Geauga County • March 3, 2025
Good morning, Geauga County. Infrastructure improvements are quietly reshaping our local landscape, with Eastlake's Route 91 bridge now slated for a major overhaul. The deck replacement project will stretch through August 2026 β a timeline that reminds us good things come to those who wait (and navigate construction detours). This long-term investment in our community's backbone joins another local triumph as Fairport Harbor celebrates their Employee of the Year, Village Administrator Lukas Darling, whose leadership apparently helps fellow officials sleep better at night.
Amid these forward-looking developments, our community also pauses to honor a remarkable life well-lived. Ralph Schwendeman's passing at 93 marks the end of an era for Middlefield. From his 13 years of school board service to helping found St. Lucy Church, his legacy lives on through four generations of family and countless community contributions that have quietly shaped Geauga County into the place we call home today.
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π§ Eastlake's Route 91 bridge gets major overhaul plans. City Engineer Brian Meluch recently met with the Ohio Department of Transportation to discuss the upcoming bridge deck replacement project. The work will include replacing the deck and making various repairs to the Route 91 (SOM Center Road) bridge over the railroad in Eastlake. Construction is expected to continue through August 2026, providing much-needed infrastructure improvements for local commuters.
π Village Administrator Lukas Darling wins Employee of the Year in Fairport Harbor. Fellow government workers selected Darling for the prestigious 2024 recognition, demonstrating their appreciation for his leadership. During a council meeting, someone named Manross publicly praised Darling, expressing gratitude for his service. The official noted they "put their head on their pillow very well at night" knowing Darling holds his position. This recognition highlights the respect Darling has earned among his colleagues in the Fairport Harbor Village government.
ποΈ Community pillar Ralph Schwendeman leaves behind a legacy of service at 93. The Middlefield resident passed away peacefully on February 27, 2025, after a life dedicated to family, faith, and community involvement. A proud graduate of Middlefield High School and career manager at Geauga Industries, Schwendeman served 13 years on the school board and helped found St. Lucy Church. He is survived by his wife Doris, three children, 11 grandchildren, 20 great-grandchildren, and one great-great-grandchild, with another on the way.
Hawken squeaked past Notre Dame-Cathedral Latin 52-51 in a nail-biter that had fans clutching their seats until the final buzzer. The Hawks improved to 18-7 with the win, building momentum before they hit the road to face the red-hot Elida Bulldogs, who are riding high after their own impressive victory over Shelby.
| Team | Opponent | Score |
|---|---|---|
vs Hawken* | L 52-51 |
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