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.

     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.”

     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.

     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
      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
     

     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.

     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.

     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

      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.

     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
     

     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.

     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 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.

     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.
     

     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
     

     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
     

     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.
     

     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.
     

     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.

     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.

     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.

     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 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.

     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.

     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.

     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.

     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
      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
      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

     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.

     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.
     

     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

     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.”

     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.

     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.”
     

     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 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.

     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.

     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

      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.

     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.

     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.

     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.

     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.
     

     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.

     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.

     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.

     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.

     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.

     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 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 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.

     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.

      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.

     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 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.

      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.

     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.
     

     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.

     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.

      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

      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.

     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.

     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

     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.

      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.

     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.

     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.

     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.

     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.
     

     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.
     

     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.

     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.

     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.

      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.

      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.

     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
      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
      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
     

     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 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.

      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!

     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.

      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.

     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.

     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.

     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.

     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.

     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.

     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.”
     

     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).

     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.

     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.

     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.

      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.”

     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: 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 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]

     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.

     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 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.

     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.

     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
      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
     

      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, 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 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.

     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.”

      “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, 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.

     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.”

     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....!
     

     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.

     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 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.”

     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.

     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, 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.

     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 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.
     

     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 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.

     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.”

     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.

     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.

     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.”

     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

     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.”

     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.

     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.

     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.
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      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.”