May 21, 2016.
      The CRWC earned the top award from the State by participating in fundraisers that allowed them to contribute funds to Republican candidates in addition to the community.
      The CRWC held a glove and hat drive for Salvation Army, a book drive for Goodwill, a food drive for Canfield Operation Blessing, donated to AMVETS, American Legion, Blue Star Mothers, YSU Veteran’s Center and recently began a YSU ROTC Scholarship for a female cadet.
      Attending the Conference from the CRWC were Holly Deibel and Sharon Henry.
      Guest speakers included Ohio Secretary of State Jon Husted who spoke about his experience as Secretary of State in the context of important and decisive elections.
      Chris McNulty, Chair of the Republican National Committee’s Committee on Convention Arrangements, gave the group insights into the planning and his role in preparation for the upcoming 2016 Republican National Committee’s Convention to be held in Cleveland.
      Mrs. Jane Portman presented an update on Senator Rob Portman’s campaign and the status of the 2016 election. She spoke about the volunteer opportunities that exist and the super Saturday activities occurring.
      Through its “Caring for America” program, the OFRW donated $900 to Operation Buckeye, a non-profit veteran’s service organization.
      If you are interested in attending a CRWC event or joining, please contact Holly Deibel at crwcmail@gmail.com or call 330-531-0120 or find us on Facebook.
      Pictured: CRWC President Holly Deibel (left) and OFRW President Lyn Bliss display the top award from the State, the Diamond Achievement Award, presented to the CRWC in May.
  LEGAL NOTICE  
  June 2, 2016 Edition  
     LEGAL NOTICE
      The Board of Trustees of Boardman Township shall conduct a Public Hearing on the following amendments to the Boardman Township Zoning Resolution and Township Zoning Map on Monday, June 13, 2016 at 5:30 PM in the Marie P. DeBartolo Meeting Room, Boardman Township Government Center, 8299 Market Street, Boardman, Ohio, 44512. Texts and map of the proposed changes may be viewed in the Zoning Office, same address, between the hours of 8:00 A.M. and 4:00 P.M. Monday through Friday, until the time of the Hearing.
      This is the final hearing in determination of this case. The Board shall act either immediately or within twenty (20) days of the hearing date.
      AMENDMENT A-2016-03
      Pursuant to Article XVI, Section F, Part a, Number 1 of the Boardman Township Zoning Resolution, as amended through May 29, 2012, concerning the initiation of amendments to the Township Zoning Resolution, the Board of Trustees of Boardman Township find it necessary to initiate hearings to amend the Boardman Township Zoning Resolution and Township Zoning Map to reclassify and rezone the following 175 parcels of real property from Residential R-2 Districts to Residential R-1 Districts:
      44 Parcels along Ridgewood Drive
      21 Parcels along Gilbert Drive
      18 Parcels along Stillson Place
      23 Parcels along Withers Drive
      21 Parcels along Griswold Drive
      29 Parcels along Brainard Drive
      26 Parcels along Wolcott Drive
      The vacated portion of Shale Drive on Withers Drive
      All properties are located in Boardman Township, Mahoning County, State of Ohio
      AMENDMENT A-2016-04
      Pursuant to Article XVI, Section F, Part a, Number 1 of the Boardman Township Zoning Resolution, as amended through May 29, 2012, concerning the initiation of amendments to the Township Zoning Resolution, the Board of Trustees of Boardman Township find it necessary to initiate hearings to amend the Boardman Township Zoning Resolution and Township zoning Map to reclassify and rezone the following 85 parcels of real property from Residential R-2 Districts to Residential R-1 Districts:
      44 Parcels along South Cadillac Drive
      41 Parcels along North Cadillac Drive
      All properties are located in Boardman Township, Mahoning County, State of Ohio.
      Larry P. Moliterno, Chair
      Board of Trustees, Boardman Township
      Marilyn Sferra Kenner, P.E.,
      Assistant Zoning Inspector
  Mannozzi 37th At World 50k Championships In Rome  
  June 2, 2016 Edition  
     Boardman native Michael Mannozzi (Erskine Ave.) earned his ticket to Rome to compete in the World Race Walking Team Championships on Feb. 21 in Santee, Cal. when he finished third at the USA Track and Field Olympic Trials for the 50k Race Walk, bettering the qualifying time of 4 hours and 35 minutes. This was Mannozzi’s 5th time donning the red, white and blue as a member of the USA national team.
      The trip was also something of a homecoming for Mannozzi, as his family had emigrated from Le Marche, Italy. One of his highlights was a visit to Ristorante Mannozzi in Rome, a restaurant owned by distant cousins. Mannozzi and his teammates were also part of a Papal Audience during their visit to the Vatican.
      Mannozzi was one 21 Americans named to the USA Team and one of two from Ohio, the other being Cameron Haught, a junior, out of the Dayton area.
      Five races took place over the weekend of May 7-8 involving the best race walkers in the world.
      Five Americans represented the USA in the 50k (31.1 miles) race; and this marked the first time a woman competed at the 50k in a worldwide competition. Erin Taylor-Talcott, of Oswego, New York has been pushing for gender parity in race walking. The 50k is still a men only event at the World Track and Field Championships and Olympic Games.
      The Rome 50k event included multiple world and Olympic champions within the 65 starters.
      The event started in front of the Arch of Alexander and finished in a track stadium named Terme di Caracalla . This event was the final opportunity for Nick Christie (El Cajon, Cal.) and Mannozzi to chase the Olympic qualifying standard.
      Christie was on pace through 30k, before slowing with stomach issues. He finished 35th in a time of 4:24.55 and was followed by Steven Washburn ( a dual citizen from Sydney, Australia) in 4:28.20 and 36th place. Mannozzi was 37th overall and the third American and final point scorer for the US team in 4:39.33. Taylor-Talcott finished 40th in 4:51.08 and Ian Whatley of Greer, South Carolina, the eldest competitor in the competition, suffered a disqualification on his 56th birthday. The USA 50k team finished 7th in the world event.
      Mannozzi will also compete at the 20k Olympic Trials in Salem, Ore. on June 30.
      Mannozzi is grateful to his many sponsors and supporters who have helped his athletic progress. Some local sponsors are: Achilles Running Shop, Outdoor Recreational Equipment, Pizza Joes (Mario LaMarca), Advanced Chiropractic, Classic Tent and Party Rental, and Youngstown State University for the use of the WATT’s facility as well as many supporters throughout the Valley.
  YMCA Golf Outing July 9 On Course For A Cause  
  June 2, 2016 Edition  
      The YMCA of Youngstown will hold a golf outing ‘On Course For A Cause’ on Sat., July 9 at Knoll Run Golf Course, 1421 Struthers Coitsville Rd., Lowellville. Funds raised are specifically earmarked for the LIVESTRONG at the YMCA cancer survivor program.
      The format for the golf outing will be a scramble, with registration beginning at 7:00 a.m. and a shotgun start at 8:00 a.m. Dinner is served at 1:00 p.m.
      Registration will include: 18 holes of golf, golf cart rental, breakfast spnosored by Dunkin Donuts and the White family, lunch on the course, golfer gift, dinnersponsored by Texas Roadhouse, individual & team prizes and door prize tickets. Game Day Packages will be available for purchase.
      Sponsorship information is as follows: Presenting sponsor, $2500; Event sponsor, $1400; Beverage cart sponsor, $300; Tee sponsor, $100; Golf foursome, $300; and Individual golfer to be placed in a foursome, $75. Additional ways to participate are: Dinner only cost is $25; Make a donation, or donate a prize for the event.
      The 2016 Title Sponsors include, Knoll Run Golf Course, Core Health & Fitness, Prout Boiler, Buckeye Lawn Service and Huntington.
      Registration deadline is July 1 and space is limited to 32 teams. For a registration form go to youngstownymca.org. For more information contact Beth Scheller at 330-480-5651.
  17th Muransky Bass Classic Set June 4 On Evans And Pine Lakes  
  June 2, 2016 Edition  
     The 17th annual Muransky Companies Bass Classic, hosted by Aqua Ohio, and benefiting the United Way of Youngstown and the Mahoning Valley, will be held on Sat., June 4 at Evans and Pine Lakes. 57 teams of professional bass anglers and their amateur partners will compete for cash and prizes on the bass-filled reservoirs.
      The tournament is introducing a new weighing system patterned after Major League Fishing. Each Pro/Am team will be joined by a volunteer judge who will weigh every eligible Bass, and then release it back into the waters. All the weight will be recorded on a web based site created special for the Muransky Companies Bass Classic. Prizes will be awarded for total weight and big bass following the end of the tournament 2:30pm.
      While the anglers are on the water, kids are invited to the Fin Feather Fur Fish and Fun event, which will take place at Evans Lake from 11:00am-1:00pm. This part of the event is open to the public. The first two hundred kids will receive food and goodie bags sponsored by Fin, Feather, and Fur (12 and under). Kids are permitted to fish along the shore, but must bring their own equipment
  LEGAL NOTICE  
  May 26, 2016 Edition  
     PUBLIC NOTICE
      EMPLOYMENT OPPORTUNITY
      Maintenance Worker
      Boardman Township
      Boardman Township, Mahoning County Ohio 8299 Market St, Boardman Ohio 44512 is now accepting applications for Full-Time Maintenance Worker. For a list of qualifications and position description please visit www.Boardmantownship.com under Administration – HR Related. This is AFSCME union positon pay in starts at 15.03hr other benefits included. Applications and position description are also available at Township Government Center. Please mail any applications to the address listed above to the Attn: Jason Loree Township Administrator. To email an application please send them to jloree@boardmantwp.com Deadline for applications are 3:00 pm Friday June 10th 2016. Any questions please call Jason Loree at 330-726-4144. Ext. 61817. Boardman Township is an Equal Opportunity Employer.
  LEGAL NOTICE  
  May 26, 2016 Edition  
     PUBLIC NOTICE
      EMPLOYMENT OPPORTUNITY
      Custodian
      Boardman Township
      Boardman Township, Mahoning County Ohio 8299 Market St, Boardman Ohio 44512 is now accepting applications for two Part-Time Custodians. For a list of qualifications and position description please visit www.Boardmantownship.com under Administration – HR Related. This is AFSCME union positon pay in starts at 9.36hr. Applications and position description are also available at Township Government Center. Please mail any applications to the address listed above to the Attn: Jason Loree Township Administrator. To email an application please send them to jloree@boardmantwp.com Deadline for applications are 3:00 pm Friday June 10th 2016. Any questions please call Jason Loree at 330-726-4144. Ext. 61817. Boardman Township is an Equal Opportunity Employer.
  Memorial Day Speaker Witness To United States Government’s Most Significant Radioactive Disaster  
  May 26, 2016 Edition  
Tom Petzinger
      A little more than 62 years ago, on Mar. 1, 1954, the United States detonated a dry fuel hydrogen bomb in the Marshall Islands of the Pacific Ocean during a secret test that was code-named “Castle Bravo.”
      The explosion was 15 times more powerful than calculated (equivalent to 15 million tons of dynamite) and became known as the most significant accidental radioactive contamination ever caused by the United States.
      Beyond the atolls of the Marshall Islands, traces of radioactive material were discovered in Australia, India, Japan, the United States and Europe. Nuclear fallout spread over roughly 7,000 square miles.
      The mushroom cloud that formed after the detonation grew to nearly four-and-a-half miles wide and reached a height of 130,000 feet six minutes. The crater left behind has a diameter of 6,510 feet and a depth of 250 feet.
      Watching the blast from a distance of just 20 miles, was longtime Boardman resident Thomas Petzinger, of Tanglewood Dr., the Grand Marshal and featured speaker at this year’112th annual Boardman Township Memorial Day observances.
      He had spent the days before the blast in upwards of 200 ft. of water around the Bikini Atoll, setting up measuring devices that monitored the blast. Back in the day when Petzinger served in the navy, there was no scuba equipment. Divers donned ‘hard hat’ gear that weighed upwards of 200 lbs., while they made their dives.
      Admittedly still ‘residually’ radioactive today, Petzinger says he is lucky to be alive.
      “Years after the blast, a lot of my shipmates had blood diseases, and many got cancer,” Petzinger notes, adding “But I didn’t. Luck saved me”
      Almost nonchalantly, Petzinger, now 86-years-old, says a couple of weeks after the blast, his ship pulled into Pearl Harbor for decontamination.
      “We didn’t think anything about it, and all of my shipmates stayed on-board while the decontamination work was completed,” he recalled this week.
      During his four-year stint in the active navy, Petzinger observed four h-bomb explosions.
      Today, he speaks not of their power, but of their beauty.
      “It was beautiful, magnificent and gorgeous. The colors that radiated from the blast were amazing,” he recalled this week.
      Born in Canton, Oh., Petzinger is a 1952 graduate and current member of the Board of Trustees of Mount Union College, where he was a track team captain and undefeated sprint champion during his junior and senior years.
      Upon graduation from college, Petzinger attended Naval Officer’s Candidate School in July, 1952 in Newport, Rhode Island, where he entered Deep Sea Diving School.
      Upon graduation, he was assigned to USS Mender salvage ship and during his tour of duty he helped clean Inchon Bay post Korean War, then worked at Bikini Atoll where he built underwater moorings for hydrogen atomic bomb testing.
      After regular duty, Petzinger served 25 years in the Naval Reserves, retiring as a captain.
      Locally, he is best-known as the owner of Pan Atlas Travel, where he worked until 2001.
      The 112th annual Boardman Memorial Day observances open at 10:00 a.m. on Mon., May 30 with a parade from Center Middle School to Boardman Park. Petzinger’s address is expected to get underway about 11:00 a.m.
     
      PICTURED: ENCAPSULATED IN A 200-lb. diving suit, Tom Petzinger prepares for a dive in 1954 to set instruments in the Marshall Islands that measured the force of hydrogen atomic bomb tests.
  Park’s Adventure Day Camp Set For June 13 - Aug. 19  
  May 26, 2016 Edition  
      The school year is coming to an end and what better way to keep kids active and engaged than to register them for Boardman Park’s Adventure Day Camp.
      The goal of the camp is to offer young minds the opportunity to explore their imaginations, discover physical fitness, expand knowledge of sports and develop a growing sense of adventure through diverse activities. The curriculum is designed to be age appropriate, educational and fun as the children participate in a daily schedule of Arts and Crafts, Team Building, Creative Arts, Science, and Sports.
      Adventure Day Camp will run for ten weeks, June 13 through August 19. Camp hours are Monday thru Friday, 9:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. for children who have completed kindergarten thru sixth grade. Arrangements can be made for campers who come early, or who need to be picked-up late, for additional charge.
      Children can register for one week or all ten weeks by going to www.boardmanparkcamp.com. Discounts will be given for Early Bird enrollment, prior to June 6. Also, Boardman resident and multi-sibling family discounts will be offered when application is completed.
      Camp Scholarships are available because of the generous donations from Making Kids Count, Farmers National Bank, Farmers Trust and Boardman Rotary Club. Scholarship applications can be found online at www.boardmanparkcamp.com.
      For additional information, contact Karen at 330-965-0482, or visit the Camp website at www.boardmanparkcamp.com.
  OPEN YOUR BIBLE - Clarity  
  May 26, 2016 Edition  
      True liberty and freedom is living as we should, not as we want. The Bible is clear about how we should live. But not everyone agrees with Biblical instruction. Early last week a “decree” went out from the White House for schools to make restrooms and locker rooms available for transgender students. The LGBT community is pushing forward its agenda with lightning speed. Any student can visit any restroom or locker room at any time, depending on the gender identity they are feeling at any moment.
      When I heard that a “decree” was issued from the White House, my first reaction was “when did we become an empire run by an Emperor like Julius Caesar, wielding supreme power?” Within an hour, the news feeds toned down the word “decree” to “directive” in order to make it more palatable for us common folk. But the blackmail was still in force by holding back federal money to non-compliant schools.
      At Fuller Theological Seminary, a group known as OneTable is advancing the LGBT community. In one of their seminars they led with the phrase, “The word of God is clear…until it’s not.” This leaves a gaping hole for perverting the Word of God.
      Open your Bible to 2 Peter 2:17-19. Scripture reads, “These people are springs without water, mists driven by a whirlwind. The gloom of darkness has been reserved for them. For uttering bombastic, empty words, they seduce, by fleshly desires and debauchery, people who have barely escaped from those who live in error. They promise them freedom, but they themselves are slaves of corruption, since people are enslaved to whatever defeats them.” A companion verse is in Romans 6:16. It reads, “Do you not know that if you offer yourselves to someone as obedient slaves, you are slaves of that one you obey—either of sin leading to death or of obedience leading to righteousness?”
      I believe the Bible is clear in its instruction concerning righteousness and sin. When “decrees” are issued against the Word of God, we must decide who we will obey. I always choose God and His Word. I am free to live as I should, and that is in accordance with Biblical instruction, not by an Emperor’s decree. Be fearless Christian and do what is right. Obey the Lord.
      Open Your Bible is written every week by
      Pastor Larry Johnson, who serves as a chaplain
      for the Boardman Police Department.
      Comments can be directed to
      Chaplain 2006-ministry@yahoo.com
  LEGAL NOTICE  
  May 5, 2016 Edition  
     Boardman Township Trustees
      Mahoning County, Ohio
      Home Rule Resolution No. 16-04-11-08
      Home Rule Resolution Adopting and Codifying Requirements for Holding Special Events
      Second Reading
      The Board of Trustees of Boardman Township, Mahoning County, Ohio met in Regular Session at the Boardman Township Government Center on the 22nd day of April, 2016, at 3:30 p.m. with the following members present: Thomas P. Costello, Brad Calhoun, Larry Moliterno.
      Moved by Mr. Calhoun, seconded by Mr. Costello to approve and adopt Home Rule Resolution 16-04-11-08, to be effective 30 days from the date of adoption, in accordance with Ohio Revised Code Section 504.10 and publication as follows:
      WHEREAS, the Boardman Township Board of Trustees adopted a Limited Home Rule government in accordance with Ohio Revised Code Section 504.01 by Resolution duly adopted and approved October 12, 1999;
      WHEREAS, Boardman Township constitutes an Urban Township with Limited Home Rule Authority as provided in the Ohio Revised Code Section 504.01, vested with the powers rights, and immunities granted therein;
      WHEREAS, Boardman Township currently does not have any mechanism for regulating large-scale, outdoor events that attract visitors for special recreational, entertainment, charitable, or commercial events;
      WHEREAS, Boardman Township desires to create such a mechanism for regulating the dates, times, location, and conditions under which these special events are conducted within the Township and in a manner which is necessary for the general health, safety and welfare of the general public;
      WHEREAS, as a limited home-rule township under Ohio Revised Code Chapter 504, Boardman Township has the power to adopt and enforce within the unincorporated area of the township local police, sanitary, and other similar regulations that are not in conflict with general laws or otherwise prohibited by Section 504.04(B);
      WHEREAS, the Boardman Township Board of Trustees finds that establishing a special events permit is really and substantially related to the public health, safety, morals, or general welfare of the public; and
      WHEREAS, the Boardman Township Board of Trustees finds and determines that all formal actions of this Board concerning and relating to passage of this resolution were taken in an open meeting of this Board and that all deliberations of this Board and of any of its committees that resulted in such formal action were taken in meetings open to the public and in compliance with all legal requirements, including Ohio Revised Code Section 121.22.
      NOW THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED, THAT THE FOLLOWING REGULATIONS BE AND HEREBY ARE APPROVED AND ADOPTED, AS AMENDED, TO BE EFFECTIVE 30 DAYS FROM THE DATE OF SECOND READING, PUBLICATION AND CODIFICATION:
      ARTICLE I. GENERAL PROVISIONS
      Section 1: Purpose
      The purpose of this Resolution is to provide Boardman Township with a mechanism for regulating the dates, times, location, and conditions under which permittees are authorized to conduct special recreational, entertainment, charitable, or commercial events for individuals to congregate or assemble outdoors for a single purpose within Boardman Township in a manner consistent with maintaining the public health, safety, and welfare of its residents and the visitors who are attracted to Boardman Township for such special events. Boardman Township also wants to ensure that adequate and appropriate emergency provisions or other township support is available, if needed. Nothing in this Resolution is intended to prohibit, restrict, or delay any person, group, or organization from any activity otherwise permitted by law.
      Section 2: Scope
      This Resolution does not apply to (A) organized school-related programs, sporting events, and activities; (B) other public programs, activities, parades, or events authorized by the Board of Township Trustees or the Chief of Police or his or her designated representative, whether or not on public property; (C) programs, events, and activities at the Boardman Township Park that are organized or approved by the Boardman Township Park District; or (D) programs, events, and activities that are organized or approved by the Mill Creek Metropolitan Park District on property owned by it. This Resolution does not supersede any other applicable federal, state, or local rules or regulations.
      Section 3: Definitions
       (A) “Special Event” means any outdoor event, sponsored by an individual, business, or other entity or organization intended primarily for recreational, entertainment, charitable, or commercial purposes to be held within the jurisdiction of Boardman Township which does not block off any street, public sidewalk, alley, or highway area. The Chief of Police must approve any temporary closure of any street, public sidewalk, alley, or highway area separately from the Special Event Permit process. This definition includes that portion of an “indoor event” that contemporaneously occurs at an adjacent outdoor space. A “Special Event” may, but does not have to, include the cordoning off of areas in a parking lot to create a space where people are intended to gather.
       (B) “Applicant” means the individual, corporation, partnership, or other entity or organization sponsoring the proposed Special Event and who is responsible for all aspects of the Special Event.
       (C) “Special Event Permit” means a permit duly issued in accordance with this Resolution for the conduct of a Special Event containing such terms and conditions which the Chief of Police finds necessary to conduct the Special Event in a manner which is consistent with maintaining public health, safety, and welfare of Boardman Township residents and visitors who are attracted to Boardman Township for such special recreational, entertainment, charitable, or commercial events.
       (D) “Block party” means a party organized by and for the benefit of the residents of a residential block or neighborhood on a temporarily-closed road or street.
       (E) “Holder” means an Applicant who has received a Special Events Permit.
      ARTICLE II. SPECIAL EVENTS PERMIT
      Section 1: Special Events Permit Required
      No person, corporation, partnership, or other entity or organization may conduct a Special Event without a Special Events Permit.
      Section 2: Review by the Chief of Police
      The Chief of Police or his or her designee will review all Special Events applications.
      Section 3: Special Events Permit Application
      An Applicant must submit a Special Events Permit Application to the Chief of Police at least 14 days before the date of the Special Event. The application must be on a form provided by the Township that includes, at a minimum, the following information:
       (A) name, address, and telephone number of the Applicant;
       (B) date(s) and times of the Special Event;
       (C) description of the Special Event, including any name that the Applicant will use to advertise the Special Event;
       (D) address or location where the Special Event will take place;
       (E) estimated number of people attending the Special Event;
       (F) plan for dealing with traffic, parking, crowd control, and sanitation and refuse services;
       (G) anticipated need for Township-related services for the Special Event;
       (H) evidence of financial and personnel-related capability to run the Special Event, including, but not limited to, the ability to provide security personnel, age verification, liability insurance, and first aid;
       (I) name, address, telephone number, and cellphone number of the individual who will be present at the Special Event and will be responsible for the overall operation of the Special Event, if not the Applicant.
      Section 4: Fee
      An Applicant must pay a $20 fee when submitting a Special Events Permit Application to cover the costs of reviewing, processing, and enforcing this resolution. There is no fee for a block party or a Special Events sponsored by a house of worship on its premises.
      Section 5: Criteria for Issuing a Special Events Permit
       (A) In considering whether to issue a Special Events Permit, the Chief of Police shall not issue a permit when:
        (1) the proposed Special Event is scheduled to begin earlier than 5:00 pm on a weekday;
        (2) the proposed Special Event is scheduled to end later than 11:00 pm on any day; or
        (3) the proposed Special Event is to take place in property zoned other than Commercial, except this subprovision does not apply to a block party or a Special Event sponsored by a house of worship on its premises.
       (B) In considering whether to issue a Special Events Permit, the Chief of Police may not issue a permit when:
        (1) the Chief of Police determines the proposed Special Event cannot be conducted in the location proposed without endangering the public, disturbing the peace, threatening public health, or damaging private or public property. The Chief of Police may consider the following criteria when making a determination under this section:
        (a) whether the Applicant has provided adequate parking and traffic control for the Special Event, including sufficient parking spaces near the Special Event have been made available to the Applicant by the property owner to accommodate the number of vehicles reasonably expected for the estimated number of people attending the Special Event.
        (b) whether the Applicant has provided adequate crowd control and security for the Special Event.
        (c) whether the Applicant has adequate liability insurance.
        (d) whether the proposed Special Event poses a burden on Township-related services.
        (e) whether the proposed Special Event will have an undue adverse effect on neighboring properties due to noise, litter, or other negative features, and whether the Applicant has a plan to address them. While it may be presumed that a proposed Special Event that otherwise complies with the provisions of this Section will not have an undue adverse effect on neighboring properties, but evidence that prior Special Events conducted by the Applicant or on the same premises as the proposed Special Event has had an undue adverse effect on neighboring properties is sufficient to rebut this presumption.
        (f) whether the Applicant has adequate financial ability and staff to conduct the Special Event satisfactorily.
        (g) whether the application contains any misrepresentation of material facts.
       (2) the Applicant has previously
        (a) violated any provision of this Resolution; or
        (b) failed to comply with the terms of a Special Events Permit issued under this Resolution.
      Section 6: Multiple-Day or Regularly-Occurring Special Event
       (A) A Special Event may take place over the course of one or more consecutive days but not more than four. For any such Special Event, only one Special Events Permit Application will be required.
       (B) (1) For Special Events that are scheduled to be held on a regular or recurring basis at the same location within a six-month window and for which a similar setup is required at each occurrence, only one Special Events Permit Application will be required.
       (2) Upon notice to the Holder, the Chief of Police may review a Special Events Permit that has been issued for a regular or recurring event and revise the terms of the Special Events Permit if the expected circumstances for which the Special Events Permit was granted change during the course of the time in which the Special Event has occurred. The Chief of Police will work with the Holder to agree upon revised terms, but the Chief of Police retains the authority to revoke the Special Events Permit under Article II, Section 9.
      Section 7: Responsibility for Special Event
      (A) A Holder is solely responsible for conducting the Special Event in compliance with the conditions of the Special Events Permit and for maintaining public safety and order during the Special Event. Boardman Township does not assume any liability or responsibility by issuing a Special Events Permit.
      (B) As part of the Application, the Applicant shall agree to assume the defense of and indemnify and save harmless the township, trustees, boards, officers, employees, and agents from all suits, actions, damages, or claims to which the township may be subjected of any kind or nature whatsoever resulting from, caused by, arising out of, or as a consequence of such Special Event and the activities permitted in connection therewith.
      Section 8: Pre-Paid Expenses for Police Protection
      If police protection is deemed necessary for the event, the Chief of Police shall inform the Applicant, and the Applicant must secure the police protection deemed necessary at the Applicant’s sole expense. The Chief of Police may require such an expenses to be paid to the Township before a Special Events Permit is issued or may issue the Special Events Permits and require the expenses within a reasonable period of time before the Special Event, in which case the Chief of Police will revoke the Special Events Permit if the expenses are not paid by that time.
      Section 9: Revocation of Special Events Permit
      (A) Any Special Events Permit may be revoked by the Chief of Police or his or her designee at any time when, by reason of emergency, disaster, calamity, disorder, riot, traffic conditions, violation of this Resolution or any permit conditions, or undue burden on public services, he or she determines that the health, safety, tranquility, or welfare of the public or property requires such revocation.
      (B) The Chief of Police or his or her designee will notify the Holder or other person designated in the Special Events Permit Application in writing by personal service or certified mail, or, if the Special Event has commenced, orally, in writing, by personal contact or service, or by telephone or text message.
      (C) Continuing a Special Event after the Chief of Police has given the notice required by Article II, Section 9(B) has been delivered is unlawful.
      ARTICLE III. PENALTIES, SEVERABILITY, AND EFFECTIVE DATE OF RESOLUTION
      Section 1: Enforcement
      This Resolution and the terms and conditions of a Special Events Permit shall be enforced by any law enforcement officer or by any other Township official designated by the Township or the Chief of Police to enforce these provisions.
      Section 2: Penalties
      A violation of any provision of this Resolution or the failure to comply with the terms of a Special Events Permit shall constitute an unclassified civil misdemeanor punishable by a civil fine as follows:
      (1) First Offense - $250.00
      (2) Second Offense - $500.00
      (3) Third Offense - $750.00
      (4) Fourth and Subsequent Offenses - $1,000.00
      Section 3: Severability
      If any paragraph, provision, or section of this Resolution is held to be invalid by the final decision of any court of competent jurisdiction, then that decision will not affect the validity of the remaining paragraphs, provisions, or sections of this Resolution. The Boardman Township Board of Trustees declares that it would have adopted this Resolution and each paragraph, provision, or section thereof despite the fact that one or more paragraphs, provisions, or sections would be declared invalid.
      Section 4: Effective Date
      This Resolution shall be effective thirty (30) days from the date of adoption.
      ROLL CALL
      Mr. Brad Calhoun, Trustee, aye
      Mr. Thomas Costello, Vice Chair, aye
      Mr. Larry Moliterno, Chair, aye
      BY ORDER OF THE BOARDMAN TOWNSHIP TRUSTEES:
      Brad Calhoun, Trustee
      Thomas Costello, Vice Chair
      Larry Moliterno, Chair
      ATTEST:
      William D. Leicht, Fiscal Officer
      Approved as to Form:
      Matthew G. Vansuch, Special Legal Counsel
      CERTIFICATION
      I, William D. Leicht, Fiscal Officer of Boardman Township, do hereby certify that the foregoing Resolution is taken from the Minutes of Boardman Township at a meeting duly-held on April 22, 2016 that the same has been compared by me with the original Resolution of said Minutes, and that said Resolution is a true and correct copy thereof.
      William D. Leicht
      Fiscal Officer
      Second reading was Friday, Apr. 22 at 3:30 p.m. when the Boardman Township Board of Trustees meets at the Boardman Township Government Center, 8299 Market Street, Boardman Township, Mahoning County, Ohio.
  Notice of Public Hearing  
  May 5, 2016 Edition  
      NOICE OF PUBIC HEARING
      The Boardman Township Board of Appeals shall hold a Public Hearing on Tuesday, May 17, 2016 at 7:00 PM at the Boardman Township Government Center, 8299 Market Street, Boardman Township, Ohio 44512, for consideration of the following cases:
      APPEAL CASE AC-2016-10
      Dr. James Sansone, 6775 Applewood Boulevard, Boardman, Ohio 44512, property owner, requests a variance from the terms of the Boardman Township Zoning Resolution, effective May 29, 2012, Article XII, Special Provisions, in order to construct a sign proposed to be located at 6775 Applewood Boulevard. Specifically, property owner requests a variance form Article XII, Special Provisions, Section H Signs and Billboard, Letter D, Number 3, in order to construct a sign at the Kentwood Entrance to his property, seeking relief from the limitation of one sign per parcel. The property is further known as Lot 565 of the Applewood Boulevard Plat, Parcel Number 29-017-0-038.10-0. Said property is zoned Commercial, in Boardman Township, Mahoning County, State of Ohio.
      APPEAL CASE AC-2016-12
      Duane Pitzer Construction, agent for Scott and Cristy Smith, 7534 Indian Trail, Poland, Ohio 44514, property owner, requests a variance from the terms of the Boardman Township Zoning Resolution, effective May 29, 2012, Article V, Residence R-1 Districts, D. Private Garages and Other Out-Buildings, in order to construct a detached garage that is 1040 square feet in area with a covered porch that is 120 square feet in area seeking relief from the limitation that a detached garage shall not exceed 676 square feet in area. The property is further known as Lot 955, Residential Park Re-Plat, Parcel Number 30-057-0-097.00-0. Said property is zoned Residential R-1, in Boardman Township, Mahoning County, State of Ohio
      APPEAL CASE AC-2016-13
      Matt Wickwire, WC Holdings, LLC, dba Boardman Nissan, 7809 Market Street, Boardman, Ohio 44512, property owner, requests a variance from the Boardman Township Zoning Resolution as amended through May 29, 2012, Article XVII, Riparian Setbacks Section E, Establishment of Designated Watercourses and Riparian Setbacks, Subsection 2b requiring a minimum setback of 75 feet requesting a reduction of the riparian setback to 40 feet, Article XV, Part Three Model Design Guidelines and Performance Standards, Section A, Setbacks, Paragraph 2a requiring a 30 foot buffer between parcels of commercial and residential use where fences are utilized, requesting the buffer to be reduced to 10 feet, Article X, Commercial Districts, Section C, Yard and Height Provisions requiring a 35 foot building setback from the property line requesting the setback to be reduced to 19 feet and Article XV, Part Three, Model Design Guidelines and Performance Standards, Section D, Landscaping/Lawn Requirements, Paragraph 2 requiring 10 trees and 25 shrubs per 100 feet of frontage to reduce the landscaping requirement to what has been submitted to Site Plan Committee in order to operate a vehicle storage and preparation lot at 16 Boardman Boulevard, Boardman, Ohio 44512. The property is further known as Lot 6 of the Homestead Replat of Lots 4,5 & 6, Parcel Number 29-033-0-094.00-0. Said property is zoned Commercial in Boardman Township, Mahoning County, State of Ohio.
      APPEAL CASE AC-2016-14
      Mr. Jonathon Marafiote, 1261 Pioneer Drive, Boardman, Ohio 44512, property owner, requests a variance from the Boardman Township Zoning Resolution as amended through May 29, 2012, Article V, Residence District R-1 E. Fencing, seeking relief from a setback of 16 feet for a fence in excess of three feet in height on a corner lot property line to a setback varying from 5 feet to 16 feet. The property is further known as Lot 72 of the Tippwood Dells Plat, Parcel Number 29-082-0-082.00-0. Said property is zoned Residence R-1 in Boardman Township, Mahoning County, State of Ohio.
      APPEAL CASE AC-2016-15
      Mr. Chuck Whitman, 970 Windham Court, Boardman, Ohio 44512, dba 1301 Tiffany Plaza LLC, 1301 Boardman Poland Road, Boardman, Ohio 44512, property owner, requests a variance as per the terms of Article XVI of the Boardman Township Zoning Resolution as amended through May 29, 2012 in order to construct a Planned Unit Development consisting of two (2) units, a drive through restaurant and a multi-tenant plaza. The property is further known as Lot 2 of Replat 2 & 3 of the M Schumer Plat, Parcel Number 30-054-0-009.00-0. Said property is zoned Commercial in Boardman Township, Mahoning County State of Ohio.
      APPEAL CASE AC-2016-16
      Mr. Matt Taylor, dba Taylor Kia of Boardman, 7870 Market Street, Boardman, Ohio 44512, property owner requests conditional use as per the terms of Article XVI of the Boardman Township Zoning Resolution as amended through May 29, 2012 in order to construct and operate a vehicle storage lot. The property is further known as Lot 1 of the Taylor Kia Plat No.1, Parcel Number 29-093-0-033.00-0. Said property is zoned Residence R-1 in Boardman Township, Mahoning County, State of Ohio.
      APPEAL CASE AC-2016-17
      Mr. Mark Allen, dba New Hope Recovery Partners, 5600 Market Street, Suite 8, Boardman, Ohio 44512 requests a conditional use as per the terms of Article XVI of the Boardman Township Zoning Resolution as amended through May 29, 2012 in order to operate a treatment facility for opiate addiction that includes counseling and medication distribution. The property is further known as Great Lot 5 Division 3, Parcel Number 29-064-0-368.00-0. Said property is zoned Commercial in Boardman Township, Mahoning County, State of Ohio.
      Text and maps of the request ay be viewed at the Boardman Township Zoning Office, 8299 Market Street, Boardman, Ohio 44512 Monday through Friday, between the hours of 8:00 AM and 4:00 PM, until time of hearing.
      Atty. John F. Shultz, Chairman
      Boardman Township Board of Appeals
      Marilyn Sferra Kenner, P.E.
      Assistant Zoning Inspector
     
  Boardman Local Schools Superintendent Frank Lazzeri  
  Will be Honored May 23:   May 5, 2016 Edition  
BOARDMAN LOCAL SCHOOLS SUPERINTENDENT, FRANK LAZZERI
     BOARDMAN LOCAL SCHOOLS SUPERINTENDENT, FRANK LAZZERI, will be honored Mon., May 23 during a community reception in the Boardman High School cafeteria, from 4:00 p.m. to 6:00 p.m. Lazzeri will end a distinguished 44-year career in public education on June 30, when he retires. He has served for 12 years as the superintendant of Boardman Local Schools. The community is invited to stop by and greet the superintendent during his retirement celebration.
  Potential Development School for Students with Autism  
  Is Breaking New Heights:   May 5, 2016 Edition  
     Potential Development School for Students with Autism is breaking ground to new heights to begin the installation of an elevator which will enable them to expand services through the renovation of the buildings second floor. This project will allow PD to double the student enrollment through the addition of 8 classrooms to the high school. Pictured: left to right, John Jamieson, PD Board Member; Michael Fagan, Olsavsky Jaminet Architects; Crissi Jenkins, Youngstown Foundation/Hine Memorial Fund; Paul Garchar, PD Executive Director; Angela Crawford, Olsavsky Jaminet Architects & PD Board President; Ted Downie, President Alex Downie & Sons Co. & PD Board Member; and Sue Stricklin, Simon Roofing VP Marketing & PD Board Member. Last year two agency fundraiser, Mahoning Valley Pizza Cook-Off and Mahoning Valley Sports Trivia Championship, raised over $120,000 towards the cost of the elevator. The remaining $236,000 needed for the project was generously donated by the Hine Memorial Fund, J. Ford Crandall Foundation, Walter & Caroline Watson Foundation, Berlin Fund and countless other foundations, service clubs, private donations and fundraisers. For more information visit www.potentialdevelopment.org.
  Canfield Republican Women Presents Scholarship  
  May 5, 2016 Edition  
     The Canfield Republican Women’s Club proudly presented a scholarship to YSU ROTC Cadet Brandi Burrows at their April meeting, YSU ROTC Instructor, Pat Billet spoke about the ROTC program at YSU and the rigorous schedule the young cadets are expected to maintain. He spoke about Cadet Burrows being recognized on the Dean’s List, working part time, attending a full time class schedule and still completing all requirements for the ROTC program. A Niles High School graduate, Brandi will graduate from YSU this spring in Military Science and will be commissioned as a 2nd Lt. in the U.S. Army. Her goal is to work in Intelligence. Pictured: left to right, YSU ROTC Cadet, Brandi Burrows; Holly Deibel, President of CWRC; and YSU ROTC Instructor, Pat Billet. This Scholarship was instituted this year as the part of the Club’s “Caring for America” Program. This will be an ongoing Award to a ROTC female cadet at YSU. Cadet Burrows was chosen by her leaders in the ROTC Program and the CRWC was so proud to have her speak at the meeting and know that the future of our County is in the hands of such a fine young person.
     
  Grand Opening Kritti’s Closet May 3  
  April 28, 2016 Edition  
     A grand opening for Autintown Fitch High School’s latest project, Kritti’s Closet, will be held on Tues., May 3. The project first began when Family and Consumer Science Teacher, Donna Burnell, noticed that some students were coming to school hungry from the weekend. She knew she had to help these students in some way; that is how the project began and has since blossomed into much more.
      During the school lunch hour students can find their way to Kritti’s Closet to pick up anything they may need. Clothing such as falcon wear, formal wear, hygienic supplies, and interview attire are available. The clothes are gently used and come in a variety of sizes. Crock pot meals will also available at Kritti’s Closet, all made by Burnell’s family consumer science classes. Burnell said students in need will be given a crock pot and enough meals to bring home for the weekend.
      The room is named “Kritti’s Closet” in honor of Burnell’s sister, Kristine “Kritti” Burnell-Stickler, who passed suddenly of an aneurysm on Dec. 21, 2014. “She would have given anything to others, even the clothes off her back. Because of this, the closet has been named in her honor,” says Burnell.
      Any clothing donations for Kritti’s Closet may be dropped of in the main office of Austintown Fitch High School. Monetary donations may also be made at: gofundme.com/krittikloset. “It looks like we have a lot of stuff right now, but I expect it to go fast. Any donations would be greatly appreciated,” Burnell stated.
     
  Coach Ron Moschella Ohio HOF Inductee  
  Joins Legendary Alan Burns In Select Group:   April 28, 2016 Edition  
     Longtime Boardman Lady Spartan basketball coach, Ron Moschella, can often be seen ‘coming off the bench’ and exhorting his players, most if not all of whom will tell you his bark is bigger than his bite.
      ‘Coach Mosh’ at one time, wanted to coach at his college alma mater, Kent State; and once applied for the top spot at Youngstown State.
      But college coaching wasn’t in the cards and in more than four decades of coaching girls basketball at the high school level, the 66-year-old coach has piled-up 671 wins and many, many accolades.
      Toss in several of years of coaching boys golf at Boardman High School, and girls and boys basketball at Columbiana High School, and ‘Mosh’ has posted more than 700 wins in his prep coaching career, a standard few coaches ever reach.
      Last Saturday, during ceremonies held at the Columbus Marriott, Moschella was among a select group of four coaches from around the state to gain induction into the 30th Ohio High School Basketball Coaches Hall of Fame.
      Moschella is the second former Boardman High School hoop coach to gain inducted into the statewide Hall of Fame, as legendary Boardman boys cage coach Alan Burns was honored in 1999.
      Coach Mosh has been referred to as animated, guarded, confrontational, loud, pointed, dedicated and driven.
      The two references to which all agree, however, is that Ron Moschella is a success and a winner because he never compromised his principles in the classroom, or on the field of play.
      A 1968 graduate of Ursuline High School, he is a 1972 graduate of The Kent State University where he earned his B.S. Ed. in Business and Physical Education. He later earned his M.S. Ed. in Administration from Youngstown State University (1980).
      Moschella started his teaching/coaching career in the Howland School System where he taught marketing education and served as Tigers golf coach for seven years, baseball coach for three years and tennis coach for two years.
      He moved to Boardman High School in 1978 where he taught marketing education, business law and physical education.
      He became head coach of the Boardman girls’ basketball program in 1981, a post that he held for 31 years.
      He elevated the Lady Spartans to new heights with 19 Steel Valley Conference titles and two Federal League crowns.
      The 2002 UPI and AP “Coach of the Year,” he is a 21-time recipient of the Mahoning Valley Coaches Association “Coach of the Year” award, a four-time recipient (1986, 1992, 1995 and 2002) of NEO “Coach of the Year” laurels and the 2001 Ohio High School Basketball Association “Coach of the Year” honor as well.
      Selected to coach in the 1987 Ohio State All Star game, his Boardman teams advanced to district play in 21 seasons, winning 14 district titles and finishing as runners-up on seven other occasions.
      The Lady Spartans were regional finalists in 1986, 1996, 2001 and 2005, and won the regional title is both 2005 and 2008 and were regional semi-finalists on 10 separate occasions. Under Moschella, Boardman teams advanced to the Ohio ‘Final Four’ twice, in 2005 and 2008.
      He was also honored by the OHSBCA for his 500th victory in 2007 and again 2013 for his 600th win.
      Moschella is known for his demand of excellence from his players, not only on the court, but also in the classroom and was honored by the The Crier, the BHS yearbook, with its dedication to him in 1997. Then, in 2000, he was named the Boardman High School Teacher of the Year.
      Moschella was inducted into the Curbstone Coaches Hall of Fame in 2010 and the Boardman High School Hall of Fame in 2013.
      Following his retirement from Boardman, he was offered the opportunity to coach girls’ basketball at Columbiana High School. After two consecutive winning seasons with the girls, Moschella was offered the Columbiana boys position as well. Both teams finished the 2014-15 season with winning records.
      He enters his fourth season with Columbiana girl this year, where loyal followers from his days at Boardman, still show up to watch the lady Clippers, where one of his assistant coach is one of his best-ever players, Courtney Schiffhauer, who went on to star at Michigan State.
      Ron and his wife Judy, his high school sweetheart, reside in Boardman and have three daughters: Christine (Brian Terlesky), Nadine (Nick Colla) and Jolene (Don Ross), who all played successfully for their father at Boardman and each has been inducted into the BHS Hall of Fame.
      Ron and Judy are proud grandparents of ten grandchildren: Brian, Tyler, Emma, Jimmy, Jenna, Nicholas, Lia, Tessa, Gianna and Lena.
      PICTURED:  RON MOSCHELLA’S BOARDMAN HIGH SCHOOL LADY SPARTAN cage team claimed a huge win in the 1986 regional semifinals when they upset #1-ranked Barberton, 51-41. Hugging the Hall of Fame coach at the end of the game in this photo is Joanne Dzuray.
  Internet Exchange Site Opens At The Government Center  
  April 21, 2016 Edition  
     Internet buyers and sellers who don’t want to give on-line strangers their address can now exchange goods in a safe environment, the parking lot of the Boardman Township Government Center, 8299 Market St.
      The Boardman Police Department has set up a designated ‘Internet Purchase Exchange Location’ where internet users can buy and sell in confidence and safety.
      After some research by Police Chief Jack Nichols and Township Administrator Jason Loree, it was the decided this project could be done at little cost and have a potential to have a large impact for consumers who use the internet.
      Chief Nichols explained. “We set up an internet sales station in front of the police station, complete with video surveillance, to keep local residents who purchase items on through the internet safe.
      “With the increasing popularity of Facebook, yard sales, and other buying and selling apps, the Boardman Police Department has decided to offer the use of our parking lot to conduct such exchanges. The area is video recorded.”
      “We encourage our residents or anyone who participates in these types of transactions in the area to take advantage of this location. Please don’t meet strangers at private residences or in areas that you are unfamiliar with,” Trustee Thomas Costello noted.
      The designated ‘safe’ exchange area is directly across from the main entrance of the Boardman Township Government Center, under 24-hour surveillance.
     
      PICTURED: photo/John A. Darnell jr.
       BOARDMAN TOWNSHIP OFFICIALS DISPLAY one of three signs that have been placed in the front parking lot of the Government Center, 8299 Market St., that designates an internet purchase exchange location. Left to Right, Boardman Township Trustees Larry Moliterno, Thomas Costello, Brad Calhoun, Police Chief Jack Nichols and Fiscal Officer William Leicht.
     
  Fleet Manager Of Township’s Police Vehicles Named To Ford Motor Advisory Board  
  ‘Protect The Protectors’:   April 14, 2016 Edition  
     Meeting on Monday night, Boardman Township Trustees recognized by proclamation the efforts of longtime fleet manager of the more than 50 vehicles used by the township’s police department.
      Mike Carkido, who has maintained the police department’s marked and unmarked vehicles for the past 14 years, was recognized after being named to the Ford Motor Co. Police Advisory Board.
      The elite, 18-member board provides recommendations to the auto company on the unique concerns of law enforcement in the safety, reliability and costs associated with the manufacture police vehicles.
      In receiving the recognition, Carkido told Trustees that his job is ‘to protect the protectors.”
      The township’s fleet of police vehicles includes some 25 cruisers and 25 unmarked units.
      New cruisers are ordered as ‘shells,’ and delivered to Carkido, who then outfits the cars, installing everything from light bars, emblems, and computers, and thousands of feet of electrical wiring.
      “The most important aspect of my job is to make the cruisers as safe as I can for our police officers. Their safety is my foremost concern,” Carkido said.
      Police cruisers have special upholstery, what Carkido says is a massive brake system, and large engine coolers.
      “The heavy duty brakes are required for liability reasons. A feature called ‘Stablitrack’ can determine when the cars lose traction and then independently make corrections,” Carkido said.
      “Our police officers average about 3,000 miles a month per cruiser patrolling the township, and we get four-to-five-years of service with each cruiser.
      “So it is important they are properly maintained,” Carkido said.
      Police Chief Jack Nichols told Trustees that Carkido’s knowledge of police cars “has gained him a reputation among law enforcement agencies throughout northeastern Ohio. He knows how to keep these cars running,” adding that the fleet manager’s “preventative maintenance programs have saved the township a lot of money in repair costs.”
      The are some 30,000 police departments across America that operate over 1 million police cruisers, about 80 per cent of which are manufactured by the Ford Motor Co.
     
      PICTURED: Fleet Manager, Mike Carkido, “The most important aspect of my job is to make the cruisers as safe as I can for our police officers. Their safety is my foremost concern.”
  LEGAL NOTICE  
  April 14, 2016 Edition  
     LEGAL NOTICE
      The Boardman Township Zoning Commission will conduct a Public Hearing on the following amendment to the Boardman Township Zoning Resolution and Township Zoning Map on Thursday, April 28, 2016 at 5:30 PM, at the Boardman Township Government Center, 8299 Market Street, Boardman, Ohio 44512. Text and maps of the request may be viewed at the Boardman Township Zoning Office, 8299 Market Street, Boardman, Ohio 44512 Monday through Friday, between the hours of 8:00 AM and 4:00 PM, until time of hearing.
      Following the recommendation of the Zoning Commission, the proposed amendment will be referred to the Board of Trustees for final determination.
      AMENDMENT A-2016-04
      Pursuant to Article XVI, Section F, Part a, Number 1 of the Boardman Township Zoning Resolution, as amended through May 29, 2012, concerning the initiation of amendments to the Township Zoning Resolution, the Board of Trustees of Boardman Township find it necessary to initiate hearings to amend the Boardman Township Zoning Resolution and Township zoning Map to reclassify and rezone the following 85 parcels of real property from Residential R-2 Districts to Residential R-1 Districts:
      44 Parcels along South Cadillac Drive
      41 Parcels along North Cadillac Drive
      All properties are located in Boardman Township, Mahoning County, State of Ohio.
      Peter W. Lymber, Chairman
      Boardman Township Zoning Commission
      Marilyn Sferra Kenner, P.E.
      Assistant Zoning Inspector
  PUBLIC NOTICE  
  April 14, 2016 Edition  
     PUBLIC NOTICE
      Boardman Township, 8299 Market Street, Boardman, Mahoning County, Ohio 44512 is now accepting applications for Director of Zoning and Development. For a list of qualifications and position description please visit www.Boardmantownship.com under Administration – HR Related. This is a full-time, exempt position. Pay range is $50,000-$70,000 based on qualifications; other benefits offered. Applications and position description are also available at Township Government Center, 8299 Market St. Please mail any applications to the address listed above to the Attn: Jason Loree, Township Administrator. To email an application please send them to jloree@boardmantwp.com Deadline for applications is 3:00 pm Wednesday, April 27, 2016. Any questions please call Jason Loree at 330-726-4144. Ext. 61817.
      Boardman Township is an
      Equal Opportunity Employer.
  LEGAL NOTICE  
  April 14, 2016 Edition  
     Boardman Township Trustees
      Mahoning County, Ohio
      Home Rule Resolution No. 16-04-11-08
      Home Rule Resolution Adopting and Codifying Requirements for Holding Special Events
      First Reading
      The Board of Trustees of Boardman Township, Mahoning County, Ohio met in Regular Session at the Boardman Township Government Center on the 11th day of April, 2016, with the following members present: Thomas P. Costello, Brad Calhoun, Larry Moliterno.
      Moved by Mr. Calhoun, seconded by Mr. Costello to approve and adopt Home Rule Resolution 16-04-11-08, to be effective 30 days from the date of adoption, in accordance with Ohio Revised Code Section 504.10 and publication as follows:
      WHEREAS, the Boardman Township Board of Trustees adopted a Limited Home Rule government in accordance with Ohio Revised Code Section 504.01 by Resolution duly adopted and approved October 12, 1999;
      WHEREAS, Boardman Township constitutes an Urban Township with Limited Home Rule Authority as provided in the Ohio Revised Code Section 504.01, vested with the powers rights, and immunities granted therein;
      WHEREAS, Boardman Township currently does not have any mechanism for regulating large-scale, outdoor events that attract visitors for special recreational, entertainment, charitable, or commercial events;
      WHEREAS, Boardman Township desires to create such a mechanism for regulating the dates, times, location, and conditions under which these special events are conducted within the Township and in a manner which is necessary for the general health, safety and welfare of the general public;
      WHEREAS, as a limited home-rule township under Ohio Revised Code Chapter 504, Boardman Township has the power to adopt and enforce within the unincorporated area of the township local police, sanitary, and other similar regulations that are not in conflict with general laws or otherwise prohibited by Section 504.04(B);
      WHEREAS, the Boardman Township Board of Trustees finds that establishing a special events permit is really and substantially related to the public health, safety, morals, or general welfare of the public; and
      WHEREAS, the Boardman Township Board of Trustees finds and determines that all formal actions of this Board concerning and relating to passage of this resolution were taken in an open meeting of this Board and that all deliberations of this Board and of any of its committees that resulted in such formal action were taken in meetings open to the public and in compliance with all legal requirements, including Ohio Revised Code Section 121.22.
      NOW THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED, THAT THE FOLLOWING REGULATIONS BE AND HEREBY ARE APPROVED AND ADOPTED, AS AMENDED, TO BE EFFECTIVE 30 DAYS FROM THE DATE OF SECOND READING, PUBLICATION AND CODIFICATION:
      ARTICLE I. GENERAL PROVISIONS
      Section 1: Purpose
      The purpose of this Resolution is to provide Boardman Township with a mechanism for regulating the dates, times, location, and conditions under which permittees are authorized to conduct special recreational, entertainment, charitable, or commercial events for individuals to congregate or assemble outdoors for a single purpose within Boardman Township in a manner consistent with maintaining the public health, safety, and welfare of its residents and the visitors who are attracted to Boardman Township for such special events. Boardman Township also wants to ensure that adequate and appropriate emergency provisions or other township support is available, if needed. Nothing in this Resolution is intended to prohibit, restrict, or delay any person, group, or organization from any activity otherwise permitted by law.
      Section 2: Scope
      This Resolution does not apply to (A) organized school-related programs, sporting events, and activities; (B) other public programs, activities, parades, or events authorized by the Board of Township Trustees or the Chief of Police or his or her designated representative, whether or not on public property; (C) programs, events, and activities at the Boardman Township Park that are organized or approved by the Boardman Township Park District; or (D) programs, events, and activities that are organized or approved by the Mill Creek Metropolitan Park District on property owned by it. This Resolution does not supersede any other applicable federal, state, or local rules or regulations.
      Section 3: Definitions
       (A) “Special Event” means any outdoor event, sponsored by an individual, business, or other entity or organization intended primarily for recreational, entertainment, charitable, or commercial purposes to be held within the jurisdiction of Boardman Township which does not block off any street, public sidewalk, alley, or highway area. The Chief of Police must approve any temporary closure of any street, public sidewalk, alley, or highway area separately from the Special Event Permit process. This definition includes that portion of an “indoor event” that contemporaneously occurs at an adjacent outdoor space. A “Special Event” may, but does not have to, include the cordoning off of areas in a parking lot to create a space where people are intended to gather.
       (B) “Applicant” means the individual, corporation, partnership, or other entity or organization sponsoring the proposed Special Event and who is responsible for all aspects of the Special Event.
       (C) “Special Event Permit” means a permit duly issued in accordance with this Resolution for the conduct of a Special Event containing such terms and conditions which the Chief of Police finds necessary to conduct the Special Event in a manner which is consistent with maintaining public health, safety, and welfare of Boardman Township residents and visitors who are attracted to Boardman Township for such special recreational, entertainment, charitable, or commercial events.
       (D) “Block party” means a party organized by and for the benefit of the residents of a residential block or neighborhood on a temporarily-closed road or street.
       (E) “Holder” means an Applicant who has received a Special Events Permit.
      ARTICLE II. SPECIAL EVENTS PERMIT
      Section 1: Special Events Permit Required
      No person, corporation, partnership, or other entity or organization may conduct a Special Event without a Special Events Permit.
      Section 2: Review by the Chief of Police
      The Chief of Police or his or her designee will review all Special Events applications.
      Section 3: Special Events Permit Application
      An Applicant must submit a Special Events Permit Application to the Chief of Police at least 14 days before the date of the Special Event. The application must be on a form provided by the Township that includes, at a minimum, the following information:
       (A) name, address, and telephone number of the Applicant;
       (B) date(s) and times of the Special Event;
       (C) description of the Special Event, including any name that the Applicant will use to advertise the Special Event;
       (D) address or location where the Special Event will take place;
       (E) estimated number of people attending the Special Event;
       (F) plan for dealing with traffic, parking, crowd control, and sanitation and refuse services;
       (G) anticipated need for Township-related services for the Special Event;
       (H) evidence of financial and personnel-related capability to run the Special Event, including, but not limited to, the ability to provide security personnel, age verification, liability insurance, and first aid;
       (I) name, address, telephone number, and cellphone number of the individual who will be present at the Special Event and will be responsible for the overall operation of the Special Event, if not the Applicant.
      Section 4: Fee
      An Applicant must pay a $20 fee when submitting a Special Events Permit Application to cover the costs of reviewing, processing, and enforcing this resolution. There is no fee for a block party or a Special Events sponsored by a house of worship on its premises.
      Section 5: Criteria for Issuing a Special Events Permit
       (A) In considering whether to issue a Special Events Permit, the Chief of Police shall not issue a permit when:
        (1) the proposed Special Event is scheduled to begin earlier than 5:00 pm on a weekday;
        (2) the proposed Special Event is scheduled to end later than 11:00 pm on any day; or
        (3) the proposed Special Event is to take place in property zoned other than Commercial, except this subprovision does not apply to a block party or a Special Event sponsored by a house of worship on its premises.
       (B) In considering whether to issue a Special Events Permit, the Chief of Police may not issue a permit when:
        (1) the Chief of Police determines the proposed Special Event cannot be conducted in the location proposed without endangering the public, disturbing the peace, threatening public health, or damaging private or public property. The Chief of Police may consider the following criteria when making a determination under this section:
        (a) whether the Applicant has provided adequate parking and traffic control for the Special Event, including sufficient parking spaces near the Special Event have been made available to the Applicant by the property owner to accommodate the number of vehicles reasonably expected for the estimated number of people attending the Special Event.
        (b) whether the Applicant has provided adequate crowd control and security for the Special Event.
        (c) whether the Applicant has adequate liability insurance.
        (d) whether the proposed Special Event poses a burden on Township-related services.
        (e) whether the proposed Special Event will have an undue adverse effect on neighboring properties due to noise, litter, or other negative features, and whether the Applicant has a plan to address them. While it may be presumed that a proposed Special Event that otherwise complies with the provisions of this Section will not have an undue adverse effect on neighboring properties, but evidence that prior Special Events conducted by the Applicant or on the same premises as the proposed Special Event has had an undue adverse effect on neighboring properties is sufficient to rebut this presumption.
        (f) whether the Applicant has adequate financial ability and staff to conduct the Special Event satisfactorily.
        (g) whether the application contains any misrepresentation of material facts.
       (2) the Applicant has previously
        (a) violated any provision of this Resolution; or
        (b) failed to comply with the terms of a Special Events Permit issued under this Resolution.
      Section 6: Multiple-Day or Regularly-Occurring Special Event
       (A) A Special Event may take place over the course of one or more consecutive days but not more than four. For any such Special Event, only one Special Events Permit Application will be required.
       (B) (1) For Special Events that are scheduled to be held on a regular or recurring basis at the same location within a six-month window and for which a similar setup is required at each occurrence, only one Special Events Permit Application will be required.
       (2) Upon notice to the Holder, the Chief of Police may review a Special Events Permit that has been issued for a regular or recurring event and revise the terms of the Special Events Permit if the expected circumstances for which the Special Events Permit was granted change during the course of the time in which the Special Event has occurred. The Chief of Police will work with the Holder to agree upon revised terms, but the Chief of Police retains the authority to revoke the Special Events Permit under Article II, Section 9.
      Section 7: Responsibility for Special Event
      (A) A Holder is solely responsible for conducting the Special Event in compliance with the conditions of the Special Events Permit and for maintaining public safety and order during the Special Event. Boardman Township does not assume any liability or responsibility by issuing a Special Events Permit.
      (B) As part of the Application, the Applicant shall agree to assume the defense of and indemnify and save harmless the township, trustees, boards, officers, employees, and agents from all suits, actions, damages, or claims to which the township may be subjected of any kind or nature whatsoever resulting from, caused by, arising out of, or as a consequence of such Special Event and the activities permitted in connection therewith.
      Section 8: Pre-Paid Expenses for Police Protection
      If police protection is deemed necessary for the event, the Chief of Police shall inform the Applicant, and the Applicant must secure the police protection deemed necessary at the Applicant’s sole expense. The Chief of Police may require such an expenses to be paid to the Township before a Special Events Permit is issued or may issue the Special Events Permits and require the expenses within a reasonable period of time before the Special Event, in which case the Chief of Police will revoke the Special Events Permit if the expenses are not paid by that time.
      Section 9: Revocation of Special Events Permit
      (A) Any Special Events Permit may be revoked by the Chief of Police or his or her designee at any time when, by reason of emergency, disaster, calamity, disorder, riot, traffic conditions, violation of this Resolution or any permit conditions, or undue burden on public services, he or she determines that the health, safety, tranquility, or welfare of the public or property requires such revocation.
      (B) The Chief of Police or his or her designee will notify the Holder or other person designated in the Special Events Permit Application in writing by personal service or certified mail, or, if the Special Event has commenced, orally, in writing, by personal contact or service, or by telephone or text message.
      (C) Continuing a Special Event after the Chief of Police has given the notice required by Article II, Section 9(B) has been delivered is unlawful.
      ARTICLE III. PENALTIES, SEVERABILITY, AND EFFECTIVE DATE OF RESOLUTION
      Section 1: Enforcement
      This Resolution and the terms and conditions of a Special Events Permit shall be enforced by any law enforcement officer or by any other Township official designated by the Township or the Chief of Police to enforce these provisions.
      Section 2: Penalties
      A violation of any provision of this Resolution or the failure to comply with the terms of a Special Events Permit shall constitute an unclassified civil misdemeanor punishable by a civil fine as follows:
      (1) First Offense - $250.00
      (2) Second Offense - $500.00
      (3) Third Offense - $750.00
      (4) Fourth and Subsequent Offenses - $1,000.00
      Section 3: Severability
      If any paragraph, provision, or section of this Resolution is held to be invalid by the final decision of any court of competent jurisdiction, then that decision will not affect the validity of the remaining paragraphs, provisions, or sections of this Resolution. The Boardman Township Board of Trustees declares that it would have adopted this Resolution and each paragraph, provision, or section thereof despite the fact that one or more paragraphs, provisions, or sections would be declared invalid.
      Section 4: Effective Date
      This Resolution shall be effective thirty (30) days from the date of adoption.
      ROLL CALL
      Mr. Brad Calhoun, Trustee, aye
      Mr. Thomas Costello, Vice Chair, aye
      Mr. Larry Moliterno, Chair, aye
      BY ORDER OF THE BOARDMAN TOWNSHIP TRUSTEES:
      Brad Calhoun, Trustee
      Thomas Costello, Vice Chair
      Larry Moliterno, Chair
      ATTEST:
      William D. Leicht, Fiscal Officer
      Approved as to Form:
      Matthew G. Vansuch, Special Legal Counsel
      CERTIFICATION
      I, William D. Leicht, Fiscal Officer of Boardman Township, do hereby certify that the foregoing Resolution is taken from the Minutes of Boardman Township at a meeting duly-held on April 11, 2016 that the same has been compared by me with the original Resolution of said Minutes, and that said Resolution is a true and correct copy thereof.
      William D. Leicht
      Fiscal Officer
      Second reading will be Friday, Apr. 22 at 3:30 p.m. when the Boardman Township Board of Trustees meets at the Boardman Township Government Center, 8299 Market Street, Boardman Township, Mahoning County, Ohio.
  Salem Man Gets Maximum Sentence On Drug, Arson Charges  
  Stemming From Mar. 1, 2014 Glenwood Ave. Fire:   April 14, 2016 Edition  
     A 34-year-old Salem man has received the maximum sentence possible from charges stemming from an arson fire at an illegal meth lab at 6614 Glenwood Ave. on Mar. 1, 2014.
      Mahoning County Common Pleas Judge Shirley Christian sent 34-year-old Michael Goughenour, of 13116 West Pine Lake Rd., Salem, Oh., to prison for seven years, indicating the man’s criminal history commanded the sentence.
      “The court finds that [Mr. Goughenour] is not amenable to a community control sanction, and prison is the only sanction...The maximum sentence is necessary due to [Mr. Goughenour’s] previous history of offenses,” the judge ruled.
      In addition, Goughenour was ordered “not to ingest or be injected with a drug of abuse” and if that condition was violated, Goughenour could receive another three and a half years in jail.
      Judge Christian also ordered Goughenour to make restitution of $5500 to the Boardman Fire Department, but suspended that ruling “due to Goughenour’s indigency.”
      On Sat., Mar. 1, 2014 when firemen answered a fire call at the Glenwood Ave. home, they discovered a possible meth lab in the basement.
      Authorities learned that Goughenour had recently moved into the home, and also learned from the Salem Police Department that Goughenour was “known to be involved in methamphetamine use.”
      On Mar. 4, members of the Boardman Police Department’s Narcotics Enforcement Unit (NEU), acting on a warrant signed by Boardman Court Judge Joseph Houser, searched the basement of the Glenwood Ave. home where they found a bottle of Heet, a can of Drain Out, a bottle of muriatic acid, a hot plate, an exhaust fan and venting tubing; coffee filters and two mason jars containing a clear liquid that was believed to be flammable; all items known to be used in the manufacture of meth.
      Det. Michael Dado said “the fire...was the result of a possible meth lab. In the area where the fire started was a plastic jug with a split down its side. Also near the jug was a bottle containing a commercial chemical thought to be used to manufacture methamphetamine...If the jug was not vented properly while manufacturing [the drug], the jug would explode and split down the side.”
      Dado described this type of meth manufacturing as ‘the one pot method.’
      According to Boardman Fire Department reports, on the day of the fire a man identified as Goughenour, and a woman identified as his girlfriend, Bethany Hoover, began moving into the home at 4:00 a.m.
      A neighbor told a Boardman Fire department arson investigator that “once the fire started, Goughenour came out of the house with a lot of soot on his face, stating he fell asleep with a cigarette.” The neighbor told the investigator that Goughenour then went back into the house, “then came out with a female and a dog.”
      The neighbor told the investigator that Goughenour stated “he was going to move the car to another driveway to get out of the fire department’s way, but instead left the scene.”
      According to an arson report, “Later in the day, Goughenour’s mother filed a missing persons report.”
      Almost two weeks after the fire, according to Boardman Fire Department records, Goughenour’s mother, Teresa Dutcher, of Salem, (owner of the home at 6614 Glenwood Ave.) informed Lt. James McCreary of the Boardman Fire Department “she found out that Goughenour was staying at her home with various female friends” and the pair had an argument and Goughenour left her home.
      “She wishes to have [her son] arrested,” McCreary said.
      According to Det. Mike Hughes, commander of the NEU, Goughenour was arrested last year in Seattle, Wash. and returned to Mahoning County after he was indicted by a grand jury for manufacturing drugs, possession of chemicals used to manufacture drugs, possession of drugs and two counts of aggravated arson.
      Columbiana County court records show that Goughenour was secretly indicted in 2015 on a charge of cultivating marihuana and was held there on a $150,000 bond.
  Boardman, Austintown, Mahoning County Form Joint Communications District  
  March 31, 2016 Edition  
     BY JOHN A. DARNELL JR.
      associate editor
      Meeting on Monday, Boardman Trustees agreed to participate into a regional council of governments that will oversee the creation of a new communications system throughout Mahoning County.
      The Council of Governments (COG) includes Boardman and Austintown Townships, as well as the Mahoning County Commissioners and calls for the establishment of a Joint Communications District.
      The new alliance is a groundbreaking event that signals a greater cooperation between county and townships officials, who for several decades have distanced themselves from county government, particularly the Mahoning County Sheriff’s Department.
      The new alliance calls for the consolidation of public resources “for cost efficiency and the avoidance of redundant systems.”
      Under the agreement, the county will provide upwards of $2 million, to be used for capital improvements at communication centers in Boardman and Austintown Townships.
      The county will also contribute upwards of $130,000 each to Boardman and Austintown Townships for additional personnel needed under the agreement for additional personnel costs.
      Also, 9-1-1 dispatch operations, currently provided by the county sheriff’s department, will be re-routed to communication centers in Boardman and Austintown. Costs for the re-routing will be paid by county government.
      Under terms of the new Joint Communications District, Boardman Township will provide dispatching services for the township, as well as Coitsville Township, Goshen Township, Lowellville Village, the county coroner, the county dog warden, the county EMA, New Middletown Village, Poland Village, Poland Township and Washingtonville Village.
      Austintown will provide dispatching for its township, as well as Berlin, Canfield, Ellsworth, Milton, Green and Jackson Townships and he villages of Craig Beach and Beloit.
      The Joint Communications District will be overseen by a three-member board, to include representative from Boardman and Austintown Townships, and the county sheriff’s department. Boardman Township Fiscal Officer Bill Leicht will oversee the new district’s finances.
      “This is a good deal for everyone involved,” Leicht said.
      Boardman Township Administrator Jason Loree said the agreement and capital improvements will improve the capabilities of emergency communications in Mahoning County.
      Townships, cities and villages currently not served by the communications district will have to pay their share of costs to join the system in the future, Loree said.
      “The concept of a joint communications district will provide for better and upgraded systems at little or no cost to Boardman Township,” Police Chief Jack Nichols said.
      Attending Monday morning’s meeting of Trustees, Mahoning County Sheriff Jerry Green, who said township and county officials have been working on the new concept for some time.
      “It was nice working with Chief Nichols and Administrator Loree,” Sheriff Green said, noting “We put our differences aside and worked on a project for the betterment of everyone in Mahoning County.”
  Shakirra, Purchased At Harbor Pet, Has Overcome A Multitude Of Problems  
  March 31, 2016 Edition  
Shakirra
     Here is a story that needs to be told about
      Harbor Pet in Boardman and my dog
      Shakirra:
      On June 2, 2014 I purchased a miniature American Eskimo I named Shakirra from Harbor Pet in Boardman, Ohio. I paid $1300 plus $91 tax and they came down from $1800.
      Just two days later, on June 4, I had to take her into my vet in Lisbon, Oh. because she had nasal discharge and was coughing. She was diagnosed with ‘kennel cough.’
      I called Harbor Pet to make aware them of this problem and they acted like it was no big deal. A girl said she would check the puppy that was in with her.
      Then on June 13, 2014 I took my older Lab, named Tater, to the same vet and he too was diagnosed with ‘kennel cough.’ On the same day I also took Shakirra back to the vet because her condition seemed to be worsening. My vet said to rush her to them right away. They did an x-ray and she was diagnosed with pneumonia from the kennel cough.
      Shakirra continued with the pneumonia. I had to take her to emergency a couple of times because she couldn’t breathe and stuff would flow out her nose every time she ate or drank anything. She would turn in circles, panic and cry out.
      When I took her to the emergency, they said I was just overreacting. I tried to say that wasn’t overreacting---that it was a nightmare and heartbreaking.
      Finally, the last time I took her to emergency, a different vet was on call and told me that I had to take Shakirra to a Pittsburgh vet because something was wrong with her throat.
      Finally someone listened.
      Well, I took her there and she stayed for a few days. They did all kinds of tests and found out what it was, and told me nothing could be done---no surgery, nothing.
      The vet told me that Shakirra had to have a feeding tube and that was the only that she could survive. Of course I had the surgery to insert a feeding tube and the surgery was $3500, I do believe. From there, it has been nightmare after nightmare---Shakirra’s first year of life was spent worrying that she wouldn’t make it. Her hair didn’t grow right and she didn’t play like a puppy should. She was sick all the time and all she did was lay around.
      I’m just going to tell you how she is now because I can’t get through this without crying. Her first year, the stress and heartache was horrible. But I loved this girl with all my heart and couldn’t send her back to Harbor Pet.
      I went to Harbor Pet personally before they found out what her problem is because I wanted reimbursed for my vet bills and I had a paper from the vet stating the problem. They didn’t even want to hear it and didn’t even want to see the paper because it didn’t matter. I was told that I didn’t go to their vet and I tried to explain to them that Shakirra was very sick and couldn’t drive her that far. I live seven minutes south of Lisbon and Harbor Pet said their vet was in Warren.
      So I had to take this extremely sick five pound puppy to Warren? No, I just couldn’t do it.
      Shakirra got her feeding tube and it was pure hell. She was improving, but still fighting the pneumonia. Shakirra had to have another surgery to get a new feeding tube, that is a dream compared to the first one. But, then I had to rush her to Pittsburgh two times late at night, and they kept her again and finally found out the second feeding tube had a leak. So I had to go back to the other tube until they got another one of those newer types of tubes. Shakirra had to go again to the vet and get the new feeding tube in again. Anyway, the new tube is now in and I have to feed Shakirra twice a day. It takes two hours each feeding. I’m supposed to do it three times, but I just don’t have the time. I have to buy special food which is approximately $100 a month. I have to put the food in a blender and add water to it or it won’t go through the tube. I have to buy syringes and new tubes that the food goes through. Shakirra has to wear a thunder shirt at all times to protect the tube and it is very hot and thunder shirts are very expensive. I have to buy new ones all the time because the velcro wears out. This is always going to be a big expense and I have approximately $12,000 in all of this and it will continue to get higher.
      Shakirra will always have this feeding tube. My vet told me that she won’t live long because the pneumonia will probably kill her.
      I have been given two options---put her down or see this through.
      Since he day I bought her, I was in love with her and I just couldn’t put her down.
      Today she has reached almost 14 lbs. and she is happy and playing. She still finds a crumb or something and turns in circles and blows it out her nose. Then she can’t breathe and I have to get her to relax and stretch her neck up so she can breathe. I take her almost everywhere with me because I am afraid to leave her alone.
      This doesn’t just affect her, it affects me too. I posted on Facebook what was going on with her because there are a lot of people concerned and saddened about all of this.
      Shakirra is now 2-years-old and going strong. She has been a trooper through all of this. I want to see that no one else has to go through the heartache Shakirra and I have gone through and will always go through.
      Gerri Brager
     
  Architectural Firm Seeks Payment For Mooney High School That Was Never Built  
  March 31, 2016 Edition  
     BY JOHN A. DARNELL JR.
      associate editor
      A Youngstown-based architectural firm has filed a suit in Mahoning County Common Pleas Court seeking compensation for work the architectural firm says it performed for a new high school building that was never built.
      Strollo Architects, 201 West Federal St., is suing the Youngstown Diocese, its Bishop, George Murry, as well as Cardinal Mooney High School, seeking $175,000.
      In the suit, Strollo says it is “entitled” to recover the value of services it performed for a new Mooney High School, charging it was prevented from completing work “by the unilateral act of Bishop Murry in canceling the project.”
      The suit claims that Strollo had “reason to expect compensation.”
      Cardinal Mooney High School, 2545 Erie St., Youngstown, Oh., was constructed in 1956 and the suit claims by 2012 “the poor condition of the...building and population shifts in Mahoning County led to discussion within the [Youngstown] Diocese as to whether the...building should be repaired, or [the high school] should move to a new building and location.”
      Architect Gregg Strollo, a 1973 graduate of Cardinal Mooney, says in the suit he had been “assisting with the upkeep of the crumbling 1956 building (Mooney High School) for nearly 20 years.”
      In earl march, 2012, Strollo says he made a presentation at a meeting of Diocesan clerical and lay leadership, presided over by the Bishop, where he enumerated comparative costs of either renovating the current building, or constructing a new school.
      According to the suit, Strollo says renovations at the building on Erie St. could have been as high as $18 million, while the cost of building a new school could “be as high as $28 million.”
      Strollo says he presented a conceptual design at the meeting.
      “The conceptual design was simply that, a concept for discussion, not a complete or usable blueprint,” says the law suit.
      On Sept., 2013, the suit says the Cardinal Mooney High School Board met and received a formal proposal for a new high school building, according to the law suit.
      “The proposal specifically required [Strollo Architects] to produce marketing materials...to conduct the fund-raising necessary to pay for the project. [Strollo Architects] was to procure floor plans with naming opportunities noted, exterior building elevations, perspective sketches from multiple station points and rendered site plans within 50 working days of notice to proceed from CMHS,” says the suit, noting the proposal was unanimously received.
      “The vote by the board to accept the proposal constituted the execution of a contract,” claims the suit.
      But, fund raising efforts to acquire monies to build the project had not been finalized, as the suit suggests “During Nov., 2013, major donor commitments began to be made...”
      And, by May 5, 2014, funding raising was reported at only $14 million, still short of the $23 million goal.
      A day later, Bishop Murry announced the project was cancelled.
      Strollo maintains it had a “reasonable expectation that it would be compensated.”
      That expectation was denied on Apr. 20,29015, when Patrick Kelly, chief financial officer of the Diocese, informed Strollo “because construction was never begun, it is the position of the Diocese that no contract have even been entered into.”
      The suit seeks $25,000 each on seven claims:
      •Breach of contract
      •Promissory estoppel (breach of promise)
      •Unjust enrichment (in that Strollo’s services and work prior to the cancellation ‘played an integral role in motivating the community to recommit itself to the future of Mooney High School’)
      •Ratification (the Bishop ratified the action of the Mooney HS board in retaining Strollo)
      •Negligent misrepresentation (Strollo claims it was informed it was being employed to design and build a new school)
      •Alter ego (control over Mooney HS by Bishop Murry, and by the Diocese as ruled by the Bishop was so complete that Mooney HS had no separate mind, will or existence of its own.
      •Implied contract (the actions of Strollo, the Bishop and Mooney HS manifested the formation of an implied contract).
      Strollo Architects have work on several projects in the Mahoning Valley, including the St. Elizabeth Health Center in Boardman, the Williamson College of Business Administration at Youngstown State University, and Struthers High School.”At no time did [Strollo} offer or promise to perform schematic work free of charge. At no time did the [CMHS] board, Bishop Murray or the Diocese state an exception that the work was to be performed free of charge...Neither was payment to [Strollo] contingent upon any factor,” says the suit.
  $51 Million Capital Program Unveiled For Boardman Schools  
  March 24, 2016 Edition  
      The Boardman Local School administration and the Ohio Facilities Construction Commission rolled out a $51 million plan to eliminate two elementary schools, West Blvd. and Market St., and build a school for all of the system’s fourth, fifth and sixth grade students, at a “Strategic Planning/Visioning” meeting held last week at Center Middle School.
      About 30 persons attended the meeting, mostly school officials and teachers.
      The plan included $14.1 million in renovations to Robinwood Lane Elementary School, and $13 million in renovations to Stadium Dr. Elementary Schools.
      Under the proposal, the two elementary schools would serve pre-kindergarten through third grade students.
      Fourth, fifth and six grade students would be housed in a new building on what local school officials call the “High School Campus.” Cost of the new building for those students was estimated at some $26.272 million, including demolition and asbestos abatement of the current Center Middle School that would cost some $1.38 million.
      Under guidelines of the Ohio Facilities Construction Commission, the Boardman Local School District’s taxpayers would have to pay 81 per cent of the $51 million in construction costs, while state aid would provide 19 per cent of the funding, or just $9.683 million.
      Funding for the local share of the cost of the project could come from a 28-year bond levy that could approximate less than two mills, Superintendent Frank Lazzeri said.
      The additional millage would add about $45 a year on tax duplicates per $100,000 valuation on property tax duplicates, Lazzeri said.
      “The Boardman Local School District is currently eligible for 19 per cent state aid for this project, according to the state’s planning standards,” Robert McAuliffe Jr., senior project manager for Hammond Construction, said.
      McAuliffe said that he and Lazzeri had also discussed the possibility of moving school board and administrative offices to Boardman High School.
      McAuliffe said that Market St. and West Blvd. Elementary School, as well as Center Middle School are “inefficient.”
      He said that state planning standards for the construction of a school building for fourth, fifth and sixth grade students would not allow for an auditorium, and suggested combining an auditorium and cafeteria into one ‘cafetorium.’
      McAuliffe laid out a timeline for funding and construction, including a ballot issue in Nov., 2017; a design phase, from Feb., 2018 to Feb., 2019; and a construction phase, from Mar., 2019 to Dec., 2020.
      Lazzeri suggested “it will be cheaper to run fewer buildings. We have to look at economics and efficiencies.”
      According to McAuliffe and Lazzeri, there are at least three risks to moving forward, including enrollment changes, cost changes and changes in the law.
      “If we upgrade out facilities, we feel we could bring students back to our school system,” Lazzeri said, noting the system had lost about 80 students to the South Range Local Schools that opened a new elementary through high school campus two years ago.
      Lazzeri also noted students have left the local district for charter schools, suggesting the impact of charter schools should be projected “ten years into the future.”
      Not all Boardman Local School Board members are aware of the $51 million plan, though some school officials suggest PTA units have already been informed of the capital improvement proposals.
      It was just two months ago the Boardman Local School Board approved a plan to realign its middle schools.
      For the 2016-17 school year, all fifth and sixth grade students will attend Center Middle School, and all seventh and eighth grade students will attend Glenwood Middle School.
      That alignment will change by 2021, if the proposal made last week gains school board and voter approval.
  Couple Spent $1400 At Harbor Pet Center For A Dog They Were Told Had Registration Papers  
  But Canfield Breeder Doesn’t Breed ‘Registered’ Dogs:   March 24, 2016 Edition  
     The following is the story of
      Christopher and Julia Karis, of Poland, and their purchase of a Weimaraner dog they call Chappie, from Harbor Pet Center,
      7338 Market St. in Boardman.
      “They lied to us about the now ‘Happy Chappie’ having AKC registration, after we made it clear that was our biggest concern before buying the puppy, probably asking the salesman nearly ten times or more,” Julia Karis said.
      Her husband, Christopher, details the story from there:
      On Feb. 23, my wife Julia, and I decided to stop in Harbor Pet in Boardman because we needed Gill rot and a net for our Betta fish. We had a busy day, and it was the closest pet store on our way home.
      We wanted to run in quick and looked for the products we needed when I noticed that there were a few Weimaraner puppies in the window. I called for my wife in another aisle to come over and look at them with me.
      We already had an almost 4-month-old UKC Purple Pedigree-registered American Gascon Blue Tick Coonhound Hound female at home. We had been wanting a Weimaraner and had spoken about getting one after we are more settled both personally, and as a married couple.
      I asked a young salesman...the price of one particular male Weimaraner with blue eyes that was in the same cage as a spotted Great Dane puppy. We noticed the male Weimaraner had a sore on his left back leg. The salesman said the price of the ‘Weim’ was $1,399.99 and he was ‘on sale’ for $100 off for Harbor Pet Club members.
      After hearing the price we decided to keep moving and began walking away because we knew that was high. The salesman proceeded to go in the back and he came out with the puppy we liked in his arms and brought him to us without us asking to see him.
      The first question out of my mouth was, “Does this dog have papers? Is it registered?” My wife interrupted before he could answer, “We will only be interested if the Weim has papers, we are absolutely not interested if he does not.”
      The salesman replied, “The puppy does not have registration through Harbor Pet. To be honest with you both, the breeder who is local and from Canfield, wanted $500 more per dog to sell the puppies with the registration papers so we did not buy them with it. The company wouldn’t make any money if we were to buy them at $500 more per dog so they declined. The parents are both AKC registered and you can go directly to the breeder to get them. He may charge a fee for them at most.”
      The salesman showed us the breeder’s name and address in the adoption certificate, pointed to it, and in his words said “just show up on his doorstep.”
      We asked a few questions, including one asking about a sore on the dog’s leg.
      The salesman told us the sore was from the Dane the ‘Weim’ was caged with, was chewing on [our] dog and to put neosporine on it.
      We kept coming back to our main concern---making sure we could get registration, a pedigree, and lineage for the puppy, especially at the sale price of $1399.99. We knew he was overpriced at that, but the puppy immediately began o grow on us.
      Still, my wife and I asked the salesman at least five times, if not more, about the papers, and each time he gave us the same confident answer, ‘you can get them directly from the breeder no problem.’
      My wife and I discussed purchasing the puppy outside in the parking lot and we agreed to buy the dog since the salesman had assured us that getting AKC papers was not an issue. We proceeded with the paperwork and didn’t have any issues signing that we knew we weren’t getting registration through Harbor Pet.
      Within the first week of purchasing ‘Chappie,’ our male Weimaraner puppy settled in and was welcomed into our home, and to his initial vet appointments with Dr.Singh in Canfield (to keep standing with the warranty from Harbor Pet).
      Next, we decided to start working on tracking down the breeder so we could get his official registration paperwork submitted.
      And, my wife happened to be speaking to a friend of hers and showed her our new puppy because her friend also had a Weimaraner. Julia told her how we purchased ‘Chappie’ from Harbor Pet Center in Boardman and we paid a lot money for him, that he was well-overpriced, and we were soon going to be getting a hold of the breeder for his AKC registration )as we were verbally directed and assured by Harbor Pet).
      My wife’s friend replied noting she knew a weimaraner breeder who lived in Canfield. She said “if it’s the same breeder I could have got you the puppy for $350, or a little more. Turns out it was the breeder indeed.
      We messaged the breeder and within 15 minutes, he called us. We were so happy and excited to hear from him so we could finally get the paperwork we were promised for our $1500 purebred Weimaraner.
      I told the breeder how we had recently purchased his male Weim from Harbor Pet and how they told us to find him, gave us his name and address, and said we could get Chappie’s AKC papers from him, for at most a charge.
      The breeder was shocked by the sound of his voice, and he proceeded to say neither of our dog’s parents had any type of registration, and there is absolutely no paperwork for his puppies, nor have they ever been registered. The breeder told us he wasn’t sure why the Harbor Pet salesman would have told us that, adding that he sells his dogs as pets only, with no papers. He said he would be in contact with Harbor Pet immediately to discuss this.
      I let my wife speak to him before we got off the phone with him. She was very upset and repeated the story with what the salesman had assured us with concerning the registration papers, and how we never would have budgeted the cost for ‘Chappie’ if we knew he had no papers.
      After speaking with the breeder, we decided to immediately drive to Harbor Pet Center to address this matter, feeling we had been highly deceived, lied to, and were told fraudulent information in order for us to agree to purchase Chappie.
      My wife stood witness to everything the salesman verbally told us and assured us, and it was all a big fat lie---my wife and I knowing and signing six documents in store acknowledging we knew ‘Chappie’ was unregistered through Harbor Pet---but we were told over and over to go to the local breeder for them.
      Registrations prove the puppy’s lineage, and ancestry, to personally make sure for piece of mind the puppies are not inbred and their bill of health checked out based on ancestry.
      We had purchased a registered Purple Ribbon Gascon Blue Tick Hound for hunting and planned on taking our new ‘AKC’ Weimaraner puppy along for all the registered hunts!!! Weimaraners have a long lifespan and we thought about having our future children showing him at the Canfield Fair and in 4-H if they wanted.
      My wife and I walked into the store holding ‘Chappie’ when we asked to speak with the part-owner of Harbor Pet, Amanda McLaughlin.
      Mclaughlin met us, yelling ‘I had to get their paperwork.’
      She said that she just got off the phone with the breeder so she already know what was going on, and she had spoken with the salesman who denied ever telling us ‘any of that.’ She said our stories were contradicting and Harbor Pet had six pieces of paper we signed saying we knew the dogs were unregistered. She barely even let my wife and I tell her that was not the case.
      By her side was Ray Greenwood, an ex Struthers cop who was fired for inappropriate conduct of his duties on the force, defended McLaughlin.
      We told McLaughlin how we emphasized the importance of being able to obtain papers, and how over and over again the salesman told us the same story how Harbor Pet declined purchasing the puppies with their AKC paperwork because the breeder wanted $500 more per dog and at that cost the company would not make money so they declined. The salesman repeatedly assured us as having papers and registration was our only concern, we made it very clear from the beginning we would not be interested if he had no papers.
      The part owner and store manager McLaughlin began to get angry, defending her salesman, questioning why we needed papers in the first place. She offered no solutions, she just kept repeating herself, and it soon turned to her becoming very unprofessional and rude.
      I told her they lied to us big time and we would have never purchased the dog at that price, for that amount of money and we would be contacting our lawyer and filing a civil suit in Boardman if need be. She continued yelling at us, disrespecting us, etc., so we left.
      We did speak to an attorney and he told my wife and I that there are laws in Ohio to protect consumers against situations such as this; and there are laws against selling paperwork and registration separate from puppies to begin, and there are laws against deception and leading consumers to believe something that is fraudulent or faulty.
      My wife and I are newly married, we work very hard for everything we have and have achieved since we have changed our lives and joined together in marriage. We pride ourselves on working hard, doing good, and good will come back to you.
      We were lied to repeatedly, and suckered into a purchase that we never would have made had we known that real truth. We do not have our own children yet, our Gascon pup, and now our Weimaraner ‘Chappie’ are our kids. We love them so much are very, very proud of our dogs.
      It is truly disgusting and insulting to us that Harbor Pet lied, just to make a few dollars. ‘Chappie’ has become part of our family, a brother to our coonhound, ‘Jill,’ and child to us, and we were bamboozled for a very large amount of money, to us at least.
      We never would have bought an unregistered dog, ever knowingly.
      But ‘Chappie’ has become part of our family. ‘Jill’ loves him and so do we.
      Harbor Pet lied to sell this puppy and it’s a shame this happened to my wife and I.
      When we first brought ‘Chappie’ home he was shy and scared, and seemed almost traumatized by being caged with the Great Dane. He hid in corners and the back of his cage with no facial expressions or reactions to anything.
      It has taken a lot of love to turn him around.
  LEGAL NOTICE  
  March 10, 2016 Edition  
     NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING
      The Boardman Township Board of Appeals shall hold a Public Hearing on Tuesday, March 22, 2016 at 7:00 P.M., at the Boardman Township Government Center, 8299 Market Street, Boardman Township, Ohio, 44512, for consideration of the following cases:
      APPEAL CASE AC-2016-06
      Lawrence R Liguore, Anvic LLC, 140 Newport Drive, Boardman Ohio 44512, property owner, requests a conditional use permit under the terms of Article XVI of the Boardman Township Zoning Resolution, effective May 29, 2012, in order to lease space for “The Lost Crate”, a business proposing the sale of used and refurbished furniture, listed as a conditional use in Article XIX Land Use Tables. The request is for property located at 6241 Market Street, the Rosewood Centre, Lot 52 of the Beil and Vogelberger Plat, Parcel Number 29-004-0-047.00-0. Said property is zoned Commercial in Boardman Township, Mahoning County, State of Ohio.
      APPEAL CASE AC-2016-07
      James J. Mahoney, AES Surveying and Land Planning, 730 Bev Road Unit 1, Boardman Ohio 44512, applicant on behalf of the property owner, Lorraine L Bendel, 7737 Amberwood Trail, Boardman, Ohio 44512, requests a variance as per the terms of Article XVI of the Boardman Township Zoning Resolution in order to construct a Planned Unit Development consisting of five (5) total units, proposed to be located on Lot 87 and 88 of the Auburn Hills Plat, on the east right-of-way of Walnut Street approximately 220’ north of the Amberwood Trail – Walnut Street intersection. Said property is also known as parcel 29-040-0-400.00-0 and 29-040-387.00-0, and is zoned Residential R-2 in Boardman Township, Mahoning County, State of Ohio.
      APPEAL CASE AC-2016-08
      Edward D. Muransky, EDD Properties, LLC, 7629 Market Street, Suite 200, Boardman, Ohio 44512, property owner, requests a conditional use permit under the terms of Article XVI of the Boardman Township Zoning Resolution, effective May 29, 2012, in order to lease space for an antique store selling secondhand items to be operated by JAK B Inc., dba Mr. Darby’s, listed as a conditional use in Article XIX Land Use Tables. The request is for property located at 8574 Market Street, Unit 1 of the Woodworth Reserve Condominium, Parcel Number 29-096-0-006.08-0. Said property is zoned Commercial in Boardman Township, Mahoning County, State of Ohio.
      APPEAL CASE AC-2016-09
      John Salvador, Ohio Shows Inc., 200 Amber Dr S.E., Warren Ohio 44484, applicant on behalf of the property owner Ashvin Yajnik, 3223 Belmont Avenue, Youngstown, Ohio 44505, requests a conditional use permit as per the terms of Article XVI of the Boardman Township Zoning Resolution, effective May 29, 2012, in order to operate a Hunting and Outdoor Show which will include the sale of secondhand items, identified as a Conditional Use in Article XIX Land Use Tables, proposed to be held on April 9 and 10, October 1 and 2, November 5 and 6 and December 17 and 18, all dates in 2016. Property is located at 6151 South Avenue, Mathews Square Plaza, also known as Parcel Number 29-020-0-305.01-0. Said property is zoned Commercial in Boardman Township, Mahoning County, State of Ohio.
      Text and maps of the request may be viewed at the Boardman Township Zoning Office, 8299 Market Street, Boardman, Ohio, 44512, Monday through Friday, between the hours of 8:00 A.M. and 4:00 P.M. until time of the hearing.
      Atty. John Shultz, Chairman
      Boardman Township Board of Appeals
      Sarah Gartland, Zoning Inspector
     
  LEGAL NOTICE  
  March 10, 2016 Edition  
     LEGAL NOTICE
      The Board of Trustees of Boardman Township shall conduct a Public Hearing on the following amendments to the Boardman Township Zoning Resolution and Township Zoning Map on Monday, March 28, 2016 at 10:45 A.M. in the Marie P. DeBartolo Meeting Room, Boardman Township Government Center, 8299 Market Street, Boardman, Ohio, 44512. Texts and map of the proposed changes may be viewed in the Zoning Office, same address, between the hours of 8:00 A.M. and 4:00 P.M. Monday through Friday, until the time of the Hearing.
      This is the final hearing in determination of this case. The Board shall act either immediately or within twenty (20) days of the hearing date.
      AMENDMENT A-2016-01
      Boardman Township, 8299 Market Street, Boardman, Ohio, 44512, has initiated an amendment to the Boardman Township Zoning Resolution for typographical and organizational changes throughout the resolution, and content changes in Articles 3, 8, 9, 10, 11, 12, 13, 14, and 17.
      AMENDMENT A-2016-03
      Pursuant to Article XVI, Section F, Part a, Number 1 of the Boardman Township Zoning Resolution, as amended through May 29, 2012, concerning the initiation of amendments to the Township Zoning Resolution, the Board of Trustees of Boardman Township find it necessary to initiate hearings to amend the Boardman Township Zoning Resolution and Township Zoning Map to reclassify and rezone the following 175 parcels of real property from Residential R-2 Districts to Residential R-1 Districts:
      44 Parcels along Ridgewood Drive
      13 Parcels along Gilbert Drive
      18 Parcels along Stillson Place
      23 Parcels along Withers Drive
      21 Parcels along Griswold Drive
      29 Parcels along Brainard Drive
      26 Parcels along Wolcott Drive
      The vacated portion of Shale Drive on Withers Drive
      All properties are located in Boardman Township, Mahoning County, State of Ohio
      Larry P. Moliterno, Chair
      Board of Trustees, Boardman Township
      Sarah Gartland, Zoning Inspector
  Where To Vote In The March 15 Primary Elections  
  March 10, 2016 Edition  
      Precinct 1: Georgeanna Parker Activity Center in Boardman Park.
       Precinct 2: Boardman Township Government Center, 8299 Market St.
       Precinct 3: Trinity Fellowship Church, 4749 South Ave.
       Precinct 4: Bethel Lutheran Church, 425 Crestview Dr.
       Precinct 5: Good Hope Lutheran Church, 98 Homestead Dr.
       Precinct 6: St. Johns Greek Orthodox Church, 4955 Glenwood Ave.
       Precinct 7: Good Hope Lutheran Church, 98 Homestead Dr.
       Precinct 8: Calvary Baptist Church, 1463 Shields Rd.
       Precinct 9: Bardman United Methodist Church, 6809 Market St.
       Precinct 10: Paul C. Bunn School, 1825 Sequoya Dr.
       Precinct 11: Bethel Lutheran Church, 425 Crestview Dr.
       Precinct 12: Calvary Baptist Church, 1463 Shields Rd.
       Precinct 13: Georgeanna Parker Activity Center in Bardman Park.
       Precinct 14: Trinity Fellowship Church, 4749 South Ave.
       Precinct 15: Trinity Fellowship Chuch, 4749 South Ave.
       Precinct 16: Bethel Lutheran Church, 425 Crestview Dr.
       Precinct 17: St. John Greek Orthodox Church, 4955 Glenwood Ave.
       Precinct 18: Boardman United Methodist Church, 6809 Market St.
       Precinct 19: Trinity Fellowship Church, 4749 South Ave.
       Precinct 20: Lockwood United Mthodist Church, 4570 Lockwood Blvd.
       Precinct 21: Boardman Township Government Center, 8299 Market St.
       Precinct 22: St. Mary’s Byzantine Catholic Church, 7782 Glenwood Ave.
       Precinct 23: Boardman Township Government Center, 8299 Market St.
       Precinct 24: St. Mary’s Byzantine Catholic Church, 7782 Glenwood Ave.
       Precinct 25: Poland United Methodist Church, 1940 Boardman Poland Rd.
       Precinct 26: St. Mary’s Byzantine Catholic Church, 7782 Glenwood Ave.
       Precinct 27: Paul C. Bunn School, 1825 Sequoya Dr.
       Precinct 28: Lockwood United Methodict Church, 4570 Lockwood Blvd.
       Precinct 29: The Commons at the Greenbriar, 8060 South Ave.
       Precinct 30: Trinity Fellowship Church, 4749 South Ave.
       Precinct 31: Poland United Methodist Church, 1940 Boardman Poland Rd.
       Precinct 32: Lockwood United Methodist Church, 4570 Lockwood Blvd.
       Precinct 33: St. Mary’s Byzantine Catholic Church, 7782 Glenwood Ave.
       Precinct 34: St. Mary’s Byzantine Catholic Church, 7782 Glenwood Ave.
       Precinct 35: St. Mary’s Byzantine Catholic Church, 7782 Glenwood Ave.
       Precinct 36: Boardman United Methodist Church, 6809 Market St.
       Precinct 37: Calvary Baptist Church, 1463 Shields Rd.
  Boardman Native Tom Conroy Musical Director Of Big Band Show Set At Packard Mar. 22  
  March 10, 2016 Edition  
THOMAS P. CONROY
     A celebration of America’s Big Band era, In the Mood, will come to the Packard Music Hall in Warren on Tues., Mar. 22. The curtain goes up at 7:30 p.m.
      In the Mood celebrates America’s greatest generation through the music of Glenn Miller, Tommy Dorsey, Artie Shaw, Benny Goodman, Harry James, Erskine Hawkins, The Andrews Sisters, Frank Sinatra and other idols of the 1940s, the last time when Americans listened and danced to the same style of music.
      The show is entering its 22nd season, making it a phenomenon among touring shows, and has played around the world, including Canada, New Zealand, Australia and the Netherlands.
      Musical director and pianist for the show is Boardman native, Thomas P. Conroy, whose performing roots began with productions at Boardman High School that were under the direction of the legendary William P. Dykins. He was also was featured in several performances at the Youngstown Playhouse; and served as music director and organist at St. Michael Parish in Canfield and at St. Columba Cathedral in Youngstown. Conroy also played organ for services at St. Maron Church when he was in high school under the direction of long-time friend and an important musical influence, Denise Abbas, who still teaches music in the Youngstown city schools.
      Conroy is a 1986 graduate of Boardman High School, and his father, John P. Conroy, still lives here on Edenridge Dr.
      Following his graduation from Youngstown State University’s Dana School of Music, Conroy moved to New York City, and began working in summer stock, regional theater and in national touring shows.
      He has lived and worked all around America.
      Conroy’s recent shows include: Company at Clark University in Worcester, Mass.; Evita and Little Shop of Horrors at Music Theatre of Connecticut; Xanadu on Hilton Head Island, South Carolina; and The Last Five Years at Shadowlands Theatre in the Catskills. He toured (as an actor/singer/dancer) nationally with Grease, Kiss of the Spiderwoman, Crazy For You and Cabaret.
      Conroy sang back-up for Bernadette Peters at the Orpheum in San Francisco and toured with the Paris Lido in a specialty act. He earned his doctorate in composition at Rice University and a masters degree in composition at the San Francisco Conservatory of Music. He taught harmony, musicianship, and counterpoint at Texas A & M University, the University of Houston, and the San Francisco Conservatory of Music.
      Conroy is a recent graduate of St. John’s College Great Books Masters program and taught introduction to philosophy, philosophy of religion, and introduction to ethics at Ivy Tech Community College. He is a continuing avid student of Homeric and ancient Greek.
      His recent composition performances include his homage to choral music teachers and conductors, This is Why I Sing, which was premiered by the Houston Chamber Choir and has been featured on NPR; and his string quartet, Vespers at Sacré-Couer. The newest works in his catalog include The Brodie Set, a song cycle based on Muriel Spark’s novella, The Prime of Miss Jean Brodie, and a new musical, Bodice.
      “This job has given me the opportunity to play the music my parents loved and taught me: 1940s jazz, the Dorsey bands, Artie Shaw, Glen Miller, the Andrew Sisters, and others... All of it played on our radio on Saturday and Sunday mornings. Many family stories around our dining table recounted the times my dad heard these bands live, even in some downtown Youngstown venues. I am so proud to bring this show to Warren and to have him and other family and friends in the audience,” Conroy told The Boardman News.
      For tickets, call the Packard box office at 330-841-2931.
      PICTURED:  THOMAS P. CONROY, who grew-up on Edenridge Dr., will be the musical director and pianist for the one-show production of In the Mood, Mar. 22 at the Packard Music Hall in Warren. As a child, he accompanied choral groups at Glenwood Middle under Karen Lyn Fisher and then at Boardman High School under Errol Kherberg. His first piano teacher, still in the area, was Terry Soroka.
  BPJWL Hosts Farewell to Downton Abbey Tea Mar. 19  
  March 10, 2016 Edition  
     The Boardman-Poland Junior Women’s League will host a “Farewell to Downton Abbey Tea” which will benefit The Dorothy Day House. The Downton Abbey Tea will take place at The Poland Presbyterian Church, 2 Poland Manor Dr., Poland, on Sat., Mar. 19 at 1:00 p.m. Cost is $20/person. The tea includes lunch, special herbal teas, a basket auction, a contest for the best costume from the Downton era and more. Kathy Richert will present ‘Downton Abbey Visits Biltmore Estate.’ For tickets, donations, or more information, contact Sperry Rongone at (330)770-3880 or srongone@gmail.com., or any league member. A limited amount of tickets are available. A portion of the proceeds will be given to PBS. Pictured left to right are Sperry Rongone, “Farewell To Downton Abbey Tea” chairwoman and BPJWL treasurer; Yvonne Ford, GFWC Ohio Director of Junior Clubs and BPJWL second vice-president and program yearbook; Joyce Martin, provisional member; Nina Lowery, BPJWL president; Tina Bellino, home life and international and public affairs; Linda Crish, GFWC second vice-president and BPJWL first vice-president and membership chairwoman; Debbie Weaver, community special needs and president-elect; and Debbie Chop, publicity and recording secretary.
  United Way Annual Meeting April 14  
  March 10, 2016 Edition  
      The United Way of Youngstown and the Mahoning Valley’s Annual Meeting will be held on Thurs., Apr. 14 at 5:00 p.m. at the Lake Club, 1140 Paulin Rd., Poland, to celebrate their accomplishments in 2015 and honor their donors and volunteers. Sponsored by Talmer Bank & Trust.
      The dinner buffet and Annual Meeting Program cost is $40 per person or $320 for table of 8. Awards are sponsored by National Lease.
      Register online at www.ymvunitedway.org or mail RSVP, to United Way, 255 Watt St., Youngstown, OH 44503. For more inforamtion call 330-746-8494 or email Rsebest@ymvunitedway.org.
  The American Cancer Society To Hold Cattle Baron’s Ball April 2  
  March 10, 2016 Edition  
      The American Cancer Society is pleased to announce the 10th Annual Cattle Baron’s Ball will be held on Apr. 2, at The Lake Club.
      The Cattle Baron’s Ball is one of the American Cancer Society’s premiere events, including dinner, live and silent auctions, live entertainment and more! This year’s event will be disco themed and honor cancer survivor Steve Burbrink of Austintown and medical honoree Dr. Rashid Abdu of Canfield. Our special honored returning guests are both children who have survived cancer: 8 year old Brett Wilcox of Boardman and 8 year old Ava Timko of Canfield.
      Survivor honoree Steve Burbrink of Austintown has worked at General Motors since 1977 and has a second career in entertainment as a DJ, owner of DJ Stevie B’s DJ Company. He is married, has two children and two grandchildren. In October 2012, Burbrink was diagnosed with an aggressive form of prostate cancer. He is currently in his fourth year of recovery. He is a board member for Man Up Mahoning Valley, an organization educating about prostate cancer and a facilitator for the local Prostate Cancer Support Group.
      Medical honoree Dr. Rashid Abdu of Canfield is a retired Mercy Health surgeon whose wife, Joanie, was diagnosed with breast cancer in 1993 and passed away during her fight. Dr. Abdu worked tirelessly to create a comprehensive breast care center in our community to honor his wife’s memory and help others fight breast cancer. Dr. Abdu and Mercy Health cut the ribbon to the Joanie Abdu Comprehensive Breast Care Center at St. Elizabeth Health Center in Youngstown in November 2011. He spent 20 years planning, researching and providing funding for the project before his dream came true.
      This year’s event chairwomen Carole Weimer of Youngstown and Annette Camacci of Poland work alongside a volunteer committee to raise funds for the American Cancer Society.
      “In 2015, the Tri-County Cattle Baron’s Ball raised $90,000 for your American Cancer Society. The money that is raised through this event funds research, educates our community and funds programs and services such as “Road to Recovery,” which provides rides for patients going through treatments right here in the valley. We were very pleased and grateful to have been so successful,” Camacci said.
      This year’s evening will include gourmet dining, live and silent auctions, music and fun-filled activities. WHOT’s AC McCullough and Kelly Stevens will be the Master and Mistress of Ceremonies for the evening. Brooks Ames will be the auctioneer. A VIP celebration for honorees and sponsors will take place from 6-7.
      T his event is made possible through the generous support of event sponsors Something New Floral-Joe Mineo Creative, Nautilus, Stairmaster and Star Trac.
      The event is still seeking sponsors. For sponsorship opportunities, tickets or more information, contact Jamie Heinl at the American Cancer Society at 330-414-7412 or email Jamie.heinl@cancer.org.
  Spring Is The Time To Enjoy Paws Town A Members Only Dog Park In Boardman Park  
  March 10, 2016 Edition  
      Looking for your pet to be healthier and happier this year? Spring is on the way and it’s a perfect time for you and your dog to enjoy the benefits of the outdoors by joining the Marge Hartman’s Paws Town Dog Park at Boardman Park.
      Whether you and your dog like to exercise, socialize or just enjoy the fresh air, you can do so without concern at Paws Town Dog Park. Since Paws Town first opened it has been Boardman Park’s goal to provide a fun, social and safe environment where dogs, both big and small, are able to play off leash. Being a member’s only dog park enables us to accomplish this.
      Members of Paws Town have told us they have peace of mind knowing that all dogs in the dog park are vaccinated and registered with the county. Also, the double gate entry system allows you to unleash your dog after entering but before interacting with other dogs, our lawn is well maintained, and our caretakers patrol the area several times a day and are just a phone call away.
      The 3.25 acre fenced in Dog Park has separate fenced in areas for large and small dogs, water fountains, a dog wash station, benches, small shade trees, and dog waste bags.
      One year memberships to Paws Town are available for 2016-2017. Memberships will be valid from date of purchase through March 31, 2017. Memberships for Boardman Residents will be $40 for one dog and $10 for each additional dog. Non-Boardman Resident fee will be $65 for one dog and $10 for each additional dog. Membership packets may be picked up at the Boardman Park Office-Monday-Friday from 8am-5pm, in the outdoor literature boxes at the Dog Park or online at boardmanpark.com.
      Allow your dog to meet new friends while getting the exercise they need by trying out the Dog Park with our one day pass. One day passes are available for $5. Bring your dog’s shot records on your Veterinarian’s letter head, rabies and county tag numbers and enjoy a day with your “best friend” at Paws Town.
      If you would like to purchase a tree, in honor of or in memory of your dog, to be planted in Paws Town, forms can be picked up at the Park Office. For more information on Paws Town please call the Park office at 330-726-8105.
  Good Friday Breakfast Service At Downtown YMCA Mar. 25  
  March 3, 2016 Edition  
      Lent is in full swing and the Central YMCA in downtown Youngstown. Everything is lined up for this year’s Good Friday Breakfast Service. Sponsored by the Y’s Spiritual Emphasis Committee, the service will be held inside the community gym on the second floor on Fri., Mar. 25, from 7:15 to 8:45 a.m.
      Breakfast will be served buffet style by Sandy’s Deli at 7:15 a.m., with the service beginning promptly at 8 a.m. Pastor Sean Kelly, lead minister of Greenford Christian Church will deliver this year’s Good Friday message, and attendees will be treated to a live performance by Alyssa Morucci of Poland. Morucci, a junior at Poland Seminary High School, is an 11-year cheerleading veteran, a member of Real Living Ministries and is part of the praise team. She has worked part time at the Davis Family YMCA service desk for the past year.
      “I love interacting with people, and my role at the desk gives me many opportunities to engage with others,” she says.
      This past February, Morucci’s singing talents took her to Chicago, where she auditioned for “The Voice” television show.
      The Y has held the service for more than 40 years, with bishops, pastors, priests and lay people delivering inspirational messages that have become quite memorable, says the Y’s executive director, Mike Shaffer. It has become a tradition that many in the community look forward to, he says.
      “Many churches, businesses and families now look forward to this event as a meaningful way to start their Easter weekend,” Shaffer says. “Please join us as we celebrate the Resurrection of our Lord Jesus Christ in this ecumenically diverse setting.”
      The public is invited to attend this year’s Good Friday Breakfast with tickets purchased in advance. Attendees can purchase individual tickets for $12, or reserve a table of eight for $85.
      To order tickets, call Patty Tchoryk at 330-742-4781.
  Empowering Women - Women Inspiring Women  
  Thurs., April 21 At Boardman Park:   March 3, 2016 Edition  
      Empowering Women, The Mahoning Valley Chapter, will present a special program of Women Inspiring Women, on Thurs., Apr. 21 from 6:00 p.m. to 7:30 p.m. in the Boardman Park Rotary Room, 375 Boardman-Poland Rd., Boardman.
      Special Guests will include: Jill Cox, RN, Executive Director at Paisley House; Maria Stevens, Owner/President at Stevens Coaching & Consulting, LLC; and Constance Pedron, Professional Coach, Speaker & Gifted Mediator.
      Attendees are encouraged to bring gardening tools and gardening gloves to be donated to the Paisley House. For a special treat to beat the summer heat, the residents at Paisley House love their Handels Ice Cream, so Handel’s tokens would be greatly appreciated!
      Hors d’oeuvres and refreshments from our very own Lariccia’s Italian Market will be served.
      Cost is $10. Make checks payable to Compco Industries and mailed to 400 West Railroad St., Columbiana, OH 44408 Attn: Tina Orr or go to Eventbrite.com type in the search: “ Empowering Women-Women Inspiring Women” and register on-line.
      Like us on facebook.com/empoweringwomanmahoningvalley. Check out our event page for the link to sign up online!
  PUBLIC NOTICE  
  February 29, 2016 Edition  
     PUBLIC NOTICE
      To: General Public
      From: Mark A. Pitzer, Fire Chief
      Reference: 2015 Intemational Fire Code
      At a regularly scheduled Boardman Township Trustees meeting held on February 8th, 2016, at 5:30 PM, the Board of Trustees passed the attached resolution regarding the adoption ofthe latest fire code.
      The Board of Trustees approved, based on the recommendation of Fire Chief Mark A. Pitzer, thE adoption of the 2015 International Fire Code.
      This resolution and adoption of code replaces the existing 2003 International Fire Code that has been enforced in Boardman Township.
      This PUBLIC NOTICE serves as a 30 day notice of the enforcement of this code. The 2015 International Fire Code will begin to be enforced on March 10, 2016.
      Copies of the 2015 International Fire Code is on file at the Boardman Township Administrative Building located at 8299 Market Street and at the main fire station located at 136 Boardman-Poland
      Rd.
      Mark A. Pitzer
      Fire Chief
      www.boardmantownship.com
      8299 Market Street· Boardman, Ohio
      Trustees: Brad Calhoun, Thomas P. Costello,
      Larry Moliterno
      At a duly held meeting of the Board of Trustees of Boardman Township, Mahoning County,
      Ohio held on February 8, 2016 at 5: 30 p.m. at the Boardman Township Government Center, 8299 Marke Street, the following Resolution to Adopt the 2015 International Fire Code, including all appendices, for Boardman Township, Mahoning County, Ohio was adopted.
      Motion was made by Brad Calhoun to adopt the following Resolution:
      WHEREAS, in order to properly protect the health, safety and welfare of the inhabitants of Boardman Township, this Board finds it necessary and advisable to adopt a standard code pertaining to fire, fire hazards and fire prevention; and
      WHEREAS, it is the intent of this Board to adopt, pursuant to R.C. 505.373, the 2015
      International Fire Code in its entirety, including all appendices;
      THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED by the Board of Trustees of Boardman Township, Mahoning County, Ohio, that:
      SECTION 1. That pursuant to R.C. 505.373, the Board hereby adopts the 2015 International Fire
      Code in its entirety, including all appendices, as the standard code peltaining to fire, fue hazards and fire prevention in Boardman Township, Mahoning County, Ohio. A complete copy of the code,
      including all appendices, is attached to and incorporated by reference in this resolution.
      SECTION 2. That all other Resolutions in conflict herewith are hereby repealed.
      SECTION 3. That Boardman Township, Mahoning County, Ohio is not making any amendments or deletions to the 2015 International Fire Code.
      SECTION 4. That nothing in this Resolution or in the 2015 International Fire Code, including all appendices, hereby adopted shall be construed to affect any suit or preceding pending in any court, or any rights acquired or liability incurred, or any cause of action acquired or existing, prior to the
      enactment of this Resolution. However, all such prior actions are expressly subject to codes in effect at the time the cause of action arose.
      SECTION 5. That the Fiscal Officer is directed to:
      a. Maintain a complete copy of the 2015 International Fire Code in its entirety, including all appendices, on file in the Office of the Boardman Township Fiscal Officer, for inspection by the public;
      b. Keep copies of the 2015 International Fire Code in its entirety, including all appendices, available for distribution to the public at cost;
      c. Certify a copy of this resolution, together with a complete copy of the 2015 International Fire Code in its entirety, including all appendices, to the Mahoning County Law Library, 120 Market Street, Youngstown Ohio, 44503, to be kept on file there; and
      d. Post notice of adoption of the 2015 International Fire Code in its entirety, including all appendices, in five conspicuous places in the Township for at least 30 days, and also cause such notice to be published in a newspaper of general circulation in the Township once a week for three consecutive weeks. The notice shall clearly identify the code and state its purpose, and state that complete copies of the 2015 International Fire Code in its entirety, including all appendices, are on file with the Boardman Township Fiscal Officer and the
      Mahoning County Law Library for inspection by the public, and that the Fiscal Officer has copies available for distribution to the public at cost.
      SECTION 6. The 2015 International Fire Code in its entirety, including all appendices, shall become effective and apply throughout the Township on the 31st day following the day the above notice is first posted in the Township.
      Motion to adopt the Resolution was seconded by Mr. Thomas P. Costello.
      Mr. Costello- aye
      Mr. Calhoun-aye
      Mr. Moliterno-aye
      RESOLUTION ADOPTED This 8th day of February, 2016 by Boardman Township Trustees, mahoning County, Ohio.
      ATTEST:
      William D. Leicht, Fiscal Officer
      CERTIFICATION
      I, William D. Leicht, Fiscal Officer of Boardman Township, do hereby certify that the foregoing Resolution is taken from the Minutes of Boardman Township at a meeting duly held February 8, 2016 and that the same has been compared by me with the original Resolution of said minutes, and that said resolution is a true and correct copy thereof.
  Civic Association Will Honor Denise And John York  
  Making A Difference In The Lives of Others:   by BY JOHN A. DARNELL JR. associate editor   February 25, 2016 Edition  
     The co-chairmen of the San Francisco 49ers, Denise and John York, will be honored on Mon., Mar 14 with the Distinguished Citizens Award presented by the Boardman Civic Association during the organization’s quarterly dinner meeting at 6:30 p.m. at the Lariccia Family Center in Boardman Park.
      The Yorks first met on a blind date in South Bend, Indiana when Denise was attending St. Mary’s College and John was a student at Notre Dame. They were married in 1978 and moved to Boardman where John founded DeYor Laboratories and Denise worked with her father at the Edward J. DeBartolo Corp., a pioneer in the development of shopping malls in America. She served as president of the Pittsburgh Penguins hockey team when they won Stanley Cup titles in 1991 and 1992.
      DeYor Labs was a pioneer in its own right, and was among the first labs in the country to use computer technology to provide patients with rapid analysis of blood testing analysis.
      During this time, Denise began to assume the duties of her father in overseeing the DeBartolo Corporation’s and family’s philanthropy, while her husband immersed himself in getting to know the people and businesses in the Mahoning Valley, becoming friends with many notable personalities, including Michael Morley, Clarence Smith, Ed DiGregorio and F.W. ‘Bill’ Knecht.
      DeYor Labs was eventually sold to Corning Industries and John York assumed oversight of the three racetracks owned by Edward J. DeBartolo Sr.---Thistledown, Remington Park and Louisiana Downs.
      In 1999, the Yorks assumed control of the Niners, after the team had won five Super Bowl crowns, and seemingly had the talent to win more, until starting quarterback, Steve Young, retired after being knocked out of a game gainst the Arizona Cardinals.
      Their tenure at the helm has been a rocky journey so far for two people who do not necessarily enjoy the publicity associated with their every move.
      Since assuming control of the Niners, the franchise under the Yorks has gained playoff berths five times, and appeared in one Super Bowl. That record has drawn the ire some of the Niners faithful, and despite all the scrutiny and criticisms, the Yorks have continued a remarkable record of philanthropy.
      Locally they have supported many causes, including a $500,000 gift to Youngstown State University in support of the women’s basketball program, and made a $1.5 million donation to help fund the Wellness and Recreation Center at YSU.
      The York’s contributions in downtown Youngstown saved the old Paramount Theater from demolition and it is now home to the DeYor Performing Arts Center and the Youngstown Symphony Society.
      They assumed leadership of the Italian Scholarship League and now under the banner of the Edward J. DeBartolo Sr. Memorial Scholarship Program, over the past two decades have awarded more than $1 million in college scholarships.
      Hospice of the Valley has been the benefactor of the York’s major contributions for more than a decade through the annual Mardi Gras event.
      Many Junior League projects in the Mahoning Valley have been supported by major contributions from the Yorks.
      Boardman Community Baseball’s Field of Dreams, boasting 20 fields and among the largest youth baseball facilities east of the Mississippi River, was created with contributions from John York and his teammate in the construction of the facility, Clarence Smith.
      It was under Dr. York’s tenure as BCB president in 1999 that a youngster injured his face when it was caught on an outfield fence. York immediately stepped-in to provide safety barriers for fences throughout the complex.
      In San Francisco, the York’s philanthropy cuts a wide swath.
      The San Francisco 49ers Foundation is the non-profit community funding extension of the San Francisco 49ers. The 49ers Foundation supports development programs for underserved youth that keep them, “Safe, On Track, and In School.” Since 1992, the foundation has donated over $23.3 million to support non-profits.
      The 49ers ongoing efforts to promote education took significant steps forward in 2014, with the establishment of The Denise DeBartolo York Education Center, located inside The 49ers Museum at Levi’s Stadium. The education center provides learning platforms that connect, inspire, and engage students in grades K-8. The curriculum features content-rich lessons in STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics), ingrains invaluable life skills and encourages physical activity. Annually, the center serves more than 20,000 children free of charge.
      In recognition of their community involvement, the couple has been honored with a number of accolades including the Children Discovery Museum’s Legacy for Children Award, City Year’s Service Leadership Award, Silicon Valley Exemplary Community Leadership Award by Silicon Valley FACES, Outstanding Corporate Philanthropy Award at the Catholic Charities/Catholic Youth Organization’s Loaves & Fishes Dinner, and inclusion on the Top Corporate Philanthropists list for the San Jose/Silicon Valley Business Journal.
      The couple’s passion for community involvement extends beyond the Bay Area as well.
      John has been honored with Loyola University’s Strich Medal, the highest honor awarded by the school, for his ongoing contributions to his alma mater.
      Denise and John were honored with the Youngstown Hearing & Speech Center’s Great Communicators Award in recognition of their philanthropic leadership. The couple continues to support the Boys and Girls Club of Youngstown and the Mahoning Valley United Way.
      John York is chairman of the NFL’s Health and Safety Advisory Committee, where he plays a key role in the development of safety protocols to prevent on-field concussions. While chairman of that committee, the rate of concussions in the league has shown a dramatic decline over the past three seasons.
      Dr. York and his wife have not forgotten their roots.
      Denise contributed $5 million last year for renovations at her high school alma mater, Cardinal Mooney High School.
      John has made a number of contributions in the medical field, including a $1.5 million contribution to establish an Endowed Chair in Pathology and an Endowed Chief Residency in Pathology at the University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences. In 1999, he donated a science and math building to Little Rock (Arkansas) Catholic High School for Boys, his alma mater.
      Among the many contributions of the Yorks is a donation to fund the Serenity Garden at the Joanie Abdu Comprehensive Breast Care Center, support of the Ray ‘Boom Boom’ Mancini Foundation, and the recent Boardman Stadium project, to name a few.
      There is an extra-special note of philanthropy with the Yorks.
      Edward J. DeBartolo Sr. died in 1994, just after he had announced one of the largest gifts ever to an American university, more than $30 million to Notre Dame. The gift resulted in the construction of two major facilities at the college, DeBartolo Hall, that now houses about two-thirds of all the classroom space at the school; and the Marie P. DeBartolo Performing Arts Center.
      Denise and John York made sure Mr. DeBartolo’s pledge to Notre Dame was fulfilled.
      In addition to the Distinguished Citizens Awards, the Civic Association will also present several, other awards.
      Doug Sweeney, head of Sweeney Chevrolet Buick GMC on Market St. in Boardman will be recognized as Businessman of the Year. Accolades for the Best New Building will be given to Deering Compressor on Simon Rd., and best remodeled building will be the Huntington Plaza, at Rt. 224 and Tippecanoe Rd.
      In addition special recognition will be given to the Boardman Local Schools stadium project, and the remodeling of the Boardman Library.
  Marilyn Kenner Named Road Superintendent  
  Will Succeed Larry Wilson:   February 25, 2016 Edition  
     Meeting on Monday night, Boardman Township Trustees accepted the resignation of longtime road superintendent Larry Wilson, and then moved to name Assistant Zoning Inspector Marilyn Kenner as Wilson’s successor.
      Wilson, 65, retires after a 33-year career at the Boardman Road Department, including the last 15 years as superintendent.
      During Wilson’s tenure, he maintained services despite cutbacks in personnel during the tenure of Trustees Kathy Miller and Robyn Gallitto.
      “I think we were all aware of what was going on at that time and am thankful we moved forward by leaps and bounds since that time,” Wilson said on Monday night, adding “It will be hard leaving here...It’s been part of my life for 33 years.”
      Kenner, 56, came to the Boardman Township Zoning Office after a 32-year career with the Mahoning County Engineers where she served as chief deputy. She retired from the engineer’s office in 2012. Her duties with the county engineer included management of the agency’s day-to-day operations, oversight of its some 70 employees and $12 million annual budget.
      She joined Boardman Township’s Zoning Office in May, 2013.
      Larry Moliterno, chairman of Boardman Township Trustees, called Wilson a stabalizing force in the road department.
      Wilson’s retirement becomes effective June 30 and until that time, he will mentor Kenner as she prepares to assume the leadership role at the road department.
      Moliterno cited Kenner’s long record of service in naming her to the road superintendent’s post.
      Kenner earned a bachelor of engineering/civil engineering degree from Youngstown State University in 1982,
      Trustees also hired four men to the ranks of the Boardman Fire Department, all of whom are replacing fire-fighters who have retired.
      Hired were Cory Hinderliter, Steven Stilson, Tyler Simpkins and Jonathan Park.
  Rare Disease Day Feb. 29, Theme And Slogan: Patient Voice Raising Awareness for ON /AVN aka Avascular Necrosis  
  February 25, 2016 Edition  
     2016 marks the ninth year that the international rare disease community celebrates Rare Disease Day. On Feb. 29, people living with or affected by a rare disease, patient organizations, politicians, carers, medical professionals, researchers and industry will come together in solidarity to raise awareness of rare diseases.
      The Rare Disease Day 2016 theme ‘Patient Voice’ recognizes the crucial role that patients play in voicing their needs and in instigating change that improves their lives and the lives of their families and carers.
      The Rare Disease Day 2016 slogan ‘Join us in making the voice of rare diseases heard’ appeals to a wider audience, those that are not living with or directly affected by a rare disease, to join the rare disease community in making known the impact of rare diseases. People living with a rare disease and their families are often isolated. The wider community can help to bring them out of this isolation.
      Following is a ‘Patient’s Voice’ from Poland, Oh., about her journey with AVN (Avascular Necrosis):
      Hello, my name is Debbie. I have AVN in my knee I found out in Dec. of 2014. I am not sure exactly how I got AVN or really how long I had it the Doctors do not either.
      They feel I may have developed AVN when I was exercising and tore my meniscus and hurt my patellar. I went to my Dr. after doing some exercise and experienced a lightening bolt hit my knee,that did not go away, he did some tests, and wanted to send me for MRI to confirm the meniscus tear which it did, but to my surprise I also that day was diagnosed with Avascular necrosis.
      I was told my knee looked like butter. Dr. felt TKR (Total knee Replacement) not an option at this time, as he said TKR may last 10 yrs., so we should wait,the only problem with waiting is it can lead to the bone collapsing, so I was told told limit my weight bearing. No one wanted to even repair my torn meniscus as they said it can lead to even more complications.
      Words cannot really describe the pain I have most days,it can be unbearable,draining,simple things are now so very hard like walking up stairs or down stairs,There are days I force myself to move and cry later in the day from pain and frustration. Most days it feels like there is a tourniquet above and below my knee , the pressure is intense and pain is always there ,plus its very cold to the touch while inside it feels like its on fire.
      I had a few opinions and basically was told the same thing. The feeling of frustration set in,the more help I tried to find the more I found out many don’t know about this rare disease nor the cause,or really how to treat it.
      In todays age of Rejuvenation Medicine and saving your joints why can I like so many others worldwide can not find anyone to help .
      You see today we have Stem cell therapy, Prolotherapy, PRP(Platelet-Rich Plasma) to help the joints from further damage, however finding someone to do it in NE Ohio is a chore all its own, and in my research not many treat it in the USA, they are few and very far between. Plus its rarely if ever covered by any insurance and can range from 1800.00 to 10.000 depending on what you have done. So my quest began, if I was feeling this frustrated what were others feeling, as when you have ON/AVN you have constant pain, It is second only in pain to bone cancer, the death of the bones/joints are the same.
      Treatments for it are mostly surgically interventive, with no way to predict or guarantee outcomes or results.
      ON/AVN does not respect age, gender, or ethnic background; it can strike anyone at any time. Of the 20,000 joint replacements in the USA every year, at least 20 percent of them are due to ON/AVN.
      ON/AVN is still considered a rare condition with not all orthopedic doctors being equally experienced in diagnosing and/or treating it.
      So Valuable time is lost in trying to treat the patient,sometimes leading to a collapsed or otherwise destroyed joint.
      Very little research is on-going for ON/AVN, as expected with any ‘orphan disease’, or a disease that has a growing number of patients but has not yet reached the numbers of more wide-spread conditions, such as heart disease or cancer.
      There is no known cure for ON/AVN. We desperately need to turn this around.
      ON/AVN is caused by a blockage or loss of blood flow to a joint or bone, causing the joint/bone to die. Usually, but not always, the hips are first affected, then, other joints may follow. However It can strike any bone or joint in the body. The bone tissue/joints actually die, just like heart muscle tissue dies from a heart attack.
      Since 2014 I have been on my own mission, to raise awareness, I started a support group on FB called Avascular Necrosis Lets spread The word to get more and better research: and I have been doing what I can to help others learn about AVN.
      In our FB group we talk about our pain, the frustration of not finding Doctors that are experienced in treating ON/AVN. New Treatments like stem cell, prolotherapy and prp. Stem cell being the gold standard. But again finding someone to administer this type of treatment is very hard.
      I started a quest: I started calling Doctor after Doctor (orthos) state wide to see who was experienced in ON/AVN; I have compiled a list for people looking for Doctors with experience in treating this rare disease.
      Now I am working on a list worldwide. Osteonecrosis aka Avascular Necrosis its also known as aseptic necrosis, and ischemic necrosis, and in young children its known as Legg–Calvé–Perthes disease (LCPD).
      There are many ways to get ON/AVN here is a list :
      What Causes Osteonecrosis?: Osteonecrosis is caused by impaired blood supply to the bone, but it is not always clear what causes that impairment. Osteonecrosis often occurs in people with certain medical conditions or risk factors (such as high-dose corticosteroid use or excessive alcohol intake). However, it also affects people with no health problems and for no known reason. Following are some potential causes of osteonecrosis and other health conditions associated with its development.
      Steroid Medications: Aside from injury, one of the most common causes of osteonecrosis is the use of corticosteroid medications such as prednisone. Corticosteroids are commonly used to treat inflammatory diseases such as systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE), rheumatoid arthritis, inflammatory bowel disease, severe asthma, and vasculitis. Studies suggest that long-term use of oral or intravenous corticosteroids is associated with nontraumatic osteonecrosis. Patients should discuss concerns about steroid use with their doctor.
      Doctors are not sure exactly why the use of corticosteroids sometimes leads to osteonecrosis. They speculate that the drugs may interfere with the body’s ability to break down fatty substances called lipids. These substances then build up in and clog the blood vessels, causing them to narrow and to reduce the amount of blood that gets to the bone. Some studies suggest that corticosteroid-related osteonecrosis is more severe and more likely to affect both hips (when occurring in the hip) than osteonecrosis resulting from other causes.
      Alcohol Use: Excessive alcohol use is another common cause of osteonecrosis. People who drink alcohol in excess can develop fatty substances that may block blood vessels, causing a decreased blood supply to the bones.
      Injury
      When a fracture, a dislocation, or some other trauma to joint injury occurs, the blood vessels may be damaged. This can interfere with the blood circulation to the bone and lead to trauma-related osteonecrosis. In fact, studies suggest that hip dislocation and hip fractures are major risk factors for osteonecrosis.
      Increased pressure within the bone may be another cause of osteonecrosis. When there is too much pressure within the bone, the blood vessels narrow, making it hard for them to deliver enough blood to the bone cells. The cause of increased pressure is not fully understood.
      Other risk factors for osteonecrosis include bloodclots,any damage to arteries,radiation therapy, chemotherapy,radiation, and organ transplantation (particularly kidney transplantation). Osteonecrosis is also associated with a number of medical conditions, including cancer,Pancreatitis, SLE, blood disorders such as sickle cell disease,blood clotting disorders HIV infection, Gaucher’s disease, and Caisson disease,Individuals with the C677T gene mutation suffer from methylenetetrahydrofolate deficiency. This mutation is associated with heart disease, stroke, high blood pressure, high blood pressure during pregnancy (preeclampsia) and hyperhomocysteinemia.
      Osteonecrosis (Avascular Necrosis) is classified in stages referring to how far the disease has progressed. There are the Ficat and the Steinberg Classification systems. Most orthopedic doctors use the Ficat classification system to determine at what stage your disease is. The stages are as follows:
       Stage 0: Patient is asymptomatic; Radiography findings are normal; Histology findings demonstrate osteonecrosis.
       Stage I: Patient may or may not be symptomatic; Radiography and CT scan findings are unremarkable; AVN is considered likely based on MRI and bone scan results (may be subclassified by extent of involvement [see below]); Histology findings are abnormal.
       Stage II: Patient is symptomatic; Plain radiography findings are abnormal and include osteopenia, osteosclerosis, or cysts; Subchondral radiolucency is absent; MRI findings are diagnostic.
       Stage III: Patient is symptomatic; Radiographic findings include subchondral lucency (crescent sign) and subchondral collapse; Shape of the femoral head is generally preserved on radiographs and CT scans; Subclassification depends on the extent of crescent, as follows: Stage IIIa: Crescent is less than 15% of the articular surface; Stage IIIb: Crescent is 15-30% of the articular surface; Stage IIIc: Crescent is more than 30% of the articular surface;
       Stage IV: Flattening or collapse of femoral head is present; Joint space may be irregular; CT scanning is more sensitive than radiography; Subclassification depends on the extent of collapsed surface, as follows: Stage IVa: Less than 15% of surface is collapsed; Stage IVb: Approximately 15-30% of surface is collapsed; Stage IVc: More than 30% of surface is collapsed.
       Stage V: Radiography findings include narrowing of the joint space, osteoarthritis with sclerosis of acetabulum, and marginal osteophytes.
       Stage VI: Findings include extensive destruction of the femoral head and joint.
      Treatment of ON/AVN: Medications and therapy: In the early stages of avascular necrosis, symptoms can be reduced with medication and therapy. Your doctor might recommend:
       Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs, Osteoporosis drugs, Cholesterol lowering drugs, blood thinners, rest, reducing the weight and stress on your affected bone, or electrical stimulation.
      Because most people don’t start having symptoms until avascular necrosis is fairly advanced, your doctor may recommend surgery. The options include:
       Core decompression; bone transplant (graft); bone reshaping (osteotomy); joint replacement; and regenerative medicine treatment Stem cell injections, Prolotherapy, PRP. Bone marrow aspirate and concentration is a novel procedure that in the future might be appropriate for early stage avascular necrosis of the hip. Stem cells are harvested from your bone marrow.
      In children Legg–Calvé–Perthes disease (LCPD) is a childhood hip disorder initiated by a disruption of blood flow to the ball of the femur called the femoral head. Due to the lack of blood flow, the bone dies (osteonecrosis or avascular necrosis) and stops growing.
      The disease is most commonly found in children between the ages of 4 to 8 but it can occur in children between the ages of 2 to 15.
      Since this is a Rare Disease: My goal is to spread awareness so maybe we can someday have better research, better treatment options, affordable options,and hopefully a cure.
      In closing Rare Disease Day is Feb 29th , celebrated on the 28 during non leap year. Please help me Raise awareness for Avascular Necrosis Lets Spread the word to get more and better research.
      If you have AVN or a family member you’re welcome to join our group in FB, https://www.facebook.com/groups/DeadBoneDiseaseAVN/. Also, visit www.rarediseaseday.org for more information.
     
  PUBLIC NOTICE  
  February 18, 2016 Edition  
     PUBLIC NOTICE
      To: General Public
      From: Mark A. Pitzer, Fire Chief
      Reference: 2015 Intemational Fire Code
      At a regularly scheduled Boardman Township Trustees meeting held on February 8th, 2016, at 5:30 PM, the Board of Trustees passed the attached resolution regarding the adoption ofthe latest fire code.
      The Board of Trustees approved, based on the recommendation of Fire Chief Mark A. Pitzer, thE adoption of the 2015 International Fire Code.
      This resolution and adoption of code replaces the existing 2003 International Fire Code that has been enforced in Boardman Township.
      This PUBLIC NOTICE serves as a 30 day notice of the enforcement of this code. The 2015 International Fire Code will begin to be enforced on March 10, 2016.
      Copies of the 2015 International Fire Code is on file at the Boardman Township Administrative Building located at 8299 Market Street and at the main fire station located at 136 Boardman-Poland
      Rd.
      Mark A. Pitzer
      Fire Chief
      www.boardmantownship.com
      8299 Market Street· Boardman, Ohio
      Trustees: Brad Calhoun, Thomas P. Costello,
      Larry Moliterno
      At a duly held meeting of the Board of Trustees of Boardman Township, Mahoning County,
      Ohio held on February 8, 2016 at 5: 30 p.m. at the Boardman Township Government Center, 8299 Marke Street, the following Resolution to Adopt the 2015 International Fire Code, including all appendices, for Boardman Township, Mahoning County, Ohio was adopted.
      Motion was made by Brad Calhoun to adopt the following Resolution:
      WHEREAS, in order to properly protect the health, safety and welfare of the inhabitants of Boardman Township, this Board finds it necessary and advisable to adopt a standard code pertaining to fire, fire hazards and fire prevention; and
      WHEREAS, it is the intent of this Board to adopt, pursuant to R.C. 505.373, the 2015
      International Fire Code in its entirety, including all appendices;
      THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED by the Board of Trustees of Boardman Township, Mahoning County, Ohio, that:
      SECTION 1. That pursuant to R.C. 505.373, the Board hereby adopts the 2015 International Fire
      Code in its entirety, including all appendices, as the standard code peltaining to fire, fue hazards and fire prevention in Boardman Township, Mahoning County, Ohio. A complete copy of the code,
      including all appendices, is attached to and incorporated by reference in this resolution.
      SECTION 2. That all other Resolutions in conflict herewith are hereby repealed.
      SECTION 3. That Boardman Township, Mahoning County, Ohio is not making any amendments or deletions to the 2015 International Fire Code.
      SECTION 4. That nothing in this Resolution or in the 2015 International Fire Code, including all appendices, hereby adopted shall be construed to affect any suit or preceding pending in any court, or any rights acquired or liability incurred, or any cause of action acquired or existing, prior to the
      enactment of this Resolution. However, all such prior actions are expressly subject to codes in effect at the time the cause of action arose.
      SECTION 5. That the Fiscal Officer is directed to:
      a. Maintain a complete copy of the 2015 International Fire Code in its entirety, including all appendices, on file in the Office of the Boardman Township Fiscal Officer, for inspection by the public;
      b. Keep copies of the 2015 International Fire Code in its entirety, including all appendices, available for distribution to the public at cost;
      c. Certify a copy of this resolution, together with a complete copy of the 2015 International Fire Code in its entirety, including all appendices, to the Mahoning County Law Library, 120 Market Street, Youngstown Ohio, 44503, to be kept on file there; and
      d. Post notice of adoption of the 2015 International Fire Code in its entirety, including all appendices, in five conspicuous places in the Township for at least 30 days, and also cause such notice to be published in a newspaper of general circulation in the Township once a week for three consecutive weeks. The notice shall clearly identify the code and state its purpose, and state that complete copies of the 2015 International Fire Code in its entirety, including all appendices, are on file with the Boardman Township Fiscal Officer and the
      Mahoning County Law Library for inspection by the public, and that the Fiscal Officer has copies available for distribution to the public at cost.
      SECTION 6. The 2015 International Fire Code in its entirety, including all appendices, shall become effective and apply throughout the Township on the 31st day following the day the above notice is first posted in the Township.
      Motion to adopt the Resolution was seconded by Mr. Thomas P. Costello.
      Mr. Costello- aye
      Mr. Calhoun-aye
      Mr. Moliterno-aye
      RESOLUTION ADOPTED This 8th day of February, 2016 by Boardman Township Trustees, mahoning County, Ohio.
      ATTEST:
      William D. Leicht, Fiscal Officer
      CERTIFICATION
      I, William D. Leicht, Fiscal Officer of Boardman Township, do hereby certify that the foregoing Resolution is taken from the Minutes of Boardman Township at a meeting duly held February 8, 2016 and that the same has been compared by me with the original Resolution of said minutes, and that said resolution is a true and correct copy thereof.
  LEGAL NOTICE  
  February 18, 2016 Edition  
     LEGAL NOTICE
      ANNUAL FINANCIAL REPORTS
      The annual financial reports for fiscal year ending December 31, 2015, of the Board of Park Commissioners of Boardman Township Park District has been completed and approved by the Board. The Reports are available at the office of the Board of Park Commissioners, located in the Georgeanna Parker Activity Center, 375 Boardman-Poland Road, Boardman, Ohio, during regular business hours: Monday through Friday, 8 AM - 5 PM.
      BOARD OF PARK COMMISSIONERS
      OF BOARDMAN TOWNSHIP PARK DISTRICT
      Daniel N. Slagle, Jr.,
      Clerk of the Board of Park Commissioners
  Authorities Still Hold $97,000 Worth Of Jewelry  
  That Burglar Dropped When He Was Shot By Store Owner On Aug. 18, 2015:   February 18, 2016 Edition  
     About an hour before midnight, on Aug. 18, 2015. 61-year-old Mark Cichanski heard the burglar alarm sound at his family business, Cirelli Jewelers, 5903 Market St., where he and his wife, Mariellen, also make their home, in the upstairs of the building. Checking his video surveillance system, Cichanski saw someone inside the business, rifling through display cases and stealing jewelry.
      Armed with a handgun, Cichanski locked the door that separates the business from the living area, and exited the front door of the residence, where he was immediately confronted by the burglar, who was exiting from the door to the business.
      Cichanski told police when the burglar moved quickly towards him, he drew the Beretta pistol he carried and fired seven to eight shots at the man.
      A trail of blood insured the burglar was shot, and led to a nearby parking lot, where police said they found a “large, concentrated pool of blood,” some of which was reportedly collected and given to the Bureau of Criminal Identification for DNA testing.
      Cichanski said he thought he hit the burglar in the right shoulder, and when he did, the man dropped a backpack that contained some 89 pieces of jewelry valued at $97,000, all from Cirelli’s.
      According to police, a video surveillance system confirmed Cichanski’s story.
      Within a week, a man checked into a hospital in Beaver County, Pa., claiming he had been shot in a parking lot in Boardman Township. That story, Pennsylvania authorities believe, was false and on Aug. 25, 2015, 54-year-old Norman F. Harvey, of 60 Gregory St., Aliquippa, Pa., was arrested by the Beaver Falls, Pa. Police Department on misdemeanor charges of making false reports and furnishing authorities with information without knowledge.
      Harvey, who has a lengthy criminal record, has been incarcerated in Pennsylvania since his arrest by Beaver Falls PD, and his cases on the phoney information charges are set to be heard on Mar. 7.
      As charges lodged in Boardman Court show, Harvey is the suspect local police want for the Cirelli break-in.
      It was just last week that the Boardman Police Department released Cichanski’s Beretta back to him.
      However, five months after the burglary, authorities still are holding onto the jewelry that was found in the backpack.
      “Cichanski provided...an itemized list and description of the recovered stolen merchandise,” Officer Daniel Baker said.
      “I can tell you, if we had that merchandise, we could have easily sold at last half of it by now,” Cichanski said on Monday, noting he was originally told he could get the stolen jewelry back “in a day or so.”
      Harvey has yet to even be brought to a hearing in Mahoning County on the burglary charge stemming from the Aug. 18, 2015 shooting.
      Det. Glenn Riddle suggested when the court cases in western Pennsylvania are adjudicated, Harvey could be brought to Mahoning County, where in addition to Cirelli burglary, he faces a theft charge lodged on Aug. 1, 2015 at Lowes.
      In the meantime, the $97,000 worth of jewelry has to be held as evidence, until Harvey is brought to Mahoning County where he will likely receive a court-appointed attorney to represent him, Riddle said.
      “We’ve been told if he has an attorney, then his counsel and the prosecutor’s office could reach an agreement the evidence was stolen from Cirelli’s, and Mr. Cichanski could then get his jewelry back,” Det. Riddle said, adding that DNA tests conducted by the BCI match Harvey’s blood found in the parking lot the night of the burglary.
      Cichanski said on Monday a review of his outside surveillance camera footage more than two weeks prior to the Aug. 18 burglary showed Harvey outside of his business
      Harvey was originally lodged in the Beaver Count Jail.
      According to Pennsylvania Department of Corrections record, Harvey is now one of some 2077 inmates housed at the State Correctional Institution, Brenner Township, near Bellafonte, Pa. The jail was built in 2013 with a capacity of 1900 inmates, and is already overcrowded, at 109 per cent of capacity.
      The Pennsylvania Department of Corrections lists several aliases for Norman F. Harvey, including Francis Harvey, Walter Jackson, Francis Latimore, James Savoy and Richard Wimberly.
  UPCOMING EVENTS  
  February 18, 2016 Edition  
     Feb. 20 – Winter Wine Affair – Stambaugh Auditorium – VIP 1-4 & 6-9; GA 2-4 & 7-9.
      Feb. 25 – BHS Winter Band Concert – BHS Performing Arts Center – 7pm
      Feb.27 - YMCA Spin-A-Thon - 7:15am
      Mar. 2 – Canfield Republican Women’s Club – A La Cart, Canfield - Noon
      Mar. 5 – Boardman Lions Club – Night at the Races – Operating Engineer’s Hall, McClurg Rd - 6pm
      Mar. 7 - Cultural Alliance – Georgetown – 6pm
      Mar. 9 – Yo So Christian Women’s Connection – Avion on the Water – 11:30am
      Mar. 11 – Boardman Schools Fund For Educational Excellence – Reverse Raffle – Holiday Inn, Boardman - 6pm
      Mar. 11- Yo Area Grocers Assoc - Beer & Wine Taste – Stambaugh Auditorium - 6pm
     
  LEGAL NOTICE  
  February 18, 2016 Edition  
     LEGAL NOTICE
      STATEMENT OF QUALIFICATIONS FOR
      PROFESSIONAL DESIGN SERVICES
      The Board of Boardman Township Trustees intends to contract for professional design services for various capital projects throughout the township including a fire station. Firms interested in being considered to provide design services should reply with a statement in qualifications no later than 4PM on Feb 19th, 2016. Statements received after this deadline will not be considered.
      Statements of qualifications should include information regarding the firm’s history, education and experience of owners and key technical personnel, the technical expertise of the firm’s current staff, the firm’s experience in performing similar work specifically fire station design, availability of staff, the firm’s equipment and facilities, references; and any previous work performed for the Board of Boardman Township Trustees or other Mahoning County Governmental Agencies. Firms may submit one (1) copy of the Statement of Qualifications.
      Statements of qualifications should be transmitted to:
      THE BOARD OF BOARDMAN TOWNSHIP TRUSTEES
      8299 MARKET STREET
      BOARDMAN, OHIO 44512
      ATTN: JASON LOREE
      TOWNSHIP ADMINISTRATOR
      As required by Ohio Revised Code Section(s) 153.65-71, responding firms will be evaluated and ranked in order of qualifications. Following this evaluation, the Board of Boardman Township Trustees will enter into contract negotiations with the most highly qualified firm.
     
  Eddie DeBartolo Jr. Awarded His Place In Football Immortality  
  Will Be Enshrined In Hall Of Fame:   February 11, 2016 Edition  
Edward J. DeBartolo Jr.
     Eddie DeBartolo Jr., 69, who grew up in Boardman on Danbury Dr., and later on Southwoods Dr., ‘made it,’ on his fourth and final consideration, for the Pro Football Hall of Fame, it was announced last Saturday night during nationally-televised ceremonies in San Francisco, Calif., on the eve of Super Bowl 50.
      Eddie, at the age of 31, and his father, American shopping mall pioneer Edward J. DeBartolo, bought 90 per cent of the San Francisco 49ers in 1977 for a little less than $17 million.
      ‘’When the 49ers were available, I contacted the Morabito ladies and made the deal. We paid less than $17 million for 90 percent. And then I turned the club over to Eddie and he’s done it. He has the whole financial obligation,” Mr. DeBartolo said of the deal.
      During the first years under Eddie, the Niners franchise didn’t win, spurring much criticism, including Italian slurs (actually printed by Bay Area sports writers). In just three years under Eddie, (with Head Coach Bill Walsh) the Niners won their first division title since the team had been founded in 1946. Going 13-3, the Niners silenced Eddie’s critics, despite the fact he raised general admission prices at old Candlestick Stadium to $12 each!
      In 1982, the DeBartolo-owned Niners won the first of their record five Super Bowl titles with a 26-21 win over the Cincinnati Bengals at the Pontiac Silverdome.
      In 1983, Eddie added his long-time friend and legal counsel from Youngstown, Carmen Policy as the Niners general counsel, and the pair had an uncanny ability ‘and luck’ to get the best of players and coaches, often times with ‘acute’ perceptions of NFL rules.
      Policy has credited Eddie many times with having the guts to hire Walsh in the face of stiff opposition among most members of the Niners family.
      At that time, NFL coaching salaries were not what they are today, and the Niners made an offer of $80,000 to Coach Walsh, who countered with a request near some $225,000. So the story goes, upon hearing Walsh’s demand, Eddie declared, “Great, get him here.” Before hiring the coach, Walsh made several trips to DeBartolo Corp. headquarters on Market St. in Boardman, where Eddie used to have his home office.
      And so began a run of victories and titles that made the Niners the ‘Team of the 80s,’ and included Super Bowl crowns in 1990 and 1995.
      Eddie and his family shared their successes on the gridiron in the Mahoning Valley, hosting gala celebrations here in Boardman with each title. Perhaps the most memorable was held May 5, 1989 at Mr. Anthony’s famous banquet hall.
      With the successes on the field, Eddie hit some bumps in the road, including the biggest bump, a 1997 attempt to get a casino license in Louisiana, that included a $400,000 bribe sought by Gov. Edwin Edwards. The incident drew the ire of the federal government, and a $1 million fine and led to a decision to turn control of the Niners to his sister, Denise.
      For a time, Eddie moved his local offices across the street from DeBartolo Corp. headquarters to the Southwoods Executive Complex..
      “I just figured there was more to do with my life at that time,” Eddie told a sports writer. “I had succeeded and done a lot with the 49ers. It meant the world to me, but I just figured... that it would be best for me to be a grandfather, a good husband and a dad and do what I wanted to do, maybe travel a little bit and spend more time with my family.”
      Eddie DeBartolo Jr. was a pioneer as a member of one of America’s most exclusive clubs---pro football owners.
      He wasn’t afraid to spend money to better his team. But he didn’t just spend money buying good players.
      Under his tenure, the Niners built the newest and most modern training facility in the NFL in 1988 (named in honor of his mom, and called the Marie P. DeBartolo Sports Complex). He added sports psychologists to the staff to help his players deal with the unique issues they face. He provided players with their own rooms during away games. He treated his players as family.
      He became so popular in the Bay Area a restaurant on the famed wharf had a special room named in his honor.
      Along the way, Eddie, like his father and sister, became legendary for the many kindnesses he provided to those in need.
      After his tenure with the Niners, Eddie relocated to Tampa, Fla., re-starting his businesses enterprises there. He also bought a ranch in Kalispel, Montana, where he now spends about half of his time. Every year the ranch plays host to a now legendary Fourth of July event.
      And DeBartolo, who ran his football team like it was a family, still maintains strong ties with his former players, including hosting lavish reunion events.
      Despite the bumps, Eddie was an incredible owner, one who has never forgotten those who helped him along the way.
      “There’s nothing I can do about the past. I guess whatever happens and whatever good I did in the past, whatever bad I did in the past, it all goes together. It’s like baking a loaf of bread and when it comes out of the oven, people say he deserves it or he doesn’t deserve it,” Eddie told an Associated Press columnist prior to his selection to Pro Football’s Hall of Fame.
      Under Eddie, the 49ers won 13 division titles, made 16 playoff appearances, advanced to the NFC championship game 10 times, and became the first franchise ever to win five Super Bowls.
      Nuf said!
      PICTURE: EDWARD J. DeBARTOLO JR. EARNED SELECTION to the National Football League’s Hall of Fame last Saturday. DeBartolo-led San Francisco 49ers teams became the first team to win five Super Bowls. He will be enshrined in August during ceremonies in Canton, Oh. From the early 1980s through the 1990s, DeBartolo presided over a team that had the winningest decade in football history.
  The First Super Bowl Trophy Won By The San Francisco 49ers  
  February 11, 2016 Edition  
     THE FIRST SUPER BOWL TROPHY won by the San Francisco 49ers was on display during the winter of 1982 at special banquet held at the Fonderlac Country Club. Pictured on left is Edward J. DeBartolo Sr. and on right, Eddie DeBartolo Jr.
  Eddie DeBartolo Jr. Accepts 1990 Super Bowl Trophy  
  February 11, 2016 Edition  
     EDDIE DeBARTOLO JR. ACCEPTS THE TROPHY from NFL Commissioner Paul Tagliabue following the Niners 55-10 demolition of the Cincinnati Bengals in Super Bowl XXIV held Jan. 28, 1990 at the Louisiana Superdome.
  Evening with The Easter Bunny  
  at Boardman Park Mar 8-9 2016:   February 11, 2016 Edition  
     Put a little spring in your step and hop on over to Boardman Park on Tues., Mar. 8 or Wed., Mar. 9, from 5:30 p.m. to 7:30 p.m. and enjoy an evening with the Easter Bunny. Tickets are available by calling the park office
      at 330-726-8105 to pay by credit card, or online at www.boardmanpark.com. Tickets are $7/each for Boardman residents and $9/each for non-residents. Children ages 2 and under are free. The evening includes dinner, arts and crafts, and a family photo with the Easter Bunny. For more information about Boardman Park events visit our website at www.boardmanpark.com
  LEGAL NOTICE  
  February 11, 2016 Edition  
     STATEMENT OF QUALIFICATIONS FOR
      PROFESSIONAL DESIGN SERVICES
      The Board of Boardman Township Trustees intends to contract for professional design services for various capital projects throughout the township including a fire station. Firms interested in being considered to provide design services should reply with a statement in qualifications no later than 4PM on Feb 19th, 2016. Statements received after this deadline will not be considered.
      Statements of qualifications should include information regarding the firm’s history, education and experience of owners and key technical personnel, the technical expertise of the firm’s current staff, the firm’s experience in performing similar work specifically fire station design, availability of staff, the firm’s equipment and facilities, references; and any previous work performed for the Board of Boardman Township Trustees or other Mahoning County Governmental Agencies. Firms may submit one (1) copy of the Statement of Qualifications.
      Statements of qualifications should be transmitted to:
      THE BOARD OF BOARDMAN TOWNSHIP TRUSTEES
      8299 MARKET STREET
      BOARDMAN, OHIO 44512
      ATTN: JASON LOREE
      TOWNSHIP ADMINISTRATOR
      As required by Ohio Revised Code Section(s) 153.65-71, responding firms will be evaluated and ranked in order of qualifications. Following this evaluation, the Board of Boardman Township Trustees will enter into contract negotiations with the most highly qualified firm.
     
  PUBLIC HEARING  
  February 11, 2016 Edition  
     NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING
      The Boardman Township Board of Appeals shall hold a Public Hearing on Tuesday, March 1, 2016 at 7:00 P.M., at the Boardman Township Government Center, 8299 Market Street, Boardman Township, Ohio, 44512, for consideration of the following cases:
      APPEAL CASE AC-2016-03
      John Straub, Straub Property Management LLC, 1240 Boardman-Poland Road, Poland, Ohio 44514, property owner, requests a variance from the terms of the Boardman Township Zoning Resolution, effective May 29, 2012, Article X, in order to construct a new facility proposed to be located at 6201 South Avenue. Specifically, property owner requests a variance from Article X, Commercial Districts, Section C, Yard Area, seeking a 5’ reduction in the required 10’ side yard setback for a total setback of 5’. Also, seeking a variance from Article X, Commercial Districts, Section D, Parking Area, seeking a reduction of 22 parking spaces from the required 42 for a total parking stall count of 20, with provisions for 18 banked spaces. The property is further known as Parcel Number 29-019-0-018.00-0, Lot 4 of the Lucille S Lyon Plat 1. Said property is zoned Commercial in Boardman Township, Mahoning County, State of Ohio.
      APPEAL CASE AC-2016-04
      RCJR Inc., 7811 South Avenue, Boardman, Ohio 44512, property owner, requests a variance from the terms of the Boardman Township Zoning Resolution, effective May 29, 2012, Article XII, Special Provisions, in order to construct a sign proposed to be located at 7811 South Avenue. Specifically, property owner requests a variance from Article XII, Special Provisions, Section H Signs and Billboards, Letter D, Number 1, seeking a variance from the limitation of one sign on the premises in order to construct a second sign. Also, a variance is sought from Article XII Special Provisions, Section H Signs and Billboards, Letter D, Number 3, in order to construct a sign which is 25’ 9” in height, seeking a 9” variance from the height restriction of 25’. The property is further known as Parcel Number 29-052-0-004.00-0, Lot 8 of the Williams and Carrier Replat. Said property is zoned Commercial in Boardman Township, Mahoning County, State of Ohio.
      Text and maps of the requests may be viewed at the Boardman Township Zoning Office, 8299 Market Street, Boardman, Ohio, 44512, Monday through Friday, between the hours of 8:00 A.M. and 4:00 P.M. until time of the hearing.
      Atty. John Shultz, Chairman
      Boardman Township Board of Appeals
      Sarah Gartland, Zoning Inspector
  LEGAL NOTICE  
  February 11, 2016 Edition  
     LEGAL NOTICE
      The Boardman Township Zoning Commission will conduct a Public Hearing on the following amendment to the Boardman Township Zoning Resolution and Township Zoning Map on Thursday, February 25, 2016 at 5:30 P.M. in the Marie P. DeBartolo Meeting Room, Boardman Township Government Center, 8299 Market Street, Boardman, Ohio, 44512. Texts and map of the proposed changes may be viewed in the Zoning Office, same address, between the hours of 8:00 A.M. and 4:00 P.M. Monday through Friday, until the time of the Hearing.
      Following the recommendation of the Zoning Commission, the proposed amendments will be referred to the Board of Trustees for final determination.
      AMENDMENT A-2016-01
      Boardman Township, 8299 Market Street, Boardman, Ohio, 44512, has initiated an amendment to the Boardman Township Zoning Resolution for typographical and organizational changes throughout the resolution, and content changes in Articles 3, 8, 9, 10, 11, 12, 13, 14, and 17.
      AMENDMENT A-2016-03
      Pursuant to Article XVI, Section F, Part a, Number 1 of the Boardman Township Zoning Resolution, as amended through May 29, 2012, concerning the initiation of amendments to the Township Zoning Resolution, the Board of Trustees of Boardman Township find it necessary to initiate hearings to amend the Boardman Township Zoning Resolution and Township Zoning Map to reclassify and rezone the following 175 parcels of real property from Residential R-2 Districts to Residential R-1 Districts:
      44 Parcels along Ridgewood Drive
      13 Parcels along Gilbert Drive
      18 Parcels along Stillson Place
      23 Parcels along Withers Drive
      21 Parcels along Griswold Drive
      29 Parcels along Brainard Drive
      26 Parcels along Wolcott Drive
      The vacated portion of Shale Drive on Withers Drive
      All properties are located in Boardman Township, Mahoning County, State of Ohio
      Peter W. Lymber, Chairman
      Boardman Township Zoning Commission
      Sarah Gartland, Zoning Inspector
  LEGAL NOTICE  
  February 11, 2016 Edition  
     LEGAL NOTICE
      The Boardman Township Trustees shall conduct a Public Hearing on the following amendments to the Boardman Township Zoning Resolution and Township Zoning Map on Monday, February 22, 2016 at 5:15 P.M. in the Marie P. DeBartolo Meeting Room, Boardman Township Government Center, 8299 Market Street, Boardman, Ohio, 44512. Texts and map of the proposed changes may be viewed in the Zoning Office, same address, between the hours of 8:00 A.M. and 4:00 P.M. Monday through Friday, until the time of the Hearing.
      This is the final public hearing on this matter. The decision may be issued at the close of the hearing or within twenty (20) days subsequent to the hearing.
      AMENDMENT A-2015-12
      Bernard R. and Donna Marie Tunno, 5922 South Avenue, Boardman Ohio, 44512, property owner, and Maureen Lalama, 5930 South Avenue, Boardman, Ohio, 44512, property owner, requests the rezoning of two parcels of property from a Residential R-2 Zoning District to a Commercial Zoning District in their entirety. The request is for 5938 South Avenue, Lot 8 of the Garden Village Plat 1, Parcel Number 29-015-0-006.00-0, located on the northeast corner of the Larkridge Avenue – South Avenue intersection and 5930 South Avenue, Lot 9 in the Garden Village Plat 1, Parcel Number 29-015-0-007.00-0, 85’ north of the Larkridge Avenue – South Avenue Intersection. The request is for a total area of 0.986 acres, is regular in shape, and currently zoned Residential in their entirety. The requested parcels are located in Boardman Township, Mahoning County, State of Ohio.
      AMENDMENT A-2016-02
      Boardman Township, 8299 Market Street, Boardman Ohio, 44512, property owner, requests the rezoning of a portion of four (4) parcels of property from a Residential R-1 Zoning District to a Commercial Zoning District in their entirety. The request is for the following properties:
      Lot 3 North Newton Farm Plat 29-005-0-020.00-0 Rear 85’ x 65’
      Lot 4 North Newton Farm Plat
      126 Boardman Poland Rd
      29-005-0-021.00-0 Rear 85’ x 75’
      Lot 5 North Newton Farm Plat 29-005—022.00-0 Rear 60’ x 85’ irregular
      Lot 6 North Newton Farm Plat
      7248 Southern Blvd. 29-005-0-027.00-0
      Rear 97’ x 162’ irregular
      All properties are located in Boardman Township, Mahoning County, State of Ohio
      Larry Moliterno, Chairman
      Boardman Township Board of Trustees
      Sarah Gartland, Zoning Inspector
  LEGAL NOTICE  
  February 4, 2016 Edition  
     STATEMENT OF QUALIFICATIONS FOR
      PROFESSIONAL DESIGN SERVICES
      The Board of Boardman Township Trustees intends to contract for professional design services for various capital projects throughout the township including a fire station. Firms interested in being considered to provide design services should reply with a statement in qualifications no later than 4PM on Feb 19th, 2016. Statements received after this deadline will not be considered.
      Statements of qualifications should include information regarding the firm’s history, education and experience of owners and key technical personnel, the technical expertise of the firm’s current staff, the firm’s experience in performing similar work specifically fire station design, availability of staff, the firm’s equipment and facilities, references; and any previous work performed for the Board of Boardman Township Trustees or other Mahoning County Governmental Agencies. Firms may submit one (1) copy of the Statement of Qualifications.
      Statements of qualifications should be transmitted to:
      THE BOARD OF BOARDMAN TOWNSHIP TRUSTEES
      8299 MARKET STREET
      BOARDMAN, OHIO 44512
      ATTN: JASON LOREE
      TOWNSHIP ADMINISTRATOR
      As required by Ohio Revised Code Section(s) 153.65-71, responding firms will be evaluated and ranked in order of qualifications. Following this evaluation, the Board of Boardman Township Trustees will enter into contract negotiations with the most highly qualified firm.
     
  Middle School Realignment Will Maximize Educational Opportunities For Students  
  February 4, 2016 Edition  
     By unanimous vote last week, the Boardman Local School Board voted to place all fifth and sixth grade students in the local system into Center Middle School, and all seventh and eighth grade students will attend Glenwood Middle School, effective next fall.
      The local schools system has housed fifth thru eighth grade students at Center and Glenwood since 1969 when total enrollment at the two schools was near 2500 students.
      More than four decades later, that enrollment has declined substantially to near 1400 students.
      Despite the declining enrollment, Supt. Frank Lazzeri said federally-mandated legislation passed in the 1970s, the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act, forced Boardman Local Schools to expand opportunities for children with educational challenges.
      “This legislation expanded ten-fold the need to provide extra space in schools for special education classrooms. Consequently, though our middle school enrollment today is about one-half of what it was in 1969, we are bursting at the seams and are in need of space at that level,” Lazzeri said.
      The move to realign the middle schools will help to maximize educational and extra-curricular opportunities for students, the superintendent said.
      Teacher/pupil ratios will be lowered to levels near one teacher for every 20 students, and the curriculum will be geared to providing the same instruction for all students, Lazzeri said.
      Additionally, middle school athletic programs will be more competitive.
      Another factor in the realignment, according to the superintendent is federal funding formulas that provide funds for educational programs.
      Currently about 35 per cent of the 588 students at Center Middle School receive free or reduced-price lunches, while about 40 per cent of the 739-member student body at Glenwood gets free or reduced-priced lunches.
      “That five per cent makes a big difference when applying for many federally-funded grants,” the superintendent said, noting Glenwood received upwards of $125,00 last year in grants funds that Center was not eligible for because of the ratio of free and reduced-priced lunches.
      “Under the realignment, both schools will qualify for the same level of federal funding,” he added.
      Details of the realignment are still being finalized, especially bus transportation.
      “The realignment could increase our transportation costs by at least $60,000, or perhaps a bit less by consolidating some bus routes,” the superintendent said.
      Once the transportation plans are finalized, the system will hold a public meeting to inform the public about middle school plans for next year.
      Presenting reports to the school board last week on the realignment were Lazzeri, Center principal Randall Ebie, Glenwood principal Bart Smith, newly-named Supt. Tim Saxton, and Nick Hewko, middle school athletic director.
      Other Business
      The school board approved a variety of modifications to its student transportation services. Among those modifications was a stipulation limiting the number of bus stops, “so that students from several homes can meet safely at a central point for group pick-up. Pupils in kindergarten through eighth grade may be required to walk up to a half-mile to a designated bus stop...”
      Another modification noted “As part of the district’s ongoing program to improve student discipline and ensure the health, welfare and safety of those riding school transportation vehicles, the school board may also utilize video and audio recording devices on all...vehicles transporting students to and from curricular, co-curricular and extra-curricular activities.”
      The school board approved the transfer of West Blvd. Elementary School head custodian, Rick Hungerford, to first assistant custodian at Boardman High School.
      Parental leaves of absence were granted to Stadium Dr. phys-ed teacher Kendal Daltorio, high school phys-ed teach Kristi Schenker and Glenwood Middle School science teacher Samantha Steel; while unpaid leaves of absence were granted to Glenwood Middle health aide Mary Neff, and high school teacher aide, Nancy Oslin.
      Supplemental contracts were granted to Steve Stahura, Center Middle girls track coach; Dylan Bosela, high school open gym supervisor; Dan Gainey and Marco Marinucci, high school girls assistant softball coaches; and Mike Trell, high school head softball coach.
      Approved as volunteer coaches were John DePietro, John Pallini, John Phillips Jr., Rick Sypert, Victoria Moore, Ashlee Frazini and John Phillips Sr., high school indoor assistant track coaches; Luke Graziani, high school wrestling coach; and David Merry, high school lacrosse head coach.
      The board granted Joyce Mistovich a $5500 stipend as compensation for her work with the high school television network.
      The school board accepted two donations from former board member mark J. Fulks, $400 to the Soller Scholarship Fund, and $100 to the Board of Edcuation/Administrative Scholarship Fund.
      The board adjourned into an executive session.
  Medical Alliance Fashion Show To Benefit Children’s Charities Of The Mahoning Valley  
  February 4, 2016 Edition  
     Alliance will host it’s 12th Annual Champagne Brunch and Fashion Show on Thurs., Mar. 3 at the Maronite Center. All proceeds will benefit Mahoning Valley Children’s Charities.
      The event will begin with a social and raffle at 10:00 a.m. followed by a champagne brunch that includes Lenten selections. A style show will follow presented by Lilly Pulitzer of Legacy Village featuring Alliance members, children and friends as models. Macy’s of Southern Park Mall will be doing hair styling and makeup. Music by Leann Binder/Songmill Studio.
      Cost for the brunch and fashion show is $30 per person, or $40 grand patron. To reserve tickets call the Mahoning Valley Medical Society by Feb. 18 at 330-533-4880. Alliance members will also be selling tickets for a grand Raffle to include: Two tickets to see Carrie Underwood with dinner; Fairchild Baldwin Necklace from Ivory & Birch; Mariana jewelry set from Aebischer’s Jewelry and an Isabelle Bed Bench. Tickets are $5 each or 5 for $20. Need not be present to win.
      Arrangements for the fundraiser are being made by co-chairpersons Carol Sankovic and Diana McDonald and committee members: Katie Altenhof, Tracy Butler, Cassi Calderon, Jenna Cicchillo, Gloria Detesco, Therea Devine, Shelley Duffet, Tammy Engle, Karyn Frederick, Anita Gestosani, Donna Hayat, Paula Jakubek, Rachel Mullis, Jill Neidig, Tricia Potesta, Phyllis Ricchiuti, Elizabeth Roller, Heather Vitvitsky, Barb Vrable and Susan Yarab.
      The Alliance is a volunteer organization comprised of physician spouses who provide support to the community through health education, legislation, community service and fundraising.
  YMCA Hosts 3rd Annual Five-Squared Art Show  
  February 4, 2016 Edition  
     The Davis Family YMCA will host its 3rd annual FIVE-Squared benefit art show and sale Feb. 7-Mar. 7 at the McClurg Road facility.
      An opening reception, free and open to the public, will be held on Sun., Feb. 7, from 1:00 p.m. to 2:30 p.m.
      This year more than 200 local, national, and international artists have donated 610 five-inch by five-inch pieces of art. Among the donations are pieces from disabled children at a Russian orphanage. All of the art, both amateur and professional, is offered for sale for $25 (adult) or $10 (youth) each.
      In addition, seven larger works will be presented at a silent auction, featuring pieces by local artists Al Bright, Nancy Hawkins, Jim O’Malley, Paula Smith, Gary Taneri and Don Wright,
      All proceeds from the event fund the Art Outreach project, which makes it possible for under-served children in Youngstown to receive art lessons.
      All of the art can be viewed online at ymcaart.blogspot.com. For more information, call (330)-480-5656.
      Suzanne Gray is the Davis YMCA Arts & Humanities coordinator.
  Orchid Exhibit  
  February 4, 2016 Edition  
     Mill Creek MetroParks will exhibit Jewels of Winter: Orchids at the D.D. and Velma Davis Education & Visitor Center through Mar. 13.
      Orchids are a jewel of the plant world, full of color. During the heart of winter, find the spirit of the tropics at the Davis Visitor Center and observe many exotic beauties on display. Classes on orchid care are available.
      Hours to visit the exhibit and the Davis Visitor Center are Tuesday through Sunday, from 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. For questions and more information, call Fellows Riverside Gardens at 330-740-7116.
  Ms. Guidos, Mr. Mastramico Mooney Distinguished Alumni Honorees  
  February 4, 2016 Edition  
     The Cardinal Mooney Alumni Association presented its 2016 Distinguished Alumni Awards at a prayer service at 10:45 a.m. on Jan. 27.
      This year’s recipients are Ms. Patricia Guidos, a 1959 graduate; and Thomas Mastramico, who graduated in 1972. The awards are presented annually to graduates who, “demonstrate a continuing concern and dedication for others by embracing the Cardinal Mooney motto of Sanctity, Scholarship, and Discipline.
      Ms. Guidos graduated from Youngstown State University and has completed graduate work at The Ohio State University, the University of Michigan, and Michigan State University. Her career spanned 30 years in the telecommunication industry at Sprint. She traveled extensively across the United States and Europe, holding positions of increasing seniority in management. Upon returning to the Valley in 2001, she began volunteering for many years at St. Elizabeth’s Hospital (Mercy Health) and its cancer center. Currently, she volunteers as a Certified Hospice Champion, also giving time to the St. Vincent de Paul Kitchen, the Poland Pantry, and the Dorothy Day House.
      Mr. Mastramico graduated in 1977 from Youngstown State University, with a bachelor’s degree in music education. He has been instrumental in directing all of the bands in the elementary schools in the Diocese of Youngstown. He plays the trumpet for many churches on special occasions and holidays. He has also played in concert bands, musicals, and the band The Executive Collection.
      Mr. Mastramico resides in Boardman with his wife Jolene. He is a member of St. Luke Parish and is involved with the music ministry program, Knights of Columbus, and the Holy Name Society. He and his wife have two children, Nicholas and Christa.
      Cardinal Mooney President Rev. Gerald DeLucia notes, “Both honorees reflect the ideals of Cardinal Mooney in all that they do. Ms. Guidos and Mr. Mastramico have been positive role models to those that they have touched in their communities. We are proud to name them as our Distinguished Alumni for 2016.”
      Prepared by Cardinal Mooney student Gwen Sieman, under the direction of Mike Latessa,
      school vice president.
  Boardman Schools Fund For Educational Excellence  
  Reverse Raffle Mar. 11 :   February 4, 2016 Edition  
     The Boardman Schools Fund for Educational Excellence will host their First Annual Reverse Raffle Dinner on Mar. 11 at Holiday Inn, 7410 South Ave., Boardman starting at 6:00 p.m.
      Reverse Raffle, Basket Raffle (Baskets donated by students and faculty of Boardman Schools), and a silent auction.
      Dinner tickets are $50, Individual ticket plus a patron listing in program is $100. Sponsorships are available. Call Jody Stepan at 330-726-3404 for tickets or more information.
      The Boardman Schools Fund for Educational Excellence is a component fund of The Community Foundation of the Mahoning Valley, a non-profit organization providing funding for projects to further the educational experience of students.
      Visit www.boardmanschoolsfund.org for more information.
  LEGAL NOTICE  
  January 28, 2016 Edition  
     BOARD OF TRUSTEES BOARDMAN TOWNSHIP
      MAHONING COUNTY, OHIO
      Resolution No. 16-01-25-04
      A resolution for the control of dogs in Boardman Township, specifically the conditions under which a dog may be tethered outdoors.
      The Board of Trustees of Boardman Township, Mahoning County, Ohio met in regular session on January 25, 2016 at the Boardman Township Government Center, with the following members present: Brad Calhoun, Tom Costello, and Larry Moliterno.
      Mr. Calhoun/Costello/Moliterno moved the adoption of the following resolution:
      Whereas, Ohio Revised Code Section 955.221(B)(2) authorizes the Board of Trustees to adopt and enforce resolutions to control dogs within the township that are not otherwise in conflict with any other provision of the Revised Code, if the township is located in a county where the board of county commissioners has not adopted resolutions to control dogs within the unincorporated areas of the county under this section;
      Whereas, the Board of Commissioners of Mahoning County have not adopted a resolution to control dogs within the unincorporated areas of the county under this statutory section;
      Whereas, Ohio Revised Code Section 955.221(A) states that a resolution to control dogs includes, but is not limited to resolutions concerned with the ownership, keeping, or harboring of dogs; the restraint of dogs; dogs as public nuisances; and dogs as a threat to public health, safety, and welfare;
      Whereas, this statutory section exempts the use of any dog which is lawfully engaged in hunting or training for the purpose of hunting while accompanied by a licensed hunter when actually in the field and engaged in hunting or in legitimate training for such purpose;
      Whereas, the Board of Trustees finds that the current statutes do not protect dogs from being tethered in an inhumane manner and that it has the statutory authority under Ohio Revised Code Section 955.221 to adopt this resolution with respect to the ownership, keeping, or harboring of dogs to fill this vacuum;
      Whereas, this resolution may be enforced through the criminal justice system, as Ohio Revised Code Section 955.221(C) states that “[n]o person shall violate any resolution * * * adopted under this section[,]” and Section 955.99(K) provides that whoever violates Section 955.221(C) is guilty of a minor misdemeanor, with each day of continued violation being a separate offense; and
      Now, therefore, be it resolved by the Board of Trustees of Boardman Township, Mahoning County, Ohio that the following resolution is adopted:
      1. No person shall negligently allow a dog to be tethered outdoors in any of the following circumstances:
      (a) For a total of more than six hours in a twenty-four-hour period and for not more than two consecutive hours without at least an hour between tetherings;
      (b) If a heat or cold advisory or a severe weather warning has been issued by the national weather service for the area in which the dog is kept or harbored;
      (c) If any of the following applies to the tether:
      (i) It is less than twenty feet in length.
      (ii) It allows the dog to touch a fence or cross the property line of the owner’s, keeper’s, or harborer’s property.
      (iii) It is attached by means of a pinch-type, prong-type, or choke-type collar, or the collar to which it is attached is unsafe or is not properly fitted.
      (iv) It may cause injury to, or entanglement of, the dog.
      (v) It is made of a material that is unsuitable for the dog’s size and weight or that causes any unnecessary discomfort to the dog.
      (d) If the dog is not provided with a sanitary environment that is free of an accumulation of feces or other waste and insect or rodent infestation and of foul odor;
      (e) If no owner or occupant of the premises where the dog is kept or harbored is present.
      2. As used in this resolution, “tether” means a rope, chain, cord, dog run or pulley, or similar restraint for holding an animal in place that allows a radius in which the animal can move about.
      3. (a) As used in this resolution, “outdoors” means the dog is not being tethered inside a house or principal building. The term “outdoors” includes a dog tethered inside an accessory building, a porch (open or closed), a breezeway, a garage, and a carport.
       (b) As used in this resolution, “accessory building” means a subordinate building, the use of which is customarily incidental to that of the main building, and which is located on the same lot or parcel of land. A shed is included in this definition.
       (c) As used in this resolution, “porch (open)” means a roofed structure, having one or more unenclosed sides, projecting from front, side or rear wall of the building, while “porch (closed)” means a roofed structure, having one or more enclosed sides, projecting from front, side or rear wall of the building.
       (d) As used in this resolution, a “breezeway” means a roofed passageway connecting two buildings, sometimes with the sides enclosed.
       (e) As used in this resolution, “garage” means a detached accessory building or portion of a principal building for the parking or temporary storage of automobiles, boats, and/or trailers.
       (f) As used in this resolution, “car port” means a roofed structure not more than fifty percent (50%) enclosed by walls or doors and attached to the principal building for the purpose of providing shelter to one or more motor vehicles.
      4. This resolution shall be enforced under R.C. §§ 955.221(C) and 955.99(K) by the appropriate law enforcement officers.
      5. Each day of continued violation is a separate offense.
      6. The clerk of the county court shall collect the fines levied and collected for violations of this resolution and shall distribute them to the Fiscal Officer in accordance with Ohio Revised Code Section 1907.20(C) for credit to the general fund of Boardman Township.
      7. This resolution shall become effective at the earliest time permitted by law.
      8. If any paragraph, provision, or section of this resolution is held to be invalid by the final decision of any court of competent jurisdiction, then that decision will not affect the validity of the remaining paragraphs, provisions, or sections of this resolution. The Board declares that it would have adopted this resolution and each paragraph, provision, or section thereof despite the fact that one or more paragraphs, provisions, or sections would be declared invalid.
      9. The Board finds and determines that all formal actions of this Board concerning and relating to the passage of this Resolution were taken in an open meeting of this Board, and that all deliberations of this Board that resulted in such formal action were in meetings open to the public, in compliance with all legal requirements, including R.C. § 121.22.
      10. This Resolution shall take effect and be in force from and after the earliest time provided by law.
      Adopted January 25, 2016
      BY ORDER OF BOARDMAN TRUSTEES
      Larry Moliterno, Chair
      Tom Costello, Vice-Chair
      Brad Calhoun, Trustee
      CERTIFICATION
      I, William D. Leicht, Fiscal Officer of Boardman Township, Mahoning County, Ohio, do hereby certify that the foregoing is taken and copied from the record of proceedings of the township; that the same has been compared by me with the Resolution on said record; and that it is a true and correct copy thereof.
      William D. Leicht,
      Fiscal Officer
  Facebook Posts Deleted After Comments On Sale Of ‘Double Merle’ Puppy At The Harbor Pet Center  
  January 28, 2016 Edition  
     A local woman who monitors the Facebook Page of a local ‘pet’ business, Harbor Pet Center, 7338 Market St., says her posts about a ‘double merle’ sheltie puppy were deleted just five minutes after being posted, and she was ‘blocked’ from making any more posts.
      “I commented on the picture warning potential buyers/educating the public on what a double merle dog actually is,” Gia DeAscentis said.
      Her comment noted the sheltie had a genetic defect, often referred to as ‘double merle’ or ‘lethal merle.’
      “This *sheltie has a genetic defect often referred to as ‘double merle’ or ‘lethal merle.’
      The post continued, “When two merle dogs are bred, there is a 25 per cent possibility that each of the puppies will inherit a merle gene from each parent, resulting in puppies with two merle genes. Their appearance can be appealing to people, but the lack in pigmentation is an indication that there is no melanin where the areas of white fur is on the body.
      “Melanin is what allows a puppy’s eyes and ears to develop normally as a fetus… so, as you can guess these puppies often have non-functional eyes, suffer from blindness/other eye ailments. Deafness is also prevalent in these dogs due to the lack of melanin in the inner ear. This isn’t to say that deafness or blindness couldn’t be managed in a dog, but you shouldn’t be paying a couple thousand dollars for a dog with a handicap. These puppies aren’t going to learn as quickly as typically developing puppies and will require specialized training, which is a reason you’ll see a ton of double merle dogs in shelters.
      “The fact that this puppy even exists is reason enough to reconsider buying him, considering a responsible breeder would never knowingly and willingly breed two merle dogs. It is a known fact that many double puppies come from disreputable sources, such as uninformed backyard breeders or puppy mils (none of which are concerned with the health of the dogs they breed or produce, OR the emotional impact on the unsuspecting families purchasing them). Obviously health problems can (and do) show up in the lines of even the most conscientious breeders’ puppies; the difference being they wouldn’t be stupid enough to sell them to a pet store to be sold at outrageous price to unknowing customers.
      “For more information, visit www.doublemerles.info,” DeAscentis posted.
      “I made a post on my own Facebook explaining what happened and asked people to share. [In one] night, almost 200 people have shared the post...and people were outraged,” Deascentis said.
      Among the responses to her posts;
      “Hmmm as a vet student, I say this will not be a healthy dog without proper care. The things people breed for astound me...”
      -Elizabeth E.
      “Why are you guys deleting informative comments on these dogs? You care so much that you’re willing to sell them without giving potential buyers the full informative extent of their health.”
      -Judy W.
      “Since then.... The comments have ALL been deleted, people have been blocked...
      ...and WORSE OF ALL, that dog is STILL for sale,” DeAscentis said.
  Trustees Limit Time Dogs Can Be Kept Tethered  
  January 28, 2016 Edition  
     By unanimous vote, Boardman Trustees Larry Moliterno, Tom Costello and Brad Calhoun approved a resolution banning the tethering a family pets outdoors in an inhumane manner.
      By resolution, Trustees ordered that “No person shall negligently allow a dog to be tethered outdoors for a total of more than six hours in a 24-hour period and for not more than two consecutive hours without at least an hour between tetherings.”
      Township Administrator, Jason Loree, told Trustees that resolution is modeled after a bill currently before the Ohio House of Representatives, noting “It made a lot of sense to look into this.”
      Loree and Trustee Moliterno noted the resolution was prompted by concerns expressed by several resident, led by Marty Krompegel.
      “I have never had such an outreach,” Loree said of the residents’ concerns. Loree said the resolution had been approved by the township home-rule attorney.
      According to the resolution, pets cannot be tethered outside for more than six hours at a time “If a heat or cold advisory or a severe weather warning has been issued by the national weather service for the area in which the dog is kept or harbored.”
      The resolution will monitor the length of tethers (leashes), whether a dog touches a fence or crosses a property line, prohibits ‘choke-type’ collars, and mandates dogs be kept in sanitary conditions “that is free of an accumulation of feces or other waste, insect or rodent infestation,” or in places where there is a foul odor.
      The resolution defines tethers as “a rope, chain, cord, dog run or pulley, or similar restraint for holding an animal in place that allows a radius in which the animal can move about.”
      The resolution defines outdoors as “the dog is not being tethered inside a house or principal building. The term “outdoors” includes a dog tethered inside an accessory building, a porch (open or closed), a breezeway, a garage, and a carport.”
      Ten people in attendance at the meeting, applauded the move by the Trustees.
      Persons found guilty of not following guidelines can be fined, per day, up to $100.
      Road Superintendent Larry Wilson told Trustees due to mild winter weather to date, that he expects the township’s current supply of salt to last for the rest of the winter.
      Fire Chief Mark Pitzer said the fire department’s ladder truck has been returned from Florida and is back in service. The truck, purchased at a cost of nearly $1 million, two years ago, had broken down no less than four times. Repairs were completed at no cost to the township.
      Pitzer said his department’s $400,000 new engine truck is expected to be in service by the end of March. That truck will replace an engine truck that was totaled last year when it slid off an icy Shields Rd., near West Blvd. The replacement truck is being funded by an insurance claim.
  “The Phenomenon Bruno Groening - On The Tracks of the Miracle Healer”  
  January 21, 2016 Edition  
     Healing and health - is this a dream in our day and age?
     
      Illness - a word that is widely used today. But why? After all, health is a completely natural condition.
      More and more people search for a solution from holistic medicine. On this quest, many people rediscover a completely natural path. The ancient civilizations of humanity spoke of the existence of a higher power that can help and heal. Bruno Groening (1906¨C1959) called this power “Heilstrom” or healing force. Among other things, he taught how one can absorb this natural healing power. Many people have received their health back in this way, including people affected by ailments considered incurable by doctors. The healings are occurring today just as they did back then. A multitude of medically documented healing reports show this is still occurring today.
     
      Please join us for a special showing of a documentary film
      “The Phenomenon Bruno Groening - On The Tracks of the Miracle Healer”
      To be held at:
     
      The Boardman Park @ The Georgeanna Parker Center
      375 Boardman-Poland Road
      Boardman, Ohio 44512
      Sunday, January 24, 2016
      12:00pm - 6:00pm
      (Includes 2 breaks, snacks)
      The Docu-film will be shown in 3 parts. (Each part is approximately 95 minutes)
      Admission free, donations accepted
      www.bruno-groening-film.org
      Organized by: The Circle for Spiritual Aid to Life, Inc.
      Local Contact: Arlene Barkan, Leader of the Youngstown Community & The North American Internet Children’s Community.
      NOTE: Please call Arlene at 330-372-3144 if you will be attending, so a reservation can be made for you.
     
      You are also invited to join us for the following Introduction Lecture
      “Help & Healing on the Spiritual Path through the Teachings of Bruno Groening”
      To be held at, but not affiliated with
      Lord of Life Lutheran Church
      550 North Broad St. (Rt.46)
      Canfield, Ohio 44406
     
      January 28, 2016 @ 5:30p.m. (following the docu-film showing)
      For more information: Internet: www.bruno-groening.org/english
     
  2016-2017 All Day-Every Day Kindergarten Registration Feb. 11  
  January 14, 2016 Edition  
     
      Registration Day for the 2016-2017 school year’s kindergarten to the Boardman Schools will be held on Thurs., Feb. 11. Times for registration will be 9:00 to 11:00 a.m., 1:00 to 3:00 p.m. and 6:00 to 8:00 p.m., in each of our four elementary school offices. It is not necessary for children to accompany their parents.
      The custodial parent or guardian must be a resident of the Boardman Local School District.
      Registration for a new student to the Boardman Schools requires:
       The child must reach age 5 on or before Aug. 1, 2016, if entering kindergarten.
       Completion of a Registration Form.
       Presentation of proof of immunization and completion of the School Health Record. (proof of your child’s immunization is a physician’s statement or immunization card, with dates entered).
       Presentation of official State birth certificate. (If your child was born in Mahoning County, this certificate may be obtained from the Bureau of Vital Statistics, 345 Oak Hill Ave., phone 330-743-3333). Please note that personal checks are not accepted, cash only.
       Presentation of at least two proof of residency forms (e.g. home owner’s tax statement, utility bill, purchase/rental agreement) and a residency affidavit.
       Custody papers, if applicable.
       Payment of a $26 fee to partially cover the cost of supplies furnished by the school.
      Classroom space is limited for kindergarten. Therefore some kindergarten students may be assigned to another building in the district. It is important to register early to ensure assignment to your elementary school of residence.
      School addresses and telephone numbers are as follows:
       Market Street, 5555 Market St., Yo., OH 44512, 330-782-3743.
       Robinwood Lane, 835 Indianola Rd., Yo., OH 44512, 330-782-3164.
       Stadium Drive. 111 Stadium Dr., Yo., OH 44512, 330-726-3428.
       West Boulevard, 6125 West Boulevard, Yo., OH 44512, 330-726-3427.
      Registration for Special Education Programs
      In order to prepare for appropriate school-age educational placement and programming, the Boardman Local Schools’ Special Education Department is currently planning for the evaluation of preschoolers with disabilities that receive services at the Lockwood Preschool site.
      Preschoolers with disabilities that do not receive services at the Lockwood Preschool site and reside in the Boardman Local School District, may contact/refer to the Special Education Office. The referral should include the child’s and parent’s name, address, telephone number, child’s date of birth, and disability category. Please contact the Special Education Office, 7410 Market St., Yo., OH 44512, 330-726-3411.
  Alex Filicky Will Become A Third Generation Eagle Scout, Following His Dad And Grandfather  
  January 14, 2016 Edition  
Alex Filicky
     Boy Scouts of America Troop 60, Boardman, will confer the Eagle Scout award on Sun., Jan. 17 at a Court of Honor ceremony to Alex J. Filicky, 17, son of Ed and Lori Filicky of Boardman.
      Alex was a member of Pack 114 for five years at St. Charles Church and attained the highest honor, the Arrow of Light, in 2009. He also received the Light of Christ Award, Parvuli Dei Award, Gettysburg Historic Awards and the Recruiter award. He has been a member of the Greater Western Reserve Council Boy Scouts of America Troop 60 at Westminster Presbyterian Church since Mar. 10, 2009. His scoutmaster is Byron Harnishfeger. Filicky was inducted into Order of the Arrow, scouting’s honor society, in 2012.
      For his Eagle Scout project, Filicky designed, raised funds and planted a native woodland fern garden in Poland Township Park to add beauty and interest to the nature trail, as well as provide education to park visitors.
      Filicky has held troop positions of den chief, patrol leader and assistant patrol leader. He has earned 35 merit badges and special scout awards of Totin’ Chip, Seven Ranges Fifth Year Pipestone Award, Ad Altare Dei Religious Award, and Valley Forge Pin. He has also earned special troop awards including the Sourdough patch and a six-year service pin. He has participated in summer camp at Seven Ranges Scout Reservation, Klondike Derby competitions, Gettysburg, Oil Creek backpacking and Valley Forge outings.
      Filicky is a senior at Boardman High School, where he is a member of the lacrosse team. He is also a member of the marching band, symphonic band, and Industrial Arts club.
      Filicky is a third generation Eagle Scout, following his father, Ed, and his late grandfather, Andrew Filicky.
  Boardman Kiwanis Donates Carbon Dioxide Detectors  
  January 14, 2016 Edition  
     The Boardman Kiwanis Club has donated 25 carbon dioxide detectors to the Boardman Fire Department. “In speaking with the Fire Chief, we uncovered a need for carbon monoxide detectors for Boardman residents. The Boardman Kiwanis Club is thankful for the Fire Department’s everyday efforts to protect the citizens and property of Boardman, and grateful to participate in prevention efforts with the donation of these detectors,” said Roy Wright, Kiwanis Club President. Chartered in 1947, the Kiwanis Club is Boardman’s longest-serving service club. Pictured, from left Mark Luke, Boardman Kiwanis; Vickie Davis, Boardman Fire Department; Fire Chief Mark Pitzer; Earl Coffin, Boardman Kiwanis; Roy Wright, Kiwanis Club President.
  BOARDMAN LOCAL SCHOOLS OUTPERFORM 17 CHARTER SCHOOLS IN MAHONING COUNTY  
  December 31, 2015 Edition  
     A study conducted by the Ohio Department of Education shows that charter schools score well below public schools in state-mandated testing results, although they receive upwards of 500 to 600 per cent more state per-pupil funding than do public schools.
      Charter schools do not provide the overall curriculum offerings as do the public schools, and most provide a very limited amount of extra-curricular opportunities, if any, when compared to public schools.
      The study, ‘The Ohio Charter School Accountability Project,’ shows the Boardman Local School District far outperforms Mahoning County’s 17 charter schools academically; but the charter schools receive at least 500 per cent more in per-pupil funding. In several comparisons, a few charter schools in Mahoning County receive more than 1000 per cent more in per-pupil funding.
      While the state of Ohio throws more and more money to charter schools, the Supreme Court in the state of Washington has declared charter schools are unconstitutional.
      In Florida, under Gov. Jeb Bush, a charter school in Miami was heralded as a beacon of educational excellence, with strong support from Mr. Bush. When he left office, the charter school closed.
      In the Houston, Texas area, charter school officials kickback thousands of dollars to local politicians and their election campaigns. The politicians, in turn, support charter schools.
      Charter School Accountability Project
      Data from the Ohio Charter school Accountability Project reveals the historic disparity in performance between local public school districts and the state’s charter schools
      Overview
      In comparing school district and charter school performance, the results mirror much of what’s been true since the state’s charter school program began---public school districts substantially outperform charters overall.
      And while, according to the preliminary data, charters overall generally outperform the state’s urban districts, in many urban districts they don’t.
      For example, Akron outperforms charters in all English Language Arts categories and seven of eight categories in math. Cincinnati outperforms charters in 16 of 21 comparable areas.
      “It is important to remember whenever one compares Ohio’s overall charter school performance with urban districts that about half of Ohio’s charter school students do not come from the state’s urban districts. Yet urban districts are more than holding their own with their charter counterparts,” the accountability project concluded.
      Statewide Results
      Ohio’s public school districts, all of whom lost students and state funding to charter schools last year, substantially outperformed the state’s charter schools on the 24 state tests last year. The tests were administered in various grades over four broad topics: English Language Arts, Math, Science and Social Studies.
      On average, public school districts outperformed charter schools in each broad subject area by between 20 and 30 percent on average.
      The biggest difference in any subject was in Integrated Math II where the average Performance Index score in charters was barely above the 30 minimum while the average district Performance Index was 102.8, not far from the maximum score of 120.
      Charter schools did not outperform districts overall in any of the 24 tested subject areas. The closest they came was in geometry, but districts still outperformed charters by more than 19% in that category. It is important to remember when making statewide performance comparisons that about half of charter school students come from districts outside the state’s urban districts.
      And while there are high-performing charters, high-performing districts outperform even them. The Accountability Project analyzed the top 25 scores of each charter and district in each broad category, regardless of which grade level test those scores occurred. In each case, the average high district score was much higher than the average high charter school score.
      Likewise, the average of the 25 lowest-performing districts were much better than the average of the 25 lowest-performing charter schools. In fact, the disparity was so great in English Language Arts that nearly 20 percent of all charter tests in that subject area were lower than the lowest performing urban district in any category.
      Boardman Local Schools Outperform
      The 17 Charter Schools In Mahoning County
      According to the Accountability Project, the Boardman Local School District lost some $864,155 in state subsidies last year to vastly underperforming charter schools. And, that money was provided to charter schools with little or no oversight, and no public representation through elected officials such as local school boards.
      For example, the Horizon Science Academy of Youngstown, operated by the Chicago-based Concepts School, scored a D on the performance index established by the Ohio Department of Education. Boardman Local Schools lost $27,516 in state subsidies to the Horizon Academy, that gets $7,479 in state funding per student.
      By contrast, the Boardman Local School’s Performance Index is at B-plus, according to Supt. Frank Lazzeri, and the local public school system receives just $1,543 in state subsidies per-pupil funding.
      In addition, the average teacher experience in the Boardman Local Schools is 15 years, while at the Horizon Academy, teachers have an average of just two years of classroom experience.
      Concept Schools have known links to the ‘Gulen Movement.’ The Gulen movement is a transnational religious and social movement led by Turkish Islamic scholar and preacher Fethullah Gulen, who now lives in exile in Pennsylvania.
      Wikpedia describes the Gulen movement as---“Sources state that the Gulen movement is vying to be recognized as the world’s leading Muslim network, one that is more reasonable than many of its rivals.”
      Jeb Bush’s Charter School
      The New York Times said this about a charter school in Miami, founded with the strong support of Jeb Bush.
      “Now trash and fronds from the palm trees that students planted litter the grounds, and cafeteria tables are folded away in a dark doorway. Jeb Bush’s charter school is a ruin baking in the Miami sun.
      “Co-founded in 1996 by Mr. Bush with what he called in an email a ‘powerful sense of pride and joy,’ Liberty City Charter School was the first school of its kind in Florida and a pioneer in a booming industry and national movement.
      The New York Times article said Bush championed “charter schools, funded largely by taxpayers but run by private companies, as a free-market antidote to liberal teachers’ unions and low performance.”
      It would appear from the Ohio Charter School Accountability Project findings, low performance has become a hallmark of charter schools in Ohio, especially when compared to the public schools, just like Liberty City.
      By 2008 and hundreds of thousands of taxpayer dollars later, Liberty City Charter School closed.
      In The State of Washington
      Supreme Court Said Charter Schools Illegal
      In the state of Washington, the Supreme Court ruled on Sept. 4 that the state’s voter-approved charter school law is unconstitutional, mainly because the schools are overseen by boards that are appointed rather than elected.
      In Ohio
      Sandy Theis is the executive director of ProgressOhio, which has long been critical of Ohio’s charter-school industry.
      “The worst performing charter schools own all three branches of state government,” Theis says.
      Theis says Gov. John Kasich has taken no leadership to clean up charter schools, and state lawmakers have been sitting on a charter-school reform bill.
      The Ohio Supreme Court hasn’t shown the collective wisdom of the Washington State Supreme Court and in the Buckeye state, these vastly underperforming charter schools continue to drain millions of dollars away from the public schools, with little or no accountability.
      Such a lack of oversight has put the teachers unions at public schools on notice, and in the background, that is where the battle lines have been drawn, as the unions fear their demise if public dollars keep going to largely private, charter schools, that too often operate under the misnomer, “Public charter schools.”
  Saxton Named Superintendent Of Boardman Local School District  
  December 31, 2015 Edition  
Tim Saxton
     Meeting on Monday night, Dec. 21, the Boardman Local School Board named Timothy L. Saxton, 49, as its next superintendent, effective Aug. 1.
      Saxton, whose father, Larry, served as Boardman superintendent from 1996-2000, will assume his duties on Aug. 1, 2016.
      Saxton’s salary has yet to be set. He has served the local system since 2013 as director of operations, a position that carried an $89,000 annual salary.
      Saxton has a long relationship with the local district, beginning as a 1984 graduate of Boardman High School. He served as Boardman High School Principal for 11 years, before he took his current position as Director of Operations. As operations director, he was instrumental in planning and fundraising for the new Boardman Stadium.
      Lazzeri served as superintendent sin Aug. 1, 2004. He said he would like to spend more time with his grandchildren, after a lifetime in public education.
      “Mr. Saxton and I have worked closely for a number of years and he is more than ready to assume the superintendency. His vision for the future of the district coupled with his intellect and work ethic translate to a sure-fire formula for success. The Boardman Schools are in good hands with Tim,” Lazzeri said.
      While a student at Boardman High School, Saxton excelled in the classroom and in athletics while also being an active member of the orchestra. He is a graduate of Grove City College, and received his Masters Degree from Westminster College
      He has taught in the Bedford School District in Cleveland, and served as a teacher, coach and assistant principal in the Canfield Schools prior to coming to Boardman.
      Saxton resides in Boardman with his wife, Gina, and their three children, Anna and twins Ashley and Alicia. All three of their daughters attend Boardman High School.
      Saxton is a member of Boardman United Methodist Church, where he serves as lay leader. He is also a member of the Ohio Association of School Business Administrators, and also holds a superintendent’s license.
      Pictured:  THE BOARDMAN BOARD OF Education has named Tim Saxton, pictured, as superintendent of schools, replacing the retiring Frank Lazzeri, effective Aug. 1, 2016. Saxton’s father, Larry, served as superintendent of Boardman Local Schools, from 1996-2000.
  Boardman Park Reservations 2016-2017  
  December 31, 2015 Edition  
      Boardman Park, Your Hometown Park, nestled in the heart of Boardman on 227 acres of natural beauty, has become a very popular place for families to gather and enjoy hosting their favorite events as well as creating memories. Whether a graduation party, bridal or baby shower, wedding, birthday party, reunion, business meeting or a special family function, we offer 4-indoor rooms and 5-seasonal open-air pavilions to accommodate 40 to 232 guests at an affordable price.
      If you are planning a wedding, the Gazebo, Maag Outdoor Theatre and St. James Meeting House, Boardman’s most prominent historical landmark, lend themselves as unique and beautiful settings for your most special occasions.
      We are pleased to announce that there will not be an increase in our reservation fees,
      in addition, discounted rates will still be available for Boardman Residents. Facilities are available for rent year-round. You may provide (cook) your own food or bring a caterer of your choice.
      For your enjoyment and convenience, the Park provides a variety of outdoor recreational facilities in close proximity to the reservable facilities, e.g. baseball fields, playgrounds,
      walking/hiking trails tennis and sand volleyball courts.
      Boardman Park is currently taking reservations for 2016. Reservations for 2017 will be open for availability online beginning January 1, 2016 on our website www.boardmanpark.com OR Monday, January 4, 2016, through the Park Office by calling 330-726-8105 or visiting the Park Office at 375 Boardman-Poland Rd. in the Georgeanna Parker Activity Center. Office hours are 8am-5pm Monday –Friday.
      For more information about Boardman Park’s Facilities,
      Programs or Events, visit our website, www.boardmanpark.com.
  Gretta Knows.....  
  HAPPY HOWL-IDAYS:   December 24, 2015 Edition  
     Happy Howl-idays my friends! I wish you could join us in our heavenly paradise! Dogs and cats are barking, meowing, and howling as they run about! There’s a magic in the air. You can feel it surround you! It enters your heart and soul! It’s a peace, a joy that makes us all want to jump and twist and shake. It’s Christmas! What a joyful time of the year.
      My heavenly pals and I gather at the top of the meadow hill daily, watching everyone in our home towns get ready for Christmas. Seeing our master’s families gather together brings memories of our many Christmas seasons with them. Remembering the smiles and hearing the laughter of family and friends. Gifts were given, and loving hugs were shared. I especially remember the luscious treats that were passed to me and the kind gentle strokes given by so many. Love was all around, and shared by all!
      We recall how our masters would always go to church on Christmas Eve, to celebrate the birth of Jesus. Then they would return and the festivities would begin. They’d sing these Christmas songs that would make us howl! And howl!
      On Christmas morning many of the heavenly pals recall being awaken to the sound of footsteps rushing to see what was under the tree. I’d always pick my spot and lay by the tree to be right in the middle of the crumpled wrapping paper to watch and feel the excitement of the children opening their gifts.
      My masters always had a way of making me feel a part of the family as they would make a big fuss over me, calling my name, getting me to my feet by saying ‘look what we have for’ and then petting my back, as they made their way over to the chimney. They’d take down a stocking with my name on it and lay it right in front of me. Ooooh, yummy yummy, a stocking filled with bones, chew toys, biscuits and even tennis balls. How special that gift was! They remembered me and made me feel so special and so loved! It’s not the size of the gift, but the love expressed in giving!
      All the heavenly pals barked as we counted our blessings….to be loved and treated so special, brought a big doggy grin to us all.
      From a distance Sady the guard dog, howled for us to come to the sight of the Rainbow bridge. We have all worked hard over the past few months to make a new pathway for our brothers and sisters to stroll down when they come to join us in our heavenly home. We have howled and barked at our heavenly meetings trying to design a peaceful pathway for others to enter their new paradise. After some yelping we decided to name it Pawprints to Paradise.
      As we get closer to the new Pathway, Sady explained that there are two dogs whom will be arriving shortly, just in time for Christmas. Anxiously we stand and wait! Sady suddenly begins his walk to meet the new arrivals.
      I notice two dogs, one being a cockapoo and the other had beautiful white fur and brown patches. Both dogs have their heads lowered as Sady barks gently to them, welcoming them to their new heavenly home. The cockapoo barks that his name is Charity and his new found pal is Crawford. Crawford is a little timid so Charity continues to bark for him as he explains how they met on their journey here to their new home.
      Sady barks, ‘when you are ready you can follow the Pawprints to Paradise pathway, where you will meet our heavenly pals who are anxiously waiting to meet you.’’ Charity sadly barks, we will never be able to see our masters again and Crawford whines softly.
      Sady barks softly, you may not be able to sit or lay next to them or feel their loving touch, but you will always be able to watch them and the loving memories you created together, will always remain in your hearts.
      As Sady disappears down the pathway, Crawford yelps to Charity, it’s so hard to leave the security and love that we knew. I want to go back! Charity murmurs, “lift up your head and take a look around. This is a beautiful place. Let’s go over to check out the Pathway to Paradise”…. Carwford hesitantly follows Charity.
      They both stop and look up, rays of warm sunshine are reaching peacefully for the ground as the wind gently produces a symphony of sounds, leaves rustling, flowers swaying, birds flying and singing. It is a breathtaking pathway, filled with a peace and warmth that wraps Charity and Crawford in a secure comfort, bringing a quiet calm to their doggy hearts and souls.
      As they continue to walk, weaving through the Pathway, Charity and Crawford’s heads rise, and they begin to feel a joy, noticing a prance to their step….the sadness of leaving their masters, families and friends begins to leave and is replaced by a joy in anticipation for what lies ahead!
      At the end of the Pathway they notice words inscribed in the large oak tree, ‘What we have once enjoyed we can never lose; All that we love deeply, becomes a part of us forever.’
      As Charity and Crawford look outward, they see all the heavenly dogs and cats, suddenly hearing barks, meows, howls, all welcoming the two. Charity and Crawford both turn their heads looking back at the Pathway... barking this message to their masters.
      ‘Do not mourn our passing, for we wish you could see by leaving all our earthly bonds, we’re young again and free. By day we run the Heavenly meadows, our bodies healthy and strong. At night we sleep curled up at Angels’ feet, dreaming of all our days spent with you. So do not mourn our passing, just close your eyes.....you’ll see we’ are now running with our Heavenly Pals and our tails are always ‘awaggin.
      As the heavenly pack begins to make their way up the meadow hill, they stop and turn and in unison howl a message to their masters, ‘when you feel us in your heart, just look up and we’ll be right here......Wishing you a blessed Merry Christmas and a Pawsitively, Hi-Paws, Happy New Year.
     
      Dedicated with love to the masters of Charity, Dawn Elaine and Mike Muder and the masters of Crawford, Taylor and Peggy Evans.
     
      Gretta, a Golden Retriever, spent almost 15 years at
      The Boardman News. She greeted all who entered with a wag of her tail! She died in November of 2012.
      Send your animal tributes/stories to: The Boardman News,
      8302 Southern Blvd., S2A, Boardman, OH 44512 or
      email to: bnewsgsd@gmail.com
  Lucia Celebration Dec. 13 At Bethel Lutheran Church  
  To receive peace flame :   December 10, 2015 Edition  
      On Sun., Dec. 13 during the 11:00 a.m. St. Lucia Celebration and Children’s Christmas Pageant, Boy Scouts from Boardman will deliver the International Peace Light to Bethel Lutheran Church, 425 Crestview Dr., and transfer the Peace Light flame to the church.
      Bethel Lutheran is hosting the International Peace Light and making it available to the public for the holidays, Mondays thru Thursdays, from 9:30 a.m. until 3:00 p.m. each day by coming to the church office thru Dec. 23; and once again on Dec. 29-30. Windproof candles or lanterns are good tools to take home the light, but are not provided, so please bring them with you to receive the flame. Contact the church office with any questions at 330-758-5745.
      In the Church of the Nativity in Bethlehem there are 15 oil lamps that have been burning continuously for over 1,000 years. This is the Peace Light flame. The Peace Light from Bethlehem campaign was originally organized by the Austrian Broadcasting Company and was part of a large charitable relief mission, ‘Light into Darkness,’ for children in need in Austria and abroad. Since 1986, the Austrian Boy Scouts and Girl Guides have been distributing the Peace Light throughout Austria. The light has traveled from Vienna to more than 30 European countries.
      Austrian Airlines has been flying the Peace Light on to New York City since 2001. This year, the Light arrived at JFK International Airport on Nov. 28 and is traveling from there as far north as Winnipeg, Ontario, Canada and as far west as Los Angeles, California. through the efforts of many Scouters.
      For the fifth consecutive year, the Boys Scouts of America/Greater Western Reserve Council will bring the Peace Light flame to northeast Ohio and Boardman. Scouters and friends have accepted the challenge to become channels of peace by receiving the flame and passing it on to others in their communities and beyond.
      Jason Wolf, scout executive of the Greater Western Reserve Council commented that “People appreciate the opportunity of spreading the message of Peace in their communities, this is why we are a part of this effort.”
      People of all faiths are welcome to come and receive the light and a wish for peace.
  LEGAL NOTICE  
  December 10, 2015 Edition  
     The Board of Trustees of Boardman Township will conduct a Public Hearing on the following amendment to the Boardman Township Zoning Resolution and Township Zoning Map on Monday, December 28, 2015 at 10:30 A.M. in the Marie P. DeBartolo Meeting Room, Boardman Township Government Center, 8299 Market Street, Boardman, Ohio, 44512. Texts and map of the proposed changes may be viewed in the Zoning Office, same address, between the hours of 8:00 A.M. and 4:00 P.M. Monday through Friday, until the time of the hearing.
      This is the final hearing in determination of this case. The Board shall either act immediately or within twenty (20) days from the conclusion of this hearing.
      AMENDMENT A-2015-11
      Robert Pavlov, 132 Island Drive, Boardman, Ohio, 44512, property owner and agent on behalf of Donna Koziorynsky, 1150 Madonda Street, Boardman, Ohio, 44512, requests the rezoning of four (4) parcels located along the northeast corner of the Madonda Street – South Avenue intersection. The requested parcels are known as:
      • Parcel 29-021-0-193.00-0, part lot 1 of the Dalzell Plat, 0.50 acres in size, request to rezone from a Business zoning district to a Commercial zoning district in its entirety;
      • Parcel 29-021-0-192.00-0, part lot 1 of the Dalzell Plat, 0.50 acres in size, request to rezone from a Business zoning district to a Commercial zoning district in its entirety;
      • Parcel 29-021-0-191.00-0, 5009 South Avenue, 1.01 acres in size, request to rezone from a Business zoning district to a Commercial zoning district in its entirety; and
      • Parcel 29-021-0-195.00-0, 5001 South Avenue, 0.93 acres in size, currently a Business zoning district to a depth of 350’ from the centerline of South Avenue with the remainder zoned Residential R-2 zoning district, requested to rezone to a Commercial zoning district in its entirety.
      All parcels located in Boardman Township, Mahoning County, State of Ohio.
      Brad Calhoun, Chair
      Board of Trustees, Boardman Township
      Sarah Gartland, Zoning Inspector
     
  LEGAL NOTICE  
  December 10, 2015 Edition  
     NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING
      The Boardman Township Board of Appeals shall hold a Public Hearing on Tuesday, December 22, 2015 at 7:00 P.M., at the Boardman Township Government Center, 8299 Market Street, Boardman Township, Ohio, 44512, for consideration of the following cases:
      APPEAL CASE AC-2015-30
      Randy M. Horton, 133 Boardman Poland Road, Boardman, Ohio 44512, appeals the decision of the Boardman Township Zoning Inspector in the review and denial of Zoning Permit Application Number 2015-0402, November 11, 2015. The review pertains to signage proposed to be installed at 133 Boardman Poland Road, Lot 6 of the J.R. Long Plat, also known as 29-031-0-009.0-0. Said property is zoned Commercial in Boardman Township, Mahoning County, State of Ohio.
      Text and maps of the request may be viewed at the Boardman Township Zoning Office, 8299 Market Street, Boardman, Ohio, 44512, Monday through Friday, between the hours of 8:00 A.M. and 4:00 P.M. until time of the hearing.
      Atty. John Shultz, Chairman
      Boardman Township Board of Appeals
      Sarah Gartland, Zoning Inspector
     
  Annual Orchestra Festival Dec. 16 At BHS Arts Center  
  December 10, 2015 Edition  
     The award-winning Boardman High School Symphony, Chamber, and Classical Orchestras will present their annual Winter Orchestra Festival on Wed., Dec. 16 at 7:00 p.m. in the Boardman Performing Arts Center.
      The 36-member Chamber Orchestra, featuring the top string players in the BHS Orchestra program, will open the program with the first movement of Leos Janacek’s “Idyll.” They will then perform the entire “Christmas Concerto” by Arcangelo Corelli. The concerto will feature Julian Reyes and Aadam Zocolo on violin, and Simon Pusateri on cello.
      Senior solo competition winner, Vince Huzicka, will then take the stage. He will perform the first movement of “The D Major Viola Concerto” by German composer Karl Stamitz.
      Huzicka is the son of Monica Huzicka and Jeff Huzicka. He began taking private lessons in fifth grade with Bill Amendol, then took lessons with Ms. Leslie Dubiel, and currently studies with Vince Scacchetti.
      Huzicka joined orchestra in fifth grade and has been a part of Boardman’s Symphony and Chamber Orchestras for all four years of high school. In addition, he has played in most of the school musicals, most notably Phantom of the Opera and Nevermore. He also has been a member of the school’s rock orchestra, Project Mayhem, and has played electric viola on the concerts for the past two years.
      Huzicka is the president of the Boardman Orchestra, the head librarian, and is also a manager. He has played in the Youngstown Symphony Youth Orchestra for five years, and has been Principal Chair for the past two years. In 2014 and 2015, he played in the Northeast Ohio Regional Orchestra and was principal chair for the 2015 concert. In Jan., 2016, he will represent Boardman in the All-State Orchestra. Vince also plays in a string quartet with his friends, performing at weddings, dinners, and various other occasions. He teaches private lessons, as well.
      Huzicka has earned a host of laurels, including the Director’s Award in eighth grade, the Most Improved Freshman Award, the Outstanding Sophomore Award, the Section Leader Award in 10th and 11th grades, and the Torch Bearer Award in 11th grade from the Boardman Orchestra. He has participated in OMEA Solo and Ensemble since seventh grade, receiving all Superior Ratings. He won the Maestro Award for solo Viola Performance from the Chicago Heritage Music Festival in Apr., 2015.
      In May, Huzicka and friend Julian Reyes played in the Yehudi Menuhin Seminar at San Francisco State University where they had the opportunity to play with the Alexander String Quartet and the Afiara String Quartet in many master classes. While there, they placed third in the Galante Chamber Music Competition, winning full-tuition scholarships to the university.
      In addition to his involvement in the arts, Huzicka is vice-president of National Honor Society, President of Italian National Honor Society, an executive member of Italian Club, a member of Big Spartan-Little Spartan, a creative writer for the school’s satirical newspaper, The Funyun, and is a varsity member of the Quiz Bowl team. He maintains a 3.94 gpa in school and plans to double major in music performance and economics in college.
      Huzicka will dedicate his Dec. 16 performance to his private teacher, Vince Scacchetti, for his mentorship, artistic talent, and guidance.
      To conclude the Dec. 16 concert, the 114-member BHS Symphony Orchestra will take the stage to perform “Slavonic Dance No.10, Opus 72” by Czech composer Antonin Dvorak, “Egmont Overture” by German composer Ludwig Van Beethoven. In addition to these well-known classical pieces, the group will perform holiday favorites: “Tintinabulations,” “Carol of the Bells” and the timeless classic “Sleigh Ride” by American composer Leroy Anderson.
      Admission is a $3/adults, and $1/students. Pre-schoolers and senior citizens are admitted free of charge.
  WHMHS Presents Memories of A Lifetime Dec. 19  
  December 10, 2015 Edition  
     The William Holmes McGuffey Historical Society will present Memories of A Lifetime by Storyteller Regina Rees, Y.S.U. Professor Emeritus, on Sat., Dec. 19 at 10:00 a.m. at Kravitz’s Deli Meeting Room, 3135 Belmont Ave., Liberty Township.
      Regina Rees will present not usually heard Christmas stories from the past. This program includes ancient tales, other than traditional Santa Claus and Nutcracker holiday fare. Adults may find these alternative holiday works both curious and amusing.
      This event is open to the public. Free admission and refreshments. A 50/50 raffle available with a Good Will offereing accepted.
      Fore reservations call 330-726-8277. Walk-ins are welcome.
  CHRISTMAS LORE.....  
  December 10, 2015 Edition  
     By Richard S. Scarsella
      Holidays rekindle fond memories of times past. Regardless of what has or has not happened in our lives, we inevitably revisit yesterdays, for comfort and reflection, during the holidays.
      In the once bustling Mahoning Valley, tri-county area residents doggedly headed to Youngstown’s crowded central business district, in search of memorable gifts. Glittering specialty boutiques, trendy shoe stores, fashionable diamond jewelers, fussy gentlemen tailors, style salons and landmark department stores welcomed intrepid shoppers with great hospitality.
      Well into the 1960’, Federal Street was a thriving avenue of trade. Fleets of yellow and checkered cabs delivered patrons to storefronts. Elephantine-like buses stopped at each downtown corner block, much to the exasperation of motorists. Throngs of pedestrians choked walkways and intersections, with jaywalkers receiving tickets from ever-vigilant traffic cops and beat officers. Festive decorations featuring bells, Santa’s and snowmen were hung elegantly by the Downtown Board of Trade and adorned store facades and light poles.
      The traditional Central Square Christmas tree and crèche were breathtaking, in their symbolism and size. Despite automobile fumes, industrial smog, flocks of pigeons and steam escaping from street manholes, we enjoyed our days of “going to town.” Eating lunch at a chrome counter, in an art deco five-and-dime store was a novelty. Buying a Struss’ chocolate malt in the bargain basement or on the mezzanine was a special treat. “Taking in a movie”, at a grand movie palace, was a side trip into another dimension. A journey into the city was full of welcomed diversions.
      Area churches, usually somber and drab, suddenly came to life, once they were festooned with boughs of evergreens, colorful ribbons and fresh garland. European clarions chimed robustly with religious favorites such as Silent Night and Come All Ye Faithful. Of course, the ubiquitous Salvation Army red kettles and bell ringers, along with the forlorn pan-handlers, encouraged us to share with those less fortunate. Our strident Mid-western ethic constantly reminded us to guard against frivolity.
      The observations of the birth of Christ and of New Year’s necessitated obligatory visits to ancestral cemeteries. Hand-carved headstones, both new and weathered, were lovingly decorated with votive candles, religious emblems, artificial poinsettias and black wreaths. Local graveyards become hosts to carloads of kin paying earnest respects. Oddly, the departed seemed particularly close to us, as we rejoiced without their earthly presence. Widows, widowers and orphans were known to be stricken with a touch of melancholy, as the merriment commenced.
      I can still clearly recall inviting the mailman and milkman into the house on Christmas Eve, for fresh egg-nog and fruitcake. It seems like yesterday when we would peruse corner Christmas tree lots debating the pros and cons of long and short needle freshly cut trees. Purchasing extra greenery for the mantle, staircase and dining room table was a task entrusted to the youngest children, old maids and the elderly.
      When all the gifts had been wrapped, after the Christmas tree was lit and when company had gone home, the evenings oftentimes ended with families singing carols around an old upright or parlor grand piano. Special radio and television programs also fueled our holiday cheer.
      To this day, when I hear Bing Crosby, Frank Sinatra, Perry Como, Judy Garland, Kate Smith or Brenda Lee sing Christmas standards such as White Christmas, I am transported back to earlier simpler times. We did not know it then but we do now. Those were the good old days. And I expect them to be time immemorial.
      The above selection is an excerpt from Memories and Melancholy: Reflections on the Mahoning Valley and Youngstown, Ohio, iUniverse, 2005, by Richard S. Scarsella. You can order this book from Amazon.com and other fine booksellers.
     
  ACH Christmas Tree Lighting  
  December 10, 2015 Edition  
     photo/Howard Reese
       AKRON CHILDRENS HOSPITAL, 6505 MARKET ST., HELD its annual Christmas tree lighting ceremonies on Thurs., Dec. 3 and used the event as a stage to announce some $18.6 million in building expansion on the campus. Announcement of the expansion plans made no mind to kids who visited Santa, including one and a half-year-old Sophia Bennett.
  Hearing Set Dec. 1 On Proposed Drug Treatment Facility  
  New Day Recovery LLC Wants To Open 16-Bed Facility:   November 26, 2015 Edition  
      A zoning hearing has been scheduled for Tues., Dec. 1 at 7:00 p.m. at the Boardman Township Government Center for a proposed drug treatment center on Boardman-Canfield Rd., near several residential streets, including Harrington Ave., Mill Creek Blvd., Ron Joy Place and Pinewood Dr.; and across the street from East and West Parkside Drives.
      According to documents filed with the Boardman Zoning Department, the in-patient facility for addiction treatment would be located at 920 and 960 Boardman-Canfield Rd. and operated by New Day Recovery LLC that was formed in Aug., 2015.
      The permit is being sought by Felix Savon, owner of Savon Enterprises LLC, of 830 Boardman-Canfield Rd.; and Tom Ivany and Kim DiPillo, of New Day Recovery.
      “We want to open a 16-bed, sub-acute detox facility,” Savon said in documents filed with the Zoning Office.
      A hearing on the matter was held on Tues., Oct. 27, when the Boardnman Zoning Board of Appeals turned down the request.
      Savon said the buildings the drug treatment center would occupy have been vacant for over a year.
      According to Savon, clients “will be provided with ‘medication’ to alleviate their discomfort and make them as comfortable as possible.”
  HAPPY THANKSGIVING  
  November 26, 2015 Edition  
     May you and your family have a Blessed Thanksgiving!
     
      Not what we say about our blessings,
      but how we use them,
      Is the true measure of Thanksgiving.
      -- WT Purkiser
     
     
     
     
  The Future Of Southern Park  
  November 19, 2015 Edition  
     Cheddars, a restaurant located at the Southern Park Mall, has announced it is closing its doors. The closing, along with other factors, raises concerns about the future well-being of the mall.
      The Southern Park Mall is located on a somewhat ‘land-locked property’ that it some cases prevents its expansion.
      Anyone who needs a comparison can look at the Eastwood Mall complex in Trumbull County.
      In addition, since the property was sold more than a decade ago to the Simon Corp., the mall has in no way been maintained, or marketed, as it was by its founder, the Edward J. DeBartolo Corp.
      The lack of maintenance, and exceptionally poor marketing, combined with a lack of a tenant mix, particularly so-called high-end businesses, impacts the customer base attracted to the mall.
      Often, as compared to it heydays under the DeBartolo Corp., consumers suggest they now don’t go to the mall on weekends.
      Additionally, a new shopping center is currently under construction along Rt. 7 in Columbiana, at the intersection of Rt. 14. It will provide competition for the customer base at the Southern Park Mall.
      The Southern Park Mall was a much better place to shop when it was locally owned.
      These factors cause concern for the future viability of the Southern Park Mall. They should not go overlooked.
  December Holiday Events At Boardman Park  
  November 19, 2015 Edition  
     Boardman Park will continue a long-standing tradition of holiday events during the month of December, including Sun., Dec. 6 with a community Christmas event, including the lighting of the community Christmas tree at 6:00 p.m.
      Following is a listing of December events in the park:
      Thurs., Dec. 3
      Senior Fun Day 10:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m.
      Seniors, come out to Boardman Park and enjoy some wonderful activities. Exercising, crafts, blood pressure screening, lunch and bingo will take place in the Lariccia Family Community Center. Cost is $1/person. To RSVP call 330-965-0482. Sponsored by Shepherd of the Valley, Senior Independence, Boardman Park.
      Sunday, Dec. 6
      Community Christmas 4:00 p.m. to 6:00 p.m.
      Create a new family tradition by gathering your family and friends and coming out to Boardman’s Community Christmas, to decorate your own family named tree, see Santa and enjoy Holiday music. Beginning at 4pm-bring some natural decorations and decorate one of the Park’s pine trees. Some decorating examples would be: pine cones covered in peanut butter, birdseed, cereal/popcorn strings, bagels, orange slices, use your imagination and have fun with it! Reserve your tree by calling the Park Office at 330-726-8105 or e-mailing Angela at angela@boardmanpark.com. Santa will be arriving by fire truck at 4:20 p.m. Be sure to bring your camera and take a picture with Santa in the Gazebo. Then, head up to The St. James Meeting House and enjoy some cookies and hot chocolate while listening to Christmas music and caroling led by Tom Ruggieri and Linda Smrek and The Boardman High School Band beginning at 4:30 p.m. The lighting of the Community Christmas Tree will take place at 4:45 p.m.
      All activities are free and will take place near the Gazebo and St. James Church.
      Tues., Dec. 8 and Wed., Dec. 9
      Supper With Santa 5:30 p.m. to 7:30 p.m.
      Come and join Santa Claus for supper. Enjoy his company while you eat, make crafts, and listen to some music. A professional picture with Santa is included in the fee. There is no better way to celebrate the holiday season than with Jolly Old St. Nick. $7 per Boardman Resident/ $9 for Non-Residents. (children ages 2 and under are free). Tickets can be purchased at the Park Office or at boardmanpark.com. Tickets will not be sold at the door.
      Tues., Dec. 15 and Wed., Dec. 16
      Santa’s Calling 6:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m.
      Boardman Park will be assisting Santa with a direct line from the North Pole to the Community. Parents who would like their children, ages 3-8, to receive a phone call from Santa can pick up a form at the Boardman Park Office or it can be downloaded from our website, www.boardmanpark.com. Completed forms should be returned to the Park Office, 375 Boardman-Poland Rd. or faxed to 330-726-4562. Deadline is Dec. 14. Since this is a busy time for Santa, he will only have time for one phone call to each family. It’s very important that you are home during your scheduled time. There is no fee for the phone call.
      Thurs., Dec. 17
      Senior Fun Day 10:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m.
      Seniors, come out to Boardman Park and enjoy some wonderful activities. Exercising, crafts, blood pressure screening, lunch and bingo will take place in the Lariccia Family Community Center. Cost is $1/person. To RSVP call 330-965-0482.
      Sat., Dec. 19
      The Elegant String Quartet Holiday Concert
      5:00 p.m. to 6:30 p.m.
      Enjoy this free concert of Holiday favorites played with such elegance and grace. Come add a touch of class to your holiday by listening to the sounds of warmth and tradition. The concert will take place in the St. James Meeting House which will be lavished with handmade decorations created by the Holborn Herb Growers Guild.
      Mon., Dec. 21
      Cookies for Santa 5:30 p.m. to 7:30 p.m.
      Do you love making cookies with the kids but hate the mess and the clean up? Come to Boardman Park and enjoy making cookies for Santa with your children. Children will enjoy making cut-out cookies, holiday Grinch waffles, decorating their masterpieces, crafts and much more. This is ooey-gooey fun for all! Cost: $5 per Boardman resident child/$7 Non-resident child (Parents and children under 2 are free) Tickets can be purchased at the Park Office beginning 11/9/15. No tickets will be sold at the door.
      For more information on these and upcoming Park Events contact the Park Office at 330-726-8107 or visit our website www.boardmanpark.com
  LEGAL NOTICE  
  November 12, 2015 Edition  
     PUBLIC NOTICE
      Boardman Township Civil Service Commission - Full-Time Entry Level Police Officer, Boardman, OH - $34,530.00 Annual Salary. The complete job announcement and application with available bonus points can be viewed on the Boardman Township website: www.boardmantwp.com .
      Applications will be available electronically via the Boardman Township Website www.boardmantwp.com or by email request to boardmancivilservice@gmail.com, from November 6, 2015 through December 17, 2015. Office hours: by appointment only, please call (330)726-4177 x 61701 during normal business hours or (330)540-8204 after 4pm.
      Completed applications will be accepted beginning December 8, 2015 from 9-12pm and 2-5pm Monday - Friday until December 17, 2015, except weekends & holidays. The Boardman Civil Service Office is located at the Boardman Township Fire Department, 136 Boardman-Poland Rd, Boardman, Ohio. If you encounter an unforeseeable scheduling conflict, please contact (330) 540-8204 for further assistance.
      Applicants must obtain a Certificate of Completion, at the applicant’s expense, for physical agility from Cuyahoga Community College to participate in the written examination. Test dates are November 15, 2015, December 13, 2015 or January 17, 2016.
      The written examination will be administered on January 20, 2016 in the cafeteria of the Boardman Senior High School located at 7777 Glenwood Avenue, Boardman, Ohio.
  It’s going to be a mild winter!  
  November 12, 2015 Edition  
      Boardman Trustee Brad Calhoun observed on Monday night that the squirrels have not been busy gathering nuts from the ground this fall, a sure sign, according to an old sage of a mild winter!
  Boardman Middle Schools  
  Holiday Concerts Dec 10 & Dec 11:   November 12, 2015 Edition  
     Boardman Middle Schools will present two band holiday concerts on Thurs., Dec. 10 and Fri., Dec. 11.
      The 5th and 7th grade band holiday concert featuring the combined Center and Glenwood 7th grade jazz ensemble will be held Thurs. Dec. 10.
      The 6th and 8th grade band holiday concert featuring the combined Center and Glenwood 8th grade jazz ensemble will be held Fri., Dec. 11.
      Both concerts begin at 7:00 p.m. at the Performing Arts Center. Admission/donations accepted at the door---Adults $3.00, Students $2.00, Senior Citizens and children under 10 free.
  Team Wendy Fundraiser  
  At Youngstown Shrine Club Sun., Dec 6:   November 12, 2015 Edition  
     A dear friend to so many, Wendy Gavalier, is battling pancreatic cancer. She underwent a surgical procedure in September which placed her into ICU for two months.
      We, ‘Team Wendy’, want to rally around her and show her how much her Youngstown family supports her. Wendy always gave her love, smile and time unconditionally, wherever she went and whenever someone was in need. Now is our time to return blessings back to her.
      On Sun., Dec. 6, Team Wendy will hold a Spaghetti Dinner Fundraiser, at the Youngstown Shrine Club, 1735 W. South Range Rd., North Lima, from 12 noon until 4:00 p.m.
      Tickets are $10 for adults, $5 for children ages 6 to 12, and free for children under 5 years. Advance tickets are available and supporters are welcome to dine in or carry-out. Tickets are also available at the door.
      If you wish to send goodwill messages to Wendy, placemats will be printed with 2”x 3” size messages, personal or business ads, for $20 per ad. Just send your message or ad, along with a check made payable to John Gavalier to: Team Wendy, c/o B&J Electric, PO Box 215, North Lima, OH 44452. Ads are due by Nov. 30.
      For more information, to drop off Chinese Auction items, to purchase tickets, or RSVP, call or stop by: B&J Electric, 10950 Woodworth Rd., North Lima, call Billie 330-717-0863; or The Boardman News, 8302 Southern Blvd., S2A, Boardman, call Gwen 330-507-4162.
      If you can not attend the dinner on Dec. 6 and wish to make a donation, please send check made payable to John Gavalier, and mail to Team Wendy, c/o B&J Electric, PO Box 215, North Lima, OH 44452.
      For online donations go to gofundme.com/Team Wendy.
      Be sure to visit ‘Team Wendy Spaghetti Dinner’ on Facebook.
      PICTURED: Wendy Gavalier rooting on O-H-I-O
  LEGAL NOTICE  
  November 5, 2015 Edition  
     The Boardman Township Zoning Commission will conduct a Public Hearing on the following amendments to the Boardman Township Zoning Resolution and Township Zoning Map on Thursday, November 19, 2015 at 5:30 P.M. in the Marie P. DeBartolo Meeting Room, Boardman Township Government Center, 8299 Market Street, Boardman, Ohio, 44512. Texts and map of the proposed changes may be viewed in the Zoning Office, same address, between the hours of 8:00 A.M. and 4:00 P.M. Monday through Friday, until the time of the Hearing.
      Following the recommendation of the Zoning Commission, the proposed amendments will be referred to the Board of Trustees for final determination.
      AMENDMENT A-2015-11
      Robert Pavlov, 132 Island Drive, Boardman, Ohio, 44512, property owner and agent on behalf of Donna Koziorynsky, 1150 Madonda Street, Boardman, Ohio, 44512, requests the rezoning of four (4) parcels located along the northeast corner of the Madonda Street – South Avenue intersection. The requested parcels are known as:
      • Parcel 29-021-0-193.00-0, part lot 1 of the Dalzell Plat, 0.50 acres in size, request to rezone from a Business zoning district to a Commercial zoning district in its entirety;
      • Parcel 29-021-0-192.00-0, part lot 1 of the Dalzell Plat, 0.50 acres in size, request to rezone from a Business zoning district to a Commercial zoning district in its entirety;
      • Parcel 29-021-0-191.00-0, 5009 South Avenue, 1.01 acres in size, request to rezone from a Business zoning district to a Commercial zoning district in its entirety; and
      • Parcel 29-021-0-195.00-0, 5001 South Avenue, 0.93 acres in size, currently a Business zoning district to a depth of 350’ from the centerline of South Avenue with the remainder zoned Residential R-2 zoning district, requested to rezone to a Commercial zoning district in its entirety.
      All parcels located in Boardman Township, Mahoning County, State of Ohio.
      Peter W. Lymber, Chairman
      Boardman Township Zoning Commission
      Sarah Gartland, Zoning Inspector
  LEGAL NOTICE  
  November 5, 2015 Edition  
     NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING
      The Boardman Township Board of Appeals shall hold a Public Hearing on Tuesday, November 17, 2015 at 7:00 P.M., at the Boardman Township Government Center, 8299 Market Street, Boardman Township, Ohio, 44512, for consideration of the following cases:
      APPEAL CASE AC-2015-26
      Mike Mayernik, 481 Champion Avenue East, Warren, Ohio, 44483, on behalf of the property owner, Eagle Developing Corporation, P.O. Box 1592, Hermitage, PA 16148, requests a variance from the terms of the Boardman Township Zoning Resolution, effective May 29, 2012, Article XII, Section D, Letter H, in order to construct a sign at 8051 Market Street, seeking a relief from the limitation of one sign per parcel. The property is further known as Lot 11 in the Karago Industrial Park Plat, Parcel Number 29-034-0-008.00-0. Said property is zoned Commercial for a depth of 100’, with the remainder zoned Industrial, in Boardman Township, Mahoning County, State of Ohio.
      APPEAL CASE AC-2015-27
      Ann and Rob Nischwitz, Ahara Enterprises, LLC, 4017 Canfield Road, Canfield, Ohio, 44406, on behalf of the owner, WP Realty, Inc., 940 Haverford Road, Bryn Mawr, Pennsylvania, 19101 requests a Conditional Use Permit in accordance with the terms of Article XVI Administration, Section I, Conditional Use Regulations, of the Boardman Township Zoning Resolution effective May 29, 2012, in order to operate a second-hand movies, music, and video games store, identified as a Conditional Use in Article XIX Land use Tables. Said use is proposed to occur at 339 Boardman Canfield Road, also known as Lot 273 in the Westward Ho Plat, Parcel 29-102-0-110.01-0. Said property is zoned Commercial in Boardman Township, Mahoning County, State of Ohio.
      APPEAL CASE AC-2015-28
      Scott C. Radcliff, AIA, Hasenstab Architects, 190 North Union St., Ste 400, Akron Ohio, 44304, applicant, on behalf of the property owner, Children’s Hospital Medical Center, One Perkins Square, Akron, Ohio 44308, requests a Conditional Use Permit in accordance with the terms of Article XVI Administration, Section I, Conditional Use Regulations, of the Boardman Township Zoning Resolution effective May 29, 2012, to allow for the expansion of the hospital “Building A”, identified as a Conditional Use in Article XIX Land use Tables. Said use is proposed to occur at 6505 Market Street, Akron Children’s Hospital, also known as Lot 1 of the Beeghley Medical Center Plat 1, Parcel Number 29-004-0-131.00-0, which is zoned Commercial and Residence R-1 in Boardman Township, Mahoning County, State of Ohio.
      Text and maps of the request may be viewed at the Boardman Township Zoning Office, 8299 Market Street, Boardman, Ohio, 44512, Monday through Friday, between the hours of 8:00 A.M. and 4:00 P.M. until time of the hearing.
      Atty. John Shultz, Chairman
      Boardman Township Board of Appeals
      Sarah Gartland, Zoning Inspector
  29th Annual Magic Of The Angels Christmas Event Nov. 21 At Mr. Anthony’s  
  November 5, 2015 Edition  
     The Magic of the Angels Christmas 29th annual holiday event, The Nutcracker will be held Sat., Nov. 21, opening at 6:00 p.m. at Mr. Anthony’s Famous Banquet Centre, 7440 South Ave.
      A gourmet dinner and dancing will include silent auctions of decorated trees, designer pieces, gift baskets, collector’s items ad dancing to the music of the Sensations.
      The event will also feature a special silent auction item to the famous Greenbrier Resort located amid the breathtaking mountains of West Virginia. The Greenbrier is a national historic landmark and world-class resort that has been welcoming guests from around the world since 1778. The natural mineral springs that drew the first guests over 235 years ago continue to lure visitors to the 10,000 acre luxury retreat. With a guest list that has included 26 of our country’s 44 presidents, The Greenbrier has long been a favorite destination of royalty, celebrities and business leaders.
      The Nutcracker celebration will benefit Easter Seals and Youngstown Hearing and Speech and will feature the Building Tomorrows program of intense therapy for children with disabilities.
      Tickets for the event cost $75 per person. Call 330-599-5500 for tickets or to make a donation.
      Grand raffle tickets for a $2,000 Holiday Shopping Spree compliments of Eastwood Mall Complex are now on sale at $10 each and can be purchased by calling 330-599-5568; or can be purchased from members of the Angels. The winner does not need to be present to win.
      A Children’s Magical Tree will be decorated during the evening with $25 ornament donations purchased by sponsors.
      Corporate sponsors for the annaul gala include---
      Silver Santas: Phyllis and Vincent Bacon, Kathy and Ron Carroll, Carolyn and Jim Leetch, Lynn and George Mitchell, Susan and Timothy Rupert, Dr. and Mrs. Keith Wilson, Compco Industries and Mr. and Mrs. Clarence Smith, and the Rotary Club of Boardman.
      Bronze Santas: Emily and Bill DeToro, Carol and Doug Lumsden, Lynn and Bob Sahli, Dominion East Ohio, The Cafaro Foundation, Jones Wealth Management/Merrill Lynch and Bassinger Auction Service.
      Pewter Santas: Denise DeBartolo York, Shelly LaBerto, Mary Lou Green, Frank and Norma J. Watson Foundation, V & V Appliance Parts, Inc., Easter Seals Board and Chick-fil-A of Boardman.
      The Angels will also hold their annual the Holiday Brunch and Sweet Shoppe on Dec. 9, at Mr. Anthony’s.
  Two Dead, One Alive After Heroin Overdoses  
  October 29, 2015 Edition  
     A 31-year-old man and a 52-year-old man are dead; and a 23-year-old man was revived during three suspected heroin overdoses in the township since Oct. 17.
      Last Thurs., Oct. 22, Boardman police were called to 4343 Chester Dr., apt. 1 near 10:30 p.m. Ptl. Phil Merlo said that during a 25-minute period, four doses of ‘narcan’ were given to 31-year-old Gregory Gisewhite “directly into his cartoid artery, with no results.” Gisewhite was declared dead at 10:52 p.m.
      On Sat., Oct. 24, at 8:45 p.m., police were called to an apartment at 3985 South Schenley Ave. where Boardman Fire EMS personnel said they found 52-year-old George Oracio, laying dead on the bathroom floor.
      On Sat., Oct. 17, about 1:00 p.m., 23-year-old David Michael Higham was found “unresponsive and not breathing” on the living room floor at 5008 Firnley Ave., while another man slept on a nearby couch.
      Ptl. Jamison Diglaw said that Higham was given narcan and regained consciousness.
      Gregory Gisewhite
      When Officer Merlo arrived on Chester Dr. last Saturday, he spoke with Erica N. Woods, Gisewhite’s 31-year-oldlive-in girlfriend, who was hysterical and extremely distraught.
      “Erica advised she and Gisewhite had ‘shot-up’ heroin together in the kitchen and she must have passed out,” Officer Merlo reported. Woods said the next thing she remembered was finding Gisewhite ‘unresponsive’ in a bedroom.
      Questioned by the policeman, Woods was unable to give any particular times when they ingested heroin, or when she woke-up afterwards.
      According to Gisewhite’s grandmother, Barbara Fairchild, of Cortland, upon first discovering Gisewhite’s body, Woods called her and the grandmother then told the girlfriend to call 9-1-1.
      Woods told police that Gisewhite purchased $50 worth of heroin sometime around 8:30 from a dealer she identified as ‘D’ about 8:30 p.m. and made the transaction in the parking lot of a Family Dollar store. Police seized Gisewhite’s cell phone, believed to contained ‘D’s’ phone number.
      “Woods said that ‘D’ is the black male who they have bought from in the past,” Officer Merlo reported.
      Police found cotton swabs and knotted baggie corners in a kitchen trash can, and with the assistance of Gisewhite’s grandmother, a capped syringe, burnt spoon and rolled-up napkin were found under a bedroom mattress.
      At 11:45 p.m., Gisewhite’s body was taken to the Mahoning County morgue.
      George Oracio
      According to Ptl. Jake Lape, when he entered Oracio’s apartment, he observed a burnt spoon containing heroin residue on a bathroom counter, and observed a hypodermic needle in the man’s left hand.
      His brother, who was at the apartment, told police that Oracio ‘was hepatitis-C’ and “would frequently use cocaine,” Officer Lape said.
      David Mitchell Higham
      Chad Estap, 23, of 5008 Firnley Ave., told Officer Diglaw that Higham had been living with him “temporarily,” and that Higham “had just returned to the apartment and passed out and fell to the floor.”
      “Arthur Young (29, also of 5008 Firnley Ave.) was asleep on the living room couch during the incident,” Officer Diglaw said, adding that Austin Reash, (18, of 5924 Friendship Ave.) was...asleep in the bedroom.”
      According to Officer Diglaw, Estep told police he does not tolerate drugs in his house and was unaware of Higham’s heroin use.
      Police spoke with Higham in the emergency room at St. Elizabeth Hospital in Boardman.
      “Higham admitted using heroin, claiming he was walking in an unknown location in Youngstown when he was approached (by a stranger) who offered him a free taste,” Officer Diglaw reported, adding “Higham admitted to being a heroin user, but stated he hadn’t used in a long time.”
      Comments: Email bnews@zoominternet.net
  Drug Detox Site Proposed Along Rt. 224  
  October 22, 2015 Edition  
      A zoning hearing has been set for Tues., Oct. 27 at 7:00 p.m. at the Boardman Township Government Center to consider a conditional use permit that if approved would allow for a drug addiction treatment center located along Boardman-Canfield Rd., near to several residential streets, including Harrington Ave., Mill Creek Blvd., Ron Joy Place and Pinewood Dr.; and across the street from East and West Parkside Drive.
      According to documents filed with the Boardman Zoning Department, the in-patient facility for addiction treatment would be located at 920 Boardman-Canfield Rd. and operated by New Day Recovery LLC that was formed in Aug., 2015.
      The permit is being sought by Felix Savon, owner of Savon Enterprises LLC, of 830 Boardman-Canfield Rd.; and Tom Ivany and Kim DiPillo, of New Day Recovery.
      In the documents submitted to the zoning office. Savon notes “We have an opioid crisis...that has dramatically changed the number of people needing immediate treatment. To meet that need, we want to open a 16-bed, sub-acute detox facility...We can save lives at a critical time in the recovery process.”
      Savon says the buildings the drug treatment center would occupy have been vacant for over a year.
      “When occupied, they will be supervised 24-hours-a-day and the clients will not be driving to and from the facility.”
      Savon suggests the New Day will provide detoxification services to addicts “in a warm, comfortable and upscale environment until the client is stabilized.” Additionally, outpatient services and educational programs will be provided.
      According to Savon, clients “will be provided with ‘medication’ to alleviate their discomfort and make them as comfortable as possible.”
      Additionally, Savon said, “After the removal of toxic drugs from the body, clients engage in New Day Recovery’s outpatient services in order to confront the underlying issues that contribute to addiction.”
      Savon and Tom Ivany are listed as owners of New Day Recovery, according to documents on file in the zoning office.
  More Than 30,000 Calls Every Year As Vanguard Of Public Safety: Vote Yes!  
  October 22, 2015 Edition  
     Voters will go to the polls on Tues., Nov. 3 to cast their ballot on a 3.85-mil renewal tax levy for the Boardman Police Department. The issue raises some $3.4 million a year, and funds are restricted solely for the use of the Boardman Police Department.
      Residents and business owners and operators in Boardman Township are especially fortunate to be served by the 60 officers of the Boardman Police Department, who serve a community of some 45,000 residents where, as the shopping center for the Mahoning Valley the daytime population swells to more than 100,000; and upwards to a quarter million people during the holiday shopping season.
      The Boardman Police Department is served by an excellent Narcotics Enforcement Unit (NEU), whose conviction rate on raids staged weekly is at virtually 100 per cent. As a side note, money seized from the dope dealers by the NEU is forfeited back to the police department and such funds have added additional financial support to our police department for use, for example, in purchasing police cruisers and equipment.
      The Boardman Police Department also provides a Juvenile Diversion Program, giving a chance to kids in trouble with the law to rehabilitate, before they enter the court system
      In the last four years, the Boardman Police Department has embarked on a daily school walk-though program at all Boardman public and parochial schools. The program provides a definite police presence in our schools and such a presence helps keeps kids and the schools safe when they are open. Additionally, two Boardman police officers, Sgt. C.F. Hillman Jr. and Ptl. Paul Poulos, work daily within the public school system, adding even more police presence in the schools.
      In October, the Boardman Police Department announced a new program, designed to help keep our senior citizens safe. The Care Call program provides computer generated telephone calls to senior citizens. If there is no answer to the ‘care calls,’ a police officer will be dispatched to insure a senior citizen enrolled in the program is safe. The program is provided free of charge to all residents of Boardman Township.
      We note however, in our opinion, more than 60 police officers are needed in Boardman, not only to insure public safety, but also to insure the safety of our officers, who are truly professionals!
      Annually, the Boardman Police Department answers more than 30,000 calls as the vanguard of public safety in the township.
      Given their professionalism and the wide variety of services provided by the relatively small numbers of employees in the Boardman Police Department, we recommend a YES VOTE on Nov. 3 FOR the 3.85-mil renewal levy for the Boardman Police Department. The measure calls for no new taxes.
  YSO Country Legends  
  Sat., Nov. 7 at 8pm:   October 22, 2015 Edition  
     Country comes to the city and the Edward W. Powers Auditorium on Sat., Nov. 7 at 8:00 p.m. when the Youngstown Symphony Orchestra and conductor Randall Craig Fleischer present Country Legends. Country Legends invites patrons attending the concert to come in their Western gear and take part in all the fun at this footstompin’, toe-tappin’ musical event.
      Country Legends is a musical tribute to some of the greatest names in country music starring Nashville-based singers Rachel Potter and Patrick Thomas. The program conceived by YSO’s Randall Craig Fleischer, highlights songs by famed singers and songwriters like Johnny Cash, Hank Williams, Kenny Rogers, Dolly Parton, Carrie Underwood and Faith Hill. Songs such as Crazy made famous by Patsy Cline, Thank God I’m a Country Boy from the John Denver songbook, Billy Ray Cyrus’ Achy Breaky Heart and Willie Nelson’s hits On The Road Again and Aways On My Mind are just a few of the more than twenty songs included in the playlist.
      Rachel Potter, a Nashville-based country music recording artist and songwriter, was a top twelve Finalist on the hit television reality show X Factor. In addition to her country music credits, Potter appeared on Broadway in The Addams Family and the recent revival of Evita. She also starred as Glinda in the National Tour of Wicked.
      Patrick Thomas, a native of Colleyville, Tex., is a Nashville-based recording artist and was a finalist on Season 1 Of The Voice. On Broadway, he performed in Anything Goes as Billy Crocker. Thomas stays busy writing music, touring as band leader for a number of recording artists and performing multiple times as week at the Boy Band Dueling Piano Bar in Nashville.
      Joining guest soloists will be local vocalists James McClellan, Janeen Williams and Cassandra Rondinella and a country band and full symphony orchestra. The orchestra’s opening pops concert, Country Legends, is sponsored in part by Home Savings Charitable Foundation.
      Concert attendees are invited to continue the evenings music-making at After Hours with the Jeff Bremer Group in the Overture lobby inside the DeYor Performing Arts Center following the concert for a selection of beverages and late-night snack.
      Tickets are now on sale for Country Legends at the DeYor Performing Arts Center box office at 330-744-0264 or online at www.youngstownsymphony.com.
     
  JS Interior Innovations Holds Ribbon Cutting At New Furniture Showroom  
  Boardman News Oct 15-21 Edition  
  October 19, 2015 Edition  
      The Youngstown-Warren Regional Chamber held a ribbon cutting at the recently opened JS Interior Innovations, the areas’ only locally owned & operated “contract (commercial) furniture showroom”
      Their parent company, Joseph Sylvester Construction Co., now entering its’ 60th year in business, has offered furniture lines for the past 10 years.
      Now, they are expanding with JS Interior Innovations, offering several more innovative furniture and product lines for “Creative Solutions for your Workspace”. Some of the new product lines include: Trendway, Bernhardt, Paoli, Workrite, Clarus GlassBoards, Special T, SnowSoundUSA and AllSeating.
      Kathy Sylvester, Co-Owner & CFO of JS Interior Innovations states, “As the environments and the way we work changes and evolves, we want to be able to offer adaptable products that evolve and change with us. We can now offer every type of furniture to include office, corporate interiors, retail, hospitality or medical furniture while still including items for that much needed “Home Office”. Our fine quality products range from high pressure laminates to wood, fabrics and leathers, cubicles to “floor to ceiling” walls, desks and storage systems, electric adjustable-height work tables, conference room tables, lounge & guest seating, acoustic sound panels, dry-erase glass boards, task lighting & more.
      In addition, the JS Interior Innovations team offers the service of design/build, consulting, installation & customization for your project.
      Showroom Hours of operation are currently by appointment only.
      For more information call 330.758.4277 or visit www.jsinteriorinnovations.com. The business office is located at 7087 West Blvd. Suite #10 in Boardman. JS Interior Innovations can be found on Facebook, Instagram, and Google Plus.
     
      Pictured: JS Interior Innovations is the only locally owned and operated ‘contract (commercial) furniture showroom’ in the area. Pictured, left to right, are members of the Sylvester family, Ann Sylvester, Kathy Sylvester, Joe Sylvester Jr. Joey Sylvester and JS Interior Innovations employee, Natalie Ray. Showroom hours of operation are currently by appointment only. For more information contact 330-758-4277 or visit jsinteriorinnovations.com.
     
     
  100th Birthday Celebration Raises Over $100,000 For Sister Jerome’s Poor  
  October 15, 2015 Edition  
     BY JOHN A. DARNELL JR.
      associate editor
      It was about six months early, but it didn’t matter as some 350 persons gathered on Sunday evening at the Georgetown in Boardman to pay tribute to Sister Jerome Corcoran on her 100th birthday.
      The birthday celebration also served as a fund-raiser for Sister Jerome’s Poor, which helps working poor families, and provides mentoring and financial assistance to enable inner city children to complete college or trade school.
      The event raised over $100,000, and brought accolades from around the state to Sister Jerome, who was a member of the first-ever co-ed class at Ursuline High School in 1934.
      Sister Jerome, who joined the Ursuline Sisterhood in 1935, has addressed the needs of children for over 70 years. She taught in parochial schools and Ursuline High School. For 15 years, she supervised education in the Diocese of Youngstown.
      In 1976, she began Millcreek Children’s Center which she directed for 36 years. In 1998 she, Sister Mary Dunn and Developing Potential, Inc. founded a charter school, Youngstown Community School. After leaving that post in 2012, at the age of 96, she founded Sister Jerome’s Poor.
      Last year, Sister Jerome’s Poor provided assistance to more than 400 working poor residents of Youngstown.
      Spry and chipper on the backside of 99-years-old, (she was born Apr. 21, 1916) Sister Jerome told those in attendance that retirement is not an option.
      “I still have a lot to do,” she said after receiving accolades from local, state and national political figures, as well as a Papal Blessing from Pope Francis.
      “Poverty begets poverty, and the only hope to escape it is a good education. I have found this to be true time and again in my decades as an educator and school administrator,” Sister Jerome said.
      Asked about the secret of her longevity, Sister Jerome replied “My parents each lived to be 98-years-old, and that’s a good start. Aside from that, I have no idea.”
     
      Pictured: photo/John A. Darnell jr.
       SISTER JEROME CORCORAN was all smiles as she received an autographed football from Youngstown State University president Jim Tressel on Sunday night during a 100th birthday celebration in her honor that was held at the Georgetown.
  Great Garage Doors Has Provided Great Service For More Than Three Decades  
  October 15, 2015 Edition  
      A local business recently faced a big problem. The business couldn’t open its garage doors to open for the day.
      It took only a telephone call to Sam Ciminero’s Great Garage Doors and within an hour the problem was corrected and the business opened.
      “We got a repair truck in the are and will be right there,” Ciminero told the business.
      It’s just that kind of service that has kept Great Garage Doors in business for the past 31 years.
      Sam and his wife, Sandy, opened their business out of a 3000 sq-ft warehouse on Hubbard Rd. By 1990 the business had grown by leaps and bounds and great Garage Doors moved into their 11,000 sq-ft showroom and warehouse on Andrews Ave. in Youngstown.
      “We have been really blessed to have an excellent staff with little turnover since,” Sam Ciminero said this week.
      His wife added “Everyone, from the office workers to the sales staff and installers works together to make us a well-rounded business.”
      When the company first opened, it consisted of Sam and his wife, and an installer. It now employs 14 people.
      “We take a lot of pride in being in business for more than three decades, and our philosophy of providing good service to our customers,” Sam notes. Providing accurate times when scheduling repairs and installations is a must, and all installers was equipped with radio-dispatched service vans.
      In addition to providing quick service calls, Great Garage Doors also provide quick installation service because of a large inventory in its warehouse, upwards of 500 steel doors in a variety of colors, and some 200 garage door openers. It is one of the largest garage door inventories between Cleveland and Pittsburgh.
      “Do-it-yourselfers can stop by on Andrews Ave., buy parts and take advantage of our in-house experts who provide advice and instruction,” Mrs. Ciminero says.
      Among the staff of Great Garage Doors are the Ciminero’s three children who have either worked or are working in different positions in the business.
      Looking back on more than three decades, Sam notes the experience has been vary gratifying.
      “We provide a great service that we stand behind. If we have a complaint, we correct it immediately,” he said.
  Larry Napolitan, 89, One Of Eight Living Members Of Greatest-Ever Indiana Hoosiers Grid Team, Will Be Honored  
  October 15, 2015 Edition  
      On Friday and Saturday, Oct. 16-17, Boardman resident Larry Napolitan, 89, of 7900 Walnut St., will be honored at Indiana University in Bloomington, Ind. as a member of the only team in Indiana Hoosier’s history to outright win the Big 10 football championship.
      With a record of 9-0-1, his 1945 team is also the only undefeated team in the history of Indiana football.
      The celebration will mark the 70th anniversary of that team’s victory. A banquet will be held on Friday honoring Napolitan and the other nine remaining, living members of the team. They will also be honored on the field before the homecoming football game on Saturday where the Hoosiers will host Rutgers.
      Napolitan graduated from Farrell High School, Farrell, Pa. in 1944 where he played football under Hank Day and assistant coach Tony Paulekas. He also was an outstanding wrestler, going undefeated in his senior year when placed first and was named junior champion at the tournament of the Allegheny Mountain Association in the 174-lb. class.
      Napolitan went on to Indiana University on a football scholarship. As a freshman that year he wore number 86 and played end, weighing just 170 pounds. The team was coached by Bo McMillan. Two players from that team went on to play professional ball--Pete Pihos, a football Hall of Fame inductee who played for the Philadelphia Eagles; and slugger Ted Kluszewski, who played baseball for the Cincinnati Reds.
      Napolitan later graduated from Youngs-town State University with an accounting degree and became a CPA. He worked as the CFO at Lake Park Tool and Machine for most of his career.
      He has been married for 66 years to the former Anita Pettola, originally from Sharon, Pa, and has three children---Mary Ann (Ed) Keifer, Nancy Napolitan and Larry (Shelly) Napolitan; as well as four grandchildren---Melanie (Carl) Angiuli, and Jacob, Emma and Ben Napolitan; and two great-grandchildren, Gisella and Marialena Angiuli.
      Among the highlights of that 1945 season were---
       •Sept. 28, 1945; Pete Pihos and Howard Brown return from World War II in time for the second game of the year at Northwestern. The Hoosiers tie the Wildcats, 7-7. Pihos was a lieutenant in the 35th Infantry Division, and Brown received three Purple Heart citations for his service in the European Theater of Operations. Neither had been discharged when the season began, but they were granted 60-day leaves by the Army and returned in time for the second game of the season against Northwestern
       •Nov. 24, 1945: “This is the greatest thrill of my life,” said Head Coach Bo McMillin after the Hoosiers defeated Purdue, 26-0, to clinch the Big Ten title and a 9-0-1 season.
       •Nov. 27, 1945: IU finished fourth in the Associated Press football poll behind Army, Navy and Alabama.
     
      Pictured: LARRY NAPOLITAN WORE #86 as a member of the greatest football team in the history of Indiana University. That 1945 team went 9-0-1 and captured the school’s one and only outright Big Ten football crown. Napolitan is one of eight living members of that team who will be honored this weekend in Bloomington when the Hoosiers face Rutgers.
     
  Rabbits: Euthanasia by Drowning? ‘Bag the sick/injured gerbils and bang them against the counter three times in order to ‘painlessly’ euthanize them’  
  October 8, 2015 Edition  
     Pictured: GRETTA WAS A GOLDEN RETRIEVER who greeted all people with a wag of her tail for 15 years when they visited The Boardman News. She died in 2012, and still let’s everyone know what’s going on with all her pet pals up in heaven, when she sends her ‘Gretta Knows’ column back to earth every few weeks or so. Where Gretta is now, she and all her pals enjoy a ‘pawsitive paradise’ everyday, and cruelty has no place. Their tails are always ‘awaggin.’ Gretta wanted everyone here to know what Elisa Keller and Gia DeAscentis say about a local pet store here in Boardman. “Dogs do speak, but only to those who listen.”
     
      EDITOR:
      My name is Gia DeAscentis, and I am writing this letter in order to raise awareness of what is going on behind closed doors at Harbor Pet Center, as well as to hopefully encourage proper action to be taken.
      For the past month, the Keller family and I have been privately conducting an investigation regarding Harbor Pet Center (formally known as Petland) in Boardman and it’s owner, Gary Winslow. Our investigation started as a result of not getting answers, or in our opinion, the truthful answers, in connection to the painful and untimely death of the Keller family’s 5-month-old puppy, Sophia, who was purchased at the store.
      In our campaign to inform the public of this devastating situation, we have had close to 150 individuals who have recounting personal horror stories regarding Harbor Pet Center.
      The stories included describing what it was like working for Mr. Winslow at his Boardman Petland/Harbor Pet location, as well as stories of puppies that were purchased at the store that have dropped dead, or have continued to live with debilitating illnesses for the rest of their lives. Unfortunately, we weren’t able to use any of their stories in our investigation because, coming only from us, they would be considered ‘second-hand’ account stories.
      After hearing all of these stories, we publicly urged individuals who had these first hand experiences to share them publicly, so they could be used as evidence in the investigation. To our surprise, not one person responded publicly. However, we only had a short time to feel discouraged as we started to receive private messages stating that Mr. Winslow requires all his employees to sign a confidentiality agreement, forbidding them to talk about what goes on in the store when they are employed and after they quit or are fired.
      I’m not sure if this is a standard requirement of Petland employment, but I feel that it’s a little distressing and definitely sets off a few alarms when a pet store makes you sign a confidentiality waiver forbidding employees to talk about what goes on behind closed doors. In my opinion, if anything, a pet store should take pride in what goes on behind closed doors. They should be urging their past and present employees to talk about the impeccable living conditions and first-rate care their animals are receiving before being sold to new homes, not trying to find a way to conceal everything and anything.
      Fortunately, we had more people come forward who wanted to help and provide more information than we could have ever imagined. Thanks to these brave individuals, voices are now being given to those who can’t speak for themselves.
      We also started uncovering rather appalling information relating to the owner of the local store. We started to slowly piece together information that we had collected as well as information that was volunteered from the public in order to reach some disturbing conclusions
      Gary Winslow and his wife Sharon Winslow had previously owned two Petland franchises, one in Akron, Oh. and one in Boardman, Oh. Gary and his wife opened the Boardman Petland franchise in 2002. From our understanding, Mr. Winslow’s Akron location in the Chapel Hill Mall was closed down in 2009 due to an employee (Liz Carlisle) being charged and convicted of two counts of animal cruelty (she took pictures of herself drowning rabbits in one of the back rooms). When asked why she drowned the rabbits at her sentencing, Carlisle claimed that the animals were injured and she was ordered by her supervisor to drown them. In my opinion, ‘euthanasia by drowning’ is not euthanasia, it is torture. It makes me wonder---‘How did those poor bunnies get so injured that they needed to be put down instead of being treated/seen by a veterinarian, or at least humanely euthanized by a veterinarian?”
      When confronted, Gary Winslow claimed the store “doesn’t make a practice of drowning animals.” However, according to one of our informants (who was a previous employee of Mr. Winslow’s Boardman location) inhumane ways of euthanizing a sick or injured small animal were typical. Our informant claimed she was ordered by supervisors to “bag the sick/injured gerbils and bang them against the counter three times” in order to ‘painlessly’ euthanize them. The informant refused to do this, and stormed out of the store. This happened less than two years ago, and she worked there for three hours, but says “it still haunts her to this day..
      Around the same time his Akron Petland franchise was forced to close and Mr. Winslow renamed the Boardman Petland franchise Harbor Pet Center. I have contacted Petland headquarters in Chillicothe, Oh. regarding this matter and am still waiting on an official statement concerning the name change of the local business from Petland’ to ‘Harbor Pet Center.’
      It is our opinion, as well as several others who have had to deal with Harbor Pet Center management, that Mr. Winslow has refused to return phone calls of people who have purchased sick dogs from the Harbor Pet Center. It is not just us! We have received several reports from individuals telling stories of Mr. Winslow being confronted with vet bills, vet reports, and even autopsy reports that confirm allegations of treatment/origin of the puppies at his store, and yet he still refuses to acknowledge the facts.
      It has been proven that most of these puppies come from Amish puppy mill farms and so-called ‘USDA approved’ breeders and kennels.
      For example, check this web site to see a typical example of a dog’s ‘breeder’ listed on the papers that Harbor Pet Center had gives the owners: http://nopetstorepuppies.com/dog-breeder/yoder-roman (This is an actual breeder from an actual dog purchased from Harbor Pet Center... even more disturbingly so, Harbor Pet Center sold the puppy to his new owners after this “breeder’s” USDA license was revoked.
      According to a handful of personal stories sent to us, Mr. Winslow has blamed these puppies’ new owners (some who have had them for less than 24 hours) that it is ‘their fault that the puppies are sick…,’ even when it is proven otherwise by licensed professionals.
      The following story is an example of one family’s experience---
      One family brought their puppy, Lily, back to Harbor Pet Center less than 24 hours after being purchased; desperately looking for answers as to why their puppy was acting so lethargic. According to the source, the manager took the frantic family into the back room to try and calm them down. The manager claimed a vet check wasn’t necessary, stating that the reason the puppy was so lethargic and shivering was because she was “probably cold.” Instead of taking or encouraging proper medical attention, the manager offered the family a free sweater. The family immediately left and went straight to [Dr. Tom] Crago, a credible local veterinarian. The vet soon determined that Lily’s lungs were 90% full of liquid, that was caused by double pneumonia. Not only were Lily’s lungs full of fluid, a rapid infection was rapidly spreading throughout her tiny body and quickly reaching her heart. The deadly infection was caused by the pneumonia and kennel cough, which is a complex and highly contagious respiratory infection in dogs.
      The veterinarian told the family that their precious puppy had less than a 50/50 chance of living. The family didn’t care what it would take, they were going to do whatever they could to save their puppy. After less than 24 hours of being with this family, Lily was already a family member. Countless vet trips and tons of medication left Lily no time to be a playful, curious puppy, she had to fight to stay alive. The family has been trying for years to get Harbor Pet Center and Gary Winslow to help with the vet bills. However, Mr. Winslow refused to help pay the vet bills, claiming “the puppy wasn’t sick when she was purchased.” In other words, in her less than 24 hours out of the store Lily was able to contract full blown double pneumonia, have her lungs almost completely fill with fluid, get kennel cough and almost die from a life-threatening blood infection?
      The family concluded their letter to us with:
      “Thankfully we are still blessed with Lily today, but it took a lot of determination and patience on our end to keep her alive. I hope everyone fighting this uphill battle can get this place shut down once and for all. No dog/cat/rabbit or whatever else deserves to live a short, unhealthy life, or die so suddenly.”
      People are paying, at times, an upwards of $3,000 for a dog in which they are guaranteed by contract is healthy and vet checked, when in reality can require an additional couple thousand dollars of vet care just to keep them alive. In some cases, Mr. Winslow has refused to reimburse people for their vet bills and refuses to give anyone their money back in the event their puppy should die (that’s right… “In the even their puppy should die…” because what healthy 5-month-old puppy drops dead?) Instead, he has offered store credit, or a ‘replacement puppy…’
      I feel that trying to compare a living, breathing family member to something, such as phone, that can be replaced is disgusting.
      We feel that the large number of dogs dying from multiple organ failure and congenital diseases that are purchased from Harbor Pet Center is no coincidence.
      It is in the public’s best interest to have this business exposed for what we feel it really is a money making scam with no regard for life. By raising awareness, we can hopefully try and spare any more families from going through the same anguish.
      Thank you so much for your time,
      Gia DeAscentis
     
  Cafe Augustine Grand Opening  
  October 8, 2015 Edition  
      Café Augustine and the Public Library of Youngstown and Mahoning County (PLYMC) announce the opening of Café Augustine, located in the Newport Library, 3730 Market St., Mon., Oct. 12. Opening ceremonies and a blessing of the Café by Monsignor Robert J Siffrin, V.G., begin at 10:00 a.m. and the event features free refreshments and family fun.
      Café Augustine is a four-month personal growth and work readiness program operated independently of the Library, but located in the café space in the Newport Library. Café Augustine aims to equip young adults age 18 through 24 with tools necessary to change their lives, in part by operating the cafe.
      “The Café utilizes 21st Century Success Principles curriculum, developed by the New Orleans Job Initiative. These address participants’ understand of workplace culture and are tailored for inner-city youth with little connection to the labor market. Life skills topics include making rational decisions, personal responsibility, personal/family finance, teamwork, dependability, ‘can-do’ consciousness, recognizing and defusing racism in the workplace, building relationships of trust, and more,” notes Reverend Edward Brienz, Café Augustine Executive Director.
      Students are mentored by restaurant staff at the café in five restaurant roles, stewards, floor service or wait staff, pantry chef, sous chef, and department chef.
      “Job placement is another role for the café, where students are offered a four-week paid internship at various local food-service providers who are incentivized and encouraged to retain the employees and to mentor them beyond entry-level employment,” says Rev. Brienz.
      Library Executive Director Heidi M. Daniel, says, “We’re very happy to have a café back in the Newport Library. We have been working with Father Brienz and the Café staff for the past several months and are pleased that the opening is just around the corner. We are excited to partner with Café Augustine on a program that helps young people fulfill their potential. We believe that what the Library offers in materials and services provide a similar opportunity, making this a wonderful partnership.”
      Agenda for the event to include: Remarks and blessing of the café by Monsignor Robert J. Siffrin, V.G., Vicar-General of the Catholic Diocese of Youngstown. Welcome messages from Café Augustine Executive Director Reverend Edward Brienz and Library Executive Director Heidi M. Daniel, Mayor John McNally, Ray “Boom Boom” Mancini, Janet Tarpley, Youngstown 6th Ward Councilwoman and Rose Carter, Executive Director, ACTION.
      Additionally, for the kids there will be a cotton candy machine and guest appearances by costumed characters Olaf and Elsa, SpongeBob Squarepants, and Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles.
      Café Augustine is providing free finger foods in the Newport Library Meeting Room at 10:00 a.m.
      At start-up, Café Augustine hours will be 11 a.m. to 2 p.m., Monday through Friday. The hope is to expand hours in the future.
      The café’s front-of-the-house manager is Abraham Covarrubias.
      The Café features a varied menu with many economically-priced items. “We want to be the place where everyone feels comfortable, with excellent food and great service,” notes Father Brienz, “a place where no one is left out because of pricing.”
      Additionally, anyone showing a Library Card from the Public Library of Youngstown and Mahoning County (PLYMC) can get a large cookie and a drink for just $1, another benefit of PLYMC’s “Show Me Your Card” campaign for Library Card sign-ups.
      Prospective students in this program, as well as family members of potential students, pastors, social workers, case managers and other interested parties, can call Father Edward Brienz at 234.354.4254 or email ebrienz@cafeaugustine.org.
  New Program Seeks To Ensure Health And Safety Of Senior Citizens  
  October 1, 2015 Edition  
     Family members of the elderly or disabled in Boardman Township can enjoy a new peace of mind about their relatives’ well-being thanks to a new free program that was announced by Boardman Trustees and Boardman police on Wednesday during a news conference at the Government Center.
      The township’s Care Call program, created by the Boardman Police Department with the support of Trustees Brad Calhoun, Tom Costello and Larry Moliterno, offers a way for the health and safety of seniors to be checked on daily basis.
      How The Program Works
      Once a Boardman resident is enrolled in the program, he or she will receive a computer-generated, automated phone call at their residence on days and times that they specify.
      A recorded message will ask if everything is okay. If it is, the enrollee simply punches a code number into their phone, and the call ends.
      If he or she does not answer the Care Call, a process begins to ensure that there is nothing wrong. After a second unsuccessful call, a designated emergency contact (one or more relatives or friends) is contacted and asked to check on the person who has been called.
      If an emergency contact can’t be reached or is unable to respond, Boardman Police Department personnel will be sent to the enrollee’s home on a welfare check and determine if the resident is okay, or in need of medical assistance. If medical assistance is needed, appropriate emergency personnel will immediately be notified.
      Enrolling In The Program
      Boardman residents may enroll in the Care Call program themselves, or a friend or relative may enroll them on their behalf. There are three ways to enroll:
       •Visit the Boardman Police Department website at www.boardmantwp.com/police. Residents can fill out an enrollment form electronically and return it by email.
       •Or they can download the form, then print it and fill it out and return it by fax, by mail or in person at the Police Department.
       •Request can be made for an enrollment form a printed form by mail, filled out and then returned by fax or mail.
       •The enrollment form can also be obtained in person at the Boardman Police Department, 8299 Market St., and submitted in person, by e-mail, or fax, or through the mail.
      Once the form has been received, it will be kept on file and used to set up regular Care Calls to the enrollee’s residence.
      More information about the Boardman’s Care Call program is available at www.boardmantwp.com/police, or by calling Andrea Young-Clark at the police department at (330) 729-2014.
  Drum Fest This Sat., Oct. 5  
  October 1, 2015 Edition  
     The Boardman High School Band Program will present its 3rd annual Drum Night Mon., Oct. 5 at 7:00 p.m. in the school gymnasium Drumlines from Boardman, as well as Youngstown State University, Campbell Memorial, Champion, Springfield, Lowellville, Poland and Howland will participate. Admission is $2/person and senior citizens are free of charge It can get loud in the BHS Gymnasium so a pair of foam ear plugs might be a good thing to bring!
  Ohio YMCA’s Youth In Government Program Offered At Area YMCA’s  
  September 24, 2015 Edition  
     The Central YMCA in Youngstown and the Davis Family YMCA in Boardman, is now offering a fun way for youth to learn about the government.
      The Ohio YMCA’s Youth in Government program enhances development of the American democratic process for young people through participatory training in the theory and practice of the Ohio state government.
      Youth in the program learn about the legislative process, how to write and research bills, and how to participate in elections. Their work culminates in youth serving as delegates at their state conference, debating bills on the floor of the legislature. Some have actually made bills into laws!
      The YIG program seeks to build, encourage and strengthen life assets and character traits that will help teens become involved and responsible adults. All YIG activities are designed with the following goals in mind: Providing leadership training and preparation to meet the needs of a democratic society: Stimulating interest and awareness of US and state government’s function; Creating opportunities for civic engagement and awareness of prominent social issues; Developing self-confidence and self-expression while fostering tolerance and understanding of others’ point of view; and Cultivating the application of moral and ethical valuing processes to public policy making This program is for individuals ages 12-18. Contact our Youth & Teen Directors at either YMCA location to learn more!
      Register online for the Youth in Government program at Davis, or sign up at the Service Desk or contact the:
      Central YMCA: Joselyn Parker, jparker@youngstownymca.org or 330-742-4790. Days and times to be announced.
      Davis Family YMCA: Nikki Murray, nmurray@youngstownymca.org or 330-480-5656 x 218. Begins Sept. 25 from 7-8 p.m. (meets 2nd & 4th Friday of each month).
  Ten Will Be Inducted Into Boardman High School Hall Of Fame  
  September 24, 2015 Edition  
     Kevin El-Hayek (1997)-Wrestling
      Graduating from Boardman High School in 1997 as a valedictorian and wrestling academic All-American, Kevin El-Hayek was, and continues to be, the model of a true scholar-athlete. A four-year standout, Kevin racked up 97 wins, 11th all-time in the school’s wrestling history. He was the team co-captain as a junior and senior, as well as Eastern Ohio Wrestling League, sectional, and district champion both years, going on to the state meet each time, placing fifth overall there. He was inducted into the EOWL Hall of Fame in 2008.
      Continuing his academic and wrestling endeavors, Kevin attended Harvard University as a pre-med student and four-year wrestling team member, named co-captain his senior year and All- Ivy League as both a junior and senior, graduating cum laude in 2002.
      While attending medical school at Case-Western Reserve University, he volunteered as a graduate assistant coach for their wrestling team. After earning his MD degree at CWRU, Kevin did his internship and residency in surgery at the Cleveland Clinic, where he is still a consultant and assistant professor, currently working at their Abu Dhabi branch in the United Arab Emirates, along with his wife, Raecel and two daughters, Keira (6) and Alison (4).
      George Evans (2000)-Track
      George Evans began the 21st century by graduating in 2000 with unsurpassed accomplishments in track and field. Selected All-Steel Valley Conference, all-district, and all-state, Evans placed sixth in the state meet in Dayton in the 100m dash, holding the record in that event until 2013. He was also selected for the Midwest Meet of Champions-Team Ohio prior to graduation. Evans was a key member of the team that also won the SVC and district titles.
      An outstanding football player as well, he started at wide receiver for a Spartans team that advanced to the state quarterfinals. He was also chosen to play in the Mahoning Valley Coaches Association All-Star game.
      An excellent student, Evans enrolled at Lehigh University where he earned seven varsity letters in football (3) and track (4), and was named All-Patriot League four times. He holds several track records there and earned conference titles in both sports. In 2004, he won the Patriot LeagueSportsmanship Award and was named Lehigh’s Most Outstanding Athlete in track and field.
      Since graduation, he has entered the collegiate coaching profession. Previously the head track coach at Marietta College and an assistant at Brown; he is currently the sprints/hurdles coach for men’s and women’s track & field at Yale University.
      Celeste Hlebovy (2000)-Basketball
      Celeste Hlebovy continued the tradition of excellence for the Boardman High School women’s basketball program under legendary head coach Ron Moschella into the 21st century.
      A four-year starter, All-Steel Valley Conference first team, and All-Northeast Ohio selection as well, Hlebovy was a dominating player. She was named NEO Player of the Year as a junior and senior, and was selected first team All-Ohio those same years. She capped off her senior year being named Ohio Player of the Year by the Ohio High School Basketball Coaches Association and played in the All-Ohio North/South All-Star game. She finished her prep career with 1,692 points and 838 rebounds.
      Receiving a Division I athletic scholarship to Indiana State University, Hlebovy went on to make the Missouri Valley Conference All-Freshman Team and All-Academic Team as well. After earning her degree in 2004, she worked toward her MBA at Maryville University, graduating in 2013. She is currently working as a project manager for Lockton Companies in St. Louis, Missouri.
      Jonah Karzmer (1999)-Golf
      One of Boardman High’s all-time greatest golfers, Jonah Karzmer continues to serve as an ambassador for the sport.
      At BHS, Jonah was a three-time All-SVC selection, including being named conference MVP once. Karzmer also earned first team All-Ohio and National High School Coaches of America First Team All-American honors (placing seventh at the national finals). He was also a two-time Junior State Champion at the Independent Insurance and Callaway Junior World tournaments and First Team All-American at the Nike Winternational Junior Series in Pinehurst, North Carolina.
      Karzmer entered Kent State University and as a freshman earned his varsity letter on their Mid-American Conference and NCAA championship team. After transferring to Youngstown State, he became two-time captain of the men’s golf team there and a first team All-Horizon League selection.
      In 2001, he qualified for the U.S. Amateur Championships. Since his graduation in 2004, Karzmer has won eight local club championships, and in 2013 became the Greatest Golfer of the Valley champion.
      He is currently co-owner of the Karzmer Insurance Agency, as well as being part of the “Greatest Golfer of the Valley” committee. Additionally, he served as pro instructor at Tee Up Golf in 2010. He lives in Poland with his wife Beth Ann and daughter Stella.
      Larry Lencyk (1999)-Soccer
      A three-year letterman on the boys soccer team in the late 1990’s, Larry Lencyk played at a level that was nothing short of phenomenal, especially as a junior and senior. As a junior he scored 26 goals on a 10-6-2 SVC Championship team and was named All-SVC and All-District first team. As a senior, he scored 32 goals on a 17-2-1 team that won the District Championship. He was chosen All-SVC, All-District, and All-State first team, playing in the Senior All-Star
      Game.
      Suzy (Thompson) Maddock (1996)-Track
      Suzy Thompson served as the epitome of a team leader who lifted those around her to achieve their best and the team’s success. As a four-year runner at Boardman in both cross country and track and field, she ran the 100m dash, 200m dash, 400m dash, and both the 800m and 1600m relays. She set a school record in the 400m dash as a sophomore and captured the district championship in that event. As a junior, she was All-SVC in the 200m, 400m, and both relays, as well as district champ in the 1600m relay. Her senior year, she was the All-SVC champion in the 400m and 800m relays and was given the team’s Leadership & Pride Award. She was an outstanding student and four-year member of the Spartan Marching Band, Symphonic Band, Jazz Band and Symphony Orchestra. She received a full track and field scholarship to Youngstown State University, where she helped set a 1997 outdoor 4x200m relay record and went on to complete her bachelor of science in physics and astronomy with honors in 2001. She has since gone on to receive her Master of Science in Aerospace Engineering in 2005 from the University of Kansas. She is currently working as a senior systems engineer at the NASA Langley Research Center in Virginia, were she resides with her husband, Robert Maddock and sons Jacob (8) and Tyler (6) and daughter Hannah (11 mos.).
      Brian Mihok (1995)-Football
      An All-SVC and All-State lineman for the Spartan football team in the early 1990’s, Brian Mihok was a two-way player who was named to an all-opponent team by the then-conference-rival Warren Harding team. He was also a National Honor Society member whose other football honors included SVC Player of the Week, WYTV Student-Athlete of the Week, and Offensive MVP by the members of his own team. He also received the Black Watch Award for consistent excellence on defense as well.
      Mihok went on to play college football at Westminster, where he continued to excel as a student-athlete, making All-PAC two years. Graduating magna cum laude in 1999 with a 3.89 GPA, he was given several scholar-athlete awards, including the Woody Hayes National Scholar Athlete and the first NCAA post-graduate scholarship from Westminster College.
      He was a two-time GTE Academic All-American and was nominated by the National Football Foundation Hall of Fame as a National Scholar-Athlete.
      In 2005, Brian earned his D.O. degree from Des Moines University and currently is in private practice as a board-certified ophthalmologist serving also as the residency Program Director for Grandview Hospital in Centerville, Oh., where he lives with his wife, Mikki (BHS 1995) and daughters Mikayla and Bella.
      Tom Pipoly (1986)-Football
      One of the greatest all-around Spartan athletes of the 1980’s, Tom Pipoly earned ten varsity letters during his high school sports career – three in football, three in basketball, and four in baseball. Tom was the Spartans starting quarterback as a sophomore and junior, switching to tailback as a senior. All the while, he was playing both ways as a defensive back, which earned him All-SVC honors in 1985. He was also a two-year All-SVC selection in baseball, named SVC Pitcher of the Year in 1986.
      Enrolling at Baldwin-Wallace College after graduation, Pipoly played four years of football there, earning All-OAC honors as a defensive back in 1988 and 1989 when he was also named pre-season All-American. He continued his baseball career at Baldwin-Wallace as a starting pitcher for three seasons.
      At present, Pipoly is living in Medina, Oh. and is working for Genentech USA, a bio-medical company covering northeast Ohio. He is married to Kimberlee and they have three sons, Zach (17), Cade (15) and Shane (13).
      Matt Sammon (2000)-Baseball
      Collecting eight varsity letters in his athletic career at Boardman, Matt Sammon stood out in baseball as an all-time greats. He was named All-SVC at shortstop all four years, the last three as a first-team pick. Chosen as the team captain his senior year, Sammon was also named All-State honorable mention. Upon graduation in 2000 he held numerous baseball records, including the career hits record that still stands today.
      Sammon also starred as Boardman High’s quaterback and free safety as a a junior and senior, and was an All-SVC selection both years. He was selected All-NEO first team and All-State special mention as a senior, as well as serving as team captain. With a starting role at point guard in basketball for two years, including the SVC championship team of 1998, he remains the only BHS athlete to start on three Steel valley Conference championship teams in the same year. Due to his success on and off the field, Sammon was selected for the prestigious George Brownlee Award and Scholarship upon graduation.
      Attending Bowling Green State University, he earned his bachelor’s degree in Supply Chain Management with a minor in Statistics in 2005. He is currently working on his masters degree at Washington University in St. Louis, Mo. where he and his wife Anne are expecting their second daughter to join them and Lexi (2) very soon. He is the Director of Planning for Nooter/Eriksen, a St. Louis engineering firm that operates in the energy sector
      Rob Theis (1968)-Contributor
      One of the greatest individual bowlers in
      Greater Youngstown history, Rob Theis has continued the family tradition as co-owner and manager of Boardman Lanes on Market Street. As such, with the advent of bowling as a state-sanctioned and governed interscholastic sport for both girls and boys, Theis has generously facilitated the Boardman bowling teams during the years they have been competing, as the teams’ practice site and ‘home court,’
      Theis’s prowess as a bowler was evident in his youth and continued throughout his adulthood, including numerous championships and sanctioned 300 games. He has been inducted into both the Youngstown Men’s Bowling Association Hall of Fame and the Curbstone Coaches Hall of Fame for his achievements.
      A 1968 Boardman High School graduate, Theis earned his degree from Bliss Business College in Columbus in 1972. He and his wife, Karen reside in Boardman and have a son Billy living here, and a daughter Holly living in Maryland.
  Seeking The Office of Trustee, A Candidate Spins A Yarn About A Fish Hook That Got Caught In His Brother’s Ear  
  September 24, 2015 Edition  
     Current Boardman Local School Board members Fred Davis and Mark Fulks will not seek re-election in November, so there will be two new members on that board come next January.
      The three candidates seeking those two seats addressed a Boardman Civic Association forum on Monday night held at the Lariccia Family Community Center in Boardman Park.
      One candidate said he wanted to continue his civic duty. Another candidate urged the 95 people in attendance to vote for all of the tax levies that will be on the ballot. And a third candidate said he always wanted to serve the community.
      Jeff Barone, 805 Park Harbour Dr., is a past president of the Boardman Band and Orchestra Parents, as well as the Boardman Tennis and Swim Club, and played a lead role in a police levy campaign four years ago.
      Barone, Donald Riccitelli and Frank Zetts are the candidates seeking the two seats on the Board of Education.
      Barone is a 1983 graduate of Boardman High School and his two children also graduated from the school.
      After working as a financial advisor with the B.J. Alan Co. for a decade, Barone is now a financial advisor with Morgan Stanley.
      Barone decried the loss of funding suffered by public schools in Ohio through a system that channels public dollars to private charter schools.
      “I will work to try and resolve this issue,” Barone said, noting he is on the ballot “to continue his civic duty.”
      Riccitelli, 416 Green Garden Dr., a car salesman, told the forum he comes from a strong background in fund-raising. He said he has two children in Boardman elementary schools, his wife is a special education teacher with Boardman Local Schools, and he is a paid, assistant varsity girls basketball coach for the Lady Spartans.
      Addressing the forum after no less than information on six tax issues was presented, Riccitelli told the forum “Rather than vote for me, I would encourage you, your friends and neighbors to vote for all these levies.”
      Zetts, 617 Forestridge Dr., said he moved to Boardman in 1989 and has found the township ‘a great place to live.’
      “I always wanted to serve the community...we need to prepare students for life,” Zetts said.
      All three candidates were asked for their views on consolidating the school district.
      Zetts and Riccitelli were quick to note they favored consolidation, while Barone observed he favored placing all fifth and sixth grade students in one school, and all seventh and eighth grade students in another school.
      The school board candidates were also asked for their position on open enrollment, currently not a policy in the Boardman Local Schools. All three candidates said they opposed open enrollment.
      Of note, candidate Barone provided the public with a telephone number, 330-720-1234, in the event anyone would wish to speak with him about his candidacy.
      Boardman Trustee
      Three candidates, including the incumbent, will be on the November ballot running for one seat on the three-member Township Board of Trustees. Only two persons showed-up at the Civic Association forum, incumbent Larry Moliterno, 427 Gardenview Dr., and challenger Jim Villani, 4866 Brookwwod Dr.
      Moliterno is seeking his third term on the board and said he loves Boardman Township.
      He said he first ran to help restore confidence in local government, noting “We now have a full team, we have come together and work to make sure the quality of life is maintained.”
      Moliterno noted he and fellow Trustees Thomas Costello and Brad Calhoun, and Fiscal Officer William Leicht have restored manpower at the police department, despite a loss of some $3 million in state subsidies.
      He said important future considerations
  LEGAL NOTICE  
  September 24, 2015 Edition  
     Legal Notice
      Boardman Schools Saves Money
      Through its “Retire/Rehire” Program
      As part of the current negotiated agreements between the Boardman Board of Education and its unions (the Ohio Association of Public School Employees Chapter #334 and the Boardman Education Association) an employee may retire from the Boardman Local School District and be immediately rehired for less pay and benefits. There are substantial savings to the Board of Education for each employee who elects to participate in this opportunity. The Boardman Local School District has saved over $4,000,000 since instituting this program over ten years ago. At this time, employees wishing to participate in this option can retire and be re-employed for the next calendar year.
      The employee(s) listed below have indicated their intent to take part in this option for the next calendar year. This action will occur at the December 21, 2015 Board of Education Meeting.
      Jody Stepan,
      Administrative Assistant to the Superintendent.
      Any citizen interested in hearing more details about this provision in the negotiated agreement or wishing to speak before the Board of Education regarding this matter may do so at the November Board of Education meeting. This public meeting will be held at 7:00 p.m. on Monday, November 23, 2015 at Robinwood Lane Elementary School.
     
  LEGAL NOTICE  
  September 24, 2015 Edition  
     Full Time Laborer
      BOARDMAN TOWNSHIP
      ROAD DEPARTMENT
      The Boardman Township Trustees are seeking applicants to fill the position of Full Time Laborer in the Road Department. Applicants must possess high school diploma or the equivalent and knowledge of maintenance work; valid state driver’s license; (a valid CDL class A or B license); Equipment and Job Location: The job requires the use of various tools and equipment, including but not limited to; Two and one half ton dump truck, one ton dump truck, pickup trucks, mowers, weed trimmers, and power tools for use in minor maintenance. The work site encompasses the 25 square mile radius of Boardman Township. Workers may be frequently exposed to cold, wet, and/or hot humid conditions. Interested applicants should seek on line application at boardmantwp.com or stop into the Boardman Township Road Department Building at 8299 Market Street, Boardman, Ohio to complete an application Monday through Friday between the hours of 8:00 am and 3:30 pm. No late applications will be accepted. Equal Opportunity Employer. Deadline: Wednesday, September 30, 2015 @ 3:30 pm.
      William D. Leicht
      Fiscal Officer
     
  LEGAL NOTICE  
  September 24, 2015 Edition  
     NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING
      The Boardman Township Board of Appeals shall hold a Public Hearing on Tuesday, October 6, 2015 at 7:00 P.M., at the Boardman Township Government Center, 8299 Market Street, Boardman Township, Ohio, 44512, for consideration of the following cases:
      APPEAL CASE AC-2015-18
      John E Mcconnell, KD Construction and Remodeling LLC, 2944 Youngstown Hubbard Road, Youngstown, Ohio 44505, on behalf of the property owner, Rex Moyer, 6020 Sheridan Road, Youngstown, Ohio 44514, requests a variance from the terms of the Boardman Township Zoning Resolution effective May 29, 2012, Article V Residence R-1 Districts, Section B Yard Area and Height Provisions, in order to construct a breezeway addition on the residence located at 6050 Sheridan Road. The applicant seeks a reduction of 5’ from the required 40’ rear setback for a total setback of 35’ and a reduction of 4 inches from the required 8’ side yard setback for a total setback of 7’ 8”. The property is also known as Lot 224 in the South Park Heights Plat, Parcel Number 30-26-0-169.00-0. Said property is zoned Residence R-1 in Boardman Township, Mahoning County, State of Ohio.
      APPEAL CASE AC-2015-19
      Carla Clark, BIZNET Signs, 1156 W. Western Reserve Road, Youngstown, Ohio 44514, property owner, requests a variance from the terms of Article XII, Section H, Letter F, of the Boardman Township Zoning Resolution effective May 29, 2012, in order to construct a billboard sign which is 49’ in height, seeking relief from the maximum allowed height of 25’ above grade. The proposal is for property located along the south right-of-way of Mathews Road approximately 580’ east of the Mathews Road – South Avenue intersection, also known as Parcel Number 29-020-0-304.00-0. Said property is zoned Commercial in Boardman Township, Mahoning County, State of Ohio.
      APPEAL CASE AC-2015-20
      Scott C. Radcliff, AIA, Hasenstab Architects, 190 North Union St., Ste 400, Akron Ohio, 44304, applicant, on behalf of the property owner, HMHP Childrens Inc., One Perkins Square, Akron, Ohio 44308, requests a Conditional Use Permit in accordance with the terms of Article XVI Administration, Section I, Conditional Use Regulations, of the Boardman Township Zoning Resolution effective May 29, 2012, to allow for the expansion of the hospital “Building A”, and to allow on-site parking in an area zoned Residence R-1, both uses identified as a Conditional Use in Article XIX Land use Tables. Said use is proposed to occur at 6505 Market Street, Akron Children’s Hospital, also known as Lot 1 of the Beeghley Medical Center Plat 1, Parcel Number 29-004-0-131.00-0, which is zoned Commercial and Residence R-1 in Boardman Township, Mahoning County, State of Ohio.
      Text and maps of the request may be viewed at the Boardman Township Zoning Office, 8299 Market Street, Boardman, Ohio, 44512, Monday through Friday, between the hours of 8:00 A.M. and 4:00 P.M. until time of the hearing.
      Atty. John Shultz, Chairman
      Boardman Township Board of Appeals
      Sarah Gartland, Zoning Inspector
     
  PUBLIC NOTICE  
  September 17, 2015 Edition  
     PUBLIC NOTICE
      BOARDMAN TOWNSIiIP TRUSTEES, MAHONINP COUNTY, OHIO
      RESOLUTION #15-08-24-16
      RESOLUTION AMENDING BOARDMAN TOWNSHIP PARKING DISTRICT
      The Board of Trustees of Boardman Township, Mahoning County, Ohio met in Regular Session at the Boardman Township Government Center on the 24th day of August, 2015, with the following members present: Thomas P. Costello, Brad Calhoun, Larry Molitemo.
      Moved Mr. Larry Moliterno, to approve and adopt Resolution #15–08-24-16 as follows:
      WHEREAS, Ohio Revised Code §505.17 authorizes the Board of Township Trustees to make regulations and orders as are necessary to control all vehicle parking,in the unincorporated areas of the Townsbip; and
      WHEREAS, on June 23,1993, the Board of Township Trustees of Boardman Township, Mahoning County, Ohio, adopted non-criminal parking infractions and fines pursuant to Section 505.17 of the Revised Code and Chapter 4521 of the Ohio Revised Code to control vehicle parking within the unincorporated areas of the Township; and
      WHEREAS, on July 1, 2015, the Board of Township Trustees adopted Resolution #15-07-01-10 regulating parking on grass portions of residential property and codified a violation of this resolution as “Code 1.20 Parking on grass of residential lot” to become an addition to the Resolution enacted on, by the Board of Township Trustees on June 23, 1993; and
      WHEREAS, it is the desire of the Board of Township Trustees to make additions to the Boardman Township Parking District to include regulating parking on grass portions of residential property as detailed in Resolution #15-07-01-10 and adopted by the Board of Township Trustees on July 1, 2015: and
      WHEREAS, it is also the desire ofthe Board of Township Trustees to make amendments to the Boardman Township Parking District and to amend Section 2.0 Impoundments/Immobilizations; Section 6.0 Violations; Penalties, Fines; Section 8.0 Hearing Examiner; and Section 9.0 Ohio Fire Code Amended.
      NOW, THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED by the Board of Township Trustees of Boardman Township, Mahoning County, Ohio, that the Boardman Township Parking District shall be amended to include Section 1.20 Parking on the grass of residential lot and amendments to Sections 2.0, 6.0,8.0, and 9.0 and shall read as follows:
      BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, that pursuant to Ohio Revised Code Section 4521.04, Boardman Township requested and obtained authorization on May 4, 1993, from Mahoning County Area #2, Judge Robert Lisotto, and the Mahoning County Clerk of Courts, Anthony Vivo, to establish a parking violations bureau. The Township Parking Violation Bureau was established on June 23, 1993. The Violations Bureau shall handle all parking infractions in violation of this resolution occurring within the unincorporated area of Boardman Township.
      1.01 Handicapped Parking Violation
      No person shall stop, park, or leave standing any vehicle, whether attended or unattended, at any
      time, in any handicapped space designated as such in violation of Ohio Revised Code 4511.69(E)-(H), the language of which is incorporated herein by reference.
      No person shall stop, park or leave standing any vehicle, whether attended or unattended at any
      time, under the following conditions: The language of which the following violations is designated in violation of Ohio Revised Code Sections 4511.66, 4511.68, 4511.681, 4511.69 and 4513.10 and Boardman Township Resolution #15-07-01-10 passed on July 1,2015.
      1.02 In a designated fire lane
      1.03 On a·sidewalk.
      1.04 Blocking a driveway
      1.05 Within an intersection
      1.06 Within 10’ of a fire hydrant
      1. 07 On a crosswalk
      1. 07A Within 20’ of a crosswalk
      1.08 Within 30’ofa traffic control device
      1.09 Within 50’ of a railroad crossing
      1.10 Where prohibited by a no parking sign
      1.11 On the street when 4” of snow or more has fallen
      1.12 No lights after dark
      1.13 Alongside any vehicle stopped or parked at the curb
      1.14 Upon a bridge or overpass
      1.15 Parked as to obstruct traffic
      1.16 Parking on posted private property without owners consent
      1.17 Parking on private property in violation of any posted condition or regulation of the
      owner of the property
      1.18 Facing traffic
      1.19 In excess of 12” from a curb
      1.20 Parking on grass of residential lot
      2.0 Impoundments/Immobilization
      Vehicles found standing or parked in violation of this resolution may be impounded or immobilized pursuant to 4521.02(B) of the Ohio Revised Code. In order to obtain release of an impounded or immobilized vehicle; the owner of the vehicle is required to post bond and pay all costs of impoundment not to exceed the limits stated in 4521.02(B) of the Ohio Revised Code.
      3.0 Parking Ticket
      The Boardman Police Department Parking Violation shall be used as the parking ticket issued
      under this resolution. The procedure for issuing parking tickets shall be governed by Ohio Revised Code Chapter 4521, which is incorporated herein.
      4.0 Registered Owner Prima Facie Liable for unlawful parking
      In any hearing on a charge of illegally parking a motor vehicle, testimony that a vehicle bearing a certain license plate was found unlawfully parked as prohibited by the provisions of this Traffic Code, and further testimony that the record of the Ohio Registrar of Motor Vehicles shows that the license plate was issued to the defendant, shall be prima facie evidence that the vehicle was unlawfully parked, and was so parked by the defendant. A certified registration copy, showing such fact, from the Registrar shall be proof of such ownership.
      5.0 Answering Parking Ticket
      A person who is issued a parking ticket under this resolution shall answer the parking ticket within ten days of receipt thereof.
      6.0 Violations, Penalties, Fines
      The fines or penalties applicable to parking infraction violations shall be the following: The fine
      for a violation of 1.01 (Handicapped Parking Violation) will be $250.00. The fine for all other violations will be $25.00. Failure to pay the appropriate fine within 10 days of the date of
      issuance will result in the fine cost being doubled.
      7.0 Violations Clerk
      The clerical staff of the Boardman Police Department Record Room shall serve as ticket bureau violation clerks.
      8.0 Healing Examiner
      A hearing examiner shall be appointed by the Boardman Township Trustees.
      9.0 Ohio Fire Code Amended
      Section 1301:7-7-05, 503.2.1, 503.3, 503.4, 507.5.4, 507.5.5 of the Ohio Fire Code is hereby amended to read as follows: Where a fire lane shall be deemed necessary by the Boardman Township Fire Department, a minimum of a 20 ft. fire lane and tow away zone shall be established by the property owners around the subject stucture and a 15 ft. clearance shall be in effect at all private hydrants and fire department connections.
      This section shall be enforced by the Boardman Township Police and Fire Departments.
      BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED. that Boardman Township established a Parking Violations Bureau pursuant to Ohio Revised Code Chapter 4521. Violations of this Resolution shall not be considered criminal offenses and shall be handled pursuant to Chapter 4521 of the Revised Code.
      Fines levied and collected under this section shall be paid into the Township General Revenue Fund.
      BE IT FURTIffiR RESOLVED, pursuant to Ohio Revised Code §505.17(B)(1), thls Resolution established by the Board of Trustees shall be posted by the Township Fiscal Officer in five conspicuous public places in the Township for thirty days before becoming effective, and shall be published in a newspaper of general circulation in the Township for three consecutive weeks.
      By Order of the Boardman Township Trustees:
      Thomas P. Costello, Trustee
      Brad Calhoun, Trustee
      Larry Moliterno, Trustee
      William D. Leicht, Fiscal Officer
  26-Year-Old Woman Found Dead In Room At Wagon Wheel  
  September 10, 2015 Edition  
     Boardman police are investigating the death of a 28-year-old New Hampshire woman whose naked, lifeless body was found on Labor Day in a room at the Wagon Wheel Motel, 7015 Market St.
      Dead is 27-year-old Meagan Vittum, of Plymouth, New Hampshire. Police are awaiting the results of toxicology tests in an effort to determine if a drug overdose caused the woman’s death.
      Vittum had her driver’s license suspended in New Hampshire two years ago, and on Apr. 24, 2015 she was arrested in Pt. Charlotte, Fla. on a battery charge.
      It is unknown how the woman came to Ohio.
      Det. Greg Stepuk told The Boardman News that Vittum checked into a room at the Wagon Wheel on Fri., Sept. 4 in the company of a 45-year-old man named Steve Shaffer.
      Richard Dzuray, manager of the Wagon Wheel, told police he received a telephone call from a man who identified himself as ‘Steve’ on Sept. 7, shortly before 10:00 a.m. Dzuray said the caller asked him to go and check on his girlfriend “because he could not reach her for the past couple of days.”
      Dzuray said he went to Vittum’s room and found her dead, laying on her back and covered with a white sheet that was pulled up to her shoulders.
      Dzuray told Boardman police when Vittum checked into the motel, ‘Steve’ was with her.
      Dzuray said the last time he saw Vittum with ‘Steve’ was on Sept. 5 around 10:30 a.m. when she and the man needed assistance after locking themselves out of their room.
      Dzuray told police the last time he saw ‘Steve’ was about 12:30 p.m. on Sept. 5 when the man “walked away” from the motel room.
      The death is the third at the motel this year. On Apr. 6 Chris Ocasio, 21, and Cassandra West, 19, were found dead by hanging in a room they had rented at the Wagon Wheel.
  LEGAL NOTICE  
  September 10, 2015 Edition  
     NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING
      The Boardman Township Board of Appeals shall hold a Public Hearing on Tuesday, September 22, 2015 at 7:00 P.M., at the Boardman Township Government Center, 8299 Market Street, Boardman Township, Ohio, 44512, for consideration of the following cases:
      APPEAL CASE AC-2015-17
      Matt Crnarich, 120 Renee Drive, Struthers, Ohio, 44471, on behalf of the property owner, Rich Brent, 6085 Tam-O-Shanter Drive, Boardman Ohio 44512, requests a variance from the terms of the Boardman Township Zoning Resolution effective May 29, 2012, Article V Residence R-1 Districts, Section B Rear Yard Setbacks, in order to construct an addition to the residence located at 6085 Tam-O-Shanter Drive. The applicant proposes an 8’ reduction from the required 40’ setback for a total rear yard setback of 32’. The property is also known as Lot 53 in the Country Club Estates, Parcel Number 31-025-0-257.00-0. Said property is zoned Residential R-1 in Boardman Township, Mahoning County, State of Ohio.
      Text and maps of the request may be viewed at the Boardman Township Zoning Office, 8299 Market Street, Boardman, Ohio, 44512, Monday through Friday, between the hours of 8:00 A.M. and 4:00 P.M. until time of the hearing.
      Atty. John Shultz, Chairman
      Boardman Township Board of Appeals
      Sarah Gartland, Zoning Inspector
  Boardman Band Night Sept. 12  
  September 10, 2015 Edition  
     The Boardman Spartan Marching Band and the Boardman Band and Orchestra Parents, Inc. will host Boardman Band Night ’15 on Sat., Sept. 12 at 7:00 p.m. at Boardman Stadium on the high school campus.
      Participating high school bands include Struthers, Springfield, West Branch, Lowellville, Niles, Canfield, Howland, and the Boardman Spartan Marching Band. Admission at the gates is $5/adults and $3/students. Senior citizens are admitted free to all Boardman Band events. Gates open at 6:00 p.m.
      This year’s Band Night includes its traditional ‘run-on’ and “Fanfare for the Common Man.” The opening marching drill is set to Carole King’s 1974 hit “Jazzman” complete with an alto saxophone solo.
      The ‘features’ portion of the program will begin with the Spartan Silks spinning their flags while the band plays “Shout It Out Loud” and “Rock and Roll All Night” by rock super-group Kiss. Spartan Sweethearts and Twirler next take the spotlight on a vocal version of current smash hit by Walk The Moon, “Shut Up and Dance with Me.”
      The Spartan Marching band’s tradition of themed closing routines continues with music from the movie “Pitch Perfect.” The field and band will be transformed into a dance club with a deejay rig and turntables.
      Boardman Director of Bands Thomas M. Ruggieri says, “The movie features so much great music from the past and present that everyone should recognize at least a few of the songs even if they never saw the movie.”
      Ruggieri says he enjoys enlisting and working with parent volunteers to build intricate props to complement the theme.
      “This year I had them build the deejay rig with switches, motors, and lights that respond to the live sound of the band. Building props is another way to invite parents behind the scenes and get more of them involved in their children’s education,” says Ruggieri, noting “The visual elements of Boardman’s show always add to the excitement and emotion.”
      The Boardman Spartan Marching Band is under the direction of Ruggieri, Timothy P. Tuite, Steven Chambers, and Michael Shevock. Also on staff are Tom Porter, Kristi Guveiyian, Janet Gbur and Becca Platt who instruct the Sweethearts, Silks, and Twirler.
      Band Night ’15 will be the sixth performance of the Spartan Marching band since the season opened with Howland Band Night on Aug. 18.
      The big trip for this school year will take place in December as the Spartan Marching Band travels to Florida for a Disney World march. Also scheduled during the trip is a Jazz Ensemble 1 performance in Downtown Disney.
  Centennial Celebration  
  Sister Jerome Honored:   September 10, 2015 Edition  
     Sister Jerome Corcoran, founder of Sister Jerome’s Poor, Millcreek Children’s Center and the Youngstown Community School, will be honored at 5:30 p.m. on Sun., Oct. 11 at The Georgetown Banquet Center, 5945 South Ave., at a Centennial Celebration of her life and work.
      Sister Jerome’s 100th birthday will be in Apr., 2016.
      All proceeds from the celebration will benefit Sister Jerome’s Poor, a tax-exempt, nonprofit organization that provides mentoring, financial aid and support to inner-city youth and families.
      Sister Jerome has addressed the needs of Mahoning Valley children for more than 70 years. She earned a doctorate from Case Western Reserve University in 1952 and supervised education in the Diocese of Youngstown for 15 years.
      In 1976, she founded Millcreek Children’s Center, which she directed 36 years.
      In 1998, Sister Jerome, Sister Mary Dunn and Developing Potential Inc. and founded a charter school, Youngstown Community School. She led both schools until 2012.
      At the age of 96, Sister Jerome established Sister Jerome’s Poor under the auspices of the Ursuline Sisters. Her mission is to help working poor families in emergencies and help 12 inner-city college students graduate and obtain good jobs. Her program’s success rate among college students is 84 per cent, and in the last year, Sister Jerome’s Poor has helped more than 400 working poor residents of Youngstown.
      The centennial dinner is $45 per person. For reservations, call Sister Jerome’s Poor at 330-792-7636. All reservations and contributions are due by Sept. 30. Benefactors and special gifts will be recognized in the Tribute Book, which will soon go to press. For more information regarding the Tribute Book, contact Bernadette at 330-792-6033.
      Honorary co-chairpersons of the Centennial Celebration are Clarence and Rosemarie Smith, Dr. and Mrs. John C. York, Rev. Morris Lee, Jim and Ellen Tressel, Harry Meshel, Dr. George Beelen, Phil Dennison, Christine Dennison, Patricia Syak, Dee Crawford, and Lou Zona.
      General co-chairpersons are James Pazol, Mark Munroe, Tony Mancino and Donna Bricker.
      Sister Jerome’s Poor operates from The Ursuline Center, 4280 Shields Rd., Canfield, (330-792-7636).
      In addition to Sister Jerome, the Advisory Committee for Sister Jerome’s Poor includes Donna Bricker, James Colella, Sister Nancy Dawson, Sister Mary Dunn, Charles T. George, Joseph T. Joseph, Tony Mancino, Sister Mary McCormick, Mark E. Munroe, James L. Pazol, Gerald A. Peskin, Clarence R. Smith, Gere Weller, and Joan Yanchick.
  Hospice Of The Valley Golf Classic Sept.14  
  August 20, 2015 Edition  
      The 2nd Tippecanoe Golf Classic, will be held on Mon., Sept. 14, at Tippecanoe Country Club; all proceeds from the event will benefit Hospice of the Valley.
      The donation of $125 per person includes 18 holes of golf, lunch, dinner and prizes. Registration, driving range and lunch start at 11:00 a.m., with the Scramble and Shot Gun Start at noon.
      Cocktails begin at 5:00 p.m. with a buffet dinner to follow. Anyone wishing to attend just the dinner and festivities can do so for $40.
      There are Sponsorship opportunities available as well as Hole sponsors. Auction items are most welcome.
      Honorary Chair for the event is Dr. Edward Novosel. Bob Ferraro, member and past president of Tippecanoe Country Club, is the event chair along with Committee Members, Liz McGarry, Leslie Coalmer, Nancy Sullivan, Louann Sutton-Kutlick, Paula Durkin and Andy Zabel.
      For a Hole in One #9 2015 Cadillac ATS from Columbiana-Buick- Cadillac-Chevrolet, Pete Brittain and a Hole in One #5 is a $10,000 Shopping Spree at Adamas Jewelry and Gifts, Judy & Monica Rafoth.
      Hospice of the Valley offers compassionate end of life care to those with a terminal illness as well as support to the family.
      For information about the Tippecanoe Golf Classic or the services Hospice of the Valley can offer, please call 330-788-1992 or email Liz_McGarry@mercy.com. Visit at www.hospiceofthevalley.com
  Sports Trivia Championship Oct. 22 At The Lake Club  
  Benefits Potential Development :   August 20, 2015 Edition  
      Everyone who knows and loves the Mahoning Valley knows and loves sports. They’ve been a part of our local identity as long as the cookie table! We are thrilled to announce an innovative event that blends philanthropy, sports trivia knowledge and fun.
      Benefiting Potential Development Schools for Students with Autism, the first annual Mahoning Valley Sports Trivia Championship will be held Oct. 22, from 6:00 to 10:00 p.m., at The Lake Club, 1140 Paulin Rd., Poland. Get in the sports mindset with your favorite pub food and open bar.
      We can assure you that it will be unlike any charitable event you’ve ever attended. With a grand prize of $10,000 and celebrity guests, it is sure to be your new favorite night of the year!
      As Autism Spectrum Disorder grows more and more prevalent every year, the needs of children with Autism in our area continue to expand along with it. Today, 1 in 68 children will be diagnosed on the Autism spectrum. All of the money raised will go directly to Potential Development to help provide the individualized education, support and resources area children diagnosed with Autism need to lead a productive life.
      Event chair is Deloran Muransky, owner of ivory & birch in Boardman. Title sponsor is Michael J. Simon of Simco Management Corp. Master of Ceremonies is Bob Hannon, Executive Director of the Youngstown and Mahoning Valley United Way and Ed Muransky, The Muransky Companies. Presented in honor and memory of Esther and Morris Simon by their son, Michael J. Simon.
      Sign your team up! Limited to only 36 teams! First come first served basis! Sponsorships are available. For more information visit http://www.mvsportstriviachampionship.com/
  Canfield Republican Women’s Club 50th Anniversary Celebration Oct. 15  
  August 20, 2015 Edition  
     The Canfield Republican Women’s Club will hold a 50th Anniversary Celebration dinner with special guests on Thurs., Oct. 15 at Avion on the Water, 2177 West Western Reserve Rd., Canfield. Cocktails at 5:30 p.m., dinner at 6:30 p.m.
      The CRWC are celebrating 50 years of supporting qualified Republicans in Ohio with a special dinner and panel discussion with Congressman Bill Johnson; Justice Sharon L. Kennedy; State Representative Timothy Ginter; Mahoning County Auditor, Ralph Meachum and 7th District Court Judge Mary DeGenaro.
      Master of ceremonies, David Johnson, will be conducting a panel discuss at 7:30 p.m., with questions from the audience about the past, present and future of our Republican Party.
      There will be a special anniversary presentation by Mark Munroe along with displays of our history.
      Tickets are $35 per person. To purchase tickets call 330-531-0120 or email crwcmail@gmail.com.
  November Elections Will Herald Two New Faces On Local School Board  
  August 20, 2015 Edition  
     When voters go to the polls on Tues., Nov. 2, they will elect two new members to the five-member Boardman Board of Education. Current members Mark Fulks and Fred Davis will not seek re-election to the board.
      On the ballot for the two seats are three candidates---Jeff Barone, of 805 Park Harbour Dr.; Frank Zetts, of 617 Forestridge Dr.; and Donald Riccitelli, of 416 Green Garden Dr.
      Barone is employed as a financial advisor with Morgan Stanley and is a lifelong Boardman resident. He is past president of the Boardman Civic Association and the Boardman Tennis and Swim Club. He was also very active in Boardman Band and Orchestra Parents and served as co-chair of the last Boardman Local Schools levy committee, as well as the Boardman police levy.
      Zetts ran for the school board two years ago, during which he made a dismal appearance at a candidate’s forum sponsored by the Civic Association.
      Riccitelli is a car salesman and is a member of the Boardman Local Schools Fund for Educational Excellence board of directors.
      Three candidates, including the incumbent, Larry Moliterno, will be on the ballot for one seat on the three-member Boardman Township Board of Trustees.
      Moliterno, of 427 Gardenview Dr., is seeking his third term on the Board of Trustees, where he has served three times as board president. Moliterno has teamed with fellow trustees Thomas Costello and Brad Calhoun to restore manpower at the Boardman Police Department, and has served as a capable spokesperson and representative of township government.
      He will be opposed by Green Party member Jim Villani, of 4866 Brookwood Rd., who says he is “committed to the 3 R’s of Environmental Stewardship: Reuse, Restore, Recycle.”
      Among Villani’s platforms in seeking the office of township trustee is a pledge to support “student, teacher and parent alliances.”
      According to the Mahoning County Auditor’s Office, Mr. Villani is some $5,145 delinquent in his annual property tax payments, and hasn’t made a payment on the debt this year.
      Also on the ballot for trustee will be Anthony DeFrank, of 7021 Glenwood Ave., also known on Facebook as ‘Tony Danger.’ who is listed as 18th precinct Boardman committeeman for the Mahoning County Democratic Party.
      Running unopposed for his seat as Boardman Township Fiscal Officer is William D. Leicht, CPA, of 8550 Ivy Hill Dr.
      There will be four issues of local note on the November ballot, including two tax levies for the Boardman Local School, a tax levy for the Boardman Police Department and a tax issue for Boardman Park. All of those tax issues are renewal levies.
      Boardman Local Schools seek renewals of a 5.9-mil levy and a 6-mil levy. Those levies bring in a total of some $7.188 million annually to the school district.
      Boardman Local Schools operate on a general fund budget of some $43 million a year and have faced declining enrollment and loss of state subsidies for more than a decade, in addition to a recent declining tax base.
      The Boardman Police Department levy issue seeks renewal of a 3.85-mil levy that raises about $3.5 million annually of the police department’s $7 million annual budget.
      Boardman Park will seek renewal of a 6/10-mil levy that generates $541,725 per year, and represents 45 per cent of the park’s annual income.
     
  LEGAL NOTICE  
  August 13, 2015 Edition  
     The Board of Trustees of Boardman Township will conduct a Public Hearing on the following amendment to the Boardman Township Zoning Resolution and Township Zoning Map on Monday, August 24, 2015 at 5:15 P.M. in the Marie P. DeBartolo Meeting Room, Boardman Township Government Center, 8299 Market Street, Boardman, Ohio, 44512. Texts and map of the proposed changes may be viewed in the Zoning Office, same address, between the hours of 8:00 A.M. and 4:00 P.M. Monday through Friday, until the time of the Hearing.
      This is the final hearing in determination of this case. The Board shall either act immediately or within twenty (20) days from the date of this hearing.
      AMENDMENT A-2015-10
      Pursuant to Article XVI, Section F, Part a, Number 1 of the Boardman Township Zoning Resolution, as amended through May 29, 2012, concerning the initiation of amendments to the Township Zoning Resolution, the Board of Trustees of Boardman Township find it necessary to initiate hearings to amend the Boardman Township Zoning Resolution and Township Zoning Map to reclassify and rezone the following parcels of real property from a Residence R-2 District to a Residence R-1 District as stated below:
      Forty-four (44) Parcels along Terrace Drive between Southern Boulevard and Market Street
      Thirty-nine (39) Parcels along Homestead Drive between Southern Boulevard and Market Street
      Brad Calhoun, Chair
      Board of Trustees, Boardman Township
      Sarah Gartland, Zoning Inspector
  Sigle Lane Area Residents Want To Preserve Their Single Family Home Neighborhood  
  And Oppose Construction Four-Plexes Units:   August 13, 2015 Edition  
     Attempting to prevent construction of three, four-plex dwelling units at the entrance of their neighborhood, homeowners and residents of a development of single family homes in the Sigle Lane-Walker Mill Rd. area, in the southwestern portion of Boardman Township, took the unusual position of appealing a decision of Boardman Township Zoning Inspector Sarah Gartland who had already denied a permit to build the four-plex units.
      The single-family home neighborhood was developed about 50 years ago.
      142 persons who reside in the neighborhood and who signed a petition opposing the four-plex units, don’t want the four-plexes built at the entrance to their neighborhood, claiming such construction would eventually reduce the value of single family homes, as has already happened in several areas of Boardman Township.
      40 years ago, builders would claim four-plex residences as well as apartment complexes would provide a ‘buffer’ between retail and commercial developments, and single-family neighborhoods. Those claims, four decades later, have not been substantiated, many opposed to the four-plexes say.
      David Kosec, a managing member of 1985 LLC, had filed for a zoning permit to construct the buildings on May 22.
      A little more than two weeks later, Ms. Gartland denied the request, saying Kosec’s application did not meet requirements of Site Plan Review, including landscaping and storm water management, and did not contain an approved site plan, as required by Boardman Township zoning regulations.
      Kosec hired counsel to appeal that decision to the township’s Zoning Board of Appeals, that heard the case on July 31.
      The Zoning Board of Appeals not only affirmed Ms. Gartland’s denial, but also strengthened that decision, ordering Gartland to issue an “amended denial,” saying Kosec’s application was not timely and the 1985 LLC had “acquired no vested right.”
      “By denying the [zoning] application based solely upon the failure to provide a site plan, the Zoning Inspector’s decision ignored...critical factual and legal realities,” Atty. Bryan Ritter argued in behalf of homeowners and residents at the Zoning Board of Appeals hearing.
      “Mahoning County building regulations require an approved zoning permit before a building permit can be issued. At the time of its application, 1985 LLC could not have applied for a building permit, let alone commenced the construction process. Accordingly, there was no legal or factual basis for 1985 LLC to claim it has acquired a vested right to build the...non-conforming structures proposed it its...application,” Atty. Ridder said.
      Counsel for the builder, Atty. Stuart Strasfeld, argued the application filed by 1985 LLC was “complete and compliant with...the Boardman Township Zoning Resolution which is applicable to residential R-2 districts in which our client’s property is located.”
      He noted “When we applied, we fully complied with the law. Our application was improperly denied.”
      The hearing before Boardman Township’s Zoning Board of Appeals drew a standing room only crowd at the Government Center.
      William Chipps, of 8077 Sigle Lane, told the Zoning Board of Appeals he lives directly across the street from the site of the proposed four-plex units.
      “We don’t want multi dwellings,” Chipps said.
      Anne Vacca, of 7943 Sigle Lane, asked members of the appeal board, “How would you feel if this was your neighborhood?
      “Please take our feelings into consideration.”
      Another resident, Nancy Skopic, of 1481 Tamarisk Trail, said she raised two kids as a widow in a safe, friendly neighborhood.
      “If you grant this [permit], people will leave,” she observed.
      Elaine Fisher, of 7983 Sigle Lane, said she loves the neighborhood “the way it is.”
      Bill Pellin, of 7988 Sigle Lane told the appeals board, “If these apartments are built, the neighborhood will go downhill.”
      Following comments from counsel and residents, the Zoning Board of Appeals voted unanimously to “amend” Ms. Gartland’s denial of the proposed dwellings, as Atty. John Shultz, chairman of the board noted “This is quite a technical issue. The board also voted unanimously to deny Strasfeld’s request to allow the zoning permit.
      Following the hearing Strasfeld has 30 days to appeal the decision(s) to a civil court.
      Prior to the Zoning Board of Appeals ruling on the proposed four-plex development, Boardman Trustees met to consider rezoning the property from R-2, that would permit apartments, to R-1, that allows only single family homes.
      The measure was unanimously approved.
      “We want to make sure we have done everything we could to to protect the integrity of this neighborhood,” Brad Calhoun, chairman of the Boardman Township Board of Trustees said.
     
  Two Officers Added To Ranks Of The Boardman Police Department  
  August 6, 2015 Edition  
     Meeting last week, Boardman Trustees added two, new officers to the police department. Hired were Earl J. Neff Jr., 24, of Boardman; and Nicholas C. Brent, 37, of Austintown.
      The new hires will replace two officers who have retired, Ptl. Michael Longo and Ptl. Jack Neapolitan.
      Neff graduated from Poland Seminary High School in 2009. He served in the United States Army Reserves from Feb., 2010 to Apr., 2014 when he was honorably discharged. He earned his Ohio Police Officer Training Academy (OPOTA)certificate in May, 2014. Neff was employed part-time, since Sept., 2014 as a patrol officer for the Poland Village Police Department.
      Brent graduated from Berea High School in 1996. He completed Ohio Peace Officer Basic Training at The Kent State University, and obtained his OPOTA certification in Mar., 2011. He was employed full-time as a lieutenant with the Goshen Police District. He started as a reserve officer with Goshen in Feb., 2012, was promoted to part-time in Oct., 2012 and was promoted to a full-time position in May, 2013. While with the Goshen PD, Brent was assigned as a detective and School Resource Officer with the West Branch School District.
      With the addition of Neff and Brent, manpower at the Boardman Police Department is 58 full-time officers.
      PICTURE: TWO POLICE OFFICERS RECEIVED their oaths of office last week from Boardman Township Fiscal Officer William Leight. Pictured, from left, Trustee Brad Calhoun, Officer Earl Neff, Fiscal Officer Leicht, Officer Nicholas Brent, Trustee Tom Costello, Trustee Larry Moliterno.
  LEGAL NOTICE  
  August 6, 2015 Edition  
     NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING
      The Boardman Township Board of Appeals shall hold a Public Hearing on Tuesday, August 18, 2015 at 7:00 P.M., at the Boardman Township Government Center, 8299 Market Street, Boardman Township, Ohio, 44512, for consideration of the following cases:
      APPEAL CASE AC-2015-15
      John Schinker, North American Contractors, 250 South Schenley Avenue, Youngstown, Ohio 44509, applicant on behalf Joan Basta, 4018 Dover Road, Boardman, Ohio, 44512, property owner, requests a variance from the terms of Boardman Township Zoning Resolution as amended through May 29, 2012, Article V – Residence R-1 Districts, in order to construct a covered patio with a side yard setback of 4’, seeking a 1’ reduction from the required 5’ side yard setback. The covered patio is proposed to be constructed at 4018 Dover Road, further known as Lot 21 of the Lake Newport Plat 1, Parcel Number 29-073-0-034.00-0. Said property is zoned Residence R-1 in Boardman Township, Mahoning County, State of Ohio.
      Text and maps of the request may be viewed at the Boardman Township Zoning Office, 8299 Market Street, Boardman, Ohio, 44512, Monday through Friday, between the hours of 8:00 A.M. and 4:00 P.M. until time of the hearing.
      Atty John Shultz, Chairman
      Boardman Township Board of Appeals
      Sarah Gartland, Zoning Inspector
  MOVING SALE  
  681 Forestridge, Boardman:   August 6, 2015 Edition  
     August 14, 15, 16 from 9am to 4pm
      Inside Rain or Shine
      Appliances, Furniture, Collectables, Home Decor, Toys, Games & MUCH MORE!
  YARD SALE  
  121 Roche Way, Boardman:   August 6, 2015 Edition  
     AUGUST 14, 15 from 9am to 4pm
      Lawn & Garden, Patio Furniture, Camping Equipment, gas grill, painting tools & sprayer, tools, ladder, Pressure Washer & MISC!
  Former Center Middle Teacher Gets 75 Days In Jail After Pleading Guilty To Sexual Battery  
  by BY JOHN A. DARNELL JR. associate editor   July 30, 2015 Edition  
      Facing a maximum penalty of more than 25 years in jail for date rape, sexual assaults on three women, former Center Middle School teacher and athletic coach, 54-year-old Jay Dana, escaped with a 75-day sentence last week in the Mahoning County Common Pleas Court of Judge Maureen Sweeney.
      One of two of Dana’s victims who addressed the court during his sentencing hearing told Judge Sweeney if she had known that Dana would ‘only get 75 days,’ she doubted she would have come forward.
      More than 3000 days ago, at the age of 42, Christine Smith told police she went on a date with Dana on Sept. 10, 2006.
      “I was given a drink by him, which at some point, caused me to black out,” Smith said last Wednesday at Dana’s sentencing hearing.
      She said she awakened at some pint to Dana telling her to “get up, get up, we have to get you home.”
      “I was aware at this point of Mr. Dana running around yelling ‘what have I done, what have I done,’” the woman told the court.
      She said she passed out and awakened several times, adding she felt relief when laying on her side, he began to throw up.
      She said that she passed out again, only to be awakened by the smell and sound of Dana cleaning the carpet of her vomit, “spraying cleaner and using a scrub brush.”
      Smith said that Dana then suggested that she go and take a shower, but she said she was unable to do so, “because I couldn’t even stand up.”
      At this point, the woman said she recalled that Dana took her by the arm to the bathroom, where she fell to the floor and passed out again.
      “My next recollection is of him standing over me...holding my pants above me, telling me ‘to put these on, put these on.’ And, I am laying there thinking, ‘why are they off?’”
      Smith told the court that Dana kept telling her that he had to take her home.
      “I was still unable to open my eyes, or walk. I started crawling like a dog towards his voice to get out of the house,” Smith recalled.
      She said once in Dana’s car, she still could not open her eyes.
      “On the drive home, he kept telling me to button my shirt...I didn’t have the coordination to do that,” Smith said.
      As she told Boardman police on Sept. 13, 2006, Smith told the court once she arrived at her home, Dana ‘plops me on a chair on my back porch...and runs to his car and leaves.”
      She said “once the effect began to wear off, I checked on my son, who was sleeping, and went to bed.”
      She said when she awoke, “I realized I had no underwear on, and my tampon was missing.”
      She said that she called Dana and asked the man if they had been intimate, and he said they had.
      “When I stated that I didn’t remember, he laughed and said he had to get ready for school and needed to hang up.”
      She recalled about ten minutes later, Dana called her back and said he wasn’t ready for a relationship and wished her good luck.
      “I spent the remainder of that day violently ill, unable to go to work,” Smith said.
      She said a doctor told her it would be too late for a blood test, and an OB/GYN then prescribed her medication “twelve times stronger that normal medicine.
      “I missed several more days of work because of the effects of the medication,” Smith told the court.
      Additionally, when word got out that she had been raped, her 13-year-old son became traumatized and was hauled into a school office and told he could not come back to school until he was evaluated.
      As she spoke at the sentencing hearing, Smith told the court “My thoughts go back to he could have killed me that night...To this day I can’t stop thinking that I could have been killed.”
      She told the court in Jan., 2011 she learned that Dana’s wife, Michelle had died, “asphyxiated in her own vomit after playing a drinking game with Jay.
      “My first thought was that could have been me.”
      Smith said she learned in 2013 her case had been reopened and she began to live in fear, “thinking Mr. Dana would want revenge.”
      She said Dana’s three victims were informed of the plea bargain deal on June 12 and would get 75 days in jail and be a registered sex offender for the rest of his life.
      “We were asked if this was enough of a sentence, and we stated ‘absolutely not.”
      “Three women and a jail sentence of next to nothing...I endured far more than 75 days of trauma,” Smith said, adding “Being classified as a sex offender for the rest of his life brings no satisfaction that he is not going to do this again.”
      She said that Dana “demonstrated a total disrespect for the law. He is a criminal and should be recognized as such,” Smith told the court, adding “I put shame, embarrassment and humility aside...to make sure this would not happen to anyone.”
      A second victim, Marie Brickley, also addressed the court.
      She said that Dana gave her one glass of wine.
      “I woke up the next morning alone, naked and vomiting violently...I couldn’t function for the next three days.”
      She said she spent months “with my doors locked, always looking over my shoulder in complete fear.
      “This took the life out of me...I felt violated...I feel for his deceased wife, who doesn’t have a voice.
      “It changed the way I live my life everyday.
      “Your honor, I hope your sentence will recognize the pain and suffering he has caused.”
      Dana’s chief counsel, J. Gerald Ingram who was in court with is stablemate, Atty. Desirae DiPiero, noted Dana served three years in the U.S. Air Force, held a masters degree and served for some 30 years as a teacher.
      Dana abruptly left his teaching job in May, 2011, before the school year ended, following a meeting with Police Chief Jack Nichols and Supt. Frank Lazzeri.
      That meeting was held after local police received a report that Dana had shown-up, unannounced, at the residence of one of his victims, Ms. Smith.
      Ingram reminded the court the plea agreement was a joint recommendation, approved by defense counsel and the Mahoning County Prosecutor’s Office.
      “A joint recommendation for a plea bargain sentence was reached after careful consideration of the facts, and the risks to both the prosecution and the defense,” Ingram said.
      In addition to the paltry jail time, and sex offender status, Judge Sweeney ordered Dana to pay a $5000 fine on two counts of sexual battery and one count of attempted sexual battery.
      “I am sorry...I never meant to harm anyone, as God as my witness,” Dana said in his only remarks to the court, before he was led away in handcuffs to begin serving his jail time.
     
      * * * * * * * * * *
      Jay Dana’s wife, Michelle, died on Christmas Day, 2010. Her lifeless body was discovered in the Columbiana home she shared with her husband. Jay Dana told authorities he and his wife had been playing a drinking game the evening prior to her death, after the couple had returned home from a Christmas Eve party with Michelle’s family in Monroeville, Pa. The death scene was contaminated from the outset, as there are reports a neighbor cleaned-up a mess of vomit and a bathroom as police arrived to
      answer the call. Following the sentencing
      hearing last week, several of Michelle’s friends who were at the court said they were told prior to calling the police, Dana said he went out jogging only to return and find his wife was dead. The death of Dana’s wife remains under investigation by the Ohio Bureau of Criminal Identification.
     
      ***************
      Pictured: FORMER CENTER MIDDLE SCHOOL TEACHER and coach, Jay Dana, center, is flanked by his defense team of Atty. Desirae DiPiero and left, and her stablemate, chief counsel J. Gerald Ingram, as Dana appeared for sentencing last week in the Mahoning County Common Pleas Courtroom of Judge Maureen Sweeney.
  Restaurant Owner Gets Jail Time For Burning Down His Business  
  July 23, 2015 Edition  
     42-year-old Raj Ingle, former owner of the Spice of India Restaurant, 8395 Market St. at McClurg Rd., was sentenced to 18 months in jail on charges of arson and insurance fraud on Monday by a visiting judge in Mahoning County Common Pleas Court
      The restaurant Ingle owned was torched on Oct. 8, 2013, causing an estimated $225,000 damage.
      The investigation into the blaze led law enforcement officials to believe that Ingle arranged the fire during a meeting with two men at a restaurant in North Lima. Ingle and two suspected torch men were captured on a surveillance tape at the restaurant.
      On the morning of the fire, near 3:00 a.m., a cell phone that belonged to one of the torch men pinged off a telephone pole across from the restaurant, the investigation showed.
      Additionally, evidence of accelerants was found throughout the burned-out restaurant.
      Judge Thomas Pokorny sentenced Ingle, who owns a home at 10061 Brushwood Dr. in Streetsboro, Oh., and rents an apartment at 31 Carter Circle, #5 in Boardman, to a year in jail on the arson charge and six months in jail on the insurance fraud charge.
      The two torchmen in the blaze, Christopher Reynolds and Jessie Winphrie, as well as Ingle’s niece, Sonia Bhatia, each received jail terms of 20 days and 160 hours of community service for their roles in the arson.
      Additionally, Ingle, Bhatia, Reynolds and Winphrie, were ordered to pay $190,000 in restitution to the owner of the building, Nick Tzarnas. For many years, the Tzarnas family had operated a restaurant, the Town and Country, at the site.
      Ingle had filed an insurance claim following the blaze at the Spice of India. That claim was denied.
      Ingle and Bhatia also operate Jewels and More in the Southern Park Mall.
      In July, 2014, Bhatia said a black man selected some $93,000 worth of jewelry, then ‘took out his wallet as if to pay for the merchandise,’ but fled on foot with the jewelry before paying.
      An investigator in that case suggested an insurance claim filed over that robbery was paid, but at a much lower rate than the claim sought, perhaps no more than $12,000.
      An outstanding warrant is still active from the 2014 robbery and names Brandon Orgdon as a suspect.
      Bhatia was convicted in 2012 of obstruction of justice in a Mahoning County Common Pleas Court and was placed on probation for a year and fined $250. That case involved an investigation that was conducted by Austinown police and the Mahoning County Sheriff’s Office. A law enforcement official said that Bhatia was less than cooperative when questioned by authorities during their probe.
   
  July 23, 2015 Edition  
     ENJOYING A ROMP AT THE Marge Hartman Dog Park in Boardman Park last week are two ‘regulars,’ at left a mutt named Ziggy, and on right a poodle named Khaos. Khaos won’t get to play for a couple of weeks due to forthcoming hip surgery.
  Former Restaurant Owner To Face Sentencing  
  For Arson, Insurance Fraud:   July 16, 2015 Edition  
     A sentencing hearing in the arson/insurance fraud conviction of Raj Ingle, former owner of the Spice of India restaurant located at Market St. and McClurg Rd., has been set for Mon., July 20 in the Mahoning County Common Pleas Court.
      Ingle, who operates Jewels and More in the Southern Park Mall, entered a guilty plea in May to felony charges of arson and insurance fraud.
      The Spice of India restaurant burned down Oct. 8, 2013. Investigators say a deal made at a Beaver Township restaurant between Ingle and two men to torch the Spice of India was captured on a surveillance tape; and a cell phone registered to one of those two men pinged off a telephone pole near the restaurant at the time of the fire.
      Ingle was indicted Feb. 20, 2014 on the arson and fraud charges. He finally entered a plea to the charges more than 15 months later, after 11 pre-trial hearings and six continuances.
      The fire caused an estimated $225,000 in damages and the restaurant was totally destroyed. Ingle filed an insurance claim on the restaurant soon after it was destroyed, but never collected the money, an investigator told The Boardman News.
      In a plea agreement with the Mahoning County Prosecutor’s Office, Ingle agreed the maximum penalties he faces in 36 months in jail and a $10,000 fine on the arson charge, and a year in jail and a $2500 fine on the fraud count.
      His plea agreement says prison sentences are “not presumed necessary or mandatory.”
      The plea agreement also says Ingle could be eligible for the imposition of a community control sanction of three years, and his decision to plead guilty “places me completely, and without reservation of any kind, upon the mercy of the court.”
      Three other person have also entered guilty pleas related to the Spice of India fire.
  Youth Grid League Takes Its Game To The Court For A Second Time  
  Youngstown Youth Flag Football Will No Longer Play Games At BHS:   July 16, 2015 Edition  
     A lawsuit against a youth football league that was dismissed Apr. 22 has been refiled by the Youngstown Youth Flag Football Association against a rival league, the upstart NEO Flag Football, headed-up by Peter J. Raptis, of 5720 Sharon Dr.
      Youngstown Youth Flag Football is headed by former Youngstown State grid player, Elliot Giles, and for the past eight seasons has played its games on Sundays at Boardman High School.
      The Youngstown Youth Flag Football Association will no longer play its games at Boardman High School.
      “We have informed the Youngstown Flag Football Association they can no longer play their games at Boardman High School,” Tim Saxton, director of operations for the Boardman Local School District said last week.
      Registrations for Youngstown Youth Flag Football and NEO Flag Football are currently underway.
      Several parents told The Boardman News the Youngstown-based league has not informed participants where games will be played this fall, while the NEO loop will play its games at a middle school in Canfield.
      In its second attempt to quash the NEO league, Youngstown Youth Flag Football (YYFF) claims that Raptis was a former coach in YYFF and was required to sign a non-compete agreement to coach in the league.
      “On or about Dec. 2, 104, Raptis registered the domain name and created a web site for NEO Flag Football, and operated a youth football league in Canfield, in violation of his confidentiality and non-compete agreement,” says the YYFF suit filed by Atty Bruce Broyles.
      The YYFF claims it will “suffer great or irreparable harm results from [Raptis and NEO] competing with its youth football league.”
      In the suit, the YYFF seeks a restraining order that would prevent NEO and Raptis from operating a youth flag football league for three years within a 100 mile radius of Youngstown, “either directly or indirectly through this persons.”
      The suit filed last spring also sought a restraining order that was denied by Magistrate Dennis Sarisky.
      According to court filings, Raptis signed a non-compete agreement with the YYFF on Aug. 29, 2014.
      The YYFF agreement filed with the court says that “Coaches acknowledge that the trade secrets derive independent economic value not being generally known to, and not really ascertainable by proper means by either persons who would obtain economic value from their disclosure or use.”
      That agreement also notes “This in no way prevents a [YYFF] coach from participating as a coach in any other league, but [YYFF] coaches should not be involved in the organization or creation of competition with the [YYFF] league.”
      Atty. John Shultz is representing NEO football in the suit.
      According to the YYFF web site, the league provides “a structured, organized non-contact league that focuses on the basic fundamentals of football while targeting the world wide dilemma of juvenile obesity.”
      The NEO web site says its primary focus is to “ensure all kids get the opportunity to learn and play during every game...Your child will feel like a real star and learn the fundamentals and skills for football, while staying active.”
  Benefit July 26 For Breanna Coonce  
  July 16, 2015 Edition  
     Breanna Coonce, 17, a Canfield senior, was diagnosed with Embryonal Rhabdomyosarcoma in Dec. 2014.
      Instead of spending her days with her friends and enjoying her last year of school she is spending her days in treatment. With 43 weeks of treatment and a long road ahead of her she is still very optimistic that she has this cancer beat.
      Maggie Coonce her mother is also raising two other children (Brittany & Robby) while trying to stay strong for Breanna.
      A benefit for Breanna will be held on July 26, at Skate Zone Fun Center in Austintown, 5420 Mahoning Ave., from 1:00 to 5:00 p.m.
      We are asking for donations of any kind to help make this a fun filled event for Ms. Coonce. We would like to do a Chinese raffle, 50/50 and Pepsi Company and Kaleel Bros. will be donating some items for us to raffle off.
      For more information please feel free to contact Amy Latimer at 330-519-0572.
      Anything would be greatly appreciated and thanks for the support.
     
  LEGAL NOTICE  
  July 9, 2015 Edition  
     The Boardman Township Zoning Commission will conduct a Public Hearing on the following amendment to the Boardman Township Zoning Resolution and Township Zoning Map on Thursday, July 30, 2015 at 5:30 P.M. in the Marie P. DeBartolo Meeting Room, Boardman Township Government Center, 8299 Market Street, Boardman, Ohio, 44512. Texts and map of the proposed changes may be viewed in the Zoning Office, same address, between the hours of 8:00 A.M. and 4:00 P.M. Monday through Friday, until the time of the Hearing.
      Following the recommendation of the Zoning Commission, the proposed amendments will be referred to the Board of Trustees for final determination.
      AMENDMENT A-2015-10
      Pursuant to Article XVI, Section F, Part a, Number 1 of the Boardman Township Zoning Resolution, as amended through May 29, 2012, concerning the initiation of amendments to the Township Zoning Resolution, the Board of Trustees of Boardman Township find it necessary to initiate hearings to amend the Boardman Township Zoning Resolution and Township Zoning Map to reclassify and rezone the following parcels of real property from a Residence R-2 District to a Residence R-1 District as stated below:
      Forty-four (44) Parcels along Terrace Drive between Southern Boulevard and Market Street
      Thirty-nine (39) Parcels along Homestead Drive between Southern Boulevard and Market Street
      Peter W. Lymber, Chairman
      Boardman Township Zoning Commission
      Sarah Gartland, Zoning Inspector
  LEGAL NOTICE  
  July 9, 2015 Edition  
     The Board of Trustees of Boardman Township will conduct a Public Hearing on the following amendments to the Boardman Township Zoning Resolution and Township Zoning Map on Monday, July 27, 2015 at 5:00 P.M. in the Marie P. DeBartolo Meeting Room, Boardman Township Government Center, 8299 Market Street, Boardman, Ohio, 44512. Texts and map of the proposed changes may be viewed in the Zoning Office, same address, between the hours of 8:00 A.M. and 4:00 P.M. Monday through Friday, until the time of the Hearing.
      This is the final hearing in determination of this case. The Board will act within twenty (20) days of the hearing date.
      AMENDMENT A-2015-08
      Pursuant to Article XVI, Section F, Part a, Number 1 of the Boardman Township Zoning Resolution, as amended through May 29, 2012, concerning the initiation of amendments to the Township Zoning Resolution, the Board of Trustees of Boardman Township find it necessary to initiate hearings to amend the Boardman Township Zoning Resolution and Township Zoning Map to reclassify and rezone the following parcels of real property from a Residence R-2 District to a Residence R-1 District as stated below:
      Forty (40) Parcels along Terrace Drive between Southern Boulevard and Erie Street
      Forty-six (46) Parcels along Homestead Drive between Southern Boulevard and Erie Street
      AMENDMENT A-2015-09
      Scott C. Radcliff, AIA, Hasenstab Architects, 190 North Union St., Ste 400, Akron Ohio, 44304, applicant, on behalf of the property owner, HMHP Childrens Inc., One Perkins Square, Akron, Ohio 44308, requests the rezoning of a portion of a lot from a Residential R-1 district to a Commercial district. The request is for a 136.79’ x 200.95’ portion of 6505 Market Street, also known as Lot 1 of the Beeghley Medical Center Plat 1, Parcel Number 29-004-0-131.00-0. The portion requested is 0.631 acres and located along the southerly boundary of the property, increasing the total depth of Commercial zoned property on Market Street at this point from 150’ to 436.79’. This property is located along the east right-of-way of Market Street, 223.61’ north of the Market Street – Ferncliff Avenue intersection in Boardman Township, Mahoning County, State of Ohio.
      Brad Calhoun, Chairman
      Board of Trustees, Boardman Township
      Sarah Gartland, Zoning Inspector
  Resolution  
  July 9, 2015 Edition  
     BOARDMAN TOWNSHIP TRUSTEES
      MAHONING COUNTY, OHIO
      RESOLUTION #15-07-01-10
      ENACTING A RESOLUTION REGULATING PARKING ON GRASS PORTIONS OF RESIDENTIAL PROPERTY
      The Board of Trustees of Boardman Township, Mahoning County, Ohio met in Regular Session at the Boardman Township Government Center on the first day of July, 2015, with the following members present: Thomas P. Costello, Brad Calhoun, and Larry Moliterno.
      Moved by Mr. Larry Moliterno to approve and adopt Resolution #15-07-01-10 as follows:
      WHEREAS, the Boardman Township Board of Trustees approved a Resolution on June 23, 1993, establishing a Parking Violations Bureau and adopting non-criminal parking infraction violations pursuant to Ohio Revised Code §505.17 and Ohio Revised Code Chapter 4521; and
      WHEREAS, Ohio Revised Code §505.17 authorizes the Board of Township Trustees to make regulations and orders as are necessary to control all vehicle parking in the unincorporated areas of the Township; and
      WHEREAS, Boardman Township desires to provide access to properties by public safety vehicles and equipment and to protect the integrity of the Township through the regulation of parking on grass portions of residential property which is necessary for the general health, safety and welfare of the general public;
      NOW, THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED, by the Boardman Township Board of Trustees pursuant to Ohio Revised Code §505.17, that no person shall stand or park a vehicle, except when necessary to avoid conflict with other traffic or to comply with the provisions of the Ohio Revised Code, or while obeying the directions of a police officer or a traffic control device, in any of the following places:
      In the front yard or side yard on a residential lot on the grass, between the curb line and the principal structure of any residential property. Residential parking is permitted only on hard paved surfaces of driveways or parking spaces such as gravel, asphalt, or concrete. Except in the case of special events, including but not limited to graduations, open houses, family picnics and social events, when the non-grass portion of the residential driveway cannot accommodate the number of vehicles attending such event and that such parking shall be limited to the duration of the event, but not to exceed twelve (12) hours.
      BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, that Boardman Township established a Parking Violations Bureau pursuant to Ohio Revised Code Chapter 4521. Violations of this Resolution shall not be considered criminal offenses and shall be handled pursuant to Chapter 4521 of the Revised Code. Fines levied and collected under this section shall be paid into the Township General Revenue Fund.
      BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, that this Resolution will be known as “Code #1.20 Parking on grass of residential lot” and is hereby an addition to the Resolution enacted on June 23, 1993, establishing the Parking Violations Bureau and non-criminal parking infraction violations pursuant to Ohio Revised Code §505.17 and Ohio Revised Code Chapter 4521.
      BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, pursuant to Ohio Revised Code §505.17(B)(1), this Resolution established by the Board of Trustees shall be posted by the Township Fiscal Officer in five conspicuous public places in the Township for thirty days before becoming effective, and shall be published in a newspaper of general circulation in the Township for three consecutive weeks.
      Mr. Thomas P. Costello seconded the motion to approve Resolution #15 -07-01-10.
      The Roll Call resulted as follows:
      Thomas P. Costello AYE
      Larry Moliterno AYE
      Brad Calhoun AYE
      By Order of the Boardman Township Trustees:
      Thomas P. Costello, Trustee
      Larry Moliterno, Trustee
      Brad Calhoun, Trustee
      ATTEST:
      William D. Leicht, Fiscal Officer
      CERTIFICATION
      I, William D. Leicht, Boardman Township Fiscal Officer, do hereby certify that the foregoing Resolution is taken from the Minutes of Boardman Township at a meeting duly-held on July, 1, 2015, that the same has been compared by me with the original Resolution of said Minutes, and that said Resolution is a true and correct copy thereof.
      William D. Leicht, Fiscal Officer
     
  NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING  
  July 9, 2015 Edition  
     The Boardman Township Board of Appeals shall hold a Public Hearing on Tuesday, July 21, 2015 at 7:00 P.M., at the Boardman Township Government Center, 8299 Market Street, Boardman Township, Ohio, 44512, for consideration of the following cases:
      APPEAL CASE AC-2015-13
      Atty. Bryan M. Ridder, 20 Federal Plaza W, Ste. M6, Youngstown, OH 44503, on behalf of identified homeowners and residents in Boardman Township, appeals the decision of the Boardman Township Zoning Inspector in the review and denial of Zoning Permit Application Number 2015-0140, June 9, 2015. The review pertains to proposed construction of four-plex residential buildings located at Lots 1, 13, and 14 of the Sigle Replat, also known as 8086 Sigle Lane. Said property is zoned Residence R-1 in Boardman Township, Mahoning County, State of Ohio.
      APPEAL CASE AC-2015-14
      Atty. Stuart A. Strasfeld and Atty. Louis P. Alexander, Roth Blair Roberts Strasfeld & Lodge LPA, 11 South Main Street, Columbiana, Ohio, 44408, on behalf of the property owner, 1985 LLC, P. O. Box 1433, Youngstown, Ohio 44501, appeals the decision of the Boardman Township Zoning Inspector in the review and denial of Zoning Permit Application Number 2015-0140, June 9, 2015. The review pertains to proposed construction of four-plex residential buildings located at Lots 1, 13, and 14 of the Sigle Replat, also known as 8086 Sigle Lane. Said property is zoned Residence R-1 in Boardman Township, Mahoning County, State of Ohio.
      Text and maps of the request may be viewed at the Boardman Township Zoning Office, 8299 Market Street, Boardman, Ohio, 44512, Monday through Friday, between the hours of 8:00 A.M. and 4:00 P.M. until time of the hearing.
      Atty. John Shultz, Chairman
      Boardman Township Board of Appeals
      Sarah Gartland, Zoning Inspector
  LEGAL NOTICE  
  July 9, 2015 Edition  
     The Board of Trustees of Boardman Township, Mahoning County, Ohio, hereby gives notice to the Owners of Record, Holders of a Legal Lien, and /or Holders of an Equitable Lien of the following property situated in the Township of Boardman, County of Mahoning, and State of Ohio, being described as:
      Parcel 29-063-0-204.00-0, 5009 Firnley Avenue, Boardman, Ohio 44512, Lot 29, Beech Plat, Owner of Record: BAT Holdings One LLC, that the single-family dwelling located at said property has been condemned as unsafe and dangerous to life or health by the Boardman Fire Department.
      THE BOARD OF TRUSTEES OF BOARDMAN TOWNSHIP, MAHONING COUNTY, OHIO, HEREBY GIVES NOTICE THAT PURSUANT TO THE PROVISIONS OF SECTION 505.86 OF THE OHIO REVISED CODE, THE BOARD INTENDS TO DEMOLISH AND REMOVE THE ABOVE REFERENCED STRUCTURES LOCATED ON SAID PROPERTIES THIRTY (30) DAYS AFTER THIS NOTICE.
      SAID BUILDING(S) SHALL BE REMOVED BY DEMOLITION THIRTY (30) DAYS AFTER THIS NOTICE, UNLESS PRIOR TO THAT TIME YOU: 1) Enter into an agreement with the Board of Trustees to perform the required actions to bring the structure to a habitable and safe state; or 2) Request a hearing before the Board of Township Trustees in writing addressed to the following:
      Sarah Gartland, Zoning Inspector,
      Boardman Township Zoning Office,
      8299 Market Street, Boardman, Ohio, 44512.
      BY THE ORDER OF THE BOARD OF TRUSTEES
      William D. Leicht, FISCAL OFFICER
  NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING  
  July 2, 2015 Edition  
     NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING
      The Boardman Township Board of Appeals shall hold a Public Hearing on Tuesday, July 14, 2015 at 7:00 P.M., at the Boardman Township Government Center, 8299 Market Street, Boardman Township, Ohio, 44512, for consideration of the following cases:
      APPEAL CASE AC-2015-10
      Daniel A. Dailey, 8219 Stadler Avenue, Boardman, Ohio 44512, property owner, request a variance from the terms of Boardman Township Zoning Resolution, effective May 29, 2012, Article VII – Residence R-2 Districts, Section C Private Garages and Other Outbuildings, in order to construct a detached garage that is 1920 square feet in size, exceeding the maximum allowable size of 676 square feet. The garage is proposed to be constructed at 77 Boardman Boulevard, further known as parcel number 29-033-0-087.00-0. Said property is zoned Residence R-2 in Boardman Township, Mahoning County, State of Ohio.
      APPEAL CASE AC-2015-12
      Karen Maselli, KAM Marketing Inc., 1224 Bellaire Place, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania 15226, on behalf of the property owner, CTW Development, 970 Windham Court, Suite 7, Boardman, Ohio 44512, requests a Conditional Use Permit in accordance with the terms of Article XVI Administration, Section I Conditional Use Regulations, of the Boardman Township Zoning Resolution, effective May 29, 2012, to allow for the operation of an adult entertainment arcade which is identified as a Conditional Use in Article XIX Land Use Tables. Said business is proposed to be operated at the Spartan Square Plaza, 7684 Market Street, Suite 1, Boardman Ohio 44512, also known as Lot 7 of the Agnew Plat 1 Replat, Parcel Number 29-092-0-100.00-0, which is zoned Commercial in Boardman Township, Mahoning County, Ohio.
      Text and maps of the request may be viewed at the Boardman Township Zoning Office, 8299 Market Street, Boardman, Ohio, 44512, Monday through Friday, between the hours of 8:00 A.M. and 4:00 P.M. until time of the hearing.
      Atty. John Shultz, Chairman
      Boardman Township Board of Appeals
      Sarah Gartland, Zoning Inspector
  Consolidation Of Elementary And Middle Schools  
  ‘Downsizing’ High School Among Concepts Heard At Forum:   July 2, 2015 Edition  
     The Boardman Local School District concluded a three-day ‘visioning’ seminar last Friday with many of the 60 people who attended suggesting the local school system should collaborate more in the classroom---In other words students should study/work together in small groups, and teachers should ‘pair-up’ when delivering their lessons or providing other classroom duties.
      The visioning seminar was directed by Harvard graduate and educational planner, Dr. Frank Locker, who touted what he called “21st Century Schools.”
      The local school system paid Locker $22,000 to oversee the seminar.
      Locker said that 21st Century schools will shift from “teacher-centered learning to student-centered learning,” and “the end of the classroom as we know it.”
      Locker’s three-day event was staged in light of an Ohio School Facilities Commission (OSFC) report received by the Boardman Local School Board last November that suggested the local district needs upwards of $130 million in capital improvements, all but 17 per cent of that cost borne by local taxpayers.
      Among the concepts often-heard at the visioning forum were the closing of two elementary schools (West Blvd. and Market St.), and consolidation of Boardman’s two middle schools into a ‘new building’ that would adjoin the current Boardman High School.
      While Boardman Local School Board member John Landers told those at the visioning forum that the school board has not determined what to do about its buildings, Supt. Frank Lazzeri called the forum “A starting point... We all agree some things need changed for our students and our teachers.”
      Lazzeri said “The next step is to put a strategic plan together. We can start that process maybe later this year.”
      “We need to have teachers, parents and administrators involved in this process,” the superintendent added.
      Lazzeri indicated that ‘local control’ of school systems may no longer a reality in light of the federal mandates of No Child Left Behind and the Common Core curriculum.
      Should the local school board move forward with some type of capital improvement program, the superintendent said “The only place we can get state money is if we follow state guidelines.”
      Boardman teacher Maddalena Amero echoed an opinion voiced by many teachers at the forum, the frustrating impact of teaching to state-mandated standards.
      “State testing frustrates teachers,” Amero said, adding “Testing takes over the schools and the professionalism of teachers.”
      Last Friday’s forum began with discussion on spaces in future school buildings, like classrooms.
      Locker suggested 21st Century schools include round classrooms (more expensive to build than square classrooms), no straight hallways, new furniture and “the end of the library as we know it.”
      A variety of learning modalities were suggested, including student collaboration, project-based learning, technology that includes mobile devices, and service learning (like the Distributive Education program of two decades ago).
      Locker suggested educators of the 21st Century are “looking for natural alignments...buildings that build relationships.”
      In such a building, local architect Ray Jaminet, who just completed construction of a new Beaver Local High School, said that teachers may no longer have their own classroom.
      “Classrooms will be used to teach more than just one subject, and teachers in the future will have their own office,” Jaminet said.
      A school library of the future would provide areas for students to collaborate, provide socialization and perhaps a snack area.
      “Books might be replaced by mobile devices,” Locker suggested.
      He also said school cafeterias of the future would provide students with a place for “greater sensitivity to social issues.”
      For example, instead of eating at ‘long tables,’ students could sit at round tables.
      “With your present facilities, you can do some things, but not like you could if facilities were designed for 21st Century schools,” Locker said.
      It seemed ironic that one of the most-favored concepts at the visioning forum---students and teachers collaborating---is a process that requires no, new buildings.
      Local school officials have been suggesting for the past several years that Center Middle School needs to be shut down, complaining that portions of the building are 100-years-old, there is no air conditioning, and there is not adequate space to wire the building to future standards that require computer learning.
      Despite such conditions, the Ohio Department of Education rates Center Middle School as achieving an ‘A,’ with 100 per cent of indicators met on the state report card.
      During the visioning forum, Supt. Lazzeri made an impassioned plea of the negative impact of trying to teach children at Center Middle in classrooms that are not air conditioned.
      “Believe me, I’ve been in those classrooms on hot fall and spring days, and it is hot,” Lazzeri said.
      One Center Middle teacher, Brad Calhoun, who also serves as a Boardman Township Trustee, disputed the superintendent’s position.
      “It doesn’t matter what type of environment you’re in,” Calhoun said, noting “A good teacher will find a way to educate children, no matter what the conditions.”
      Whether local school officials consolidate elementary and middle schools, or resize the current high school to include a wing for middle school students, or take any action, it is in response to the OSFC report issued last November.
      That report said the current high school building needed the following:
      •$4.063 million for a complete roof replacement.
      •$4.627 million for complete replacement of the electrical system.
      •$890,680 for security upgrades including the installations of outside barriers.
      •$426,147 for a new fire alarm system.
      •$825,059 to make the building more handicap accessible.
      •$1.293 million to improve the ‘site condition’ on the some 20-plus acres the school building sits on.
      •$146,500 for replace all 65 outside doors to the school and five overhead doors.
      •$331,068 for hazardous materials removal, including the removal of floor tile and piping insulation.
      •$1.169 million for ‘life safety’ that includes additional fire extinguishers in the school.
      •$1 million to replace ‘most of the furniture’ in the school.
      •$1.929 million to update technology.
      The current high school was built in 1969 at a cost of some $4.5 million.
      A new high school could cost upwards of $75 million, the school board was told last November.
      The OSFC study issued last November called for some $94 million in capital improvements to middle school and elementary school buildings, including
      •$29.488 million at Center Middle School.
      •$20.389 million at Glenwood Middle School.
      •$10.389 million at Market St. Elementary School.
      •$6.339 million at Robinwood Lane Elementary School.
      •$7.5 million at Stadium Dr. Elementary School.
      •$11.134 million at West Blvd. Elementary School.
      Because of the total cost of some $130 million called for by the OSFC, the local school board appears to be searching for more economical ways to reshape its system by consolidating schools, and at the same time laying the groundwork for a bond levy to fund construction of capital improvements.
      The visioning forum was the first step in that process.
      “You have to prep people,” Supt. Lazzeri said.
      Ohio School Report Cards issued by the Ohio Department of Education indicate that Boardman Local School students are largely achieving success in their current buildings and classrooms.
      In terms of achievement, the overall Boardman Local School District received a grade of ‘A’ on the state report card last year.
      Boardman High School, Center Middle School, West Blvd. Elementary School, Stadium Dr. Elementary School and Robinwood Lane Elementary School also received A’s. Glenwood Middle School received a ‘B’ on the state report card.
      The system’s lowest achieving school, Market St. Elementary School, where more than 60 per cent of its 400 student population are eligible for free or reduced lunches, received a C. According to the Ohio Department of Education, 54 per cent of the students at Market St. are economically disadvantaged.
      The overall student population of the Boardman Local School District has been declining for the past two decades, to about 4250 students last year.
      Supt. Lazzeri said he expects the student population to stabilize at current levels, suggesting the need to consolidate schools.
      “We used to be concerned about efficiency. Now we are concerned about effectiveness,” Lazzeri said when the forum opened
      “The 21st Century is very different that when we went to school...We are going to do some recalibration,” Locker said.
  Boardman Park’s Fireworks Show July 10  
  July 2, 2015 Edition  
     Due to heavy rains, Boardman Park has moved its annual Fourth of July fireworks show and concert to Fri., July 10 following the Air Force Band of Flight concert at the Maag Outdoor Arts Theater. The concert will get underway at 7:00 p.m., followed by the fireworks display.
  Will The Boardman Local Schools Embark Upon A Building Program, Tear Down Center Middle?  
  “We have to see what is palatable to the community”:   by John A Darnell, Editor   June 18, 2015 Edition  
      About 75 persons, including many Boardman Local School educators, attended a two-day workshop last Thursday and Friday where they discussed concepts of so-called 21st Century learning under the banner of “educational visioning.” The forum was headed by Dr. Frank Locker, an educational planner, architect and Harvard professor. A third forum will be held Fri., June 26, where participants are expected to focus on facilities utilized by the local school district.
      “Our goal is to evaluate how education is being provided today, and look for ways to improve outcomes for our students,” Supt. Frank Lazzeri said.
      According to Locker, “Educational visioning is a process that brings together stakeholders, residents and educators to develop learning concepts, goals and values which result in a comprehensive, long-term planning tool for the school district.”
      Locker calls the visioning process as “the cornerstone of all educational planning that defines the nature of school and community relations for years to come.”
      In the June 11 and 12 forums are any indications, and considering Locker was paid $22,000 by the Boardman Local Schools to present the workshop sessions, school officials appear committed to making some attempt to rebuild their facilities, either through renovations or new construction, and in the face of declining enrollment and tax base (for example, the Boardman Plaza’s devaluation in recent years has resulted in a loss of more than $120,000 in property tax revenues).
      Any effort, at present, could carry a steep price tag.
      For example, school officials have said for at least a decade that Center Middle School is aging. A portion of the school was constructed a century ago, and the building lacks a modern heating and air conditioning system.
      According to a report of the Ohio School Facilities Commission, cost of constructing a new middle school would approach $30 million. State subsidies would fund about 17 per cent of such construction, leaving about $26 million to be funded from local funds, likely generated from a property tax issue.
      Attending the June 11-12 forums was architect Ray Jaminet, whose firm just completed construction of a new high school for the Beaver Local School District in Columbiana County. According to Jaminet, state standards require the installation of costly HVAC systems that must be designed to re-circulate the air in every classroom three times an hour.
      Although much of the June 11-12 forums centered on classroom teaching and concepts, there were some suggestions that Boardman Local School should reorganize their facilities. For example, place all kindergarten through second grade students in one building, place third through sixth grade students into a second building, and for seventh through 12th grade, tear down Glenwood Middle School and build an addition on the current high school to serve all middle school students.
      “We have to see what is palatable to the community,” Lazzeri noted this week.
      Locker opened the forum last Thursday, assessing current statistical data of the Boardman Local Schools, including declining enrollment (now at some 4300 students), an aging infrastructure and increasing numbers of special education and English-learning students.
      Locker guided the forum into discussion of “tomorrow’s potential,” that included a suggestion of consolidating elementary schools, and issues like classroom equity, socio-economic equity and program delivery equity.
      A variety of ‘learning modalities’ were discussed that included such concepts as project-based learning, teachers lecturing, and collaborative projects among students as well as teachers.
      According to Locker, “21st Century schools will be very different than when ‘we’ went to school...We are going to do some recalibration...and talk about the best methods of teaching.”
      Locker said ‘the big picture’ is the recognition the world is radically different than traditional schools.
      He compared current methods of teaching the curriculum to “a factory assembly line.”
      As such, Locker decried current methods of teaching kids, suggesting traditional schools and classrooms are outdated, to the point secondary school students need to work in small groups, building projects, not necessarily ‘taught’ by their teachers, rather guided through their education by teachers, often in some sort of ‘collaborative’ exercises.
      Lockert said that currently, across the country, 25 per cent of all high school classes are on-line and by 2019, at least 50 per cent of all such classes will be on-line.
      Such a statistic “disrupts” the traditional classroom setting, Lockert suggested, noting sometimes “the machine (the computer) is more personable that the person.”
      He added “We need to continue to teach core subjects, but we need to adapt them to the 21st Century.”
      He said that 21st Century skills include creativity and innovation, critical thinking and problem solving, communication and collaborative skills, adding that project-based learning (where groups of students work together towards a common goal) is the poster child of 21st Century learning.”
      As such, Lockert called for an “integrated curriculum delivered by collaborative teachers in a relationship-based setting.”
      He expressed concern for the students who every year cause issues “and we can’t reach them.”
      His remarks drew a response from Boardman Local School Resource Officer, Sgt. Chuck Hillman, of the Boardman Police Department.
      “What I see, is those [problem] students have a lack of parental involvement,” Hillman said.
      A middle school teacher commented that in the learning process, “the family is huge, but sometimes parental involvement is hard to come by...The students want to learn, but the parents may not get them to school, or may not provide a good home environment.”
      One teacher at the forum said a parent actually fell asleep during a parent-teacher conference.
      Bart Smith, principal at Glenwood Middle School opined the local schools should proceed with ‘discovery learning’ where students get involved in community projects.
      As the forum opened last Friday for its second day, Locker suggested Boardman public schools need “fewer, but larger schools,” noting such an alignment might impact PTA units.
      “You might have to figure out a way to keep the network you have now, engaged in the schools in the future,” Locker said, adding that “We are grooming spokespeople for the process that will be carried forward.”
      Locker dished on the current layout of schools and classrooms, suggested 21st Century learning shouldn’t be provided in classrooms where students sit in long row of desks, listening to a teacher lecture.
      He displayed classrooms where students learn in a ‘lounge-type’ setting, where some kids just lay on the floor with heir books. Modern libraries also need to be redesigned, Locket suggested.
      He said that shifting to a K-2 school presents a number of challenges and “compromises may have to be made.”
      Much of the second day of the forum center on concepts such as ‘making things to learn’ and related classroom activities.
      When students have a project, like making something based on decisions made by small groups of students working together, students learn more and in the process build their self-esteem, Locker suggested.
      This is a good component of social-emotional learning,” he claimed.
      While project-based learning was largely highly touted, one teacher said the concept sounds great, “but if you did it everyday, it would become boring.”
      Robinwood Lane Principal Don Robinson opined the local school currently provide “project-based learning without any new facilities.”
      Longtime Market St. Elementary School teacher Julie Kaminista said the schools can provide project-based learning “with what we have, but it is not the best case scenario.”
      Several teachers at the forum said project-based and creative learning programs are currently hard to implement because of the time needed to prepare students for state-mandated testing programs.
      In brief remarks, local school board member John Landers noted that following the visioning programs “There will probably be multiple plans...but I don’t have all the answers.”
      Asked whether the local school system plans on “keeping the Center Middle School building,” Supt. Lazzeri responded, “No.”
      Noting $5 million in recent upgrades to Robinwood Lane and Stadium Dr. elementary Schools, the superintendent suggested the School Facilities Commission said the other two elementary schools, Market St. and West Blvd., “should go away.”
      “But, buildings don’t educate kids,” the superintendent said.
  Former Teacher/Coach Enters Guilty Plea  
  Jay Dana Faces Sentencing Hearing July 23:   June 18, 2015 Edition  
     A former Center Middle School teacher and athletic coach, 58-year-old Jay Dana, entered a guilty plea in a Mahoning County Common Pleas Court on Monday to two reduced charges of sexual battery and one count of attempted sexual battery in three date rape cases, two of which date back to 2006.
      According to court records, one of Dana’s victims was a 42-year-old woman, and another was a 51-year-old woman. The age of the third woman could not be determined.
      The plea bargain was accepted after Dana met with his lawyer, Atty. J. Gerald Ingram last Friday.
      A sentencing hearing has been set for July 23 in the Mahoning County Common Pleas Courtroom of Judge Maureen Sweeney.
      Dana’s trial, that had been lingering in the court system for two years on three, first-degree counts of rape, had been set for July 13.
      While awaiting trial and posting a $10,500 bond, the court allowed Dana to live in Ft. Myers, Fla. and once allowed the former teacher/coach to travel to New Mexico.
      According to the plea agreement, Dana will be sentenced to 75 days in jail and will be required to register as a sex offender for the rest of his life. According to Ohio sentencing guidelines, Dana could have faced a maximum of between three and eleven years in jail on each count of rape. Judge Sweeney does not have to accept the recommendations of the plea deal.
      In signing the plea agreement, Dana acknowledged the plea “is a complete admission of my guilt.”
      He added, “While I maintain my innocence, I acknowledge that the evidence which I have reviewed with an attorney creates a significant risk of conviction if this case were to go to trial. To avoid that risk, I freely plead guilty.”
      Evidence in the cases set before Judge Sweeney included the findings of the Ohio Bureau of Criminal Identification that linked Dana, through semen testing, to one of the defendants.
      Dana’s counsel had filed a motion before the court on Jan. 12, 2015, seeking the bench notes of forensic scientist Erkia Jimenez.
      Dana, who had taught for more than 20 years in the Boardman Local School system, abruptly left his job on May, 20, 2011, when Supt. Frank Lazzeri said that Dana took ‘a medical leave.’
      A supplemental narrative report filed the day before, shows two Boardman police officers, Ptl. Paul Poulos and Ptl. John Gocala, went to the residence of Marie Brickley, 7464 Huntington Dr. about 7:45 p.m.
      According to the report, Brickley told Officer Gocala that a man identified as Dana, with whom she had one date, “Startled her by showing-up at her residence...unexpectedly.”
      Gocala said the woman did not want to talk to Dana and he left on foot.
      On Sept. 10, 2006, a 42-year-old woman told police she went out with Dana on a date about 6:30 p.m. While traveling to Ben’s Restaurant in Berlin Center, the woman told police Dana gave her a “cranberry and vodka” to drink, while he consumed a Coors Light beer.
      After picking-up some food, the woman told police she and Dana went back to his residence on Walnut St. in Boardman.
      Once in the driveway, according to a police report, Dana told the woman he was going to get her more to drink and “wanted to take her for a ride in his car to show her something.”
      The woman told police that Dana took her to a parking lot (she couldn’t remember where). She insisted she needed something to eat.
      At that point, according to the woman, Dana gave her a carafe, and pointing to a spot on the container, told her to “drink this much.”
      The woman said she couldn’t recall many details “beyond that point.”
      She told police she could recall a clock in Dana’s car at 7:40 p.m., “being violently sick on his floor while laying naked on her right side; Dana helping her to the bathroom where she again vomited violently, and [Dana] slapping her naked buttocks telling her to get up.”
      The woman told police that Dana “finally got [her] back to the residence, where he put her on a chair on the back porch and left.
      She said when she awoke about 6:00 a.m., she had no underwear on, and at 6:30 a.m. she called Dana and asked if they had been intimate, “because she could not recall anything.”
      According to the police report, Dana acknowledged intimacy.
      Another police report shows on Oct. 30, 2006, Dana showed-up at St. Charles Church, 7345 Westview Dr., near 10:00 a.m. looking for the woman who told police about her Sept. 10 date.
      Officer Phil Merlo was at the church within a minute of the call and placed Dana in handcuffs in the back of his cruiser while police checked on the status “of any court (protection)orders,” the woman said she held on Dana.
      “Dana was subsequently released minutes later and issued a criminal trespass warning for the property at St. Charles Church at the request of the pastoral staff,” Ptl. Merlo said.
      Mahoning County court records show on Nov. 28, 2006, a petition for a protection order against Dana and filed by Marie Humphreys, was ismissed, as the woman failed to show-up for a hearing.
      In her petition, Humphreys told the court “I went out with Jay on a date and he used a date rape drug on me...I am not allowed to say much about this, because of the investigation.”
      Dana was indicted May, 2013, on a true bill for three counts of rape, one on Sept. 10, 2006, another between July 1 and July 31, 2006; and a third on May 20, 2011.
      Each count, each first degree felonies, noted the victims lacked the ability to resist or consent, and Dana knew their ability to resist or consent was “substantially impaired.”
      Law enforcement officials are still investigating the Christmas Day, 2010 death of Dana’s second wife, Michelle, 44, at the couple’s home at 145 Canterbury, Columbiana.
      According to Michelle’s brother, Chuck Gardner, Dana and his wife were at a family Christmas Eve party on Monroeville, Pa.
      “They left Monroeville sometime between 9:00 a.m. and 9:15 a.m.,” Gardner told The Boardman News.
      The following morning, at 9:20 a.m., Jay Dana called 9-1-1 saying he awakened to find his wife “laying on the floor beside him, unresponsive,” according to a report of Columbiana County Coroner Dr. William Graham Jr.
      Graham’s report shows that Mr. Dana said he and his wife had been drinking “wine and vodka shots.”
      In his call to 9-1-1, Dana said he and his wife had been “doing a drinking game.” Dana said he last saw Michelle alive about 1:00 a.m. on Christmas Day.
      Unrelated Allegations
      In the fall of 2011, a woman who used to live in Boardman and who had moved out of the Mahoning Valley gave a statement to Boardman police about her “two week” relationship with Jay Dana.
      The woman said she met Dana while working at a local hardware store at “the end of 1998 and the beginning of 1999, where he bought a grill, and in the process obtained her phone number.
      According to the woman’s statement, Dana asked the clerk over to his house ‘off Rt. 224 behind Pheasant Dr.’ She said during the dinner that Dana was polite and she recalled “how comfortable it was talking with him. He never made any sexual advances toward me.”
      A second date was arranged, that began with Dana picking the female up at her parent’s home in Youngstown and then driving back to his home in Boardman.
      “When I got in his car, he handed me a beer that had already been opened,” the woman said, noting Dana then drove them to a bar on Rt. 224, “out past Canfield a ways.”
      The woman continued, “We sat at the bar. He ordered beer for us both. We talked for a bit and then I got up to go to the bathroom.
      “When I came back, his back was towards me, and I saw him putting something in my glass. It was a capsule he opened.
      “I asked him what he was doing and he responded ‘something like what do you mean?’
      “He brushed it off and very shortly after suggested we leave and go somewhere else.”
      The woman told police Dana and his date then drove to a bar in Niles.
      “Before we went into the bar, we sat in his car and drank another beer. He handed me a bottle he had in his car,” the woman said in the statement that was provided to Boardman and Columbiana police.
      The woman said while at the bar in Niles, she had a drink but didn’t believe she finished it because she was getting sick.
      “I don’t remember the drive back to his house...I soon as we arrived at Jay’s house, I was feeling very sick to my stomach...I started violently throwing up, and it was black. I just kept getting sick and I was thinking that something wasn’t right about this...I thought I was going to die,” the woman said.
      She said the next thing she could remember was “taking a shower...and throwing up more in the shower. I did not have any clothes on, and I don’t know how they came off,” the woman said, adding “The next thing I can remember is Jay dropping me off at [my] home the next morning.
      “He let me out of the car and that was the last time I saw or spoke to him,” the woman recalled.
  LEGAL NOTICE  
  June 18, 2015 Edition  
     The Boardman Township Zoning Commission will conduct a Public Hearing on the following amendments to the Boardman Township Zoning Resolution and Township Zoning Map on Thursday, June 25, 2015 at 5:30 P.M. in the Marie P. DeBartolo Meeting Room, Boardman Township Government Center, 8299 Market Street, Boardman, Ohio, 44512. Texts and map of the proposed changes may be viewed in the Zoning Office, same address, between the hours of 8:00 A.M. and 4:00 P.M. Monday through Friday, until the time of the Hearing.
      Following the recommendation of the Zoning Commission, the proposed amendments will be referred to the Board of Trustees for final determination.
      AMENDMENT A-2015-07
      Pursuant to Article XVI, Section F, Part a, Number 1 of the Boardman Township Zoning Resolution, as amended through May 29, 2012, concerning the initiation of amendments to the Township Zoning Resolution, the Board of Trustees of Boardman Township find it necessary to initiate hearings to amend the Boardman Township Zoning Resolution and Township Zoning Map to reclassify and rezone the following parcels of real property from a Residence R-2 District to a Residence R-1 District as stated below:
      Forty (40) Parcels along Terrace Drive between Southern Boulevard and Erie Street
      Forty-six (46) Parcels along Homestead Drive between Southern Boulevard and Erie Street
      Peter W. Lymber, Chairman
      Boardman Township Zoning Commission
      Sarah Gartland, Zoning Inspector
  Hinkle Bocce Event July 19  
  June 18, 2015 Edition  
     The Youngstown State Penguin Club will hold the annual Debra L. Hinkle Football Scholarship Bocce Social on Sun., July 19, at Cassese’s MVR in Youngstown. The tournament, which is open to everyone, starts at noon.
      For more information contact the Penguin Club at (330) 941-2351. The deadline for registration is July 10.
      The event starts at 11 a.m. with a social hour featuring coffee, tea, donuts and pastries. The bocce tournament will begin promptly at noon. A buffet lunch will be served at 2:00 p.m. Lunch and beverages are included in the registration fee.
      The price for an individual is $55 for non-Penguin Club/Football Alumni members and $50 for Penguin Club/Football Alumni members. For couples, the price is $100 for non-members and $95 for members.
      Each participant will receive a t-shirt commemorating the annual Football Scholarship bocce social.
      Prizes will be awarded to the winning team, which are assigned or can be submitted prior to the event.
      All proceeds from the event benefit the Debra L. Hinkle Scholarship Endowment to support the YSU Athletics. Additional contributions can be made to the Hinkle Scholarship Endowment or the Football Alumni Scholarship Endowment at the event.
  Annual Freedom Warrior Golf Outing July 17 Benefits Local Veterans  
  June 18, 2015 Edition  
      Youngstown Air Reserve Base Community Council and Avalon Golf & Country Club announces that the 2nd Annual Freedom Warrior Golf Outing will take place on Fri., July 17, 2015 at all three of the Avalon Golf & Country Club golf courses including Avalon Lakes, Squaw Creek and Avalon at Buhl.
      The four person scramble begins at 11:00 a.m. and includes breakfast, lunch, dinner and an adult only evening gala event at Squaw Creek that will include heavy hors d’oeuvres, live music, a live and silent auction and ending with fireworks.
      Ron Klingle, owner of Avalon Golf & Country Club has generously donated all three courses and his staff to help with this event. This means that registration fees will go directly to provide assistance to the service men and women from our local community who have paid dearly for our freedoms. All proceeds will be used to help disabled and disadvantaged veterans from the Mahoning, Trumbull, and Mercer Counties with both basic and special needs as well as the emergency needs of our local military members. The YARBCC Charitable Fund is a 501 C (3), so donations are tax deductible.
      Registration is $250 per golfer or $1000 for a team with the course designation based on a first come first serve. Golfing also includes the evening event ticket. Tickets for the evening event only are $75. Sponsorship opportunities are available. More information and registration and donation forms can be found at www.SupportFreedomWarrior.com. Donations can also be made online.
      Team signups, tickets, sponsorships, or monetary donations can be mailed to YARBCC Charitable Fund c/o Jerry Lyda P.O. Box 75 North Lima, OH 44452.
      For additional information or to donate live or silent auction items please contact Lisa Dickson 330-509-9603.
     
  LEGAL NOTICE  
  June 11, 2015 Edition  
     LEGAL NOTICE
      The Boardman Township Zoning Commission will conduct a Public Hearing on the following amendments to the Boardman Township Zoning Resolution and Township Zoning Map on Thursday, June 25, 2015 at 5:30 P.M. in the Marie P. DeBartolo Meeting Room, Boardman Township Government Center, 8299 Market Street, Boardman, Ohio, 44512. Texts and map of the proposed changes may be viewed in the Zoning Office, same address, between the hours of 8:00 A.M. and 4:00 P.M. Monday through Friday, until the time of the Hearing.
      Following the recommendation of the Zoning Commission, the proposed amendments will be referred to the Board of Trustees for final determination.
      AMENDMENT A-2015-07
      Pursuant to Article XVI, Section F, Part a, Number 1 of the Boardman Township Zoning Resolution, as amended through May 29, 2012, concerning the initiation of amendments to the Township Zoning Resolution, the Board of Trustees of Boardman Township find it necessary to initiate hearings to amend the Boardman Township Zoning Resolution and Township Zoning Map to reclassify and rezone the following parcels of real property from a Residence R-2 District to a Residence R-1 District as stated below:
      Forty (40) Parcels along Terrace Drive between Southern Boulevard and Erie Street
      Forty-six (46) Parcels along Homestead Drive between Southern Boulevard and Erie Street
      Peter W. Lymber, Chairman
      Boardman Township Zoning Commission
      Sarah Gartland, Zoning Inspector
  LEGAL NOTICE  
  June 11, 2015 Edition  
     LEGAL NOTICE
      The Board of Trustees of Boardman Township will conduct a Public Hearing on the following amendments to the Boardman Township Zoning Resolution and Township Zoning Map on Monday, June 22, 2015 at 5:15 P.M. in the Marie P. DeBartolo Meeting Room, Boardman Township Government Center, 8299 Market Street, Boardman, Ohio, 44512. Texts and map of the proposed changes may be viewed in the Zoning Office, same address, between the hours of 8:00 A.M. and 4:00 P.M. Monday through Friday, until the time of the Hearing.
      This is the final hearing in determination of this case. The Board will act within twenty (20) days of the hearing date.
      AMENDMENT A-2015-07
      Pursuant to Article XVI, Section F, Part a, Number 1 of the Boardman Township Zoning Resolution, as amended through May 29, 2012, concerning the initiation of amendments to the Township Zoning Resolution, the Board of Trustees of Boardman Township find it necessary to initiate hearings to amend the Boardman Township Zoning Resolution and Township Zoning Map to reclassify and rezone the following parcels of real property as stated below:
      All Parcels within Boardman Township along Wendy Lane
      All Parcels within Boardman Township along Cover Drive
      And to rezone the northerly (rear) 50’ the following parcel from Residential R-2 Districts to Residential R-1 Districts:
      Parcel Number Address Legal Description
      30-028-0-015.00-0, 1940 BOARDMAN-POLAND RD., LOT 1, POLAND UNITD METHODIST
      And to rezone the following 2 parcels from Residential R-2 to Residential R-1 with the exception of the southerly 335’ which is currently zoned commercial:
      Parcel Number Address Legal Description
      30-028-0-009.00-0, 1816 BOARDMAN-POLAND RD., LOT 1 REPLLT 1 UNIVRLTYPL
      30-028-0-008.00-0, 1738 BOARDMAN-POLAND RD., LOT 1, BUD WEAVER REPLAT
      Brad Calhoun, Chairman
      Board of Trustees, Boardman Township
      Sarah Gartland, Zoning Inspector
  Amateur Bakers Sought For Slavic Baking Competition At Simply Slavic Festival June 20  
  June 11, 2015 Edition  
     Growing up Slavic in the Mahoning Valley meant slices of kolachi or homemade chrusciki in your lunch box instead of Twinkies and Oreos. The organizers of Simply Slavic want to encourage the perpetuation of those recipes and traditions.
      One way they do so is the Annual Slavic Baking Competition to be held at the 5th Annual Simply Slavic Festival on Sat., June 20, 2015. Organizers are inviting the region’s best amateur bakers to put their favorite recipe to the test!
      This fun, friendly contest encourages talented amateur bakers to show their skills by putting their favorite ethnic bake goods and recipes in front of local Slavic celeb judges. Entries will be judged on three criteria: Taste (50%), Authenticity (25%) and Presentation (25%).
      Interested participants should submit their entry form with a $5 non-refundable entry fee, and a description of 100 words or less. The entry form, which includes complete contest rules and information, is available online at www.simplyslavic.org.
      Remember to highlight pertinent information like its Slavic roots, holidays at which it might be used and where you first ate it. Mail it to Simply Slavic Baking Contest, 4442 Rita Ave., Youngstown, OH 44515. Entries will be accepted until Monday, June 15, 2015.
      On the day of the event, participants will then bring their entries to the Baking Contest table at the Simply Slavic Festival, inside Joe Maxx Coffee Shop, 47 Federal Plaza E., Youngstown (Realty Tower, street level), no later than 1:00 p.m. Judging begins at 2:00 p.m.
      Contestants are asked to bring two of the baked items (or two dozen of cookies) packaged separately. No baked goods can be submitted or will be accepted that have to be frozen, refrigerated or heated.
      Entry will be presented to judges at room temperature. Entries must be from non-professionals. Professional is defined as a person who is paid or has been paid to cook or bake.
      For more information call Mary Margaret Hovanes at 330-792-6281 or email bakingcontest@simpyslavic.org
      Simply Slavic was created in 2011 to educate both the region’s large number of Slavic descendants and the community-at-large about Slavic heritage. It did this by featuring live Slavic music, folk dance performances, homemade food, children’s learning areas, educational exhibits and workshops and ethnic vendors.
      Since that time the group has developed an active regional, national and even international following that follow their efforts to share news and event information of interest to Slavs on their website, www.simplyslavic.org, as well as on their Facebook page.
  Beloved Principal Tapped As Distinguished Alumni  
  Terry Samuels Led West Blvd., Center Middle Schools:   June 4, 2015 Edition  
Terry Samuels
      Longtime Boardman Local School administrator Terry L. Samuels, 76, was the honored recipient of one of two, Distinguished Alumni Awards that were handed out at the Boardman High School Senior Award Assembly held May 27 by the Boardman Alumni Association.
      Samuels, a 1957 graduate of Boardman High School, spent some 50 years in education, the majority with the Boardman Local School System where he served as principal at West Blvd. Elementary School and then at Center Middle School.
      Following his retirement as an administrator, he served as a Boardman school bus driver, while also serving as an academic advisor at Youngstown State University during a term that included the four national football championship teams coached by Jim Tressel.
      For some 15 years he would get up very early, drive his bus route, then go to YSU to work with student-athletes as an NCAA compliance officer, then return to Boardman to drive his bus route again.
      During his tenure leading Center Middle School, the school began to operate its own, closed-circuit television station.
      He also was a member and past president of the Boardman High School Band and Orchestra Parents, accompanying the marching band to parades in Philadelphia, New York City, Orlando, Fla. and Pasadena, Calif. He also served as chairperson of Boardman Band Night.
      Samuels is a two-time recipient of the Distinguished Service Award from the Ohio Association of Elementary School Principals and Administrators; and received the Outstanding Leadership Award in 1988 from the Mahoning County Association of Elementary School Administrators.
      He and his wife of 50 years, Marilyn, are the parents of two children, Mark and Lynn, both graduates of Boardman High School.
      “In my 35 years in education with the Boardman Local School System, I had the occasion to work with many fine people. To work with Terry Samuels was a privilege as I viewed him as more than an administrator. He was the ‘come up with an idea and we’ll run for it’ kind of man who would search the ends of the earth in order to help you be successful,” fellow educator Margaret Wellington said.
      Also recognized with a Distinguished Alumni Award was former teacher and Boardman High School graduate Jack Hay.
      Hay taught at Boardman High School from 1975-2010 and served as chairman of the English Department from 1998 until his retirement. He also served as Humanities Club advisor and Senior Class advisor, as well as an assistant football coach, baseball and softball coach.
      Hay is perhaps best-remembered for being named Head Football Coach at Boardman High School on Apr. 10,, 1997, and then resigning from the job before ever coaching a game, little more than six weeks after accepting the position.
  LEGAL NOTICE  
  May 14, 2015 Edition  
     LEGAL NOTICE
      The Boardman Township Zoning Commission will conduct a Public Hearing on the following amendments to the Boardman Township Zoning Resolution and Township Zoning Map on Tuesday, May 26, 2015 at 5:15 P.M. in the Marie P. DeBartolo Meeting Room, Boardman Township Government Center, 8299 Market Street, Boardman, Ohio, 44512. Texts and map of the proposed changes may be viewed in the Zoning Office, same address, between the hours of 8:00 A.M. and 4:00 P.M. Monday through Friday, until the time of the Hearing.
      This is the final hearing in determination of this case. The Board shall act at this hearing or within twenty (20) days of the hearing date.
      AMENDMENT A-2015-06
      Pursuant to Article XVI, Section F, Part a, Number 1 of the Boardman Township Zoning Resolution, as amended through May 29, 2012, concerning the initiation of amendments to the Township Zoning Resolution, the Board of Trustees of Boardman Township find it necessary to initiate hearings to amend the Boardman Township Zoning Resolution and Township Zoning Map to reclassify and rezone the following 103 parcels of real property in their entirety from Residential R-2 Districts to Residential R-1 Districts:
      49 Parcels along Tara Drive
      4 Parcels along Jochman Court
      5 Parcels along Delaware Avenue
      45 Parcels along Island Drive
      And to rezone the northerly (rear) 220’ the following 5 parcels from Residential R-2 Districts to Residential R-1 Districts:
      5 Parcels along Boardman Poland Road
      Brad Calhoun, Chairman
      Board of Trustees Boardman Township
      Sarah Gartland, Zoning Inspector
  St. Augustine Society Announces New Job Training Program For Our Youth  
  May 14, 2015 Edition  
     St. Augustine Society, a lay ministry outreach of Catholic parishioners in the Youngstown area, is pleased to announce the launching of Café Augustine, a jobs-readiness program to be located in the Newport Branch of the Mahoning County Library.
      This Café brings young adults, ages 18-24, who are disconnected from the working world to learn life-long skills to obtain and rise through the ranks of gainful employment. Along with life-long skills, students will learn self-discipline, how to manage and set goals and most of all to believe in themselves and their abilities.
      The public will be invited to meet, eat, and inspire Café Augustine students who will learn to operate a working lunch spot. After succeeding in this teaching workplace, students are then ready to be hired by commercial and institutional food service providers, or they may be inspired to seek further academic/technical education.
      Café Augustine was inspired by and will be patterned after a similar operation called Café Reconcile in New Orleans. Technical support will be received from Urban Strategies and from Café Reconcile. Since 2000, over 1000 students have completed training and have gone on to successful employment in the food service industry. View www.cafereconcile.org to see for yourself how this outreach to our youth can make a difference.
      On Tues., June 9, retired Sheriff Randall Wellington will host a wine and cheese tasting event, beginning at 6:30 p.m., at Our Lady of Mount Carmel Hall in Youngstown, where you will become aquainted with the dynamic neighborhood mission of Café Augustune.
      Come and join the founder of this social outreach, a positive visionary for our youth, Reverend Edward Brienz, who will introduce you to the current leaders and successful graduates of Café Reconcile, who will travel here from New Orleans for this special event. Learn about this program, that can make a difference to many youth in our community.
      Café Augustine will not be just another restuarant. It will be operated as a sheltered workshop and life-skills training ground for many of our 6,000+ youth of the city and county, who have somehow become disconnected from the working world.
      Be a part of this new venture that has been proven to change and save lives. For more information or to purchase tickets call 330-792-6646.
  Accepting Nominations For The National Philanthropy Day Awards  
  May 14, 2015 Edition  
     Nominations are now being accepted by the Association of Fundraising Professionals Mahoning-Shenango Chapter for the 2015 National Philanthropy Day Awards. This year’s luncheon ceremony will mark the 25th year of the awards in the Valley and will take place on Friday, November 20, 2015 at Mr. Anthony’s in Boardman.
      Nominations are now being accepted from the community in the following categories:
       Outstanding Philanthropist (individual or family); Outstanding Corporate Philanthropist (corporation or corporate foundation); Outstanding Small Business Philanthropist (100 employees or fewer); Outstanding Volunteer Fundraiser (individual or small group); Outstanding Civic Organization (civic volunteer group); Outstanding Young Philanthropist (individual or group, 18 and under); Legacy Award (presented in conjunction with The Mahoning/Shenango Planned Giving Council posthumously to an individual or family).
      Nomination forms and expanded descriptions of each award criteria are available at www.afpmash.org or by sending an email to afpmash@gmail.com. Nominations are due by 5pm on Fri., July 15, 2015 for consideration by the selection committee and should be directed to AFP P.O. Box 672 Youngstown, Ohio 44501 or emailed to afpmash@gmail.com. To be eligible, nominees must reside in Mahoning, Trumbull or Columbiana Counties in Ohio or in Mercer or Lawrence Counties in Pennsylvania.
      For more information, contact one of the Co-Chairs, Joann Stock, CFRE at Akron Children’s Hospital Mahoning Valley (330-746-9122), Catherine Cala at Youngstown State University at 330-941-2752 or Julia Pisansky at Beatitude House 330-744-3147.
     
  30th Relay For Life At Boardman Stadium  
  Opens Fri., May 15 At 6:00 p.m.:   May 14, 2015 Edition  
     The American Cancer Society will hold its annual Relay For Life event at Boardman Stadium at Center Middle School beginning on Fri., May 15 at 6:00 p.m. and ending on Sat., May 16 at 6:00 p.m. Theme this year is 1985: 30 Years Strong in celebration of the start of Relay For Life.
      “We have several fantastic teams this year and we hope to raise over $175,000,” said event chair Chary Hively.
      Relay For Life is a 24-hour event that brings together teams from local businesses, schools, churches and families for fun, food, music, entertainment and a night under the stars, while team members take turns walking or running on a track.
      The Relay For Life begins with a Can cer Survivors Lap and a reception to celebrate life. The funds raised from this event will support the American Cancer Society’s mission of saving lives from cancer and creating a world with more birthdays.
      One of the highlights of the event is the Luminaria Ceremony, that begins at dusk. During the event, people can purchase a luminaria in memory or in honor of someone who has been touched by cancer. Luminaria bags are placed around the track and lit during a memorial program that includes guest speaker Joshua Johnson.
      “I encourage everyone to come out to the event to cheer on cancer survivors during the opening ceremony and to remember everyone touched by cancer during the luminaria ceremony at dusk,” said Hively. “We invite all local cancer survivors, family and friends to attend.”
  LEGAL NOTICE  
  May 7, 2015 Edition  
     LEGAL NOTICE
      The Boardman Township Zoning Commission will conduct a Public Hearing on the following amendments to the Boardman Township Zoning Resolution and Township Zoning Map on Thursday, May 28, 2015 at 5:30 P.M. in the Marie P. DeBartolo Meeting Room, Boardman Township Government Center, 8299 Market Street, Boardman, Ohio, 44512. Texts and map of the proposed changes may be viewed in the Zoning Office, same address, between the hours of 8:00 A.M. and 4:00 P.M. Monday through Friday, until the time of the Hearing.
      Following the recommendation of the Zoning Commission, the proposed amendments will be referred to the Board of Trustees for final determination.
      AMENDMENT A-2015-07
      Pursuant to Article XVI, Section F, Part a, Number 1 of the Boardman Township Zoning Resolution, as amended through May 29, 2012, concerning the initiation of amendments to the Township Zoning Resolution, the Board of Trustees of Boardman Township find it necessary to initiate hearings to amend the Boardman Township Zoning Resolution and Township Zoning Map to reclassify and rezone the following parcels of real property as stated below:
      •All Parcels within Boardman Township along Wendy Lane,
      •All Parcels within Boardman Township along Cover Drive;
      And to rezone the northerly (rear) 50’ the following parcel from Residential R-2 Districts to Residential R-1 Districts:
      Parcel Number Address Legal Description
      30-028-0-015.00-0 1940 BRDMAN-POLAND RD. LOT 1, POLAND UNITED METHODIST;
      And to rezone the following 2 parcels from Residential R-2 to Residential R-1 with the exception of the southerly 335’ which is currently zoned commercial:
      Parcel Number Address Legal Description
      30-028-0-009.00-0 1816 BRDMAN-POLAND RD LOT 1 REPLLT 1 UNIVRLTYPL
      30-028-0-008.00-0 1738 BRDMAN-POLAND RD LOT 1, BUD WEAVER REPLAT
      Peter W. Lymber, Chairman
      Boardman Township Zoning Commission
      Sarah Gartland, Zoning Inspector
     
  LEGAL NOTICE  
  May 7, 2015 Edition  
     NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING
      The Boardman Township Board of Appeals shall hold a Public Hearing on Tuesday, May 19, 2015 at 7:00 P.M., at the Boardman Township Government Center, 8299 Market Street, Boardman Township, Ohio, 44512, for consideration of the following cases:
      APPEAL CASE AC-2015-08
      Robert S. Fellman, owner, RCJR Holdings Limited, 7811 South Avenue, Boardman, Ohio, 44512, requests a conditional use permit as per the terms of Article XVI, Section I, Conditional Use Permits of the Boardman Township Zoning Resolution, in order to expand the current property used for the sale of vehicles located at 7811 South Avenue, Boardman, Ohio, defined as a conditional use as per Article XIX Land Use Tables. Property owner also requests a variance from the terms of Article X Commercial Districts in order to construct an addition 8’ from the side yard property line, seeking a 2’ reduction from the required 10’ side yard setback. Said request is also known as Parcel Number 29-052-0-004.00-0, Lot 8 of the Williams and Carrier Replat. Said property is zoned Commercial in Boardman Township, Mahoning County, State of Ohio.
      Text and maps of the request may be viewed at the Boardman Township Zoning Office, 8299 Market Street, Boardman, Ohio, 44512, Monday through Friday, between the hours of 8:00 A.M. and 4:00 P.M. until time of the hearing.
      Atty. John Shultz, Chairman
      Boardman Township Board of Appeals
      Sarah Gartland, Zoning Inspector
     
  LEGAL NOTICE  
  May 7, 2015 Edition  
     Legal Notice
      Boardman Schools Saves Money
      Through its “Retire/Rehire” Program
      As part of the current negotiated agreements between the Boardman Board of Education and its unions (the Ohio Association of Public School Employees Chapter #334 and the Boardman Education Association) an employee may retire from the Boardman Local School District and be immediately rehired for less pay and benefits. There are substantial savings to the Board of Education for each employee who elects to participate in this opportunity. The Boardman Local School District has saved over $4,000,000 since instituting this program ten years ago. At this time, employees wishing to participate in this option can retire and be re-employed for the next calendar year.
      The employees listed below have indicated their intent to take part in this option for the next calendar year. This action will occur at the August 24, 2015 Board of Education Meeting.
      Janet Sypert, Market Street Elementary 2nd grade teacher;
      Janice Zorman, Robinwood Lane 4th grade teacher.
      Any citizen interested in hearing more details about this provision in the negotiated agreement or wishing to speak before the Board of Education regarding this matter may do so at the July Board of Education meeting. This public meeting will be held at 7:00 p.m. on Monday, July 27, 2015 at Boardman Center Middle School.
  Jolene Moschella Ross Makes An Appeal For Her Sister  
  Special Vehicle Would Allow Christine To Take Part In Life With Her Family:   May 7, 2015 Edition  
     Former Boardman High School and Youngstown State University basketball star, Christine
      Moschella Terlesky, who served as a teacher and a basketball and golf coach at Boardman
      following her graduation from college, has been battling Lou Gehrig’s Disease for more than a year. The crippling disease has left her largely dependent on her family and friends for most of what many take for granted. Last year thousands of people turned-out at a fundraiser for Christine that was held at Boardman High School. Funds from the event, more than $100,000 were used to make improvements to the Terlesky home in Boardman to help Christine battle her disease. Now, her youngest sister, Jolene, has begun a fund-raising drive to help Christine remain mobile. Jolene has made the following appeal through the web site, Go Fund Me, to raise funds to purchase a handicapped-equipped vehicle for her sister.
     
      BY JOLENE MOSCHELLA ROSS
      Christine Terlesky has been battling ALS now for over a year. She is a beautiful 42-year-old wife and mother of three children. Her positive spirit and personality are infectious. She has progressed to the point where she is now in need of a handicapped-equipped vehicle which would allow her to be able to travel more easily to continue to experience her life.
      Since her diagnosis she has become an inspiration to so many in her community, and she is determined to continue on enjoying her life with her family.
      Christine and her husband, Brian, have three beautiful children: Brian, 15, Tyler,10, and Emma, 6. She is so proud of them.
      Christine was a teacher, coach, and active mother until her world came crashing to a halt in the summer, 2013.
      She began noticing some odd things happening to her. Her arm was twitching, and she began tripping and falling on the ground. When she was out to dinner with her husband she fell and actually broke her ankle. Upon dealing with these odd occurrences, she consulted her physician (who was alarmed), and he ordered blood work and an MRI. The results of the MRI came clear, which was the first time that she actually told anything to us (her family) about her symptoms. We were relieved because the doctor was relieved, and she was told that she had a severe vitamin B12 deficiency which could mimic neurological diseases.
      We believed that the puzzle was solved, however, her doctor recommended that she keep her appointment with a neurologist at the Cleveland Clinic just to be sure. On Sept. 19 she went to the clinic, and this was the first time that it was mentioned that she might have ALS. It took two more doctors appointments and a second opinion at John Hopkins to verify that she in fact does have ALS. This all being confirmed with one test, an EMG.
      This kind of news rips your insides and creates a kind of pain that is hard to explain. Your stomach drops, your heart sinks, and you go into a state of disbelief. How is this possible? She is so young.
      After a year of living with the disease now Christine is adjusting. She has made many changes to her home. She has had to make many changes to her life. It has become very difficult to go places, but with the help of this vehicle, she will be able to go places that she wants to go, as well as doctors appointments that she must go on.
      After having watched my sister decline over the past year I have realized that she has dealt with the changes of her body and to her life with grace and dignity.
      She is one of those people who everyone likes. She always sees the good in others. Christine has a sweet, kind, and friendly personality. And she has always puts of the needs of her family above her own and continues to.
      She has spent the past nine summers helping her son, Brian, foster his golf career. One of her favorite joys in life is watching him golf and guiding him through some of his matches, as she was also the high school golf coach.
      Her son, Tyler, loves movies and swimming.
      And (their sister) Emma enjoys shopping, swimming, and excursions out to dinner. This vehicle is extremely expensive, but would give her such a great opportunity to take part in living with her family. Please help us help Christine get this transportation to continue on her with her life.
      Right now it is much too difficult to travel. This vehicle would allow her the ability to travel much more easily and she will be able to share in so much more of what this life has to offer. This vehicle would allow her to attend events with her family, to go to Brian’s golf tournaments, to share movies with Tyler, and the watch Emma at the swim club. We would like to allow her to continue to be able to share in the lives of her children.
      Christine’s Legacy
      Christine is a great teacher. Her passion for people and history led her into the teaching profession of which has been a high school history teacher for 19 years. Her enthusiasm for people and kids is remarkable. Her graduated students always come back to visit her sharing their stories of success and their admiration for her teaching.
      This diagnosis has shaken the whole community of Boardman where she lives and taught. She had to retire from her position in the middle of the school year last year.
      Christine is also tremendous athlete and coach. She played basketball throughout her high school career being one of the highest scorers in her high school history. She was ranked the #2 point guard in the state of Ohio in high school, and she made first team All Ohio and eventually was inducted into the Boardman High School Hall of Fame. She fulfilled all of these accomplishments and only being a mere 5-1 tall. She received a full scholarship to play Division I basketball at Akron University and then at Youngstown State University. This background allowed her to become a girl’s basketball coach for 16 years. She was definitely a spitfire of a player and a tough coach.
      Finally, Christine is a great older sister. Older sisters have a way of protecting and helping their younger sisters. My older sister has always taken care of us. And we have always looked up to her. She is the ultimate role model. I never would have imagined the support that she would need right now. It is now my turn to return the favor. Please join us in helping her get her van to get back part of her life.
      For information on helping Christine acquire a vehicle that would provide her mobility and the opportunity to watch her children, see http://www.gofundme.com/christinesvan-com.
     
  Boardman HS Teacher Placed On Paid Administrative Leave After Mar. 17 Fire  
  May 7, 2015 Edition  
     A shop teacher at Boardman High School was relieved of his duties on Mar. 17, following a fire in an industrial arts classroom.
      The teacher, Michael Powell, was placed on a paid administrative leave following the fire that caused the evacuation of students and staff from the high school.
      According to the Mar., 2015 monthly report of Boardman Township Fire Chief Mark Pitzer, Powell “was burning insulation off [electrical] wiring so he could scrap the copper wire inside.”
      Supt. Frank Lazzeri said the school district is conducting an internal investigation into the fire. Chief Pitzer said the Boardman Fire Department and Mahoning County Prosecutor’s Office declined to file charges in the matter.
      “The handling of this case has been placed back in the hands of the school district,” Chief Pitzer said.
      There was no reported damage from the fire, but school officials evacuated the building near 2:00 p.m., citing concerns over smoke and possible carbon monoxide in the building.
      “Ventilation took place and students were escorted back into the school,” Chief Pitzer said.
      Flames from the fire shot some 10-ft. to 15-ft. into the air. However, Powell indicated a ventilation in a welding area was not working properly, and smoke filled much of the high school.
      Boardman FD Investigator Lt. Jim McCreary said he found smoke throughout the first and second floors of the high school and it took some 30 minutes “to clear the building of smoke and render the school tenable for students to return.”
      McCreary said that seven students were interviewed about the fire, and they all told similar stories. “The students stated they voiced concerns to Powell about starting the fire inside the shop,” McCreary said, noting that Powell responded “there would be no problems.’
      McCreary stated that Powell placed about 40 pounds of electrical wiring (mostly extension cords and Christmas ‘twinkle lights’ into a steel bowl [used as a burning pit] and proceeded to use a cutting torch to ignite the wiring.
      A video of the event given to investigators, has Powell telling students “Don’t go huffing the smoke boys.”
      According to McCreary, “Once the fire started, the students were instructed by Powell to add more wire to the fire. This caused the size of the fire to increase and produce large amounts of smoke,” McCreary said.
      The fire was extinguished when Powell placed a large piece of steel over the blaze.
      “At no time did any of the students witness Powell use a fire extinguisher...At no time was anyone instructed to pull a fire alarm or sent to notify administration of the fire,” McCreary said.
      According to McCreary, Powell said he placed five to ten pounds of wire, mostly extension cords, into a steel vessel and set it on fire using a cutting torch.
      Powell said an exhaust fan was turned on, “but he noticed as the smoke began to build, it didn’t appear to be operating properly.”
      Powell told investigators he felt he could get the fire under control and that is why he didn’t pull a fire alarm or notify school administration, McCreary said.
      Powell also said he had started a fire in the shop ‘for the same reason’ on one other occasion, “after school hours and there were no students present.”
  LEGAL NOTICE  
  May 1, 2015 Edition  
     SECTION 00 11 13
      ADVERTISEMENT FOR BIDS
      BOARDMAN TOWNSHIP
      YEAR 2015 CATCH BASIN
      REPLACEMENT PROJECT
      Sealed bids will be received by Boardman Township (Owner), at their office, 8299 Market Street, Boardman, Ohio 44512, until 11:00 a.m., on May 11, 2015, and then later publicly opened and read aloud at the Boardman Township Trustee Meeting at 2:00 p.m. on May 11, 2015 held at the Boardman Center Middle School, 7410 Market Street, Boardman, OH 44512, for the Year 2015 Catch Basin Replacement Project.
      The work consists of furnishing all labor, materials and supplies necessary for the complete replacement of 23 catch basins (curb inlets) that collect storm water runoff from Township roadways throughout Boardman Township.
      Plans and specifications for the above PROJECT can be examined or purchased at the office of ms consultants, inc., 333 East Federal Street, Youngstown, Ohio 44503 between the hours of 8:30 a.m. and 4:30 p.m. (Monday through Friday). A complete set of the plans and specifications and bidding documents may be obtained at the above office upon payment of Fifty Dollars ($50.00) said sum is NON-REFUNDABLE. All checks shall be made payable to ms consultants, inc.
      Bids for the above-described work must be submitted on blanks furnished with the bidding documents.
      All bids must be accompanied by a BID GUARANTY in the form of either:
       (1) a Bid Guaranty / Contract Bond for the full amount of the bid, or
       (2) a certified check, cashier’s check, or letter of credit pursuant to Chapter 1305, ORC, in the amount not less than ten (10%) of the total amount of the bid pursuant to Chapter 153 of the Ohio Revised Code.
      The Bid Guaranty shall be made unconditionally payable to Boardman Township, Ohio.
      Each individual employed by the Contractor any Sub-contractor and engaged in work on the project under this contract shall be paid the prevailing wage established by the Department of Industrial Relations of the State of Ohio. This shall occur regardless of any contractual relationship that may be said to exist between the Contractor or any Subcontractor and such individual.
      All contractors and sub-contractors involved with the project will, to the extent practicable, use Ohio products, materialism services, and labor in the implement of their project. Additionally, contractor compliance with Equal Employment Opportunity Requirements of Ohio Administrative Code Chapter 123 and the Governor’s Executive Order 84-9, shall be required. Each bid submitted must have a copy of a current Equal Employment Opportunity (EEO) Certificate of Compliance. The Non-Collusion Affidavit of Prime Bidders must be completed and submitted with all bids. All bids must be identified by marking a sealed envelope – Boardman Township Year 2015 Catch Basin Replacement Project.
      The Owner reserves the right to accept or reject any and all bids, and to waive any informalities on the bids received.
      William D. Leicht
      Fiscal Officer
  Friends Of Scouting Annual Breakfast Fundraiser  
  May 19 At Camp Stambaugh:   May 1, 2015 Edition  
     The public is invited to the Whispering Pines District Greater Western Reserve Council Boy Scouts of America 10th Annual “Friends of Scouting” breakfast fundraiser May 19, at Camp Stambaugh, 3712 Leffingwell Rd., Canfield. The Greater Western Reserve Council Scouting Museum will be open and people movers will transport attendees through camp to the camp dining hall. Breakfast begins at 7:00 a.m.
      Please join us for this year’s theme “Leadership” which will recognize the impact of the Scouting Program in providing leadership skills training to our youth and how it prepares them for success in their future.
      Serving as Master of Ceremonies is Stacia Erdos.
      Keynote speaker will be Jim Tressel, President of Youngstown State University. Additional speakers will be Mr. Artemus “Art” Scissum, principal of Martin Luther King Elementary School in Youngstown, and Evan John, from the Order of the Arrow, Scouting’s National Honor Society which celebrates its 100th Anniversary this year.
      The Whispering Pines District of the Greater Western Reserve Boy Scout Council serves families in Mahoning County and Hubbard, with 1,215 youth involved in 42 units supported by 536 adult volunteers. Scoutreach is a program that serves “at risk” youth in city school systems. 450 Cub Scouts are served in the Youngstown City School system.
      Please mark your calendar and join us for this much needed fundraiser that strengthens the Scouting program for youth and families in our district. Scouting strives to develop leadership, character, citizenship and life-saving skills while enjoying camping, hiking, rock climbing, and more. Breakfast begins at 7:00 am and reservations are required by calling John Schlobohm at 330-898-8474 or emailing John.Schlobohm@scouting.org.
      If you are interested in making an investment in Scouting and cannot attend the event; donations can be made online at www.bsa-gwrc.org or by sending a check to Boy Scouts of America, Whispering Pines District, 4930 Enterprise Blvd. NW, Warren, Ohio 44481.
      Local businesses and friends of Scouting are encouraged to call about sponsorship opportunities for this year’s event. Special thanks to our past sponsors who have made a difference in the lives of thousands of young men and women in the Mahoning Valley. To request an e-mail for sponsorship levels contact: John.Schlobohm@scouting.org today!
     
  Mr. & Mrs. Edison Lugibihl Given Civic Association’s Lifetime Achievement Award  
  April 23, 2015 Edition  
     The Boardman Civic Association handed-out seven college scholarships, and presented a Lifetime Achievement Award Mr. and Mrs. Edison Lugibihl during its annual Academic Achievement Banquet held at the Georgetown last week. Featured speaker at the event was Dr. Justin Mistovich.
      Scholarships were presented to Jordan Snipes (Youngstown Christian), Luke Carrabia (Boardman High School), Victoria Valko (Boardman High School), Marie Shorokey (Boardman High School), Jonathan Ouimet (Boardman High School), and Mario Ricciardi (Cardinal Mooney High School).
      “Dr. Mistovich did a fabulous job encapsulating life’s important aspects and presenting inspiring words to the scholars that were in attendance,” said Meg Harris, BCA president.
      Mr. and Mrs. Lugibihl have lived in Boardman for more than 60 years, and are longtime members of Boardman United Methodist Church. Mr. Lugibihl retired as an educator in Nov., 1992, after a more than four decade career with Boardman Local Schools, where he served as a teacher and middle school principal.
      121 high school seniors were recognized for maintaining scholastic averages of 3.2 or better.
      99 students from Boardman High School were recognized, including Jamil Abdo, Mackenzie Allen, Brooke Bailey, Melanie Banko, Megan Banks, Gino Beato, Lee Billock, Ireland Blume, Isabel Bonhomme, Nancy Boulos, T’Amor Bowman, Luke Carabbia, Deanna Cassidy, Andrew Cessna, Brittany Chamberlain, Alexandra Chismar, Benjamin Clark, Frances Clause, Caroline Constantinovich, Dominique Cox, Breanna Deblois, Stephanie DeMain, Donald Dempsey, Rocci DeNiro, David Durthic, Michael Despetorich, Kacey Dickey, Dominic DiLullo, Alexis Downie, Cailin Downie, Renee Dubiel, Jessica Cox, Brian Fryda, Zachary Fryda, Hayley Gianfrancesco, Sarah Gonda, Hannah Grimes, Santino Guerrieri, Nathanial Harris, Brooke Harsh, Paige Headlee, Brian Hirschl, Kristen Huck, Konstantinos Kasamias, Charis Kasler, Douglas Kephart, Kelly Kratofil, Haley Landers, Scott Lendak, Julia Lewis, Amanda Lipke, Daniel Liptak, Jordan Long, Vincent Mancini, Anastasios Mihalopoulos, Corey Miles, Amanda Moss, Kaye Moyer, Trustan Myers, Kristina Nguyen, Maggie Nguyen, Michael Notar, Megan O’Neil, Matthew O’Nesti, Blaise Obritz, Jonathan Quimet, Michael Palagano, Arjun Pandya, Jessica Parillo, Robert Parkhurst, Ariana Pasqual, Alexa Pasquale, Hannah Pavelko, Jenna Pavlansky, Tyler Poulakos, Carly Redmond, Brandon Rigelsky, Gabrielle Rossi, Athena Russo, Samantha Sakmar, Juan Santiago, Kacie Santilli, Richard Santucci, Jessuica Schweinsberg, Marie Shorokey, Aaron Skeens, Zachary Smotzer, Anna Sracic, Matthew Stark, Kelsie Stutz, Kayleigh Sweeney, Nicholas Tancabel, Hannah Titus, Victoria Valko, Haleigh Vallas, Efrain Velez and Jacob Wagner.
      20 students from Cardinal Mooney HS were recognized, including Carly Berlon, Mary Buchenic, Jake Clarke, Christian Dama, Dante DeChellis, Samantha Ellis, Kacey Ellswroth, Kenneth Emch, Brooke Fonderlin, James Haddad, David Hughes, Trent Humphreys, Emily Kiraly, Brian Knotten, Christian Lowery, Timothy Pallotta, Vincent Pecchia, Mario Ricciardi and Vincent Vostatek.
      Recognized from Youngstown Christian School were Payton Schnabl and Jordan Snipes.
      The invocation and benediction were given by Kathi McNabb-Welsh. Serving as master of ceremonies was Mark Luke.
      Mr. and Mrs. Lugibihl were introduced to the Civic Association by Luke, who cited the Lugibihl’s history of service to Boardman Township and its public school system.
      Mrs. Lugibihl was employed as a secretary for former West Blvd. Elementary School Principal Dave Hatcher, and also to Supt. Irvin J. Nisonger. She retired in 1992. Mrs. Lugibihl has served as treasurer of Boardman United Methodist Church since 2004.
      Mr. Lugibihl is a recipient of the Rotary International Paul Harris Fellow award, a Boardman School Hall of Fame inductee, and served as treasurer of the two-year effort to build a new auditorium at Boardman High School under the banner of Auditorium 2000. He is a 40-year-member of the Phi Delta Kappa educational fraternity.
      In 1957, he helped to organize the Boardman Local Schools Employees Credit Union, serving as treasurer, while is wife served as manager. In 1992, the credit union merged with the Associated School Employees Credit Union where Mr. Lugibihl currently serves as treasurer.
      He was an assistant coach under Head Coach Jerry Thorpe for the 1960 Boardman High School football team that posted an unbeaten, 9-0, record.
      Mr. and Mrs. Lugibihl are the parents of three children, all graduates of Boardman High School, sons Jay and Tad, and daughter Gay. They have nine grandchildren.
  Community Garden Set At Southern Stables  
  April 9, 2015 Edition  
     Boardman Park and the Mahoning County 4-H will open a ‘Community Garden’ at Historic Southern Stables on Washington Blvd. The garden will provide 10-ft. by 20-ft. plots per gardener at a fee of $25. The garden season will run from May 1 to Nov. 15.
      “Gardeners can grow food for their own families or for charity,” says park executive director Dan Slagle.
      Community gardens provide fresh produce and plants as well as satisfying labor and a sense of community and connection to the environment.
      Those wishing to participate in the community garden at Southern Park will receive free water for their crops and periodic classes will provide instruction on gardening and related topic.
      Gardeners must provide their own seeds and/or plants, use their own tools, as well as fertilizer and mulch.
      “Our community garden will provide a place where each gardener will be part of a gardening community where there will be an atmosphere for a unique kind of fellowship. Every gardener will be responsible not only for their own plot, but also for pathways surrounding their plot. It will be a place where everyone participating can help each other,” Slagle said this week.
      What Will Gardners Grow?
      Plants suggested for the community garden include vegetables, herbs, flowers and small fruit plants for home consumption or donation to community food banks and other charities. All plants need to be maintained in a manner that they do not shade an adjoining garden or encroach upon pathways.
      Registration
      Registration for the Community Garden at Southern Stables opens Apr. 13 at the general offices of Boardman Park. Additional information can be obtained by calling 330-726-8105.
  65th Kiwanis Easter Egg Hunt  
  Wed., April 1 At Boardman Township Park:   March 31, 2015 Edition  
     Boardman's Kiwanis is proud to continue the tradition by organizing the 65th Easter Egg Hunt for the kindergarten children of the four elementary schools in Boardman. Boardman High School's Home Economics classes stuffed over 1300 eggs with candy.
      The eggs will be hidden throughout KidsTown by the Easter Bunny assisted by Boardman High School's Key Club.
  Township Fiscal Officer Will Seek Re-Election  
  March 26, 2015 Edition  
     Longtime Boardman Township Fiscal Officer William Leicht has announced he will seek re-election for a sixth term in November.
      Leicht was first elected to the office in 1995. During his tenure, the annual budget of the township has grown from some $11.3 million, to $17.5 million, and the number of employees has increased from 128 employees to 155 employees.
      Prior to his election as Township Fiscal Officer, Leicht served 12 years on the Boardman Board of Education.
      He has operated his own CPA firm for more than 35 years.
      During his lengthy tenure as Township Fiscal Officer, Boardman has never had a major finding in annual state audits.
      Leicht has led the township through a variety of leadership changes, particularly among Boards of Trustees and the post of Township Administrator.
      Under Leicht’s tenure, the Township Fiscal Office has introduced programs that strengthen systems for safeguarding township assets, and his investment policies over a four-year period earned some $502,101. In addition, annual motel tax collections have risen to nearly $290,000.
      He also instituted a program of ‘mini grants’ that have provided additional funding for the Boardman Police Department, including its Narcotics Enforcement Unit (NEU). Those grants have resulted in many arrests of criminals whose assets have been seized, and in part, redistributed back to the township.
      The current Fiscal Officer was instrumental in providing the initial language for House Bill 426 that was approved by the State Legislature in 1997. The measure allows townships to restrict monies for specific obligations.
      Leicht is also the custodian of township cemeteries. He is responsible for the upkeep, including the selling of lots and internments and maintenance for Boardman Cemetery located on Boardman-Poland Rd. and Zion Cemetery on Tippecanoe Rd.
      Leicht pledges to continue efforts to keep Boardman Township in a leadership role.
  Teen’s Quick Actions Prevented Her Home From Burning Down  
  March 26, 2015 Edition  
     Boardman Fire Chief Mark Pitzer praised the efforts of a 14-year-old girl who helped prevent her home from burning down on Thurs., Mar. 19. Pitzer made his remarks at the regular meeting of Boardman Trustees that was held on Monday at the Government Center.
      Near 7:00 p.m., firemen were sent to 631 Cathy Ann Dr. where they found a fire in an upstairs bedroom.
      Investigators believe the fire started in or near an electric baseboard heater and damage was set near $30,000.
      The home is owned by Allan and Maria Pavelko, who were not there at the time of the fire.
      “The couple’s 14-year-old daughter discovered the fire and knew what to do as a result of her elementary school fire safety education,” Chief Pitzer told Trustees.
      Lt. Jim McCreary said that the teenager thought she smelled smoke in the home and went upstairs to investigate the odor.
      “As she got to the second floor, the smoke detector began to sound and she put her hands on a bedroom door that she could feel was hot,” McCreary said, adding the teenager “immediately picked up her cat and left the house and called 9-1-1.”
      “Sarah said she knew from her elementary fire safety education to leave the home and call emergency services,” McCreary said.
      By not opening the door, she starved the fire of oxygen and kept the blaze from spreading to the rest of the structure.
      “Her quick notification to the fire department kept the fire to just one room,” McCreary noted.
  Bantam Phantoms Advance To National Tourney In Salt Lake City  
  March 19, 2015 Edition  
     The Youngstown Phantoms Bantam AA hockey team advanced to national competition with a 9-1 victory over Toledo Cherokee on Mar. 8 in the Ohio Bantam Championship game in Mentor.
      With the win, the Phantoms won the Ohio 14U Tier II state championship and advance to national championship play in Salt Lake City, Utah, beginning on Mar. 25.
      The Phantoms end their season ranked first in Ohio with a 37-13-6 record, while outscoring their opponents 223-103. The team is also ranked 50th of 1060 teams nationally
      Last year the team, the Bantam Phantoms were ranked 86th in the country, but went an 18-22-3 record for the season.
      “They were the youngest team in the league and their schedule taught them to play hard, dig deep, and keep focused, said Head Coach Bob Hawthorne.
      The team, comprised of 14-year-old boys from the Boardman-area and western Pennsylvania opened this season ranked #1 in of Ohio. They held onto this position and earned a spot in the Silver Sticks National Tournament in Port Huron, Mich. in January.
      Following that tournament, the Phantoms returned to competition in the Pittsburgh Amateur Hockey League.
      On Feb. 22, they team clinched the league title with a record of 16-2-2 against 11 other teams. The Phantoms recorded 86 goals during the season in league play and also had the lowest number of penalty minutes.
      Coach Hawthorne has played hockey all his life, most notably in his youth in upstate New York and Canada. Hawthorne participated as a player at the U.S. Olympic camp for the 1980 ‘Miracle” Team. He has served as a level 4 USA Hockey coach for 36 years and has earned numerous honors and awards. He has also been a USA Hockey official for over 30 years.
      The Salt Lake City event will be his fourth appearance at the national tournament with a youth hockey team. Assistant coaches are Zach Skook, Jamie Hamilton, and Taylor Cera.
      Rostered players include: Drew Murphy (A), Stone Elias, Tallon Price, Colin Frost, Bo Gray (A), Devin Whitaker, Danny LaFontaine, Michael Fetsko, Vince Hepola and Rob Stanko of the Boardman area. Western Pennsylvania players include Darrin Smith (C), Max Hamilton (A), Brayden Forsyth, Cole Luther, Richie Phipps, RJ Pozzuto and Bradley Ryniawec.
      The team practices at the Ice Zone on McClurg Rd. in Boardman.
  38th Annual Maple Syrup Festival, Rotary Breakfast Set At Boardman Park, Mar. 21-22, Mar. 28-29  
  March 19, 2015 Edition  
     Spring is just around the corner and Boardman Park will hold its 38th annual Maple Syrup Festival and Boardman Rotary Pancake Breakfast, on Saturdays and Sundays, Mar. 21-22, and Mar. 28-Mar. 29, from 8:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m.
      Maple Syrup Festival outdoor activities include walking to Chester Long Pavilion where the Park staff will demonstrate how Maple trees are tapped, the sap collected, and then boiled down to make syrup.
      Boy Scout Troop 60 and Civil War re-enactors will also provide demonstration. Hay wagon rides will also be available.
      Inside the Lariccia Family Community Center there will be displays presented by the Boardman Historical Society, Western Reserve Woodcarvers and Mahoning County Watercolor Society. Maple syrup will be for sale and Troop 60 will hold a basket raffle.
      Rotary pancake and sausage breakfasts will be served-up for $6/person, with children 6 and under free. Proceeds from the breakfast stay in the community and support the many projects of the Boardman Rotary. Tickets can be purchased at the door.
      For more information, call the Park Office at 330-726-8107.
  Easter Seals Run Set For Sat., Apr. 25 At Lariccia Center In Boardman Park  
  March 13, 2015 Edition  
     Easter Seals of Mahoning, Trumbull and Columbiana Counties will host their annual 5K Walk/Run to Make the First Five Count at Lariccia Family Community Center in Boardman Park on Sat., Apr. 25. Registration will begin at 9:00 a.m. with the walk/run at 9:30 a.m. Participation is $25 per person, with an early-bird registration fee of $20 due by Apr. 10. Participants can register online at www.mtc.easterseals.com or www.gopherarun.com. The first 150 to pre-register receive an official event t-shirt.
      “Each year one out of every five children begins the school year behind his or her peers,” Jennifer Roberts, Easter Seals marketing and events coordinator said. “Through our Make the First Five Count walk/run we not only raise critical funding for our services but raise awareness of the importance of the first five years of a child’s life.”
      From infants to aging adults, Easter Seals provides a range of services to those with disabilities or special needs including: Aquatic, Physical, Occupational and Speech Therapy, Audiology & Hearing Services, Private Duty Nursing & Aide Services, Skill Development Center for adults with Autism, Adult Day Services, Congregate Meal Sites and Home Delivered Meals. To learn more about the programs and services offered visit www.mtc.easterseals.com.
  Veteran Policeman Honored For Life-Saving Efforts  
  March 12, 2015 Edition  
Officer Robert Spatar
     In the morning hours of Aug. 12, 2014, near 7:00 a.m., Boardman police patrolman Robert Spatar was on routine patrol in the area of Victory Christian Assembly, 8590 Hitchcock Rd. when he saw a car in an otherwise empty parking lot.
      As he drove close to the Honda, he observed the car’s engine was running and a tube was connected to the tailpipe, stretching into the rear seat area of the car.
      Officer Spatar, who has served Boardman for 16 years, got out of his cruiser and found a man in the rear seat of the vehicle, apparently ingesting fumes from the tube.
      He immediately called for fire department emergency medical personnel and pulled the man out of the car.
      The actions of the policeman saved the life of a 59-year-old Deer Path Dr. man.
      “Great, I can’t even do this right,” the man exclaimed after being pulled out of the Honda.
      Officer Spatar learned the man had medical issues and that apparently been in the church parking lot for no more than 30 minutes.
      An ambulance was summoned to the scene and the man was taken to a local hospital.
      Meeting on Monday night, Boardman Trustees recognized the life saving actions of Ptl. Spatar.
      “Discovering a man lying in the back seat of a running car, in danger of carbon monoxide poisoning...Officer Spatar immediately removed the man to fresh air and summoned medical help,” Trustees said in a special proclamation that was presented to the police officer.
      In commenting on Officer Spatar’s actions, Boardman Police Chief described the veteran policeman as unassuming, and always on time for his job.
      “We often receive compliments for the actions of our officers,” Chief Nichols said, adding “I can tell you Officer Spatar is often praised by the public for his work. He is consistent and a really good police officer.”
      Pictured: VETERAN BOARDMAN POLICE OFFICER PTL. ROBERT SPATAR, at left, accepts a proclamation recognizing his life-saving efforts of Aug., 12, 2014 from Boardman Trustee Thomas Costello, at right, during Monday’s meeting of the township board of trustees.
  Marge Hartman’s Paws Town At Boardman Park Seeking New Members For 2015  
  March 12, 2015 Edition  
     Looking for your pet to be healthier and happier this year?
      Spring is on the way and it’s a perfect time for you and your dog to enjoy the benefits of the outdoors by joining the Marge Hartman’s Paws Town Dog Park at Boardman Park.
      Whether you and your dog like to exercise, socialize or just enjoy the fresh air, you can do so without concern at Paws Town Dog Park. Since Paws Town first opened it has been Boardman Park’s goal to provide a fun, social and safe environment where dogs, both big and small, are able to play off leash.
      As a members-only facility, Paws Town requires that all dogs that use the park are vaccinated and registered with Mahoning County. Also, a double gate entry system allows members to unleash their dog after entering but before interacting with other dogs.
      The dog park is well maintained, and caretakers patrol the area several times a day and are just a phone call away. The 3.25 acre park has separate fenced in areas for large and small dogs, water fountains, a dog wash station, benches, small shade trees, and dog waste bags.
      One year memberships to Paws Town are available for 2015-2016. Memberships will be valid from date of purchase through Mar. 31, 2016.
      Memberships for Boardman Residents will be $40 for one dog and $10 for each additional dog. Non-Boardman resident fee will be $65 for one dog and $10 for each additional dog. Membership packets can be picked up at the Boardman Park Office, Mondays thru Fridays, or online at boardmanpark.com.
      One day passes are available for $5. Dog owners must bring their dog’s shot records on their veterinarian’s letterhead, rabies and county tag numbers.
      Person who would like to purchase a tree, in honor of or in memory of their dog, to be planted in Paws Town, can pick-up forms at the Park Office.
      For more information on Paws Town call the Park office at 330-726-8105.
  CRWC Quarter Auction June 4  
  March 12, 2015 Edition  
     The Canfield Republican Women’s Club will hold their 2nd Annual Quarter Auction on Thurs., June 4, at Drake’s Landing, 2177 Western Reserve Rd., Canfield.
      Bring your quarters or buy them there and get ready to win fantastic items! Items featured will include patriotic items, wine baskets, antinques and more. The auction is paired with hors d’oeuvres and a wine taste from area winery’s.
      There will also be a 50/50 raffle and a handgun raffle courtesy of Expert Outfitters. Ticket donation is $25 per person.
      For tickets or more information call Holly at 330-531-0120, email crwcmail@gmail.com or send check payable to CRWC to PO Box 561, Canfield, Oh 44406 and tickets will be mailed.
  Lifetime Of Service For Boardman Park’s Director  
  March 5, 2015 Edition  
     Boardman Park’s executive director, Daniel N. Slagle Jr., 64, has spent all of his adult life working at Boardman Park---a career that has spanned some 43 years.
      During that time, Slagle has guided the park through a host of changes.
      Remember when Boardman High School played their varsity baseball games in the park, where the Maag Pavilion now stands?
      Remember the ice skating rink at the park?
      Remember the old, tiny cramp headquarters of the park?
      Remember when Chuck Schafer developed Boardman Little League and installed two new fields (with grass infields and stands?
      Remember the first Boardman Rotary Oktoberfest?
      Under Slagle, Boardman Park has been transformed into one of the State of Ohio’s most-visited community parks, upwards of 500,000 people a year.
      In recent years, the park rings down the year with an ever-growing display of holiday lighting that brings thousand of people driving through the park.
      Vestiges of Boardman past abound in the park, most notably with the development of a “Historical Village,” including the Detchon House that now houses the extensive collection of the Boardman Historical Society.
      Slagle was instrumental in moving Olde St. James Church to Boardman Park. The old church, oldest such edifice east of the Mississippi, now graces the entrance of the park.
      For all the changes at the park during Slagle’s 43 year career, and in fact for all of the park’s 66 years, consider this---
      Boardman Park is still funded by a 1-mil levy, the same millage that created the park in 1948.
      “Of all the things I am most proud of, we have been able to build the park into what it is today on virtually the same funding we had when the park was created,” Slagle observed this week.
      He noted all the improvements could not have been made without strong community involvement.
      There were the hundreds of people who joined as volunteers to build Kids Town; the Tony Lariccia family provided major funding to build a grand community center.
      “There are so many people who have helped create the park,” Slagle said, mentioning William F. Maag, Martha Roepke, Tom Masters Sr., C.R. Smith Jr. and Joseph Sylvester Sr. and the Boardman Rotary Club as among the many who have provided support over the years.
      Slagle recalled the development of the Maag Outdoor Arts Theater with some amazement.
      “One day a community resident, Martha Roepke, walked into my office and said she wanted to do something in honor of William F. Maag (who donated the original acreage to form the park),” Slagle said. She provided the major funding to build the theater and Jose Sylvester Sr. donated much of the labor.
      “We were still short of funds and I began researching potential donors. One day, I called Clarence Smith, whom I had never met before, and told him of the situation.
      “Right on the spot he pulled out his checkbook and wrote a check that covered the final construction costs.”
      “I love Boardman Park. The rewards I have received serving the community and developing the park district have filled my lifetime,” Slagle observed.
      Slagle is a life-long resident of Boardman Township, and a 1969 graduate of Boardman High School. He was an avid baseball player throughout his youth, pitching a no-hitter and earning all-star recognition.
      At the early age of 12; he learned the responsibility of work and continued working numerous part-time jobs through high school. Upon graduation, he worked at the Youngstown Sheet & Tube Co. as a loader in the Butt Weld Shipping Department, which for a young suburbanite was a very enlightening experience.
      While working at Youngstown Sheet & Tube, he enrolled at Youngstown State University, pursuing a degree in Biology/Pre-Forestry.
      In 1972, he started his career at Boardman Township Park as a groundskeeper. While working at the park, he earned an associate’s degree in Natural Science from YSU and continued his academic career at YSU, earning a bachelor of science degree in Combined Science.
      Slagle was promoted to Assistant Superintendent of Boardman Park in 1988, with the primary responsibility of planning and overseeing the maintenance of the grounds and facilities. During his tenure as assistant superintendent he developed an extensive grounds maintenance and landscape programs, which included a comprehensive display of annual and perennial flowers, and a long-term tree planting and maintenance program, with emphasis on the preservation and re-establishment of native hardwoods. The realization of these programs has resulted in a widely acclaimed recognition as a Park that is beautifully landscaped and as the “Green Oasis” of the community.
      The Board of Park Commissioners appointed Slagle as the Superintendent/Clerk in June, 1992. His first project was to research and develop the first-ever master plan for the Park District.
      In the more than two decades since, 21 major improvements have evolved from the master plan, with a value of over $6.5 million.
      “The primary funding, 80 per cent, for these improvements has been donations of volunteer time, materials, and money, coupled with government grants,” Slagle notes.
      Since his appointment in 1992, Slagle has operated and maintained the park with a budget that is primarily funded by the same two 35-year old real property tax levies (three-tenths mills and sixth-tenths mills).
      In 2000, changes in the Ohio Revised Code, created the position of executive Director for a township park district and subsequently, the Park Board appointed Slagle as the executive director/clerk, acknowledging his exemplary service and dedication to Boardman Park over his tenure as superintendent
      Throughout his career at the Park District, he has developed and managed balanced budgets, and has increased the carryover cash balance from $47,000, in 1992 to $455,000 for fiscal year 2014, without the benefit of any additional real property tax levies. This was accomplished by developing internal revenue streams, e.g. program sponsorships, fees for the use of park facilities and successfully securing grants and private donations to subsidize capital improvements.
      Slagle, with the support of donations and grants improved the facilities making them more attractive and marketable, thereby increasing their popularity and subsequently generating substantial revenue. Currently, facility revenue represents approximately 20 per cent of the Park District’s annual income.
      The realization of the Master Plan has resulted in a unique and diverse footprint of recreational facilities and programs. This footprint has made Boardman Park one of the most popular recreational areas in the Mahoning Valley.
      In 2000, Boardman Park was selected as the host site from a four-county area by the Ohio Department of Natural Resources and the Office of Governor, when then Gov. Robert Taft awarded $560,000 in NatureWorks and Land and Water Conservation Fund grants to 13 public entities, with Boardman Park receiving a lions share of $131,122, for its West Quadrant Improvement project.
      Governor Taft in his presentation remarked “Boardman Park is one of the finest small parks in the state.”
      Slagle is a member of the Ohio Parks and Recreation Association and the National Recreation and Park Association. His civic involvement includes---Director and Past President of the Boardman Civic Association, member of the Boardman Rotary Club, past president of the Kiwanis Club of Uptown Youngstown; a co-chair of the Boardman Township Bicentennial Committee; past vestry member and chairman of the properties committee, St. John’s Episcopal Church; past president and life member Men’s Garden Club of Youngstown; Mahoning Valley Landscaping and Nursery Association.
      In 2000, he was awarded the Boardman Civic Association’s Community Service Award.
      In July, 1987, appropriately, he married wife Marilou in July of 1987 in St. James Meeting House in the park. They have two sons, Daniel, III (Dewey), and Tom, both avid backpackers, who hiked trails in 12 national parks last summer.
      When he is not working, Dan enjoys time with his family, shopping and landscaping with his lovely wife, sporting events and movies with his sons. He is an enthusiastic gardener, enjoys reading and photography.
      Boardman Park Under Slagle
       •Master Plan - Initiated, researched, designed, drafted, and successfully implemented the 1992 Master Plan for the park and the community it serves, which resulted in approximately $6.5 million in capital improvements, with the majority of the funds (approximately 80%) necessary for its success generated by the following revenue streams: local, state and federal grants; donations and sponsorships from individuals, businesses, and foundations; and the balance (approximately 20%) from the park’s capital budget. The completion of the Master Plan fostered the following recreational assets for the community:
       •Kids’ Town Creative Playground, Robert Leathers Community Built Concept constructed by more than 3000 volunteers.
       •Tot’s Town Playground, community built, initiated by local Realtor, John Burgan.
       •Maag Outdoor Arts Theatre.
       •Elton Beard Family Cabin, funded by an ODNR Nature Works Grant. Major contributor, Elton and Christina Beard.
       •Kenneth Hofmaster Pavilion, community built concept.
       •Hike & Bike Trail.
       •Main Septic system that eliminated an antiquated on-site Leech Bed system and the connection to a public sanitary system at the Shops at Boardman Park. Major contributors, David Handel and Chuck Bishara.
       •West Quadrant Improvements Project that included the Thomas C. Masters Pavilion w/restrooms, a 300-car lighted parking lot, and landscaping funded by a LWCF grant.
       •Two sand volleyball courts.
       •Practice tennis wall.
       •Acquisition of 35 acres of greenspace that increased the size of Boardman Park to 227 acres, with 40 acres of Open Space property located in seven areas of Boardman Township.
       •Renovation of Kids’ Town Playground with plastic lumber made from recycled materials, funded by a Green Team recycling grant.
       •Exterior renovation of St. James Meeting House.
       •Veterans Memorial project developed in conjunction with Boardman Trustee Elaine Mancini.
       •Historical Village Septic System that eliminated an on-site leech bed/holding tank system and the connection to a public sanitary system at the Shops at Boardman Park.
       •West Quadrant Phase II, including the Lariccia Family Bocce Pavilion, ADA accessible playground and the asphalt paving of the 300-car parking lot, funded by an ODNR NatureWorks Grant and ODNR Scrap Tire Grant for Paving of Parking Lot. Major contributor, Anthony Lariccia.
       •The Lariccia Family Community Center Phase I, the renovation and expansion of the 33-year old Community Center. Major contributors, Anthony Lariccia, Boardman Rotary Club, Kennedy Family Trust/SJK Trust, Helen Stambaugh.
       •Exterior renovation of the Oswald Detchon House, a local historic landmark.
       •North Trail project, an 8-foot wide paved ADA accessible walkway that travels parallel to the main drive in the park and connects all park facilities, as well as connecting to existing nature trail system, four miles of trails, funded by an ODNR Recreational Trail Grant
       •Renovation and expansion of the Georgeanna Parker Activity Center.
       •Marge Hartman’s Paws Town at Boardman Park, developed in conjunction with a non-profit committee, Friend of Paws Town, Inc., organized by Boardman Township Administrator Jason Loree and his wife, Abbey that led to the development of a 3.25-acre dog park, designed for dogs to exercise and play off-leash in a controlled environment under the supervision of their owners
       •Departmentalized maintenance operations, delineating daily duties and responsibilities; which resulted in more efficient and effective operations.
       •Web site and online reservations.
       •Military concerts and fireworks. Upon the completion of the Maag Outdoor Arts Theatre, initiated and established the annual Military Band Concerts and fireworks displays. He encouraged and eventually convinced the U.S. Army Field Band and Soldiers Chorus to perform at the park for the first time in 1996, and nurtured the relationship over the years to where the park is now part of their Summer schedule. Additionally, Slagle developed a relationship with the B.J. Alan Fireworks Co., headed by Boardman native Bruce Zoldan, where they are now one of the park’s annual sponsors.
       •Haunted Hay Rides and Family Night events.
       •Pepsi Vending and Donations. Under Slagle, Boardman Park initiated and implemented the placement of Pepsi vending machines within the park as a new revenue stream. As part of the Vending Machine agreement, Pepsi donated to Capital Projects (Maag Theatre, $6,000) and Kids’ Town awnings ($3,000) and a $1,000 annual sponsorship.
      Slagle initiated and negotiated the purchase of approximately three acres of Ohio Edison property adjacent to the Nevada Ave. substation in order to establish the Township Compost Site in a joint effort with former Boardman Township Road Superintendent Gary Dawson. During the process, Slagle discovered that a crucial piece of property measuring 50 feet by 500 feet that was part of the Davidson Family estate.
      Slagle researched the family records and found heirs to the estate living in Washington State, and with the help of Atty. Jack Amstutz, the heirs transferred ownership to Boardman Park for a nominal amount of money.
      Dan Slagle’s tenure in a leadership role at Boardman Park began when Boardman Trustees learned a former park director, John Holzbach, spent tens of thousands of public dollars to create his own, private nature library. Holzbach was quickly ousted upon the discovery, and Slagle took over.
      He has had a remarkable run leading the Boardman Park District and says to this day he has been fortunate to serve under Boards of Park Commissioners who have displayed sincere concerns for the park and the preservation of greenspace in the township.
      In 1972, when Slagle began his career at Boardman Park, serving as commissioners were Aty. Frank Mastriana, Atty. George Economus and Phil Prosser. Others who served on the park board during Slagle’s tenure are Tom Masters, Janie Jenkins, Mark Luke, Jack Russell, Gwen Smith, Dr. Robert Johnson and current commissioners Joyce Mistovich, Trent Cailor and Josh Zarlenga.
      “Most importantly, Boardman Park is about our community,” Slagle said this week. All of the improvements during his lengthy tenure have been the result of community involvement and gives the park a unique niche, where vounteerism and donations played such a key role in the development of Boardman Park that still operates essentially on the same funding as when it was created more than six decades ago.
     
  Boardman High School Marching Band Will Lead 37th Annual St. Pat’s Parade  
  March 5, 2015 Edition  
     The 37th Annual Mahoning Valley St. Patrick’s Day Parade will be held Sun., Mar. 15 beginning at 1:00 p.m. at Market St. and Roche Way and will proceed north on Market St. from to Southwoods Ave.
      “Boardman has proven to be an excellent venue for the Valley’s biggest parade. Sponsors of the Parade this year will again be the Mahoning Valley Irish Organizations, WFMJ TV-21 and the Vindicator. We are inviting you to join the Parade and 25,000 to 30,000 of the valley’s finest spectators to celebrate this family tradition,” says Casey Malone, parade director.
      The theme of the Parade this year is “For the Love of Erin”. Trophies for Best of Parade and Best Irish Theme will be awarded as well as 1st and 2nd Place. Trophies for Best Themed Float, Best Band, Best Pipe Band, Best Drum Line, Best Marching Unit, Best Novelty Unit and Best Color Guard. The trophies are awarded at the Post Parade Party held immediately following the parade at the Operating Engineers Hall on McClurg Road.
      Grand Marshal for this year’s parade is Dick Coughlin. The Ockerman Award recipient is Tom Eich, our Lord Mayor of Kilkenny is Boardman Police Chief Jack Nichols and the entire Boardman Township Police Department, The Cleary Award will honor Terry Brennan.
      The 2015 Parade will be dedicated to the memory of Past-President Timothy Mulholland.
      Leading the parade will be the Shamrock Balloon and the Boardman Spartan High School Marching Band, directed by Thomas Ruggieri.
      The Edward J. Reese Family Reviewing Stand will be near the north end of the march and located in front of Johnny’s Restaurant. Master of Ceremonies at the reviewing stand will be Casey Malone. The Shaffer Brothers will perform at the Post Parade Party where embattled Youngstown Mayor John McNally will serve as master of ceremonies.
      There will be seven bands in this year’s parade including the South Range Marching Band, the Ursuline Marching Band, YSU Pete and Penny and the YSU Band, the Steel City Ambassadors, and the Red Hackle Pipes and Drums.
      There will also be novelty units including the Aut Mori Grotto Clowns, the Captain Thomas W. Patton Camp 2021 Sons of the Confederate Veterans, the Llucky Llamas 4-H Club, the Mahoning Valley Olde Car Club, the Beaver Creek Horseman’s Association, the Struthers Little Wildcats and the Youngstown Phantom’s Hockey Team.
      All totled, there wil be approximately 150 units in the this years parade.
  Gretta Knows...... ...enjoy the season you’re in  
  March 5, 2015 Edition  
     Woof to you my friends! My dog senses are heightened as I am picking up a little discontentment over the snow and cold temperatures you have been receiving. Many of my heavenly dog pals up here have barked, that they would trade places with you for a day to just be able to feel the snow under their paws, to run and jump and bite the snow one more time! I remember how much easier it was to see the squirrels against the snow, and how much I yelped to go out and try once again to catch that little guy. I never gave up and each time I was released I’d end up at the base of a tree and that squirrel would be way up high on a branch looking down at me, probably snickering that I failed to catch him once again.
      The clocks will change this weekend and spring will be here before you know it. Each season has a beauty all its own, and yes troubles of its own. So often we keep focused on the rough spots and forget to notice the beauty each season has to give. Kinda like life. I have observed that humans seem to allow the business of every day life to overwhelm them and they often neglect to notice the beauty of each season they are in.
      In Ecclesiastes 3:1-8 we are reminded that for everything there is a season, and a time for every season under heaven. There is a shield up here in doggy heaven that hangs on one of the large oak trees. It is edged in sparkling gold, and it portrays these words from Ecclesiastes, for every dog and cat that passes by. It’s a reminder that God makes everything beautiful in its own time.
      One thing that is for sure is that us dogs take the moments as they come. We are very accepting and don’t allow little things to stand in the way of our joy. We find the greatest happiness in the small things. If you could see inside a dogs mind you would know that we are rather simple in how we look at you, our caregivers, and the world around us.
      Dogs live in the now. We only care about the relationship we have with our masters, what’s in our hearts, not our egos.
      Dogs are always there for their masters. They will always be at your side. They love you unconditionally.
      Dogs don’t care if their dog bed is the most expensive or just a blanket on the floor or that their master’s car is the biggest and newest, hey riding in a car with the windows down is what matters! The times we remember and cherish are the moments spent sharing love. Love is all that matters.
      Dogs don’t hold back their love until they know if you love them. We just give our love and don’t worry about what we might get back in return. Although, a dog will never refuse a biscuit.
      Dogs can be left alone all day, even neglected but will always forgive and accept a belly rub without question. Time is not measured, we can’t tell time, the quality of time is what matters most to us.
      Dogs are excited and joyful whenever their masters come home after a long day, when you want to go for a walk, when you want to play ball, or even if you want to just lay on the couch and watch TV, we’ll be there.
      Well, I see a group of my heavenly pals coming up the meadow path. It’s time for me to go and play and let my fur down! I’ll leave you with one more thought, “Wag more, Bark less”!
      As I join my heavenly pals, our bodies wiggle uncontrollably with the joy of seeing each other once again. We all take off running through the meadow, our noses in the air....and as always our tails are ‘awaggin.
  Annual St. Patrick’s Day Parade  
  Grand Marshal Coughlin:   February 26, 2015 Edition  
     When the 35th annual St. Patrick’s Day Parade runs its course down Market St. on Sun., Mar. 15 at 1:00 p.m., leading the ensemble of floats, crazies, marchers and politicians will be Grand Marshal Dick Coughlin.
      Coughlin is no stranger to the St. Pat’s Parade. He is a past recipient of the Bill Ockerman Award that recognizes outstanding contributions to the parade.
      A retired mail carrier, Coughlin is know widely known as the owner of the House of Erin, 5136 Southern Blvd. in Boardman. The House of Erin was first opened in 1995 and is the area’s only, authentic Irish gift shop.
      Also in the lead positions in this year’s parade will be Boardman Police Chief Jack Nichols, as Lord Mayor of Kilkenny, while Tom Eich is this year’s Ockerman Award recipient; and the Cleary Awards will honor Terry Brennan.
      The 37th annual parade, recognized as one of the largest St. Pat’s parades in Ohio, will be dedicated to the memory of past president Timothy Mulholland.
      Master of ceremonies for the event will be local television personality Casey Malone.
      Joyce Kale-Pesta is president of the Mahoning Valley St. Patrick’s Day Parade Committee. Other members of the committee include Malone, director; Robb Kale, treasurer; Sharon Sabatka, secretary; and Jason Calinger, head marshal.
      Parade committee members are Tom Butler, Terry Brennan, Joe Calinger, Pat Chrystal, Marilyn Carroll, Julaine Gilmartin, James ‘Muggsy’ McGuinness, Dolly Milick, John Sheridan, Mary Jane Venitti and Grant Williams.
      Serving as parade marshals are Jack Filak, Bill Leskovec, Paul Dolak, Jason Calinger, Ted Stipanovich, Tony Barbessi, Tim Philibin, Anthony Sabatka, Terry Coyle, Mike Cook, Brian Kelly, Matt Hlebak, Joe Illencik III, Doug Sherl, Joe Illencik Sr., Mike Timlin, Gus Gustafson, Lenny Sefcik, Ed Maloney, Jim Doran, Ray Kelly IV, Tom Eich, Tim Kelly, John Eich, Anthony Wanio and Rob Pappas.
      The St. Patrick’s Parade will begin at the Boardman Township Government Center, Market St. at Roche Way, to Market St. at Southwoods Dr. Annually, upwards of 20,000 to 25,000 people line the roadway to watch the event. Theme of this year’s parade is For The Love of Erin.
  BHS Winter Concert Mar. 4  
  February 26, 2015 Edition  
     The Winter Concert of the Boardman High School Bands will be held Wed., Mar. 4, at 7:00 p.m. at the Boardman Performing Arts Center.
      The concert will feature the combined Freshman/Concert Band, Symphonic Band, and Wind Ensemble as well as the Percussion Ensemble and Reverse Osmosis (RVO). Musical selections will include: “Willy Wonka and the Chocolate Factory,” “Oye Como Va,” “Pevensey Castle,” “Legends in the Mist,” Arabesque,” “Light Cavalry Overture,” and “St. Louis Blues.”
      The Percussion Ensemble will open the concert with “Jazz Variants,” a piece the group performed at the recent Ohio Music Educators Association Solo and Ensemble competition. The band’s newest ensemble, RVO, is a sax/brass/percussion octet inspired by a New York subway and street performing group. RVO will perform a sax quartet piece called “Fallout.”
      Also performing at the concert will be senior soloist Francesca Clause on oboe. She will be accompanied by the Wind Ensemble as she performs two movements of the Oboe Concerto in C minor by Alessandro Marcello.
      Miss Clause is a student of Loyal B. Mould who was one a band director in the Boardman Schools many years ago. In addition to being the principal chair oboist in the BHS Wind Ensemble and Symphony Orchestra, Miss Clause played clarinet in the Spartan Marching Band and Theater Orchestra, and tenor sax in Jazz Ensemble 3. She will pursue a degree in music at Youngstown State University in the fall.
      The concert will allow the Symphonic Band and Wind Ensemble to perform the music they are preparing for OMEA District 5 Large Group Adjudicated Event. High school concert bands from northeast Ohio will perform three selections for judges, then play a piece they have never seen before for a separate judge. The judges issue ratings based on five levels of performance criteria. Boardman Bands consistently earn superior and excellent ratings each year. The Wind Ensemble is one of only two groups in District 5 entering in Class AA which requires the most difficult music. Symphonic Band performs in Class C. The event takes place at Howland High School on Fri., Mar. 6
      Donations of $3/adults and $2/students will be accepted at the door for the Mar. 4 concert. Senior citizens will be admitted free of charge.
      The Boardman bands are under the direction of Thomas M. Ruggieri, Timothy P. Tuite, Steven C. Chambers, and Michael J. Shevock.
  Goodwill Antique and Collectible Auction  
  March 6 at Stambaugh Auditorium:   February 26, 2015 Edition  
     The Junior Group of Goodwill Antique and Collectible Auction will be held at Stambaugh Auditorium on Fri., Mar. 6. Items will include three sets of boxing gloves autographed by James ‘Buster’ Douglas, Ray ‘Boom Boom’ Mancini and Kelly ‘The Ghost Pavlik, a Bernie Kosar autographed Cleveland Browns football, a Jeff Wilkins and Paul McFadden autographed YSU football, a Jim Tressel and Bo Pelini autographed YSU football, and a John Cooper autographed OSU football.
      The Friday evening gala features a jewelry sale, live auction of new items, Chinese auction, silent auction, a vintage clothing sale, gift card tree raffle and basket raffle. Other items to be auctioned off include a ride on the Goodyear Blimp, Ohio State football tickets, an Ohio State pub table set from Gasser Chair, Disney tickets, a tandem skydiving jump and more.
      Tickets are $25/person and available until Mon., Mar. 2 at www.goodwillyoungstown.org or at the Goodwill offices on Belmont Avenue in Liberty.
      For additional information contact Goodwill’s marketing department at 330-759-7921 ext. 1207.
  Boardman Lions Club Night At The Races  
  Mar. 7 at Operating Engineers Hall:   February 26, 2015 Edition  
      The Boardman Lions Club will hold its 17th annual Night at the Races Fundraiser Mar.7, 2015 at the Operating Engineers Hall on McClurg Rd., in Boardman.
      The $10 entrance fee includes an all-you-can-eat buffet sponsored by several area restaurants, beer and a variety of non-alcoholic beverages.
      Doors will open at 6:00 p.m. with races beginning at 7:00. Tickets can be purchased at the door the night of the event.
      The evening will also feature a Basket Raffle and Silent Auction with baskets donated from a variety of area restaurants, specialty shops and events.
      Proceeds from this fundraiser will be used to support the following projects: The 7th Annual Coats for Kids Project, Eye Glass Purchase and Eye Exams for needy Boardman Children and Adults, Maintenance of Flower Gardens for Boardman Welcome Signs, Two Scholarships for Boardman Seniors and the Purchase of Trees for 4th Grade Students.
      To learn more about the Boardman Lions Club and Night at the Races, please visit BoardmanLions.com
  Moliterno Will Seek Third Term As Trustee  
  February 19, 2015 Edition  
     Boardman Township Trustee Larry Moliterno will seek re-election to a third, four-year term in Nov., 2015, he announced this week. He was first elected to office in Nov., 2007.
      “Following the strong encouragement of Boardman residents, I am honored to seek another term as Boardman Township Trustee,” Moliterno said. “I want to continue to work diligently with my colleagues to ensure a strong Boardman for the next generation of our residents and their families.”
      In making his announcement, Moliterno noted that beginning with his first term in 2008, he focused on his pledge to restore confidence in Boardman and its leadership.
      With the election of Trustees Brad Calhoun and Tom Costello in 2010, all three trustees, along with Fiscal Officer Bill Leicht, have worked as a team to fulfill their commitment to the community under the banner of “Do what is best for Boardman.’
      Moliterno cites many accomplishments during his tenure as trustee:
       •Initiated and maintained an integrated strategic plan for Boardman Township.
       •Initiated utility aggregation programs saving residents dollars on their gas and electric bills.
       •Created the ABC Water District that could lead to the completion of many infrastructure projects.
       •Re-established a strong relationship with Boardman Local Schools and Boardman Park.
       •Instituted Community Day, to held and create a sense of community pride.
       •Established a joint paving contract with local communities, saving dollars
       •Restored Police staffing at the police department as well as the Juvenile Diversion program
       •Helped to support the Boardman Local School Television Network as a community resource.
       •Re-established involvement in the Mahoning County Land Bank.
       •Initiated a demolition program to proactively address an emerging blight issue.
       •Developed a landlord registration program to protect tenants and improve property values.
       •Restructured the Zoning Department to include planning initiatives such as a rezoning process that will protect the integrity of local neighborhoods.
       •Embraced a culture of collaboration, teamwork and transparency essential to ensure effective and efficient local government
      Moliterno, who is CEO of Merdian Services, will host a campaign kickoff event on Wed., Mar. 11 from 4:30 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. at the Holiday Inn in Boardman.
     
  Boardman PTSA Art Winners  
  February 19, 2015 Edition  
     The Boardman Parent Teacher Student Association (PTSA) announces the winners of its annual Reflections Contest. Theme for this year’s contest was “The world would be a better place if . . . .”
      Students were able to enter in the following categories: Visual Arts, Photography, Film Production, Dance Choreography, and Literature. High school winners were as follows: Visual Arts -- first place, Makenzie Packo; second place, Anna Sherman; third place, Nadine Gabriel; honorable mention, Annabelle Adkins. Photography -- first place, Erica Shirilla; second place, Molly Slater; third place, Mariah Ricciardi; honorable mention, Madeline Hubert. Film Production -- first place, Genesis Speller. Dance Choreography -- first place, Hannah Brewer. Literature -- first place, John Anzevino; second place, Bryan Kordupel; third place, Briana Lytle; honorable mention, Maria Serra.
  Mooney Sets YES Fest  
  February 19, 2015 Edition  
     On Thurs., Mar. 5, Cardinal Mooney High School will hold their 2nd annual YES Fest. YES Fest promotes the idea of living a life that is drug and alcohol free. Students will listen to two different speakers, as well as talk with different local agencies on how they can volunteer to help out in the community. The Yes Fest will begin at 8:15 a.m. and conclude at 10:45 a.m. Students will meet in the auditorium and then go to the gymnasium to meet with the different vendors.
  YWCA Dance-A-Thon  
  February 19, 2015 Edition  
     The YWCA of Youngstown is seeking participants for a Dance-a-thon to be held from 4 to 9 p.m. Sat., Mar. 7 at the YWCA of Youngstown, 25 W. Rayen Ave.
      Two people or more may form a team. Also needed are dance groups interested in performing. Individuals and spectators are welcome, as well.
      The cost is $15 per person for team captain and members, $20 for individuals and $8 for spectators. Team Captains must be age 18 or older. The event is open to those age 8 and older.
      Included in the event are door prizes, themed music, prizes, Dance-a-thon T-shirts, goodie bags, refreshments, a best dressed team prize, and basket raffles. Four one-hour nonstop dance sessions will be interspersed with performances by professional and cultural dance groups.
      Visit ywca.org/youngstown for more information. Call 330-746-6361, ext. 112 to register or for details. The deadline to register is Feb. 24.
     
  School Board Updates Policy On Food Standards  
  ‘The school district encourages students to form healthy eating habits’:   February 5, 2015 Edition  
     Meeting last week, the Boardman Board of Education updated its Food Sale Standards policy first approved in May, 2006.
      The policy says under its food service program, the [school district] “encourages students to form healthy eating habits by governing the types of food and beverages sold in the schools, and the time and place at which each type of food and beverage is sold.”
      Those standards, according to the school board, are based on the following guidelines:
      The types of food and beverages sold in the schools are determined by their potential to contribute significantly to the:
       •Daily nutritional needs of students, consistent with the guidelines established by the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA),
       •Provisions of the Boardman Local School District’s student wellness program, and
       •Nutritional guidelines established by state law.
      The Food Sale Standards requires that a licensed dietitian, registered dietetic technician or a certified/credentialed school nutrition specialist must be initially consulted to assist the food supervisor in drafting for board adoption a plan
       •For complying with and enforcing the nutritional standards governing the types of food and beverages that may be sold on school premises in compliance with state law, and
       •Specifying the time and place each type of food or beverage may be sold.
      The Food Sale Standards requires the time of day and place for the sale of food and beverages to students “must be consistent with the nutrient intake needs and eating patterns of students and compatible with class schedules.”
      According to the policy, the following restrictions are enforced for non-breakfast-lunch food and beverage sales:
       •Foods and beverages that do not meet the nutritional standards established by the Boardman Local School District in accordance with USDA guidelines may not be sold during the school day. The school board reserves the right to totally restrict the sale of non-nutritional food and beverages in vending machines.
       •Bake sales and other school fund-raising activities involving food and beverage items may not be held during the school day.
      The Food Sale Standards policy requires that annually, the food services supervision will review and recommend to the school board the types of foods and beverages to be sold as part of the school breakfast and lunch programs.
      The policy also notes separate standards my be established for the types of food and beverages to be sold to staff members and for events held outside the school day.
      In other matters last week, the school board approved the 2015-2016 school calendar. It calls for the first day of school on Mon., Aug. 31. Final day of classes will be June 7, 2016. The 2015-16 calendar includes 178 student days of instruction, two conference days and four professional days.
      The board accepted the following resignations:
      Carol Bonte, Robinwood Lane secretary, effective June 30, 2015, retirement; Shelly Winebold, Robinwood Lane noon-time monitor, effective Dec. 31, 2014; Vincent Carevale, Glenwood Middle head football coach; Scott Lenhart, Glenwood Middle assistant track coach.
      A parental leave of absence was granted to Toni Acevedo, from Jan. 20 through Jan. 30.
      An extension of an unpaid medical leave of absence was granted to Kathryn Carnie, from Jan. 26 through Feb. 10.
      David Anderson was granted a limited contract as a cleaning attendant at Boardman High School, replacing Virginia Mannion.
      Gale Douglas Blue II was also granted a limited contract as a cleaning attendant at Boardman High School, replacing Michael Lascola.
      The school board approved the employment of a substitute teacher to work with small groups of high school “at risk” sophomore, plus juniors and seniors who have not passed one of more sections of the Ohio Graduation Test. The substitute will be employed for a maximum of 19 days, from Feb. 17 through Mar. 13.
      School Board members Fred Davis, Kim Poma, John Landers, Mark Fulks and Vickie Davis approved a resolution honoring the Boardman Rotary Club for its efforts “in the collection and distribution of food baskets to approximately 50 Boardman families.”
     
  Car Break-Ins Here Tied To Gang Of Thieves Operating In 34 States  
  Group Has Targeted Parking Lots At The Davis Family YMCA, Boardman Park:   February 5, 2015 Edition  
     Boardman Local School District Security Supervisor, Ptl. Paul Poulos, of the Boardman Police Department, has issued a warning to motorists who leave their cars in parking lots to be aware they could be being stalked by an organized gang of identity thieves who operate throughout the United States.
      “Boardman police officers working in conjunction with agencies from multiple cities and states have identified several members of a larger group of suspects known as the ‘Felony Lane Gang.’ These individuals are serious identity fraud/theft perpetrators that harvest their information through breaking into automobiles,” Poulos informed staffers in the local school district, noting the gang often targets school parking lots.
      “We know they have struck in the Boardman YMCA parking lot (on McClurg Rd.), as well as the Boardman Township Park in the last six months,” Poulos said.
      The gang often targets vehicles that have purses or other bags visible,” Poulos warned.
      Last June after several reported car break-ins in Boardman Park, authorities learned identities stolen here were eventually used in New York City to cash stolen checks.
      Police sources also believe the gang staged several car break-ins on Jan. 4 at Boardman Park, as well as the D.D. and Velma Davis Family YMCA.
      Again, identities stolen in those break-ins have been traced to other cities, including Cleveland.
      “Arrests were made in the Cleveland area of known members, and when caught, they were in possession of items from our Boardman victims,” Officer Poulos said.
      “It appears, based on very recent incidents in Cleveland and other areas, that they are finding success in school parking lots, with a particular effort to target staff parking lots,” Poulos said.
      The officer described the gang’s primary mode of operation as finding vehicles that are unlocked, or locked that have purses and other bags visible. Primarily they look for adult female identification.
      “They will break auto glass to get to a bag or purse. Additionally, they have used observation vehicles to watch over their ‘lieutenants’ who actually do the scouting and breaking-in of the vehicles,” Poulos said. Authorities have labeled the theft ‘grab and dash’ crimes.
      According to the officer, there has been at least one incident where ‘lieutenants’ engaged responding police officers with gunfire.
      Officer Poulos warns the public not to approach any suspects if someone sees their vehicle being broken into.
      “Call 9-1-1 immediately,” the officer advised.
      Law enforcement officials say the Felony Lane Gang had it origins in Ft. Lauderdale, Fla. and began to get national attention in 2013. One local law enforcement official said the gang perhaps operated here as early as 2013.
      Today the gang is believed to be operating in at least 34 states with upwards of 100 ‘platoons’ organized to stage car break-ins and identity thefts. The gang frequently uses drug-addicted women to cash stolen checks.
      How It Works
      In 2013, a description of the gang was provided in a Columbia, South Carolina report.
      “The male ring leaders of the group are mainly from the Ft. Lauderdale and Miami areas. They recruit females who are responsible for cashing stolen checks for a small percentage of the profits, which is normally 10 per cent. Many of the females have past convictions of prostitution.
      “As the group arrives in the targeted area, the men immediately start breaking into cars looking for pocket books, checks, drivers licenses and credit cards. They target vehicles at health clubs, tanning salons, amusement parks, and sporting events, specifically looking for vehicles where wallets, purses and shopping bags are left in plain site.
      “Once the men have broken into numerous vehicles, they start molding the female gang members to look like the stolen victim’s identity; coloring their hair, purchasing wigs, and wearing large sun glasses.
      “The gang members then transport the females to the local banks where they will present the victim’s driver’s license and a stolen second party check.”
      Fraud investigators say the gang will use the farthest lane out in the drive thru, which is what they now call the ‘felony lane.’
      “If you’re right there, close to the teller in the first lane, the teller might be able to tell you have a wig on or you don’t match the identification. But if you’re in that far lane, and you’ve got more cars in between you, you might not pay as much attention,” one law enforcement official said.
      Investigators believe the gang can generating over $12,000 a day while cashing stolen checks.
      “You’re looking at car break-ins that most would look at as not a serious crime but as you start to look at and calculate the amount of money, the amount of damages people have suffered, it does start to effect the quality of life,” the law enforcement official said.
      Task Force
      The Felony Lane Gang has reportedly drawn attention from law enforcement officials across the country, including the FBI. A task force involving upwards of 92 agencies, as well as the FBI and financial institutions has been formed. In an effort to track movements of its various platoons, special computer software has been designed to track the crimes.
      Key gang members travel across the country, do not live in the areas where crimes are committed, and are unconnected to their mainly female recruits. That means they are not generally known to local agencies.
      Investigators believe the Felony Lane Gang is responsible for the theft of tens of millions of dollars.
      Around The Country
      Last Thurs., Jan. 29, police in Macedonia, Oh. arrested two women accused of be part of the Felony Lane Gang. They are each being held on $100,000 bail.
      Angelica Varela, 19, of Milwaukee, Wis., and Patricia Fromen, 46, of Ft. Lauderdale, Fla, face charges of stealing dozens of identities in Ohio and cashing thousands of dollars in checks stolen from cars.
      “These people...averaged about $20,000 per day on the fraudulent checks,” Macedonia police Sgt. Ken Turley said.
      Police departments around the state are trying to determine if there is a link between these most recent arrests and a rash of stolen purses from unlocked cars in Cincinnati, Dayton, Columbus, Toledo, Boardman Township and Findley.
      Apr. 28, 2012
       PLATT COUNTY, MISSOURI---A gang from Florida referred to as the Felony Lane Gang was held responsible in numerous thefts from automobiles and forgeries occurring throughout the Midwest, as well as other parts of the country
      In Platte County, prosecutors charged Laura Jane Smith, 37, with forgery linked to this group that was allegedly committing similar offenses of forgery in Kansas, Missouri, Iowa, Wisconsin and Indiana. Smith’s last known address was located in Fort Lauderdale, Florida. She was held in jail on a $10,000 bond.
      Oct. 08, 2013
       COLUMBIA, SOUTH CAROLINA---Eight members of the so-called Felony Lane Gang were been arrested.
      Mar. 7, 2014
       HOUSTON, TEXAS---Houston police said five members of the so-called Felony Lane Gang werere charged with engaging in organized criminal activity. Police said following the arrests, a search of the group’s motel room turned up various forms of personal information belonging to between 10 and 49 different people. Detectives said they also found disguises they believe were used when trying to cash stolen checks.
      Apr 24, 2014
       MERRIMACK, NEW HAMPSHIRE---Police in New Hampshire warn the public about the highly organized Felony Lane Gang getting away with millions of dollars in thefts.
      Jan. 5, 2015
       WESTFIELD, INDIANA---A gang of thieves with roots in Florida has been hitting victims across the country, including dozens of people in Westfield, Indiana. The so-called Felony Lane Gang has sparked copycat criminals all over the United States.
  Police Probe Break-In At ‘Smoke’ Shop  
  January 29, 2015 Edition  
     Boardman police are investigating a break-in on Jan. 17 at Pipe Dreamz, 5020 Market St. The company sells a variety of alternative smoking items and herbal products. One such product is known as kratom, said to be illegal/banned in Australia, Finland, Malaysia, Myanmar and Thailand.
      During the break-in at Pipe Dreamz, Ptl. Heather Dobbins reported more than a dozen bags of Maeng Da Kratom valued at an estimated $425 had been stolen. As well, police were told that $3000 in cash was missing.
      The business moved after the break-in and is now located at a strip plaza at 4605 Market St. However, Pipe Dreamz is tucked away on a side street of the plaza, along Shadyside Dr.
      Investigation of the break-in, according to police, indicates an employee may have been captured on a surveillance video in the early-morning hours of Jan. 17.
      Officer Dobbins identified the owner of the business as Michael Husain, 42, of 340 East Liberty St., Wooster, Oh. According to public records, a Michael Husain is listed as the incorporator for Habebe Ayat LLC, located at 340 East Liberty St., in Wooster.
      Husain is also listed at the incorporator for Pipe Dreamz LLZ, also of 340 East Liberty St., Wooster; as well as Ohio M&M Oil Inc., of 375 North Main St., Munroe Falls, Oh.
      Husain told Officer Dobbins he had problems with an employee whom he placed on ‘leave.’
      Husain told police that employee was seen on a surveillance video near 3:00 a.m. on Jan. 17 entering a side door. Two minutes later, the suspect exited the business, Officer Dobbins reported.
      Husain and another employee, identified as Shaina Rochford, told police that even though the suspect wore a mask, they both immediately recognized the suspect.
      “They stated they knew his clothing and the way he walked,” Officer Dobbins said.
      Husain told police he would give them a copy of the video.
      Boardman Township officials, including in the police and zoning departments, indicate they have little knowledge of kratom.
      What Is Kratom?
      According to a variety of source gleaned from the web, kratom is a tree native to Southeast Asia (Thailand, Malaysia and Myanmar). Its botanical name is mitragyna speciosa. The leaves of kratom have been used as an herbal drug from time immemorial by tribes of southeast Asia. It is used as a stimulant (in low doses), sedative (in high doses), recreational drug, pain killer, medicine for diarrhea, and treatment for opiate addiction.
      The Effects of Kratom
      In low doses (10 grams) it induces mild euphoria and reduces fatigue. Low doses do not interfere with most ordinary activities, however, one should not drive or perform other activities that require full attention. With strong doses (20-50 grams) the effects are profoundly euphoric and immensely pleasurable. Typically, people describe the effects as dreamy, ecstatic, and blissful. Many people experience closed-eye visualizations. Strong doses must only be used when one is able to devote several hours to the experience itself.
      Is Kratom Legal In The Uinted States?
      Confusion has abounded on the matter of the legal status of Kratom within the United States. Some sources will tell you that Kratom is a narcotic and should be illegal to buy or use. Others will tell you that Kratom is entirely legal as it is not a controlled substance. This matter is made further complex by the presence of local state laws that may impose different restrictions from those set out by the Federal government. At present, there is an ongoing push for stricter legislation on Kratom by some parties in the US, while others are urgently trying to spread the word on the benefits of this natural herb for health and mental well-being.
      A summer intern at the Koffel Law Firm in Columbus, Oh., Connor Roe, opined in 2013 “The DEA claims that kratom is an addictive stimulant despite numerous studies that contradict that statement. Even though this agency claims that it is dangerous, it is not even controlled under the Controlled Substances Act.”
      Some kratom distributors promote the substance as “the herbal remedy of choice used...for pain and other therapeutic uses such as anxiety, diarrhea, fatigue and mental instability. Kratom eliminates pain like a prescription pain medicine would and acts as a natural, euphoric muscle relaxer. Sometimes slightly stimulating, other times nicely sedating.”
      However, one company says on their packaging of kratom, “this product has not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. It is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, mitigate or prevent any disease.”
      A Jan., 2013 Drug & Chemical Evaluation by the Drug Enforcement Administration Office of Diversion Control said that “there is no legitimate medical use for kratom in the United States.”
      According to the DEA evaluation, “Kratom consumption can lead to addiction,” and lists effects of long-term kratom use such as anorexia, weight loss, insomnia, skin darkening, dry mouth, frequent urination and constipation, in addition to a withdrawal syndrome consisting of “symptoms of hostility, aggression, emotional liability, wet nose, achy muscles and bones and jerky movement of the limbs.
      “Furthermore, several cases of kratom psychosis were observed, where kratom addicts exhibited psychotic symptoms that included hallucinations, delusion and confusion,” according to the evaluation.
      On the Pipe Dreamz web site, there is an icon a viewer can click on for kratom.
      Reaching that site, the following disclaimer can be found:
      “Kratom-k.com is an authorized distributor of the finest brands of kratom. The herbal products on this website have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. These products are not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease. Products on this website should not be misused. Customers must be over 18 years of age to purchase kratom or any other products from this website. To buy kratom or place an ethnobotanical order you must agree to this disclaimer. By placing an order, you are agreeing to the above disclaimer. Kratom and ethnobotanical articles and reviews are for entertainment purposes only.”
      An Illinois criminal defense attorney, Matt Keenan, says as of Jan. 1, 2015, anyone underr 18 cannont sell or possess kratom.
      “As of Jan. 1, 2015, children under age 18 may not sell or possess any product containing the herbal drug kratom. Kratom is derived from...a tree native to Thailand. Its effects are similar to morphine or opium,” Keenan said.
  Hospice Mardi Gras Will Be Held Feb. 14 At Mr. Anthony’s  
  January 29, 2015 Edition  
     Hospice of the Valley will present the 14th annual Mardi Gras Party on Sat., Feb. 14 at Mr. Anthony’s, 7440 South Ave
      Doors open at 6:30 p.m. with champagne and hors d’ouvres. Featured at the event will be a silent auction including vacation packages, unique gift items, game tickets and autographed memorabilia, as well as gifts from local merchants and a bag auction. There will be dancing to Total Package and DJ Bryan Ladd, a 50/50 raffle, psychic readings, Mardi Gras store and more! Honorary chairs for the event are John and Denise York and the DeBartolo Corporation, and Elba and Shorty Navarro and the Stadium GM Superstore.
      Admission for the evening’s festivities is $100/person. Sponsorship tables remain available.
      All of the proceeds benefit Hospice of the Valley and their mission to provide comfort and compassionate care to those at the end of life as well as support for their families, doing so since 1979.
      For information regarding Hospice of the Valley and their services, the Mardi Gras or to purchase 50/50 raffle tickets, call Liz McGarry, Hospice Development Director, at 330-788-1992.
  Potential Development Annual Pizza Cook-Off At Mr. Anthony’s Mar. 8  
  January 29, 2015 Edition  
     Potential Development will present the 6th Annual Mahoning Valley Cook-Off fundraiser on Sun., Mar. 8 from 4:00 to 7:00 p.m. at Mr. Anthony’s, 7440 South Ave., Boardman.
      The Mahoning Valley’s finest pizza establishments will donate thier time and talent to present you their tastiest pizzas and compete in a contest for the 2015 title of ‘Maestro Di Cucina’.
      Fun for the entire family with hands-on-art activities, live and silent auctions and a basket raffle and cash bar.
      Tickets are $15 per person and includes 3 pizza slices. Additional pizza is available at $1 per slice. Children under 5 are free! Reserved tables are $175 and includes 10 tickets.
      To buy tickets and reserve tables call Shellie at 330-746-7641 or online at mvpizzacookoff.com. To become a sponsor, place a program ad or make an auction donation
      The 2015 Title Sponsor of the 6th Annual Mahoning Valley Cook-Off is Simon Roofing. Additional sponsors include: Compco Industries, Salem Columbiana Chrysler Jeep Dodge, FortyTwo Event Production, 33 WYTV News, Print Factory, Jet Creative Productions and Mix 98.9.
      Proceeds to benefit the Potential Development Program/School of Autism, 290 W. Woodland Ave., Youngstown. Potential Development believes a child’s potential develops best in a structured environment with individualized educational plans designed for each unique student. This is achieved through ample resources and strong partnerships between parents, caretakers and our educated, caring and qualified staff. For more information call 330-746-7641 or email info@potentialdevelopment.org.
     
  Cardinal Mooney Principal ‘Forced’ Out Of His Job  
  January 22, 2015 Edition  
      forced out of his job last week, setting-off a firestorm in which, as of Wednesday, the Diocese of Youngstown had offered no comment.
      According to a variety of sources, Young was told last Thursday at 2:00 p.m. by Fr. Gerald DeLucia, president of Mooney High School Board of Directors, that he had to retire or resign. Young, a veteran educator with more than 40 years experience in public and parochial education, refused that offer.
      Issues with the management of Cardinal Mooney apparently surfaced last year when Young was offered a position of director of alumni relations. He refused that offer, The Boardman News was told.
      Last fall, an internal study on the management of the school was completed and reportedly concluded there were lapses in leadership, and perhaps discipline. That study reportedly came after Bishop George Murry, head of the Diocese of Youngstown, had been informed by Young in October of personnel issues within the administrative offices of Mooney High School, more specifically with an assistant principal.
      Young became Mooney principal in May, 2011, following the retirement of Sr. Jane Marie Kudlacz. Prior to that, Young served as principal at Liberty High School.
      “All I can say is that man’s heart was with Cardinal Mooney,” said one member of the school’s board of directors.
      Another long-time Mooney associate commented “his removal is quite disappointing and leads to unfounded speculation.”
      A variety of sources, all long-time Cardinal Mooney supporters, suggest since his appointment, Young was frequently undermined by one of two assistant principals at the school, Joanne Carney Smith.
      “She often complained to the diocese,” The Boardman News was told.
      According to the sources, Young was criticized for being inside the cafeteria with students during lunch time, and had also been criticized for bringing his camera to Mooney events, or to school and taking pictures of students who earned academic recognition.
      “They took his camera away from him,” one person exclaimed.
      He was, during his tenure, one of the best public relations agents that Cardinal Mooney could have hoped for.
      Young has told several people “They forced me out.”
      Yet another source charged that Bishop Murry really wasn’t aware of what was happening to Young and the moves to undercut his position.
      According to several people, a student protest in support of Young, organized by parents at the school, was set for Tues., Jan. 20.
      In a letter to students, signed by DeLucia, announcement of Young ‘suddenly’ leaving the school was made without mentioning his name, instead informing that assistant principal Mark Vollmer, would serve as acting principal of the school through the end of the current school year.
      Dated Jan. 15, the letter to parents and guardians read “Effective today, Mark Vollmer will assume the duties of interim principal for the remained of the school year. Please provide to Mark your support and cooperation as he assumes these new responsibilities. A search for a new principal for the 2015-16 school year will begin next week.”
      Under terms of a separation agreement, Young is not allowed to talk about leaving Cardinal Mooney High School.
      Young has served as a mentor for many school administrators throughout Mahoning and Trumbull Counties and early in January was named to the Professional Education Council at Youngstown State University. The council is the governing body for all professional education programs at Youngstown State.
  Mannozzi Posts Olympic Trials 50k Qualifying Time  
  January 22, 2015 Edition  
      On Dec. 14, Boardman native Michael Mannozzi had toed the line in Santee (Greater San Diego), Calif. with the top men and women walkers in the Unite States, along with Olympians and national team members from Ecuador, Sweden, Mexico and Canada for the USA 50k Race Walking National Championships.
      The 50km is the longest footrace in the Olympic Games.
      Mannozzi moved his way up the field and was in sixth place by the 30k mark of the race.
      He said he began thinking about his roots and various struggles in Boardman, all of which led him to that moment in the race and helped him to endure the pain and suffering that the 50km inflicts.
      Mannozzi finished fourth among the American men which is his highest finish (ranking) in the USA at an Olympic distance. In 2012, he finished fifth at the USA Olympic trials in the 20k and ninth in the 50k respectively.
      His finish in San Diego qualifies him for the 2016 Olympic trials in the 50km distance. Only the top 18 in the entire USA bettering a time of 4 hours and 45 minutes (4:45) are invited to compete in the Olympic Trials. In San Diego, Mannozzi walked a 4:32.14 (a 8:46/5:27 mile/kilometer pace), which is a personal best by 9 minutes and 14 seconds in the 50k distance. This pace would put him in the top half of finishers of almost any marathon...walking!
      As a result of his lifetime best performance in the 50km, Mannozzi has been named to the USA Pan-Am Cup Team and he will compete in Chile this May. He is also the alternate to the Pan-Am Games team which will take place in July in Toronto, Canada.
      Just 13 days after the 50k, Mannozzi and his coach, Stafford Whalen, decided that he could race in Rochester, New York, where he competed in the USA 5k Racewalk national championships on Sat., Dec. 27.
      After being boxed-in during the first lap, Mannozzi worked his way up to sixth place in the first kilometer, working to stay with the lead pack. Throughout the race, his former coach Mike Rohl was instrumental in coaching and instructing Mannozzi. He moved-up the field that included two Olympians and multiple national record holders among the competitors.
      When friend and Shore AC teammate Jonathan Hallman flew past Mannozzi with just under 2k (1.25 miles) to go, Mannozzi almost caved but to his surprise Hallman, challenged him by saying, “How bad do you want it?” and “Come get me,”
      Spurred by those comments, Mannozzi worked to close the gap and stay with Hallman as they worked together to overtake the leader.
      With three laps to go, Mannozzi found another gear and made a powerful surge that lasted the final 600 meters of the race.
      As he crossed the finish line Coach Rohl yelled “Now that is how you win a national championship!”
      Following the race, during the awards presentation, Mannozzi noted, “I am humbled that my former coach Mike Rohl stepped-up to help me out today. Ironically, what he was coaching me to do was right in line with what my coach Stafford Whalen had planned.
      He said when challenged by Hallman, “He dared me to fight the pain to stay with his quick pace which forced me to dig deeper and helped me to hit another gear that I did not think I would have so soon after a 50k, and with no speedwork for this type of a distance in over six months.”
      Among Mannozzi’s sponsors is Pizza Joe’s, 6810 Market St., operated by Mario LaMarca.
  All Day-Every Day Kindergarten To Hold 2015-16 Registration Feb. 12  
  January 22, 2015 Edition  
     Registration Day for the 2015-16 school year’s kindergarten to the Boardman Schools will be held on Thurs., Feb. 12. Times for registration will be 9:00 a.m. to 11:00 a.m., 1:00 p.m. to 3:00 p.m. and 6:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. in each of our four elementary school offices. It is not necessary for children to accompany their parents.
      The custodial parent or guardian must be a resident of the Boardman Local School District.
      Registration for a new student to the Boardman Schools require:
       1. The child must reach age 5 on or before Aug. 1, 2015, if entering kindergarten.
       2. Completion of a Registration Form
       3. Presentation of proof of immunization and completion of the School Health Record. (proof of your child’s immunization is a physician’s statement or immunization card with dates entered).
       4. Presentation of official State birth certificate. (If your child was born in Mahoning County, this certificate may be obtained from the Bureau of Vital Statistics, 345 Oak Hill Ave., phone 330-743-3333). Please note that personal checks are not accepted - cash only.
       5. Presentation of at least two proof of residency forms (e.g. home owner’s tax statement, utility bill, purchase/rental agreement) and a residency affidavit.
       6. Custody papers, if applicable.
       7. Payment of $25 fee to partially cover the cost of supplies furnished by the school.
      Classroom space is limited for kindergarten. Therefore, some kindergarten students may be assigned another building in the district. It is important to register early to ensure assignment to your elementary school of residence.
      Boardman Elementary School addresses and phone numbers are as follows:
       Market Street, 5555 Market St., 330-782-3743.
       Robinwood Lane, 835 Indianola Rd., 330-782-3164.
       Stadium Drive, 111 Stadium Dr., 330-726-3428.
       West Boulevard, 6125 W. Blvd., 330-726-3427.
      In order to prepare for appropriate school-age educational placement and programming, the Boardman Local Schools’ Special Education Dept., is currently planning for the evaluation of preschoolers with disabilities that receive services at the Lockwood Preschool site.
      Preschoolers with disabilities that do not receive services at the Lockwood Preschool site and reside in the Boardman Local School District, may contact/refer to the Special Education Office. The referral should include the child’s and parent’s names, address, telephone number, child’s date of birth, and disability category. Please contact the Special Education Office, 7410 Market St., at 330-726-3411.
  Davis Leads School Board Calhoun Chairman Of Trustees  
  January 15, 2015 Edition  
     The Boardman Board of Trustees and Boardman Board of Education held reorganizational meetings to open the new year.
      Meeting last Sunday, the school board elected Fred Davis as president for the new year.
      Davis served two terms on the board, from 1994 thru 2005; and then gained appointment to the board upon the resignation of Dr. Robert DeMarco in Aug., 2010.
      Davis is a life-long resident of Boardman and a 1975 graduate of Boardman High School. He received a bachelors’ degree from Adrian College in 1979, and went on to graduate from the Pittsburgh Institute of Mortuary Science in 1980.
      Davis is a member of the Boardman United Methodist Church, where he has served as an usher and is a member of the Board of Trustees, and is currently a member of the a member of the Four Square Club. He is a former member of the Boardman Boosters, Boardman Community Foundation and the Boardman Civic Association.
      Davis operated the Davis Funeral Home in Boardman for more than 30 years, before joining Dan Becker and Becker Funeral Homes three years ago.
      Meeeting on Monday night at Sweeney GMC-Buick, Boardman Trustees elected Brad Calhoun as chairman of the board.
      Calhoun, a democrat, was elected a trustee in 2009, running as part of a two-man team with Trustee Thomas Costello, a republican. He and Costello, and Trustee Larry Moliterno, a democrat, working in tandem with Fiscal Officer Wiliam Leicht, a republican, have restored integrity to township government in the wake of disfunctional terms served by Kathy Miller and Robyn Gallitto. Calhoun, Costello, Moliterno and Leicht organized an annual Community Day event at the Government Center that highlights local government and has provided fellowship to thousands of residents who have attended the event.
      Calhoun, an eighth grade teacher at Center Middle School, served two terms as president of the Boardman Local Schools teachers’ union, the Boardman Education Association, prior to his election as trustee. He is currently the coordinator of the social studies department at Center Middle School, known for annual trips with students to Washington, D.C.
      Calhoun is a Trustee of the J. Ford Crandall Foundation and has participated in a number of community organizations including Boardman Lions Club, the Boardman Civic Association and Boardman PTA.
      He holds a bachelors degree in secondary education/social studies from Youngstown State University and a masters degree in curriculum education from Ashland University.
      Elected vice-president of the school board was Vickie Davis and elected vice-chairman of the Board of Trustees was Moliterno.
  Gretta Knows...... ...This Must Be Heaven!  
  January 15, 2015 Edition  
     Woof Woof! Happy New Year! Another day to look out over the meadow before me, the towering green grass silently sways, the gentle breeze strokes my fur causing me to instinctively put my nose into the air, taking a deep breath of the fresh clean air. The warm sun caresses my body, and a feeling of peace and contentment surround me. The meadow has a beauty all its own and is limitless with no end in sight. There are hills to climb. Creeks to play in. Dog pals and cats to meet. Another year ahead to search the vast open meadows for endless possibilities!
      I notice the Lab gang and a large group of my heavenly pals walking through the meadow. Sady, the guard dog of the Rainbow Bridge, has summoned everyone to come to the bridge. One of our sisters will soon be arriving to join us. I run down to join them.
      As we arrive, Sady is standing on the bridge. He explains that our sister Dehlia, a Rhodesian Ridgeback, is now making the journey from her earthly home to join us in her new heavenly home. Sady turns to me and says, “Hey, Gretta, I was told that Dehlia spent quite a bit of time in your hometown of Boardman.”
      Oooh, how exciting! I can’t wait to meet Dehlia and bark with her about my hometown, but I know in my doggy heart, how difficult this journey will be for her. It is so, so hard to leave the loving family she has known, and arrive in an unfamilar place. But time is kind and seems to grace us with an inner gift of healing.
      Sady turns to walk across the bridge to the other side, where Dehlia will arrive. All the heavenly dogs and cats sit quietly and wait in anticipation of Dehlia’s homecoming.
      We all stand as we see Dehlia arrive at the far end of the bridge.
      “Welcome to your new heavenly home Dehlia”, Sady quietly barks. “Everyone here has been anxiously waiting for you”. Dehlia glances around, looking as sad as a hound dog’s eye, and yelps, “I wish I could go back to my earth family. I loved them so, so much and they always treated me with such kindness and love. I long to just greet them one more time, to get one last love pat on the top of my head and to give them a doggy kiss. And to play with my pawsitively best dog pal, Sierra, who was always by my side. We’ll always be fur-ever friends”
      “You were gifted with such a beautiful earth family and the memories you made together over the years, will always be a part of you. Please take your time, to say your goodbyes. There is no hurry. When you are ready, I have a note here under my paw that arrived with your name on it. It is signed by Joy. So when you are ready I will share it with you.” Sady replies.
      Dehlia’s head rises, her ears perk up, and she barks, “Joy, a note from Joy! She was a great blessing in my life. We shared such a loving bond together. We were always there for each other. Twice a day, she had to have drops put into her eyes, and no matter what I was doing, I would stop and run over to be at her side. Our hearts will eternally be together. Please .... let me hear what she wrote.......”
      Sady held the note on the ground with his paw as he expressed Joy’s words......Dehlia, the unconditional love of a four-legged warrior will always remain embedded in my heart. But yet my soul and spirit have been torn asunder, and there is such a black void. I will cherish the fond memories, but oh, how I miss her warm embrace, her tenderness, and her unrelenting compassion for us all. I will always remember the bond we shared--her wild side and gentle side, her constant understanding, and also her playful antics. My heart is so heavy, but her warmth, strength and kindness will be with me forever. I will always love you, Dehlia, and I miss you dearly!!! Joy.
      Sady picked up the note with his mouth and walked over to Dehlia and tucked it under her collar. Dehlia stood tall and gave a contented sigh, “a part of Joy will be with me forever and I will always be with her.”
      Dehlia then walked over and stood next to Sady. She took one last glance behind her and began to walk across the bridge with Sady by her side.
      As Dehlia and Sady reached the other edge of the Rainbow Bridge, all the heavenly dogs and cats began howling and meowing, welcoming Dehlia to her new home.
      Dehlia was amazed and barked, “there are so many of my brothers and sisters here”. Sady barked, “you will never be alone here”.
      “Over here, this is Gretta, Dutch, Remington, Ruger, Rasta, Kachina and feline Lucky all from your hometown”, Sady added. “Hi paws to you, Dehlia, they yelped in unison!“ We have to lay under one of the big oak trees and bark about our Boardman adventures. But first come on, let us all show you your new heavenly home.”
      If you could see it here, the meadow has become blanketed with dogs and cats, running with Dehlia, to the top of the meadow hill. Suddenly everyone stops. Dehlia gazes all around, and howls, “What a beautiful place! Are we free to run anywhere we wish! The beauty goes on forever?” I barked, “Yes, you can run, play, swim, jump, roll over, sleep, whatever you wish. You have unlimited amounts of playtime, happiness, love, peace, and dog pals and cats everwhere you go!”
      “Well c’mon! Hey, do Rhodesian Ridgebacks like to swim”, barked Dutch of the Lab gang.
      “Yip, yip”, exclaimed Dehlia. Dehlia checked her collar to make sure Joy’s note was tucked away safely, and off she went following Dutch and the rest of the Lab gang. They stood at the top of the creek bed, and Dehlia barked.... “this must be heaven” and then they jumped into the creek, running and splashing, chasing each other and of course their tails were ‘awaggin.
  New Pumper Truck Ordered  
  To Replace Vehicle Totaled In Nov., 2014 Accident:   January 8, 2015 Edition  
     A report completed by the Ohio State Highway Patrol says the driver of a Boardman Township fire truck that crashed on Shields Rd. on Nov. 26, 2014 operated the pumper truck without reasonable control.
      A copy of the State Patrol’s report in the crash was obtained by The Boardman News from the Boardman Fire Department.
      Township Administrator Jason Loree said that Fire Chief Mark Pitzer informed trustees that the pumper truck, driven by fire-fighter Ben Poole, 27, swerved to miss a deer near 2:00 a.m., just west of the intersection of West Blvd. and Shields Rd. and ended up in a ditch. The fire truck, and three firemen, were on their way to a call of a diabetic emergency on West Midlothian Blvd. at the time of crash.
      The OSP report makes no mention of the deer.
      The OSP report notes a utility pole was sheared-off during the accident, and a transformer fell off the pole.
      “HazMat was called to the scene for five gallons of oil that spilled from the transformer into the ditch,” Trooper Tim Dobbins reported.
      Loree and Assistant Fiscal Officer George Platton said the fire truck, a 1999 pumper truck, was totaled. Damages were upwards of $90,000, Loree said.
      Poole appeared in Boardman Court in December and was found guilty of failing to control, fined $20 and ordered to pay $80 in court costs.
      Since the accident, Platton said the township has been leasing a pumper truck.
      The accident seems to have a silver lining for Boardman Township.
      Loree said that insurance provider for the township totaled the truck and a new truck, valued at some $500,000, will be delivered to the fire department, likely sometime this summer, at no cost to the township.
  Boy Scout Order Of The Arrow Seeks History For Centennial  
  January 8, 2015 Edition  
      Scouting’s National Honor Society, the Order of the Arrow (OA) will celebrate their 100th anniversary in 2015 with a major celebration being held at the National Order of the Arrow Conference at Michigan State University, Aug. 3–8, 2015 in East Lansing, Mich.
      More than 10,000 Arrowmen (youth, men and women members and staff) will attend the historic conference with 71 members coming from our local area. As part of this celebration, the National OA office has instructed all lodges to gather their local history, create a Lodge History Book and submit it for the celebration.
      The Greater Western Reserve Boy Scout Council lodge is known as Wapashuwi Lodge 56 which was formed on July 1, 1995 from the merger of three former lodges, Stigwandish Lodge 114, Tapawingo Lodge 368 and Neatoka Lodge 396.
      The Wapashuwi Lodge has been working on gathering not only their history from 1995 to date, but also the history of the three former lodges that existed in the area now served by the Greater Western Reserve Council.
      Stigwandish Lodge 114 began in 1938 of the Northeast Ohio Council serving the counties of Geauga, Lake and Ashtabula. Tapawingo Lodge 368 was formed in 1947 of the Western Reserve Council and served Trumbull County. Neatoka Lodge 396 served the Mahoning Valley Council in Mahoning County was first called Mahoning Lodge 396 and began in 1948. By 1955 the lodge had lost their charter. In 1957, they were re-charted as Mahoning Lodge 396 and by the fall of 1957, changed their name to Neatoka Lodge 396.
      According to Mike Kupec, adviser to the Lodge History Project “Mahoning Lodge 396 from 1948 to 1955 is a complete mystery. We have no information on their members, activities, events nor any photos, paperwork or anything.” said Kupec. “The only piece of information that we have from our national office is that there was 95 members by 1955.
      We need the help of the local community whose father or grandfather may have been in the OA during those years in Mahoning County and perhaps has a membership card, photo or any paperwork for Mahoning Lodge 396”, he said.
      They are also looking for the same kind of materials and memorabilia for Neatoka, Stigwandish, Tapawingo, and Wapashuwi Lodges. They have also been contacting past Lodge Chiefs and Lodge advisers and doing video interviews of their experience in the OA to also add to their history book for submission to the National OA.
      In 1915, Camp Director E. Urner Goodman and Assistant Camp Director Carroll A. Edson searched for a way to recognize select campers for their cheerful sprits of service at Treasure Island Scout Camp in the Delaware River. Goodman and Edson founded the Order of the Arrow when they held the first Ordeal Ceremony on July 16 of that year. By 1921, as the popularity of the organization spread to other camps, local lodges attended the first national gathering called a Grand Lodge Meeting.
      The Order of the Arrow was one of many camp honor societies that existed at local Scout camps across the country. Through the years as more camps adopted the Order of the Arrow’s program, it gained prominence and became part of the national Boy Scout program in 1934. By 1948, the OA, recognized as the BSA’s national brotherhood of honor campers, became an official part of the Boy Scouts of America. Toward the end of the twentieth century, the OA expanded its focus to include conservation, high adventure, and servant-leadership.
      Throughout the years, the Order of the Arrow has played an integral role in the program of the Boy Scouts and in the community service its members contribute to their communities. To date, more than one million people have been members of the Order of the Arrow.
      Presently, the Order of the Arrow consists of nearly 300 lodges. Leadership positions and voting rights are restricted to members under the age of 21. Through the program, members live up to the ideals of brotherhood, cheerfulness, and service set forth by E. Urner Goodman and Carroll A. Edson.
      There is a collection of OA material currently on display at the Greater Western Reserve Council Boy Scout Museum at Camp Stambaugh on Leffingwell Rd. in Canfield which is open upon request. Anyone having any material to loan for scanning or to donate can contact Kupec at 330-799-1475 or at mike.kupec@gmail.com.
      Information on Wapashuwi Lodge can be found at wapashuwi.org, the National Order of the Arrow at oa-bsa.org and the Greater Western Reserve Council at bsa-gwrc.org or call 330-898-8474.
  TRUSTEES TO MEET ON EVE OF NATIONAL TITLE GAME  
  January 8, 2015 Edition  
     Boardman Trustees have scheduled their first meeting of the year on the eve of the NCAA national grid championship featuring the Ohio State Buckeyes against the Oregon Ducks. The title game gets underway at 8:30 p.m., preceded by the Trustees meeting at 5:30 p.m. The national title game is in Dallas, Texas. The Trustees meeting is at Sweeney Buick, 7997 Market St.
  Boardman Native Dr. Justin Mistovich Joins Youngstown Orthopaedic Assoc.  
  January 1, 2015 Edition  
Dr. Justin Mistovich, (L) & Bob Campbell (R)
     Dr. Justin Mistovich, a 1999 graduate of Boardman High School, recently returned to his hometown, to open his pediatric orthopaedic practice, and join the team at Youngstown Orthopaedic Associates (YOA), 1499 Boardman-Canfield Rd., in Boardman.
      YOA is now expanding their services to include treatment of children with spine conditions. Dr. Mistovich specializes in the treatment of pediatric fractures, sports injuries, and spinal conditions, including scoliosis.
      Dr. Mistovich graduated from Duquesne University in Pittsburgh, Honors College, cum laude, with a Bachelor of Arts in Spanish and a Minor in Biology, in 2003. He graduated with his Doctor of Medicine from Wright State University School of Medicine in Dayton in 2008.
      In 2008, Dr. Mistovich also served as a health policy intern for Congressman Tom Prince, working with Congressional staff to develop policy documents on healthcare legislation, attending congressional healthcare hearings and summarizing policy points and ideas.
      His orthopaedic surgical residency was completed in June 2013 from Allegheny General Hospital in Pittsburgh. Dr. Mistovich completed his clinical fellowship in pediatric orthopaedic surgery in July of 2014, under a world-renowned surgical team, at the Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia.
      Dr. Mistovich joined with Bob Campbell in August of 2014, to co-direct a course at The Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia for the FDA, discussing new innovations and advances in the care for children with spinal deformities and how to care for them. Bob Campbell invented a device called the VEPTR, which can treat very young children with spine and chest wall deformities. Dr. Mistovich stated, “His device saves the lives of kids with these deformities who almost would have died from their disease before.”
      After the earthquake in Haiti, Dr. Mistovich volunteered to serve on a medical disaster relief team in 2010 in Port-au-Prince, Haiti. He was in charge of an orthopaedic trauma operating room, in a tent hospital, with an Eastern European general surgeon.
      Dr. Mistovich has also authored manuscripts; book chapters, including The Spine section for the upcoming 20th edition of the Nelson’s Textbook of Pediatrics; surgical technique videos, and lectures on pediatric orthopaedic surgery.
      Dr. Mistovich and his wife Keili have a daughter named Madeleine. He is the son of Joyce and Ron Mistovich of Boardman.
     
  Treasures Of Township History Abound At Historic Detchon Home  
  Situated in Boardman Park:   January 1, 2015 Edition  
Albert Eyster Homestead
     Situated in Boardman Park is the historic Oswald Detchon home, named after one of the first 27 families to move to Boardman more than 200 years ago.
      The home was formerly located near Southern Blvd. on Rt. 224 and was moved to Boardman Park in 1985, and now serves as home to a significant collection of local history, collected by the Boardman Historical Society members Don and Patsy Ann Zabel over the past 50 years.
      “We want people to know the about the collection, and we are open for tours at anytime throughout the year,” Don Zabel said this week, adding he and his wife both like history and “preserving it.”
      At the age of 40, Oswald Detchon, a native of England, came to Boardman in 1801, among 27 families that settled here that year. He owned 800 acres of land in Boardman, and by 1803, old records show he was the second-largest taxpayer in the township, paying annual taxes of $1.30.
      Among the most prominent members of the Methodist Episcopal Church, its early meetings were held in a log schoolhouse on Detchon’s farm (roughly located on the northeast corner of Rt. 224 and Southern Blvd.) before the first church edifice was erected about 1835.
      Detchon died in 1836 in Boardman at the age of 75, and many years later, Judge Harold Doyle and his new wife called the Detchon home ‘their home” for several years.
      Detchon was a noted tanner and was among the early caretakers of Boardman Cemetery. He was known for paying good prices for hides and pelts.
      In 1984, a car dealership (Ford) bought the old Detchon property and the Boardman Rotary Club provided the funding to move the home to the historic village in the park, where it now sits (along with Olde St. James Meeting House and the Schiller-Chuey Summer Kitchen House).
      Among the thousands of historical items in the museum are old tools, photographs, Boardman High School yearbooks, clothing, furniture, documents, knick-knacks and other items commonly used in the past. There’s a couch, old manual typewriters, a wall tapestry and hundreds of photographs, including a photo of the 1964-65 Boardman High School basketball team that reached the Final Four.
      “Former Boardman coach Dick Selby donated that photograph of the basketball team,” Party Ann Zabel recalls.
      There is one artifact of Boardman’s history that is missing from the Oswald Detchon home. That is a rock, said to be engraved with the initials ‘E.B.’ History recalls the rock was placed at Boardman Center when the founder of the township, Elijah Boardman, first settled here in 1978. It had been in possession of Boardman Park until about 50 years ago when Ivor Jenkins retired as park superintendent.
      “Artifacts at the Detchon home have been donated to us,” Don Zabel says, adding “usually when a family member dies.” Key donors to the museum include the Zabels, Howard and Bernice Simon (whose family owned a large farm on Indianola Rd., near the present day Robinwood Lane Elementary School), and Roberta Ramsey.
      “Without them, and the efforts of the Boardman Rotary Club, I don’t know where were would have all of these displays,” Patsy Ann Zabel noted.
      The home is open for tours, by appointment, that can be arranged by calling the park offices at 330-726-8105.
      Picture: THE ALBERT EYSTER HOMESTEAD used to be located along what is now Market St. at Sciota Ave. The home in this picture was built between 1880 and 1890. Pictured in the wagon is Albert Eyster, who was known for hauling coal and lumber in the wagon. Tis picture is among the many in the Oswald Det-chon Home at Boardman Park.
     
      For more pictures pick up a copy of this week's Boardman News (Jan1-6, 2015)
  Gretta Knows...... its the simple things  
  December 18, 2014 Edition  
     Woof, Woof, my friends! Well Christmas is almost here! It is time for my heavenly pals and I to journey back to our little piece of heaven that we call home. You see it is almost time for the big Christmas celebration for Jesus!
      We love watching you from up here in doggy heaven, seeing you busy getting ready for this wonderful time of the year! Buying gifts, baking cookies, having gatherings to express gratitude and thanks to family, friends, employees, all who have somehow touched your lives in some way!
      What a joyous time, such a happy time! Cares and worries are somehow put aside in preparation for the Holiday season. Smiles and kind words grace others we meet! Christmas lights brighten the night. From up here they look like little stars surrounding your homes with peace! Such a beautiful sight. Oh and the children, excitement can be seen in their eyes in anticipation for a special gift that they will find lying under the tree on Christmas morning.
      We reach the top of our meadow hill and stop to gaze around. Lab Dutch barks, “it’s a beautiful sight!” Lab Remington barks in, “what a pawsitively grand feeling to see our piece of heaven again.” “Yea, the other parts of heaven all offered a wonderful new adventure, but there is no feeling like being back home again”, howls Lab Ruger.
      Lab Sebastian starts to walk over to the large open field, and we all follow! There are hundreds of dogs and cats all gathering, barking and meowing, with excitement. I glance upward and notice a large bright shining star, marking the sight where all the heavenly animals are to come for the great birthday Christmas celebration.
      We find a spot in the field and lie down! As we lie there in silence, thoughts begin to take us back to our earthly homes and to the masters whom we shared our Christmas’s with. Dog Rasta barked, “I so remember the special Christmas cookies, all decorated with bright colors, that my masters would give me on Christmas morning.” “I often wished I could have given my masters a gift for all the love and care they gave to me,” Lab Kachina barks.
      “But you did”, I barked. “Each one of us gave our masters gifts! Special gifts for a lifetime.....a lifetime of doggy kisses, a lifetime of comfort, a lifetime of companionship, a lifetime of quiet walks, a lifetime of love, a lifetime of joy, a lifetime of loyalty, a lifetime of tail waggin’. These gifts will remain inside our master’s hearts throughout each and every day of their lives.”
      Feline Lucky meows, “yes these gifts are priceless treasures.” Feline Squeeky purrs, “it’s the simple things in life that we remember the most.” “I remember once hearing someone exclaim, enjoy the simple things for one day you may look back and realize they were the big things”, Lab Dutch barked, “now I understand.” The group gives out a dog sigh in agreement.
      Lab Sady the Rainbow Bridge guard dog stops by, “I couldn’t help over hearing your barks! I wanted to wish each of you a Merry Christmas! You know I met each one of you when we walked together across the Rainbrow Bridge upon your arrival here in heaven. Each of you were saddened at having to leave your masters behind on earth. You each devoted your life to them, loving them unconditionally, and you will always hold them close to your heart.”
      Lab Sady continued, “Christmas is all about the heartfelt gifts you give of yourselves, to others! Your masters’ hearts will always wear pawprints left by you.”
      We notice the dogs and cats have all risen to their feet, jumping, howling, wiggling with excitement. It’s Christmas! Joy to the world, the Lord has come! Peace on earth, good will to men! Our tails are a waggin’........Happy Paw-lidays to you! Love, peace and wags, Gretta
     
      Gretta, a Golden Retriever, spent almost 15 years at The Boardman News. She greeted all who entered with a wag of her tail! She died in November of 2012.
      Send your animal tributes/stories to: The Boardman News, 8302 Southern Blvd., S2A, Boardman, OH 44512 or
      email to: bnewsgsd@gmail.com
  CRWC New Officers 2015-2017  
  December 18, 2014 Edition  
     The Canfield Republican Women’s Club installed their new officers for the 2015-2017 terms. Pictured, left to right, are new officers: Past President, Suellen Blasdell; President, Holly Baker of North Lima; Vice President, Monica Robb of Columbiana; Treasurer, Suzanne Trigg of Canfield. Missing from photo is Secretary, Jackie Stewart from Canfield. In addition to supporting qualified Republican candidates, the Club supports Caring for America by donating money to various organizations including The Fisher House, The American Legion, YSU Veteran’s Center and more. Meetings are the 1st Wednesdays of most months.
      Please visit us on Facebook or email crwcmail@gmail.com for more information. This club is open to all Republican women living in or around the Mahoning Valley.
  BHS Instrumental Music Dept  
  At Community Christmas in Boardman Park:   December 11, 2014 Edition  
     Boardman High School's Instrumental Music Dept. under the direction of Tom Ruggieri are pictured inside St. James Church at Boardman Township Park. Christmas music and carols filled the air during the Annual Community Christmas event at Boardman Township Park on Sun., Dec. 7.
  Report Calls For $30 Million In Improvements To Middle School  
  December 4, 2014 Edition  
     BY JOHN A. DARNELL JR.
      associate editor
      Meeting last week, the Boardman Board of Education formally received a report from the Ohio Facilities Construction Commission (OFCC), suggesting upwards of $130 million in capital improvements to local school buildings.
      Most of those costs, if they were ever to be implemented, upwards of 85 per cent to 90 per cent, would have to be borne by the taxpayers.
      Among the $130 million, the OFCC suggested more than $29 million in improvements to Center Middle School. According to the OFCC report, more than $4 million of the total costs of improvements at Center would go towards ‘non-construction costs’ like compensation for design professionals, soil borings and builder’s risk insurance.
      The OFCC assessment of Center Middle School is less than flattering.
      The assessment claims that classrooms are undersized and do not conform to current state standards. “The ventilation system is inadequate to meet the needs of users,” the OSFC says in its assessment of Center Middle School, adding the school has a “limited security system and a non-compliant fire alarm system.”
      The OFCC says that Center Middle School is not in compliance with standards established by the Americans with Disabilities Act and compliance with the ADA would be difficult to achieve.
      687 students currently attend Center Middle, in a building that has a capacity for 1,125 students, according to the OFCC assessment.
      The OFCC assessment of Center claims that 21-acres site “is adjacent to commercial development uses which are not suitable for educational instruction.”
      Among the more than $29 million needed to upgrade Center Middle School to ‘current standards,” as opined by the OFCC in it assessment are the following:
       •The roofs over the entire building require replacement.
       •The building does not meet energy conservation guidelines.
      •The building is reported to contain asbestos and other hazardous materials.
       •Classrooms have an inadequate number of electrical outlets and data jacks for technology applications,.
       •Drinking fountains, though properly maintained, are not adequate in number and placement.
       •Outdoor light fixtures are provided inadequately.
       •Vehicular traffic flows are unsafe.
       •The average classroom size is 737 sq-ft and should be 900 sq-ft.
       •The school gymnasium is located near academic learning areas and the OFCC assessment says “that can be distracting.”
       •The teachers’ lounge provides limited workspace for the preparation of teacher materials.
       •The student dining area is too big and the cafeteria kitchen is too small.
       •The school is not equipped with central air conditioning.
       •Classroom furniture is mismatched and in fair to poor condition.
      According to a variety of school officials, State Sen. Joe Schiavoni has proposed legislation designed to ease the burden on taxpayers should be Boardman Local School Board ever consider replacing Center Middle School.
      Under an Exceptional Needs program, Sen. Schiavoni’s bill will provide 45 per cent of state funding needed to replace Center Middle.
      Under that bill, the taxpayers would still have to foot more than $16 million of the recommended improvements to Center Middle.
      The school board has tentatively set a work session in January to consider the findings of the entire 600-page OFCC report on Boardman Local Schools, that called for 4130 million in improvements.
  Sun., Dec. 7: Community Christmas At Boardman Park  
  December 4, 2014 Edition  
     Gather your family and friends and come out to Boardman’s Community Christmas. Enjoy the many activities taking place. Beginning at 4:00 p.m., bring some natural decorations and decorate one of the park’s pine trees. Some decorating examples include pine cones covered in peanut butter, bird seed, cereal/popcorn strings, bagels, orange slices---use your imagination and have fun with it! Reserve a tree by calling the Park Office at 330-726-8105 or e-mailing Angela at angela@boardmanpark.com. Santa will be arriving by fire truck at 4:20 p.m. At Olde St. James Meeting House, enjoy some cookies and hot chocolate while listening to Christmas music and caroling led by Tom Ruggieri and Linda Smrek and The Boardman High School Band beginning at 4:30 p.m. The lighting of the Community Christmas Tree will take place at 4:45 p.m.
      All activities are free and will take place near the Gazebo and St. James Church.
      Donations of canned goods for Second Harvest Food Bank will be accepted.
  Boar's Head & Yule Log Festival  
  December 4, 2014 Edition  
     Tickets are now on sale for the 54th annual Boar’s Head & Yule Log Festival. The festival, one of the longest running such festivals in the country, will take place January 4, 2015 at 1:30 p.m. and 4:30 p.m., at St. John’s Episcopal Church, 323 Wick Avenue, Youngstown.
      Performance tickets are $6 each. Dinner tickets with preferred performance seating are available for $20. One dinner will be served at 3:15. It is a traditional roast beef feast complete with wassail.
      The annual festival is a unique offering of praise to Jesus Christ at his Epiphany and features the Boar’s Head & Yule Log Festival Choir & Brass. This year it will once again include bagpipers, drummers, and a cast of approximately 100 St. John’s parishioners dressed in medieval costume as well as other surprises.
      Tickets may be purchased in the church office from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. Monday through Thursday, until Noon on Fridays or by sending a stamped, self-addressed envelope to the church, “Attn: Boar’s Head”, 323 Wick Avenue, Youngstown, OH 44503-1095. Include a note indicating performance time and make check payable to “St. John’s Episcopal Church.” The deadline for orders via mail is Tuesday, December 23. New this year is the option to buy performance tickets online through our website www.stjohnohio.org. Dinner/performance tickets are not available online.
      The church is ADA-accessible and free parking is available in the church lot as well as at the public library and in the Y.S.U. parking lot across from the church on Wick Avenue.
      For additional information, call the church at 330-743-3175, visit the website: www.stjohnohio.org or email stjohnohio@gmail.com.
  Animal Charity Open House  
  December 4, 2014 Edition  
     The Animal Charity Humane Society, 4140 Market St., will hold a Holiday Open House on Sat., Dec. 6, 2014 from 11:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m.
      Planned activities include, cookies and hot chocolate, giving tree (what our dogs need), photo with Santa (there is a charge), raffle for one dog and one cat extra large Christmas basket. The public is welcome.
  Sister Jerome's Poor Receives $5000 Student Sponsorhip  
  November 20, 2014 Edition  
photo by Joan Yanchick
     Sister Jerome’s Poor, a program dedicated to helping working families and college bound students in financial need, graciously announces that Valley Electric Consolidated, Inc. has awarded a $5,000 grant to Sister Jerome’s Poor to sponsor a bright city college student. VEC will also provide mentoring for the student. As sponsor advisor, Tricia Ferry of the VEC team will mentor the selected student, Brianna Spatafore, who will graduate from Easter Gateway Community College in June 2015, and will then continue her program in elementary education at Youngstown State University. The check for sponsorship was presented to Sister Jerome Corcoran at the VEC Global Training Center The grant represents the core values which Rex Ferry, President and CEO, promotes: “Faith, Family, and Community, building for generations to come. Brianna is one of 12 high school graduates who are carefully selected and they have four requirements that they have to meet: they must keep up their grades, they must hold down a part-time job, they must obey school regulations, and they must manage their money well. Students are carefully selected and the goal for these students must be clear, graduation. Students are given cards, not cash, for gas, food, clothing and other needs. Pictured: Brianna Spatafore, the recipient, her mother, Darla Scott, Jim Bluedorn, President of VEC Community Fund, members of the VEC staff, Sister Jerome Corcoran, volunteer director of Sister Jerome’s Poor, and Sister Mary Dunn, volunteer mentor. “Only through education, college or the trades, can we help city youth earn a better salary and a better life”, expressed by Sister Jerome. Sister Jerome’s Poor is making a serious effort to help these selected city kids. This effort costs $5,000 per student, per year. For more information or to join in helping these deserving kids with a donation, visit sisterjeromespoor.org or call 330-792-7636.
     
  Boardman Middle Schools Band Holiday Concert  
  November 20, 2014 Edition  
     The Boardman Middle Schools will present a 5th and 7th grade band holiday concert on Thurs., Dec. 11 at 7:00 p.m. in the Boardman High School Performing Arts Center.
      The concert will open with the 7th grade jazz ensemble. Many students are featured on improvisation solos in various musical styles from both Center and Glenwood Middle School.
      This concert continues with the 5th and 7th grade bands combined from Center and Glenwood. Popular favorites include Stronger as recorded by Kelly Clarkson and Happy from Despicable Me 2. The bands will perform many holiday favorites, including Jingle Bells, Jolly Old St. Nicholas and Jingle Bell Rock.
      Admission/donations accepted at the door: Adults $3, Students $2, Senior Citizens and Children under 10 Free.
     
  Easy Street Productions  
  Miracle On Easy Street Dec 19-21:   November 20, 2014 Edition  
     Easy Street Productions will present ‘Miracle on Easy Street’, Youngstown’s original Christmas Spectacular, From Dec. 19-21 at Edward W. Powers Auditorium/DeYor Performing Arts Center in downtown Youngstown. Performances are Fri., Dec. 19 at 7:30 p.m., Sat., Dec. 20 at 2:30 p.m. and 7:30 p.m. and Sun., Dec. 21 at 2:30 p.m.
      For tickets or more information call 330-743-8555 or visit www.easystreetshows.com. Group discounts and gift certificates available.
  Boardman Trustees Add New Police Officers  
  November 20, 2014 Edition  
     Meeting last week, Boardman Trustees added three officers to the Boardman Police Department. All three will be replacement positions for Paul Poulos, who has been assigned full time to the Boardman Local Schools, as well as Officers Mike Longo and Bryan Butto, who resigned from the BPD.
      With the hiring of Officers Nick Newland, Evan Beil and Dan Baker, manpower at the Boardman Police Department now totals 58 officers, according to Chief Jack Nichols. Pictured, from left, Nick Newland, Eva Beil, Dan Baker and Police Chief Jack Nichols.
      Nick Newland
      Officer Newland is 25-years-old, married, and resides in Boardman with his wife, Eileen, and one son.
      Newland grew up in Boardman and graduated from Boardman High School in 2007. He enlisted in the U.S. Marine Corps after high school and served active duty until his honorable discharge in 2012. He completed his Ohio Police Officers Training Association (OPOTA) certification at YSU in June, 2013.
      Newland worked as a part-time police officer with the Coitsville Township Police Department since Mar., 2014. He also worked as a part-time police officer with the Mill Creek Metro-Park Police Department from June, 2013 to Apr., 2014.
      Evan Beil
      Officer Beil is 23-years-old, single, and resides in Boardman. He has resided his entire life in Boardman, and graduated from Boardman High School in 2010. Beil attended Kent State University Police Academy in 2013 and also YSU Police Academy in 2014 and received his OPOTA certification in May, 2014. Beil worked as a part-time Front End Coordinator/Cashier at Giant Eagle and has been employed with Giant Eagle since June 2010. He worked as a reserve police officer with the Brookfield PD since June, 2014 and also worked as a reserve/part-time police officer with the Mill Creek Metro Parks PD.
      Dan Baker
      Officer Baker is 24-years-old, single, and resides in Struthers. He graduated from Struthers High School in 2008 and received his OPOTA certification from the YSU Police Academy in Dec., 2011. Baker has worked as a part-time police officer with the Campbell PD, Poland Township PD, Lowellville PD, Coitsville PD, HMHP (St. E’s Hospital) PD, and Mahoning County Sheriff’s Department.
     
  A Heartfelt Plea For A Puppy Named Gizmo  
  Beloved Pet Lost In Boardman:   November 17, 2014 Edition  
     Six weeks ago my daughter, with her young Shih-Tsu puppy named Gizmo, moved into an apartment complex on Tippecanoe Rd in Canfield.
      Three days later while she was at work, a repairman employed by the complex, entered her apartment, left a door to the outside open, and little Gizmo made his escape to the unknown. To this day, Nov. 17, we have not heard one word where he could be. He is in need of his meds.
      He is orange in color, has a micro-chip in his neck containing all the pertinent information you will need to contact his owner. At one time, he had a dark blue collar with two tags to identify his ownership.
      If you are the lucky persons to have found him, you can take him to a veterinarian who would be able to read the his chip. We all would be so grateful for you to call one of the telephone numbers below to make arrangements for us to pick him up. May daughter and her four year old granddaughter have grieved something awful over the loss of our puppy.
      Our family wishes to thank the many volunteers who joined us in searching for our little Gizmo in neighborhoods in the Boardman area. Also to the wonderful people she works with who contributed for the flashing sign on Route 224. We will NEVER forget you and your labor of love.
      Please contact us at one of the telephone numbers listed below and make arrangements for us to pick him up. We want to have him to help us celebrate a Blessed Thanksgiving and we know you will have one too if you will be honest and return our little Gizmo to his rightfully loved family.
      Written by a broken-hearted in Boardman. Telephones: Ellen 330-207-6487 or Cathy 330-758-5344.
     
  West Blvd Veterans Day Program  
  November 11, 2014 Edition  
     Students and staff at West Blvd. Elementary School will host a Veteran’s Day Luncheon and Program on Tues., Nov. 11, beginning at 11:00 a.m. All vets are asked to bring their stories and a willingness to share memories with elementary school age children.
     
  Township, School And Booze Issues All Gain Voter Approval  
  November 6, 2014 Edition  
      Two Boardman Township tax renewal issues and a Boardman Local School levy renewal gained wide voter approval on Tuesday in the November general elections.
      A 3.6-mil, five year renewal tax that generates about $2.3 million annually for Boardman Township gained a 60 per cent voter approval with 7858 voters in favor of the issue and 5192 against.
      A 3/10-mil road and bridge measure for the township road department gained 70 per cent voter approval, 9187-3915.
      The Boardman Local School District had a 3.9-mil, three-year emergency renewal tax on the ballot that generates $3.178 million. It was approved with a 61 per cent favorable vote, 7187-4605.
      Six local option booze issues were on the ballot and all were approved.
      In precinct three, voters approved weekly and Sunday booze sales at Wedgewood Pizza, 6200 South Ave. In precinct 7, voters approved weekly and Sunday sales, and beer sales, at True North, 5135 Market St. In precinct 23, weekly booze sales were approved at the Posto Italian Grille, 350 West Western Reserve Rd.
      In Mahoning County races, voters tossed Auditor Mike Sciortino out of office, as he lost to Republican Ralph Meacham, 33,602-31,115.
      In a county race for Probate Court, Judge Robert Rusu dumped Dem-party backed Susan Maruca, 32,092-29,790. Rusu had gained the seat earlier this year when legal issues forced Mark Belinky off that bench; and Rusu was appointed to the seat by Gov. John Kasich.
      Re-elected, without any opposition to seats on the county Common Pleas Court were Judges R. Scott Krichbaum, Beth Smith, John Durkin and Maureen Sweeney.
      A county sales tax issue that combined a renewal issue and additional tax, billed as a so-called ‘safety levy,’ narrowly gained approval, by a scant 268 votes, 33,890-32-642.
  Dedication Concert At St. Pat’s Will Feature 86-Year-Old Organ  
  November 6, 2014 Edition  
     St. Patrick Church, 1420 Oak Hill, Youngstown, will host a special concert on Sun., Nov. 23 at 2 p.m., to mark the dedication of an 86-year-old organ donated to the parish last year by the congregation of John Knox Presbyterian Church, that closed in 2013. Those attending will experience the unique sound of the Votteler-Holtkamp-Sparling organ, that was rebuilt in the early 1990s.
      The concert will feature a performance by musicians including the parish’s former music director, Barbara Masters, who is the current music director at Visitation Catholic Church, Elmhurst, Ill., and a faculty member of the music department at Elmhurst College.
      Other featured performers will be Kris Harper, music director at St. Patrick Church, and Kelan Haynes, organist at New Bethel Baptist Church, 1507 Hillman St.
      The organ’s presence in Youngstown dates back to July, 1927 when South United Presbyterian Church, located at the corner of Market St. and Delason, purchased it from The Votteler-Holtkamp-Sparling Organ Company in Cleveland.
      Built of oak and metal and featuring 28 ranks of pipes, the organ was first played on Christmas Eve 1927.
      Almost 30 years later, when South United Presbyterian merged with nearby Evergreen Presbyterian to form John Knox Presbyterian Church, the stately organ remained the centerpiece of the building’s interior.
      Like many urban institutions, however, John Knox Presbyterian witnessed a period of decline starting in the 1960s, and by last November, it was apparent that the church would close.
      At that point, Kris Harper, music director at St. Patrick Church, approached the task force charged with shutting down the edifice and inquired about the organ’s availability. Harper, who had served as an organist at John Knox in the early 1980s and 1990s, was aware of the organ’s outstanding qualities; and he was overwhelmed when he learned that the congregation had agreed to donate the instrument to its South Side neighbor.
      After John Knox’s final service, the organ’s three heaviest components, which hold together its numerous pipes, were moved by Connell Inc., a local steel-erection company, to St. Patrick, where they were installed six months later
      Jim Wakeford, project manager at Connell Incorporated, recalled that the components ranged in weight from 700 to 900 pounds, and their placement in a balcony 20 feet above the main altar required the building of two scaffold towers and a trolley system. “There were lots of volunteers on hand to help,” Wakeford recalled, adding that he was impressed by parishioners’ participation.
      Father Edward P. Noga, pastor of St. Patrick Church, described the organ’s arrival as the product of “a rather unbelievable series of events.” He noted that the organ is far superior to the parish’s former model, but added that “many adjustments and modifications had to be made to accommodate this beautiful instrument into our space.” Father Noga expressed appreciation to all of those involved in the project.
      The Nov. 23 concert will be free and open to the public. For further information, contact the church office at 330-743-1109.
  Gretta Knows......  
  I Have A Name:   November 6, 2014 Edition  
      Good day my friends! We’ve already been walking for hours this morning. For some reason we all woke up with all kinds of energy, of course the Lab Gang leads the way, so we’re moving on. We’ve seen and learned so many things as my heavenly pals and I continue our adventure through dog Heaven! The path has suddenly turned rocky and seems to be winding upward. In the distance we notice a figure lying on a flat rock along the edge of the path.
      As we get closer Ziti and Tank run ahead to see what the figure is. A brown haired dog slowly lifts its head as Ziti jumps and barks with excitement to say hello. Tank barks, “what is your name?” The brown dog barks timidly, “I have no name.” My heavenly pals and I all look at each other in amazement, how could he have no name? As we all gather round, the brown dog lowers his head. “Why is it that you have no name”, I barked.
      My earthly master never seemed to really care for me much! He kept me tied outside day and night, and if I barked too much he’d yell, dog, quiet. One day my master decided he didn’t want me around any more, so he dropped me off at this place they called a shelter for dogs. I always felt unloved and in his way, so I was somewhat relieved when he dropped me off, thinking I would meet other dogs and cats and maybe loving and kind people too!
      The caretakers at the shelter were very nice to me, giving me a warm cage to stay in, feeding me and took me for walks, as much as they could. There were lots of dogs surrounding me in cages, and we’d bark amongst ourselves becoming friends as the days passed.
      People would walk through the shelter peering into the cages at each one of us! It could get pretty noisy, as we would bark, hoping someone would pick us and take us with them to a loving home. We all need someone to love us, and hoped this would be our day! When one of us would get adopted, barks of joy filled the shelter for we all were happy that one of our pals was on their way to a new and loving home.
      But I never was chosen! Last Fall I got very sick and soon arrived here in doggy heaven. I wondered up this rocky path and have been here ever since. This heavenly place is beautiful and peaceful, but this secluded place amongst the rocks, seemed to be perfect for me.
      Lucky, one of the heavenly felines purred, “everyone should have a name!” Squeeky meowed, “We have to give you a name!” Everyone barked in agreement, but the brown dog just laid with his head between his paws!
      The lab gang came in closer and Remington, barked, “we are sorry your earthly life brought you sadness. But just because your past made you feel unworthy of love, you must continue to believe you are special.
      I barked, “God gave each of us life and we’ve seen here in doggy heaven how He watches over each and every animal of his creation. His eyes are always on us. He got you to that doggy shelter where people cared for you, and where you were safe. We wish that all our brothers and sisters in the shelters could be adopted. If people only knew the endless amount of unconditional love and comfort we have to give. The thought that shelter dogs and cats would receive love and care with masters that cherish their companionship, brings a doggy grin to us all.”
      Ruger barked with excitement, “Take a look around! Look where you are! You are in a heavenly world, surrounded by the most beautiful meadows you have ever seen. They are a gift to each of us.”
      Dutch, barked...”and if you love to play in the water, ahhh, there is a creek that you can play in anytime.” Sebastian adds, “you are free to run, play, and sleep when and wherever you wish.”
      Kachina howled, “cmon you can run with us dogs now....even get to know those two felines over there.”
      The brown dog lifted his head and looked around at all of us standing around him and barked, “do you really want me to join you and be your pal!”
      Ziti jumped up on the rock next to him, “we sure do, but first you need a name.”
      Lucky meowed, “how about Carey which means well loved.” Suddenly we all howled in agreement.
      As the brown dog stood, you could see his head rise, his body stand tall, and his tail began to wag, “My name is Carey...I have a name, I have heavenly pals, I have love.”
      I barked, “Let’s go! Down the path we all ran, jumping and playing along the way with our new found friend Carey.” And our tails were awaggin.
  ivory & birch Grand Opening  
  November 6, 2014 Edition  
      Youngstown’s newest boutiques has officially opened its doors. ivory & birch, located at 7631 Market Street, celebrated its grand opening on Nov. 29 in Boardman.
      Featuring over 100 brands and a wide array of merchandise, the store is the first of its kind for the area. Deloran Muransky, the store’s owner, is thrilled to finally see ivory & birch come to life.
      “I’ve been dreaming of opening a store since I was a little girl. My all-time favorite toy was a cash register and I changed my outfits six-seven times a day when I was four.” Muransky, a Poland Seminary High School and Washington University in St. Louis alumni, moved back to the area in May to work on ivory & birch full time. She spent close to five years working for Kohl’s department stores, taking on roles in buying, planning, merchandising and product development before decided to venture out on her own.
      ivory & birch sells a wide array of items, including clothing, home goods, jewelry, accessories and greeting cards. Muransky focused on covering all price points and styles for her opening assortment .
      “I want our customers to be able to buy gifts for just about anyone in their lives. From in-laws to teachers to moms and dads, we have something for everyone,” Muransky notes. She also described the exceptional customer service ivory & birch hopes to be known for: “No matter how prevalent online shopping becomes in our lives, there is still something to be said for the in-store experience. My staff and I want to be known for personal, genuine and meaningful customer relationships.”
      ivory & birch is now open Mon-Wed 10am-6pm; Thurs., 10am-8pm; Fri., 10am-5pm; Sat., 11am-5pm; and is closed on Sundays.
      Additional information can be found on the website www.ivoryandbirch.com.
  Ode To Boardman Stadium: Part II  
  No Pomp, Pageantry For Site That Served The Boardman For 73 Years:   October 29, 2014 Edition  
     Boardman High School’s football team gave old Boardman Stadium a great send-off last Friday night when Joe Ignazio’s Spartans pinned a 21-13 defeat on Canton McKinley.
      A sparse crowd saw Boardman defeat the Pups for the first time since 1995, and there was no pomp and pageantry to usher the old stadium out after it had faithfully served the community for 73 years.
      The first game at the stadium was played on Nov. 15, 1941, the day after Armistice Day, when the Spartans, under Head Coach Rib Allen, defeated Sebring, 21-7, to win the Little Brown Jug.
      According to Boardman Local Schools Director of Operations, Tim Saxton, the Spartans will open play next season in their new stadium on the campus of Boardman High School. That would be the second game of the season, set for Fri., Sept. 4 against Cardinal Mooney.
      A fund-raising drive to build the new stadium began three years ago, spearheaded by the Boardman Booster Club, formed in 1981 and sanctioned by the Boardman Local School Board.
      To date the club has raised some $1.31 million in pledges of the estimated $2.56 million needed to build the new site, not including a construction budget of $325,000.
      Phase I of the project was completed this year when an artificial turf was installed at the site of the new stadium at a cost of $760,000, including $80,000 for an asphalt track.
      According to the Booster Club, $1.04 million is still needed by Mar., 2015 to complete phase two of the project that includes $940,000 for ‘home’ seating, and $100,000 for a 10-ft. by 85-ft. press box.
      Phase three of the project, that according to the Booster Club will be completed by the fall of 2016, or sooner if funding is available, includes $660,000 for 3,000 ‘visitor’ seats; and another $200,000 for concessions, restrooms and lockerooms.
      According to Team 8e Architecture, of Canfield, that has been selected by the local school board to oversee the stadium project, a $200,000, 10 ft. by 30 ft. video scoreboard will also be added to the new stadium.
      The Booster Club says old Boardman Stadium lacks storage and locker facilities. For example, at halftime, the home team gathers inside the Center Middle School Auditorium; and parking is limited.
      Now, the Boosters claim the current location of the old stadium “is a barrier to creating a culture that promotes community among all high school students, and...moreover is creates unnecessary transportation costs (for student athletes and members of the Spartan Marching Band).”
      The Boosters say that “sporting and music events are major social gatherings in Boardman and a new stadium will enhance those experiences and add pride in our community,” to the point the new facilities “could make our teams and marching band more competitive.”
      A new turf at the site of the proposed stadium was installed last summer because “more than enough funds had been raised...to enable this year’s student athletes to enjoy [the turf] for practices, athletic contests and physical education classes,” the Booster Club said.
      Additionally, the Booster Club says that “Boardman believes in creating well-rounded students with attention to academics, athletics and the arts.”
      Boardman High School’s major sports fund-raising teams have been in the dumps for several years, as attendance at football and basketball games have declined, commensurate with the achievements of those teams. Old Boardman Stadium is not the reason the Spartan grid program is something like 5-26 in its last 31 games, and the Boardman High School gym is not the reason the Spartans basketball team can’t win.
      Ode To Boardman Stadium, Part 1, can be found at the Boardman News Website, or Facebook
  Graziani’s 3 TDs Pace Spartans To 21-13 Win Over McKinley’s Pups  
  After 73 Years, Final Game At Boardman Stadium:   October 29, 2014 Edition  
     Boardman High School’s Spartans closed out their 73-year reign at Boardman Stadium with a beat down 21-13 victory over an uncharacteristic 3-6 Canton McKinley Bulldogs last Friday night before a sparse crowd. It was the second straight home win for the Spartans, who moved to 2-7 on the season under second-year head coach Joe Ignazio.
      Boardman entered the game with a goal of holding the Pups 1000-yard rusher, Eric Glover-Williams, to less than 100 yards on the night and the Spartans defense exceeded that goal, limiting the McKinley team to less than 100 yards on the ground. The Bulldogs managed just 85 yards over the turf in the game, and Glover-Williams was held to just 44 yards on 13 tries.
      While the Spartans defense sparkled, including three fumble recoveries, so did their offense, piling-up 335 yards rushing, led by Mario Graziani, who peppered the Bulldogs for 192 yards and three touchdowns. Boardman’s fullback, Benji Roberts, also came up big, particularly on the Spartans final scoring thrust. He finished with 96 yards on the ground.
      McKinley drove into Boardman territory and reached the 39 yard line in the first quarter before coming to an abrupt halt when Graziani recovered a Pup fumble on a hit on Bulldogs quarterback Lee Hurst II by Alex Birchfield.
      Aided by a face mask penalty and a 25 yard Graziani run, the Spartans reached the Canton 36 yard line as time expired in the first period.
      The drive stalled and the Spartans punted on fourth and 7. Evan Croutch’s kick was downed on the 5 yard line.
      McKinley’s next possession ended three plays later when Erick Ritz came up with a fumble recovery on a hit by Alex Birchfield, and Boardman took over on the Pups 31 yard line with 9:02 left in the first half. A second down holding penalty against the Spartans pushed the ball back to the 33 yard line and Boardman faced a fourth and four at the 24 yard line. Graziani tried to run for the yardage, but was stopped by linebacker Zack Mayle and McKinley took over at the 22 yard line.
      Two plays later, Hurst II hit a wide open Bryce Short over the middle and at the 6:14 mark of the quarter, the Pups took a 7-0 lead on a PAT boot off the toe of Tyler Bliss.
      Graziani’s kickoff return gave the Spartans excellent field position at the 40 yard line and Boardman began to drive, reaching the 28 yard line in five plays. Behind a big block from Doug Kephart, Graziani ran down the right side of the field for a touchdown and the Spartans tied things up with 2:57 on the clock.
      McKinley’s next possession ended when their third fumble of the first half was gobbled-up by Alex Birchfield.
      Boardman had the first possession of the third quarter and went three and out.
      McKinley ran off a dozen plays covering 69 yards and took the lead when Hurst took a third and three run into the end zone. The PAT boot failed, but the Pups took the lead, 13-7, at the 5:26 mark of the third stanza.
      On the ensuing possession, the Spartans faced a third and 9 and went to Graziani who again went down the right side of the field, burning defensive back Tymeon Ollison for a second time, this one a 78 yard jaunt and the Spartans faced first and goal on the 8 yard line.
      Three plays later, Graziani broke the goal line from a yard out and Adam Deeley’s kick gave Boardman a 14-13 lead with 2:51 still left in the third frame.
      McKinley went three and out in the ensuing series, as Graziani sacked Hurst on second down to set up a third and 14; and on that play, a Hurst pass was no good, as the quarterback came under heavy pressure from Ritz. The Pups punted the ball away and Boardman took over on their own 20 yard line.
      Aided by a face mask penalty, Boardman moved to the 32 yard line. Roberts broke a 30 yard run to move the ball to the McKinley 38 yard line and two plays later, Roberts busted a 31 yard scamper to the Pups 7 yard line, behind big blocks from Kephart and Vince Valentini.
      Two plays later, Graziani dipped underneath would-be tacklers and his touchdown and another Deeley kick gave the Spartans a 21-13 lead with 9:18 remaining in the game.
      Hurst exited the game with an apparent hand injury as senior Chance Young led the Bulldogs the rest of the way, showing a strong passing arm.
      However, a big sack by Graziani forced McKinley into a second and 19. A Young pass completion lost two yards and a third down pass was intercepted by Matt Filipovich and Boardman got the ball back with 5:29 left in the game.
      The Spartans ran the clock down to less than two minutes, but were forced to punt and McKinley had one more chance, 54 yards from paydirt with 1:47 remaining.
      Young completed a first down pass and on the next play a completion moved the ball to the Boardman 47 yard line. Graziani and Devon Washington pressured Young on a third down pass that went incomplete and a fourth down pass sailed over the head of the receiver.
      Boardman took over with 57 seconds left in the game, and quarterback Sean Birchfled took a knee on two plays and the Spartans had a win in the final game ever at Boardman Stadium.
      The Spartans close out their season this Friday night with an away game against 4-5 Uniontown Lake Blue Streaks.
  Rusu, Meacham, Robb Clearly The Best Candidates  
  October 23, 2014 Edition  
     On Tues., Nov. 4, voters will cast their ballots in the general elections.
      In this election, three races draw particular interest---those for the Mahoning County Probate Court, Mahoning County Auditor and Seventh District Court of Appeals.
      Seeking to retain the seat he was appointed to by Gov. John Kasich is Judge Robert Rusu. He is opposed by Democrat Susan Maruca, former law office partner with County Dem Chair Dave Betras, who last week found a suspected pipe bomb outside a window of his Canfield law office.
      The race for Probate Court stands as a no-brainer. There is only one qualified candidate, and that is not Maruca. Her peers in the Mahoning County Bar Association did not recommend her for election, as the bar did not six years ago when she ran for the same seat.
      Vote for Judge Robert Rusu. He stands as the only qualified candidate for the Probate Court.
      Another race where voter responsibility is a no brainer is the contest for Mahoning County Auditor where incumbent Dem Mike Sciortino is opposed by GOP-endorsed Ralph Meacham.
      Mr. Sciortino’s tenure as auditor has been clouded by personal issues and issues with the law.
      Mr. Meacham is a former chief financial officer of the Pittsburgh Steelers, who has an unblemished track record.
      Mahoning County needs a fresh start in the auditor’s office, and only Mr. Meacham can provide that.
      For Mahoning County Auditor, vote for Ralph Meacham.
      In the Seventh District Court of Appeals, that spans a seven county area, Republican Susan Robb is facing Dem Anthony Donofrio.
      Judge Robb has served in the Columbiana County court system where she has developed several innovative programs while on the bench.
      Atty. Donofrio has a brother who already sits on the Seventh District bench.
      The Seventh District race is also a no brainer. Judge Robb has judicial experience and innovation on the bench as her standards.
      The appellate court does not need nepotismic representation from two brothers. It needs more diversity than that, all of which makes Judge Carol Robb best-suited for the seat on the Seventh District Court of Appeals.
  47 Years Ago, Boardman Man Became First Seabee Killed During The Vietnam Conflict  
  October 23, 2014 Edition  
     It was 47 years ago this week, on Oct. 23, 1967 that Lt. Joseph J. Rhodes, 28, of 44 Woodrow Ave., became the first Seabee officer in the United States to lose his life in the Vietnam Conflict.
      Lt. Rhodes, a 1957 graduate of Boardman High School where he was a member and linebacker with the football team, served as commander of Delta Company of Mobile Construction Company 121.
      He was killed when his jeep struck a Viet Cong land mine during a reconnaissance mission two miles south of Phu Bai. Two other servicemen lost their lives in that explosion, Gordon Dibble and Jon R. Morvay.
      Lt. Rhodes was laid to rest Nov. 2, 1963 with full military honors at Calvary Cemetery.
      After graduating from General Motors Institute in 1962, Rhodes joined the U.S. Navy, graduating from Officers Candidate School in 1963. Lt. Rhodes then spent a full year in Antartica, serving with the navy’s Operation Deep Freeze.
      While in Antartica, Lt. Rhodes received the Medal of Commendation for directing a medical evacuation near the South Pole.
      Upon completion of that tour, Lt. Rhodes re-enlisted for active duty in Feb., 1967 and requested he serve with a Seabee battalion headed for Vietnam. That is how he was assigned to Delta Company, to a battalion headquartered in Gulfport, Miss.
      “From the day he reported to us, his officer-like bearing and boundless enthusiasm caught the admiration of officers and enlisted men alike,” Commander W.N. Ahrens said of Lt. Rhodes, adding “His enthusiasm quickly became a mainspring of the battalion.”
      Dibble, a father of three boys and due to retire from the Navy in the spring of 1968, is said to have re-upped for his third tour in Vietnam because of his loyalty to Lt. Rhodes.
      “Theirs was an uncommon bond of loyalty,” Commander Ahrens recalled.
      Ahrens said that Lt. Rhodes was an ideal American youth.
      “If loyalty such as his would spring from every breast, our country would not be suffering the scourges that is presently endures,” Ahrens said.
      Lt. Rhodes duty to his country and fellow servicemen, did not go unnoticed by the U.S. Navy.
      On Memorial Day, 1968, new bachelor officers quarters, Rhodes Hall, was dedicated in his name at the Naval Station in Gulfport, where Mississippi congressman William Coalmer was the featured speaker.
      Directing his remarks to Rhodes mother Elizabeth, Rep. Coalmer noted “We extend to you, on behalf of the Congress of the United States, our sympathy and our gratitude for having furnished this splendid man who died on a foreign field in order that the rest of us might live and enjoy the institutions which we have in this country.”
      Former national commander of the U.S. Amvets, John P, Brown, of Tanglewood Dr., Boardman, said this week that Rhodes service to his country should not go unnoticed.
      “He made the ultimate sacrifice, for us,” Commander Brown said.
  Good Morning Boardman Event  
  Tressel: ‘Leadership...An Action An Individual Takes For The Greater Good’:   October 16, 2014 Edition  
YOUNGSTOWN STATE UNIVERSITY PRESIDENT, JIM TRESSEL
     After winning four national titles as head coach of the Youngstown State Penguins, current YSU President Jim Tressel left the Mahoning Valley for 14 years, winning an NCAA national football championship at The Ohio State University and then serving as a vice-president at Akron University.
      He returned to the Valley earlier this year to become the ninth president in the history of YSU, and last Friday he was the featured speaker at a Good Morning Boardman breakfast held at the Community Center in Boardman Park. About 200 persons attended the event.
      “It is great to be back in the Mahoning Valley,” Tressel observed, noting “What has been done here in the last 14 years is extraordinary.”
      Sponsors of the event, First National Bank, ms consultants and the Regional Chamber, asked Tressel to speak about leadership, a word the YSU president said “is a misunderstood word.”
      Tressel opined that leadership “is not in your title or your rank.
      “Leadership is the actions an individual takes to serve the greater good...Regions that are successful is where everyone rises.”
      He said “At YSU, it is what we can do to serve the region...so everyone rises.”
      Noting that student debt in the United States approaches $1.2 trillion, Tressel said concerns over that debt ‘keeps him up at night.’
      “We have to work extremely hard to make sure kids leave college with as little debt as possible so that when they graduate, they don’t have that anchor.”
      Also addressing the meeting were Thomas Costello, chair of Boardman Trustees; Tim Saxton, director of operations of the Boardman Local School District; and Dan Slagle, executive director of Boardman Park.
      Township
      Costello provided brief highlights of township government, noting “We have a team effort. Without that team effort of the some 150 township employees, the good things that are happening in Boardman Township, would not happen,” Costello said.
      He cited efforts by the Zoning Department to stabilize neighborhoods, including 18 homes that have been demolished and development of a new landlord registration program, “to help insure rental properties are maintained.”
      A road resurfacing program that includes purchase of asphalt with Canfield and Austintown has allowed Boardman to resurface 14 miles of roadway in two years.
      Costello also recognized new Fire Chief Mark Pitzer, and cited the completion of a $1.4 million communications system at the Boardman Police Department.
      Completion of the project was done without using taxpayer funds, Costello said, noting assets seized during drug raids, ‘from the bad guys’ paid for Boardman’s $700,000 share of the cost of the new system.
      In addition, the new communication system also allowed the police department to give emergency communication radios to the Southern Park Mall, Boardman Park and local schools.
      “These radios will allow us to have immediate and direct communication with those agencies during an emergency,” Costello said.
      Public Schools
      Saxton highlighted the effort to build a new stadium at Boardman High School, saying one had been planned when the high school was built in 1969. He said artificial turf has been installed at the site of the stadium and a ‘phase two’ of the project will be the construction of bleachers. Phase three would complete the stadium project, sometime in 2016, Saxton said.
      The stadium project includes a $1.7 million fund-raising drive that to date is woefully short of its goal, with the first game set at the new site for the fall for 2015.
      “We need the help of Boardman business,” Saxton said.
      He also touted Boardman High School’s Yes Fest program that was developed last year following the drug-related deaths of three former students ‘that shook the school system.’
      Saxton said the Yes Fest provides students positive options.
      Boardman Park
      Slagle began his career at Boardman Park in 1972 and during his lengthy tenure directing the park, its operations have flourished to the point where more than 400,000 people a year visit the 227-acre site.
      Slagle noted there is a proposed bikeway from the park to Boardman High School, and expressed hope that ‘someday’ there would be a bikeway along the Youngstown and Southern Railroad that stretches north to south along a five mile stretch in the township.
  West Blvd. Elementary School Rated In Top-10 In The State  
  October 2, 2014 Edition  
     According to the state report card, West Boulevard Elementary School ranked 10th out of 2,888 K-4 buildings in Ohio. The school earned a performance index score of 112.386.
      The Performance Index (PI) score measures the achievement of every student regardless of their level of proficiency. For the purposes of assigning letter grades, a PI score of 120 is considered to be a “perfect” score.
      West Blvd. Elementary School also met all four indicators on the state report card with 98.8% passage rate in all areas of testing.
      “Our staff, parents and school community hold each other to very high expectations. All stakeholders including the students, parents, grandparents and entire school staff have a wonderful working relationship which is a necessity to continue with this high quality of education,” said Principal Al Cervello.
      Cervello went on to say, “As always, we are proud of the accomplishments of our students and the support we receive from their families. The relationships we have are second to none. Thank you to the entire school community for working hard to continue the tradition of excellence here at West Blvd. Elementary School.”
     
  100 People Attend Civic Association Forum  
  September 18, 2014 Edition  
      The Boardman Civic Association held its annual candidates and issues forum on Monday night at the Lariccia Family Center in Boardman Park. About 100 persons attended the event.
      There will be no candidates for township trustee or school board on the November ballot, but there will be a $3.9-mil renewal issues for Boardman Local Schools, while Boardman Township will place two renewal issues on the ballot, including a three-tenths mil road a bridge renewal and a 2.5-mil current expenses renewal.
      Speaking in behalf of the school levy was Supt. Frank Lazzeri.
      The superintendent pointed out the system has met 24 of 24 indicators on its state report card while operating its some $45 million annual budget with sound fiscal management.
      A five-year forecast for the district indicates the public school system will have a positive fiscal balance through 2019, Lazzeri said.
      Boardman Township Administrator Jason Loree said the less than one-mil road and bridge issue is important for the operation of the road department, noting the $125,000 raised by the levy will help provide funds for salt purchases for the winter road program.
      Mahoning County Commissioner Carol Righetti told those in attendance the county has lost upwards of $10 million in revenue, including reductions in state subsidies and loss investment income.
      “We have done more with less,” Righetti said, adding in 2015 the county could face a $5 million deficit.
      Righetti said the county tax issue on the November ballot will combine current expense and an additional tax. The additional tax funds will be earmarked for the county’s justice system, including “the sheriff’s office, 9-1-, coroner and judges.”
      “We need your help,” Righetti said.
      Heidi Daniels, executive director of the county library system, said their tax issue seeks 2.4-mils.
      She said the library had a levy approved in 2010 at 2.8-mils, and the levy on the ballot will actually provide a reduction in taxes.
      “This levy will actually reduced taxes to the library by 11 per cent, without disrupting services,” Daniels offered.
      County Auditor’s Race
      Addressing members of the Civic Association were candidates for county auditor---incumbent and embattled auditor Mike Sciortino and his GOP challenger, Ralph Meacham, a former CFO of the Pittsburgh Steelers.
      Meacham said He called the sales tax “onerous and regressive,” noting if elected, “I would like to help reduce those taxes in the future,”
      Sciortino is embattled in his seat, facing a variety of allegations lodged by the state attorney general.
      He said he supported the sales tax, noting that he stands with Mahoning County sheriff’s deputies---”We need this tax because it is the right thing to do,” Sciortino said.
      Perhaps alluding to the legal issues he faces, Sciortino noted “These are dire times, don’t get side-tracked by the distractions.”
      County Probate Judge’s Race
      The county probate judge’s race features current probate Judge Robert Rusu facing Dem party challenger Susan Maruca.
      Rusu gained the seat by appointment of Ohio Gov. John Kasich, after Democrat Mark Belinky was forced out of office earlier this year in the face of legal problems he created during his campaigns for the seat.
      Maruca said her career in probate court began two decades agio and pointed out “My passion is helping families.”
      Rusu, a former president of the Mahoning County Bar Association, noted during his legal career that he has handled more than 1200 cases before the probate court. Since being appointed to the probate judgeship, Rusu said the court has been run effectively and efficiently.
      He also noted the probate court is responsible for 39 appointments to various boards in Mahoning County.
      “I will make sure we make good appointments,” Rusu pledged.
      Seventh District Court of Appeals
      Squaring off for a seat on the appellate court vacated by the retirement of Judge Joseph Vukovich are Judge Carol Robb and Atty. Anthony Donofrio.
      Robb pointed out she served four years as a magistrate in the Columbiana County Court of Common Pleas for four years, before being elected as a Columbiana County Municipal Court Judge in 2005.
      During her tenure on the bench, she noted she fostered several programs to provide assistance to individuals with unique needs, such as a program to aids those with mental health issues, and another to aid those with economic issues.
      Both programs has been used as models in other courts in Ohio.
      “I am here to earn your respect, so I can gain your support,” Robb said,
      Atty. Donofrio never directly mentioned that his brother already sits in the Seventh District bench, but did note his father once sat on the appeals bench that he now seeks.
      “This has been a lifelong ambition for me,” Donofrio said.
      59th District State Representative
      Incumbent Democrat Ron Gerberry is seeking re-election to the seat and if elected, it will be his last term in the Ohio House of Representatives due to term limitations.
      His is opposed by GOP candidate Paul Mitchell.
      Their race was distinguished by opinions on ‘Common Core standards for education.
      State education chiefs and governors in 48 states came together to develop the ‘Common Core,’ a set of clear college and career-ready standards for kindergarten through 12th grade in English language arts/literacy and mathematics. Today, 43 states have voluntarily adopted and are working to implement the standards, which are designed to ensure that students graduating from high school are prepared to take credit bearing introductory courses in two- or four-year college programs or enter the workforce.
      Rep. Gerberry said he supported the standards, Mitchell said he did not support the standards.
  MAHONING COUNTY PROBATE JUDGE ROBERT RUSU  
  September 18, 2014 Edition  
     MAHONING COUNTY PROBATE JUDGE ROBERT RUSU, pictured, spoke of his extensive experience in probate law, and also pledged to make responsible appointments to some 39 positions if he gains election to the seat in the November general elections. Rusu will be opposed by Atty. Susan Maruca, who failed to gain the endorsement of the Mahoning County Bar Association for the probate judgeship. Rusu has been endorsed by the bar association. Rusu is pictured as he spoke to members of the Boardman Civic Association on Monday night in Boardman Park.
  BHS Class of 1965 Reunion  
  September 18, 2014 Edition  
     The Boardman High School ‘Class of 1965’ has begun making plans for their 50th class reunion on Aug. 29, 2015.
      The committee is looking for current addresses of classmates. To contact the reunion group with names, addresses, phone numbers and email addresses, please contact either THeresa (Lopac) Cannon at 330-758-1339 or email jctc7464@yahoo.com or Waldene (Burnett) Kane at 330-726-9236 or email waljkne@icloud.com.
  Boardman Football Stadium History  
  Ode To Boardman Stadium:   by John A. Darnell Jr, Assoc Editor   August 21, 2014 Edition  
     It was on Feb. 12, 1941, the Board of Education of the Boardman Rural School met to discuss the construction of a 2,000-seat football stadium for their Spartan grid team.
      Presiding over the school board was its president, Lloyd Dalby. Other members of the board were W.K. Allsopp, Joseph Miller, Myron Agnew and Fred Green.
      They met with architects Otto Kling and Robert Medicus, who offered several different plans for a stadium.
      Within two months, on Apr. 7, 1941, the school board approved letting bids for the construction of a reinforced, ‘concrete’ stadium, under plans drawn-up by Medicus.
      According to old Boardman Rural School records, the school board wanted to “get underway with building the project as soon as possible.”
      Erected in the summer of 1941 at a cost of $16,000, the new stadium was financed through a one-mil bond issue.
      As noted in the Boardman HS yearbook of 1942, the new stadium “was fully completed and ready for play on Nov. 15, 1941 the Saturday after Armistice Day.”
      That 1941 Spartans football team, under the direction of Head Coach Rib Allen featured a nine-game schedule, but the team was considered “quite question mark a few weeks before the season opened” in mid-September against Newton Falls.
      Allen’s Spartan charges answered any questions, reeling-off three, straight shutout wins---over the Falls (27-0), Lowellville (26-0) and Lisbon (26-0).
      Austintown stopped the win streak, besting the Spartans 26-13, and that was followed by a 3-0 loss Boardman suffered at the hands of Louisville.
      The Spartans then charged to three, straight wins, over Columbiana, East Palestine and Minerva, to set the stage for the big game in the brand new stadium, against Sebring at a time when both teams played for the coveted ‘Little Brown Jug.’
      The capacity crowd was brought to its feet when Boardman’s George Sullivan romped 65 yards for a touchdown on the first play of the game, and the Spartans claimed a 21-0 victory to finish at 7-2 on the season, including five, shutout wins.
      In the early years of Boardman Stadium, the Spartans were virtually unbeatable at home.
      In 1942, the Spartans under Allen went unbeaten at 9-0, outscoring their opponents by a huge margin, 349-6.
      Boardman opened the 1943 season on a 13-game win streak and built that to 22 games, again going 9-0 in that season, and outscoring their foes, 351-21. The win skein stretched to 24 games in the 1944 season before the Spartans finally lost a game, 33-0, to Youngstown East, for their only loss in an 8-1 season.
      Entering the 1945 season, no Boardman grid team had ever lost in their ‘new’ stadium.
      Boardman opened the ‘45 campaign with a 13-0 loss at the hands of Youngstown East in a contest played at Rayen Stadium, and moved to their second game, a home contest against Mingo Junction. The contest marked the first time a Boardman team had never won in Boardman Stadium. However, the Spartans didn’t lose, as the game ended in a 6-6 tie.
      Losing five of their first eight games in 1945 (all away games), Boardman closed out the year in the annual Little Brown Jug game on Nov. 10, and dropped a hard-fought 20-7 contest to the Sebring Trojans, the first time the a Spartan grid team ever lost a game at Boardman Stadium, and the first time the Spartans ever lost the Little Brown Jug since the tradition began in 1941. The loss dropped Boardman to a 2-7 log on the season.
      Upon the loss, Head Coach Rib Allen noted “Thus ended the worst season I have ever experienced.”
      The next ‘big event’ at Boardman Stadium came during the 1948 season when new ‘floodlights’ were installed after a fund-raising drive led by the Boardman Kiwanis Club.
      The Spartans went 4-5 that season, but filled Boardman Stadium with an overflow crowd of 3000 fans in a 19-0 upset win over heavily-favored Wellsville. Injuries plagued Boardman in the ‘48 season that allowed an underclassman, Angelo Ianucci to gain playing time in the backfield with the fleet Bob Vogt.
      In 1949, fans flocked to Boardman Stadium, as the Spartans went 7-2 led by Vogt, Jay Chuck and Ianucci. The season ended with an overflow crowd at the stadium as Boardman regained the Little Brown Jug toppling Sebring, 34-12. Vogt darted for 65 yards and a touchdown on the very first play of the game and finished with three TDs in the contest. Chuck added another TD to highlight the action.
      At the time, Vogt was labeled as one of the best players to ever don the maroon and white. He ended his senior year scoring a school record 148 points and earned honorable mention All-Ohio laurels.
      Another standout on the team was co-captain Dick Stevens, noted for his play on the defensive side of the ball. He gained first-team All-Ohio selection.
      Boardman Stadium saw the Spartans end play in the old Tri-County Conference in the 1950 season when they finished with a 7-1-1 mark, including a 60-13 victory over Sebring that kept the Little Brown Jug in Boardman’s possession forever. No Boardman team has ever gained more yards at Boardman Stadium than the Spartans did against the Trojans, piling-up 625 yards of offense as the ‘TD Twins,’ fullback Jay Chuck tallied 32 points and left halfback Ianucci added 21 more.
      In its final season in the Tri-County Conference, six Spartans earned first team All-League honors includng Chuck, Ianucci, and four starters on the offensive line, center Duke Wellington, guards Frank Santangelo and Dick Beck, and tackle Al Hammar.
      Moving into the Steel Valley Conference against Steel Town teams like Campbell Memorial, Girard and Struthers, the Spartans struggled to find ways to win during the decade of the 50s.
      That span, however, put arguably one of the greatest gridders ever to play in a Boardman uniform on the field, Butch Anderson.
      Anderson’s feats are legendary. Playing under Head Coach Jerry Thorpe, Anderson piled-up 200 yards or more rushing with regularity. With Anderson voted as the Best Back in the Steel Valley Conference and third team All-Ohio in 1956, and Dick LaLumia and Ed Abel gaining SVC laurels, Boardman complied a 7-2 log.
      After falling 30-0 in their opener at Campbell, the Spartans returned to a packed house at Boardman Stadium and blitzed the Woodrow Wilson Presidents, 20-2. Anderson had two TDs in the game.
      After beating Niles McKinley for the first time in 27 years, Boardman engaged the Girard High Indians and walked away with a 34-13 victory. In was in that game, Anderson scored four TDs while rushing for nearly 300 yards.
      Anderson was injured in a 12-0 loss to Hubbard in the sixth game of the season and missed the seventh game, an 18-7 loss to the Salem Quakers.
      Boardman Stadium hosted the Spartans final two games of the ‘56 season.
      The Spartans faced Struthers and won their first game ever against the Wildcats, 34-12. In that game, Anderson played just six plays due to his knee injury, but scored on three, long TD runs.
      The Spartans finished the season against Austintown. Anderson, so legend goes, played on gimpy knees and paced the Spartans to a 32-0 victory.
      Longtime Spartan grid fan and former Boardman gridder Jim Nichols was at that game and recalls on one play, Anderson took an end-around and romped 59 yards for a score, But the play was called back due to an off-sides penalty.
      The Spartans called the same play on the next play, and Anderson went 64 yards for a TD!
      With Thorpe still at the reigns, and coming off a 3-6 year in 1959, in 1960 Boardman moved to their first-ever Steel Valley title with a 6-4 overall record, including 6-2 in the SVC.
      Boardman fielded what many call its best team ever in 1961, posting an unbeaten 9-0 record and ending the season ranked fifth in the state of Ohio.
      During that season, there was never an empty seat in the house at Boardman Stadium, as 5000 to 6000 fans attended each game, most of them standing five or six deep around the field.
      Quarterback Mike Shasby, fullback Nick Nardacci, with help from halfback Earl Brown, and lonesome end Jimmy Huston paced the offense. Boardman’s huge offensive line featured Bob Schaal, Mike DelVesco, Dick Friend and All-Ohio first team pick Ralph Nespeca. Though only a sophomore, the punting of Don Ross pinned Boardman opponents in tight positions all season long. The Spartans outscored their foes, 226-36 on the season.
      Biggest win of the season came against Salem, when the only score of a 6-0 game came on a tackle-eligible pass from Shasby to Nespeca. Ironically, it was the same play (this one covered 17 yards) in the first home game of that season that gave Boardman a 12-6 win over Youngstown South High’s Warriors.
      Under the direction of Steve Sonoga, the 1965 edition of the Boardman Spartans won the Steel Valley crown with Larry Tracy at quarterback, argued by some as one of the best-ever to suit-up for the maroon and white.
      The Spartans posted an 8-1 log that season, losing an unbeaten season in an away game to Struthers, 6-0, in the final game.
      A big game that season at home featured the Rayen Tigers as foes before a crowd of 6000 fans and Boardman managed just 121 yards in total offense on the night and still came away with a 14-9 victory.
      Trailing 9-8 with just over six minutes left, Tracy rolled out to pass and was trapped in the backfield. But he outmaneuvered Tiger defenders and slipped around right end for a first down. Five plays later he scored the winning TD with 49 seconds left in the game.
      Another big home game that season saw Boardman entertain Hubbard’s Eagles. Tracy had three, first half TDs on runs of 80, 45 and 40 yards and added another score on a 50-yard romp in the second half, finishing with 265 yards on the ground. The Spartans claimed a 38-20 victory.
      Among other stalwarts on that team were first-team All-SVC picks Don Fisher, Jeff Heaver and Tom Batholomew.
      Jim Orr and Larry Saxton coached brief tenures for the Spartans, as fans continued to flock to Boardman Stadium, and Orr’s 1970 teams took the SVC championship.
      Following Saxton’s resignation, the Boardman School Board hired Gene Pushic as head grid coach and his 1981 team is the last Spartan grid team to ever finish unbeaten, at 6-0, in a season blemished by a lengthy teacher’s strike. The 1980 season was most memorable, as quarterback of the team was Bernie Kosar, who just a few years later led the Miami Hurricanes to an NCAA national title. Kosar ended his career with the Spartans as the school’s most prolific passer with 2,222 yards.
      While Rib Allen’s grid teams of the early 40s went unbeaten for two straight seasons, in the modern era, likely the best head coach ever for the Spartans was Bill Bohren. He took over 1984 and before ever leading the Spartans onto the field, his first job was to take a paint brush and spruce-up Boardman Stadium. On many days prior to the start of his first season, Coach Bohren could be found painting the old concrete stands.
      It was also under Coach Bohren that Boardman added some great schools to its schedule, notably the Steubenville Big Red and the St. Ignatius Wildcats. When those teams came to Boardman Stadium, the facility was filled to capacity.
      At the outset of his tenure, Spartan fans often expressed displeasure with Bohren’s up-the-middle, run-oriented offense. But his teams won and coach Bohren ended his tenure with the Spartans as the winningest coach in the modern era.
      Bohren’s teams elevated their contests with Cardinal Mooney to new heights, as every game the two teams played at Boardman Stadium was filled to capacity and an excitement not seen since the days of the 1961 team. Bohren’s teams squared-off nine times with Don Bucci Cards, with Mooney ending with a 5-4 advantage in the series, two of which were overtime thrillers.
      In 1987, Boardman went all the way to the state title game before losing to Cincinnati Princeton, 14-6. Only blemish on the regular-season slate was a 7-6 loss to Mooney (who by the way won a state title that season). In marked the only time in the history of Boardman grid program the Spartans vied for a state football title.
      At one of those Bohren vs. Bucci, Boardman vs. Mooney grid games at Boardman Stadium, on Sept. 29, 1989, (BHS posted a 19-6 win). Ron Stoops Sr., Cardinal Mooney’s defensive coordinator for many years, suffered a heart attack near the end of the contest while on the sidelines. He died on the way to the hospital.
      In 1993, Dan Pallante, an assistant under Bohren, took over the reigns and one of his teams won perhaps the biggest upset game ever played at Boardman Stadium.
      September 30, 1994
      The Stunner
      Standing 4-0 and ranked No.1 in Ohio and fourth in USA Today’s “Super 25,” the St. Ignatius Wildcats traveled to Steel Valley country to face Pallante’s Boardman Spartans.
      In front of a packed house of more than 6,000, Boardman, sparked by two third quarter touchdowns by fullback Jim Tracy, including a 71-yard gallop, snapped Saint Ignatius’ 38-game winning streak, 18-14. The Spartans trailed, 14-3, at halftime.
      It marked the Wildcats’ first loss since a 14-10 setback to St. Edward in Week 8 of the 1991 season.
      The ‘94 Wildcats swallowed that tough setback in Boardman and ran off nine consecutive victories, including a 20-3 victory over Westerville South in the Division I state championship game at Massillon’s Paul Brown Tiger Stadium.
      September 30, 1994
      The Stunner
      Standing 4-0 and ranked No.1 in Ohio and fourth in USA Today’s “Super 25,” the St. Ignatius Wildcats traveled to Steel Valley country to face Pallante’s Boardman Spartans.
      In front of a packed house of more than 6,000, Boardman, sparked by two third quarter touchdowns by fullback Jim Tracy, including a 71-yard gallop, snapped Saint Ignatius’ 38-game winning streak, 18-14. The Spartans trailed, 14-3, at halftime.
      It marked the Wildcats’ first loss since a 14-10 setback to St. Edward in Week 8 of the 1991 season.
      The ‘94 Wildcats swallowed that tough setback in Boardman and ran off nine consecutive victories, including a 20-3 victory over Westerville South in the Division I state championship game at Massillon’s Paul Brown Tiger Stadium.
     
      Notable Games
      At Boardman Stadium
     
      Fri., Oct. 25, 1985
      Boardman 30 - The Rayen School 0
      7,500 fans jammed into and around Boardman Stadium, as the Spartans trounced previously unbeaten Rayen, 30-0. Extra police were on hand for the game, making two arrests for intoxication and two for disorderly conduct.
      Tom Pipoly and Brad Smith rushed for 94 and 77 yards respectively to key the Spartan offense. 55 of Smith’s yards came on Boardman’s first possession of the game, an 88-yard march capped by a Smith, 22-yard TD jaunt. Mike Pollifrone booted 4 PATs and a 21-yard field goal for the Spartans.
      Boardman’s defense was stout. Linebacker Don Mook cracked a Rayen runner, forcing a fumble that was gobbled-up by Tom Velasquez. Brad Barringer intercepted a pass by Tigers QB Tony Donaldson, and so did Mook.
      The win lifted the Spartans to an 8-1 log, their only loss coming, 27-7, at the hands of Mooney.
     
      Fri., Sept. 17, 1986
      Austintown 7 - Boardman 0
      A Leo Hawkins 78 yard TD run provided the only scoring of the game in the second quarter. Although Fitch outgained the Spartans, 263-209, Boardman’s defense held the Falcons to just 10 yards on the ground in the second half. A Ron Strollo pass interception killed an early Spartans drive deep into Fitch territory in the first quarter. Fitch mounted a drive on the next possession that ended when Tony Veitz intercepted an Eric Luckage pass. Boardman moved rapidly downfield, keyed by a 28 yard run by quarterback Brad Barringer. A Barringer to D.J. Ogilvie pass connection gave the Spartans a first down, but the play was nullified by a penalty. The drive stalled on two straight incomplete passes on third and fourth downs. Boardman’s final possession of the game ended inside the five yard line with 50 seconds left on the clock. Fullback Kevin Nashbar’s fourth and two thrust came-up two inches short of a first down to preserve the Falcon win. More than 9000 fans watched the game.
     
      Fri., Oct. 15, 1987
      Boardman 7 - Ursuline 0
      One of the largest crowds in many years, close to 9500 fans, rimmed all of Boardman Stadium as the Spartans handed the Irish their first loss of the season after six straight wins. The victory kept Boardman’s playoff hopes alive.
      The Spartans notched the only points of the game on their first possession, covering 75 yards.
      Running backs Jason Marucci and Jeff Austin gained big yards behind the blocking of guard Tony Innocenzi and tackle Bill Schaffer. On the only scoring play of the game, the Spartans moved to the Irish 10 yard line, keyed by a pair of passes from quarterback Kris Bjorson to Ed Wroblewski; and another aerial connection to Ron Flauto. Marucci capped the drive with a one-yard plunge, and a Joe Lyden PAT boot ended the scoring in the game.
      A big play in the game came when Irish tailback Clinton Lynch was halted on a fourth and one, at the goal line, by a host of Spartan tacklers, including Jeff Kohout, Butch Scullen, Bill Christoff and Doug Velasquez. It was a Velasquez tackle on third and one that featured in the goal line stand.
     
      Fri., Sept. 20. 1991
      Boardman 16 - Warren Harding 7
      8200 fans jammed Boardman Stadium to see Bill Bohren’s Spartans top defending Div. I state champions and USA Today’s number one team in America, Warren Harding, 16-7. Boardman entered the game as 16-point underdogs.
      Boardman got the first possession of the game and was forced to punt. Chad Smithberger’s punt was downed by Eric Poplar on the one yard line. Harding moved swiftly to the Boardman 30 yard line. The drive stalled there, on a Jason Mericle quarterback sack.
      A bad snap from Center gave Harding the ball on Boardman’s 26 yard line in the second quarter, and from there Aaron Whatley skirted around left end for Harding’s lone tally of the game.
      The Spartans knotted things at 7-7 in the third quarter, as junior tailback Brad Williams four yard TD burst gave the Spartans their first score of the game.
      Keyed by a 41 yard run by Aaron Boyarko, Boardman moved several possessions later to the Harding one yard line. Williams broke up the middle and Boardman held a 13-7 margin. A Smithberger 20 yard field goal midway through the final stanza provided the final margin.
      Harding’s final threat died inside Boardman territory when Jason Triveri tipped a Joe Mars pass. The win evened Boardman’s record at 2-2.
     
      Oct. 31, 1997
      Boardman 38 Alliance 27
      In the final game of the season, quarterback Jeff Ryan tossed four times to Bryan Ignazio for 152 yards, including TD tosses of 45 and 77 yards to spur the Spartans. The hard-nosed Ryan finished his senior season completing 126 of 280 passes for 1835 yards and 17 TDs, and also ran for 329 yards and a dozen touchdown. Against Alliance, Ryan went 13 of 25 for 285 yards, and added 72 yard rushing.
     
      Nov. 5, 1998
      Boardman 21 - Cardinal Mooney 14
      6400 fans watched as the Spartans upset Mooney, 21-14, to gain a share of the Steel Valley Conference crown with the Cards. Mooney dipped to 8-2 while Boardman ended its season at 6-4.
      Boardman took a 7-0 first quarter lead when tailback Andy Zetts tallied and Jim Kautz booted the PAT.
      A 75-yard scamper down the right side of the field by Spartan quarterback Matt Sammon boosted Boardman into a 14-7 third quarter lead, but Mooney answered with a drive of its own and tied things up at 14-14 on a Jeff Rich TD.
      A Sammon TD pass to Steve Sadlak was the clincher for the Spartans.
     
      Fri., Sept. 23, 1999
      Boardman 21 - Steubenville 12
      The Big Red and the Spartans entered the game with identical 5-0 logs. Steubenville entered the contest averaging 44 points a game and Big Red fans began gathering at the stadium three hours before kickoff. About 4500 fans watched the game, as the Spartans entered ranked #2 in their region of the OHSAA grid standings.
      Evan Beard bulled 26 yards for a TD that gave the Spartans a 21-7 command, as Cap Capraruolo added his third straight PAT boot. Beard paced the Spartan ground game with 85 yards, many of which were gained with defenders wrapped around him.
      Boardman’s second score of the game was set up when Tony Ventresco forced a fumble that Nelson Navarro recovered at the Big Red 24 yard line.
     
      Fri., Aug. 28, 2009
      ‘The Renewal’
      Cardinal Mooney 23 - Boardman 17
      After mis-steps by the Boardman High School Athletic Department forced the Boardman-Mooney grid rivalry to be abandoned following the 2003 season, the biggest rivalry on the Spartans gridrion was renewed in the opening game of the 2009 season. 8700 fans packed into Boardman Stadium to watch the Spartans outgain the Cards, but lose a 23-17 game. Mooney’s defense swiped five Spartan aerials out of the air to key the win.
      Boardman gained the early advantage. Ty Walls notched a first quarter TD for the first tally of the game. The score was set up by a Noah Patoray fumble recovery.
      Joe Stoops intercepted a Ron Boyd pass and darted 64 yards to the Spartans 28 yard line to set up Mooney’s first score. That came when Mark Brandenstein scored at the 2:18 mark of the first period. Mooney missed the PAT and Boardman held a 7-6 lead.
      A scramble by Card quarterback Alex Zordich late in the second period allowed Mooney’s A.J. Fox to boot a 22 yard field goal and Mooney held a 9-7 lead at the half.
      The Spartans got the first possession of the third quarter and drove into the red zone. But Braylon Heard intercepted a Boyd pass and darted 95 yards for a touchdown as Mooney charged into a 16-7 lead.
      Boardman got the ball back and swiftly moved into scoring position, keyed by a Boyd to Chase Hammond pass the covered 78 yards. The drive ended with another interception, this one by Card defender John Stoops.
      The Cards went to their vaunted ground game and boosted their margin to 23-7 when sophomore running back Charlie Brown scored.
      Late in the third period, Boardman got three points on a Trevor Ragan field goal
      The Spartans got their final tally of the game with 7:10 remaining, when Boyd tallied from a yard out to make the score 23-17.
      Boardman had two more shots to at least tie the game. One drive ended with another interception by John Stoops.
      With near two minutes left in the game, Boardman got the ball back 45 yards from paydirt. A Brandenstein quarterback sack on fourth down insured Mooney of the victory.
      On the night, the Spartans outgained the Cards, 283-163.
     
      Fri., Oct. 14, 2011
      Boardman 17 - Canton GlenOak 14
      After eight years of labor in the Stark County-based Federal League, Boardman won its only Fed League title, defeating previously unbeaten Canton Glen Oak’s Eagles. (The Spartans tied with GlenOak and Canton McKinley) for the title
      Dayne Hammond intercepted a Reid Worstell pass with 1:36 left in the game to preserve the win. A sparse crowd of about 3500 fans watched the action.
      Nate Jones scampered 39 yards for Boardman’s first tally. A Ryan Pollifrone pitch to Devin Campbell gave the Spartans a TD, while Ian Simmons booted a 27 yard field goal to give Boardman the halftime lead.
     
  Teacher Who Is Suing Boardman Schools  
  Gets Retire-Rehire Contract:   July 31, 2014 Edition  
     A longtime Boardman Local School teacher, who was injured during an emergency preparedness drill in Apr., 2013, and who is suing Boardman Township and Boardman Local Schools, is among several teachers who have been hired by the school board under the system’s retire-rehire program.
      Meeting on Monday night, the Boardman Local School Board rehired McClain for the 2014-2015 school year at his ‘same’ position, an eighth grade English teacher at Center Middle School.
      According to documents on file in the Mahoning County Court of Common Pleas, McClain was injured on Apr. 3, 2013 during an active-shooter, emergency training drill held at Boardman High School. During the course of the exercise, McClain entered the school building as an unannounced visitor who failed to heed orders to halt.The lawsuit claims McClain was “willfully, purposely, intentionally, recklessly, wantonly and without cause tackled.”
      According to the law suit, McClain “suffered serious, debilitating and permanent injuries, including, but not limited to non-displaced right hip intertrochanteric fracture and surgical neck fracture of the right proximal humerus.”
      The lawsuit says that McClain “suffered permanent traumatic and significant life altering injuries...and will continue to endure great pain and suffering, incur medical and rehabilitation expenses, suffer lost wages and an impairment of his earning capacity,” as well as “be unable to perform many usual functions.”
      The suit seeks at least $25,000 in damages.
      Under terms of the retire-rehire program, McClain retired from his position that carried a $70, 478 annual salary plus benefits and is now rehired at an annual rate of $39.954, and he must provide his health insurance costs.
      McClain filed the suit against the school system and township in Nov., 2013, only after a claim for worker’s compensation had been denied.
      That claim was initially denied on Apr. 15, 2013. McClain appealed the denial and the decision was reversed in his favor on June 3, 2013.
      However, the reversal was appealed and on Aug. 29, 2013, hearing officer Dwayne Bodzenta denied McClain’s claim in its entirety.
      McClain filed an appeal of that decision before the Industrial Commission of Ohio, who refused to hear the appeal.
      McClain has appealed that decision in Mahoning County Common Pleas Court and a non-oral hearing on summary judgement has been set for Aug. 25.
      McClain’s suit against the school system and township will not be finalized for some time. Magistrate Eugene Fehr has ordered that all depositions in the matter must be filed by June 1, 2015.
      Other who were granted retire-rehire contracts by the school board include Nicholas Opritza, supervisor of the Performing Arts Center; and Sandra Bates, middle school art teacher.
     
  BOARDMAN TOWNSHIP’S NEW FIRE CHIEF MARK PITZER  
  July 31, 2014 Edition  
Chief Mark Pitzer
     BOARDMAN TOWNSHIP’S NEW FIRE CHIEF, MARK PITZER, was sworn into office during ceremonies held on Monday at the Township Government Center. Pitzer, at left, succeeds George Brown (in background at right). Pitzer will receive an annual salary of $72,000. He joined the Boardman Fire department in Nov. 2003. In announcing the new chief, Trustee Thomas Costello credited Chief Brown with “getting us into the position where we are now...to promote from within.” Pitzer was among five applicants for the post.
  Lions Club Offers Free Coats For Kids  
  July 31, 2014 Edition  
     For families who are experiencing financial difficulties, and their kids need new coats for the winter, the Boardman Lions want to help.
      Applications for the Lions Club’s annual New Coats for Kids Program are also available on our Lions website: boardmanlions.com and in the Boardman Library. Applications should be mailed to the address on the application.
      Application deadline is Fri., Sept. 12. Applicants must be a Boardman resident to apply. Qualified applicants will be notified by mail. Families will be invited to a night at Target in the Shops at Boardman Park to select their coats.
      Persons or groups that would like to donate to the program can view the Lions website for a variety of options.
      Questions can be answered by calling Lion Laura at 330-788-5794.
  Gretta Knows......  
  Love Never Fails:   July 31, 2014 Edition  
      Paws to you my friends! I’m awake early today! A group of my heavenly pals and I have decided to go off on an adventure! We decided to explore the heavens to see what is beyond the meadow hill where we have stayed since our arrivals here in our beautiful heavenly home! There are no boundaries here! We are free to go wherever we wish, but we have been content and happy right here, and really haven’t thought about venturing out beyond our comfort zone!
      We were barking amongst ourselves a few days ago and thought maybe there are other things to see, other dogs and cats to meet or help in some way. There just might be more for us to do beyond our little piece of heaven!
      There is an instinct we all seem to possess, that there might be more to our lives than just lying comfortably or playing and enjoying the beautiful home we now reside in! We each are given a special gift from God, something unique that has been entrusted to us to carry through. We just need to listen and trust our own inner messages to lead us to the use the gift we have been given.
      While on earth, some of us dogs were there to give love and comfort to our masters, to bring joy to those around us. Some of us helped our masters hunt. Some of us were eyes to our blind masters. Some of us aided policeman to help keep our communities safe. Some of us visited the sick in hopes to bring a smile. Each of us gave something special to those around us.
      Oh, here they come! The lab gang, Remington, Ruger, Dutch, Sebastian, and Kachina, followed by Ziti, Tank, Rasta, and BB. I run down the meadow hill to greet them! We all bark and howl with excitement as we begin our journey. Suddenly the felines, Squeeky and Lucky, jump above the meadow grass meowing, as they join us.
      Of course it’s not long til the lab gang leads us down to the creek, and we all begin running and splashing in the flowing water. The creek winds around throughout this heavenly world, and the lab gang convinces us that it is the best path to follow! I think the lab gang had an ulterior motive of being able to play in their favorite place as we proceed on our journey.
      Ziti and Tank along with Lucky and Squeeky, were running on the shoreline, when we hear barks and meows! We all run up the bank of the creek and see Tank and Ziti digging. Lucky explained that they found a large flat stone, partially sticking above the surface. As they got closer they noticed something carved on the exposed surface. We all started digging in anticipation of being able to see what secret message might be revealed.
      Once the surface was uncovered, I barked the words that were carved in the stone....
      “Love is patient, is kind, it does not envy, it does not boast, it is not proud, it is not rude, it is not self seeking, it is not easily angered, it keeps no record of wrongs, love never fails.”
      There was silence...as we gazed at the words! Remington barks out, “It’s a dog’s creed.” Ruger adds, “Yes, if we put each of our names in front of these phrases, we have truly lived our lives this way.” Lucky meows, “Even us cats have these virtues instilled in our hearts.”
      “Living a life of receiving and giving love has united us in this beautiful heavenly paradise,” Ziti barks a reply.
      “Each and every day I would run to greet my masters when they came to the door, never complaining about being left home alone, for their presence and love filled me with joy, and I knew they would return,” Sebastian added.
      I barked, “I loved walks with my master, and waited patiently until he’d get the leash and say c’mon let’s go! I confess that I may have paced a little or nudged his leg, to spur him on. But, oh how excited I was! Time spent with just my master and me! I am so glad we had those ‘love’ walks. I’ll remember them forever.”
      Tank howled,”We may not always act perfectly, but love bears all things, believes all things, hopes all things, and endures all things. Faith, hope and love abide in our lives...but the greatest of these is love.” Everyone hi-pawed and howled in agreement.
      Well now it is time for a nap. As we lay by the stone, heads placed between our paws, doggy grins abound, peace surrounds us, and tails awaggin’... for in our hearts we know love and love never fails.
      ** Excerpts from 1 Corinthians 13
  Mark Fulks Chosen To Fill Unexpired Term  
  Of Nik Amstutz On Boardman School Board:   July 24, 2014 Edition  
Mark Fulks
     From a field of seven candidates, the Boardman Board of Education met last week to appoint former school board member Mark Fulks, 658 Saddlebrook Dr., to replace its former president, Nik Amstutz, 50, who died June 20, of heart-related issues.
      Fulks served four terms on the school board and was ousted from his seat last year when Vickie Davis gained a seat on the board.
      School Board Vice President, Kim Poma, who assumed the presidency after Amstutz’s passing, said, “Every candidate was very impressive. Boardman is so lucky to have people of this caliber who would like to be involved in service to our school district. Mark Fulks’ 16 years on the board will be a great asset to the board, the schools, and the community as we face continued economic challenges, and upcoming decisions such as succession planning and stadium development.”
      Fulks was chosen by a unanimous vote of 4-0, including Poma, Davis, Fred Davis and John Landers.
      Each candidate submitted applications for appointment to the seat previously held by Amstutz.
      Fulks was chosen from a field of candidates that include Carmen Amadio, Jim McCreary, Joshua Prest, Don Riccitelli, Greg Smith and Cheryl Tarantino.
      Carmen Amadio
      Amadio, 55, of West Glen Dr., is the owner of Tesone’s Boot and Shoe Repair. He previously ran for a seat on the school board on two occasions. He holds a degree in business administration from Youngstown State University.
      Amadio’s references included Fr. Greg Matury, of St. Dominic’s Church; Dr. Ken Learman, 556 West Glen Dr.; and Tom Ruggieri, Boardman High School marching band director.
      He and his wife, Becky, have three children, all of whom graduated from Boardman High School.
      Amadio is a member of St. Dom, where he holds a seat on the parish council. He is also a past president of the Boardman Band and Orchestra Parents.
      In 1996, the Amadio family became involved with a program called the Children of Chernobyl, sponsoring a 9-year-old child, Nastya, from Belarus.
      “For the next nine years, she stayed with us and became part of our family for two months every summer,” Amadio recalled.
      In his letter of application for the vacant school board seat, Amadio noted “I have always had a passion in giving my time and talents to kids and to the community.”
      Mark Fulks
      Fulks, 58, of Saddlebrook Dr., was elected to the Boardman of Education in 1997 and served as board president three times, in 2002, 2006 and 2010. He is a graduate of the United States Air Force Academy with a bachelor of science degree in astronautical engineering.
      Since 1985, he has been a pilot for US Airways and he and his wife, Lorraine, have owned and operated Treasured Moments Bridal since Aug., 2003. The couple’s three children have all attended Boardman Local Schools.
      Fulks is a member of the Boardman Booster Club and past president and founding member of the Quail Hollow Home Owners Association.
      Fulks’s references included Supt. Frank Lazzeri, and former Boardman superintendents Don Dailey, Eisenhower Dr., and Larry Saxton, Lockwood Blvd.
      Jim McCreary
      McCreary, of Green Garden Dr., has been employed with the Boardman Fire department, and a member of its union, since Aug., 1991. He also has been employed as a fire-fighter with the Cardinal Joint Fire District since Aug., 2005.
      McCreary, a graduate of Struthers High School, attended Youngstown State University. He is a member of the Mahoning County Metro Arson Task Force and the International Association of Arson Investigators.
      His references included Mrs. Linda Smrek, Havenwood Dr.; Atty. Dave Comstock, Hummingbird Hill Dr., Poland; and Mrs. Amy Wilson, Rockland Dr.
      He and his wife, Amy, are the parents of two daughters, who are both graduates of Boardman High School.
      “Through my many experiences, I realize I still have a lot to contribute to the students and the school system, and would appreciate this opportunity to become more involved to help shape the future,” McCreary stated in his letter of application for Amstutz’s seat.
      Joshua Prest
      Prest, of Ewing Rd., graduated from Boardman High School in 2009 and from Youngstown State University in 2013, earning a bachelor of arts degree in political science. While at YSU, Prest was appointed as a student member to the university’s board of trustees. From May, 2011 to Aug., 2011, he served as an intern in the office of Congressman Bill Johnson; and in 2012 he was a member of the campaign committee for the Committee to Re-Elect Seventh District Court of Appeals Judge Mary DeGenrao.
      He is currently employed as a regional representative for eastern Ohio with State treasurer Josh Mandel.
      Prest has been a member of the Boardman Relay for Life Committee since 2009.
      His references included Scott Schulick. Seville Dr., Canfield; John Torek, Glenridge Dr.; and Danielle Procopio, Ashley Circle, Austintown.
      Don Riccitelli
      Riccitelli, 35, of Green Garden Dr., is a graduate of McDonald High School and attended Youngstown State University from 1997-2000.
      His wife, Karen, is an intervention specialist at Boardman High School and the couple has two children who are currently attended Boardman Schools.
      Since Mar., 2013, Riccitelli has been employed as a sales/leasing consultant with Stadium GM. From Mar., 2005 to mar., 2013, he was employed as project manager/development with the W.C.Zabel Co.
      Riccitelli is a director/coach of the Boardman girls youth basketball program and a freshman coach with the Boardman High School Lady Spartans freshman team.
      His references included Denise Gorki, Boardman High School athletic director; State Sen. Joe Schiavoni, Westport Dr.; and Boardman HS head girls basketball coach Jeff Hammerton, Deer Run Dr.
      In his letter of interest for a seat on the school board, Riccitelli noted “Throughout my years living in Boardman, I have been extremely impressed with all of the things that Boardman has to offer its schools and its community. I feel honored to have been involved in many aspects of the community, from fund raisers to creating a youth girls basketball league. It seems as though I have become the ‘go-to’ person to help organize and carry out projects, from conception to completion. I enjoy being involved in the schools and community projects/events...
      “I have been looking for ways to become more involved within out Boardman community and I feel that I could absolutely contribute to the ongoing success of our community.”
      Greg Smith
      Smith, 49, of Twin Oaks Ct., is chairman of the board of Compco Industires; and president of Captured Moments Art Inc., (photo-realism art and photography). He is a 1984 graduate of Boardman High School and holds a bachelor of science degree in business marketing from Miami University, and a masters of business administration degree from the University of Nebraska-Lincoln/Gallup University. In 1985 he served as an intern with Cong. Bob McEwan.
      He is a member of Toastmasters #408, Argus Lodge #545 F&AM, the Youngstown Shrine Club and has been a volunteer with Junior Achievement since 1988.
      His references included Jim Tressel, president of Youngstown State University; Rev. Sean Kelly, pastor at Greenford Christian Church; Dr. John Maxwell (via his administrator Linda Eggers) and Atty. Joe Houser, who serves as judge at Boardman Court.
      Smith and his wife, Nancy, have four children, none of whom have attended Boardman Local Schools.
      In a brief biography submitted with his application for Amstutz’s seat, Smith noted he has “vast experience with teamsters, unions and both volunteer and for-profit staffs.”
      Smith is a member of the board of directors of the Bruce Lee Foundation, and holds certifications from Tony Robbins Neuro-Linguistic Programming and Ken Blanchard in Situational Leadership. He is also certified as a Jeet Kune Do instructor and holds a sixth degree black belt in Kempo Martial.
      Cheryl Tarantino
      Tarantino, of Greenfield Dr., has served since Aug., 2013 as executive director of Northeast Ohio Adoption Services. A 1982 graduate of Boardman High School, she earned a bachelor of arts degree in international business from Mt. Union College in 1986.
      She serves as president of the Boardman High School Alumni Association; as webmaster, historian and past secretary of the Boardman Gridiron Club; is a past president of the Boardman High School PTA; serves on the Boardman Community Baseball board of directors and served on Boardman Local School levy committees in 2006 and 2012.
      Her references included Supt. Frank Lazzeri, Mark Luke, Tanglewood Dr., and Rich Shafer, Truesdale Rd.
      Fulks was chosen by a unanimous vote of 4-0, including Poma, Davis, Fred Davis and John Landers. He will be sworn in at the board’s meeting on Mon., July 28.
      “The selection we are required to make is a privilege and obviously one to be taken seriously, with the best interest of Boardman Schools at heart,” Poma told her follow board members prior to scheduling interviews with the finalists for Amtutz’s seat.
  School District Has Guidelines On Cyber Information, Use Of Computers  
  July 17, 2014 Edition  
     “E-mails travel over the internet where unauthorized individuals may gain access...Therefore, it may still be best for parents to utilize another method of communication when informing a teacher of particularly sensitive material or
      requesting a teacher to do the same.”
      Meeting last month, the Boardman Local School Board approved policies on the use of computer programs and networking, as well as an ‘Acceptable Use’ policy and agreement for the faculty and staff of the system’s some 550-plus employees.
      The acceptable use policy “encourages teachers, students, staff and other school community members to use social networking media,” including DRUND, Trwitter and Facebook, “as a way to connect with others, share educational resources, create and curate educational content, and enhance the classroom experience.”
      The acceptable use policy suggests a variety of guidelines to be followed when “representing [the Boardman Local Schools] in the virtual world.”
      Those guidelines include:
       •Use good judgement
       •Assume all information on a social network is public information
       •Unless specifically authorized to represent [the school system] as a spokesperson, state that views expressed in postings (as belonging to the person who posted the message)
       •Be a good listener...ask questions directly and to share feedback
       •Don’t share confidential information...Online conversations are never private. Do not use a birth date, address or cell phone number on any public web site
       •To insure personal safety, use caution about the amount of personal information provided on the web.
       •Avoid talking about personal schedules or situations
       •Never give out, or transmit personal information of students, parents or co-workers
       •Don’t assume all information retrieved from the web is current
       •Do not post pictures of others without their permission
       •Pay attention to security warnings
      The acceptable use policy and agreement for faculty and staff says all activity over a school network may be monitored and retained and access via that network may be restricted, according to school policy and federal guidelines (such as the Children’s Internet Protection Act).
      According to the policy, staff members “may use” personally owned devices (including laptops, smartphones and cell phones) at any time during school hours, unless such use interferes with the delivery of instruction, or creates “a disturbance” in the educational environment.
      “Misuse of personally-owned devices can result in disciplinary action, Therefore, proper netiquette and adherence to the acceptable use policy should always be used,” says the policy.
      An example of netiquette says that “users should remember not to post anything on line that they wouldn’t want parents, teachers or future colleges or employers to see. Once something is online, it’s out there and can sometimes be shared and spread in ways the user never intended.”
      In saying that cyber-bullying will never be tolerated, the acceptable use policy defines cyberbullying messages as “harassing, dissing, flaming, denigrating, impersonating, outing, tricking or cyber-stalking.
      “Don’t be mean. Don’t send e-mails or post comments with the intent of scaring, hurting or intimidating someone else.”
      The policy advises staff members to report any actions by students that would violate the security or integrity of any computer, network or messaging system, whenever suck actions become known to them in the normal course of their work duties.”
      Violation of the cyber policy could have repercussions, including suspension of network capabilities, parent notification, detention or suspension, and legal action and/or prosecution.
      The acceptable use policy also mandates that parents wishing to communicate with teachers must sign an agreement and file an e-mail address with the school district.
      However, the policy says that e-mails travel over the internet where “unauthorized individuals may gain access...Therefore, it may still be best for parents to utilize another method of communication when informing a teacher of particularly sensitive material or requesting a teacher to do the same.”
      The school board has amended its policy on tobacco use by students.
      Noting that “health professionals have determined that the use of tobacco products can be detrimental to health, the school board outlawed use of “alternative nicotine products and electronic cigarettes” by any student on school property.
      The school board also prohibits students from smoking, use or possession of tobacco in any form---including cigarettes, cigars, clove cigarettes, chewing tobacco and snuff.
      “Health professionals have determined that smoking causes health hazards not only for the smoker, but the non-smoker as well. Recognizing these health issues, the school board prohibits smoking in all district-owned, leased or contracted buildings and vehicles. The school board may designate a legally complaint outdoor smoking area,” says the policy.
  Speed Limit On Westview Dr. Reduced To 25 Miles-Per-Hour  
  July 17, 2014 Edition  
     Acting on the recommendation of Road Superintendent Larry Wilson, Boardman Trustees have reduced the speed limit on Westview Dr., from 35 mph to 25 mph.
  DeBartolo Siblings, Eddie And Denise, Announce $10 Million Gift To Mooney HS  
  July 10, 2014 Edition  
Eddie DeBartolo - Denise York
      Cardinal Mooney alumni and Boardman natives Denise DeBartolo York and Eddie DeBartolo Jr. announced last week they will provide a $10 million endowment and renovation funding for Cardinal Mooney for use at its Erie St. location.
      The gift is the largest donation to a high school in the Mahoning Valley, and will provide financial assistance for families to attend Cardinal Mooney, as well as needed renovations and updates to the school building.
      Fr. Gerald DeLucia, president of Cardinal Mooney High School, announced the “substantial” gift from Denise (class of 1968) and Eddie (class of 1964).
      A portion of the gift will be used to provide partial scholarships and reduced tuition for families who are in need of financial assistance.
      The gift will also be used to fund some of the needed renovations and updates to the Erie Street school in Youngstown.
      DeBartolo York and DeBartolo indicated they want the gift to “complement the legacy we leave behind for the children in our hometown that otherwise may not have the opportunity to attend a first-rate school like Cardinal Mooney.”
      “This wonderful gift from Denise, Eddie and the entire DeBartolo/York families is a blessing,” Fr. DeLucia continued, “and cements their legacy as a family that shares the Mooney values and beliefs and truly cares about the children of the Mahoning Valley.
      “It’s a wonderful day for those seeking quality education for their children,” said Fr. DeLucia. “So many families in our parish feeder schools and public schools want to send their children to Mooney, but struggle with the tuition (currently $7,200 a year).”
      According to Fr. DeLucia, the Erie Street location underwent asbestos remediation, extensive roof repairs and other updates last summer. “Right now, our current location is safe and convenient. We have excellent athletic facilities and state-of-the art computerized classrooms.
      “However, our campus is expanding, and much more work is needed to make the building more comfortable and aesthetically pleasing. This gift, along with others, will help accomplish that goal.”
  34-Year-Old Mark Pitzer New Boardman Fire Chief  
  July 10, 2014 Edition  
Chief Mark Pitzer
     Boardman Trustees named 34-year-old Mark Pitzer, 4018 Bob-O-Link Dr., as their new fire chief. He replaces George Brown, who has resigned.
      Pitzer will receive an annual salary of $72,000.
      Pitzer joined the Boardman Fire Department in Nov., 2003, and was one of the firemen laid-off in 2008 during a leadership crisis among Boardman Trustees.
      He then joined Lanes Life Trans as a supervisor of that ambulance company where he duties included staffing. logistics, equipment maintenance and handling personnel complaints.
      From May, 2010 to Sept., 2011, he was a member of the Fairfax, Va. Fire and rescue Department, acknowledged by many as one of the top fire department in America.
      “The experience provides me with a solid base to improve our operations here, ultimately saving taxpayer dollars,” Pitzer said.
      Pitzer began his career in the fire service with the Cardinal Joint Fire District in July, 1999, and was one of the first, full-time employee of the district.
      He holds a bachelor of science degree in fire administration from Columbia Southern University and has completed fire instructor and paramedic training at the Ohio Fire Academy in Reynoldsburg, Oh.
      Chief Pitzer has been involved in several, major projects within the Boardman Fire Department, including the purchase of a new ladder truck, the use of stabilizing systems for use in auto accidents, and the purchase of automatic external defibrillators for use on heart attack victims.
      Chief Pitzer says he would like to re-establish a CPR training program for residents and businesses in Boardman.
      Recently Chief Pitzer and Capts. Robert John and Ed Glaser implemented a training program for fire-fighters in an effort to improve operations within the department.
      “I have 15 years of experience in the fire service and that experience has given me tools necessary to step into the position of fire chief. I want to lead the fire department into the future,” Chief Pitzer said.
      In replacing Chief Brown, one of Chief Pitzer’s first duties will be a recommendation on building a new fire station in Boardman to replace to main station at Southern Blvd. and Rt. 224.
      Chief Brown suggested to Trustees a new station could cost upwards of $3-$4 million, a figure disputed by Township Administrator Jason Loree, who indicated a new station could be constructed for less than $2 million.
      According to his contract, the new fire chief will receive a $1050 clothing allowance in his first year on the job, and will also be assigned a township cell phone.
      During his first three months on the job, the new chief will be required to meet regularly with the township fiscal office to review department budgets and reports. Trustees will review his job performance at intervals of his first 90 days on the job, his first 180 days in the job, and after a year of duty.
      Of particular interest during those reviews, according to his contract, with be an assessment of the assistant chief’s position, a fie station review, and EMS update, as well as the status of the department and its employees.
  Former BHS Graduate Dee Leone Releases New Children’s Book  
  July 10, 2014 Edition  
     Bizz and Buzz Make Honey Buns (Grosset & Dunlap/Penguin) is a new children’s book written by Dee Leone, a Boardman High School graduate who received her teaching degree from Youngstown State University. She taught at the elementary level in Youngstown as well as in California and Texas. She was also an aide for the gifted program in Alaska.
      The story is about two bees that ask their friend how to make a sweet treat. Their first mistake is to use a little flower instead of a little flour. Humorous mishaps continue from there. The book can serve as a learning tool to introduce homophones, making it appropriate for the home, school, and library markets.
      Dee’s new children’s book can be ordered from Amazon, Barnes & Noble, or local bookstores. The paperback and Kindle versions sell for under $4 and the hard cover is less than $8. All author profits will be donated to charity.
      To learn more about the book and for free reproducible fun sheets and bookmarks, please visit http://bizzandbuzz.weebly.com or http://www.deeleone.com.
     
  Gretta Knows......  
  ....Life Lessons:   July 10, 2014 Edition  
Gretta
     Paws to you my friends! I’m on my way down the meadow hill to the big oak tree down by the creek. Some of my heavenly pals always seem to come by and we usually lay listening to the creek and barking amongst ourselves about our doggy thoughts.
      As I get closer to the oak tree, I notice Lucky and Squeeky, two cats who reside on this side of doggy heaven, chasing each other and Kachina, Dutch, Sebastian, Remington and Ruger, all labs playing in the creek. Standing on the shore barking with excitement as they watch the labs play are Ziti, Tank and Rasta. I stop in the shade of the big oak tree and feel a doggy grin come over my face as I feel the happiness in the air as everyone plays.
      The soft grass looks so inviting I think I will just lay down here and enjoy the moment. Soon the labs come up over the bank of the creek. Once they stop to greet me they all decide to shake the water from their fur before collapsing to lie down next to me. Now I know how you earthly masters felt when us canines would decide to shake water from our fur....and why you always shouted ahhhh.
      After letting out their doggy sighs of contentment, Remington remarked, “this is such a happy place, a peaceful place”. Ruger barks, “how wonderful it would be if we could pass our life lessons to everyone on earth”.
      Sebastian howls, “Each and every day we can pass life lessons to those around just by how we act. We all can pass happiness to those around us. I always greeted everyone with a doggy smile and a wag of my tail. Each day I’d anxiously greeted my masters at the door! No matter how their day was, when they saw my excitement and joy, they smiled and petted me. A simple doggy smile can make someone’s day a little brighter.”
      I barked, “When I am happy or excited my whole body jiggles with joy. I jump and twist and suddenly happiness spreads to those around me. Happiness is contagious. Anyone that is around me is soon feeling the joy.”
      Kachina barked in, “I always liked to stop and smell everything in sight when I’d go for a walk. The grass, the flowers, you name it I smelled it! Life couldn’t be better while on my walk, not a care in the world just the beauty all around me. My master would sometimes try to hurry me on but I went about my smelling. What a beautiful world and I wanted to see it all. Everyone needs to take time to stop and smell the roses, as the saying goes.”
      Ziti barks, “I was never afraid to ask for what I wanted. If I wanted to go outside, I’d pace back and forth or scratch at the door. When I wanted some loving, I’d jump right up into my masters lap. When I wanted petted I’d get my nose under my masters hand and nudge it over and over until he’d reach down and pet me. If I just laid around and never asked for what I wanted my masters would think I was content and not bother me. My lesson is, that if you want something you have to ask for it. No one knows your dreams or desires but you.”
      Tank loudly barks, “We all need dog pals, or cat pals as he glances at Lucky and Squeeky. When I see other dogs I run over and give them a sniff. Sometimes the other dog wants to play and off we go. But there are times when I sense the other dog wants to be left alone, so I move on to find another friend who might want to play. Rejection is not going ruin my day! There are lots of good dog pals to go around!”
      Rasta howls in, “All of us come in all shapes and sizes. It was so comforting when I arrived here in doggy heaven for no one worried about who my parents were, if I was bigger or smaller than them, or the color of my fur. Everyone just saw another opportunity to make a new friend.
      Lucky purrs in, “I remember when my masters had a bad day or were not their usual happy selves. I’d crawled up on their lap to just lay there and comfort them. They would stroke me and tell me their problems. Sometimes all we have to do is just be there. Nothing beats a friendly paw to cry on!”
      Squeeky meows, “One lesson I learned was to never take myself too seriously. If I didn’t have time to lick my fur before being left outside, it really didn’t matter, I’d do it later. I didn’t want to miss the chance to go outside. I wanted to enjoy the moment I was given. Days and years pass by so quickly, enjoy the moments!”
      “Although we never had any school education or never achieved any trophies, us dogs and cats are pretty smart. We can make our masters smile, play and feel better about themselves. Just the simple things can make a big difference in someone’s life.” I added.
      As I looked around, all my heavenly pals were lying in the grass, head between their paws, doggy grins galore....and yes their tails were awaggin’.
     
      Gretta, a Golden Retriever, spent almost 15 years at The Boardman News. She greeted all who entered with a wag of her tail! She died in November of 2012.
      Send your animal tributes/stories to:
      The Boardman News, 8302 Southern Blvd., S2A,
      Boardman, OH 44512 or email to: gs125@zoominternet.net
     
  Jack’s Health & Fitness Advice  
  Cleansing? Save Your Money!:   July 10, 2014 Edition  
     Cleanse products are a popular commodity in the health food and wellness market today. Anytime you want to improve your health, chances are something about a cleanse will be mentioned. If you walk into a health food store, you can probably find a whole sales wall dedicated to cleanses. There are numerous products, and normally they aren’t cheap. Many people aren’t sure which to choose or how to go about choosing one. Allow me to give a little advice.
      Cleanses in my, opinion are a waste of money. The body has a natural detoxifier/cleanser and it is the liver. You can increase cleansing by changing your diet to whole foods. Fiber is a natural cleanser, and whole grains contain fiber. Fruits and vegetables contain fiber. When you purchase a cleanse, sometimes they even give you food guidelines to eat while on the cleanse. The foods that are on these guidelines, are the foods that will naturally cleanse you anyway. So you have to buy the product, and the food, when all you really need to buy is the food. Whole foods that contain quality nutrients, vitamins and minerals, fiber, and antioxidants are your best friends for this matter.
      The whole diet should be changed for lifestyle purposes. If the diet is changed, then you will have a lifelong cleanse and won’t have to worry. A big problem is that people will go on a cleanse and eat the right foods, and then after go back to eating a terrible diet, and it defeats the whole purpose. A cleanse in anyway will do nothing if you don’t take care of yourself. It’s like refilling a tire with a nail in it every time it gets low. Check what you’re eating first before anything, change that, and go from there.
     
      Jack Wilkins is a personal trainer and owner of Four Point Fitness, 8391 Market St., Boardman, a one-on-one, appointment only, training facility. Cardio-kickboxing classes are one of the many specialties offered. For more information visit www.fourpointfitness.net or call 330-565-0352. Check out Jack’s weekly blog at http://jackshealthandfitnessspot.blogspot.com/
  BLS Board President Nik Amstutz Had A Special Passion For Boardman Township  
  June 26, 2014 Edition  
Mr. Nik Amstutz
     Boardman Township lost one of its most ardent citizens on Friday. June 20, when Mr. Nik Amstutz, 50, of 851 Terraview Dr., president of the Boardman Local Board, died at Hillside Rehabilitation Hospital.
      Mr. Amstutz was stricken on Sun., Mar. 9 when he suffered cardiac arrest due to high blood sugar levels while at a meeting of the Boardman Football Stadium Committee at Center Middle School. Thanks to the rapid action of school business manager Tim Saxton, Mr. Amstutz was revived. He had been hospitalized since that time.
      Mr. Amstutz was the son of Mr. and Mrs. Jack Amstutz. His mother, Barb, and his grandfather, C.J. Amstutz, also served on the Boardman Local School Board.
      Mr. Amstutz was an active member of the school board and as such was in attendance at many, many events sponsored by the school system.
      He was a strong supporter of a new athletic complex at Boardman High School, and he had a special passion for Spartan sports programs, particularly football.
      He worked tirelessly to renew the Boardman-Cardinal Mooney football rivalry; and as well, to get Boardman High School out of the Stark County-based Federal League.
      “I have had more negative comments about the Federal League that any other issue,” Mr. Amstutz once observed, noting he would lobby fellow board members about his concerns the league was as much an academic issue as a sports issue.
      His passion for Boardman football included at the middle school level. For example, when more than a dozen Glenwood grid candidates faced getting cut because the school didn’t have 55 uniforms, Mr. Amstutz suggested rotating uniforms every other week to give more kids the opportunity to play football. His suggestion fell on deaf ears.
      “It is a sad day when your middle school program is pushing kids away from a chance to compete,” Mr. Amstutz observed.
      As perhaps the most visible school board member in Boardman, Mr. Amstutz was especially atuned to members of the community and their concerns.
      “Parents constantly ask me about goings-on with the schools and they know I will keep myself abreast of what is happening,” Mr. Amstutz said. He was good to his word to all his constituents.
      Mr. Amstutz also had a particular concern with bullying in the local schools; and was a staunch supporter of drug-testing programs in the local schools.
      Mr. Amstutz served as a member of the Boardman Local School Board from 2006 through 2009. and was re-elected to his post in Nov. 2011.
      He had a strong passion for community service---As a member, past president and Paul Harris Fellow of the Boardman Rotary Club, member and past president of the Boardman Booster Club, a member of the Auditorium 2000 Committee, as a co-chairman of Boardman Local Schools operating levy committees in 2002 and 2003; and as a member of the Boardman Civic Association and the Boardman Schools Alumni Association.
      He was a member of Argus Lodge No. 545 F.&A.M., the Ancient Accepted Scottish Rite, Valley of Youngstown where he had served as Most Wise Master of the Youngstown Chapter of Rose Croix and was currently serving as 2nd Lieutenant Commander of the Mahoning Consistory. Mr. Amstutz also belonged to Al Koran Shrine Temple in Cleveland, the Youngstown Shrine Club and the Four Square Club.
      Mr. Amstutz was a 1981 graduate of Boardman High School where he excelled on the gridiron and in track for the Spartans; and had attended both Ohio University and Youngstown State University.
      Besides his parents of Canfield, Nik leaves his wife of 17 years, the former Virginia ‘Ginny’ Oliver; his children, Steven and Elizabeth of Boardman; and his brothers, Bill (Wendy) and Ronald (Amy) Amstutz both of New York City. His sister, Susan is deceased.
      Mr. Amstutz was born July 7, 1963, in Youngstown.
      Memorial contributions to support the new Boardman football stadium may be made in Nik’s name to the Boardman Booster Club, P.O. Box 3174, Boardman, Oh. 44513.
  DeBartolo Event Raises $200,000 For Scholarships  
  Jed York: “Thanks to everyone who helped...Happy we can support my hometown”:   June 26, 2014 Edition  
     Edward J. DeBartolo Sr. was an American success story whose business ventures, sports enterprises and philanthropy all began from his offices at 7620 Market St. at Southwoods Dr. in Boardman Township.
      ‘Mr. D’ died in 1994 after his company grew to span 23 states and developed nearly 100 million sq-ft of retail space; while also developing three horse racing venues. The DeBartolo family shocked the sports world in 1977 when they purchased the San Francisco 49ers. Under their leadership, including Edward J. DeBartolo Jr. and Atty. Carmen Policy, the Niners won more games during the 1980s and 1990s than any other team in pro football, and became the first pro team to win five Super Bowls. In 2000, ownership of the team was transferred to Mr. D’s daughter, Denise; and its day-to-day operations are now run by their son, Jed, a graduate of Cardinal Mooney High School.
      Mr. D always touted the benefits of a college education, and upon his death, his daughter, Denise DeBartolo York organized the DeBartolo Memorial Scholarship Foundation, that to date has awarded over $600,000 in college scholarships to deserving high school seniors. The stipends are awarded every spring.
      On Monday night, Mrs. DeBartolo York, her husband, John, and son, Jed, hosted the annual Edward J. DeBartolo Memorial Scholarship Foundation at the Stambaugh Auditorium in Youngstown. The event was among the most successful ever, raising $200,000 for future scholarship awards, and featured a bevy of Niners players and local sports greats, much to the delight of the some 400 persons who attended.
      York, a graduate of Cardinal Mooney High School, took to Twitter afterward to thank his players who flew in for the annual banquet.
      That list included quarterback Colin Kaepernick, safety Eric Reid, nose tackle Glenn Dorsey, linebacker Corey Lemonier, rookie running back Carlos Hyde, wide receiver Quinton Patton and special-teams mainstay Bubba Ventrone, who was a favorite at the banquet,; and all of whom are expected to play key roles this season for a 49ers franchise bent on winning its first Super Bowl in 20 years.
      Also there were 49ers general manager Trent Baalke, defensive line coach Jim Tomsula, running back coach Tom Rathman and vice president of football affairs Keena Turner.
      “Thanks to everyone who helped raise money for the EJD Memorial Scholarship Fund...tonight,” York tweeted, adding “Happy we can support my hometown.”
      Also in attendance at the event was arguably the greatest running back of all time, Jim Brown; former Pittsburgh Steelers great, Franco Harris; lightweight boxing legend Ray ‘Boom Boom’ Mancini (rumored to be moving back to the Mahoning Valley from Los Angeles), Cleveland Browns guard John Greco (out of Boardman High School), former Cleveland Browns wide receiver Reggie Rucker, and Youngstown State head grid coach Eric Wolford.
      “My father always believed in the importance of higher education, and we are honored so many of you came here tonight to support the scholarships we award every year in his name,” Mrs. DeBartolo York said.
      Next up for the Niners family in the July 17 ribbon-cutting for the new home of the Forty Niners, Levi Stadium. The stadium represents the largest development ever in the history of the DeBartolo family, a $1.2 billion project that has been under construction for the past two years. In 2015 the facility will host the 50th Super Bowl.
      Speaking to the throng at the scholarship dinner, Jed York didn’t pass up the opportunity to mention this years Super Bowl will be the 49th.
      “The 49th Super Bowl and the Forty-Niners. That has a nice ring to it,” York observed.
  Gretta Knows......  
  ...a Hero comes Home!:   June 26, 2014 Edition  
      Paws To You my Friends! It’s another beautiful day here in my heavenly home. This is definitely not like Ohio weather, that is for sure! Each and every day the sun shines, the temperature is 75 degrees, a soft wind whistles through the tall, green meadow grasses, the creek flows making a peaceful sound as it runs endlessly, the large oak trees create a blanket of shade....ahh I love this place. Dogs and cats roam wherever they wish, but it seems we all pick certain areas that we call our own little piece of heaven. Since I arrived, the top of the meadow hill has been my little piece of heaven.
      Sady the guard dog from the Rainbow Bridge is making his way up the meadow hill. I prance down to meet him. He explains that a very special dog will be arriving later on in the day and he wanted me to keep a look out for a group of dogs coming from the other side of doggy heaven who have been summoned to greet our new arrival. Sady kindly barked asking if I would lead them to the front of the bridge.
      I asked Sady how I would be able to identify this group of dogs. Well he said they are a group of K-9 police hero dogs, some call them the angels in blue, and there are a few your hometown of Boardman. They each still wear their badges proudly around their necks. You will notice a pride in their stance and their heads are held high. They are known as Police K-9 Heroes, and one of their brothers named Robby will be arriving today.
      I assured Sady that I would keep watch for them and would be honored to lead them to the bridge. I laid down to keep watch. Time passed by, then I saw in the distance a group of dogs coming my way! Following them were dogs and cats who joined in and followed behind the K9 pack. I ran down to meet them and we began the journey to the Rainbow Bridge.
      We walked in silence until we reached the bridge. The K9 pack sat down patiently watching and waiting. Together they suddenly stood and all looked across the bridge when Sady barked that the time had arrived. Canine Robby stood tall as he greeted Sady. Sady told him he could take his time and say his goodbyes before crossing over to his new heavenly home.
      Canine Robby looked back and barked “I am so proud to have served my hometown of Boardman for 8 years, from 2002 to 2010. I was totally devoted to my handler and we were inseparable.” Robby looked downward as he said, “I protected my handler and will miss the companionship and love that we shared. Together we were a team making many criminal, drug and cash seizures. We even helped other area departments start their own K9 programs. I was called the model police dog, but honestly all us K9’s do what we are trained to do, to protect our handlers and the people of our community at all cost. I’ll always remember how much I enjoyed visiting schools and organizations with my handler, demonstrating some of our teamwork skills. What a team we were!
      He then howled the K9 prayer: I will lay down my life for you and expect nothing but love in return. I protect my officer with my life, and would gladly take a bullet in his place. I am sent in to find lost children and fugitives on the run. I find drugs and weapons and even bombs. I am the first sent in and sometimes the last to leave. I am the nose and ears of my officer. I protect and serve him. I would die for him and for you. I only ask for compassion and a kind word.
      Robby turned to Sady and exclaimed my life of 14 years was fully lived! I did my job with pride in my heart, serving with the police department and helping to keep my hometown a safe place to live. My handler gave me a life of compassion, love and kindness as did all that I served. You will be in my doggy soul and heart forever and ever.
      Sady nodded his head, and Robby took his last look backward, letting out a dog sigh. Together Sady and Robby began their trip across the bridge. Sady explained that his name has been inscribed next to a badge on a plaque at the end of the bridge, and there are some fellow police K9’s waiting to greet him. All of a sudden Robby’s nose rose in the air as he noticed familiar police K9’s standing at the end of the bridge.
      Robby ran to greet them. All of the dogs and cats howled and meowed at the Police K9 Heroes. I went over to meet Robby to welcome him and turning toward the K9’s I barked, “we are gathered here wanting to tell you how proud we are of your bravery, of your sacrifices, courage and fearless acts to keep our hometowns safe. You along with all the K9 police heroes standing here are loyal companions and you unselfishly would give your lives to ensure your handlers, fellow officers, and citizens stay safe. Then howls and purrs could be heard echoing throughout the heavens.
      Robby, along with the other K9 police heroes, began running up the meadow hill. The rest of the heavenly pack followed. As we showed Robby his new home, he turned slightly and the sunshine illuminated the badge hanging around his neck, giving off a bright glow. The K9 police heroes looked to Robby, held their heads high, and off they ran down the hill to take Robby to their little piece of heaven. The rest of us barked, meowed, and cheered as we knew Robby was now safely home...his tail, the K9 police heroes tails were a waggin.....Yes it is definitely a tail waggin day!
      Gretta, a Golden Retriever, spent almost 15 years at The Boardman News. She greeted all who entered with a wag of her tail! She died in November of 2012.
      Send your animal tributes/stories to:
      The Boardman News, 8302 Southern Blvd., S2A, Boardman, OH 44512
      or email to: gs125@zoominternet.net
  Emily Choleva.....Someday We'll See Her On Broadway!  
  June 26, 2014 Edition  
      EMILY CHOLEVA, a third grader at Market Street School, is pictured singing the National Anthem at senior night for the boys baseball game at Boardman High School. Emily also sang the National Anthem at the Boardman Memorial Day parade. She not only is an accomplished singer but also an aspiring actress. Emily was Annie in the Crown Theater’s production of Annie, and is currently performing in the Music Man at the Crown Theater in Columbiana. Emily is the daughter of Pam Choleva from Boardman. Someday we’ll see her on Broadway!
  BHS Class 1959 Reunion  
  June 26, 2014 Edition  
     The Boardman High School class of 1959 will be celebrating its 55th class reunion in Sandusky and Boardman Aug. 27- 31. Graduating classes from 1956 through 1962 are invited to attend. For additional information, visit the class website at www.bhs59.com. To make a reservation, contact Don Samuels at Samuels Financial Services (330-726-5921).
  Murder On Alverne  
  Came After Night Of Cocaine Use And Porn Movies :   June 19, 2014 Edition  
     BY JOHN A. DARNELL JR.
      associate editor
      Nine days following the death of 48-year-old Christopher Craft, 1736 Alverne Dr., the Boardman Police Department released the incident report, saying the Craft had suffered injuries to his face, throat and head.
      Craft, 240 lbs., was found dead in his home on June 8, in a computer room, “laying on the floor on his back with his legs on a chair,” Ptl. Jeffrey Lytle reported.
      The officer said he observed Craft’s head in a puddle of coagulated blood...”No handgun or any other type of weapon was located on or near Craft,” Officer Lytle said.
      Sgt. Mike Hughes told The Boardman News on Tuesday the police have sent blood evidence for laboratory testing and search warrants had been obtained for phones and computers.
      “We are certain that Craft did not suffer a gunshot wound,” Sgt. Hughes said.
      Officer Lytle’s report says that Marc Hamilton, 38, of 7142 Trenholm Rd., called Boardman police around 1:00 p.m. on June 8 to says his friend, Chris Craft, had committed suicide.
      “He stated that Craft shot his face off,” Officer Lytle reported.
      Hamilton told police that Craft picked him up about 10:00 p.m. on June 7 and they returned to Craft’s home where “they drank beer, did cocaine and watched pornographic movies in the upstairs bedroom.”
      Hamilton told police he last saw craft about 6:00 a.m. on June 8 “when Craft gave him a xanax.” Craft then went back downstairs and Hamilton went to sleep, Officer Lytle was told.
      About noon, Hamilton told police he awakened and went downstairs and saw Craft laying on the floor.
      Hamilton told police he could only see Craft’s arm, so ‘he did not think much about it, he figured Craft was sleeping.’
      Hamilton said he then went outside to the back yard area of the home, drank a couple of beers and when he came back inside, he discovered that Craft was dead.
      Dr. Joe Ohr, of the county coroner’s office, ruled the death a homicide, possibly from a blunt force trauma.
      As part of their investigation, police have conducted a neighborhood canvass and spoken with numerous neighbors. A canine search of the home and area had also been made.
      Craft lived alone with three small dogs and his wife was living in Tiffin, Ohio for work.
      Assigned the investigation into the grizzly death are Sgt. Mike Hughes and Det. Rick Balog and Det. Jerry Kamensky.
  The Annual Clubs For Kids Golf Classic  
  Aug. 1 Benefits Akron Children’s Hospital:   June 19, 2014 Edition  
      The 4th annual “Clubs for Kids” Golf Classic to benefit Akron Children’s Hospital Mahoning Valley will be held Fri., Aug. 1 at The Youngstown Country Club.
      Registration and lunch will begin at 11:00 a.m. and the golf tournament will begin at noon. The event will conclude with a cocktail reception, dinner, presentation of prizes and a silent auction. A limited number of team sponsorships and reception-only tickets are available. The “Clubs for Kids” Golf Classic, which has become one of the premiere golf events in the area, has raised over $150,000 in the past three years for the local programs and services of Akron Children’s Hospital Mahoning Valley.
      Prior to the adult event, a Youth Clinic, sponsored by the Tod Family Foundation will be held from 9:00 until 11:00 a.m. The youth clinic will feature three stations for young golfers in three age groups; 6 to 8 years, 9 to 11 years, and 12 to 14 years. The youth clinic will include an observation station focusing on grip, stance, posture and alignment; a hands-on chipping and pitching instruction station, and a putting contest. The Clubs for Kids Youth Clinic will conclude with lunch and each young golfer will receive a goodie bag. Cost for the Youth Clinic is $10 per participant.
      Event sponsors include Tod Family Foundation, youth clinic sponsor; Farmers National Bank and Farmers Trust Company, cocktail reception sponsors; the Charles & Alice Schmutz Foundation, dinner sponsor; Huntington Bank, corporate sponsor; Jane F. Lamb Charitable Foundation, corporate sponsor; Preston Auto Group, corporate sponsor; Bob & Chuck Eddy Chrysler Dodge Jeep, lunch sponsor; Philip H. Maynard, lunch sponsor; Sweeney Chevrolet Buick GMC, lunch sponsor; and A.F. Necastro, A.P. O’Horo Company, Cohen & Company, The DeBartolo Corporation, Gasser Chair, Hanger Clinic, Harrington, Hoppe & Mitchell, Healthridge Medical Center, Homecare with Heart, Dr. Elena Rossi, Simon Roofing, Strollo Architects, Talmer Bank & Trust, WFMJ Television and York Mahoning Mechanical Contractors, team sponsors.
      The “Clubs for Kids” Golf Classic committee includes Reid and Judy Schmutz, Jim and Linda Sisek and David Tod II, honorary chairs; along with Susan Berny, Kim Brauer, Ray Calcagni, Jean Clacko, Betty Cmil, Julie Costas, Roseann Cullen, Georgia D’Andrea, Heather Davis, D.J. Depp, Mary Dulay, Gayle Kelly, Margaret Nigro, Patty Preston, Alyssa Preston, Judy Rafoth, Karen Rolfe, Sperry Rongone, Dr. Elena Rossi, Debbie Shattuck, Lois Smith, Gregg Strollo, Cheryl Tarantino, Kelly Verostko, Amanda Watanakunakorn, Pattie Welsh and Marilyn Wurst and staff members JoAnn Stock, Allison Engstrom and Candace Madden.
      For more information or to register call 330-746-9122 or visit www.akronchildrens.org/clubsforkids.
  Deborah Liptak New President of YWCA Board of Directors  
  June 19, 2014 Edition  
Deborah Liptak
      The YWCA of Youngstown installed board members and presented special honors at its 109th Annual Meeting.
      Deborah S. Liptak was elected president of the YWCA Board of Directors. Liptak is the development director for the Public Library of Youngstown and Mahoning County. Also elected were: Rhonda Warren, first vice president; Cryshanna A. Jackson, second vice president, Jenna Santisi, treasurer; and Kristen Olmi, secretary.
      Newly elected members named to the YWCA Board of Directors for a three year term beginning June 2014 are: Andrea N. Burton, Kimorine Campbell, Christine A. Gerst, Stacey R. Schneider, Susan P. Stewart, and Breanne E. Szmara. Members who were re-elected are Amanda Sacco and Jenna Santisi.
      Other board members include Adrian Anderson, Fran Curd, Carla Baldwin Fields, Elizabeth Hartwig, Jenita Howell, Sarah J. Lowry, and Keisha T. RobinsoN.
      Fran Curd, Carla Baldwin Fields, Suzanne Anzellotti-Ray, Rita Cintavey, June Ewing, Susan M. Moorer and Mary Jo Truman were elected to the 2014-2015 YWCA Nominating Committee.
      Carla Baldwin Fields received the YWCA Board Member of the Year honor; Barbara Ade received the YWCA Volunteer of the Year award; and Jo Ann Buzulencia was named YWCA Employee of the Year.
  GMS Principal Anthony Alvino Retiring  
  After 44 Year Career In Education:   June 12, 2014 Edition  
Anthony Alvino
     Longtime educator and principal at Glenwood Middle School, Anthony Alvino, will retire at the end of the current school year. Alvino has served as principal at Glenwood for the past 27 years, and all totaled, he been employed with the Boardman Local Schools for 44 years.
      Alvino began his career at Boardman as an English teacher at the high school, before serving as a counselor and assistant principal.
      During his tenure he has served under five superintendents, including Dr. Ronald Overfield, Dick Selby, Larry Saxton, Don Dailey and current Supt. Frank Lazzeri.
      When appointed a principal in 1988, Selby noted Alvino “demonstrates a sincere enthusiasm for his position and his attitude is contagious. His attention to detail and unmatched work ethic are a testament to his success.”
      A graduate of Youngstown Chaney High School, Alvino holds masters degrees in counseling and school administration from Youngstown State University, where he earned his undergraduate degree in English.
      He remains faithful to his college alma mater, and can be seen in the front row of almost all Penguins basketball games.
      During his tenure at Boardman, he hired over 100 teachers, and served with nine, different assistant principals.
      He and his wife, Diana, are the parents of two daughters, Alison, an administrator for Maxim Health Care; and Andrea, a vice-president for Bessemer Finance, a brokerage firm in Manhattan.
      “Through the years Mr. Alvino has been characterized as an extremely intelligent, organized, cooperative and responsible building principal. His dedication to the job is unmatched in terms of giving of his time to the administration of Glenwood Middle School. Over the years he could be found hard at work at his desk at any time seven days a week preparing for student and teacher success. His attention to details and his thoroughness in decision-making are two personal traits that made him an excellent administrator,” Supt. Lazzeri said this week.
      “Though he will be leaving the Boardman Schools family, his mark of excellence will remain with Glenwood Middle School for years to come,” Lazzeri added.
      Alvino is only the third principal in the history of Glenwood Middle school. First principal was A.E. Genuske. Charles M. Bennehoof served prior to Alvino’s appointment on Feb. 1, 1988.
  Mrs. Sahli Leads Angels  
  June 12, 2014 Edition  
NEW OFFICERS OF The Angels Of Easter Seals
     Mrs. Lynn Sahli, 1017 Wesport Circle, has been installed as the president of the Angels of Easter Seals for 2014-15.
      Other officers will be Debbie Wilson, first vice-president Shelly LaBerto, second vice-president; Lynn Mitchell, treasurer; Judy Kimmel, recording secretary; Judy Manus, corresponding secretary; and Kathy Carroll, past president.
      After graduating from Youngstown State University, Lynn taught in the Business Education Department at Boardman High School. She is currently Secretary/Treasurer of Cal-Ohio Lube Products Company in North Lima.
      Lynn has been very active in the Boardman School System’s PTA. She was the organization’s president at Market Street Elementary School and at Boardman High School. She was president of the Boardman Council PTA for two years and was a member of the Boardman Strategic Planning Committee which laid the groundwork for several educational projects.
      Lynn has been a member of The Junior League of Youngstown since 1982, and she joined the Angels of Easter Seals in 2008. She has held the leadership positions for the Angels of Easter Seals as first vice president, second vice president and recording secretary. She has served as co-chairman for the Spring Fashion Show and Luncheon in 2012 and 2014. She has also served on the following committees: Magic of the Angels’ Christmas, Holiday Brunch & Sweet Shoppe, Cookbook, Social and Goodwill.
      He and her husband, Bob, have two sons and four grandchildren.
      The Angels of Easter Seals welcomed new members Jacquelyn Kadilac, June Diorio-Kretzer, Mary James Lipinsky, Beverly Olson and Kelly Restle.
      Angels of Easter Seals began their fundraising efforts 37 years ago and have provided over $2 million to the local Easter Seals. Last year alone, the Angels raised $90,000 to help local individuals with disabilities and special needs.
      Pictured: NEW OFFICERS OF THE ANGELS OF EASTER SEALS, from left, Kathy Carroll, past president; Lynn Sahli, president; Shelly LaBerto, treasurer; Judy Manus, corresponding secretary; and Lynn Mitchell, treasurer. Not pictured is Debbie Wilson, first vice-president; and Judy Kimmel, recording secretary.
     
  Gretta Knows.....  
  .... I'm gonna love my walks here!:   June 12, 2014 Edition  
      Good day my friends! I along with all my heavenly pals have been so busy this past week running about the heavens catching all the graduations! How glorious it is to see all the students from our hometowns receive their diplomas, looking forward to the next chapter in their lives! They each have an open book with empty pages ready to be filled with the stories of their continuing lives. Our wishes go out to each of them with hope their lives will be filled with dreams come true!
      I am standing here at the top of the meadow hill. It is a view that I never grow tired of seeing. The trees and meadow grass that reaches as far as the eyes can see, are still as the breeze has taken a rest. Stillness surrounds me. Quiet times with my thoughts is always welcome!
      I hear footsteps approaching and see a group of my heavenly pals heading my way. We have been summoned by Sady the guard dog of the Rainbow Bridge to come as one of our earthly pals will be arriving soon! It is always a mix match of emotions as we are all excited to be reunited with one of our pals but yet we all never forget how it feels to arrive in this new heavenly home. Leaving our earthly home and loved ones behind, as well as the happy memories, always remains in our hearts.
      Let me see, Remington, Ruger, Lucky, Squeeky, Dutch, Kachina, Ziti, Rasta, Ty, Roxy, BB, Shadow, Sadie, Stagger, Tyler, Casper, Chloe, Bumper, are all here. In silence we all head down the hill toward the Rainbow Bridge. It’s so amazing to see all of the dogs and cats gather at the bridge in anticipation of greeting a new arrival. We all know what it means to arrive and see all the heavenly dogs and cats here to greet and welcome you to your new heavenly home.
      Sady begins his walk to the front of the Rainbow Bridge. Silence radiates through the crowd as we raise our noses knowing the arrival time is almost here. Suddenly we see a yellow lab appear next to Sady. As we glance at the last name inscribed on the heavenly list attached at the end of the bridge, the name Sebastian has been beautifully etched into the magnificent wooden plaque which displays all our names. As we watch in silence, Sady welcomes Sebastian to his new home.
      Sebastian glances at Sady and then lays down. He explains to Sady that he spent so many of his days on earth laying in the front yard waiting for the neighbors and other dogs to walk by, he loved greeting them all. He continued to say how excited and happy he was when cars pulled into his driveway. He’d run over and greet them, and his body would just jiggle all over with joy. Sebastian said he so loved the children and they loved him too! I loved every day of my earthly life. His head perked up as he exclaimed how happy he was! He then laid his head down and said he belonged to such a beautiful and loving family and how hard it is to not be able to be with them. My master and I would walk together for miles, enjoying each other’s companionship, oh how I will miss those walks.
      I so want to thank my earthly family for giving me so much love and bringing me so much happiness and contentment throughout my almost 14 years with them. They will always remain in my heart and I will never forget them. Sebastian laid still for awhile and then slowly rose to his paws. He walked and stood next to Sady, taking one last look back. Sady and Sebastian began their walk over the Rainbow Bridge. Halfway across Sebastian noticed something, his head rose, his tail wagged, he saw Roxy, his best friend! Suddenly he began to run, greeting Roxy. They jumped with excitement in seeing each other. Roxy introduced him to us all!
      We all started barking and howling our hellos! Then we turned, Roxy and Sebastian were already running up the meadow hill in front of us. We ran to catch up and all stood in a row as we overlooked our heavenly home! Sebastian barked, “I’m gonna love the walks here” and began wagging his tail! ....off we all ran through the meadow grass, and our tails were awaggin!
      In Memory of Sebastian who journeyed to his heavenly home, April 11, 2014.
      Gretta, a Golden Retriever, spent almost 15 years at
      The Boardman News.
      She greeted all who entered with a wag of her tail! She died in November of 2012.
      Send your animal tributes/stories to:
      The Boardman News, 8302 Southern Blvd., S2A, Boardman, OH 44512
      or email to: gs125@zoominternet.net
  JOB FAIR JUNE 9  
  June 5, 2014 Edition  
     AUSTINTOWN---Hollywood Gaming at Mahoning Valley Race Course will formally kick off its recruiting and hiring program with a Career Fair to be held on Mon., June 9.
      The $250 million gaming, dining, entertainment and thoroughbred racing facility is currently under construction near the I-80/State Route 46 interchange in Austintown and is expected to open in early Fall.
      “We know there’s been a lot of anticipation around our recruitment and hiring,” said Mike Galle, general manager of Hollywood Gaming. “We’re expecting a large number of potential team members to attend this first Job Fair and those that will follow.”
      The Job Fair will be held from noon-8 p.m. on June 9 in the former Fashion Bug space, next to Party On in the Austintown Plaza, 6000 Mahoning Ave. A second Job Fair is scheduled for Wed., June 25, at Stambaugh Auditorium at 1000 Fifth Ave. in Youngstown.
      The event is open to anyone interested on applying for the variety of positions and also provides potential Team Members the opportunity to meet briefly with hiring managers from the following departments; Food and Beverage, Video Lottery Terminal Technicians and Attendants, Finance, Accounting, Player Services, Racing Operations, Facilities, Environmental Services, Security and Surveillance.
      Area residents who are seeking an exciting career with Hollywood Gaming must apply online to attend the June 9th Career Fair. The online application is available at www.hollywoodmahoningvalley.com/Careers.
      “While we’re looking for people to fill specific jobs, above all we’re looking for people who love to interact with the public, who are excited about working in this new industry, and who will make our customers feel welcome, excited, and happy to be with us,” Galle said. “Put simply, we’re all about what we like to call ‘Red Carpet Service,’ and that begins with our team members.”
      Galle said Hollywood Gaming will provide training for new team members in the specific jobs they are hired to fill.
      When it opens this fall, Hollywood Gaming at Mahoning Valley Race Course will offer 850 Video Lottery Terminals (VLTs), a range of dining and beverage options, a sports bar and entertainment venue.
      Thoroughbred racing will begin Nov. 24 with live racing scheduled on Mondays, Tuesdays, Wednesdays (excluding Dec. 24) and Saturdays through Dec. 30. Live racing dates for 2015 will be announced later this year. Races from around the country will be beamed into the facility for simulcast wagering 365 days a year. The racing facility includes a one-mile state-of-the-art racetrack and a grandstand with more than 1,000 enclosed seats.
     
  Boardman High School Graduation June 8  
  386 Students in Senior Class:   June 5, 2014 Edition  
     Graduation for seniors at Boardman High School will be held Sun., June 8 at 2:00 p.m. in the gymnasium. The 2014 senior class at Boardman includes 368 students.
      Opening remarks at this year’s ceremonies will be given by Frank Lazzeri, superintendent of schools; and Hannah DeAscentis, president of Student Council.
      Jared Cardillo, principal, will present this year’s class and diplomas will be handed out by Kim Poma, vice-president of the Boardman Local School Board; and Cynthia Fernbeck, assistant high school principal.
      Closing remarks will be delivered by Anna Patoray, president of the Class of 2014.
      Ten students will be recognized in Best in Class. They are Muhammad Akbar, son of Akbar Mughal and Aisha Mughal; Rachael Davis, son of Eric and Angela Davis; Emily Hruska, daughter of james and Lisa Hruska; Rebecca Jeren, daughter of Dr. Brad and Barbara Jeren; Jenna Kuczek, daughter of Jeff and Jennifer Kuczek’ Katelynn Morrell, daughter of Robert and Diane Morrell; Em Schwendeman, daughter of Dr. Leslie and Patricia Schwendeman; Katya Sracic, daughter of Paul and Susan Sracic; Erin Tamulonis, daughter of David and Jeanette Tamulonis; and Stiphany Tieu, daughter of Kelly Tieu.
      This year’s senior class includes the following:
      Noor Abu-Ghannam, Ivan Adu-Poku, Muhammad Akbar, Sohaib Al-Halaybeh, Mo-hammad Al-Tawil, Rawa’a Alassaf, Rachel Allan, Natalie Alman, Dua’a Almaraihah, Mo-hammad Almaraihah, Marni Altman, Robert Amicone, Brittany Anderson, Darya Andreyeva, Mohammad Aras, James Augustine, Katherine Auth, Noura Azeem, Kayla Bailing, Catherine Baker, Kristina Baker, Jessica Barone, Taylor Bartolec, Mark Bass, Fabio Bassil, David Baun, Jacob Baun, Jeffery Bean, Luco Beato, Rebekah Beebe, Rhianna Beebe, Epiphany Bell-Hilson, Paul Benson, Peter Berarducci, Jared Bergman, Emily Beshara, Brittany Best, Jonathan Bialik, Carl Bias, Taylor Bindas, Aiden Blaine, Jenna Bluedorn, Brian Bodrick, Jacob Boles, Anya Bolger, Jalen Bosker, Stephen Bott, Eric Bramer, Dawan Britt, Dawalyn Brown, Haley Brown, Stephen Brown, Stephen Bryan, Domenick Buonavolonta, Alan Burns, Jose Calderon, Alexandria Campana, Bre’Asia Casey, Teresa Ceccarelli, Brandon Ciavarella, Austin Clark, Katie Clones, Courteney Closson, Leah Conaway, Justin Conrad, Vincent Cook, Madeline Cooke-Murphy, Nicholas Cordova, Samantha Courtney, Connor Covan, Makenzie Craig, Edward Crump, Jarvis Cummings, Jessica Cunningham, Trista Cunningham, Dominic Davey, Desmond Davis, Eric Davis, Rachael Davis, Hannah DeAscentis, Lucia DeChurch, Megan Deeley, Brian DeJesus, Lauren Delapa, Jenna DeLaurentis, Dante’ DeLullo, Sarah Demetruk, Candice Detate, Rachel Dickey, Anthony DiGiacomo, Phillip DiIanni, Mario DiIullo, Aaron Dill, Devin DiPiero, Ashley DiPietro, Stephanie DiVincenzo, Brianna Dobransky, Victoria Dolan, Kenneth Drummond-Artis, Anthony Dundee, Rachel Durner, Rachel Eliser, Caitlyn Enlow, Amber Felger, Gianna Ferrara, Bryana Flak, Briana Fonderlin, Cory Fowler, Macy Francis, Haley Fray, Justin Gardner, Donald Garman, Brandi Gatte, Breanna Gatte, Cassidy Gaudio, Lily Gelfand, Celia Giancola, Paul Gianotti, Robin Goist, Bailey Gonci, Francisco Gonzalez, Alexandria Gordon, Brian Gorman, Tyler Grzyb, Kyle Haddle, Mark Hadley, Katelyn Halt, Morgan Hambrick, Natasha Hammonds, Katie Hanlon, Christian Harris, Austin Hazenstab, Emily Hefferon, Kathryn Heffron, Tyler Heintz, Te’Kquan Henderson, Matthew Hetzel, Jessica Hilk, Nichole Hillard, Lily Hockenberry, Jacob Hoover, Alicia Horvath, Noah Howley, Emily Hruska, Raign Hufnagel, Nicholas Hura, Danasha Ifft, Gwendolyn Jacobs, Jamin Jama, Eihab Jamel, Michael Janik, Brandon Jefferson, Rebecca Jeren, Jessica Joerndt, Abbigail Johnson, Noah Johnson, Byron Jones, Christina Jones, Kiara Jones, Steven Jones, Maria Joseph, Jacob Kelleck, Ashley Kelley, Chloe Kephart, Kassidy Kesner, Kennedy Kesner, Amer Khan, Marium Khan, Sharukh Khan, Holly King, Leah Knaus, Emily Kollar, Frank Kordic, Damian Kornegay, Brittany Krcelic, Jenna Kuczek, Allison Lara, Maria LaRocca, Ju’Kwala Lee, Eric Lemmon, Stefan Lesnansky, Trevor Leyden, Christopher Leymarie, Jon-Paul Lizotte, Sean Lonardo, Colin Loney, Donald Lucarell, Sarah Lukehart, Isaiah-Aton Lyle, Kraig Lyons, Adam Macala, Alexis Madeline, Collin Main, Melissa Maiorano, Carmen Marinucci, Jordyn Markovitch, Justin Maroni, Luke Marsco, Dominique Martinez, Marcus Masello, Austin Massey, Kevin Massie, Samuel Mathey, Kaitlin McClendon, Kaitlyn McCormick, Jessica McElroy, Caleb McFarland, Parris McGuire, Ryan McKeown, Christina McKittrick, Scott McMaster, Kevin McNally, Brianna McNeese, Peyton Menosky, Sapphire Menton, James Mikesell, Christian Miller, Eric Miller, Rachael Miller, Aaron Mills, Thomas Moody, Timothy Mook, McKenzie Moore, Stephen Moore, Elias Morales, Jamie Moran, Katelynn Morrell, Max Morrow, Madison Mueller, Michelle Murphy, Makayla Musselwhite, Gianna Napoli, Ramar Navarro, Jason Negron, Nicole Negron, Angela Nerone, Irish O’Driscoll, Christian O’Neil, Oluwadamini Ojewale, Matthew Osiniak, Lisa Palmer, Erica Palocyi, Matthew Parise, Madison Parrish, Anna Patoray, Lindsey Patterson, Sierra Patterson, Brandon Patton, Kimberly Pavelko, James Payne, Timothy Pelar, Raymond Perorazio, Zachary Peterson, Gabriella Petrillo, Randall Pfahl, Kenna Pham, Matthew Platt, Sarah Playforth, Bailey Potocki, Carrie Powell, Taylor Prebble, Sean Pregi, Jada Redd, Krystyna Reider, Elijah Reyes, Samantha Ricciuti, Tyler Richter, Jeni Riwniak, Alexandria Robertshaw, Gerritt Roon, Jacob Rosa, Ashley Rosado, Kenneth Rose, Anthony Rossi, Cassandra Roth, Stefen Roth, Hannah Roush, Alexander Rubicky, Gina Ruiz, Margaret Sailor, Corey Saluga, Darius Sanders, Julie Sands, Nicole Sanfilippo, McKenzie Sanford, Alexia Santiago, Dion Santiago, Rachel Sattarelle, Bryce Saunders, Faith Saunders, Evan Schantz, Alexis Scharringhausen, Sumner Schreiber, Seth Schuler, Emma Schwendeman, David Sciortino, Maria Sebastian, Catherine Seeco, Michael Sferra, Steven Sferra, Christa Shirilla, Christopher Shives, Annika Shuster, Alyssa Sidwell-Sutton, Benjamin Simpson, Abigail Slater, William Slipkovich, Justyne Smith, Madeline Smotzer, Austin Snovak, Dylan Snyder, Ronald Snyder, Thomas Sodeman, Joanna Sokol, Lindsay Soltis, Kara Sorvillo, Katya Sracic, Benjamin Statler, Richard Steiner, Ian Stevenson, Alyssa Stiner, Taylor Stinson, Breann Strasik, Nadya Stratton, Kellie Streb, Martin Strong, Erin Tamulonis, Marissa Taylor, Rudolph Tepsick, Katherine Terry, Julian Testa, Katilyn Testa, Alex Thomas, Gregory Thomas, Kyle Thomas, Turel Thompson, Jonathan Tiberio, Stiphany Tieu, David Timlin, Lindsey Tokarsky, Kelly Tomcsanyi, Andrah Toney, Robert Tullio, Ashley Turney, Christopher Umeck, Jared Vanasdale, Shane Varner, Thalia Velez, Megan Volosin, Melissa Walko, Merci Waller, Abigail Walton, Alexander Ward, Robert Watkins, Brittany Webster, Alexis Weeden, Branon Williams, Dionte’ Williams, Zackary Wise, Kristyn Wolf, Ryan Woolweaver, Kayla York, and Danielle Yuhas.
  BHS Seniors Receive ROTC Scholarships  
  June 5, 2014 Edition  
     TWO BOARDMAN HIGH SCHOOL SENIORS RECEIVED ROTC SCHOLARSHIPS during the school’s annual Honors Assembly. Pictured, from left, Trevor Leyden, LTC Joseph Alessi and Marcus Masello. Each scholarship is valued at $68,000.
  BHS Seniors Receive BEA Scholarship  
  June 5, 2014 Edition  
     FIVE BOARDMAN HIGH SCHOOL SENIORS have been awarded $500 Boardman Education Association scholarships. Pictured are the scholarship winners, from left, Chloe Kephart, Kelly Tomcsanyi, Carmen Marinucci, Nicholas Cordova and Christa Shirilla; and David Pavlansky, BEA president.
  Lutsch Scholarship Winners  
  BHS Seniors:   June 5, 2014 Edition  
     MRS. KIM POMA PRESENTED four Boardman High School senior with Joseph J. and Florence M. Lutsch Scholarships during the annual Honors Assembly. Pictured, from left, Stiphany Tieu, Chloe Kephart, Mrs. Poma, who serves as vice-president of the Boardman Board of Education; Alexandria Gordon and Marium Khan.
  BHS Art Show Winners  
  June 5, 2014 Edition  
     The 62nd Annual Boardman High School Art Show held recently in the high school gymnasium, displayed work by students in all Art classes. Judges for each category were: Mrs. Joyce Mistovich, retired art educator from Boardman Schools; RJ Thompson, Assistant Professor of Graphic and Interactive Design at YSU; Erika Olson, graduating with a BFA in Photography from YSU. Pictured, student award winners, left to right: Catie Groubert, First place overall in Photography 3; Niki Baker, First place overall in Graphics 3; Jessica McElroy, First place overall in Advanced Placement Art. Jessica McElroy and Sarah Demetruk tied for First place Accumulated points during their high school careers. Sarah Demetruk also received the Connie Deutsch Memorial Purchase Award. Additional first place winners include: Photo 3, 1st, Catie Groubert; Photo 2,1st, Ireland Blume; Photo 1,1st, Kellie Dunham; Graphics 1, 1st, Breanna deBlois; Graphics 2, 1st, Alex Thomas; Graphics 3, 1st, Nikki Baker; Art 1, 1st, Gina Tropea; Art 2,1st, Holly Yarab; Art 3, 1st, MeiYu Dong; Art 4, 1st, Megan Banks; Art 5, 1st, Samantha Courtney; Advanced Placement Studio Art, 1st, Jessica McElroy; Cumulative over four years: 1st Place Tie Jessica McElroy and Sarah Demetruk; and the Connie Deutsch Memorial Purchase Award, Sarah Demetruk. The show was coordinated by BHS Art teachers Mrs. Edie Davidson, Mr. Jim Cliff and Mrs. Alyssa Birch.
  Man Tells Police He Used Cement Mixer To Make Hash Oil  
  Police Seize 956 Marihuana Plants :   May 29, 2014 Edition  
      A 36-year-old optician and her 40-year-old construction worker boyfriend are facing a variety of drug-related charges after police staged a raid on their Homestead Dr. home and found more than 900 marihuana plants under cultivation.
      Police also discovered psychedelic mushrooms under cultivation in the home where two small children, ages 3 and 6, live with the couple.
      Sgt. Mike Hughes, head of the Boardman Police Department’s Narcotics Enforcement Unit (NEU) said police raided 173 Homestead Dr. where they found some 965 marihuana plants, as well as 26 mason jars that contained spores from the so-called magic mushrooms.
      In addition, Officer Hughes said “In the basement, officers discovered new construction of marihuana grow rooms.”
      Among the items confiscated during the raid was a cement mixer. Inside the mixer, police found suspected marihuana debris and when asked what the mixer was used for, police learned the device had been used to make hash oil.
      Charged with cultivating marihuana in the vicinity of a juvenile, possession of psilocybin and possession of drug paraphernalia was Amanda Hennon, 36, who told police she is an optician at America’s Best on Boardman-Poland Rd.
      She posted a $20,500 bond, police said.
      Also facing charges of illegal cultivation of marihuana, possession of psilocybin mushrooms and possession of drug paraphernalia is Thomas Charles Tibi Jr., 40, a self-employed construction worker. He was lodged in jail on a $16,500 bond.
      Also seized during the raid were the following:
      A pot pipe, a 16-gauge shotgun, a .22-caliber rifle, a .50-caliber rifle, a .45-caliber black powder rifle, a .357 lever-action rifle, two large bags of dry marihuana, two hash bags, an electronic scale, nine grow lights and a log book.
      Officers deployed on the raid on the home included Det. Tim Hughes, Ptl. William Woods, Ptl. Jeffrey Lytle, Ptl. John Gocala and Ptl. Nicholas Antonucci.
  Former School Superintendent Approved As New Supervisor Of Transportation At BLS  
  May 29, 2014 Edition  
      The Boardman Board of Education approved a variety of personnel actions during its May meeting held at Center Middle School.
      The board promoted bus driver Thomas Davis to the post of Supervisor of Transportation, effective July 1, at an annual salary of $51,007. Davis was granted a three-year contract, through June 30, 2017.
      Davis holds a masters degree in secondary administration from Youngstown State University and has 28 years experience as a teacher, principal and superintendent. He replaces Hugh Braham, who retired.
      Davis served as superintendent at United Local Schools from 2004-09; as a middle school principal for Carrollton Schools from 1999-2004; and a principal in the Springfield Local Schools from 1988-1999.
      David Kornbau was approved for a three-year contract as associate principal at Boardman High School at an annual salary of $60,573.
      13 members of the system’s classified staff were granted continuing contracts. They are Sabrina Berardino, cafeteria server; Kristine Brewer, bus driver; Mary Bryan, cafeteria server; Meriem DiNello, cleaning staff; Ryan Dunn, bus driver; Margaret Gallagher, bus driver; Lisa Gerdes, cafeteria server; Shannon Green, independent aide; Thomas Harris, bus driver; Tricia Jacobs, cafeteria server; Michele Lumpp, health aide; Elaine Majetich, health aide; and Mary Neff, health aide.
      Members of the classified staff who were granted two-year, limited contracts were Audrey Allen, teacher aide; Cory Beight, custodian; Susan Bole, cafeteria server; Kara Clark, health aide; Renee Conti, noontime monitor; Georgianna Gagich, cafeteria server; Azzerde Gaisor, cafeteria server; Candace Greene, secretary; Patricia Harris, bus aide; Donna Kominsky, bus driver; Loraine Langley, noontime monitor; Christine Merlino, bus aide; Aaron Miller, custodian; Dana Nordquist, cafeteria server; Robert Passarelli, bus driver; Heather Price, cafeteria server; Anthony Ricchiuti, bus driver; Jolene Robinson, bus driver; Kathleen Toohey, bus driver; and Cheryl Vaclav, teacher aide.
      Approved for off-staff supplemental contracts were Terry Dively, high school CEC advisor; Brian Terlesky, high school girls golf coach; Andrew Wade, varisty volleyball head coach; and Wrentie Martin, Center Middle head football coach.
      The school board accepted the resignation of Mary Hlebovy, breakfast server at Market St. Elementary School; and granted a second year of unpaid parental leave of absence to Angela Brine, West Blvd. Elementary School second grade teacher.
      Graduation ceremonies for high school seniors was set for Sun., June 8 in the school gymnasium; and the last day of classes for the rest of the students in the Boardman Local School System will be Wed., June 11.
      Three students were recognized by the school board for their entries in Law Day essay competition, sponsored by the Mahoning County Bar Association. They are Luke Carabbia, Tristan Myers and Blaise Obritz.
  Holly Welch Gets Athena Award  
  May 29, 2014 Edition  
      Among a crowd of 600 at Mr. Anthony’s in Boardman, Holly Welch, curriculum supervisor and teacher for the Youngstown City Schools, was named the recipient of the 2014 Athena Award, given annually to recognize area business and professional women who have demonstrated excellence in their chosen career, provided leadership in the community and mentored or contributed to the growth of other professional women.
      Welch’s accomplishments in the community are many----In 2006, she started the district’s biotechnology tech prep program in the basement of the Choffin Career and Technical Center. Although she only had a small classroom with one outlet and no sinks, her vision of the program was clear.
      She convinced her principal, district treasurer and the Choffin Trust Fund members that if they built it, they, the students, would come. And now, Choffin is home to a half-a-million-dollar laboratory with a waiting list to get into the program, as students earn up to 19 semester hours to Youngstown State University.
      Diana Tremblay, vice president of Global Business Services at General Motors and a former, 10-year resident of the Mahoning Valley, was the evening’s keynote speaker. In addition, the seventh annual Athena Scholarship, a $1,500, one-time award created in partnership with the Community Foundation of the Mahoning Valley, was presented to South Range High School senior Emily Erb. Erb has received numerous awards, participates in many extracurricular and volunteer activities, such as raising money to donate blankets to cancer victims and survivors, and plans to major in biology/pre-med at Youngstown State University.
      Anthem Blue Cross and Blue Shield also presented for the second year two additional scholarships in the amount of $1,250 each to West Branch High School senior Breanna Winters and Boardman High School senior Katherine Auth.
  Jack’s Health & Fitness Advice Eat Big, Eat Quality, Stay Small  
  May 29, 2014 Edition  
      Every other day, chances are you hear about somebody, somewhere, starting a new or another diet. It may be their first time, or their tenth time. Either way, the chances of them staying on dedicated to it, or it being successful, are low. The problem is, everyone is different, every BODY is different, and everyone has different tastes and preferences.
      The biggest problem I see is not eating enough, and what is eaten is not quality. Long story short, when you don’t eat enough, your body starves. Your metabolism will slow down, what you do eat will be stored as none other than fat, and you will have inadequate energy for lean tissue growth and everyday activities. If you were lying in a hospital bed after surgery, inactive for a week, you would still need energy intake for bodily functions, organ maintenance, and cellular repair and maintenance. The other problem of when what you bring in isn’t quality, can lead to more complications. Processed food can change DNA and alter genetics, and can also disrupt your digestive tract and nutrient absorption. Carbonated beverages cause a major disruption to digestion, and soft drinks can cause calcium depletion from bones, which may result in osteoporosis. The negatives highly outweigh the positives.
      The best way to start changing your health is to first plan to eat something approximately every 3 hours, even if it’s something small. The second thing is to try to get a majority of your food in the most natural form as possible. Fruits, vegetables, unaltered lean meats, whole grains, nuts and seeds are a great start. If you can’t pronounce the ingredient in something, or have no idea what it is, it probably should not going into your body. Use herbs and spices to season your food, and if permitted by health, salt very lightly. If you put good in, you’ll get good out. Try these few tips, and I guarantee you’ll notice a difference in just a short time.
      Jack Wilkins is a personal trainer and owner of Four Point Fitness, 8391 Market St., Boardman, a one-on-one, appointment only, training facility. Cardio-kickboxing classes are one of the many specialties offered.
      For more information visit www.fourpointfitness.net or call 330-565-0352. Check out Jack’s weekly blog at http://jackshealthandfitnessspot.blogspot.com/
  LTC Donald Rasile Gets Boals Award  
  May 22, 2014 Edition  
LTC DONALD RASILE
     During ceremonies held on Thurs., May 14 at the Youngstown Air Reserve Station in Vienna, Lt. Col. Donald Rasile, of 45 Midwood Circle, was given the prestigious Colonel L.R. Boals Award, in recognition of his service during his military career and to the community.
      LTC Rasile is retired from Ohio Edison, and prior to that served as a manager for Kroger.
      He entered the Army National Guard in 1960. In 1964, he was selected outstanding soldier of the year for the Army National Guard and was accepted to Officer Candidate School at Ft. Benning, Ga.
      In 1985, Rasile joined the 106 Third Armed Forces Reserve School in Farrell, Pa. as a supply officer where he was promoted to lieutenant colonel.
      He then served tours at Ft. Bragg, ft. Bliss, Ft. Campbell and Ft. McClelland before retiring in 1992.
      LTC Rasile has been a member of the Mahoning County Reserve Officers Association since 1970, and has held positions as secretary, treasurer, vice president and president. he has also served as president of District Four for the state of Ohio.
      LTC Rasile is a member of the Military Officers Association of America, American Legion Post 565, Catholic War Veterans Post 1222, and the Crime Clinic of Greater Youngstown.
      More than 250 persons attended the awards ceremony where Brig. Gen. Brian Dominguez was the featured speaker.
     
  20th Annual Relay For Life  
  Boardman Stadium:   May 22, 2014 Edition  
     THE AMERICAN CANCER SOCIETY hosted its 20th annual Relay for Life last Friday and Saturday at Boardman Stadium. The event raised $160,000 with some 65 teams participating and featured over 200 survivors for opening lap. Featured speakers at the opening ceremony were Boardman natives Dick Weimer, at left, and his daughter, Holly Watt, in center. They lost their wife/mother, Nancy, at right, to cancer seven years ago, from brain cancer. Mr. Weimer is now recovering from prostate cancer. Mrs. Weimer was featured speaker at the annual event in 2007.
  Opening Ceremony At Relay for Life  
  Boardman Stadium:   May 22, 2014 Edition  
SURVIVORS DONNA DETWILER AND TOM LAMB
     SURVIVORS DONNA DETWILER AND TOM LAMB helped to lead opening ceremonies at last weekend’s annual Relay for Life held at Boardman Stadium. Lamb, employed at the Boardman Road Department, has battled the disease for the past three years. After being unable to receive a clinical trial due to a high white blood cell count, Lamb was scheduled to begin a new round of chemotherapy this week.
  Gretta Knows.....keep dancin' in the rain!  
  May 22, 2014 Edition  
     Good day to all my earthly friends! You sure have had the rain! I feel a little guilty telling you how beautiful the warm sunshine is here every day. So I’ve decided not to speak of sunlight touching the green meadows lush green silky grass as it sways in unison, directed by the gentle wind. It has a rhythm all its own! A relaxing peaceful movement that fills my soul with a soothing calmness, but we’re not going to go there today!
      I can’t control it, my tail just wags at the beauty God has graced me and all my heavenly pals with in our eternal home! I have reached my rainbow! It is so true, that after the rain there is a rainbow. Everyone wants happiness, no one wants pain, but you can’t make a rainbow without a little rain. Just because it is stormy now, doesn’t mean you aren’t headed for some sunshine. Keep your eyes fixed upon the rainbow and even dance in the rain, for the sun will shine again, even in Ohio!
      Since I’m barking about the rain, last weekend my heavenly pals and I had a wonderful view of the ‘Relay for Life’ in Boardman. The weather was not perfect, yep cold and a little rain, but then life isn’t perfect either! Cancer survivors, cancer patients, cancer supporters, all gathered together. Those still battling cancer showed that they can walk and dance through the rain. Survivors, they perservered and made it through the storm, finding the sunshine again.
      They gathered for what they call a Survivor Lap where all cancer survivors take the first lap around the track, celebrating their victory over cancer, while cheered on by the other participants who line the track. I noticed that two of the people carrying the banner for the survivor lap I had met while on earth, Tom Lamb, who has beaten cancer twice, but is now fighting it for a third time, and Dick Weimer, a cancer survivor.
      They showed hope in their eyes and through their smiles. A spirit of courage and faith resonated through them and all in attendance. As people gathered and walked laps together, we could sense hope building as people shared their stories and their journeys. The survivor lap was a very emotional strength building of support for all. I recall a quote by Christopher Reeves who never stopped dancing in the rain, “Once you choose hope, anything’s possible.”
      A song just came to my ‘doggy’ mind by Barry Manilow, ‘I made it through the rain’ and the words went something like this....
      “We dreamers have our ways, Of facin’ rainy days, And somehow we survive. We keep the feelings warm. Protect them from the storm, Until our time arrives. Then one day the sun appears, And we come shinin’ through those lonely years.
      I made it through the rain, I kept my world protected, I made it through the rain, I kept my point of view, I made it through the rain, And found myself respected, By the others who got rained on too, And made it through.
      When friends are hard to find, And life seems so unkind, Sometimes you feel afraid, Just aim beyond the clouds, And rise above the crowds, And start your own parade. ‘Cause when I chased my fears away, That’s when I knew that I could finally say...
      I made it through the rain, I kept my world protected, I made it through the rain, I kept my point of view, I made it through the rain, And found myself respected, By the others who got rained on too
      And made it through...And made it through, And made it through....
      My paws are raised high to you, keep dancin’ in the rain, you’ll make it through.....my tails awaggin’ too!
      Gretta, a Golden Retriever, spent almost 15 years at The Boardman News. She greeted all who entered with a wag of her tail! She died in November of 2012.
      Send your animal tributes/stories to: The Boardman News, 8302 Southern Blvd., S2A, Boardman, OH 44512 or
      email to: gwen@boardmannews.net
  Fire Chief George Brown Steps Down  
  Under His Tenure, Overtime Use/Abuse Was Reduced:   May 15, 2014 Edition  
     Boardman Fire Chief George Brown has submitted his resignation after serving four years in the office.
      Brown was added to the Fire Department in May, 2011, after serving in Howland Township for more than two decades.
      During his tenure at Boardman, Chief Brown was responsible for reducing overtime use and abuse at that department that under former Chief James Dorman, cost the township hundreds of thousands of dollars.
      Chief Brown led the department in the purchase of a new aerial truck, and he increased the department’s visibility in the community through a smoke detector campaign.
      Chief Brown was the author of a grant that was approved to provide more than $600,000 for the creation of a volunteer fire force in the township. However, those grant monies were later withdrawn, because the department had no volunteer force.
      Volunteer firemen in Boardman Township were run out of their jobs more than a decade ago by full-time fire-fighters, as was noted in a study conducted by Tri Data several years ago, A volunteer fire force could save the township hundreds of thousands of dollars, if ever implemented.
      Most recently, Chief Brown was the driving force behind the construction of a new main fire station in the township.
      Boardman Trustees Thomas Costello, Brad Calhoun and Larry Moliterno indicate they would like to appoint a new fire chief from within the Boardman Fire Department.
  Construction Of New Pipeline Paves Way For Resurfacing Project  
  May 15, 2014 Edition  
     A more than a mile-long road resurfacing project along Southern Blvd., from Rt. 224 south to Washington Blvd. is part of $5 million and 30 miles worth of repaving work in Mahoning County being paid for by the Sunoco Oil Co.
      Mahoning County Engineer Patrick Ginnetti told The Boardman News that Sunoco is building a 12-inch pipeline through the county that will replace a line that is some 80-years-old. The pipeline will transport petroleum products, the engineer said.
      Sunoco and county officials reached agreement on the roadwork to mitigate potential damages that could be caused to due heavy equipment that is being used to reconstruct the pile line, Ginnetti said.
      Also being paced as part of the project is a portion of Tippecanoe Rd.
      According to the county engineer, Sunoco will also used Hitchcock Rd and South Ave. to transport pipeline construction materials.
      “Those roads are bonded, meaning if damage occurs as a result of the construction work, Sunoco will pay for the repairs,” Ginnetti said.
  School Chief Explored State Funds To Build New Center Middle School  
  Mandatory Drug Testing Program Begins In July For Student Athletes And Student Drivers:   May 8, 2014 Edition  
     Interest among Boardman Local School officials in considering the renovation and or demolition of the current Center Middle School was among several topics discussed at a Boardman Board of Education workshop held last Saturday.
      Supt. Frank Lazzeri said last summer the Ohio Schools Facilities Commission invited the local school district to participate in a type of review program in an apparent effort to consider the district’s eligibility to receive state funding to replace Center Middle School. Parts of the school are some 100 years old.
      Mr. Lazzeri said the Boardman Local School District was among 19 districts across the state of Ohio invited to participate in the review program and said Center Middle was determined to be the school “with the greatest need.”
      Mr. Lazzeri said he informed the Facilities Commission the Boardman School District is changing, noting that he advised over the past decade the number of free and reduced-priced lunches served to students has nearly quadrupled.
      The superintendent said despite the changing demographics of the district, only about 16 per cent of a multi-million dollar project to demolish the current Center Middle School and build a new school, would be eligible for state funding.
      Members of the school board also learned ‘more technology devices’ are needed within the school system that will allow students to take state-mandated testing programs,.
      “We have been informed all such testing will be done with computers, beginning next year,” Mr. Lazzeri said.
      Boardman High School Principal Jared Cardillo informed the board that drug testing programs for student athletes, as well as student who drive to school, will begin this July.
      Another topic of discussion at the workshop was the district’s participation in the All American Conference.
      Boardman Local Schools have dropped out of the Stark County-based Federal League and will participate in the All American Conference next year in all sports, except football. For the 2014 season, the Spartan football program will play in no league.
      Following a public session, the agenda for the workshop indicates the school board adjourned into a closed-door meeting to discuss negotiations that are currently underway with its teachers union, the Boardman Education Association.
     
  Bishop Suspends Campaign To Build New Mooney HS  
  May 8, 2014 Edition  
     Six weeks after receipt of a letter from major sponsors suggesting Cardinal Mooney High School on Erie St. in Youngstown be renovated, the school’s board of directors announced on Monday a that a more than year-long campaign to build a new high school, possibly along Western Reserve Rd., near West Calla Rd., would be suspended.
      The letter was sent to Bishop George Murry, head of the Youngstown Diocese, and indicated at least $10 million dollars could be raised from donors to “make the school on Erie St. the best it can be,” including for children who are disadvantaged, at risk and struggling...”
      The letter proposed renovating the current school and insure “a safe haven employing caring and committed teachers who are focusing on academic excellence/” That proposal has already received support from the Mayor of Youngstown, city councilmen, numerous priests and politicians, and many altruistic friends of Cardinal Mooney,” Bishop Murry was informed.
      In announcing the suspension of plans to build a new school, Bishop Murry said $14 million in pledges had been received during the campaign for a new high school.
      Total cost of building a new Mooney High School was set at $34.5 million, according to the Youngstown Diocese.
      “Because [the board of directors] were unable to reach a $23 million goal, Bishop Murry had no choice but to suspend the campaign and consider other options,” the Diocese said.
      While some members of the greater Youngstown community have recommended merging the two existing high schools in the city, Bishop Murry said that “such conversations, while sincere, were premature. Now that it is clear that it will not be possible to build a new school, Mooney will need to revise their strategic plan to respond to their present needs and the anticipated needs of the future.”
      Mooney Board Chair, Edward Reese, said that “Cardinal Mooney High School is a key pillar in the Mahoning Valley Community. Mooney has a great history and tradition. As a consequence, we will continue do everything possible to insure a strong future for Cardinal Mooney.”
  Vietnam Wall Memorial Will Be At YSU May 15-18  
  May 8, 2014 Edition  
     The American Veterans Traveling Tribute/Vietnam Traveling Wall is coming to the campus of Youngstown State University, Thurs., May 15 through Sun., May 18.
      The 360-foot long Wall, an 80-percent scale version of the Vietnam Memorial Wall in Washington, D.C., will be open for viewing around the clock in the M22 parking lot on Wood Street on the YSU campus.
      Free parking is available in the M3 parking lot on West Rayen Avenue. Handicap parking will be available near the wall on Wood Street.
      The event is presented by the YSU Office of Veterans Affairs, with the support and sponsorship of the Mahoning County Veterans Service Commission and The Home Depot of Boardman.
      Among the ceremonies that will be held in conjunction with the Traveling Wall’s presence on campus:
       •Wednesday, May 14, approximately 4:30 p.m., welcome ceremony.
       •Thursday, May 15, opening ceremony, 2 p.m.
       •Saturday, May 17, 8 p.m., candlelight vigil.
       •Sunday, May 18, noon, closing ceremony.
      In addition, at 10 a.m. Fri., May 16, at the site of the Traveling Wall, YSU will hold its annual Reading of the Names Ceremony, remembering YSU employees and students who died while on active military duty. YSU’s annual Armed Forces Appreciation Luncheon will follow in the Chestnut Room of Kilcawley Center on the YSU campus.
      The Traveling Wall was completed in 1998 and began traveling that year. AVTT’s Traveling Wall is the largest wall replica traveling the United States and is not to be confused with several other replica walls – The Moving Wall, The Dignity Wall or the Wall That Heals.
      The mission of the AVTT/Vietnam Traveling Wall is to travel the nation to honor, respect and remember men and women who served, and to pay specific tribute to those who gave all in that service.
      Since the tribute is mobile, it allows people to honor and respect veterans and active military personnel without having to travel great distances to do so.
      AVTT is a veteran’s-owned project. It is not government sponsored or affiliated, but funded through sponsorship fees, donations and sale of merchandise at events. AVTT is contracted by The Texas Freedom Tribute, an IRS designated 501 C3, to provide The Wall, crew and expertise.
      Donations or support to AVTT’s mission are qualified charitable tax deductions. For more information or to schedule an AVTT event, visit www.avtt.org or e-mail Leah@avtt.org.
  Fulks Named Grand Marshal Of Memorial Day Parade  
  110th Annual Event Set For Mon, May 26:   May 1, 2014 Edition  
     Boardman Township’s 110th annual Memorial Day Parade and Observance will be held Monday, May 26, 2014.
      Mark Fulks will be the grand marshal and featured speaker for the annual event. Mr. William Wainio will give the invocation, and LTC Bill Moss, USAF Ret., will lead the pledge of allegiance and place a wreath in honor of our deceased veterans. The Boardman Spartan Marching Band will march in the parade and provide music for the Memorial Service.
      Fulks is a 1974 graduate of Boardman High School where he was a state champion gymnast. He went on to the United States Air Force Academy and following graduation served a six-year term on active duty and following that served in the Air National Guard for three years.
      He served 16 years on the Boardman Board of Education and was the second member of his family to serve that board. His father, Jim Fulks, served the school board for 12 years.
      All organizations who are interested to enter a float in the parade can contact Stephanie Landers at 330-565-2543 or at BoardmanParade@yahoo.com.
      Groups participating in the parade will assemble at the Boardman Center Middle School at 9:30 a.m. and the parade will begin at 10:00 a.m. Please enter the school through the Stadium Drive entrance for the Parade line up.
      Mark Luke of the Boardman Kiwanis Club will serve as master of ceremonies for the Memorial Service.
      Participation in the parade is expected from the Boardman Trustees and other township officials, the Boardman Fire Department, Boardman Police Department, Boardman Local School Board, Boy Scouts, Girl Scouts, Came Fire Girls, American Legion Post #565, Kiwanis, Rotary, Lions, Boardman Civic Association, antique, classic, and model T car clubs, ambulance companies and bicycles. The service clubs will pass out candy to the children of all ages.
      In the event of rain, the service will be held in the Center Middle School Auditorium.
      This year’s parade and ceremonies will also honor the memory of Kiwanian George Grim who died earlier this year. Mr. Grim organized the parade for the past 12 years.
  Park And School Levy Renewal Issues, Precinct 7 Booze Bill On May 6 Primary Ballot  
  May 1, 2014 Edition  
     Voters will go to the polls on Tues., May 6 for the primary elections that show several issue of particular interest.
      In precinct 7, where the Boardman Police Department says illegal drug activity is prevalent, voters will be asked to vote on a local option booze sales, including on Sundays, at True North, 5135 Market St.
      Three renewal tax issues will be on the ballot, including a three-tenths mil Boardman Park renewal (see page 7 of this week’s Boardman News); as well as 1.8-mil and 2.4-mil tax renewals for the Boardman Local School District. The school district’s renewal issues are for three-year periods and raise some $3.468 million annually for the district.
      A variety of county wide races will be on the ballot, perhaps highlighted by the race for the Judge of Probate Court where Judge Mark Belinky recently resigned in the wake of an investigation into the use of his campaign finances.
      Gov. John Kasich will appoint someone to that post, that won’t be filled by the voters until the November general elections.
      The Democrat camp is a hotly-contested race featuring Atty. Chris Sammarone and Atty. Susan Maruca.
      Maruca has said the race “isn’t about politics” and on the other side of her banterings, she has taken issue with Sammarone using lofty remarks said about him by former Youngstown State head football coach Jim Tressel.
      Some suggest should former Mahoning County Bar Association president Robert Rusu gain appointment to the Probate Court by Kasich, he could be the favored candidate for the job in the general elections.
      Maruca had been deemed ‘not recommended’ by her peers in the Mahoning County Bar Association.
      On the ballot for judgeships in the Mahoning County Court of Common Pleas are incumbents R. Scott Krichbaum, Maureen Sweeney, John Durkin and Beth Smith, all of whom have served their constituents with merit. Krichbaum and Durkin are the only two judicial candidates who have been ‘highly recommended’ by their peers in the county bar association.
      Unopposed for State Senator from the 33rd District is Boardman native Joe Schiavoni, of 880 Westport Dr. He has been a leader in attempting to force greater accountability for charter schools in the state.
      Of four candidates on the ballot for judge in the Seventh District Court of Appeals, one candidate, David Engler, is “not recommended” by the Mahoning County Bar Association. “Recommended” are Carol Robb, Anthony Donofrio and Cheryl Waite.
  Six Police Cruisers Sent To Fight At Apartment Building After Man Looked At A Girl ‘Wrong’  
  April 24, 2014 Edition  
     Two persons were apparently stabbed and another was belted in the head with a cane during a weekend altercation at a Boardman apartment building at 65 Shields Rd.
      According to police reports, a conflagration broke out when a man looked at another man’s girlfriend ‘the wrong way.’
      Near 1:00 a.m. last Sat., Apr. 19, six police cruisers were sent to the apartment building where several people were reported to be “fighting in the basement.”
      Officers first encountered Frank Hosey, 33, of 2130 McGuffey Rd., Youngstown; who poked his head out of an apartment door and told police he was not involved in the altercation.
      “It’s not us, you got the wrong apartment...It’s Joey and he crazy,” Hosey, a black man, told police.
      Officers next encountered two caucasions, Jessica Quick, 22, who told police she lives in the apartment building with her fiance, Joe J. DiGiacomo, 26.
      Quick was sitting on a cement landing and officers heard her tell someone, “Stay inside. The cops are here.”
      Police have responded to Quick’s and DiGiacomo’s residence “numerous times for disturbances,” Officer Paul Poulos said.
      After Quick’s admonition, Ptl. Poulos heard someone from inside the apartment building respond, “I don’t give a f---.”
      The voice was DiGiacomo’s, Officer Poulos said, reporting the man was ordered from the apartment with his hands up.
      DiGiacomo told police he had by jumped for no reason “by those black dudes,” and then told police “That’s when I stabbed him.”
      All the while, police said that Quick “kept interfering with their investigation” to the point Ptl. Anthony Ciccotelli was deployed to keep the woman at bay from police.
      Officer Poulos then went to downstairs apartment unit where he found 20-year-old Milt Anderson with a towel wrapped around his left arm.
      Anderson told police he had been stabbed by a man named Joey.
      As Anderson was being interviewed by police, Officer Poulos said he heard a “cracking sound” and turned around to see DiGiacomo and Hosey engaged in a fight behind a police cruiser.
      Hosey desisted when ordered to do so and was placed in handcuffs, but police said that DiGiacomo began to run through the parking lot, and then suddenly turned towards officers and “put both of his hands in front of him, balled his fists and assumed the fighting position.” Ed. note: Not a good idea.
      In police language, DiGiacomo was “escorted to the ground” where he continued to struggle. The struggle ceased when a taser was placed near DiGiacomo’s thigh.
      “Okay, okay, I give up,” DiGiacomo, 6-2 and 245 lbs., said.
      With some semblance of order restored, police continued their investigation.
      Therow Hardy, who lives in the apartment building, told police that Hosey, Anderson and DiGiacomo, as well as several babes, were in his apartment “having a good time” when a minor altercation broke out because “DiGiacomo looked at Hosey’s girl wrong.”
      Hardy said he quelled the disturbance and ordered Hosey and his friends out of the apartment.
      According to Hardy, Hosey returned and broke the door open to Hardy’s apartment ‘holding a piece of wood.’ Hosey was then confronted by DiGiacomo, who was armed with a knife and scissors,
      Another fight erupted, and Hardy claimed that DiGiacomo made a stabbing motion at Hosey and Anderson.
      Officer Poulos was told that Anderson and Hosey had been stabbed. The officer also reported that DiGiacomo was taken to St. Elizabeth Hospital for treatment of a head wound he sustained when “Hosey struck him with a walking cane.”
      DiGiacomo, employed at DeChelis Italian Cafe at the Rogers Flea Market in Negley, was charged with felony assault, as well as tampering with evidence, obstruction and resisting arrest. He was given a free ride to the county jail where he was lodged on a $22,000 bond. His fiance was charged with disorderly conduct while intoxicated.
      Hosey was charged with felony assault, burglary and obstruction and sent to jail on $25,000 bond.
      DiGiacomo and Quick live in an apartment where the primary resident is DiGiacomo’s dad, Vincent, Officer Poulos said.
      The father allowed police inside his apartment where police recovered a knife.
      Officer Poulos also noted that Quick and all parties involved were “intoxicated.”
  Trustees Approve Free Drop-Off Site  
  April 17, 2014 Edition  
     Meeting on Monday, Boardman Trustees have approved an agreement with Elliott’s Garden Center, 1282 Western Reserve Rd., to provide a free composting and yard-waste drop-off site for township residents.
      Clippings, brush and prunings from trees will be accepted Mondays thru Saturdays, from 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.
      Yard waste that will be accepted by Elliott’s includes brush (4-ft. or less in length), prunings from trees and shrubs, tree truck or logs under 15-inches in diameter up to 10-ft. long, and clean wooden pallets.
      Items that will not be accepted include animal waste, concrete, hazardous or infectious waste, industrial and agricultural waste, landscape fabric, metal and/or plastic, railroad ties, treated lumber and fence material, stumps, trash and rocks.
      As has been the custom for at least a decade or more, Trustees will request approval from the Ohio Department of Transportation and the First Energy Co. to place American flags at Boardman Center, and along Market St. and Rt. 224, from Memorial Day through Labor Day. Annually, the township’s patriotic display includes upwards of 150 American flags.
      Upon the recommendation of Zoning Inspector Sarah Gartland, Trustees approved demolitions contracts for two properties with C. Crump Excavating of Hubbard for 203 Meadowbrook Ave/ and 120 Shadyside Dr. Cost of the demolition will not exceed $8,700.
      Also approved was the purchase of a 48-inch zero-turn lawnmower from Do-Cut at a cost of $5,600. Gartland said the equipment will be used for the township’s annual nuisance abatement program to clean-up unkept properties.
      As a cost-saving measure, Trustees agreed to a memorandum of understanding for a joint road paving program with Austintown and Canfield Townships this summer.
      Acting upon the recommendation of Police Chief Jack Nichols, Trustees approved the purchase of three laptop computers at $1400 each from DRS, 1343 Belmont Ave., Youngstown; and three ‘intense-use’ dispatch chairs at a cost of $4,025 from Thomas Shelby and Co., 309 South Park Dr., St. Marys, Oh.
      An agreement with Ohio State Waterproofing, of Macedonia, Oh. was approved for mold remediation and water-proofing services at the township’s main fire station on Boardman-Poland Rd. Total cost of the work is expected to be some $18,200 and the project may signal that Trustees will consider remodeling the current main fire station, instead of building an new structure.
      Remodeling the current main fire station, instead of building a new facility, could result in a significant cost savings for the township, according to Administrator Jason Loree.
  Angels of Easter Seals Spring Fashion Show & Brunch  
  May 8 at Mr. Anthony's:   April 17, 2014 Edition  
     Angels of Easter Seals will present its 37th annual Spring Fashion Show and Brunch, Breakfast at Tiffany’s, on Thurs., May 8 at Mr. Anthony’s, 7440 South Ave. The festivities will get underway at 10:00 a.m. and will be followed by a brunch at 11:15 a.m.
      Spring and summer fashions will be presented by Macy’s of Southern Park Mall, Chico’s of Boardman and Suzanne’s. Judy Conti is the fashion director for the event. The show will feature local media, Easter Seals children and Judy Conti models.
      Stan Boney, WYTV, will be the master of ceremonies for the show. For the 20th consecutive year Bianca Severino, a former child ambassador, and Boney will walk on stage together, which is one of the highlights of the event.
      Media participants include: Todd Franko, Nena Perkins, Barbara Shaffer, and Barbara Staples of the Vindicator; Josh Frketic, Chase Evans, Erika Thomas, Greta Mittereder, Amy Radinovic of WKBN; Stan Boney, WYTV; A.C. McCullough and Kelly Stevens of Hot 101; and Bob Black, Leslie Barrett, Mike Case, Lauren Lindvig, Jasmine Monroe, Eric Wilhelm, Jennifer Brindisi, Madonna Chism Pinkard from WFMJ.
      NEW THIS YEAR: There will be a Tiffany & Co. Mystery Blue Box Raffle and Gem Set Jewelry Auction. Raffle prizes will include $1,000 cash; $500 Macy’s gift certificate; $500 cash and more. Raffle tickets can be purchased from any member of the Angels.
      There will be an Auction in a Bag event featuring a variety of gifts and a 50/50 raffle.
      The Angels and Friends Cookbooks and gift baskets will be for sale.
      Tickets for the Fashion Show and Brunch are $35 or $45 for patrons. To purchase tickets call Easter Seals at 330-599-5500. Guests are encouraged to wear a black dress or black top and pants with pearls and sparkles ala “Breakfast at Tiffany’s”.
      Chairpersons are Joyce Dowell, Jane Evans and Lynn Sahli. Kathy Carroll is president of the Angels of Easter Seals. All proceeds will benefit Easter Seals of Mahoning, Trumbull and Columbiana counties.
      Event sponsors are Easter Seals Board, The Vindicator, WFMJ, Macy’s Southern Park Mall, Suzanne’s, Chico’s of Boardman, Gem Set Jewelry, Phyllis Bacon, Kathy Carroll and Carolyn Leetch.
  Reba McEntire at Canfield Fair Aug 31  
  April 17, 2014 Edition  
     Beginning Mon., June 9, patrons can purchase tickets for the 168th Canfield Fair grandstand shows. Reba McEntire returns to The Canfield Fair this year. She will be joined on Sun., Aug. 31 by The Willis Clan.
      Justin Moore will appear on Mon., Sept. 1, with a special guest to be named later.
      A new addition to the grandstand attractions in 2014 will be the Lucas Oil Monster Truck Nationals set for Wed., Aug. 27.
      Tickets can be purchased using anyone of the following three options:
      1) The Fair website---www.canfieldfair.com
      2) The Fair Box Office temporarily located in the Administration Building #20, on the fairgrounds will be open Monday thru Friday, 9 am to 2 pm. After the first week, box office hours will be Monday and Thursday only, from 9 am to 2 pm.
      3) The Fair Box Office phone number (330/533-4107) using a debit/credit card Monday thru Friday, 9 am to 2 pm. After the first week, phone orders will be taken but not filled until the next regularly schedule box office open day.
      Ticket prices for 2014 grandstand shows will be listed on the website ticket page on the date they go on sale. Starting 2014, youth tickets for both the Demo Derby and Truck and Tractor Pull will be available through the web site. No ticket exchanges for youth tickets will be made once the original purchase is complete.
      Reserved seating means persons 3 years of age and older are required to purchase a ticket. Persons under 3 years of age are admitted free providing they sit on the lap of a paying ticket holder.
      Fair officers include Craig Myers, president; Andy Frost, vice-president; Frank Paden, treasurer; M. Rick Kubic, chief fiscal officer; and Bev Fisher, fair manager.
     
  Gretta Knows...pass the popcorn & M&M's  
  April 17, 2014 Edition  
Gretta, Her Tails a 'waggin
      Greetings! I noticed lots of smiles over the past weekend on the faces of my hometown friends! So glad you finally received some warmer temps and sunshine! I see the trees are beginning to get their leaves, daffodils are pushing through the soil to display their beauty, grass is becoming a vivid green....Spring is such a beautiful time of the year. I remember after a long cold winter, going outdoors and feeling the warmer sun rays against my fur and seeing the birth of Spring, ooh, I’d shake my head and body with renewed energy and joy!
      Today I am prancing through the meadow grass, feeling the same energy and joy! Easter is here! Whether you are inspired by the sentiments of Easter and Passover or simply by the light-hearted song of a bird, do take a moment to meditate on the processes by which you will renew.
      Wow, I have wondered into a new area of this heavenly place. There are lovely light blue colored flowers scattered all around, blowing slightly in the peaceful breeze amongst the high meadow grass. In the distance I notice a boxer coming my way, a new face. When we meet, he tells me his name is Tank. We bark awhile, exchanging our life stories. He lived in a town right next to me, “what a small heaven it is”, I howl! He asked if I knew the way to the Rainbow Bridge as he heard a friend of his was arriving and wanted to be sure to be there to greet him!
      I said I’d gladly show him the way, as I needed to go there too! As we walked we continued to bark about the wonderful loving times our masters had given us and how blessed our earthly lives had been. We got to barking about Tank’s friend that would soon be arriving. Tank said his name is Ziti. “Now he is a little Yorkie-Maltice, small compared to me, but look out, he might be mighty small, but he is feisty and fearless” Tank barked with excitement! “He loved playing with golf balls. They made the most annoying noise, but he knew that noise would make his masters play with him.”
      I barked in, “yes us dogs all knew how to maneuver our masters to play with us. Oh how we’d have them down on the floor with us, or giving them a sad look which would get us on the bed, or on the couch, or even a biscuit.” Tank added, “you know Ziti gets the biscuit award, as he would have his masters snuggling up, sharing popcorn and M&M’s with him every night.” We both howled in unison.
      We reached the hill overlooking the Rainbow Bridge and saw a great crowd was gathering. Once down the hill, I introduced Tank to all my heavenly pals. We were all barking, getting to know Tank and hearing about Ziti, when we saw Sady the guardian dog of the bridge, begin to walk to the front of the bridge. We all became silent as we noticed a small dog appear. Tank whimpered, “that’s Ziti, he’s arrived!”
      Sady barked softly, welcoming Ziti to his new heavenly home. Ziti turned away from Sady and pointed his nose downward.... he barked to his masters, “I will always love you and miss you. Thank you for giving me a home filled with happiness, love and kindness. I know there were times I was a bit feisty, but when you are the smallest, you have to let others know you can stand your ground. It is amazing, and you’ll be comforted to know that I don’t feel pain anymore! Be sure to pass me some popcorn and M&M’s, I’ll be watching!”
      As Ziti turned, he and Sady slowly crossed the bridge, walking side by side. Ziti suddenly looked up, noticing Tank standing with all the other heavenly dogs and cats. Ziti turned, glancing back letting out a yelp, “Tank is here”, then he began to run and nuzzled up to Tank. We all turned and ran up the hill, Ziti was home, and our tails were a waggin’!
      In memory of:
      Ziti ‘Little Mac’ Pastini Petrillo & his pal Tank
      Gretta, a Golden Retriever, spent almost 15 years at The Boardman News. She greeted all who entered with a wag of her tail! She died in November of 2012.
      Send your animal tributes/stories to: The Boardman News, 8302 Southern Blvd., S2A, Boardman, OH 44512. Email: gwen@boardmannews.net
  Jack's Health & Fitness Advice  
  Why Weight? Get Started Now!:   by Jack Wilkins   April 17, 2014 Edition  
     So you’re stuck on a ton of cardio and a little bit of resistance training. You’ve either hit a wall, or are losing weight but barely gaining any functional weight (muscle) or toning and tightening. The problem is simple, the solution is simple: less cardio, more resistance training. Resistance training should be your staple for progress, cardio should be your supplement, and you should keep both in your regimen.
      There are a thousand different thoughts about resistance training among thousands of different people. All of them combined together are right, to the fact that resistance training can be manipulated any way to achieve the results that you want. You can power train, strength train, endurance train, sculpt, tone, and so on. So no you will not get blocky or bulky from it if that is not the desired goal. Plus diet has a large impact on that as well.
      First and foremost, resistance training increases lean muscle tissue. When you increase lean tissue, you increase metabolism, and you’ll burn more fat. Your body tightens and you increase muscle tone. With minimal weight training and primarily cardiovascular training, some fat may be lost, but also functional weight can be at risk of being lost. That causes a reduction in metabolism, hence a halt in weight loss after a certain time period. Although weight losses can be significant at first, take a look at body composition, the level of fitness, and the overall tightness of the body. Numbers are great, but look and feel are just as important. Feeling great and being healthy is a great pedestal to be on, weight is just a number. Would you rather be 160 pounds and 45% body fat, or 185 pounds and 15% body fat?
      Resistance training also helps with bone strength and density. The pull on the muscle tissue from the pressure of resistance causes stress on the bones, which causes them to strengthen. Resistance also causes microscopic cracks in bone due to the pulling, and also from the pressure of the weight, which causes them to repair and be stronger than before. Resistance training also causes greater calcium absorption and retention in bones. This also increases bone density. This is especially important for women, younger and causes great benefits going into older years.
      For men, resistance training can help with hormones. Studies show that adding resistance training into a program can increase testosterone production and levels. It can also help increase growth hormone production. Also, the more lean mass you create, the better hormone production has been shown to be. This can be especially beneficial to any older men needing a testosterone treatment or replacement. A few other important things that resistance training does are it can help glucose metabolism and can help lower blood pressure. It can also help lower cholesterol. Brain function and nervous system function can be greatly improved due to the increased usage and good stress that comes from resistance training. It can also help increase balance and help you sleep better.
      Resistance training is a great addition to your workout repertoire. Remember to start slow. Three days a week is plenty for general fitness, and if you aren’t goofing around, you can be done with a full body routine in 45 minutes or less, even a half an hour. Trust me, I’m the trainer. Get out, get going, and get started.
      Jack Wilkins is a personal trainer and owner of Four Point Fitness, 8391 Market St., Boardman, a one-on-one, appointment only, training facility. Cardio-kickboxing classes are one of the many specialties offered. For more information visit www.fourpointfitness.net or call 330-565-0352. Check out Jack’s weekly blog at http://jackshealthandfitnessspot.blogspot.com/
  Everyone Chipped-In For Chris Terlesky  
  April 10, 2014 Edition  
     A day of community fellowship attended by more than 6500 persons last Sunday brought strength and encouragement to Boardman High School teacher and coach, Christine Terlesky, who is battling Lou Gehrig’s disease. ‘Chip in for Chris’ was supported by a 20-member committee and more than 200 volunteers who served-up some 3700 spaghetti dinners and hosted a variety of auctions, raising more than $120,000 that will go towards expenses Mrs. Terlesky and her family will incur as they fight the crippling disease. Boardman Trustee and local school teacher, Brad Calhoun, summed-up the event. noting “Thousands of people spoke, hugged and laughed with Christine, and the entire time, she greeted each of them with enthusiasm and joy. Everyone is in awe of her strength. It was amazing, people kept stopping by with donations, and more importantly, their love and encouragement.” Following is a letter to the Boardman community from Christine.
      * * * * * * * * * *
      I have said ‘thank you’ many times in my life...usually to one person at a time. I find myself in a strange predicament---How does a person thank 6,700 people for an unbelievable showing of generosity? I decided to write a letter of thanks to the entire Boardman community---Thank you for your generosity, your prayers, your kind words of encouragement for my family and myself.
      I realize that the words ‘thank you’ can never truly convey my gratitude. Thank you is inadequate for the magnitude of support we received from the Boardman community, but from the bottom of my heart I thank you.
      When I was diagnosed with ALS it was devastating. I knew my life would be forever changed. My family and my children were going to deal with hardships because of my sickness. To be honest there are times when I can’t fix my daughter’s hair, teach my sons to shoot a basketball, or be able to ever ride a bike again that I ask “Why? Why did this happen?”
      I’m sorry to say I have felt sorry for myself a few times...
      And then an event like Sunday’s spaghetti dinner happens and it was an amazing, humbling experience that gives me hope, that forces me to quit feeling sorry for myself and fight!
      There is not enough I can say about the CHIP IN FOR CHRIS committee. They put together an event that was mind boggling. And the entire community that came out on a beautiful Sunday afternoon was truly amazing and unexpected.
      Many of you told me that I was “inspiring.” I disagree. I am not inspiring, this community who came together to help a family is inspiring. Boardman, you inspire me!
      I am also in awe of surrounding communities that donated and attended the dinner. There were many of you and I also thank you.
      I never understood Lou Gehrig stating that he “considered himself the luckiest man on the face of the earth.” I understand now.
      I understand that I get to see the best in humanity. I understand that there is NOTHING more important than people and love. I do not take for granted the little things that I used to... I hug and kiss my kids about a million times a day because I know it can be taken from me. I tell my family every day I love them...I have reconnected with my very best friends and I will never let them go...I have tried to teach my students to live every day like its your last...and I am telling the community that I live in who has shown me unbelievable support and love---thank you,thank you, thank you...you have no idea how much your support means to me and my family.
      I do have some special thank yous--- To Boardman High School and administration for allowing us to have the spaghetti dinner, to the cafeteria ladies, you guys are awesome---to the custodial staff, you too are awesome, to the committee for “Chip in for Chris,” and my family, Ron and Judy Moschella, Nadine and Nick Colla and Jolene, and Mary Lou and Ted Terlesky...
      There really are so many others...
      The best decision my husband and I ever made was deciding to live and work in Boardman---The people, the people are the best in the world.
      Christine Terlesky
       EDITOR’S NOTE: Donations to the Chip in for Chris campaign are still being accepted and can be mailed to Chip in for Chris, c/o Brad Calhoun, 422 Jaronte, Boardman, Ohio 44512. Checks made out to: Chip in for Chris.
     
  Teacher Sues School, Township Over Apr. 3, 2013 ‘Tackling Incident’ During Emergency Training Exercise  
  April 10, 2014 Edition  
     Denied a worker’s compensation claim, Center Middle teacher Jesse McClain, of 6973 Ron Park Place, has filed a suit against Boardman Township and Boardman Local Schools seeking damages resulting from injuries he suffered on Apr. 3, 2013, while participating in an ‘active shooter’ scenario that was held at Boardman High School.
      Also named in the suit is Scepter Investigation, who planned and supervised the emergency training drill that resulted in vastly improved communications and emergency readiness between the school district and the Boardman Police Department.
      In the suit, that seeks at least $125,000, McClain says he entered Boardman High School during the drill and was “willfully, purposely, intentionally, recklessly, wantonly and without cause tackled to the floor...suffering serious, debilitating and permanent injuries,” including a non-displaced right hip intertrochanteric fracture, and a surgical neck fracture of the right proximal humerus.
      The suit says “The tackling incident...is due at least in part to employee negligence and physical defects” that caused McClain to suffer “permanent traumatic and significant life-altering injuries.” McClain says as a result of the ‘tackling incident’ he will continue to endure great pain and suffering and incur medical and rehabilitation expenses, suffer lost wages and impairment of his earning capacity, and be unable to perform many usual functions.”
      Seeking at least $25,000 of the $100,000 is McClain’s wife, Katherine. In the suit she claims she suffered the loss of her husband’s care, comfort, services and consortium in the past and will continue to suffer those losses in the future.
      In order to participate in the emergency drill, McClain signed a waiver that was drawn-up by the Mahoning County Prosecutor’s Office.
  Sammarone Only Qualified Candidate For Probate Court  
  Judges Krichbaum, Durkin Are ‘Highly Recommended’:   April 10, 2014 Edition  
     The Mahoning County Bar Association, through a poll of its membership, has said that three candidates, all democrats, on the May primary ballot “are not recommended.”
      A press release issued by the bar association, says that “lawyers are charged with a duty to aid the public in the selection process of those seeking a judicial opinion.”
      The bar said it makes its recommendation considering “the qualities of legal knowledge, professional experience, judicial temperament, integrity, diligence and professional responsibility.”
      Most prominent among candidates not recommended by the bar association is Susan Maruca, seeking the seat on the Probate Court vacated by the resignation of Mark Belinky.
      The bar association said the only qualified Dem candidate in the primary Probate Court race is Chris Sammarone, of 1680 Gully Top Lane, Canfield.
      Maruca, of 3499 Olde Winter Trail, Poland, has gained the support of Dem chair Dave Betras and his minions, although some suggest the campaign “being about qualifications is a smoke screen. The issue at hand is the relationship between Dave and Susan.” Maruca previously had a law office with Betras, and some suggest Betras bought her out of her partnership.
      Maruca bettered Sammarone, 2-1, in the Dem party endorsement meeting, as Maruca accepted the endorsement almost unbelievably noting “This isn’t about politics...”
      Sammarone says he is the “best candidate with extensive probate and guardianship experience.”
      The bar association also did not recommend David Engler, of 9151 Springfield Rd., #1004, Poland, for a seat on the Seventh District Court Appeals; or Mark Hanni, of 3775 Barber Dr., Canfield, for a seat on the Common Pleas Court.
      Recommended for the elections for the Seventh District Court of Appeals are Anthony Donofrio, 1260 Cherokee Lane, Youngstown; Carol Robb, 46033 Hatcher Rd., New Waterford; and Cheryl Waite, 1300 Aspen Lane, Poland.
      Recommended for Common Pleas seats are John Durkin, 755 Greenfield, Boardman; R. Scott Krichbaum, 475 Gardenridge Ct., Boardman; Beth Smith, 500 East South Range Rd., North Lima; and Maureen Sweeney, 7576 Locust Lane, Poland.
      Of all the candidates seeking a judicial seat, the Mahoning County Bar Association gave its highest ratings of “highly recommended” to Judges Durkin and Krichbaum.
      Durkin sits in the bench of the Mahoning County Drug Court, while Krichbaum sits on a Common Pleas bench where he has gained a reputation for stern sentences for convicted felons.
      Belinky resigned from the Probate Court last month in the wake of an investigation into his campaign finances. Sources say he has been reluctant to fully cooperate with that investigation.
  Park Sets $40 Fee For Use Of Paws Town  
  April 3, 2014 Edition  
     Pet owners who have grown accustomed to taking their pooches for a walk/run at Paws Town at Boardman Park will now have to pay a yearly fee to use the 3.25-acre, fenced-in facility.
      The grounds opened to the public last year and has been open to allow the public to ‘try out’ the facility, according to Angela Davis, of the park district.
      Paws Town is located at Boardman Park at the Southern Boulevard entrance. It is has separate fenced-in areas for large and small dogs.
      Some of the amenities include water fountains for dogs and people, benches, and plenty of room for dogs to run off leash.
      Amenities that will be added at a future date will include trees for shade, landscaping, fire hydrants and areas with a wood fiber surface.
      Marge Hartman’s Paws Town, a volunteer-non-profit organization, partnered with Boardman Park to create Boardman Township’s first dog park.
      Memberships will be good for one year from Apr. 1 to Mar. 31, 2015. Membership fees will not be prorated.
      Memberships for Boardman residents will be $40 for one dog and $10 for each additional dog. Non-Boardman resident fees will be $65 for one dog and $10 for each additional dog. Membership packets can be picked up at the Boardman Park Office, in the outdoor literature boxes at the dog park or online at boardmanpark.com
      Beginning Apr. 1, everyone using Paws Town Dog Park must have a membership in order to ensure that all dogs are healthy and vaccinated.
      The Marge Hartman Paw Town Dog Park is currently selling memorial trees and brick forms that can be found online at Pawstown.org or can be picked up at the Park Office for those who wish to donate a memorial to their pets.
      Paws Town at Boardman Park was the concept of Boardman Township Administrator Jason Loree and his wife, Abbey. They organized a committee to discuss the formation of a dog park in Oct., 2009.
  Southern Park Mall Spun Off To New Entity  
  Richard Sokolov Chairman Of The Board:   April 3, 2014 Edition  
     outhern Park Mall, will spin off all of its strip center business and smaller enclosed malls, including the Southern Park Mall, into a publicly traded Real Estate Investment Trust (REIT), the Washington Prime Group Inc.
      Richard S. Sokolov, of 7763 Silver Fox Dr., Boardman, president and chief operating officer of Simon Property Group, will serve as chairman of Washington Prime Group’s Board of Directors,
      Simon first announced the spin off in Dec., 2013.
      According to the Simon Property Group, “Washington Prime Group will be one of the most diversified portfolios of shopping centers in the U.S. retail real estate industry, initially comprised of 98 properties totaling 53 million square feet in 23 states. After completion of the planned spin-off from Simon, Washington Property Group intends to become an independent, publicly traded real estate investment trust on the New York Stock Exchange. “
      Whether or not the spin-off will benefit the continued development and maintenance of Southern Park Mall could be a matter of debate.
      A study of the spin off conducted by Merrill Lynch suggests the move will allow Simon to focus on its most valuable assets. Southern Park is not considered one of the firm’s most valuable assets.
      Southern Park is considered one of Simon’s 44 lowest-producing malls.
      The Southern Park Mall was constructed and first opened in 1970 by the Boardman-based Edward J. DeBartolo Corp.
      Simon purchased its assets in 1997, and since that time says it has poured some $19.5 million into capital improvements at Southern Park.
      Meeting last week, Mahoning County Commissioners vacated a street in front of the mall property that will allow for the construction of a Jared Galleria of Jewelry store at a cost of more than $1 million by the Cocca Development Ltd.
      Last year the Western Reserve Port Authority said it would help the mall obtain some $4 million in funding in a no interest loan to improve energy efficiency and roofing improvements to Southern Park. Boardman Trustees still have to sign-off on that proposal.
      The Simon Corp. suggests the Southern Park Mall serves some 102,515 households where the median age of 42.6-years-old and the average household income is $54,855 a year. Total population in the ‘trade area’ according to Simon is 242.877.
      The spin off suggests the Simon Group is concerned about its Sears and JCPenney outlets, and its liabilities with those companies could be reduced.
      A study of the spin off suggests that the Washington Prime Group Inc. will have a stronger balance sheet “that should allow the company to be a competitive consolidator within the lower quality mall space.”
      The spin off could create development opportunities that had been at the bottom of Simon’s priorities, the study by Merrill Lynch suggests.
  George Grim, 81, Left Legacy Of Community Service  
  Member of the Ohio Kiwanis Hall of Fame:   April 3, 2014 Edition  
George Grim
     Mr. George Grim, 81, of 9111 Sharrott Rd., died Thurs., Mar. 26 at the St. Elizabeth Health Center.
      Mr. Grim organized the Boardman Township Memorial Day parade for the past 12 years.
      He was a founding member of the Friends of Scouting Breakfast Committee that is entering its 10th year and has raised more than $150,000 for boy scout activities.
      Mr. Grim was a 50-year member of the Boardman Kiwanis Club, serving as its president in 2002, and also served Kiwanis as a Lt. Governor for District #21, from 2006-07. Mr. Grim was also instrumental for the last two decades in organizing the annual Easter Egg hunt for all elementary school children in the Boardman Local Schools that is held at Boardman Park. For his efforts as a Kiwanian, he was elected to the Ohio Kiwanis Hall of Fame.
      Known as a kind and gentle man, Mr. Grim was honored as the Citizen of the Year in 2010 by the Boardman Civic Association.
      He served as a member of the board of directors for the Boardman Community Foundation.
      Mr. Grim was active in boys scouts, where he earned Eagle Scout honors with a Silver Beaver Award, and the Bronze Pelican Religious Award. He also served on the advancement committee and commission for the Whispering Pines District BSA.
      He had been a Junior Canfield Fair Advisor since 1999, and also served as a committee member for the Canfield Fair.
      He was a U.S. Navy veteran with service aboard the USS Comstock.
      Mr. Grim was a member of St. Charles Church in Boardman where he served as a lector and usher; and was also a member of Holy Family Catholic Church in Beech Bottom, West Va.
      He was a graduate of West Liberty State College and was employed as a consulting systems engineer with IBM.
      Mr. Grim was born Nov. 29, 1932, in Greene County, Pa., the son of George and Fern (Barnhart) Grim.
      He leaves two sons, John L. (Teresa) Grim of Smyrna, Ga., and James E. Grim of University Heights, Oh., two grandsons, Alexander James and Julian Nathaniel Grim, and sister, Martha Augustine of Beech Bottom, West Va.
      Mr. Grim was buried at Kadesh Chapel Cemetery in Beech Bottom with military honors by the United States Navy and the Ohio Valley Veterans Memorial Squad. Boardman Kiwanians held a special memorial service last Saturday at Lane Funeral Home.
      In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to Boy Scouts Greater Western Reserve Council, 4930 Enterprise Blvd., Warren, Oh., 44481.
  GRETTA KNOWS ....You’re Gonna Love This Place  
  April 3, 2014 Edition  
     Good day my dear friends! I’m lying here stretched out on the soft green meadow grass with my head between my paws, feeling a light calming breeze against my fur, breathing in the fresh clean air. Ahh, I give out a long dog sigh, one that completely relaxes my whole body from the tip of my nose to the tip of my tail. This is such a beautiful place, free from pain, free from anger, free from fears, a heavenly place filled with love, kindness, peace, joy and lots of heavenly pals.
      Speaking of heavenly pals, I see a few heading up this way. It is so wonderful that many of my brothers and sisters from my hometown on earth gather here on this side of the meadow. We all watch out for each other, play together, bark together, comfort each other during those times when we miss our earthly homes and masters, yes we all have been blessed, being part of this heavenly family.
      We have been summoned by Sady, guardian of the Rainbow Bridge. One of our sisters from our earthly hometown will be arriving soon. We are excited to greet and welcome her, but we know what a difficult time it is for those who enter. Each of us recall that moment when we arrive here, as we stop and gaze back, yearning to return to our masters side, a place where we knew love and security, before we take that walk across the Bridge that forever takes us from the life we’ve known to our new heavenly home.
      We know how our masters are grieving and it hurts our hearts to know that those smiles we saw come over their faces when we greeted them or laid at their feet to comfort them, have turned to tears and loneliness. If our masters would only be able to see what a beautiful place we have arrived in, and how many new friends and past dog and cat pals we had known and meet up with again, their hearts would soon heal back to those smiles. We never forget the love and care they gave to us during our earthly stay, but this heavenly home is indescribable in words. God’s hand has touched this place and He gives us a such beautiful world to live in.
      As we head down to the Rainbow Bridge we notice a great crowd of cats and dogs gathering. All waiting in great anticipation to meet and welcome our new sister. Sady the guardian dog sits patiently as he waits. We see a black labrador arrive at the other end of the Bridge and Sady wags his tail to greet her. Her name is Shadow. Shadow looks around, his head lowered and his tail tucked between his back legs. Sady barks, “take your time, there is no rush, we know how hard it is to arrive in this new home and have to say goodbye”.
      Shadow barks, “I so want to snuggle with my masters and tell them how much they mean to me.” Shadow continues, “please don’t be sad, I am ok. It’s remarkable but I have no more pain, my body feels young again. I see this Bridge in front of me and there are so many dogs and cats waiting to greet me on the other side. I just want you to know that I will always love and miss you. You brought me into your home and gave me a life of love and happiness. Even when I was sick you did all you could for me. You always allowed me to be a part of your family, even when the family sang carols at Christmas, I stood brave through all those strange sounds and stayed near you. You always made me feel safe and secure. I will think of you and hold you in my heart, forever and ever. I was one lucky dog, so blessed to have lived my earthly life with you.”
      Shadow turned and nodded to Sady and together they began their walk across the Bridge. Shadow stopped, taking one last look back and then turned and began walking toward us. Of course when you get a bunch of dogs and cats together and one barks ‘welcome home’, we all have to join in. What a chorus! Even Shadow began barking along with us.
      I howled ‘C’mon everyone let’s show Shadow his new home’. We all ran up to the top of the hill and stopped so Shadow could see the awesome glory of this place. Shadow’s eyes took it all in, seeing large oak trees towering overhead, creating blankets of shade, and as far as he could see the meadow’s flowing grass never stopped. Suddenly, we saw Shadow’s gaze freeze as he spotted the creek below. We knew labs and water just go together, and we yelped...let’s go...running down the hill we all jumped into the creek, splashing and jumping with such excitement.
      Shadow put his head up and barked ‘I think I am going to love this place’..... as he turned I noticed his doggy grin and sure enough....his tail was awaggin’. Welcome home Shadow!
      In Memory of Shadow • 2/21/2000 - 3/20/2014
  Compco Celebrates 60 Year Anniversary  
  April 3, 2014 Edition  
Team Compco announces 60 years in business
     Columbiana, OH: Compco Industries, a family owned and operated business, currently in their third generation of ownership, has achieved a milestone of celebrating 60 years earning a respected reputation as a premier supplier, delivering high quality American made products to a variety of industries nationwide including: agriculture, air, cryogenics, gas and oil, HVACR, lawn and garden, pump and vacuum, pressure vessel, propane, sporting goods, transportation and water storage.
      Formed in 1954 by Clarence Smith Sr. and Martin Poschner, Compco started as a manufacturer in Youngstown, OH, producing metal pipe hangers for Commercial Piping Co. Compco, operated by Mr. Smith’s son, Clarence Smith Jr., realized they had a unique ability to provide quality metal products to meet their customer’s specific needs and expanded its product line. Compco soon became a leading producer of tank heads, used in the pressure vessel, water storage, propane, cryogenics and air receiver industries.
      The tank head production outgrew the Youngstown facility, and in 1981, Compco enlarged its operation to include a plant in East Palestine, OH. With the rapid escalation of steel prices in the early 2000’s, Compco restructured their business plan, under the third generation leadership of Clarence Smith Jr’s son, Greg Smith. Keeping their main focus on their commitment to excellence in serving the customer with quality metal products and superior service, Compco consolidated its operations under one roof, moving into a 238,000 square foot facility located in Columbiana, OH.
      As Compco Industries celebrates its 60th year, Compco continues to increase its production quality, add state of the art automation, produce new products and invest in new equipment, to meet their customer specific demands. Compco has grown to be one of the nation’s major suppliers of high quality ASME, DOT, and Non-code tank heads, with capabilities ranging from 4” to 120” in diameter, in a variety of thicknesses, available in carbon steel, stainless steel and aluminum. Compco Industries also produces a wide range of metal stampings, ASME Elliptical Manways, and offers in-house cut-to-length capabilities.
      The Smith family’s legacy has been built upon respect, consistency, and a tradition of excellence. The Smith family believes that Compco’s greatest asset has always been its team members. “Team Compco is comprised of men and women, many third and fourth generation employees, who share similar core values and are united in proudly serving our customers and producing quality products,” states Greg Smith, of Boardman, Compco’s Chairman of the Board. “Compco Industries remains focused on the success of the customer. By always putting our customers first, we take pride in finding innovative solutions specifically tailored to each of their individual needs.”
      Team Compco is built on one foundation, that there is only one boss, and whether a person shines shoes for a living or heads up the largest corporation in the world, the boss remains the same. It’s you, The Customer. For more information visit Compco Industries at www.compcoind.com.
     
  Boardman School Board Moves Towards Mandatory Drug Testing Program  
  March 27, 2014 Edition  
     Acting upon the recommendations of a 14-member committee, the Boardman Board of Education took the first step in approving a mandatory drug-testing policy for students during its meeting on Monday night held at Center Middle School.
      After a presentation by George Statler, spokesperson of the committee, the school board unanimously approved the first reading of the proposed policy. It could take effect next month when the board votes on the second reading of the proposal.
      None of the 40 or so persons who stayed at the board meeting to hear the board approve the first reading of the proposal, objected to the new policy.
      The new policy will at first be geared to fall sports teams and the some 500 students who drive to Boardman High School for classes.
      The new policy, if approved, mandates that hair samples be taken and tested by a drug screening.
      “Five classes of drugs will be tested through the hair sampling, including cocaine, marihuana, opiates, methamphetamine and phencyclidine,” according to the proposed policy.
      “Many parents, PTA members and teachers have expressed concerns asking what can be done to help the young people in our community,” said Statler, a now retired Boardman police officer who spent 27 of his 32-year career in drug enforcement.
      “The problem is closer than we may think...Drug abuse is very scary and it appears to be an ever-increasing issue playing itself out in communities like our, all across the country, Statler said.
      The longtime drug enforcement officer told the school board “A mandatory drug testing policy would provide not only a strong positive message to the students and the community, it would also [provide a safer, healthier learning environment---academically, athletically and socially.”
      Statler suggested a “mandatory drug testing policy would provide a learning environment built with good choices---of you test positive, you lose privileges.”
      Statler indicated however, a mandatory policy would not be designed to be punitive.
      “Such a policy would provide an avenue of assistance for students, through identification and rehabilitation of a student who has a substance abuse problem,” Statler said.
      He noted a hair sample test “provides an approximate 90-day window into the history of substance abuse, as well as a test that is almost impossible to defeat.
      “This information can then be utilized to help with the counseling and rehabilitation of the student.”
      Statler also said a mandatory drug testing policy will empower students ‘to just say no,’ because of the consequences of testing positive.
      “The focus of a mandatory drug testing policy is to identify students at risk...and help them return to the school community to continue their education and set them on a path to success. The testing program will be academically non-punitive,” he added.
      Boardman High School Principal Jared Cardillo told the school board a mandatory drug testing policy provides an avenue to “help our students. We are educators, we all love kids and we are here to help.”
      The principal said since hair samples provide the most accurate information, “Our kids will realize very quickly that this is no joke.
      “I hope this policy provides an incentive for our kids to make good choices.”
      Also addressing the school board was another member of the drug testing committee, Betsy Slater.
      “It is my opinion that implementing a drug testing policy in the Boardman Local Schools is a sure fire way of helping students live healthier and safer lives...Consider the culture in which kids are growing up, and understand how mandatory drug testing can change lives for the better,” Slater said, adding “I know drugs can destroy users and tear apart families.”
      Only two other schools in the area have adopted mandatory drug testing policies, Struthers and Western Reserve; and Lowelville High School tests all student-athletes.
      Boardman Supt. Frank Lazzeri noted decision of the Ohio Supreme Court affirm drug testing for extra-curricular activities.
      He stressed the policy will be designed to help any student who may test positive.
      While the new policy mandates drug testing for students, it does not mandate teachers and non-certified staff be tested.
      A draft of the proposed no policy requires mandatory drug testing “Before a student is permitted to participate in an extra-curricular activity..”
      The proposed policy mandates that drug testing results “will be confidentially provided by the testing company directly to the school district...The student’s parents will then be contacted and a conference will be scheduled to discuss appropriate interventions.”
      Although the school board has no current policy on drug testing its current staff, the board has adopted a ‘drug-free workplace policy.’
      That policy mandates that all prospective employees “must pass a drug test before beginning work or receiving an offer of employment...Refusal to submit to testing will result in the disqualification of further employment consideration.”
      According to Boardman Police Chief Jack Nichols, “Opiate use and drug addiction is the biggest quality of life issue in out community. It is truly an epidemic.”
      Prior to Monday’s meeting, the first group of students were tested. They were members of Mike Trell’s Boardman Lady Spartan softball team. Mr. Trell’s daughter died last year of suspected drug-related causes. Also submitting to the test were members of the school administration and school board.
      The Rest of the Meeting
      Monday night’s meeting of the board opened with recognition to students who participated in the Quiz Bowl, and high school swim, cross country, bowling, wrestling and indoor track teams.
      The school board accepted resignations from four teachers, Susan Friedrich, third grade at West Blvd.; Charlene Galose, Glenwood Middle art; Kathleen Rothman, Glenwood fifth grade English; and Charles Yorde, high school industrial arts.
      Classified staff members submitting resignations included bus driver Anthony Cordova, Robinwood Lane noontime aide Martha Ferenchak, and bus aide Roula Santamas.
      Parental leaves of absence were granted to Laura Pfahler and Krista Schmied.
      A disability leave of absence was approved for Christine Terlesky, effective Apr. 1.
      Approved as a second grade teacher at market St. Elementary School was Emily McFarland.
      Aaron Miller was granted a limited contract as a night custodian at Stadium Dr., and Jolene Robison was granted a contract as a bus driver.
      Four administrative contracts were renewed, including Al Cervello, West Blvd. principal, $80,643; Don Robinson, Robinwood Lane principal, $85,482; Bart Smith, Center Middle assistant principal, $64,319; and Jack Zoolo, coordinator of special education and special services, $85,482. Each of those contract renewals runs to July 31, 2017.
  School Board Member Amstutz Recovering From Cardiac Arrest  
  CPR Saved His Life:   March 20, 2014 Edition  
      Boardman Local School Board President Nik Amstutz, 50, is recuperating from cardiac arrest suffered on Sun., Mar. 9 during a meeting of the committee raising funds to construct a new stadium at Boardman High School.
      While at the meeting, held at Center Middle School, Amstutz collapsed and was turning blue.
      Immediately to his aid was the school system’s business manager, Tim Saxton, who administered CPR before emergency crews arrived.
      “If not for all the quick-thinking people and Tim performing CPR, Nik may not be with us today,” his wife, Ginny, said on Facebook.
      Emergency crews took Amstutz to St. Elizabeth Hospital in Boardman, where after nearly half-an-hour. medical personnel found a pulse and heart beat. Mrs. Amstutz said her husband was “placed on a vent and moved to the intensive care unit.”
      The following day, Amstutz was transported to St. Elizabeth in Youngstown, for a heart catheterization procedure. However, doctors felt it best to postpone the procedure and instead, air-lifted Amstutz to the Cleveland Clinic.
      The procedure there revealed clear arteries and no blockages, Mrs. Amstutz said, adding her husband “has had a few setbacks, but he is alert, off the vent and knows everyone by name...He has a way to go, but is on the right track to recovery. We are taking it one day at a time”
      Amstutz suffered the heart attack because of diabetes, his wife said.
      “His blood sugar was so high and had been for some time that his heart was thrown out of rhythm and he went into cardiac arrest.”
      Saxton said he had received CPR training several years ago, and when the time came, “I used it. It’s what you had to do in that situation.”
      Nik and his wife are the parents of two children, Steven and Lizzie.
      Mrs. Amstutz said the Cleveland Clinic has given her husband “amazing care.”
  MarkWest Energy Bought Entire Rail Line To Obtain Right Of Way For Pipeline In Pennsylvania  
  March 20, 2014 Edition  
     Boardman Township officials and representatives of the MarkWest Energy and the Youngstown and Southeastern Railroad met last week to discuss the five miles of railway that stretches along Southern Blvd. in the township.
      The rail line, that stretches from Youngstown some 28 miles to Darlington, Pa., was recently purchased for $3.2 million by MarkWest from the Columbiana County Port Authority.
      Township officials, dating back more than four decades, have long complained the rail line is an eyesore, unkept and pocked with litter.
      “MarkWest told us they purchased the entire rail line in order to obtain a right of way for the installation of a pipe line in western Pennsylvania,” Trustee Thomas Costello said this week.
      Costello said MarkWest pledged to help and maintain the rail line better than its previous owner; and also said the line would continue to be operated by the Youngstown and Southeastern Railway.
      “We had good, honest conversation,” Costello said, noting that MarkWest officials indicated they didn’t want any problems with communities along the railway.
      “We talked about the lack of maintenance, and railway officials at the meeting indicated the previous owner (the Columbiana County Port Authority) would not let the Youngstown and Southeastern spend money on maintenance,” Costello said,
      Sarah Gartland, Boardman Township Zoning Inspector, said “we wanted to make clear our issues with the rail line. We expressed our concerns about junk along the line, lack of maintenance and box cars with graffiti.”
      The rail line had been purchased by Railroad Ventures some 15 years ago for about $800,000. The firm, headquartered in Boardman, wanted to abandoned the line and turn it into a hike and bike trail, a proposal that was supported by Boardman Township and Boardman Park.
      In costly litigation, Drake and the port authority argued before the STB that railway served upwards of nine businesses along the railway and was needed for commerce.
      David Handel, head of Railroad Ventures, claimed most of those businesses were located at the northern tip of Appalachia in Columbiana County, and they had indeed gone out of business.
      The port authority prevailed, and forced sale of the line for some $1.4 million.
      Up until the shale industry boom in Columbiana County, the Youngstown and Southeastern had served to transport construction debries, (trucked from New York state to the northern terminal of the line in Youngstown), then transported by rail to a dump site in Negley, Oh. That site is now reportedly closed.
      Principle transport seen along the line almost daily, are shiploads of pipe, used for drilling the wells in Columbiana County; and an underground pipeline, currently under construction.
      So decrepit is the railroad line, that cars are not permitted to move faster than 10-miles-per-hour along its stretch.
      Trustee Costello said MarkWest has asked the Youngstown and Southeastern Railway to seek funds for needed improvements on the tracks at the intersection of Maple Ave. and Southern Blvd.
      MarkWest Energy Partners, L.P. (NYSE: MWE) is a publicly traded master limited partnership (MLP) formed in Jan., 2002, engaged in the gathering, processing, and transportation of natural gas; the transportation, fractionation, storage, and marketing of NGLs; and the gathering and transportation of crude oil.
      MarkWest says the majority of its growth since 2007 has focused on the development of natural gas supplies and the firm is the largest processor of natural gas in the Marcellus Shale, with fully integrated processing, fractionation, storage, and marketing operations, critical to the rich-gas development in the northeast United States.
     
  Gretta Knows.....Spring....A New Beginning!  
  March 20, 2014 Edition  
     Good day my friends! Well it looks as though Spring may slowly be arriving. I see a glimpse of renewed energy in so many of you as the sun has reappeared and the white stuff is staying away. Even though we don’t see the seasonal changes here in ‘doggy heaven’ we still sense the rebirth is beginning to take place. It seems to be ingrained in our senses, since we all experienced Springs arrival after a long cold winters sleep, in our earthly homes.
      This morning, like every morning, my heavenly pals and I gather around on the top of the hill overlooking the endless green grassy meadows below, allowing the sun to warm our fur, when we overhear Lucky and Squeeky, the felines of the bunch, reminiscing about their excitement at the first signs of Spring. Lucky meows, “when the door was finally opened and we were released to the fresh air of the outdoors after being cooped up all winter” “Ooooooh, free to be on the prowl again, as the great hunter inside us takes over, and we search for the little varmints that might be scurrying about” Squeeky purrs. Then they went on to say how proud they were as they returned to the door, cleaning their fur and paws from battle and once inside, feeling the comfort and security of their home, they’d take a nap.
      Kachina, my black lab brother, recalls how Spring was so exhilarating. The air smelled so fresh and clean, and he remembers hearing the birds seem to come to life as their songs echoed through the air. The sun would warm his fur ever so slightly, but the sunlight would rejuvenate him and he’d run through the grass. How wonderful it felt to stretch those legs, and then realize that age had added one more year and that his body is somewhat slower to respond than last Spring. His master would pick up a stick and toss it into the air as he’d jump to retrieve it. Oh how alive, how free he felt. Walking alongside his master as the earth began to awaken from the long winter, how glorious it was! He’d begin to run away and his master would call reminding him of his boundaries and where he must stay. He remarked at how he’d return, even though there were times he wanted to keep on running, but knowing that he never wishes to leave his masters side. His master always kept him safe, fed him, loved him and the best of all, he allowed hIm to sleep next to him on that big comfy bed, ahhhhhh!
      ....yes, how thankful we are for our masters! No howling can express the gratitude we will always carry in our hearts their undconditional love and care. I recalled how my master would take me outdoors when the Spring weather appeared. He’d pull out tennis balls that he had tucked into his pocket to toss my way, for he knew that is what I loved to do. I’d dream of chasing those tennis balls all winter, just something within me, I had to run after that ball, fetch it, and my master was such a good sport, he’d throw it over and over and over. The best part was just him and me playing, without my sister Mia who would always beat me to the ball and run away with it. I was alone with my master and he made me feel so special. He’d secretely tell me how we’d soon be in the woods camping, sitting around the campfire, playing in the creek, just the two of us. Yes springtime......it’s arrived......
      ..... a new beginning, a time of new growth, a time of renewed energy, an awakening within. All my heavenly pals suddenly sprang to their paws and barked in unison....Everyone can feel it. Everyone can see it! Spring is a gift for everyone! It’s a bit of Heaven on earth! Our tails are a waggin’.....
     
     
      “It’s spring fever. That is what the name
      of it is. And when you’ve got it, you want—oh, you don’t quite know what it is you do want, but it just fairly makes your heart ache,
      you want it so!”
      -- Mark Twain
     
      Gretta, a Golden Retriever, spent almost 15 years at
      The Boardman News. She greeted all who entered with a wag of her tail! She died in November of 2012.
      Send your animal tributes/stories to: The Boardman News, 8302 Southern Blvd., S2A, Boardman, OH 44512 or
      email to: gwen@boardmannews.net
  Chemicals For Possible Meth Lab Found After Fire At Glenwood Ave. Home  
  March 13, 2014 Edition  
     A fire that was reported shortly after 4:00 p.m. on Sat., Mar. 1, revealed a possible meth lab in the basement of the home, according to an affidavit for a search warrant approved four days after the blaze by Boardman Court Judge Joseph Houser.
      The home had been purchased by Teresa Dutcher on Jan. 31, 2014.
      Reportedly, her son, Michael Goughenour, 31, had moved into the home only about 12 hours before the fire was reported.
      Lt. James McCreary, of the Boardman Fire Department, said a neighbor told fire officials that Goughenour left the residence prior to fire-fighters arriving on the scene. McCreary also told police he had learned from the Salem Police Department that Goughenour “is known to them to be involved in methamphetamine.”
      Sgt. Michael Hughes, head of the Boardman Police Department’s Narcotics Enforcement Unit (NEU), learned the fire started in the basement of the home, where police and fire officials found a bottle of Heet, a can of Drain Out, a bottle of muriatic acid, a hot plate, an exhaust fan and venting tubing; coffee filters and two mason jars containing a clear liquid that was believed to be flammable.
      In the affidavit for a search warrant signed by Judge Houser, Det. Michael Dado said “the fire...was the result of a possible meth lab. In the area where the fire started was a plastic jug with a split down its side. Also near the jug was a bottle containing a commercial chemical thought to be used to manufacture methamphetamine...If the jug is not vented properly while manufacturing [the drug], the jug would explode and split down the side.” Dado described this type of meth manufacturing as ‘the one pot method.’
      Dado also said he spoke with Columbiana County Drug Task Force Commander Lt. Brian McGlaughin “who stated the Goughenour is a known methamphetamine manufacturer.”
      As on Mon., Mar. 10, police had been unable to locate Goughenour. They did speak with his mother, Teresa Dutcher.
      “Dutcher inquired if we had made any contact with Michael since this incident. Dutcher wanted to provide us with her information, should we make contact with Michael,” Ptl. Brian Cionni reported.
      A search of the home also turned-up suspected drug paraphernalia and a baggie of pot, Sgt. Hughes said.
      According to a report of the Boardman Fire Department, the fire caused $68,000 damage.
     
  Addiction: A Mom’s Point Of View  
  March 13, 2014 Edition  
     I am a mother who watched my youngest son suffer from an opiate addiction until his death on Apr. 24, 2007. I am now watching my surviving son suffer from an opiate addiction. Like his brother, he too has come close to death, and he says he is trying to change that course. He says that he doesn’t want to die, so did my youngest son. But drugs kill.
      I am writing out of total frustration, grief, despair, helplessness...but not hopelessness. I am not sure what today will bring.
      My surviving son graduated from law school in 2006 and since his brother’s death he has struggled with an opiate addiction. He was out of treatment when two attorneys gave him a chance to rebuild his life. They allowed him to volunteer his time until an opportunity for employment was available, and they hired him.
      His work was labeled ‘exemplary,’ until late last year, in December, he showed up at work unkept, wet, screaming, had no socks and shoes on (it was 30 degrees that day) and was delirious. When the police arrived, they found several drugs in his pocket.
      I will never make excuses for him. I expect him to be the best version of himself and nothing less. As a mother, his medical conditions might be easier to treat then his addiction.
      After not hearing from him for a day in April of last year, I found him on the floor, blue, not breathing with blood around his head, and was told by paramedics that he was an hour from death. From there it was the year from hell.
      Many times I found him unable to move with blood on his face and head because of falling down the stairs or in the bathroom. On Dec. 23 when he was taken to Trumbull Memorial Hospital, I prayed so hard for a Christmas miracle because I knew he would never make it another week. I was grateful that he got a chance to live. All I could see was death in his future and frankly I wasn’t sure how I would handle burying the last of my children,
      My heart bleeds for all of them, these addicts, alcoholics, gamblers and the mentally ill, for I believe that they truly suffer from a disease that destroys their mind, body and spirit. My heart goes out to those who die without some foundation of trust and hope.
      My son showed up at work that day because he didn’t have enough insight and control to stop himself. He walked several miles to get to work in that condition ... no sleep, high on drugs, in physical pain and fear of losing a job that he probably didn’t even remember that he loved. He walked because he traded his car the day before for heroin.
      This heroin addiction is an epidemic that we must face as a nation, and particularly in our own community. My son would have never gone to work like that if he was clean. What coherent, rational man would show up for work with drugs in his pocket, unkept, screaming, outside on a 30-degree day with no shoes?
      It appears to be daily, that we are reading or hearing about how this opiate drug epidemic Is creates havoc in our lives ... we are losing too many of the people that we love and there are too many crimes being committed to support these addictions.
      There are too many of us who have these lost souls in our families. This is a story of what can happen when someone allows addiction to go untreated. My son was being challenged and he didn’t make the right choices.
      These men and women who live with an addiction learn that it shames them, humiliates them, destroys their relationships and jobs that they love and most importantly creates spiritual destruction in their lives. My son, Christopher who passed away from opiate addiction, referred to drugs ... as “the devil” that had a hold on him.
      Addicts/alcoholics need to know that there is a home, if they reach for it.
      The first Thanksgiving after my son Chris died, I volunteered at the Rescue Mission to feed the homeless. What I saw were many faces that reminded me of my son---middle America young men and women who once had a future until they became addicts/alcoholics. I fed them with total compassion, empathy, love and respect for their disease. I wondered if someone gave my son something hot to eat or drink when he was so scared and alone in the darkest days of his life. I hope so.
      We have a drug epidemic that is taking our children, spouses and people we love---look in their eyes when they are actively using---you won’t find them. We need to stand strong, work together, get educated and show some compassion. These men and women might look like the arm pit of society. I believe they didn’t choose to be addicted, they just aren’t choosing to seek treatment and work their programs, take meds that are recommended and talk to counselors, psychologists and psychiatrists who will look in their eyes, with every appointment, hoping to see some life again, bring back some hope for them. (Editor’s note: Too often, those seeking addiction treatment are just prescribed a bevy of drugs. These drugs feed the addictive process, and do not rehabilitate).
      My living son is embarking on yet another day of abstinence from drugs, taking the new medications he was prescribed and working his program with a sponsor. I keep reminding him to keep his chin up because this too shall pass---it’s a day at a time. We end everyday with I love you because after losing Chris, we both have learned that life can change forever in a blink of addiction.
      submitted by Marilyn Burns
  Boardman Park Selected For Macy’s ‘Heart Your Park’ Campaign Mar. 7-3  
  March 13, 2014 Edition  
     Boardman Park has been selected for “Heart Your Park,” a program introduced as part of Macy’s “Secret Garden” campaign, that aims to raise awareness and dollars for local parks across the country. From Mar. 7 to Mar. 31, customers at Macy’s, Southern Park Mall, can donate $1 or more at the register, with 100 percent of the donations benefiting Boardman Park. To further spread the love, Macy’s will match the total customer donation across all stores, dollar for dollar, up to $250,000 in total.
      Boardman Park is one of more than 550 parks nationwide that will benefit from Macy’s “Heart Your Park” this spring. In partnership with the National Recreation and Park Association (NRPA), the national non-profit organization dedicated to the advancement of community parks, recreation and conservation, Macy’s stores across the country have each selected a local park or green space in their community to support through the program. Donations will go toward making improvements, such as maintaining trails, park facilities, playgrounds, ball fields, and everything in between.
      “We are thrilled to partner Macy’s and NRPA for ‘Heart Your Park’ this spring, “said Daniel Slagle, Jr., Boardman Park, Executive Director. “Through this wonderful program and donations by Macy’s customers, we are excited about the increased awareness and additional funding for the Park. Boardman Park, the Green Oasis, is a great asset to our Community, and we greatly appreciate Macy’s support.”
      “Heart Your Park” is part of Macy’s “Secret Garden” spring campaign that will come to life at Macy’s stores and on macys.com with an infusion of garden-inspired merchandise, special promotions and events. For more information on “Secret Garden,” visit macys.com/secretgarden. For a full list of the parks benefiting from Macy’s “Heart Your Park,” visit macys.com/parks.
     
  Battling ALS, BHS Teacher Leaves Her Post  
  March 6, 2014 Edition  
A COMMUNITY RALLY in support of Boardman High School teacher and coach, Christine Terlesky, pictured, will be held Sun., Apr. 6,
     Longtime Boardman Local School teacher and coach, Christine Terlesky, has been forced to take a medical leave of absence after being diagnosed with ALS, more commonly known as Lou Gehrig’s disease.
      Mrs. Terlesky began her career in 1997 with the Boardman Local School District.
      Last Friday was her last day in the classroom, and she posted the following on Facebook:
      “Words cannot express how thankful I am to everyone for the unbelievable support my family and I have received from all of you. There really are no words.
      “For those of you who don’t know, my life was changed forever in September when I was diagnosed with ALS, better known as Lou Gehrig’s disease. It destroys the motor neurons of the body until everything stops.
      “Today I had to leave my job. It wasn’t just a job to me. I am a teacher, I have always been a teacher. I love being a teacher. I worked at Boardman High School. I have been at Boardman my entire life and loved it.
      “To my colleagues---You are the best people in the world. You are great teachers but even better people. I am heartbroken that I will not see you every day. I will always be proud to have taught side-by-side with you. I will always remember how you supported me and my family---from words of encouragement to meals to a wonderful party, thank you.
      To my principal, who was understanding and supportive in every way, thank you.
      To my assistant principal, who literally picked me up when I was down. Who shared tears, hugs and laughs with me.... thank you.
      . To my students---The reason I got into teaching. The students at Boardman are truly special. These kids are absolutely amazing. I laugh when people tell me teenagers have changed. The gadgets have changed, entertainment has changed...kids haven’t, kids will always be kids. They want someone to care, they want to be taught, they want to care about others...so give them a chance to do it.
      I told my classes today that this disease has taken the job I love, it has taken my body, but it cannot take my heart, it cannot touch my soul. As much as ALS has taken from me, it has given me the ability to appreciate life...it has given me the ability to love better...it has shown me the true goodness of humanity that exists all around us.
      So on my last heartbreaking day of teaching, I hope I taught my best lesson. Thank you Boardman...from the bottom of my heart.
  Former Bar Association President, Two Others Indicted For Extortion  
  March 6, 2014 Edition  
     A former president of the Mahoning County Bar Association, another lawyer and a Boardman businessman have been indicted by the United States government on charges they tried to extort money from a local marihuana cultivator.
      Former bar president Scott Cochran, 43, of 6830 Fairview Rd., Austintown, his law partner, Neal Atway, 47, of 5800 Cherrywood Ct., Boardman and businessman Mohdammed Rawhneh, 54, of 7538 Huntington Dr., were arraigned last week.
      It is alleged they conspired to extort Charles Muth, 44, of Canfield, who is currently serving a 23 month jail term after a conviction on a federal marihuana cultivation charge, and a conviction on charges of ethnic intimidation and aggravated menacing. Muth operated the Cornersburg Party Shop, 3727 Tippecanoe Rd.
      According to an indictment filed in the U.S. District Court, Northern District of Ohio, Eastern Division, the six-count indictment was filed charging Cochran, Atway and Rawhneh with Hobbs Act conspiracy, conspiracy to obstruct justice, making false statements and related charges, said Steven M. Dettelbach, United States Attorney for the Northern District of Ohio, and Stephen D. Anthony, Special Agent in Charge of the Federal Bureau of Investigation’s Cleveland Office.
      Cochran is a former president of the Mahoning County Bar Association, and currently serves as a trustee.
      On Christmas Day, 2011, Rawhneh filed a police report with the Boardman Police Department saying he had received several threatening phone calls.
      Rawhneh said he received three calls, including threats to kill him and his family while he was being called such names as ‘“moth-- f--ker and sand nigger.”
      While taking the report of the allegations, Ptl. Jeffrey Lytle said “another call came in” and the officer “heard a male swearing and making threats.”
      According to a search warrant affidavit prepared by Det. Greg Stepuk of the Boardman Police Department, police traced the call that Officer Lytle answered.
      “The private number making the threats...revealed that it was an AT&T number assigned to Charles Muth,” Stepuk wrote in the affidavit.
      Three days later, near 2:00 a.m., police were summoned to the home of Rawhneh’s ex-wife, Aimee K. Benton, 43, of 7489 Jaguar Dr., where Officer Lytle took a report of discharging a firearm into a habitation and felonious assault.
      Benton and Rawhneh were married in Nov., 2003 in West Virgina; and they divorced in Sept., 2005.
      At the Jaguar Dr. home, Officer Lytle spoke with Rawhneh and Benton.
      Benton told police she and her 7-year-old daughter, Nadia, were sleeping in the living room of the home when she heard approximately four gunshots.
      “Benton stated since she was asleep, she was not sure at first what happened, so she sent a text message to Rawhneh, who then called her,” Officer Lytle said.
      When Rawhneh got to the home, he called police.
      Stepuk interviewed Rawhneh, who said that Muth was a former close friend and business associate.
      “Rawhneh stated that he and Muth had a falling out [in 2009] in which Muth believes Rawhneh turned him into the Ohio Department of Taxation for improperly reporting sales tax collected at his business,” Stepuk said in the search warrant affidavit.
      Police found two bullet holes on the outside of the home, and inside found two bullet holes in what was believed to be the child’s bedroom. Suspected damage from the bullets was also found inside the home on a ceiling fan and an armoire, Officer Lytle reported.
      Also in the home at the time of the shooting was a family friend, identified as Dominique Gilmore, 21, who was sleeping in an upstairs bedroom.
      “None of the victims were shot or reported to be injured,” Officer Lytle said.
      Rawhneh’s former home was also the subject of a surveillance directed by the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA), that logged license plates on vehicles coming and going from 7489 Jaguar Dr.
      The investigation into the shooting led police to a Muth rented at 9075 Briarwood Ct., Canfield where on a search warrant for the gun used in the shooting was issued.
      Law enforcement found more than 400 marihuana plants yielding some 20,000 grams of pot under cultivation in the rented home, reported owned by Richard Saul when they first arrived to serve the warrant.
      A warrant was issued for Muth’s arrest and he was taken into custody on Jan. 9, 2012 at John Hopkins International Airport in Cleveland, apparently landing there after a trip out of state. Originally, Muth is reported to have left the area on a flight out of Pittsburgh, leaving his car there. Muth was booked on charges of the illegal manufacture of drugs, aggravated menacing and ethnic intimidation. He was released on a $15,750 bond.
      Now the subject of a local and federal cases, Muth hired Atway as his counsel in both cases, and according to the government, “on occasion, Cochran helped to represent Muth in the state case (menacing and ethnic intimidation).”
      The indictment filed last week notes that Muth “independently recorded conversations with his lawyers.”
      Once Muth retained Atway, the indictment alleges that Atway, Cochran and Rawhneh conspired extort Muth, “induced by wrongful use of actual and threatened force, violence and fear...to enrich themselves...”
      Rawhneh and Atway “led Muth to believe that Rawhneh would cause physical ham to Muth,” says the indictment.
      Rawhneh and Atway had known each other previously, including in 1997 when Atway served as counsel for Rawhneh in a court case in Mahoning County.
      And, according to a variety of sources, Rawhneh and Muth had issues ‘over money’ at the time Muth was arrested on the cultivation, menacing and intimidation charges.
      “Atway and Cochran, while they were purportedly representing Muth as his lawyers, in fact, helped to formulate the means by which Rawhneh would obtain money and property from Muth,” the indictment that was issued last week alleges.
      The government says Atway, Cochran and Rawhneh conspired to extort Muth from about Apr., 2012 to Nov. 2012.
      According to the indictment, on Nov. 9, 2012, there was a conversation between Atway, Cochran and Rawhneh.
      Atway tells Rawhneh that he and Cochran are on a speaker phone, when Cochran says “Mo, you got to pay for the dry cleaner coming in [to his office] and wash my couch and chair because this guy [Muth] just shitted in his pants in my conference room.”
      Atway tells Rawhneh that Muth “just came in with $5600 cash...he agreed to give you the mortgage against his property, and he agreed to pay you $5000 a month for he next nine months, because that is all he can afford to pay, and he is begging you to take this offer, and he wants to apologize to you, face to face, like a man.”
      Later in the conversation, Rawhneh seems to reject the offer, saying $5000 would not cover the cost of the damage to Rawhneh’s former home on Jaguar Dr.
      “I don’t know any other way to get you the money,” Cochran responds, according to the indictment, at which point Atway is quoted as saying, “Take whatever you can get off this faggot...He’s worth more...alive than dead.”
      “Not really,” Rawhneh replies. “I would rather see somebody kill him and he can shove that f--king money up his ass.” You know what I mean, f--k him and f--k the money if you want the truth.”
      According to the indictment, Rawhneh says “Is he [Muth] playing russian roulette...I don’t give a f--k if I get a f--king rocket, I am gonna blow it right there, me and him. Is he that stupid?”
      According to the indictment, Atway tells Rawhneh, “Anytime he [Muth] sees you, he gets nervous too.”
      Cochran then chimes back in, according to the indictment, saying “Well, I just don’t want the mother f--ker crying in my office anymore. Alright?”
      Rawhneh responds, “Well too bad, he’s your client. You are making money from him. The more he cries, the more money you make. So shut the hell up Scott.”
      According to the indictment, about an hour after the conversation between the attorneys and Rawhneh, the pair of lawyers converse with Muth.
      Muth asks if Rawhneh was interested in a convenient store Muth apparently operated on Dresden St. in East Liverpool known as Crawford’s Market.
      According to the indictment, Cochran responds to Muth, “he wants $50,000 and if you don’t have that, he said he would take Dresden. He’d prefer you just pay him the money.”
      The next day, the indictment says that Atway talked to Rawhneh, advising Rawhneh, “We [Atway and Cochran] talked to the jackass [Muth] yesterday.”
      According to the indictment, Rawhneh calls Muth a jackass and Atway laughs, responding about his client, “Yeah, you are right.”
      On Nov. 14, 2012, FBI agents interviewed Atway and Cochran and according to the indictment, on Nov. 15, Atway told Rawhneh that he no longer represented Muth.
      “Atway, Cochran and Rawhneh made false and misleading statements and material misrepresentations to the FBI,” says the indictment.
      Among those misrepresentations, according to the indictment, “When the FBI asked, has Mo Rawhneh ever said anything like in the third person, I wish somebody would kill him, Atway replied no.”
      All three were arraigned last week before U.S. Magistrate Judge Kenneth S, McHargh and all three entered pleas of not guilty.
      Rawhneh and Cochran each posted appearance bonds of $25,000 and Atway posted an appearance bond of $250,000.
  Amstutz In New Venture With WorkForce  
  March 6, 2014 Edition  
     When Black Monday struck the Mahoning Valley in 1977, Boardman resident and current school board president Nik Amstutz was barely a teenager.
      “The closing of the steel mills tore through our communities, our families,” recalls Amstutz. “It’s something you never forget. The effects are still all around us today. Housing vacancies are huge, crime is high, unemployment is still painful.”
      That memory of the past has become a powerful motivation for the future to Amstutz, who launched a new business in December: WorkForce Testing, a full service drug testing and background screening company serving area businesses, schools and families.
      “We’re on the edge of an economic explosion,” he explains. “Hydraulic fracking technology means we can get at oil and gas that used to be inaccessible. And we’re sitting on top of a natural gas deposit big enough to supply the U.S. for the next hundred years!”
      All of this requires new factories to provide drilling and transporting equipment. And that means new jobs. V&M Star has already pumped over a billion dollars into the region through its massive Youngstown pipe mill and a finishing plant in Girard.
      “That’s just the beginning,” says Amstutz. “As the infrastructure grows, it will need more manufacturing, support industries and trucking services. And most of those will be under Department of Transportation regulation.”
      That is significant for his new company because DOT requires workplace drug programs and regular testing for employees—something he ready and able to provide on any scale. And he sees other possibilities as area business expands.
      “As the economy grows, Workforce Testing grows. Unemployment is already dropping. New workers means more housing. I give landlords access to fast state-of-the-art online tenant background checks any time of day or night.”
      As president of a former business and through his other work experience, Amstutz has gained valuable knowledge of both customer service and workplace conditions to build his company’s success on. But he sees his business as more than just a financial opportunity. A lifelong native of Boardman, he has a history of activism and community service, including multiple terms on the Boardman School Board as well as being past president of the Boardman Rotary. To him, this new enterprise is another chance to give back to his community.
      “Sure, I intend to reap the benefits of a growing economy,” he says. “But I want this to be a great place to live and a sound economy is only part of the picture. Drug abuse is a serious problem and a big part of our high crime rate. Drug testing can help in the war against abuse, and not just in the workplace. I provide testing services, products, and drug education programs for schools and families as well.”
      In addition to onsite instant drug testing and laboratory testing, WorkForce offers an environmental detection program. “We can actually detect microscopic evidence of drug use on desks, computers, backpacks, car interiors—almost any surface. This means employers can know if they have problems before confronting a worker. It means parents know where they stand regarding drug use by their kids before they have that all-important conversation. Knowing is the first step toward preventing.
      “My wife and I have two children in middle school,” Amstutz says. “We’ve seen the toll drugs have taken on kids in our community, promising futures that have crashed and burned. If I can go to work every day knowing I am making my family’s financial future secure and at the same time helping make our workplaces and community safer—who could ask for a better job?”
  Gretta Knows...... .... the meaning of true friends  
  March 6, 2014 Edition  
      Blessings to you my friends! I see the winter cold is still with you! Just think how much you will appreciate the warmer Spring temps that are coming! They are coming!!!! Everyone will delight in the beauty and sunshine, enjoying the outdoors, the renewed energy that will fill your spirits and bodies. As in life, after going through a difficult season, we seem to look at our surroundings in a whole new way, noticing the little things that we missed before, and realizing how special they can be.
      The fresh, new green grass that will soon begin to grow, yes it may even be a joy to start those lawn mowers, to be able to cut the grass, even taking a deep breath to smell the aroma, as we walk in the fresh warm spring air under the rays of the sun! The flowers will soon be showing off their new blooms and colors, what a beautiful and welcome sight that will be. Birds will begin to sing their songs as they feel the cold winter season departing. Get ready to sing your songs! Spring is coming! This cold season will pass, making way for a new season of God’s beauty, ready to unfold.
      It has been a joyous time here over the past weeks. A few of my heavenly pals Remington and Ruger, along with the felines Lucky and Squeeky and I, have been sharing our days with a Labrador named Dutch, who just recently crossed the Rainbow Bridge, entering our heavenly home.
      Yes, it is so exciting, a friend from our earthly home, ... and we have been spending the days catching up on our lost time, renewing the friendships we had to leave behind.
      The memories quickly returned of days passed, as we ran and played, barking and meowing among us, sharing stories of our earthly lives, expressing how much we missed the times together. We may have been separated for a time, but we seem to have picked up right where we left off. I believe that’s what true friends are. Friendship isn’t about who you have known the longest, it’s about who came and never left your side.
      How grateful we are for the friendships we shared on earth, and the reunions here in our heavenly home. Seeing Dutch again makes us all want to howl and remind everyone that true friendships are to be treasured. A friend is someone who knows your favorite biscuit and will let you have theirs. If you’re lonely, they’ll walk beside you. If you are sad, they’ll curl up next to you. If you need to be happy, they’ll run through the creek with you. And anytime you need a friend, just bark and they’ll be there.
      Oops, gotta go, we are heading down to the creek. These labs are water lovers, so we seem to end up playing in the creek quite often. But we are friends, and friends stick together..... our tails are a ‘waggin.
     
      Sometimes in life, you find a special friend. Someone who changes your life just by being part of it. Someone who makes you laugh until you can’t stop. Someone who makes you believe that there really is good in the world. Someone who convinces you that there really is an unlocked door just waiting for you to open it. This is forever friendship. When you’re down and the world seems dark and empty, your forever friend lifts you up in spirit and makes that dark and empty world suddenly seem bright and full. Your forever friend gets you through the hard times, the sad times an dthe confused times. If you turn and walk away, your forever friend follows. If you lose your way, your forever friend guides you and cheers you on. Your forever friend holds your hand and tells you that everything is going to be okay. And if you find such a friend, you feel happy and complete because you need not worry. You have a forever friend, and forever has no end. -- author unknown
     
      Gretta, a Golden Retriever, spent almost 15 years at
      The Boardman News. She greeted all who entered with a wag of her tail! She died in November of 2012.
      Send your animal tributes/stories to: The Boardman News, 8302 Southern Blvd., S2A, Boardman, OH 44512 or
      email to: gwen@boardmannews.net
  Restaurant Owner Among Four Who Face Charges In Spice Of India Fire  
  February 27, 2014 Edition  
      Four persons were arraigned on Tuesday in the Mahoning County Common Pleas Court of Judge R. Scott Krichbaum to face arson and insurance fraud charges related to the Oct. 8 blaze that leveled the Spice of India restaurant at 8398 Market St.
      The business closed down just days before the fire.
      Charged were Raj Ingle, 39, of 31 Carter Circle, #6; his niece, Sonya Bhatia, 24, also of 31 Carter Circle, #6; as well as Chris Reynolds, 20, of 4021 Frederick Dr., Liberty; and Jesse Winphrie, 22, of 408 Woodside, Youngstown.
      Ingle was apparently operating the restaurant at the time of the fire; although court records indicated he was involved in a dispute with Gundek Singh, of West Chester, Oh. over ownership of the business. Ingle also owns a home in Solon, Oh.; and is also the operator of Jewels and More in the Southern park Mall.
      All four were arrested last week by the U.S. Marshal’s Task Force, and thy spent last weekend in the county jail while awaiting their initial court appearance.
      Investigation of the fire determined an accelerant, likely gasoline, was ignited to start the blaze.
      Leading the investigation into the fire were Boardman police Det. Glenn Patton and Boardman Fire Prevention Officer Lt. James McCreary.
      Loss in the fire was estimated at $225,000.
      According to records obtained by The Boardman News, attempts were made to reach Ingle in the early morning hours when the fire was first reported.
      Those attempts ended when, according to police records, Ingle’s wife called Boardman police to advise that Raj had been drinking and authorities would have to call his niece.
      Additionally, the Spice of India property is owned by Nicholas Tzarnas, of 39 Indianola Rd. He had the building razed following the fire.
  Family Battles ALS  
  Community Will Rally Apr. 6 To Support Christine Terlesky:   February 27, 2014 Edition  
     A year ago, Christine Terlesky went to school everyday as a teacher at Boardman High School. She also served the system as a middle school basketball coach and was head coach of the varsity girls golf team; in addition to her duties as a mother of three, small children.
      Christine is a graduate of Boardman High School where she starred on the hardwoods for the Lady Spartans under the direction of her dad and head coach, Ron Moschella, who guided Boardman hoop fortunes for three decades. Christine went on to play for Youngstown State University under Head Coach Ed DiGregorio.
      After graduating from YSU, she began her teaching career in 1997 with the Boardman Local Schools. In addition to her teaching duties, she then began her coaching career, first serving as an assistant basketball coach and an assistant track coach. And at the same time, she began working on her masters degree, earning that in 1999 from Westminster College.
      Last season, Christine served as eighth grade Center Middle hoop coach, as well as varsity golf coach.
      “Those kids, teaching and coaching, and her family, really have kept her going,” her dad said this week.
      Christine and her husband, Brian, learned last year that life was going to be different for the couple. Christine was diagnosed with ALS, or Lou Gehrig’s Disease. The progressive disease attacks nerves and muscles. It has affected Christine to date, as she now uses a cane to help her walk.
      For a family who has given to Boardman in many different ways, for many years, the Boardman community and her fellow teachers in the Boardman Local Schools are giving to Christine and her family.
      On Sun., Apr. 6, from noon to 6:00 p.m., a Chip In For Chris spaghetti dinner will be held at the Boardman High School cafeteria.
      Helping to organize the event is Brad Calhoun, a Boardman Township Trustee and also a teacher at Center Middle School.
      “Christine and her family will be challenged by various obstacles over the weeks to come. Our goal is to help defray current and future medical costs as she may participate in clinical trials outside of the United States,” Calhoun said this week.
      “Such clinical trials have demonstrated success with individuals with a similar diagnosis. We seek to bring the same success to Christine,” Calhoun added, noting upwards of 2000 tickets will be sold for the dinner.
      “We hope to bring everyone together as a community to help and cheer on Christine and her family and they begin this journey,” Calhoun said.
      “We have hope,” Christine’s father said this week, noting an issue with Lou Gehrig’s Disease is “we just don’t know how fast it can progress.
      “Christine has a great attitude, but we may have to go overseas to try and get help.”
      ‘Coach Mosh’ said since being diagnosed, Christine has visited John Hopkins and medical facility in Michigan, with planned visits to specialists in Arizona and Massachusetts.
      There are also renowned experts outside of the United States, particularly Israel and Italy.
      But Coach Mosh, usually a man with many words, didn’t really know what to say as his family faces its current challenge.
      “We’re going to do our best to fight this,” Moschella said.
      Tickets for the fund-raiser on Apr. 6 are just $7 each and can be obtained by calling Saunni Russo, 330-501-7576, or Debbie Mook, 330-507-7177; or at the offices of The Boardman News, 8302 Southern Blvd. (330-758-6397).
      Donations can also be made by sending checks payable to Chip In For Chris, 422 Jaronte Dr., Boardman, Oh., 44512.
  $75,000 Blaze On Yellow Creek Ruled An Arson  
  February 20, 2014 Edition  
     A fire that was discovered about 7:40 a.m. on Feb. 6 at 7376 Yellow Creek Dr. was the result of arson, Fire Chief George Brown told Township Trustees in remarks last week at their regular bi-monthly meeting.
      The blaze caused an estimated $75,000 damage to the single family home that was vacant and in foreclosure.
      The residence had been the home of Antoniano DelSignore, 35, an exercise physiologist, and his wife, Jill, 36. They were involved in a divorce hearing in Aug., 2013. Court records list Antoniano’s address at 10693 Rapp Rd., New Middletown; and show Jill resides on Hamilton Ave., Poland.
      According to a police report filed Feb. 6 by Ptl. Michael Salser, the fire was first discovered by a neighbor, Anthony DiBenedotto.
      Poland police and fire units first arrived at the fire and reported a rear door to the home had been forced open.
      When emergency units arrived, “fire was observed coming from the rear of the house and in the basement,” a report authorized by Boardman Assistant Fire Chief Don Kloes said, concluding “the fire originated in the basement and the cause was intentional.”
      Officer Salser also reported that footprints were located in the snow, leading from the rear door of the home on fire, through a back yard, and to the driveway next door.
      14 Boardman firemen answered the call on the fire near 7:45 a.m. Last BFD unit cleared the scene at 1:25 p.m.
      According to Mahoning County Court records, the home at 7376 Yellow Creek Dr. is the subject of a foreclosure action filed by Wells Fargo Bank, that claimed an unpaid note of $142,013.62. The home was purchased in Sept., 2010. Foreclosure had been filed in Dec., 2013 and the home was to be offered at a foreclosure sale on Mar. 4, 2014.
      Antoniano and Jill DelSignore are the subjects of a divorce action filed in July, 2013; and its docket, to date, contains 74 entries. That case is still open, court records show.
     
  Y&S Rail Line Sold For $3 Million To Firm Involved In Shale Industry Boom  
  February 20, 2014 Edition  
     The Youngstown and Southern Railroad, a 36-mile short-line railway that runs through Boardman to Darlington, Pa., has been sold for $3 million by the Columbiana County Port Authority to a subsidiary of MarkWest Energy Partners, a major player in the Marcellas and Utica shale boom in Mahoning and Columbiana Counties.
      The deal was announced last week by Tracy Drake, director of the port authority.
      The long-troubled railway is unsafe enough to require cars traveling along it to move at no more than 10-miles-per-hour.
      About 15 years ago, the rail line was purchased by Railroad Ventures of Boardman for some $750,000. Railroad Ventures headed by the owner of the Shops at Boardman Park, Dave Handel, tried to abandon the line and joined with Boardman Township and Boardman Park in efforts to create a bikeway.
      However, Drake and the Ohio Rail Development Commission opposed abandoning the line and forced the sale of it to the port authority for some $1.1 million ten years ago.
      Prior to the current sale, the port authority had to pay more than $6000 in back taxes that had accrued.
  Heroin Use Suspected In Deaths Of Man, Woman  
  February 20, 2014 Edition  
     Boardman police are investigating two, apparent drug-related deaths, those of Daniel Joseph Niehorster, 26, of 4641 South Ave., on Tues., Feb. 11; and Gina Marie Pascarella, 31, of 31 Loch Heath Lane, on Thurs., Feb. 14. Both deaths are heroin-related, Police Chief Jack Nichols indicated this week.
      Niehorster was found dead in his bedroom by his step-father, William Moczan.
      Moczan told police about 1:45 p.m. that he knocked on Niehorster’s bedroom door and when he received no answer, he opened the door and found Niehorster “lying half on his bed and half on the floor.
      “He walked over and nudged Niehorster to wake him and discovered he was cold to the touch and unresponsive,” Officer Patrick Klingensmith said.
      The policeman said there appeared to be a fresh injection wound on the top of Niehorster’s left hand.
      Investigator’s found a white, powdery substance on a dresser drawer that field-tested positive for heroin, Officer Klingensmith said.
      Also on the scene, Mahoning County Coroner’s Investigator Theresa Valek, who found a burnt spoon and a hypodermic needle in the dresser, Officer Klingensmith said.
      Near 10:00 p.m. on Feb. 14, the Boardman Fire Department was sent to 31 Loch Heath Lane on a call of a “barely conscious female.”
      Pascarella’s step-mother, Dolly Pascarella, told firemen that her step-daughter had complained of shortness of breath and had been restless all day long, prompting her to call the fire department.
      Firemen and ambulance crews made efforts to stabilize Pascarella and she was taken to St. Elizabeth Hospital in Boardman where she was pronounced dead 90 minutes later.
      A report filed by Officer Michael Longo of the Boardman Police Department indicated the victim’s step-mother had told a representative of a organ procurement service that Gina had been using heroin the day she died.
  Gretta Knows....So Hard To Say Goodbye  
  February 20, 2014 Edition  
     Good day my friends! I see winter is still with you! Wish I could send warming rays of sunshine your way, but they will come, spring will arrive! Freshly fallen snow is so beautiful! One of God’s masterpieces! Right now many of you are simply tired of it all, but as everything in life, this too shall pass! Take a walk, listen to the quiet, notice a wonderland all it’s own! I can still remember running through freshly fallen snow next to my master, enjoying the moment of playing and being together. Snowfalls can give us a much needed break from the rushing world around us! The kids are home, go ride a sled, make a snowman, make a snow angel, look up at the sky, ahhh time to play and notice the blessings and beauty surrounding you!
      I am waiting here at the top of the hill under the great oak tree, who’s branches reach up to the crisp blue sky and bright sunshine, for a gathering of my heavenly pals! Glancing around I feel the peace that surrounds me. The creek is rustling over the rocks, creating a symphony of soothing sounds. The meadow grass is swaying slowly in the lightly blowing warm wind, filling me with a peace and joy of this heavenly place.
      Herer they come, Remington and Ruger are running towards me followed by the felines, Lucky and Squeeky. Up the hill from the creek comes Rasta, Kachina, BB, and Ty. Heavenly pals from all over are gathering. We have been called to meet at the Rainbow Bridge, for one of our earthly brothers is arriving, and we all want to be there. We have all taken that walk across the bridge and understand the feelings of sadness and loss as one arrives, and how much it means to see all of us there.
      I tell Remington and Ruger that Sady the Rainbow Bridge guard dog told me that our new arrival is a labrador named Dutch from our earthly home. They are so excited, a dog pal from home.
      We hurry, running down over the hill, through the meadow and reach the bridge. We all lie down and quietly wait for his arrival. All of a sudden we see Sady walk over the bridge and meet up with Dutch. Together they start their walk back across the bridge towards all of us. Dutch slowly takes a few steps, then decides to turn around. He told Sady how his heart aches at the thought of leaving his wonderful masters and the home they gave to him, caring for him with all the love they could give, that he wanted to send these words their way:
      Don’t grieve too long, for now I’m free.
      I’ve followed the path God has set for me.
      I ran to Him when I heard His Call.
      I swished my tail and left it all.
      I could not stay another day,
      To bark, to love, to romp or play.
      Games left unplanned must stay that way.
      I found such peace, it made my day.
      My parting has left you with a void.
      Please fill it with remembered joy,
      A friendship shared, your laugh, a kiss.
      Oh yes, these things I too shall miss.
      Be not burdened with times of sorrow.
      I wish you the sunshine of tomorrow.
      My life has been full, you’ve given so much,
      Your time, your love and gentle touch.
      Perhaps my time seemed all too brief.
      Don’t lengthen it now with undue grief.
      Lift up your head and share with me,
      God wanted me, He set me free!
      Dutch then turns around and lifts his head and looks at all of us waiting at the end of the Rainbow Bridge. All of a sudden he notices Remington and Ruger and he runs across the bridge to meet them. It brought a tear to my eye as they jumped nudging each other and barked with joy in seeing each other again. Turning they ran up the hill through the meadow grass. Gazing at the beauty before us, our tails were a waggin’. We looked over, Dutch’s tail was a waggin’ too!
      Welcome home Dutch!
  Trustees Approve $75,000 For County Prosecutor’s Service As Law Director  
  February 13, 2014 Edition  
     Meeting on Monday night, Boardman Trustees agreed to pay some $75,00 in legal fees to the Mahoning County Prosecutor’s Office.
      The fees provide funds for the prosecutor’s office to serve as the township’s law director for 2014.
      The measure to pay the fees had been on the trustees’ agenda on three occasions. It was not acted upon the first two times the legal fees were on the agenda, because trustees indicated they had issues they had taken-up with the prosecutor’s office that had not been acted upon, including the results of an investigation into the Boardman Fire Department that indicated public monies had been misused.
      In approving the legal fees on Monday night, Trustees indicated a resolution of the issues stemming from the fire department may finally be acted upon by the prosecutor’s office.
      The issue has lingered, without action, for more than a year, following an investigation by the Boardman Police Department and Ohio Bureau of Criminal Identification and Investigation. At one point, several sources have claimed, the prosecutor’s office balked at moving forward on the matter, suggesting the only reason Trustees were interested in the misused funds was as a payback for firemen raising their middle finger at a float that contained Boardman Township officials, as it passed by the main fire station during a Memorial Day parade.
      No public comment was made on Monday night on the potential legal issues at the fire department, said to involve one retired firemen, and two currently on duty.
      Trustees held ceremonies on Monday night, recognizing the promotion of Brian Barber to the post of assistant chief in the fire department; and Rob John as captain in the fire department.
      Barber has served at the fire department since June, 1996; while John began his career in Feb., 1999.
      Also recognized was Assistant Chief Tim Drummond, who has retired. Drummond served the Boardman Fire Department for 29 years. His first day on the job included a call to a fireworks factory on Western Reserve Rd. in North Lima, where nine people died as the results of an explosion.
      Drummond made brief remarks, thanking taxpayers for “stepping up to the plate” in their support of local government; and also thank the leadership of the township.
      “They really watch their dollars,” Drummond said.
      Road Superintendent Larry Wilson said salt supplies for winter snow removal were increased last week, when the township acquired 125 tons of salt from the Ohio Department of Transportation.
      Township Fiscal Officer William Leicht noted budget hearings for the police, fire, road and zoning departments are now underway.
  Federal, State Officials Search Judge’s Office  
  Evidence Sought In Criminal Offenses:   February 13, 2014 Edition  
     According to logs at the Boardman Police Department, agents of the Ohio Bureau of Criminal Identification and Investigation and the FBI were at the home of Mahoning County Probate Judge, Mark Belinky, 61, at 4032 Windsor Rd. last Friday, Feb. 7.
      A search warrant approved by Youngstown Municipal Court Judge Elizabeth Kolby indicates Judge Belinky’s offices at the Mahoning County Court House were searched.
      According to the search warrant, law enforcement officials were seeking items as evidence in criminal offenses, including engaging in a pattern of corrupt activity, tampering with records, money laundering, theft and theft in office.
      In signing the search warrant, Judge Kolby said affidavits submitted by BCI Supervisor James Ciotti established “there is sufficient reason to believe evidence of criminal activity” was located at the Probate Court.
      According to a log of the search warrant, some 23 items were seized in the search of the Probate Court.
      Agent Ciotti said those items included:
      •A folder containing campaign records.
      •A Dell desktop computer.
      •A paper that contained user names and passwords.
      •A promissory note with wages and garnishment.
      •Photo-copied campaign checks from 2004.
      •An Ohio campaign finance report “Committee for Our Future.”
      •Bank statements, miscellaneous financial records.
      •Information on campaign signs.
      •2008 general election campaign reports.
      •Miscellaneous campaign documents.
      •Venerose property information/IRS tax information.
      •2014 campaign petitions and filing documents.
      •Oak Hill notes, list of employees, miscellaneous notes.
      •File folder containing campaign events and sign information.
      •2007 amended W-4, Huntington bank information, 2007 financial disclosure, 2008 financial disclosure.
      •Folder containing names, addresses, phone numbers for sign locations.
      •Personal financial statements.
      •Cortland Bank book, finance reports.
      •Handwritten financial notes.
      •Campaign cards.
      •Returned campaign post cards, 2008 date book.
      •2008 campaign election events.
      Judge Belinky first took office in Nov. 2007, by appointment of then Ohio Gov. Ted Strickland.
      He had filed petitions for re-election with the Mahoning County Board of Elections. Also filing in the Democrat Party camp are Susan Maruca and Charles Sammarone.
      Last fall, Maruca took issue with Belinky, citing unpaid taxes, a $20,000 loan and some 205 parking tickets issued to Belinky in the city of Youngstown.
      Last October, Belinky had his wages garnished to pay a $20,000 loan he obtained in Oct., 2008, from a Naples, Fla. man.
      Judge Belinky easily won the 2008 Democratic primary over Judge James Lanzo of Struthers Municipal Court and defeated Judge Scott Hunter of Mahoning County Area Court in the 2008 general election for a six-year term.
      Judge Belinky has retained Atty. J. Gerald Ingram.
  Hagan, Ditzler Lead Effort To Support Re-Election Of County Dem Chair Betras  
  February 6, 2014 Edition  
     Well before the Mahoning County Democratic Party holds its annual reorganization meeting in either May or June; and more than a month
      before the party’s endorsement meeting that
      will be held Feb. 22 at St. Luke Church in
      Boardman, a wide range of Mahoning County public officials have endorsed current Party Chair, David Betras, of 1491 Barbie Dr.,
      for re-election.
      Congressman Tim Ryan, State Rep. Bob Hagan, Mahoning County Commissioner Dave Ditzler, Youngstown Mayor John McNally, Youngstown Clerk of Courts Sarah Brown Clark, and other Democratic elected officials have sent an open letter to members of the Mahoning County Democratic Party Central and Executive Committees asking that they join them in voting for David Betras’ reelection as Chair of the local Dem party.
      State Rep. Bob Hagan and Mahoning County Commissioner, David Ditzler, have organized an endorsement of Mahoning County Democratic Party Chair David Betras effort because, “David has, by any measure, served with distinction since first being elected chair in 2009 and therefore deserves our unwavering and enthusiastic backing, and...because we believe his skill, knowledge, commitment and energy are indispensable assets that will help Democratic candidates at all levels of government achieve victory in 2014 and beyond.”
      “We all appreciate the hard work David has done to revitalize and strengthen the [Dem]party,” Rep. Hagan said. “We also recognize that we need him at the helm as we face critical elections in 2014 and 2016. That’s why we’re prepared to work hard for his re-election as chair.”
      The complete text of the letter follows:
      An open letter to the members of the
      Mahoning County Democratic Party
      Central and Executive Committees
      We hope this letter finds you well and that you and the members of your family had a joyous and peaceful holiday season.
      We are writing to you to announce our support for Mahoning County Democratic Party Chair David Betras and to ask you to join us in voting for his reelection later this year. We’re taking the unprecedented step of issuing this joint endorsement for two reasons:
      First, because David has, by any measure, served with distinction since first being elected chair in 2009 and therefore deserves our unwavering and enthusiastic backing, and, second because we believe his skill, knowledge, commitment and energy are indispensable assets that will help Democratic candidates at all levels of government achieve victory in 2014 and beyond.
      We want to make it clear that our confidence in and support for David isn’t based on personal loyalty or friendship. It is based solely on our respect and appreciation for all he has achieved during his tenure as our chair. His decision to re-institute primary endorsements via an open, fair, and impartial process has revitalized and reinvigorated the MCDP. His successful fundraising efforts have ensured that our party and its candidates have the financial resources needed to win difficult elections. His belief in and dedication to grassroots activism have resulted in increased voter participation and larger Democratic pluralities. And his willingness to take on difficult and controversial issues, including the fight to protect worker and human rights, has made our party more relevant and influential than ever before.
      His leadership has been acknowledged by the White House, the Democratic National Committee, whose leader, congress person Debbie Wasserman Schultz refers to David as the “best county chair in the country,” and the [state dem party) that named him Large County Chair of the Year in both 2010 and 2012 and Ohio Democrat of the Year in 2011.
      Just as importantly, each of us knows that we can count on David to do the right thing for our Party and our community. Yes, some of us have had very public disagreements with him over the years, but at the end of the day we recognize that although he is sometimes brash, he is forthright, honest, and acts with the utmost integrity. As officeholders and citizens we cannot ask for more.
      For all the reasons we have stated and because we believe he will be best able to guide the MCDP in the coming years, we ask you to join us in supporting David’s re-election as our chair.
      Sincerely---Cong. Tim Ryan, State Sen. Joe Schiavoni: State Rep. Ron Gerberry; State Rep. Bob Hagan, Mahoning County Commissioners David Ditzler, Anthony Traficanti and Carol Rimedio-Righetti; Prosecutor Paul Gains, County Engineer Patrick Ginnetti, Sheriff Jerry Greene, County Coroner Dr. David Kennedy, Country Recorder, Nora Lynn Palermo, County Auditor Michael Sciotino, County Treasurer Dan Yemma, Youngstown Mayor John McNally, Sarah Brown Clark, Youngstown Clerk of Courts, Jamael Tito Brown, former president of Youngstown City Council; and Joyce Kale Pesta, 3rd central committee person.
  Ohio Senate Minority Leader Schiavoni Will Seek Re-Election  
  February 6, 2014 Edition  
     Ohio Senate Minority Leader Joe Schiavoni (D-Boardman) has filed for re-election for in the 33rd District:
      “Since starting in the Senate over five years ago, it has been an honor and a privilege to represent the Mahoning Valley everyday as a state senator. I have worked hard to be accessible to those who have needed assistance, and reasonable when addressing issues in Columbus in order to provide my constituents with the best representation possible.
      “While I believe progress has been made in creating jobs, improving education, and restoring neighborhoods throughout my district, there still is a lot of work to be done. That is why I am asking for voters to instill their trust in me for another term.”
      The 33rd District encompasses all of Mahoning and Columbiana counties. Schiavoni was initially appointed to a vacant seat in the Ohio Senate in 2008, and was elected to a full four-year term for his seat in 2010.
     
  Trustees Take Their Show On The Road  
  January 30, 2014 Edition  
     Boardman Trustees met Mon., Jan. 27 at Trinity Fellowship Church, 4749 South Ave., the first of seven of meetings they will hold during the first six months of the year outside of the Government Center.
      “Three years ago we took our regular Board of Trustee meetings to locations throughout the township in an effort to gain citizen input. We will be doing that again this year,” Chairman of the Trustees, Thomas Costello said.
      Trustees meet the second and fourth Mondays of every month at 5:30 p.m.
      They will meet Mon., Feb. 10 at the Government Center, and then hold their next three meetings at different locations in Boardman.
      On Mon., Feb. 24, the board will meet at the Boardman Library, 7680 Glenwood Ave.
      On Mon., Mar. 10, the board will meet at the Mahoning County Board of Developmental Disabilities, 160 Marwood Circle; and on Mon., Mar. 24, the board will meet at the Heritage Presbyterian Church, 1951 Mathews Rd.
      Other meetings currently scheduled away from the Government Center will be Mon., Apr. 28 at Good Hope Lutheran Church, 98 Homestead Dr.; On Mon., May 27 at St. Charles Church, 7345 Westview Dr.; and on Mon., June 23, at Calvary Baptist Church, 1463 Shields Rd.
      “We received a lot of input from the public when we held are meetings throughout the township three years ago, and are hopeful we will receive similar input this year,” Costello said.
      At their meeting on Monday at Trinity, Trustees approved the purchase of a video recording system and a tactical robot for the police department.
      The mobile surveillance system was purchased for $9605 from a California firm.
      “Our current system is over eight years old and has been malfunctioning. The system is used in drug investigations, certain crime complaints and any other time a remote surveillance system is needed,” Police Chief Jack Nichols said.
      The tactical robot was purchased from a North Carolina firm at a cost of $5902.
      “The device is called a robot, but it is actually a camera system that will be used in tactical situations,” Chief Nichols said, adding the device “can be ‘thrown’ into a house where an armed person is, and can then be remotely controlled to provide live video.”
      Fiscal Officer Bill Leicht noted the purchases for the police department were funds by Law Enforcement Trust Funds.
      “These are funds that have been seized from drug dealers and other criminals, and in this instance, it is a case where crime does pay,” Leicht noted.
  Role As Back-Up Center Lands Vallos In Super Bowl  
  January 30, 2014 Edition  
     Boardman native Steve Vallos went from a stellar career in high school as a lineman for the Boardman Spartans football team as well as a highly-touted wrestler to Wake Forest University where he started every game (48) for all four years as a member of the Demon Deacons offensive line.
      In 2006, Vallos led Wake Forest to the Atlantic Coast Conference title and a berth in the Orange Bowl while gaining first team All-ACC and All-American honors.
      He was drafted in the seventh round in 2007 by the Seattle Seahawks and began a six-year odyssey in the National Football League that also landed him with four other teams.
      In the pre-season, the Broncos had a need for a back-up center, and Vallos won a spot on the team.
      Now he’s going to a Super Bowl a reserve offensive lineman and special teams performer who has been active for all but one of Denver’s 18 games this season.
      “I know that lots of Boardman Pride will be out there with him on Super Bowl Sunday,” his mom, Sue, said this week before departing for the big game.
      Only one, other former Spartan gridder has reached the Super Bowl, and that was Bernie Kosar, in his role as a back-up quarterback for the Dallas Cowboys at Super Bowl XXVIII.
      This pre-season, Broncos starting center Dan Koppen went down with a torn ACL, and Denver quickly realized that they needed a center with experience.
      That’s why they agreed to terms with Vallos.
      The six-year veteran has played in 44 regular season NFL games (9 starts). He was drafted by the Seahawks in 2007 and played three seasons there, with his first season being on the practice squad. He went on to play for the Browns for two years and followed that up by playing for the Eagles and the Jaguars in 2012.
      The 6-3, 310-pound center has allowed only 1.25 sacks in his career and has been called for just two penalties.
      Should the Broncos win this year’s Super Bowl there will be a nice bonus each member of the winning team will receive, some $88,000. Members of the losing team each receive about $44,000.
     
  School Board Names Gorski To Replace Smercansky As High School Athletic Director  
  January 30, 2014 Edition  
     lly accepted the resignation of longtime Athletic Director Dave Smercansky during its January meeting, held on Monday night at Center Middle School. Smercansky stepped down, effective Dec. 31, 2013.
      Earlier this year, Smercansky took a leave of absence and was replaced in interim director, Denise Gorski.
      At its January meeting, the school board approved Gorski as athletic director, granting her a three year contract.
      Smercansky served the Boardman Local Schools as an Economics and Global Issues teacher, head baseball coach, and then athletic director. He served in the AD’s post since July, 2002.
      In seven seasons at the helm of Boardman baseball fortunes, his teams was four Steel Valley Conference titles (1989,1990,1992 and 1995), and in 1991 was state runner-up.
      Gorski retired as a teacher in the Boardman Local Schools last year, ending a 30-year career in the classroom. She continues as Boardman’s head girls track coach, where she is one of the most widely-respected prep track and field coaches in Ohio.
      During her tenure as track and field coach, her teams qualified athletes to the state meet 22 years, including a pair of Ohio champs in distance runner Laurie Gomez-Henes, and high-jumper Amber Bland.
      She is a recipient of the Ohio Association of Track and Cross Country Coaches Ed Barker Award, the highest honor that can be given by the association.
      In other personnel matters, the school board accepted the following resignations at its January meeting:
      Melissa Loew, Market St. second grade teacher; Fran Buckley, bus driver; Gina Cucitrone, West Blvd. Elementary School teacher aide; and Laura Pfahler, Crier (high school yearbook) business manager.
      A first-year leave of absence was granted to Mrs. Stacey Hunter, effective Jan. 27 through Mar. 28.
      Appointments approved by the board included: Audrey Allen, teacher aide at Boardman High School; Cort Beight, night custodian at Glenwood Middle School; Candace Greene, secretary at Center Middle School; Patricia Harris, school bus aide to accommodate students attending Pace Alternative School.
      Given off-staff supplemental contracts were Katelyn DeLadurantey and Joe Lamping, high school speech assistants.Approved as volunteer coaches for high school indoor track and field were Dayna Daltorio, Gorski, Stacey Hunter, John Phillips Jr., Whitney Resch, Richard Sypert, John Pallini and John Phillips Sr.
      The following stipends were awarded: Nicholas Opritza, for time spent working on the Choral Music Madrigal dinner, $100; Moris Jadue and Mary Beth Shobel, $67.50 each; and Wendy Crist, $30, for time spent working on the winter choral concert.
      Approved as on-line elective instructors for the second semester were Alyssa Birch and James Cliff, art appreciation; Shana Craig-Yardas, employability skills; and Ryan Stowell, music appreciation
      The on-line instructors will be paid at a rate of $50 per student, with a cap of 45 students.
  Phantoms Mascot Having A Blast  
  January 23, 2014 Edition  
Ryan Cmil as mascot Sparky
     ON THE ICE BETWEEN PERIODS at Phantoms hockey games at the Covelli Center in downtown Youngstown is mascot Sparky, pictured here participating in ice bowling. The event features Sparky sitting on an inner tube being shot onto the ice by a bungie cord, toward bowling pins. Sparky is actually 35-year-old Boardman native Ryan Cmil, who said he got a strike when the Phantoms faced the Muskegon Lumberjacks last Saturday, and also noted that Iceberg, the Pittsburgh Penguins mascot who attended the game, did not participate in ice bowling. Cmil is making somewhat of a second career out of being a mascot. He has also served as a mascot at arena football games for the Cleveland Gladiators and Mahoning valley Thunder, and when Youngstown State University gets in a pinch, he has taken on the roles of Pete and Penny Penguin. “For a second job, the pay is pretty good, and it is a blast. I love it,” Cmil said this week. He began his career as a mascot in 2007.
  Costello Leads Boardman Trustees  
  January 16, 2014 Edition  
     Tom Costello will serve as chairman of the Boardman Township Board of Trustees for 2014, while Brad Calhoun will serve as vice-chairman.
      Costello and Calhoun ran unopposed in the November general elections.
      Fiscal Officer William Leicht served as chairman of the board’s first meeting held at the Government Center on Monday night, until Costello was elected chairman.
      Trustee and fiscal officer compensation for 2014 was approved as set forth in the Ohio Revised Code, at $28,176 for the fiscal officer, and $20,568 for the trustees.
      They oversee an annual budget of more than $17 million, and a workforce of some 152 employees.
      Costello also serves on the executive committee of the Coalition of Large Ohio Urban Townships (CLOUT), and was also appointed on Monday night to serve as the township’s representative to the Mahoning County Emergency Management Agency 9-1-1 Planning Committee. Trustee Larry Moliterno will serve as an alternate on that board.
      Costello was ‘re-elected’ as a trustee on Nov. 3, 2009, as was Vice-Chairman Calhoun. Costello had previously served as a Boardman Township Trustee from Dec., 1999 through 2005.
      A proposal to pay the Mahoning County Prosecutor $75,000 in fees was tabled for a second time as the board indicated it still has “an outstanding issue” with the prosecutor’s office.
      The issue is believed to concern the findings of an investigation conducted by the Boardman Police Department and Ohio Bureau of Criminal Investigation into some shift-trading practices by three employees at the Boardman Fire Department upwards of eight years ago under Fire Chief James Dorman.
      The prosecutor’s office has not acted upon the findings of that investigation for more than 18 months.
      Police Chief Jack Nichols announced the department has re-established a Juvenile Diversion Program that was abandoned in eight years ago when Trustees cut the program claiming financial shortfalls.
      The program serves as an intervention program for juveniles, in many instances before they reach the court system.
      “We will be able to reach out to a lot of kids and maybe prevent them from getting into real trouble,” Moliterno said.
      Chief Nicholas also said his department will “expand into different areas, once it gets underway.”
      Heading the diversion program is
      In other matters, Trustees authorized their administrator, Jason Loree, to submit applications for Ohio Public Works Administration funds.
      Loree said the applications would seek funding for the township’s paving program.
      Trustees declared 203 Meadowbrook Ave., a nuisance and ordered the demolition of a residential structure on the site.
      Fire Chief George Brown announced the retirement of fire-fighter Tim Drummond, effective Feb. 4.
      In response to recent cold weather that included below-zero temperatures, Trustees heard from Chief Brown, who helped to spearhead efforts to establish a ‘warming center’ at the Government Center.
      Chief Brown said the local Red Cross donated 20 beds and blankets that were set-up in the Marie P. DeBartolo Meeting Room, and expressed concern there could have been a need to use the beds since 1200 people in the Tippecanoe Rd. area were reported without power on Jan. 7.
      “We were ready to do whatever was needed,” Brown said.
      The fire chief said his department received 18 calls for water line breaks during the cold temperatures, noting “Akron Children’s Hospital was the worst one.”
      Administrator Loree said a water line in the government center’s meeting room burst in three places, and there was also a water line break in the road department building.
      Following their public session, trustees adjourned into a closed meeting for purposes of collective bargaining with police and road department unions, appointments to the zoning commission and zoning board of appeals, and administration employment.
     
  Amstutz President Of Boardman School Board  
  January 16, 2014 Edition  
     The Boardman Board of Education held its annual reorganizational meeting on Sat., Feb. 8 at 9:00 p.m.
      Nik Amstutz was elected president of the school board, and Kim Poma will serve as vice-president.
      Receiving the oath of office as a new member of the board was Miss Vickie Davis, who unseated Mark Fulks in the November general elections.
      Amstutz first served on the school board from 2006 through 2009, and was re-elected in Nov., 2011.
      The five-member Boardman Local School Board oversees a near $50 million annual budget and some 600 employees.
      Also at the reorganizational meeting, the school bard approved resolutions signaling two renewal tax issues will be on the May 6 ballot.
      One issue, a three-year emergency levy was first approved by the electorate in Nov., 1984 and raises $1.468 million annually.
      The second issue, a five-year emergency levy, was originally approved by the electorate in Mar., 1979 and raises $1.999 million annually.
      During its reorganizational meeting, the school board also held a ‘workshop’ where a variety of matters were discussed, including negotiations with members of the teaching and non-certified staff that are expected to be held this year.
      Both employee groups have been working under wage-freeze contracts for the past six years, although in some instances a ‘bonus’ was handed out by the school board.
      Other topics for discussion during the workshop included updates of the drive to raise funds for a new Boardman Stadium on the grounds of the high school, a school bus garage update, a transportation director update, an Ohio School Facilities Commission update and ‘teacher/coach cell phone misuse.
      •Board members were told a drive for funds for a new Boardman Stadium has neared the $1.5 million mark in pledges and this summer a new artificial turf could be laid on the current soccer field site where the new stadium is proposed.
      •Board members were informed the St. Elizabeth Hospital has expressed an interest in purchasing the school bus garage property on McClurg Rd. The hospital has been buying up the land surrounding its current facility and had attempted to build a three-story parking garage on some of its adjacent property. That project may not get underway, as Boardman Trustees have heard concerns the health care complex is already clogging McClurg Rd., particularly during morning and after-business hours.
      •The post of transportation director will have to be filled at the end of the current year as longtime director Hugh Braham has submitted his resignation.
      •The Ohio School Facilities Commission would reportedly provide up to 16 per cent of the funding needed if a new Center Middle School was to be built.
      •A substitute teacher, no longer with the system, reportedly spent time talking on a cell phone, rather that providing instruction to students.
  Ugly. Addiction. Heroin. Death.  
  Jeffrey Gallagher, Angelo Martino Jr., Dennis Howells Jr., Erin Trell, Dan Watkins, Frank Davanzo:   January 9, 2014 Edition  
     It was January of 1971 and Boardman Police Chief Dan Maggianetti issued his annual report to township trustees.
      That report noted one small item, out of the more than 900 arrests police made that year, seven were for ‘narcotics-related offenses,’ all for marihuana.
      Chief Maggianetti felt those seven arrests were an indicator of future problems, so much so that during 1970, he gave more than 40 drug-related speeches to civic and school groups.
      Was anybody listening?
     
      2013 was not a good year for Boardman Township. Almost every week, the township’s Narcotics Enforcement Unit (NEU), headed by Det. Mike Hughes was out staging raids, centering on illegal heroin sales and other opiates.
      In some instances during those raids where heroin was found, small children were playing nearby.
      During one three-month stretch last summer, three young Boardman kids died from suspected heroin-related deaths.
      A 19-year-old girl, Erin Trell, became unconscious at a party on the north side of Youngstown and never woke up. A 20-year-old boy, Dan Watkins, was shot to death during a heroin deal gone bad on the south side of Youngstown.
      A 22-year-old man, Frank Davanzo, shot up heroin and was found dead in a wooded-area off Southern Blvd.
      Trell, Watkins and Davanzo were all recent graduates of Boardman High School. In death they became little more than a statistic, whose futures were wiped-out by their addiction.
      The recent deaths prompted the Boardman Local Schools to hold a special assembly in November for students under the banner of the first annual ‘Yes Fest.’
      Featured speakers at the assembly were the parents of two young men who died of heroin overdoses. They delivered powerful messages about drug addiction to students.
      “Our speakers will encourage you to continue to say no to drugs that surround us,” high school principal Jared Cardillo said in opening remarks, noting that the “drugs that surround us can have deadly consequences.”
      Angelo Martino, of West Glen Dr., lost his son, Angelo Jr., 34, on Aug. 1, 2012.
      “A little over a year ago, I placed my hand on my son’s back and tried to wake him. It was within seconds that I realized...that he was dead of a drug overdose.”
      “I don’t want you to feel sorry for me,” Mr. Martino told students at the assembly, “But, we need your help.”
      Mr. Martino said his son was involved in an auto accident and had been prescribed oxycontin.
      “He became addicted to opiates and when those weren’t available, heroin was,” Mr. Martino said.
      Boardman Police Chief Jack Nichols will tell anyone who will listen, opiates can be expensive. But heroin is cheap and plentiful (sells for less than a baggie of pot), despite on-going efforts of law enforcement.
      “I have come to realize that you [the young people in the audience], our future leaders, can help fulfill this father’s mission---That no parents learn their child has died of a drug overdose.”
      Angelo Martino Jr. was no stranger to drugs and heroin. Just three months before his own death, he had walked into his apartment at 134 Lemans Dr. to find 30-year-old Jeffrey Gallagher Jr., of Creed St. in Struthers, laying on a couch.
      Ptl. David Sheely described the scene---
      “Gallagher was blue in the face and unresponsive.”
      On May 30, 2012, Martino Jr. told police he left his apartment for just two hours and when he got back, he just couldn’t wake his fellow drug-addicted friend, Jeffrey Gallagher Jr.
      “Martino stated he threw ice water on Gallagher and he would not wake up.
      “Martino stated he then put ammonia on a rag and tried to get Gallagher to smell it to wake up.
      “But he still would not respond.
      “Martino stated that Gallagher stopped breathing and he saw white foam emitting from Gallagher’s nose and mouth,” Officer Sheely reported.
      It wasn’t as though Gallagher’s death could not be expected.
      At the time, Gallagher told Martino that he wanted to get high on heroin. He did, and never woke up.
      The death in his own apartment didn’t stop Martino Jr. from using heroin. It was on Aug. 1, 2012 that police were called to his father’s house just before 8:00 a.m.
      Ptl. Michael Mullins described Martino’s death scene---
      “The victim was found on a back porch...slumped forward onto his face...There appeared to be parts of a syringe protruding from under his shoulder.
      “Nearby the victim were items used to prepare narcotics for intravenous use---a lighter and a burnt spoon and toilet tissue...
      “The body was removed to the coroner’s office.”
      Angelo Martino Sr., the father who now has to live the rest of his life thinking about the cost of his son’s addiction, urged students at the Yes Fest to “help make a difference in someone’s life...take a leadership role, all you have to do is take a step forward and help make a difference in someone’s life.”
      Martino Sr. told students they could face “a choice to start experimenting with drugs is available...Absolutely nothing good can come of it.
      He said that watching some with an addiction “is like watching that person is walking dead...
      “Watching a loving young man with dreams for the future be controlled every waking minute and hour [by the desire for drugs] is as bad as death...
      “I beg each of you to be wise...learn from the mistakes of those who are no longer with us.”
      Angelo Martino Jr. was a friend of another drug addict by the name of Dennis Howells Jr., a 2001 graduate of Boardman High School. Less than a year after Martino’s death, Howells died the same way.
      On June 5, 2013, police were sent to 7473 Huntington Dr., where they found the 30-year-old Howells lying on his back, arms raised above his head, blood coming from his nostrils.
      His mom, Anna Howells was there too, as Ptl. Richard Romeo reported “We discovered [his mother, Anna] crying atop the victim’s body.”
      Ptl. Romeo said police found illegal narcotics and a burnt spoon on a night stand.
      Also inside the apartment when Anna Howells arrived to check on her son were two white males and a black female sleeping in the living room.
      They too were likely drug addicts, who apparently knew something was wrong with Dennis Howells but failed to act.
      When Anna Howells showed-up at her son’s residence, the scum bags there “left in a hurry,” Ptl. Romeo reported, noting one stated “Something’s wrong with Dennis.”
      Angelo Martino Jr. and Dennis Howells Jr. were friends. Shortly after Martino died of a drug overdose, his dad visited Dennis’s mom, urging her to get her son to stop using drugs, or else he could end up like Martino Jr.
      Like so many addicts, Howells didn’t hear the message---or perhaps his addiction was so powerful, it didn’t matter anyway.
      Anna Howells perhaps first learned of her son’s addiction eight years before his death.
      “In 2004, I found a needle and immediately got my son into a treatment program,” she said, noting her son went to many recovery programs.
      But, she indicated as her son struggled with his addiction for so long, “It wasn’t about getting high...It was about survival.” Her son no longer used to get high, he used “just to feel normal.”
      Anna Howells said her son’s addiction took not only his life, but exacted a heavy toll on his family and everyone he knew.
      “The addiction drove him to lie and steal. His criminal behavior was a requirement to pay for his daily habit.
      “He lost the respect of everyone closest to him...Court dates made him feel hopeless that he would ever be able to have a normal life...
      “All the dreams were taken from him by heroin...It has no mercy for no one.
      “Addiction is cruel and heartless. It will strip everything that life has to offer,” Howells said.
      She said her son’s addiction began in nigh school when so-called friends “enticed him into drinking and drugs.”
      “15 years of addiction were very hard, not only for Dennis, but for his family. The disease will swallow-up anyone involved in the addict’s life.
      “Addiction is relentless...as the heart-ache of broken promises, over and over again,” Howells said.
      “The day that I stared down at my son’s lifeless body, I remember thinking ‘this has happened to me.’ Now I am on a journey...[and]...I want to say to you, say yes to life,” Howell urged students.
      She concluded, “Remember, if you choose drugs, once you walk through that door and you realize what addiction is, you will turn around and try to walk back through that door...Not only will that door shut...that door will not exist anymore. There will be no turning back.”
     
      Last year, there was no turning back for Erin Trell, Dan Watkins and Frank Davanzo.
      They weren’t the only victims of the dredge of drug addiction.
      There was the woman who went to one of Boardman’s cheap motels, overdosed and died, and a man took her lifeless body, stuffed it into a car, drove into Youngstown and dumped the body on the side of a road.
      There were the many drug-related incidents where no one died, but got arrested at Boardman’s cheap motels for drug charges---all of them on the path to complete self-destruction.
      More than 70 per cent of all thefts in Boardman are now related to drug addiction.
      In 1969, Boardman Police Chief Dan Maggianetti reported two “narcotics-related” offenses in Boardman, both for marihuana use.
      When that total tripled in one year, to seven “narcotics-related” offense (marihuana) in 1970, Chief Maggianetti saw a problem, and spent a day every week speaking to groups about drug and addiction.
      Little more than four decades later, statistics show there were at least 500 drug-related incidents to which the Boardman Police Department responded, and the Narcotic Enforcement Unit staged raids almost weekly, arresting 60 persons for drug charges.
  Gretta Knows ...... ..... Time Heals The Hurting Heart  
  January 9, 2014 Edition  
Gretta, a Golden Retriever, spent almost 15 years at The Boardman News. She greeted all who entered with a wag of her tail! She
     Happy New Year! I hope you all had a blessed Holiday, seeing family, old friends and enjoying the moments of the season! We had a wonderful birthday party for Jesus, and enjoyed lying here in the warm sunshine, talking about our memories of Holidays in our earthly homes. We also watched as you went to church to celebrate the reason for the season, and then saw you celebrating with friends and family, giving gifts to those you hold close in your hearts! It is a beautiful time of the year! I so wish all of us could hold the magic of Christmas all the year through!
      Sady the guard dog of the Rainbow Bridge has asked that we come to meet a new arrival. Along the way I notice a black and white Springer Spaniel and stop to say hello. He says his name is Stagger. I asked him if he would like to come along as I am on my way to the Rainbow Bridge to welcome a dog or cat to their new heavenly home. As we walked, Stagger explained that he crossed the Bridge in 2010 and he how sad he felt to leave his earthly master and home and how much it meant to be greeted upon his arrival, as he crossed the Bridge.
      As we approached the Bridge, some of my heavenly dog pals Rasta, Kachina, Reuger, Remington, BB, Ty, along with my feline friends Lucky and Squeeky, were anxiously awaiting to comfort and introduce the new arrival to this beautiful new home. We all know how hard it is for a dog or cat to arrive in their new heavenly home and we want to be there, offering our friendships and love, for we know what it meant to each of us to know we were not alone.
      We notice Sady walking across the bridge with a German Shepherd! I can’t believe it! It is Lonesome. His master was Howard from the Boardman News. I was so excited I ran halfway across the Bridge to see him! I remeber how Howard rescued him, taking him in and loving him. Oh what a beautiful couple of years Lonesome had with Howard. I know how difficult this must be for them both, having to leave each other. Lonesome was always kind of shy around other dogs, but when he saw me, he lifted his head and his tail wagged.
      I asked him how my masters and Howard were doing! Lonesome said, “They are all doing fine, they and your friends, still talk about you and the wonderful memories they will always hold dear.” I said, “Howard was always so loving and kind to me, always sneeking me biscuits, taking me for walks, he always had the time for me.” Lonesome remarked, “I agree, Howard gave me the most beautiful and loving life I could have ever asked for. During my last week with him, he walked with me through the woods for as long as I wished, even at 4 in the morning. I know he is hurting so deeply because I have left him.” Lonesome said, “I want him to know, I am feeling no pain and am engulfed in peace as I cross this Bridge. I have found my old friend Gretta and many new friends. I wish I could take the loneliness and pain away from him.”
      I told him, “Time heals the hurting heart and soon just the memories of your joyful times together will remain and bring comfort to him.”
      As we all head up the hill, Lonesome turns and glances at the Bridge, then looks forward, runs up to the top of the hill, overlooks the beauty ahead, feeling the incredible warmth and love surrounding him. He takes in a deep breath, shakes his head, shakes his body, gazes at his new world, and we all run down the hill, through the tall flowing grass. Suddenly stopping, ‘dog grins’ come over our faces, ........ tails are ‘awaggin.
  Hospital’s Gift To Township Will Improve Emergency Communication  
  December 19, 2013 Edition  
     Two representatives of St. Elizabeth Hospital Boardman, in the middle of a $103 million expansion project, formally presented Boardman Township with what was termed “close to” $100,000 worth of communication equipment, when Trustees held their final, regularly-scheduled meeting of the year at the Government Center.
       The gift included 45 portable radios that Fire Chief George Brown said will give township emergency crews 100 per cent coverage of the hospital.
       Chief Brown said there had been a “communication issue” with the hospital.
       Chief Brown said he hopes the communication system with the ever-expanding Boardman campus will be up and running by Jan. 15, 2014.
       Attending the meeting were Genie Aubel, president of St. Elizabeth Boardman Health Center; and Wayne Tennis, vice-president of support services.
       “We are happy to step forward and offer support,” Aubel said, adding “The safety of our equipment and responder’s is important to us.”
       The current expansion of the St. Elizabeth Boardman campus include construction of a second ‘patient tower’ that will span some 165,00 square-ft. and include four additional operating rooms “to accommodate additional admissions,” 72 medical surgical/telemetry beds, six intensive care beds, 12 labor and delivery beds, 32 postpartum beds and a 24-bed neonatal intensive care unit.
       Phase I of the expansion is expected to be completed by early 2014, and includes completion of the operating rooms, and nursery and neonatal care services.
       Phase II of the project won’t be completed until Jan., 2017, according to the health center.
       “Floors four through seven will be established as a mix of medical surgical and telementry and will be opened in a phased approach,” the hospital said.
     
  Nothing Like The Spirit Of Christmas  
  December 19, 2013 Edition  
     There is nothing like Christmas---a time of the year when we all stop, maybe just for one special day, to count our blessings, reflect on the past and peer into the future.
      I always think of my dogs, Kachina and Gretta---Everyone who visited The Boardman News during their lifetimes was greeted with the wag of the tail. And all they ever wanted, and received, was a simple, friendly greeting in return---that short, brief moment made everyone feel better---glad to be recognized in a short moment of friendship.
      What a nice place we all enjoy and call home.
      Our police protect us, despite a court system that too often protects the criminals.
      Our firemen have special skills, especially as emergency medical personnel that daily offer aid to our citizens and visitors.
      Our road department keeps our roads in shape.
      Our zoning office does its best to maintain the integrity of our neighborhoods.
      Our elected officials are honest, they serve our community to the best of their abilities.
      Our park, surrounded by homes and businesses, is a haven, where solitude and green space abound.
      Our public schools are clean, safe environments for children.
      As a community, we are not without problems---More roads could be repaired, more police could be hired, drug use is epidemic (heroin), the schools could be more aggressive in dealing with drug-related issues, and the politics of the Mahoning Valley are a continual source of wonderment.
      But there is nothing like this time of year, when peace and goodwill among all is shared, if only for a brief moment in time.
      Kachina and Gretta had that Christmas spirit all the time---a lesson for all of us. Like people, they were most happy with a simple gift---a kind greeting. That simple act made their tails wag, and our hearts glow.
      I wish it was Christmas all the time.
      JADjr
  G R E T T A  
  A Joyous Time Of The Year:   December 19, 2013 Edition  
     Everyone is busy getting ready for a birthday party here in doggy heaven! This is no ordinary birthday party, it is in celebration of Jesus’s birth. Down on earth you call it Christmas Eve and we see how you are preparing for the celebration too! Out buying gifts for the ones you love and for people who have touched your lives in some special way, getting the decorations and lights up, and baking cookies to share, in anticipation for the celebration that is to come. The kids are stirring, young and old alike, await with anticipation!
      It’s a giving time of the year, yes a joyous time of the year!
      Gift-giving is more difficult here, as we don’t have stores or computers. Since we cannot give material gifts, we have to give something from within ourselves. We give and receive gifts such as love, kindness, a helping paw, and friendship, which I have found are the grandest, for they always bring smiles, warm the heart and can last for a lifetime.
      I want to wish my masters and earthly friends a blessed Merry Christmas and in the New Year may you find and give peace, joy and love. Give from your hearts. I will always remember all the love, biscuits too, that you passed my way. My tail is a-waggin’....
      * * * * * * * * * *
      Everyone gets up and stretches, shakes and begins the journey to the birthday party.
      I suddenly hear Sady, the watchdog over the Rainbow Bridge, barking for us to come, as someone is a arriving and is ready to cross the bridge. I meet up with my heavenly dog pals Kachina, BB, Rasta, Remington, Ruger---and our feline friends Lucky and Squeeky, are on their way.
      We walk over the bridge to meet Sady and greet the newcomer, a dog named Rocky. He is a little hesitant, as most are when they arrive, but we bark and purr our welcomes. He walks across the bridge as we all fill him in on his wonderful new home---just in time to help us prepare for our Christmas celebration. Soon Rocky is running with us over the hill to see his beautiful new world.
      All our tails were ‘a-waggin’
      GSD
     
      Gretta was a Golden Retriever
      who greeted all who visited the
      Boardman News for 15 years with
      a wag of her tail.
      She died in Nov., 2012
     
  Apparent Dispute Over A Parking Space Leads To Stabbing, Arrest  
  December 5, 2013 Edition  
     A 51-year-old Youngstown man was jailed on charges of felonious assault and tampering with evidence following a stabbing in the parking lot of Wal-Mart, 1300 Doral Dr., last Sat., Nov. 30, about 5:30 p.m.
      Taken to St. Elizabeth Hospital in Youngstown and treated for a single stab wound to the left shoulder was 50-year-old Ernest Lee Thomas, of 30467 Salem-Alliance Rd., Salem, who told local police that he was retired from the Seminole County, Fla. Sheriff’s Office.
      According to police reports, Thomas was carrying a 40-calibre Glock handgun and a container of pepper spray at the time of the incident.
      Arrested as Darrell Peterman, of 129 Brookline Ave., Youngstown. He was jailed on a $20,000 bond.
      Both Thomas and Peterman said a confrontation began over a parking space. Peterman invoked the ‘race card’ in his statements to Boardman police, alleging that Thomas “began calling him a nigger.”
      Six police units responded to the call and learned from Thomas that he had pulled into a handcap parking space and upon observing another car parked “between” handcap spots, told his wife “I guess people can’t park legally anymore.”
      Thomas’s version of events laid claim that it was apparently Peterman’s car that was parked ‘in-between’ handicap spots and Thomas claimed that Peterman must have overheard his remarks to his wife.
      “The two began to argue,” Ptl. Joseph Olinger reported, noting that Thomas claimed that Peterman called him a “bitch and he would kick his ass.”
      Thomas claimed that Peterman ran at him in an “aggressive manner.”
      Thomas then said he sprayed Peterman with pepper spray, but that didn’t deter Peterman, who continued rushing at Thomas, striking him in the back and shoulder.
      When he realized he had been stabbed, Thomas said he drew his weapon and Peterman then ran into Wal-Mart.
      Thomas told police he holds a concealed carry permit.Peterman denied stabbing Thomas and claimed that Thomas had pulled a knife on him and that he had “rushed” Thomas to disarm the man.
      Checking surveillance tapes, Officers Shawn McClellan and Joe O’Grady found a knife in the layaway department of Wal-Mart.
      “The surveillance tapes showed Thomas discarding the knife, and also showed the two men arguing in the parking lot,” Officer Olinger reported.
      According to police, a video obtained from a cell phone showed Thomas standing next to Peterman’s car “while Peterman sat in the driver’s seat with the door open and one leg outside of the vehicle. Peterman exited the vehicle, ran at Thomas, and Thomas sprayed Peterman with pepper spray. Peterman then struck Thomas twice in the left shoulder and Thomas backed away. Thomas then ran towards the front of the store, with Peterman running after him. Thomas drew his Glock and pointed it at Peterman...Peterman could be observed holding a black knife in his right hand.”
      Officer Olinger said that Thomas was treated at the hospital for a one-inch stab wound to his left shoulder.
     
  Breakfast With Santa At Antone’s Banquet Center  
  Event Benefits Akron Children’s Hospital:   December 5, 2013 Edition  
     The Kids’ Crew of Akron Children’s Hospital Mahoning Valley is planning two holiday fundraising events to benefit Akron Children’s Hospital Mahoning Valley.
      Breakfast with Santa will be held Sat., Dec. 7 from 9:00 a.m. until 11:00 a.m. at Antone’s Banquet Centre, 8578 Market St.
      In addition to a breakfast buffet, the event will feature free photos with Old St. Nick, holiday craft and coloring stations, face painting, caroling, dancing, Princess story time, decorate a Dunkin Donut and decorate candy bar stations.
      Santa Claus will be welcomed by a parade of mascots and characters including the Aut Mori Grotto clowns, the Chick-fil-A Cow, Sir C.C. from the Cleveland Cavaliers, Captain McFinn and Coral Rose from the Eastwood Mall, Scrappy from the Mahoning Valley Scrappers, Sparky from the Youngstown Phantoms, Pete and Penny from Youngstown State University, Coop from Quaker Steak and Lube, Pete Za Hut from Pizza Hut, Pozzi from the Canton Charge and dancers from the Judy Conti Dance Studio. The entertainers will be available for photos and each child will receive a gift from Santa and a bag of goodies.
      Cost is $20 for adults and $10 for children (10 and under). Reservations are required and can be made by calling 330-746-9122.
      The Breakfast with Santa committee includes Betty Cmil and Debbie Shattuck, co-chairs, along with Kids Crew members Janna Coffin, Julie Costas, Roseann Cullen, Dennis Dively, Roxy Gurlea, Donna Hayat, Gayle Kelly, Jenny Kennedy, Beverly Marinelli, Loretta Uroseva and Pattie Welsh.
      The Kids Crew of Akron Children Hospital Mahoning Valley will also be hosting their fifth annual Holiday Hopes and Wishes luncheon on Fri., Dec. 13 at Mr. Anthony’s in Boardman. A social and shopping begins at 10 a.m. with luncheon served at 11:30 a.m. Cost is $35/person and advance reservations are required. Corporate sponsorship packages are also available. Reservations may be made by calling 330-746-9122. All proceeds benefit the Akron Children’s Hospital Mahoning Valley Special Care Nursery and NICU (Neonatal Intensive Care Unit).
      Holiday Hopes and Wishes luncheon will feature a basket raffle, silent auction, holiday bake shoppe and a special grand raffle for an Apple IPad 2, a Samsung 32-inch flat screen television or a Kindle Fire will also be held.
      Committee members for the luncheon include Donna Hayat and Kathy Dwinnells, co-chairs; Kym Baker, Diane Balog, Susan Berny, Kathy Brauer, Donna Chiarelli, Betty Cmil, Julie Costas, Georgia D’Andrea, Heather Davis, Kathy Gough, Roxy Gurlea, Paula Jakubek, Gayle Kelly, Beverly Marinelli, Margaret Nigro, Linda Lee Siegle, Katie Solvesky, Loretta Uroseva and Amanda Watanakunakorn.
      Corporate sponsors include; The DeBartolo Corporation and Merrill Lynch – The Jones Group.
      The Kids’ Crew of Akron Children’s Hospital Mahoning Valley is a committee of caring community volunteers interested in making a difference in the lives of children of the Mahoning Valley. The primary purpose of the Kids’ Crew is to provide assistance with hospital-sponsored special events and other fundraising activities.
      Membership in Kids’ Crew is open to all persons 18 years or older who are interested in Akron Children’s Hospital Mahoning Valley and the purpose of the Kids’ Crew. For more information, call 330-746-9122.
     
  DOGS FOUND IN BOARDMAN AREA  
  November 11, 2013 Edition  
     These two dogs were found in the Boardman area Nov. 7. They are good friends and take care of each other. Both are males. Notify The Boardman News for more information at 330-758-6397 or email gs125@zoominternet.net
  Costello, Calhoun Serve Public Well  
  October 31, 2013 Edition  
     Unopposed for re-election to the post of Boardman Township Trustee this November are incumbents Thomas Costello and Brad Calhoun. They were elected four years ago, soundly defeating Kathy Miller and Robyn Gallitto, under whose terms, the township fell into a state of disarray.
      To be certain, Mr. Costello and Mr. Calhoun have done a good job in cleaning up the mess.
      Mr. Costello and Mr. Calhoun began their terms four years ago holding their bi-monthly meetings around the township, including at several churches. They invited comments, including criticisms, in an all-out effort to acknowledge citizen input into the operation of township government.
      In sharp contrast to township meetings that were held prior to their election, the community meetings organized by Mr. Costello and Mr. Calhoun, working as a team with trustee Larry Moliterno and Fiscal Officer William Leicht, meetings were orderly, and in addition to the Pledge of Allegiance, several times they opened with a prayer delivered by the host church.
      Under this type of leadership, problems that festered unattended by the previous administration, were promptly addressed.
      Under Miller and Gallitto, police officers fled from the township, depleting the force by almost one-third of its personnel, including special services provided to juveniles.
      Mr. Costello and Mr. Calhoun have served as catalysts to boost police department manpower back to more acceptable levels, most recently re-establishing a Juvenile Diversion Office.
      “We want to try and make sure we make this community a better place, and it’s in better shape when we leave office,” Mr. Costello would frequently observe.
      Over the last four years, a bevy of issues of been addressed.
      •A professional, well-credentialed fire chief, George Brown, replaced Chief James Dorman, and in just a short period of time, abuse of overtime that had been rampant at the Boardman Fire Department, was greatly reduced.
      •Drainage projects, that had been put on hold for years, have been completed.
      •Property maintenance issues have been addressed, blighted buildings have been torn down, and there is currently an all-encompassing re-zoning effort underway designed to protect the integrity of residential neighborhoods. This has been accomplished under the leadership of a well-qualified, new zoning inspector, Sarah Gartland, assisted by Marilyn Kenner, who has brought three decades of experience with the Mahoning County Engineer’s Office, to the Boardman Zoning Department.
      •The public may not be aware, but for several months, Trustees have been engaged in an all-out effort to prevent a very graphic pornography shop from opening here.
      •Working with union negotiators, wages in the township have been frozen for several years.
      •A holiday lighting display has made the BoardmanTownship Administration Building a bright place during the month of December. It used to linger in darkness. Now it provides a boost to the overall community spirit.
      With an increased visibility throughout Boardman Township, support for the Board of Trustees was reflected in the passage of an additional tax levy two years ago by an overwhelming majority, at a time when many, neighboring communities, and towns throughout Ohio were lingering in fiscal uncertainty.
      Mr. Costello and Mr. Calhoun, working together, have restored township government. Their concerns for the betterment of the community they lead is reflected by their lengthy record of accomplishments, in the best interests of the future of Boardman Township.
  Dr. James Chengelis Was Major Benefactor Of The Boardman Local Schools  
  October 10, 2013 Edition  
     A major benefactor of the Boardman Local School System, as well as Boardman Park, Dr. James Chengelis, 58, died on Wed., Oct. 2, of a heart attack.
      Dr. Chengelis, a 1973 graduate of Boardman High School, moved on to practice psychiatry in Boston for more than 25 years, before relocating back to his hometown this summer.
      While he lived and practiced in Massachusetts, Dr. Chengelis never forgot his hometown. He was a frequent contributor to his elementary school, Stadium Drive Elementary School.
      Dr. Chengelis gifted his former elementary school in many ways.
      He was the major contributor to the construction of a new library at the school, named in honor of his parents, Evelyn and Theodore. He provided another, sizeable donation to help create a science lab at the school. And, every September since the tragedy of Sept. 11, 2001 when terrorist attacks hit New York City and Washington, D.C., Dr. Chengelis donated some 500 miniature American flags used by students to commemorate the attacks.
      At Boardman Park, he donated three, very large and unique maple trees that were planted in memory of his parents, as well as a sister, Patricia F. Chengelis.
      “Trees, they connect the Earth to the universe,” Dr. Chengelis said, recalling he felt “strongly about giving back to the Earth and his home, Boardman, where my roots are.”
      In 2011, Dr. Chengelis was an honored recipient of the Distinguished Alumni Award given by the Boardman High School Alumni Association.
      In 2012, he was honored by proclamation of the Boardman Township Trustees.
      “The Trustees of Boardman Township tender this proclamation of recognition to thank Dr. Chengelis for his commitment to the causes and institutions of our community and for his continuing interest and efforts in making Boardman A Nice Place to Call Home,” said the proclamation.
      Additionally, Dr. Chengelis established several scholarship endowment funds at Boardman High School, Youngstown State University and the University of Toledo.
      Dr. Chengelis earned both his Bachelor of Science and Bachelor of Arts degrees from Youngstown State University.
      He then earned his masters and medical degree at the Medical College of Ohio at the University of Toledo.
      He has spent most of his professional career in Massachusetts, including as assistant professor of psychiatry at the Boston University School of Medicine. He also provided psychiatric consultation, liaison and emergency services at the Boston University Medical Center.
  Business Embroiled In Lawsuit; And North Lima Businessman Alleged A Death Threat  
  October 10, 2013 Edition  
      A fire at the Spice of India Restaurant, 8398 Market St., directly across from St. Elizabeth Hospital at Market St. and McClurg Rd. gutted the facility early on Tuesday morning.
      Initial reports place damage at an estimated $225,000, even though estimated market value of the site is just $162,410, according to the Mahoning County Auditor’s Office.
      The Metro Arson Task Force and the State Fire Marshal’s Office is investigation the blaze.
      Near 2:00 a.m. on Tuesday, no one was at the business, but by 4:10 a.m., a truck driver called 9-1-1 to report the building was on fire.
      A dog trained to sniff for accelerants had been called to the fire site on Tuesday.
      Sources have told The Boardman News that utilities to the business had been cut off recently and the restaurant business may have recently been sold by Rajendra Ingle.
      The most recent owner of the restaurant was reported to be the 39-year-old Ingle. records of Mahoning County list two addresses for Ingle, including 10061 Brushwood Dr., Streetsboro, Oh.; and 31 Carter Circle, apt. 5, Boardman. He is also reported to be the owner of Jewels and More in the Southern Park Mall, and president of ai & international.
      A document obtained by The Boardman News shows on Mar. 30, Boardman police were called to an apartment complex at 7544 market St. where they spoke with Kulvinder Uppal, 35, who said he is the owner of a Sunoco station at 10650 Market St. in North Lima.
      Uppal told police on Mar. 28, 2013, Ingle called him and stated he would kill Ingle, alleging the Ingle had made similar threats to other people he knows, including one person who made a recording of the alleged death threats.
      At the time, according to the document, Uppal told police that Ingle was mad at him because he (Uppal) had helped the former owner of the Spice of India, identified as Gurnek Singh, in a court case against Ingle “regarding money owed.”
      On Apr. 17, 2013, Singh, 31, of 9443 Deer Track Rd., West Chester, Oh., filed suit against Ingle and Spice of India seeking $25,000 in compensatory damages and a breach of contract in which Ingle owned him $20,000.
      According to a court filing, Singh “organized” the Spice of India as a for-profit corporation in Aug., 2011, as the sole owner of stock in the corporation.
      Ingle also claim to have an interest in the corporation, which according to the suit, “is presently in dispute.”
      The suit suggests on May 1, 2012, Singh and Ingle entered into a partnership agreement in which Ingle agreed to purchase 50 per cent of the shares of stock for $50,000. In addition, the purchase stipulated that Singh and Ingle would share in the daily operations of the business---Singh would do the cooking and operate the kitchen area, and Ingle would be in charge of the dining area.
      “Under terms of the partnership agreement, Singh was to be paid a monthly salary of $3000,” according to the court filing, that claims Singh worked at the business for six months “until early December, 2012, when he left after not being paid for many months.”
      In the lawsuit, Singh claimed he received $1200 “for his work” and was still owned $17,000.
      According to the lawsuit, in June, 2012, Singh and Ingle entered into an additional agreement in which Ingle would purchase an additional 40 per cent interest in Spice of India for $40,000.
      Singh claims he was initially paid $20,000, and received no more money for that agreement.
      According to the lawsuit, Singh made “repeated demands” for the $20,000.
      The lawsuit alleges fraud against Ingle and claims as “defacto manager of the restaurant,” Ingle had a legal duty to pay all sales taxes due to the state of Ohio.
      “Upon information and belief,[Ingle and Spice of India] may have failed to pay in all sales, payroll and employment taxes which became due arising from business operations,” claims the lawsuit.
      Singh also argues that he paid the owner of the property, Tzarnas Family Co. LLC $15,000 as a security deposit; and since Ingle was operating the business, he had been “unjustly enriched” for the amount.
      In the lawsuit, Singh demands a copy of all business records.
      “Without a true accounting...Singh will be unable to determine the current financial condition of [Spice of India], or the full extent of assets and liabilities in order to determine the extent of any missing funds,” says the lawsuit.
      A source told The Boardman News that an eviction notice had been served on the business just a few days before the fire broke out, and the Ohio Department of taxation had filed a lien against the business for failing to pay some 41000 in sales tax.
      The Spice of India first opened in 1951 as Neal’s Restaurant, and later was operated as the Town and Country Restaurant.
      Owner of the property, according to court records, is the Tazrnas Family Co. LLC, of 39 Indianola Rd.
      Boardman police records show on Oct. 7, about 13 hours before the fire was reported, Nick Tzarnas called police claiming people were at the business placing merchandise that didn’t belong to them into a U’Haul trailer.
      Tzarnas identified the persons there as “the people who used to run the business.”
      On Sept. 27, court records showed the Tzarnas Family Co. LLC filed suit against Ingle and Spice of India, claiming the company was in arrears on rent.
      A first cause hearing on that matter has been set for Oct. 21.
  Boardman Park Halloween Events  
  Pumpkin Carve-Out Starts Oct. 11:   October 10, 2013 Edition  
      The Pumpkin Carve-Out Contest is your chance to create spooktacular jack-o-lanterns! Bring your family, friends, carving tools and newspapers for a fun time at Boardman Park. There is a small fee for the pumpkins. Prizes will be awarded in different age categories from children to adults.
      The Pumpkin Carve-Out Contest starts Fri., Oct. 11 from 6:00 to 9:00 p.m.: Sat., Oct. 12, from noon to 9:00 p.m.; and Sun., Oct. 13, from noon until 5:00 p.m.
      The Park’s Family Friendly Haunted Wagon Rides will also start this weekend. Purchase your tickets from 6:30 to 9:30 p.m. Wagon rides will run Fridays and Saturdays for the next three weekends. On Sun., Oct. 13, we will have a Non-Haunted Wagon Ride from 1:00 to 4:00 p.m. Proceeds benefit the following local non-profit groups: 4-H Mahoning County, Key Club of Boardman High School, and Panda.
      Lots of family fun with free events during Haunted Wagon Rides, like a bonfire, storytellers, a children’s Bounce-A-Round, Jocko the Clown, and a Rock Climbing Wall. Food concessions are available.
      Discover the Park online at boardmanpark.com and “Like” us on Facebook.
      Boardman Park, The Green Oasis, where the benefits are endless......
  School Board Approves $56 Million Annual Budget  
  October 3, 2013 Edition  
     Meeting on Monday night, the Boardman Local School Board approved its annual appropriation for the 2014 fiscal year with an overall budget of some $56.213 million.
      The budget includes some $41.73 million in the general fund, and $10.56 million in state and federal subsidies.
      According to documents filed with the Ohio Department of Education (Cupp Report), almost 83 per cent of the annual budget goes for salaries and fringe benefits provided for the district’s 611 employees, or close to $92,000 per employee.
      A close review of the September agenda shows the school board renewed its contracts for Supt. Frank Lazzeri and Director of Curriculum Dr. Linda Ross, through the 2014-15 school year, when it approved its consent agenda following its August meeting.
      Lazzeri’s salary was set at $93,292 under terms of a retire-rehire contract. The board approved that option for the superintendent in 2011, when he was paid $112,000.
      The contract for Dr. Ross was also approved under the system’s retire-rehire program at an annual salary of $64,387.
      The Cupp Report shows the average annual wage of Boardman school teachers for fiscal year 2012 was reported to be $54,531, a little more than $4000 less that the average teachers’ salary in Ohio ($58,119).
      Average annual administrative wage in the Boardman Local School District is $72,380, also a little more than $4000 below the average administrative wage for public schools in Ohio ($76,654).
      According to the Cupp report, enrollment in the Boardman Local School District was 4616 students. Enrollment for the current school year has declined to some 4551 students, according to the Ohio Department of Education (ODE).
      Newly revised report cards by the ODE show the graduation rate in the Boardman Local School District is about 92 per cent, and the ODE gave the Boardman District an overall grade of ‘B’ in the 2012-13 report card.
      According to Supt. Lazzeri, more than 40 per cent of all students enrolled in the Boardman Local School District receive free or reduced-price lunches.
      The superintendent said there are some 1858 economically-disadvantaged students currently enrolled in the local school district.
      A decade ago, according to an annual audit report filed with the Ohio Auditor of State, the annual (expenses) of the Boardman Local School District was set at just $41.442 million.
      The most recent audit filed with the Auditor of State shows at the end of the 2012 fiscal year, the local school district had some $44.53 million in expenses.
      That report, filed by the system treasurer, Richard Santilli, noted “The district continues to be very aggressive in cost-cutting measures...The retire/rehire had been a very successful cost-savings program. The district is afforded a lower cost per employee, while retaining quality and expertise for up to a three-year period. The board continues to explore areas to reduce costs, including health care, natural gas, electricity, workers’ compensation and all insurances...
      “In 2011, the district eliminated 26 teaching positions, two administrative positions and five classified positions...
      “The district has a three-year contract that begins in fiscal year 2012 for all employees. The base wage has been frozen for three years,” Santilli said.
      “The elimination of revenues collected from the personal property tax will have a tremendous impact on the district’s revenue and ability to maintain financial stability,” Santilli said, pointing out the system’s has lost more than $3 million in such revenues over the past decade.
  Boardman Teen, Erin Trell, Dies  
  From Apparent Drug Overdose:   October 3, 2013 Edition  
     A drug overdose, reportedly a mixture of cocaine and heroin, has claimed the life of 18-year-old Erin Trell, of Boardman.
      Miss Trell was reportedly taken to St. Elizabeth Hospital last Friday or Saturday by possibly two persons, after having an adverse reaction to the drugs.
      Services were scheduled for Fri., Oct. 4 at 11:00 a.m. at St. Charles Borromeo Church for Miss Trell, 18, who passed away Monday morning, Sept. 30.
      She was born Mar. 30, 1995 in Rochester Hills, Mich., the daughter of Michael and Angel (Golden) Trell and lived in the Boardman area most of her life.
      She was a 2013 graduate of Boardman High School and had plans to attend Youngstown State University in the spring to study social work.
      She enjoyed going to watch her dad’s softball games and loved animals, especially dogs. She also enjoyed volunteering at the Beatitude House.
      In her death, Erin chose to be an organ donor, a heroic choice that allowed her to help others in their time of need.
      In addition to her parents, she leaves two sisters Alexis Trell of Raleigh, North Carolina, and Madalyn Trell at home, her maternal grandmother Linda Golden, her paternal grandparents Pat (Jeanette) Trell, an uncle Mark (Julianne) Trell of Raleigh, North Carolina, an aunt Lynn Trell of Henderson, Nevada, cousins Anya and Declan Trell along with her beloved three dogs---Norah, Reggie and Gracie. Erin was preceded in death by her maternal grandfather Russell Golden.
      The family requests that material contributions be made in Erin’s name to the Beatitude House, 238 Tod Lane, Youngstown, Oh., 44504.
      A candelight vigil was held in Miss Trell’s memory on Tuesday evening at Boardman High School.
      Her death is the second, tragic drug-related death of a Boardman teen within the past two months.
      Another Boardman HS graduate, 19-year-old Daniel Watkins was shot to death during a reported drug deal for heroin just before midnight on July 25 on Loveland Ave. in Youngstown.
      A 20-year-old man, Michael Brown, has confessed to the murder, according to Youngstown police. Bown told authorities he was meeting with Watkins to trade cough syrup and cash for heroin.
      In the wake of Miss Trell’s death, all that is left is her memory and postings on her Facebook page.
      Ashley Cooper posted “I was sitting here thinkin’ about you, remember in middle school, how much Mr. Shevock and Mr. Toot hated us? We made sure we sat together everyday. and did nothing but talk and laugh all period. And science class, we always got in so much trouble, lol, love you sweetheart.”
      Shayla DeCapita posted “Can’t stop thinking about you. I know you’re in a better place now, but I just don’t want to believe that you’re really gone.”
      Jenny Enyeart posted “Feeling heart broken to say goodbye to such a beautiful girl. It was bitter sweet yesterday reminiscing with Alexis Trell and Katie Enyeart Stone about all of our memories over the years. Heaven gained an angel early this morning, we love you Erin Trell.”
      Steve Jones posted “One thing I can tell people throughout my life about my friend Erin who touched my heart who cared for others. She taught me that life isn’t about money or looking good, it isn’t even about you. It’s about caring for others and touching their lives with your love and not being pissed off all the time because life’s too short and even though Erin died, it is expected in all of us to die and it’s how you effect people when you leave is what God looks at.”
      Missy DeMarinis posted “Words can’t even describe how grateful I was to meet Erin Trell...My prayers and thoughts go out to one of the most caring families I have ever met, the Trells. Love you guys and stay strong! RIP Erin!
      Paul Gianotti posted “Rest in peace Erin Trell. You were so young...you had you’re whole life ahead of you. I feel like I’ve failed in being a friend. You deserved better then this. I pray for your family and all who share in our sorrow. And we’re blessed with the mercy of a loving God who comforts all those who grieve.”
      And Shelby Crowley posted “Open your eyes people, this isn’t the life we have been given to live. Learning to appreciate the people God has blessed me with more and more each day. RIP Erin, another soul too young to pass.
      There is a message in the deaths of Mr. Watkins and Miss Trell.
      Is anybody listening?
  Gretta Knows .....  
  Watch For Me......:   September 19, 2013 Edition  
     Some day all dogs and cats will make their final journey from their earthly homes to their heavenly home. It is so difficult to be separated from those we love and cherish. I wish you were able to see our heavenly home, for it would help bring you peace knowing that your pets are in a special garden, safe, secure and full of love. I wanted to share this letter, which I recently received......
      Several months ago, in the Boardman News, you printed a letter to Gretta from BB in Las Cruces, N.M. This is a follow-up in regards to meeting Gretta one day.
     
      Dear Gretta,
      Recently you read my letter to your pals Rasta, Kachina and Lacey which stated that I may soon meet you all. I am now in transition toward your dimension for the means of that possibility indeed happened.
      The earthly struggle in slowly walking, falling and even rising from frequent naps had become so very difficult. I loved going for a ride but had to be lifted into the car. It was even necessary to retire from the games that visitors and my mistress delighted in joining with me.
      I was happy just to be cuddled, patted, and stroked whereby I retaliated by nuzzling up, gazing into eyes with love and giving a paw in gratitude.
      Several days ago we visited the vet who said the insulin kept my diabetes in control but he found other serious problems that were irreversible. Therefore we agreed for the procedure to end more discomfort as it was later than originally thought.
      The plans for me physically, is to have my dust settle on the nearby paths that we have strolled and where there is a stream. Actually it’s an irrigation canal where I usually took a swim without my folks knowing until I came back to the house all wet. So I’m looking forward with interest about the stream and clear waters in that special land of which you speak.
      Spiritually being with my mistress as she returned home without me, I was aware of her reaction and insight as she witnessed some huge billowing clouds caught in an up draught at the pass in the nearby mountain range. We both realized it was a mutual harmonious extension regardless of whom in space or place.
      Gretta, look for me - I’m on my way!
      Fondly, BB.
     
      Dear BB’s mistress and friends....
      I have gathered Rasta, Kachina, Lacey, Lucky, Squeeky, Remington and Reuger and we are on our way to the Rainbow Bridge to wait for BB. I want you to know that she will not be lonely when she arrives, as we will be here to greet her and will continually help her through the times when she longs for you and your love. We will walk with her and comfort her as she arrives in her new ‘heavenly home’. BB will love the streams and flowing meadows. It is always beautiful here, vivid blue and sunny skies, and all our heavenly dog and cat pals are so kind, BB will be able to run and play endlessly, with us.....
      Sady, the guardian dog of the Rainbow Bridge suddenly remarks... “welcome BB, Gretta and his pals have been waiting for you.” We all ran to greet BB as she cautiously walked across the bridge with Sady by her side. We barked and purred, expressing our warm hellos. BB put her nose in the air! Her body relaxed with happiness as she looked around at each of us. We thanked Sady for escorting BB and all started walking up to the hilltop to show BB the beauty of her new heavenly home. When we appeared at the top of the hill, BB glanced around, “this is breathtaking” she remarked. “I wish my mistress could see my new home, she would smile and it would comfort her knowing what a glorious place this is. that I am no longer in pain and will never be alone!” We all ran down the hill, across the green meadows, and our tails were a waggin... BB’s too!
  Sun., Sept. 29 Date For 37th Annual Rotary Oktoberfest  
  Boardman park  
  September 19, 2013 Edition  
     The 37th annual Boardman Rotary Oktoberfestival will be held Sun., Sept. 29, from 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. at Boardman Park. The event started in 1976 following Boardman Township’s bicentennial celebration, as a community day to bring the residents of Boardman Township together. A feature of those early Oktoberfest were two and five mile runs and a 10:00 a.m. community worship services at historic Old St. James Church in the park. Also on hand was WKBN’s Rollin’ Radio.
      The ‘fest has abandoned those roots and grown into the one of the Mahoning Valley’s largest one day arts and crafts events, drawing vendors from five states. Visitors to this annual fall celebration also come from neighboring states and often arrive by the bus load.
      Chairman of this year’s event is Sarah Marino.
      The Oktoberfestival is the largest single fundraiser of the Rotary Club of Boardman which uses the proceeds to support programs and causes throughout the local area. Other club programs and projects take on an international connection when the Rotary partners with other groups around the globe.
      Admission is $3/person.
      This year’s fest is expected to feature upwards of 200-plus arts and crafts vendors, a variety of fair food and children’s activities.
  Woman Paralyzed During Act Of Kindness Enjoys A Fairytale Wedding  
  September 12, 2013 Edition  
     For most brides, walking down the aisle on her wedding day is a given, but for Alissa Boyle, walking down the aisle on Sept. 7 was truly an amazing accomplishment.
      In Feb., 2012 Alissa sustained severe injuries when she and another nursing student, Cami Abernathy, students at Waynesburg State University, were on their way to clinicals at Ruby Memorial Hospital in Mount Morris, Pa. when they stopped to assist a man in a wrecked vehicle at 6:00 a.m. on Pennsylvania Interstate 79.
      They were forced to leap 40-feet from an overpass to avoid an oncoming semi-truck and in the process, Alissa was paralyzed. She was told by one doctor that she had a one percent chance of ever walking again.
      Just two days prior to that life altering day, Alissa, 23, and Nathan Grimes, 25, (a member of the United States Army with tours in Iraq and Afghanistan), were engaged to be married. She had her ‘Prince Charming,’ but what about the fairytale wedding in the face of such personal tragedy? Answering the call was Jamie’s Dream Team, a non-profit organization out of Pittsburgh, Pa. founded by Jamie Holmes.
      “For her to give up walking while helping a stranger, we had to help her,” said Kim Shidel of the organization. They recruited several local wedding vendors to make Alissa’s dream wedding come true including a reception at Avion on the Water catered by Global Cuisine by Gary Arabia, a high end catering and event production company based out of Hollywood, Calif. and ‘caterer to Hollywood’s elite,’ a horse and carriage from Best Horse Drawn Carriage Service, a wedding cake designed by Clarencedale Cakes, South Ave., Boardman; and even a photo booth from I Spy Photo Booth LLC.
      What would be the perfect ending to this fairytale wedding?
      A honeymoon of course! Following their reception at Avion, the newlyweds headed-off to an all-expense-paid trip for some well-deserved rest and relaxation at a cabin in Deer Creek, Md.
      Alissa and Nathan were married at Trinity Friends Church in Lisbon, where she walked down the aisle to meet her groom.
      “It was truly an inspiring moment when she walked down that aisle,” said Kristen Delvaux, who coordinated the wedding events.
      After the wedding and honeymoon, the newlyweds will relocate to Florida, where Grimes will be stationed at Eglin Air Force Base near Valparaiso.
  Gretta Knows ... A New Season  
  September 5, 2013 Edition  
      Hello my friends! We have all been scurrying around running from one place to another watching all the families get together for Labor Day! It is so enjoyable to see everyone enjoy the day with picnics, games, swimming etc. It brings back many happy memories of how we use to be a part of the holiday, being with our masters and their families, chasing balls, frisbees, swimming and even getting a little forbidden table food snuck under the table! Those were some of the best times!
      Lucky and Squeeky, a cat duo that have become heavenly friends, are running when they see Remington and Reuger, two labs who became reunited at the Rainbow Bridge, and have not left each others sides since. The four of them continue on running through the meadow when they come upon Rasta and Kachina, dog acquaintances of mine from my hometown. Lucky meows, “there’s Gretta, c’mon lets go say hi.”
      They run towards me and as we meet our bodies shake and squirm with happiness. What wonderful friends we all have become. Reuger says,”what a glorious day, watching all the families and friends spending time together”. Lucky says, “no matter how busy our lives may be or how much life throws our way, the holidays bring families and friends together.” Squeeky adds, “just like us, we all meet and are so blessed to have each other.”
      Remington barks, “yes, but with Labor Day passing that means summer is coming to an end, school will begin, and football has started! Another season has passed”. Kachina barks in, “but a new season is beginning. Think of all the new possibilities that are ahead.” “But it can be scary starting something new! At school the pressure to fit in causes fear, or being afraid of making a bad play on the football field”, Rasta howls out!
      “We all need reminded to believe in ourselves, in the gifts that God gave each of us. No two of us are alike. We are each special in our own way. We just have to do our best! Some of us are big dogs, some of us are even cats, some of us can jump and catch a frisbee in the air, some of us are great breeds, and some of us are mixed breeds. We didn’t get to doggy heaven on our looks, or for the tricks we could do... we got here because we sat at our masters feet to comfort them, brought a smile to their faces when they came home, always walked by their sides, listened for hours as they told us their troubles, went to bed when they were tired so they felt protected and secure and gave them unconditional love and devotion.”
      We all stood side by side, and said a little prayer asking God to .... Please watch over all the children as they return to school, giving them the strength to believe in themselves, and to remind them that they are special and to be proud of the gifts that You have given to each of them. Help them to treat others in a kind way, and embrace each new season in life. We all barked Amen, and off we went, walking with our tails waggin!
      Gretta, a Golden Retriever, spent almost 15 years at The Boardman News. She greeted all who entered with a wag of her tail! She died in November of 2012.
      Send your animal tributes/stories to: The Boardman News, 8302 Southern Blvd., S2A, Boardman, OH 44512 or email:gwen@boardmannews.net
     
  ‘A’s Attic’ New Addition To Adamas  
  August 29, 2013 Edition  
Alyssa, Alise and Alexis Rafoth
      An Open House Celebration for “A’s Attic”, a new trendy section of Adamas Jewelry and Gifts was held this past Saturday, to preview this unique mini boutique. The name “A’s Attic” represents the first initials of the Rafoth sisters. Alise Rafoth, with the support of her sisters, Alexis and Alyssa came up with this concept that would provide gifts for teens, babies and the latest trends.
      “It is very difficult to find trendy and cool gift ideas that teens would love.” said Alise Rafoth, who will be a junior at Canfield High School. Buyers for local stores may not be young enough to relate to middle school and high school aged customers and “I wanted to focus on younger customers and felt it would be a great addition for Adamas,” she added.
      Alise discussed the idea with her parents, John and Monica Rafoth, desiring this to be a good business decision that would promote new customers to shop at Adamas. They then presented the concept to their grandparents, Judy and Jim Rafoth.
      Alise has requested that proceeds in part be donated to an Anti-Bullying Effort and to be kept local. Alise, who was bullied herself, wants victims to know that there is help available. “It is much easier to have your peers tell you what to do, what to say, and what to wear, however at some point you need to realize you are not being yourself. For me, as I was being bullied I quickly forgot how to think without others telling me and I lost sight of what truly mattered. I let the feelings and opinions of others guide my life and lost sight of my own true feelings. My counselor Dr. Cathy Hammond helped me to realize that I have to be strong because you have to remember you are the only one who will always be there for yourself.” Alise hopes that by giving public attention to this cause, parents will pay closer attention and do whatever they can, to make sure their child, is not bullying others or is not a victim of bullying.
      For more information about Adamas Jewelry and Gifts, 8391 Market St., Boardman, visit www.adamas.com or call 330-758-4787.
     
  20-Year-Old Confesses To Killing Boardman Teen  
  During Drug Deal:   August 8, 2013 Edition  
     A 20-year-old Youngstown man has confessed to shooting and killing 19-year-old Daniel Watkins, of 764 Squirrel Hill Dr. just before midnight on July 25 in the driveway of 3721 Loveland Rd.
      YPD officer Robert DiMaiolo said police found a 2000 Pontiac Firebird in the driveway of the home and Watkins was found in the driver’s seat “slumped over the center console with numerous gunshot wounds to the torso area and barely breathing.”
      Watkins was taken to St. Elizabeth Hospital where he was pronounced dead, Officer DiMaiolo said.
      On Thurs., Aug. 1, Youngstown police arrested Michael Brown, of 2354 Mt. Vernon and charged him with the death of Watkins.
      According to published reports, Brown confessed to shooting Watkins four times; and Watkins was at the Loveland home trying to trade cough syrup and cash for heroin.
      Brown faces a scheduled Aug. 9 preliminary hearing in the courtroom of Youngstown Municipal Judge Elizabeth Kolby on Fri., Aug. 9. he is currently lodged in the Mahoning County Jail on $250,000 bond.
      The home on Loveland where Watkins was shot is reported to be owned by Ron Violante, 17 Audubon Lane, Poland.
      Watkins had been arrested in April of this year and charged with the thefts of seven cell phones at the D.D. and Velma Davis Family YMCA in Boardman.
      At the time he told police he had been a heroin addict and stole the cell phones to support his habit.
      He told police he would purchase his heroin from a man on the south side of Youngstown.
      Watkins also told police in April that he had completed a drug rehabilitation program.
  Gretta Knows...... Time Heals  
  August 8, 2013 Edition  
Gretta, a Golden Retriever, spent almost 15 years at The Boardman News.
      Monday nights for the past few weeks have been somewhat strange! Dogs and cats scurry everywhere here in ‘doggy heaven’ to try and get a glimpse of the Bachelorette on a tv down on earth. I heard purring and barking off and on as Desiree had her heart broken when Brook decided he didn’t love her! We’ve all been there ... but in the end she chose a new man and realized how wrong Brooks was for her. This started a group discussion, when Rasta, a dog pal from home, asked ‘how many of us have had a broken heart?”
      Susie, a white poodle remarked, “one of my puppies died at birth and it broke my heart”. Cocoa, a chocolate lab barked in, “when my master went away and never came back, it broke my heart”. Lucky, a calico cat purred, “when I got lost and couldn’t find my way back home, it broke my heart”. Sady, a golden lab who is the gatekeeper at the Rainbow Bridge, whimpered, “when a dog or cat reach the bridge to cross over from their earthly home to their new heavenly home, and they are so saddened to leave their masters, it breaks my heart”.
      Kachina, a black lab barked, “How do our hearts heal after they have been broken”? “Somehow, time heals our hearts”, I said. Susie added, “Yes Gretta, somehow over time, hearts do heal. My remaining puppies needed my love and care, and they gave me love in return, which helped heal my loss.” Cocoa barked in, “When my master left I didn’t want to go on. I thought nothing will be the same without him. I went to a new home and my new master was so kind and filled my life again with security and trust, my heart healed too”! Lucky rubbed against me, (still don’t know why cats do that), she purred, “After I was lost, I wondered into a yard, and my new master took me in. I was a Lucky cat, for she treated me like a queen. So even though my heart had been broken, my life changed leading me to a home filled with blessings”.
      Sady barked in, “We all have crossed the Rainbow Bridge when we reach our heavenly home, and I watch each lonely and sad dog or cat cross that bridge. When they get to the other side, I notice them looking around at the beauty that is before them, after they take one last glance back at me, they slowly begin to walk across the meadow before them. Go up over the hill, I bark to them, and once they reach the top of the hill, other dogs and cats run to meet them, old friends, brothers, sisters moms or dads are among them, and off they go, running together. So Gretta, I do agree with you, that time does heal a broken heart”.
      Rasta added, “We all are hurt in ways that break our hearts, but somehow if we put one paw in front of the other, and move forward and allow time to heal, our hearts will find blessings again”. Kachina barked again, “We allowed the beauty of this heavenly place to fill each of our souls, and we found each other’s friendship and love.”
      We all stood and glanced around at each other. Suddenly the creek looked so inviting we all ran down and jumped in. We splashed and shook with joy, and yes...our tails are a waggin!
      Gretta, a Golden Retriever, spent almost 15 years at
      The Boardman News. She greeted all who entered with a wag of her tail! She died in November of 2012. Send your animal tributes/stories to share to: The Boardman News, 8302 Southern Blvd., S2A, Boardman, OH 44512
     
  19-Year-Old Shot To Death In Youngstown  
  Had Heroin Habit:   August 1, 2013 Edition  
     A 19-year-old, 2012 graduate of Boardman High School, Daniel A. Watkins, of 764 Squirrel Hill Dr., was shot and killed last Thurs., July 25 while sitting in his car at 3721 Loveland, on the south side of Youngstown.
      Watkins had been arrested in April of this year and charged with the thefts of seven cell phones at the D.D. and Velma Davis Family YMCA in Boardman.
      At the time he told police he had been a heroin addict and stole the cell phones to support his habit.
      He told police he would purchase his heroin from a man on the south side of Youngstown.
      Watkins also told police in April that he had completed a drug rehabilitation program.
      Watkins was believed to have been shot by a passenger in the 2000 Firebird he was driving. Witnesses told Youngstown police the passenger fled on foot on Buckeye Circle after shooting Watkins, who was pronounced dead at the St. Elizabeth Hospital Medical Center. Witness reported hearing up to five gun shots.
      Watkins played baseball for the Boardman Spartans as a junior and senior, playing at the pitcher and outfielder positions.
      A candlelight vigil in his memory was held on Sunday night at Boardman High School that was attended by an estimated 200 persons.
      Funeral arrangements were handled by the Davis-Becker Funeral Home.
  Trustees To Place Two Renewal Tax Issues On November Ballot  
  August 1, 2013 Edition  
     Boardman Trustees routinely approved a second reading of a motion to place to tax renewal levies on the November ballot when they met on Monday evening at the Government Center.
      Resolutions requesting certification for a 3.2-mil general fund renewal and 2.2 police and fire renewal were approved.
      Township Administrator Jason Loree said the levies currently bring some $3.1 million annually into the township.
      Following their regular meeting, Trustees adjourned into an executive session for negotiations with the police department’s patrol division union.
      Carl Flick, of 72 Maple Dr., president of the North Boardman Neighborhood Association, addressed Trustees, inquiring about when residents of the neighborhood can cut grass on vacant properties.
      Zoning Inspector Sarah Gartland said the township can only cut grass when it reaches a height of 10-inches. She did not discourage the neighborhood association from cutting grass at a lower level on vacant sites.
      On the recommendation of Gartland, Trustees moved to amend the zoning ordinance from R-2 (apartments allowed) to strictly R-1 for 157 lots in the Poland Heights subdivision.
      In other matters, Trustees approved $2695 for the purchase of a Lidar Laser Unit for radar patrols for the police department.
  Potential Development High School Dedicated To Teens With Autism  
  August 1, 2013 Edition  
Sen. Joe Schiavoni; Lisa Fryda, parent; Paul Garchar, Exec Dir Potential Development; and Sue Stricklin, Board member
      Potential Development Program officially unveiled their plans to open a high school in the Mahoning Valley dedicated specifically to teens with Autism at a pre-construction preview on Wed., July 31. The new Potential Development High School for Autism is expected to open this fall as 1 of only 3 high schools of its kind in the State of Ohio.
      “Only 56% of students with Autism Spectrum Disorder graduate high school,” explained Paul Garchar, executive director at Potential Development Program. “With a rise in the number of school-age children being diagnosed with some form of Autism, these students need our help to increase their graduation rate.”
      Until now, local families of high school age students with Autism have often been faced with the difficult decision of sending their children to public schools, sending them to special education schools lacking the Autism education principles or home schooling them. At the Potential Development High School for Autism, students will now have the opportunity to graduate, receive their diploma and develop essential skills to lead a more independent life.
      The new 30,000-square-feet campus is located at 2405 Market Street (former Anthem building) to allow easy access for families in surrounding areas. It will accommodate students in grades 9-12 and incorporate features centered on creating an optimal learning environment for children with Autism that include: 8-9 large classrooms equipped with SMART Boards and iPads; Model apartment to teach life skills; Fine arts learning center; State-of-the art science lab; Group room for multi-class learning; Occupational and speech therapy rooms; State-of-the-art sensory rooms; Cafeteria and an enclosed outdoor recreational area.
      To learn more about how you can help create brighter futures for students with Autism in our community visit CreateBrighterFutures.org.
  Date Rape Trial Of Former Center Middle School Teacher  
  Delayed By Continuance:   July 18, 2013 Edition  
     The trial of a 56-year-old former Center Middle School teacher, Jay Dana, on three counts of date rape, did not begin Mon., July 15 in the Mahoning County Common Pleas Courtroom of Judge Maureen Sweeney, as originally was scheduled.
      Instead, Judge Sweeney granted a motion for a continuance filed by Dana’s counsel, Atty. J. Gerald Ingram, who also set a date of Fri., Aug. 2 for a pre-trial hearing on the matter.
      At a pre-trial hearing held June 17, the county prosecutor’s office and defense counsel agreed they are still in a discovery process and needed additional time to “view all the massive amounts of paperwork, videos and audiotapes.”
      Dana is accused of raping three women, including on Sept. 10, 2006, between July 1 and July 31, 2006, and on or about May 10, 2011.
      Additionally, The Boardman News learned investigators interviewed a woman on June 21 who has claimed she was a victim of Dana.
      Dana’s indictment alleges the former school teacher raped his victims while their ability to resist or consent was substantially impaired.
      When allegations of the May 10, 2011 surfaced, Dana abruptly left his teaching post at Center Middle School.
      Court records show Dana is free on a $10,500 bond and at the end of June was allowed by court order to travel to the state of New Mexico for three days.
  Trustees Costello, Calhoun Will Seek Another Term  
  July 18, 2013 Edition  
     Incumbent Boardman Trustees Tom Costello and Brad Calhoun made it official last week that they will seek re-election this November by filing their petitions with the Mahoning County Board of Elections.
      Costello and Calhoun assumed office in Jan., 2010 after soundly defeating the tandem of Kathy Miller and Robyn Gallitto, under whose majority township government became splintered and dysfunctional.
      After nearly four years in office, Costello and Calhoun, working with Trustee Larry Moliterno and Fiscal Officer William Leicht, as well as their employees, have largely restored township government, evidenced by passage of several renewal levies and a 3.85 additional levy that boosted manpower by 11 officers at the Boardman Police Department.
      Costello, Calhoun and Moliterno began their journey to restore government by holding meetings for more than a year at local churches, promising to do all they could to restore manpower within the police department, as well as hearing the concerns of a wide base of residents.
      Under Miller and Gallitto, some 15 officers left the police department due to the uncertainty of leadership that eventually forced a well-recognized, professional police chief from office; as well the township’s administrator.
      In addition, under Miller and Gallitto, upwards of nine firemen were laid off and during their absence, remaining firemen manipulated their schedules to cost the township hundreds of thousands of dollars, as well as force the intermittent closing of fire stations.
      That waste is still under investigation, as three firemen are being considered for criminal prosecution after an investigation conducted by the Boardman Police Department and the Ohio Bureau of Criminal Investigations. Their results are currently being held-up by Mahoning County Prosecutor Paul Gains, who has moved slower than a turtle in bringing the case to any conclusion, suggesting a plea bargain could allow some who abused the public trough to escape prosecution.
      In addition to bringing back badly-needed manpower at the police department, Costello and Calhoun were instrumental in hiring a very professional, well-respected fire chief for Boardman Township.
      Fire Chief George Brown was hired and under his administration the large amounts of overtime paid to firemen have largely ceased, saving the township hundreds of thousands of dollars.
      Current trustees Costello, Calhoun and Moliterno have now turned their attention to efforts to build a new, main fire station to replace the existing structure that was built during the Great Depression.
      As well, under Costello, Calhoun and Moliterno, several major drainage projects have been completed, most importantly work around Boardman Lake.
      In the Zoning Department, Trustees Costello, Calhoun and Moliterno have continued Boardman Township’s aggressive enforcement of zoning codes in an all-out effort to maintain the integrity of local neighborhoods.
      After ten years of standing vacant an eyesore on Market St., the Terrace Motel will be torn down.
      The current trustees have also been very visible to the public and in particular have held a Community Day for the past three years, every summer, that has attracted thousands of people to the Township Government Centre.
      The current slate of Trustees has also proven to work well with the local school board, particularly upgrading township government programs on the system’s public education television station.
      To date, according to the Board of Elections, only two other people have taken out petitions (not yet filed) to seek the position of Boardman Trustee in November. They are Richard Scarsella, a member of the Mahoning County Board of Education who was aligned with Miller four years ago; and Green party member Jim Villano.
      “When Tom Costello and I first took office, we faced some serious fiscal and personnel issues. It seemed like Bill Leicht and Larry Moliterno were battling alone to keep us above water. When we joined forces and worked with the staff, unions and residents, we turned things around and started making progress,” Calhoun said on filing his petitions.
      Added Costello, “We want to keep Boardman Township moving forward. Trustees Calhoun, Moliterno and myself, and Fiscal Officer Leicht have worked together with only one mission---do what’s best for the long-term interests of Boardman Township residents. We have faithfully followed that mission.”
     
  Trial Of Former Teacher Accused On Three Counts Of Date Rape Set For Mon., July 15  
  Set For Mon., July 15:   June 13, 2013 Edition  
     A trial date of Mon., July 15 in the Mahoning County Courtroom of Judge Maureen Sweeney has been set for a former Center Middle School teacher who stands accused of three counts of date rape.
      Jay Dana, 56, formerly of Walnut St., Boardman, was indicted by direct presentment on May 23. He entered a plea of not guilty during his arraignment on Tues., June 4.
      Dana is accused of raping three woman, including on Sept. 10, 2006, between July 1 and July 31, 2006; and on or about May 10, 2011.
      Each count of the indictment reads “The jurors of the Grand Jury of the State of Ohio...do find and present...that Jay Dana did engage in sexual conduct [with someone not a spouse]...and the woman’s ability to resist or consent is substantially impaired because of a mental or physical condition, or because of advanced age, and the said Jay Dana knows or has reasonable cause to believe that [the women’s] ability to resist or consent is substantially impaired...against the peace and dignity of the state of Ohio.”
      Dana was employed with the Boardman Local Schools for 30 years. He abruptly left his position in May, 2011, before the ending of that school year.
      Dana has retained J. Gerald Ingram, Esq., as counsel.
  Mahoning County 4-H And Boardman Park To Oversee Operation Of Famed Stables  
  “In the country where there is sunshine, trees and an alluring pastoral environment”:   May 9, 2013 Edition  
     Meeting last month, Boardman Park and Mahoning County 4-H entered into an agreement on the site of Southern Park Stables on Washington Blvd., the former home of Janie Jenkins, noted equestrian and writer, who passed away in Apr., 2012. Ms. Jenkins deeded the property, a national historic site, to the park in 1993. Future plans call for a community garden, and a horse ring operated by the 4-H. Following is the history of Southern Park Stables, as written by Janie Jenkins.
     
      BY JANIE JENKINS
      According to an article headlined “Youngstown’s New Racing Plant” in The Horse Review of Dec. 15, 1915, Southern Park Trotting Track (that was located at McClurg Rd. and Southern Blvd.) in Boardman Township was “in the country where there is sunshine, trees and an alluring pastoral environment.”
      On race days, upwards of 10,000 people would attend horse meets there.
      The inaugural meet at the track, which was the enterprise of two men whom the magazine dubbed “The Iron City Gentlemen,” Sen. David Tod and H.H. Stambaugh, both prominent in city circles and worthy endeavors, was on July 15, 1915.
      The magazine, published by The Horse Review Company of 918 Masonic Temple, Chicago, Ill., further extolled the advantages of the location of Southern Park---its proximity to Youngstown, “a city of 125,880 people and accounted the richest, community of its size in the United States,” and its accessibility via the Youngstown & Southern Railway streetcar whose tracks ran parallel to Southern Blvd.
      The streetcar made regular stops at the Washington Blvd. entrance to Southern Park, just a block north of the McClurg Rd. main entrance to the track, and also at McClurg Rd. And for the increasing number of city folks coming to the park in automobiles, both Southern Blvd. and Boardman Road (now Market St.) were good - for the times - hard surface roads. Indeed, the then two-lane Route 7 was brick, while other roads were either dirt or gravel.
      Horse owners, particularly those from out of town and out of state, shipped their steeds in boxcars via the railroad, and at McClurg Road there was a ramp for unloading them.
      Southern Park itself and the nearby track were a mere 11 miles south of Youngstown and a mile and a half from Boardman Center, as the intersection of Routes 224 (then Ohio Ave., now Boardman-Canfield Rd.) and Route 7 (now Market St., then Boardman Rd.) was known.
      Southern Park was a spacious area with tall trees and open fields. Within its confines were picnic tables, swings, pumps for sparkling well water, a baseball diamond, horseshoe courts, tennis courts and a dance hall.
      It was a favorite spot for family gatherings and reunions, for company picnics and organization-sponsored outings for groups of inner-city children who otherwise would not have an opportunity to experience fresh air and sunshine in an alluring pastoral environment.
      Picnickers or those headed for the races disembarked the streetcar at Washington Blvd. and walked a woodland trail to their destinations. The racetrack’s rear entrance was on Raub Ave. off Washington Blvd., so it was easy to picnic first and then amble the short distance along Raub.
      Today, Boardman Township is no longer country, with almost every available residential and commercial space filled. The Routes 7 and 224 intersection is one of the most congested and hazardous in the state.
      Occupying 60 acres at the Center is sprawling Southern Park Mall and a number of other township businesses preceded their names with Southern Park.
      And yet, if a survey were to be taken in the township, indeed in Mahoning County and surrounding counties from where the throngs of shoppers and business-oriented persons come, it is doubtful that anyone has the foggiest notion from where the Southern Park prefix came.
      Southern Park is, of course, long gone, its sunshine and fresh air and fields and trees replaced by apartments, commercial developments and light industry, and now, even a hospital.
      Long gone too is Youngstown’s “new racing plant.” Southern Park Trotting Track’s 55 acres, with its half-mile track, numerous barns, grandstand, judges’ stand, flower gardens and wrought iron entrance gates, had been “alive” from 1915 to 1925, but it eventually surrendered to progress and the Great Depression. Fires and neglect had already doomed them.
      As late as 1946, the remains of Tod’s barn still stood, its equine residents frequently injured when rotted floorboards gave way. The outline of the track was still visible and nearby horse owners enjoyed riding there.
      But in 1949 the entire area was sold (to C.R. Smith Sr. and son for $35,000) and in the decades since then numerous business concerns have been built on the land.
      On what was the backstretch of the race track, where once could be heard the clickety-click of trotters’ and pacers’ hooves---now heard are the clippety-clip of golf clubs hitting golf balls down an outdoor driving range (Tee-Up). The woodland trail from Southern Blvd. to Washington Blvd. and Stadler Ave. was years ago cut through so that Washington runs between Southern and Market. The once ash-covered boulevard, designed as a quarter of a mile so trainers could jog their horses before heading for the track, is blacktopped and is a speedway for another kind of horse power.
      It is still, however, a boulevard, with flowering crabapple trees down the grassy center which extends only to Raub Ave. (Mahoning County for some reason changed the name of Raub Ave. two years ago to Raupp Ave.). Traffic is heavy, as motorists seek to avoid the crush of cars on the main arteries by using it as a shortcut to both Market St. and Southern Blvd.
      But at 126 Washington Blvd. is the privately owned Southern Stables, one of two remaining structures from those halcyon pre-Depression times.
      Centering on eight acres, perhaps half in fenced pasture and deliberately overgrown thickets to screen apartments on the east and west, it is well-tended, obviously loved, and up until two years ago, housed two retired pleasure horses owned by Janie Jenkins.
      A pasture pond on the property lures ducks and little green herons. Deer, displaced by progress, browse in the thickets, and in the early spring the “bzeep” of courting woodcocks can be heard above the sounds of traffic on Market Street.
      An oasis in the encroaching “civilization,” the stable-residence and acreage stand as a tangible memory of the days when lathered horses returned to the barn after winning - or losing - their race, and at the entrance to the long driveway back to the barn are the wrought iron gates that once welcomed patrons to the racetrack’s main entrance two blocks south of Washington Blvd. Years ago they were rescued from the weeds and weather and hung from white brick posts.
      This is Southern Stables which David Arrel, a contemporary and friend of Tod and Stambaugh, built for his own string of standardbreds. He modeled it after Tod’s - The Horse Review pictures both and they are identical - with a wide aisle, three stalls on one side and six on the other. Hinged window skylights allowed good air circulation in warm weather and could be closed for the winter.
      Grooms’ quarters, a bathroom, and Arrel’s weekend office with its fieldstone fireplace occupied the west side, under the same slate roof as the stable, and a shower room in which carts were hosed down occupied the east side. There were fenced paddocks where horses could relax, and there were deep manure pits so no unsightly piles would offend visitors. Three wooden flagpoles with copper ball finials stretched from the roof, two in the rear and one at the front, and Old Glory flew daily.
      In 1986, Southern Stables was placed on the National Register of Historic Places of the National Park Service, United States Department of the Interior, through the efforts of its owner - the writer - but more on that later.
      Across the boulevard, Myron H. and Blanche Davis and their children, Grace, Myron and Elaine, had easy access to the racetrack, the park and Arrel’s stable. During the racing season, owners and trainers and sometimes their wives boarded in the big, four bedroom house. The fact that there was only one bathroom didn’t bother anyone. Blanche often fed 100 or more persons a day, and Myron’s plumbing skills were frequently utilized at the track and in the barns.
      Standardbreds weren’t the only breed of horses to race at the track. Thoroughbreds had meets, too, and as automobiles became more numerous there were exciting auto races and “auto polo.” At one time there were dog races, and an especially exciting event was the landing of an airplane in the infield after a flying exhibition. Boardman School track meets were also held at the track.
      Grace Davis and her brother, Myron better known as “Abe,” used to live in the big house at 111 Washington Blvd. They remembered vividly the horrendous night one of the racetrack barns caught fire from a carelessly tended oil stove, and nine flaming horses ran screaming through the darkness.
      Abe never forgot reaching out his hand and touching something dreadful – the scorched hide of a dying horse.
      The Youngstown Fire Department was offered $75 to lend to assistance to help fight the big fire, and the department came, but the vehicles became mired and the trip was in vain. Boardman’s volunteer fire department arrived and formed a bucket brigade, managing to keep the fire from spreading to other barns and buildings.
      During the meets, more than one horse gave its all to the race, collapsing at the finish line, being destroyed and being buried in the infield. One of them was Tom Patchen, who did the mile in 2:10. Also, a few horses were destroyed as the result of falls they suffered during the races. They, too, were buried.
      After Arrel’s death, his establishment too began to disintegrate, although several other horse aficionados occupied it from time to time. Among the barn’s more famous standardbred occupants was Victor Guy.
      A Youngstown dentist, Dr. C.O. Brown, owned the stable for several years and raised and raced trotters. His father, “Old Man Brown,” who lived on the city’s north side, traveled every morning by bus and trolley to the “country” to help care for the horses and then returned home via trolley and bus.
      Not until the late 1930s, after the stable had been empty and neglected for some time., did hope come for its rescue in the persons of brothers, R. Edwin, Joseph E. and Robert F. Jenkins, and their sister, Mary, originally from Uniontown, Ky., who had come to Youngstown to start a neon sign business.
      Joseph E. was the first to arrive with the others following, although Robert, the youngest, served in World War II before joining the rest of his family. Another brother John, would also come later, although neither he nor Robert were among the “rescuers.”
      At the suggestion of a friend, C.R. Stambaugh, who knew the boys liked horses - what Kentuckian doesn’t? - they decided to try to buy the stable which was to be sold at sheriff’s sale at the courthouse door. The effort was successful, and with a great deal of labor and hardship, the barn began to live again. A large living room over a full basement was added to the west side, a double garage on the east side for balance, and smaller additions were made to the kitchen and a room to the north. The fieldstone fireplace in the front- room was, alas, sacrificed, and the room became a bedroom, as did the room to the north.
      Little was changed in the barn, although the room where the carts had been hosed down became a paneled tack room. Another six stalls were built in a concrete block addition to the north, and a two-room apartment with a small lavatory was incorporated into what had been part of the haymow.
      In the meantime, Joseph married and moved into the living quarters, as did his sister. Ed lived in the small apartment and when Robert came home from the Army, he too lived upstairs. All worked at the Jenkins Sign Co. in Youngstown. Pleasure and gaited show horses - boarders as well as family-owned - filled the stalls, more fences and a show ring were built, and Southern Stables began to resemble a horse farm in Kentucky.
      Ed married in 1946 and before the wedding; his bride (the writer) rode her own horse, which had been stabled at George Bishop’s barn in Poland, through woods and farmers’ fields to their new home.
      When Joseph and his wife, Mildred, had a daughter and a son, it was time to move into their own house, and for a short while Robert and his new wife, Jean, lived in the main living quarters while Ed and his wife remained upstairs.
      Not much later, Ed and his wife bought the remainder of the family’s interest in the property. In the following two decades they purchased additional vacant land to east. Show horses gave way to thoroughbreds, but that venture was not successful.
      At about the same time, the marriage also failed, and the property was divided equally, with the writer choosing to keep the residence and eight and a half acres.
      Unfortunately, the residence and stable had once again been allowed to deteriorate, as money which should have been used for maintenance and repairs had been invested in the thoroughbred business.
      In the years since then, the stable and residence were completely restored, including new roof - except for a portion which retains the original slate - and painting inside and out.
      Before Janie Jenkins death, the barn aisle way was hung with marvelous antique horse-oriented art, and the east side of the front porch has been screened for pleasant summer sitting. The original porch swing hung there, and the lanterns on either side of the front barn door are also original, as seen on the early photograph.
      During Miss Jenkins’s final years, two venerable horses (Pinky and Tags) had free access to the pasture during the day and were as much pets as the two dogs and one cat who called Southern Park home. As of Apr., 2, 1995, there were three dogs: a seven-week-old Dalmatian puppy, the owner’s 11th Dalmatian over the years, by the name of Orion.
      Unfortunately, the towering flagpole at the front of the barn had to be taken down a number of years ago. Entirely of wood, age and the elements had made it so dry and porous that the rain came through it and was creating a roof leak around it. It was preserved, however.
      The copper ball which topped it was preserved, cleaned and lacquered, and was part of the decor in the living room. The other two poles remain, one still with its copper ball finial, but it would be too risky to have anyone try to retrieve it.
      A wondrous huge stone horse head carving - not original with the barn - attracted a great deal of attention as it loomed in front of the east porch. It was acquired from a friend whose business was demolition in the Cleveland area, and although he could not recall from which estate it came, he couldn’t bear to destroy it and it was given to the owner more than 40 years ago.
      Also acquired about the same time were several antique iron hitching posts, a three-step stone mounting block and an immense hand-carved stone watering trough, all of which blend with the general ambience.
      In the upper pasture is a fenced area to mark the grave of a beloved horse who achieved fame in haute ecole exhibitions, having been trained by the writer. He had been foaled in 1961 on the farm and died on the farm in 1977.
      Also within that small cemetery are the ashes of the writer’s beloved father, Barnard H. Steinfeld, who died at age 89 in 1984; and the writer. A flowering crabapple tree centers the enclosure.
      Two other beloved horses are buried on the property, and when the remaining ones, Pinky, 19, and Tags, 16, go to their Pasture in the Sky, they too will be buried here.
      As of June 11, 1993, the deed was transferred as a gift to Boardman Township Park, of which she a commissioner, with a lifetime estate clause, also with the stipulation that it forever be preserved intact as an annex to the park, also with a restriction that all natural areas remain natural, neither can the property ever be developed, or the building removed.
      The Horse Review, the 1915 publication which was extremely helpful in getting the property on the National Historic Register, was given to the owner by Elizabeth Arrel Thompson, a relative of David Arrel who built the barn.
      In recent years, commercial and residential development has taken over most of the land around the property, and in the summer of 1994 the once lovely vista from the back of the barn was spoiled with clearing of hundreds of hundreds of trees to make room for a parking lot and building for United Parcel Service.
      To both the east and west of the barn, the owner has permitted Mother Nature to build her own natural barriers, hiding completely unsightly apartments, and deer bed down in those impenetrable jungles, coming out in the evening for corn put out for them. In the spring, peepers sing from the pond and over the years the “bzeep” of the courting woodcocks can be heard. Canada geese and mallard ducks and occasionally a pair of wood ducks fly in and out, and on sunny mornings and afternoons the pond’s banks are lined with painted turtles.
      It is all of this and much more that made the decision to forever preserve what could never be built again and to allow future generations a glimpse into what was a gracious past. And it is a great comfort to the writer to know the peepers and the woodcocks, the geese and the ducks and the deer will always have a place to call home.
  Saxton, Cardillo Promoted By Boardman School Board  
  Cardillo Will Become High School Principal Saxton Moves To Director Of District Operations:   April 25, 2013 Edition  
     The Boardman Board of Education promoted two administrators during its regular meeting held on Monday night in the small auditorium of Center Middle School. In addition, eight teachers were granted continuing contracts.
      Promoted to the post of Director of Operations for the Boardman Local School District was Tim Saxton, who has served as principal of Boardman High School for the past eleven years.
      Promoted to the post of principal at Boardman High School was Jared Cardillo, who has served as assistant principal at the high school for the past decade.
      Following his graduation from Grove City College, Saxton has been an educator for some 25 years.
      He began his career at Bedford High School where he was a math teacher for eight years. In addition, while there he served as a football and track coach.
      He left Bedford for a position with the Canfield Local School District where he was a high school math teacher for three years and served for three years as an assistant high school principal. While at Canfield, Saxton also served as a football and track coach.
      He received his master’s degree from Westminster College and is a member of Boardman United Methodist Church, where he also serves on the board of the Vacation Bible School.
      Saxton and his wife, Gina, are the parents of three daughters, Anna, a freshman at Boardman High School; and twins Ashley and Alicia, students at Center Middle School.
      Cardillo graduated from Youngstown State University and earned a master’s degree from Ashland University.
      He began his career in education serving one year at Champion High School as a social studies teacher and then moved to Boardman High School where he served for six years as a social studies teacher before being promoted to the post of assistant principal.
      During his tenure at Boardman High School, he also served for two years as head basketball coach.
      Cardillo is a member of the Church of Jesus Christ.
      He and his wife, Gina, are the parents of two children, a daughter Franchesca is a freshman at Boardman High School; and a son, Luciano, who attends Center Middle School.
      Saxton and Cardillo will begin their new duties on Aug. 1.
      Granted tenure by the school board were the following:
      Angela Brine, second grade teacher at West Blvd. Elementary; Carrie Davis, high school math teacher, Jamie Daggett, Center Middle resource room teacher; Courtney Lauderman, high school social studies teacher; Jessica Meli, Stadium Dr. Elementary second grade teacher; Allison Morgan, Center Middle science teacher; John Richey, high school science teacher; and Mark Zura, high school SLD resource room teacher.
      Resignations were accepted from five high school teachers, including Barbara Berman and Joe Cleghorn, English instructors; Tom Shirilla, science instructor; and Dan Gorski and Ron Stoops, social studies instructors.
      A parental leave of absence was granted to Gina Ries, Glenwood Middle science teacher, effective Apr. 8 through May 24.
      Scott Alm was granted a limited one year contract as a district maintenance employee under the retire/rehire program, and Matt Brothers was hired as a school bus mechanic, replacing Clint Lepowsky.
      The school board also accepted the resignation of Terri Centric from the cleaning staff due to retirement.
  New Funeral Home Features Beautiful Chapel  
  April 11, 2013 Edition  
     Officials of Becker Funeral Homes joined with Regional Chamber members, Mahoning County Commissioners, Boardman Township Trustees and others for a ribbon-cutting ceremony last week at the new Davis-Becker Funeral Home, 8536 Market St.
      The new 12,000 sq-ft facility is the Mahoning Valley’s most modern and comfortable funeral home, with many features that set it apart from other funeral homes in the area, including:
      •A large non-denominational chapel that can accommodate 200 family members and friends for services,
      •Four beautifully appointed viewing rooms,
      •State-of-the art audio and video technology, soon to include the ability to stream a live telecast of funeral services online via Skype to those unable to attend in person,
      •An adjacent Family Center for after-funeral dining, and
      •A monument store and flower shop on the Family Center premises
      According to Dan Becker, president of Becker Funeral Homes, “This facility represents a longtime dream of mine and was designed from the ground up to provide the ultimate in services to families in the Mahoning Valley.”
      The Davis-Becker Funeral Home in Boardman will serve Boardman, Beaver Township, Canfield, Poland, Youngstown and surrounding areas.
  Ignazio Lands Job As Boardman’s New  
  February 7, 2013 Edition  
     The Boardman Board of Education announced its new head football coach, Joseph Ignazio, 38, during a press conference held last week. Ignazio succeeds Mark D’Eramo, who resigned after last season.
      The Spartans went 4-6 last year.
      Ignazio’s first task at the helm of Spartan grid fortunes will be to rebuild the staff.
      Perhaps as many as four coaches from last year’s team will not return, including former YSU quarterback Tom Zetts, who has indicated he may pursue a second career as a football official, in addition to his duties as a teacher in the Boardman Local Schools. Another grid assistant, Joe Cleghorn, has resigned to take a position at the college level.
      Ignazio has received inquiries from a variety of coaches, both locally, and as far away as Tennessee and South Carolina, who have expressed an interest in the Boardman grid program.
      “We have a lot of expectations for the football program and we are somewhat unique, in that we are one of the few Division I high school programs in the area,” Ignazio said this week.
      The new Boardman head coach will also look to expand interest in Spartan football.
      “Our numbers are way down, last season we closed out with about 45 student-athletes on our roster. I will seek to expand that to upwards of 65 players,” Ignazio said.
      He noted Boardman has “some good players returning next season, but our lack of numbers also means a lack of depth.
      “We had a lot of talent last season, but we lacked depth. Late in the season, with so many kids playing on both sides of the ball, it seemed to take a toll on us. If we can get our numbers up, hopefully we can improve our depth.”
      Ignazio and his staff will open the 2013 campaign with an away game against Div. I Hilliard-Darby on Fri., Aug. 30. The Panthers finished the regular season last year with an unbeaten mark and finished 11-1, losing to Pickerington North in the Div. I regional semifinals.
      The following weekend, Boardman hosts Cardinal Mooney.
      The Cards finished the year at 3-6, the second-worst record in school history (2001). It was only Mooney’s fifth losing season in 55 years of football.
      Ignazio will immediately go to work on the program’s off-season conditioning program; and hopes to get more than 45 student-athletes from the high school’s 622 boys to participate in the football program.
      “I am very thankful for this opportunity,” Ignazio said this week, indicating he hopes his tenure with the Spartan grid program will be a long one.
      “Hopefully I will bring some young blood and renewed enthusiasm to the program,” Ignazio said.
      The new head coach graduated from Boardman High School in 1993 and graduated from Youngstown State University in 2000. Since his graduation from YSU, Ignazio has been a teacher at Center Middle School, where he was the recipient of a Boardman Schools Foundation academic grant.
      Since joining the Boardman School System, Ignazio has served as an assistant coach for Spartan football, wrestling and track programs.
      As an assistant in the Boardman grid program, he has served under three head coaches, Garry Smith, D.J. Ogilvie and D’Eramo.
      Ignazio and his wife, Christine, are the parents of two children, Alexa, 5; and Joe III, 2.
      2013 BOARDMAN GRID SCHEDULE
      Aug. 30...............at Hilliard-Darby
      Sept. 6...............Cardinal Mooney
      Sept. 13..............at Poland Seminary
      Sept. 20..............Canton GlenOak
      Sept. 27..............Austintown Fitch
      Oct. 4................at Massillon Perry
      Oct. 11...............North Canton Hoover
      Oct. 18...............at Massillon Jackson
      Oct. 25...............at Canton McKinley
      Nov. 1................Uniontown Lake
  Corey Winebold To Receive Eagle Award  
  November 1, 2012 Edition  
     Cory R. Winebold, son of Kevin J. and Shelley A. Winebold of Boardman, will be receiving his Eagle Scout Award on Sat., Nov. 10 at Camp Stambaugh on Leffingwell Rd. in Canfield.
      From Cub Scout Pack 60 as a Tiger to Webelos II earning his Arrow of Light and crossing over into Troop 46 where he worked even harder to achieve the rank of Eagle Scout. Cory’s Eagle Scout project included the creation of a symmetrical garden outside the gates of Loghurst, re-created the two historical herb garden bed dating from 1850-1895 and a garden area from 1895-1978 located directly behind the house.
      What is so remarkable about Cory’s project is the intense amount of hours it took to redo these five garden beds in order to maintain the historical accuracy.
      Cory’s Boy Scout accomplishments also include---earning 64 merit badges, The American Heritage Award, World Conservation Award, Two Religious Awards – God & Me and God & Life. Cory has held many different positions throughout his scouting career – den chief, librarian, quartermaster, patrol leader, assistant patrol leader and now holds the position of junior assistant scoutmaster. In addition Cory is currently working on achieving the prestigious Olympic Medal of Boy Scouts known as the Hornaday Award at Loghurst Farmhouse & Museum.
      Cory attends Boardman High School where he is an active member of the school’s marching band, jazz group, bowling team, and is currently working on achieving a position with the National Honor Society. Cory was in Who’s Who for the last two years, won Greater Lakes Scholars and was chosen for People to People four years in a row. Cory is hoping to start pre-law after graduating high school.
      When Cory has nothing else to do he enjoys reading, hanging out with friends and family and going to his grandparents camp on Pymatuning Lake. Cory finds much satisfaction in assisting with the youth programs at his church.
     
  Boardman Native Anthony LaMarca Will Appear On Fallon Show  
  January 1-7 2015 Edition:   October 31, 2024 Edition  
Anthony LaMarca
     Boardman native Anthony LaMarca will appear Mon., Jan. 6 on the late-night Jimmy Fallon Show as a member of the War on Drugs Band.
      LaMarca, a 2005 graduate of Boardman High School, graduated from the The New School for Jazz and Contemporary Music in New York City in 2009. The day after his graduation, he went on tour as the drummer with a group called St. Vincent.
      “Anthony LaMarca is [a] boy wonder, boy genius. He graduated from college and then the next day he went on tour with me, forever. He’s just a delight. He’s so funny. He came in and tried out and he’s just like, everything about what he did was meticulous. Like, he had a very good sounding snare and he brought it. Everything about it—about him—you could tell there was care and thought put into everything he did,” said Annie Clark of St. Vincent.
      The War on Drugs is an American indie rock band from Philadelphia, Pa., formed in 2005. LaMarca, best-noted locally as a drummer, plays the guitar for the band.
      LaMarca and his brother, Angelo, co-founded a record label, Primary Records, in Brooklyn, New York, in 2011. The label features his band, ‘The Building,’ that also includes his brother and former Boardman High School classmates Megan Sears (cello) and Andrew Carlson (bass), with Kentucky native Jason Lawrence (drums).
      The War on Drugs latest album, Lost in the Dram, has been voted among the top releases in 2014. Following its appearance on the Fallon show, the group will leave for a tour that includes shows at Albert Hall in London, England; as well as venues in Spain and Norway.
  Treasures Of Township History Abound At Historic Detchon Home  
  January 1-7 2015 Edition:   October 31, 2024 Edition  
Albert Eyster Homestead
     Situated in Boardman Park is the historic Oswald Detchon home, named after one of the first 27 families to move to Boardman more than 200 years ago.
      The home was formerly located near Southern Blvd. on Rt. 224 and was moved to Boardman Park in 1985, and now serves as home to a significant collection of local history, collected by the Boardman Historical Society members Don and Patsy Ann Zabel over the past 50 years.
      “We want people to know the about the collection, and we are open for tours at anytime throughout the year,” Don Zabel said this week, adding he and his wife both like history and “preserving it.”
      At the age of 40, Oswald Detchon, a native of England, came to Boardman in 1801, among 27 families that settled here that year. He owned 800 acres of land in Boardman, and by 1803, old records show he was the second-largest taxpayer in the township, paying annual taxes of $1.30.
      Among the most prominent members of the Methodist Episcopal Church, its early meetings were held in a log schoolhouse on Detchon’s farm (roughly located on the northeast corner of Rt. 224 and Southern Blvd.) before the first church edifice was erected about 1835.
      Detchon died in 1836 in Boardman at the age of 75, and many years later, Judge Harold Doyle and his new wife called the Detchon home ‘their home” for several years.
      Detchon was a noted tanner and was among the early caretakers of Boardman Cemetery. He was known for paying good prices for hides and pelts.
      In 1984, a car dealership (Ford) bought the old Detchon property and the Boardman Rotary Club provided the funding to move the home to the historic village in the park, where it now sits (along with Olde St. James Meeting House and the Schiller-Chuey Summer Kitchen House).
      Among the thousands of historical items in the museum are old tools, photographs, Boardman High School yearbooks, clothing, furniture, documents, knick-knacks and other items commonly used in the past. There’s a couch, old manual typewriters, a wall tapestry and hundreds of photographs, including a photo of the 1964-65 Boardman High School basketball team that reached the Final Four.
      “Former Boardman coach Dick Selby donated that photograph of the basketball team,” Party Ann Zabel recalls.
      There is one artifact of Boardman’s history that is missing from the Oswald Detchon home. That is a rock, said to be engraved with the initials ‘E.B.’ History recalls the rock was placed at Boardman Center when the founder of the township, Elijah Boardman, first settled here in 1978. It had been in possession of Boardman Park until about 50 years ago when Ivor Jenkins retired as park superintendent.
      “Artifacts at the Detchon home have been donated to us,” Don Zabel says, adding “usually when a family member dies.” Key donors to the museum include the Zabels, Howard and Bernice Simon (whose family owned a large farm on Indianola Rd., near the present day Robinwood Lane Elementary School), and Roberta Ramsey.
      “Without them, and the efforts of the Boardman Rotary Club, I don’t know where were would have all of these displays,” Patsy Ann Zabel noted.
      The home is open for tours, by appointment, that can be arranged by calling the park offices at 330-726-8105.
      Picture: THE ALBERT EYSTER HOMESTEAD used to be located along what is now Market St. at Sciota Ave. The home in this picture was built between 1880 and 1890. Pictured in the wagon is Albert Eyster, who was known for hauling coal and lumber in the wagon. Tis picture is among the many in the Oswald Det-chon Home at Boardman Park. (More pictures in the Jan 1-7 2015 edition).
  Boardman Native Dr. Justin Mistovich Joins Youngstown Orthopaedic Assoc.  
  January 1-7 2015 Edition:   October 31, 2024 Edition  
Dr. Justin Mistovich, (L) & Bob Campbell (R)
     Dr. Justin Mistovich, a 1999 graduate of Boardman High School, recently returned to his hometown, to open his pediatric orthopaedic practice, and join the team at Youngstown Orthopaedic Associates (YOA), 1499 Boardman-Canfield Rd., in Boardman.
      YOA is now expanding their services to include treatment of children with spine conditions. Dr. Mistovich specializes in the treatment of pediatric fractures, sports injuries, and spinal conditions, including scoliosis.
      Dr. Mistovich graduated from Duquesne University in Pittsburgh, Honors College, cum laude, with a Bachelor of Arts in Spanish and a Minor in Biology, in 2003. He graduated with his Doctor of Medicine from Wright State University School of Medicine in Dayton in 2008.
      In 2008, Dr. Mistovich also served as a health policy intern for Congressman Tom Prince, working with Congressional staff to develop policy documents on healthcare legislation, attending congressional healthcare hearings and summarizing policy points and ideas.
      His orthopaedic surgical residency was completed in June 2013 from Allegheny General Hospital in Pittsburgh. Dr. Mistovich completed his clinical fellowship in pediatric orthopaedic surgery in July of 2014, under a world-renowned surgical team, at the Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia.
      Dr. Mistovich joined with Bob Campbell in August of 2014, to co-direct a course at The Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia for the FDA, discussing new innovations and advances in the care for children with spinal deformities and how to care for them. Bob Campbell invented a device called the VEPTR, which can treat very young children with spine and chest wall deformities. Dr. Mistovich stated, “His device saves the lives of kids with these deformities who almost would have died from their disease before.”
      After the earthquake in Haiti, Dr. Mistovich volunteered to serve on a medical disaster relief team in 2010 in Port-au-Prince, Haiti. He was in charge of an orthopaedic trauma operating room, in a tent hospital, with an Eastern European general surgeon.
      Dr. Mistovich has also authored manuscripts; book chapters, including The Spine section for the upcoming 20th edition of the Nelson’s Textbook of Pediatrics; surgical technique videos, and lectures on pediatric orthopaedic surgery.
      Dr. Mistovich and his wife Keili have a daughter named Madeleine. He is the son of Joyce and Ron Mistovich of Boardman.
     
  LEGAL NOTICE  
  December 31, 1969 Edition  
     Boardman Township Trustees
      Mahoning County, Ohio
      Home Rule Resolution No. 16-04-11-08
      Home Rule Resolution Adopting and Codifying Requirements for Holding Special Events
      Second Reading
      The Board of Trustees of Boardman Township, Mahoning County, Ohio met in Regular Session at the Boardman Township Government Center on the 22nd day of April, 2016, at 3:30 p.m. with the following members present: Thomas P. Costello, Brad Calhoun, Larry Moliterno.
      Moved by Mr. Calhoun, seconded by Mr. Costello to approve and adopt Home Rule Resolution 16-04-11-08, to be effective 30 days from the date of adoption, in accordance with Ohio Revised Code Section 504.10 and publication as follows:
      WHEREAS, the Boardman Township Board of Trustees adopted a Limited Home Rule government in accordance with Ohio Revised Code Section 504.01 by Resolution duly adopted and approved October 12, 1999;
      WHEREAS, Boardman Township constitutes an Urban Township with Limited Home Rule Authority as provided in the Ohio Revised Code Section 504.01, vested with the powers rights, and immunities granted therein;
      WHEREAS, Boardman Township currently does not have any mechanism for regulating large-scale, outdoor events that attract visitors for special recreational, entertainment, charitable, or commercial events;
      WHEREAS, Boardman Township desires to create such a mechanism for regulating the dates, times, location, and conditions under which these special events are conducted within the Township and in a manner which is necessary for the general health, safety and welfare of the general public;
      WHEREAS, as a limited home-rule township under Ohio Revised Code Chapter 504, Boardman Township has the power to adopt and enforce within the unincorporated area of the township local police, sanitary, and other similar regulations that are not in conflict with general laws or otherwise prohibited by Section 504.04(B);
      WHEREAS, the Boardman Township Board of Trustees finds that establishing a special events permit is really and substantially related to the public health, safety, morals, or general welfare of the public; and
      WHEREAS, the Boardman Township Board of Trustees finds and determines that all formal actions of this Board concerning and relating to passage of this resolution were taken in an open meeting of this Board and that all deliberations of this Board and of any of its committees that resulted in such formal action were taken in meetings open to the public and in compliance with all legal requirements, including Ohio Revised Code Section 121.22.
      NOW THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED, THAT THE FOLLOWING REGULATIONS BE AND HEREBY ARE APPROVED AND ADOPTED, AS AMENDED, TO BE EFFECTIVE 30 DAYS FROM THE DATE OF SECOND READING, PUBLICATION AND CODIFICATION:
      ARTICLE I. GENERAL PROVISIONS
      Section 1: Purpose
      The purpose of this Resolution is to provide Boardman Township with a mechanism for regulating the dates, times, location, and conditions under which permittees are authorized to conduct special recreational, entertainment, charitable, or commercial events for individuals to congregate or assemble outdoors for a single purpose within Boardman Township in a manner consistent with maintaining the public health, safety, and welfare of its residents and the visitors who are attracted to Boardman Township for such special events. Boardman Township also wants to ensure that adequate and appropriate emergency provisions or other township support is available, if needed. Nothing in this Resolution is intended to prohibit, restrict, or delay any person, group, or organization from any activity otherwise permitted by law.
      Section 2: Scope
      This Resolution does not apply to (A) organized school-related programs, sporting events, and activities; (B) other public programs, activities, parades, or events authorized by the Board of Township Trustees or the Chief of Police or his or her designated representative, whether or not on public property; (C) programs, events, and activities at the Boardman Township Park that are organized or approved by the Boardman Township Park District; or (D) programs, events, and activities that are organized or approved by the Mill Creek Metropolitan Park District on property owned by it. This Resolution does not supersede any other applicable federal, state, or local rules or regulations.
      Section 3: Definitions
       (A) “Special Event” means any outdoor event, sponsored by an individual, business, or other entity or organization intended primarily for recreational, entertainment, charitable, or commercial purposes to be held within the jurisdiction of Boardman Township which does not block off any street, public sidewalk, alley, or highway area. The Chief of Police must approve any temporary closure of any street, public sidewalk, alley, or highway area separately from the Special Event Permit process. This definition includes that portion of an “indoor event” that contemporaneously occurs at an adjacent outdoor space. A “Special Event” may, but does not have to, include the cordoning off of areas in a parking lot to create a space where people are intended to gather.
       (B) “Applicant” means the individual, corporation, partnership, or other entity or organization sponsoring the proposed Special Event and who is responsible for all aspects of the Special Event.
       (C) “Special Event Permit” means a permit duly issued in accordance with this Resolution for the conduct of a Special Event containing such terms and conditions which the Chief of Police finds necessary to conduct the Special Event in a manner which is consistent with maintaining public health, safety, and welfare of Boardman Township residents and visitors who are attracted to Boardman Township for such special recreational, entertainment, charitable, or commercial events.
       (D) “Block party” means a party organized by and for the benefit of the residents of a residential block or neighborhood on a temporarily-closed road or street.
       (E) “Holder” means an Applicant who has received a Special Events Permit.
      ARTICLE II. SPECIAL EVENTS PERMIT
      Section 1: Special Events Permit Required
      No person, corporation, partnership, or other entity or organization may conduct a Special Event without a Special Events Permit.
      Section 2: Review by the Chief of Police
      The Chief of Police or his or her designee will review all Special Events applications.
      Section 3: Special Events Permit Application
      An Applicant must submit a Special Events Permit Application to the Chief of Police at least 14 days before the date of the Special Event. The application must be on a form provided by the Township that includes, at a minimum, the following information:
       (A) name, address, and telephone number of the Applicant;
       (B) date(s) and times of the Special Event;
       (C) description of the Special Event, including any name that the Applicant will use to advertise the Special Event;
       (D) address or location where the Special Event will take place;
       (E) estimated number of people attending the Special Event;
       (F) plan for dealing with traffic, parking, crowd control, and sanitation and refuse services;
       (G) anticipated need for Township-related services for the Special Event;
       (H) evidence of financial and personnel-related capability to run the Special Event, including, but not limited to, the ability to provide security personnel, age verification, liability insurance, and first aid;
       (I) name, address, telephone number, and cellphone number of the individual who will be present at the Special Event and will be responsible for the overall operation of the Special Event, if not the Applicant.
      Section 4: Fee
      An Applicant must pay a $20 fee when submitting a Special Events Permit Application to cover the costs of reviewing, processing, and enforcing this resolution. There is no fee for a block party or a Special Events sponsored by a house of worship on its premises.
      Section 5: Criteria for Issuing a Special Events Permit
       (A) In considering whether to issue a Special Events Permit, the Chief of Police shall not issue a permit when:
        (1) the proposed Special Event is scheduled to begin earlier than 5:00 pm on a weekday;
        (2) the proposed Special Event is scheduled to end later than 11:00 pm on any day; or
        (3) the proposed Special Event is to take place in property zoned other than Commercial, except this subprovision does not apply to a block party or a Special Event sponsored by a house of worship on its premises.
       (B) In considering whether to issue a Special Events Permit, the Chief of Police may not issue a permit when:
        (1) the Chief of Police determines the proposed Special Event cannot be conducted in the location proposed without endangering the public, disturbing the peace, threatening public health, or damaging private or public property. The Chief of Police may consider the following criteria when making a determination under this section:
        (a) whether the Applicant has provided adequate parking and traffic control for the Special Event, including sufficient parking spaces near the Special Event have been made available to the Applicant by the property owner to accommodate the number of vehicles reasonably expected for the estimated number of people attending the Special Event.
        (b) whether the Applicant has provided adequate crowd control and security for the Special Event.
        (c) whether the Applicant has adequate liability insurance.
        (d) whether the proposed Special Event poses a burden on Township-related services.
        (e) whether the proposed Special Event will have an undue adverse effect on neighboring properties due to noise, litter, or other negative features, and whether the Applicant has a plan to address them. While it may be presumed that a proposed Special Event that otherwise complies with the provisions of this Section will not have an undue adverse effect on neighboring properties, but evidence that prior Special Events conducted by the Applicant or on the same premises as the proposed Special Event has had an undue adverse effect on neighboring properties is sufficient to rebut this presumption.
        (f) whether the Applicant has adequate financial ability and staff to conduct the Special Event satisfactorily.
        (g) whether the application contains any misrepresentation of material facts.
       (2) the Applicant has previously
        (a) violated any provision of this Resolution; or
        (b) failed to comply with the terms of a Special Events Permit issued under this Resolution.
      Section 6: Multiple-Day or Regularly-Occurring Special Event
       (A) A Special Event may take place over the course of one or more consecutive days but not more than four. For any such Special Event, only one Special Events Permit Application will be required.
       (B) (1) For Special Events that are scheduled to be held on a regular or recurring basis at the same location within a six-month window and for which a similar setup is required at each occurrence, only one Special Events Permit Application will be required.
       (2) Upon notice to the Holder, the Chief of Police may review a Special Events Permit that has been issued for a regular or recurring event and revise the terms of the Special Events Permit if the expected circumstances for which the Special Events Permit was granted change during the course of the time in which the Special Event has occurred. The Chief of Police will work with the Holder to agree upon revised terms, but the Chief of Police retains the authority to revoke the Special Events Permit under Article II, Section 9.
      Section 7: Responsibility for Special Event
      (A) A Holder is solely responsible for conducting the Special Event in compliance with the conditions of the Special Events Permit and for maintaining public safety and order during the Special Event. Boardman Township does not assume any liability or responsibility by issuing a Special Events Permit.
      (B) As part of the Application, the Applicant shall agree to assume the defense of and indemnify and save harmless the township, trustees, boards, officers, employees, and agents from all suits, actions, damages, or claims to which the township may be subjected of any kind or nature whatsoever resulting from, caused by, arising out of, or as a consequence of such Special Event and the activities permitted in connection therewith.
      Section 8: Pre-Paid Expenses for Police Protection
      If police protection is deemed necessary for the event, the Chief of Police shall inform the Applicant, and the Applicant must secure the police protection deemed necessary at the Applicant’s sole expense. The Chief of Police may require such an expenses to be paid to the Township before a Special Events Permit is issued or may issue the Special Events Permits and require the expenses within a reasonable period of time before the Special Event, in which case the Chief of Police will revoke the Special Events Permit if the expenses are not paid by that time.
      Section 9: Revocation of Special Events Permit
      (A) Any Special Events Permit may be revoked by the Chief of Police or his or her designee at any time when, by reason of emergency, disaster, calamity, disorder, riot, traffic conditions, violation of this Resolution or any permit conditions, or undue burden on public services, he or she determines that the health, safety, tranquility, or welfare of the public or property requires such revocation.
      (B) The Chief of Police or his or her designee will notify the Holder or other person designated in the Special Events Permit Application in writing by personal service or certified mail, or, if the Special Event has commenced, orally, in writing, by personal contact or service, or by telephone or text message.
      (C) Continuing a Special Event after the Chief of Police has given the notice required by Article II, Section 9(B) has been delivered is unlawful.
      ARTICLE III. PENALTIES, SEVERABILITY, AND EFFECTIVE DATE OF RESOLUTION
      Section 1: Enforcement
      This Resolution and the terms and conditions of a Special Events Permit shall be enforced by any law enforcement officer or by any other Township official designated by the Township or the Chief of Police to enforce these provisions.
      Section 2: Penalties
      A violation of any provision of this Resolution or the failure to comply with the terms of a Special Events Permit shall constitute an unclassified civil misdemeanor punishable by a civil fine as follows:
      (1) First Offense - $250.00
      (2) Second Offense - $500.00
      (3) Third Offense - $750.00
      (4) Fourth and Subsequent Offenses - $1,000.00
      Section 3: Severability
      If any paragraph, provision, or section of this Resolution is held to be invalid by the final decision of any court of competent jurisdiction, then that decision will not affect the validity of the remaining paragraphs, provisions, or sections of this Resolution. The Boardman Township Board of Trustees declares that it would have adopted this Resolution and each paragraph, provision, or section thereof despite the fact that one or more paragraphs, provisions, or sections would be declared invalid.
      Section 4: Effective Date
      This Resolution shall be effective thirty (30) days from the date of adoption.
      ROLL CALL
      Mr. Brad Calhoun, Trustee, aye
      Mr. Thomas Costello, Vice Chair, aye
      Mr. Larry Moliterno, Chair, aye
      BY ORDER OF THE BOARDMAN TOWNSHIP TRUSTEES:
      Brad Calhoun, Trustee
      Thomas Costello, Vice Chair
      Larry Moliterno, Chair
      ATTEST:
      William D. Leicht, Fiscal Officer
      Approved as to Form:
      Matthew G. Vansuch, Special Legal Counsel
      CERTIFICATION
      I, William D. Leicht, Fiscal Officer of Boardman Township, do hereby certify that the foregoing Resolution is taken from the Minutes of Boardman Township at a meeting duly-held on April 22, 2016 that the same has been compared by me with the original Resolution of said Minutes, and that said Resolution is a true and correct copy thereof.
      William D. Leicht
      Fiscal Officer
      Second reading was Friday, Apr. 22 at 3:30 p.m. when the Boardman Township Board of Trustees meets at the Boardman Township Government Center, 8299 Market Street, Boardman Township, Mahoning County, Ohio.
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