🏠 Habitat heroes

Good morning, Geauga County. The dream of homeownership just became reality for Laurie and her family as Lake-Geauga Habitat for Humanity celebrated its 98th housing project dedication in Chardon. This milestone represents more than just a new address—it's a testament to what communities can accomplish when volunteers, donors, and families partner to tackle affordable housing challenges one nail at a time.

Meanwhile, Burton Township officials wasted no time strengthening their digital defenses after an email breach was discovered in April, promptly implementing security measures that prevented any data loss. And history enthusiasts found their paradise at the Geauga County Fairgrounds earlier this month, where the relocated Village Viking Festival transported visitors to an immersive Norse world complete with combat reenactments, traditional crafts, and authentic Viking cuisine—proving that sometimes the past makes for the most captivating present.

🌤 Sky Skoop

Chardon

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57°

Middlefield

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South Russell

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Burton

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☕️ What's Brewing Locally

🏠 A Chardon family finally has a place to call home. Lake-Geauga Habitat for Humanity celebrated the dedication of its 98th project on May 4 at 465 N. Hambden Street in Chardon. The special event marked homeowner Laurie and her family moving into their new house, representing another step toward affordable housing solutions in the community. LGHH works throughout Lake and Geauga counties providing housing solutions and critical home repairs through partnerships with volunteers, donors, and families. The organization continues its mission of creating affordable housing opportunities for local families in need.

🔒 Township email breach prompts swift cybersecurity action in Burton. Burton Township Trustees unanimously contracted with Geauga County Automatic Data Processing board to provide cybersecurity for township email accounts following a hacking incident discovered April 24. Fiscal Officer Katie O'Neill reported that county officials notified her of the breach, and ADP responded with guidance within 15 hours. O'Neill immediately implemented the recommended security measures, and confirmed that "nothing was lost" during the incident. The decision was made during a special meeting held on April 30.

⚔️ Vikings storm Geauga County Fairgrounds with historical flair. The Village Viking Festival returned with a bang May 3-4, relocating to the spacious Geauga County Fairgrounds in Burton. Organizer Jenny Brede attributes the festival's growing popularity to Viking-themed TV shows, people's desire to reconnect with hands-on skills, and interest in historical education. Visitors experienced an immersive journey into Norse culture through combat reenactments, traditional crafts, authentic food, and a bustling Viking village. The event aimed to provide a "living educational experience with real-world skills" while bringing Viking history vividly to life.

Colonial Perfection Five Updates Galore: This colonial home, listed at $500,000, offers an updated open-concept kitchen, three bedrooms, three bathrooms, multiple living spaces, and outdoor amenities nestled on a cul-de-sac with countless recent updates including septic, roof, and HVAC.

Woodland luxury with golf perks: This luxurious Novelty, Ohio woodland retreat offers 4,500 square feet of living space with high-end amenities like a putting green and fingerprint-secured wine cellar, priced at $724,900 and fully updated with new windows and HVAC.

Canyon Mansion Luxury Home Oasis: #🏡 REAL ESTATE ROUNDUPPriced at $1,275,000, this exceptional custom-built Paglia Home in Canyon Lakes features an open floor plan with 5 bedrooms, 3 full baths, gourmet kitchen, and luxurious finishes throughout the 3 levels of living space.

🗓️ Happenings & Hoopla

⚾ May 9 - Patriots vs. RubberDucks: Catch the Somerset Patriots as they take on our Akron RubberDucks at Canal Park on May 9! Bring the family for an exciting night of minor league baseball action in downtown Akron.

💪 May 9 - MAGIC HUNKS Ladies Night: Get ready for the ultimate ladies' night as the MAGIC HUNKS® heat up Iron Horse Saloon on May 9! Doors open at 6pm for this 21+ event—grab your limited tickets now for an unforgettable evening.

🎸 May 10 - Chayce Beckham Live: American Idol winner Chayce Beckham lights up The Roxy at Mahall's on May 10! Catch this rising country star's soulful performance at 7:00 PM in Lakewood. Grab your tickets now!

⛳ May 10 - LLS Blood Cancer Golf: Swing for a cure at the LLS Golf Outing and Steak Dinner at Bunker Hill Golf Course in Medina on May 10th. Support the fight against blood cancer while enjoying a day on the greens!

🤠 May 10 - Morgan Wallen Tribute Night: Catch country music fever as 7 SUMMERS, the #1 Morgan Wallen tribute band, rocks The Local Bar on May 10! Get ready for an epic night of hits at 14751 Pearl Rd, Strongsville.

👩‍👧 May. 10 - Mom's Day Off: Give Mom the break she deserves at MOMS DAY OFF! Enjoy concerts, art exhibitions, and more at 101 Main St, Chardon on May 10, 2025, for an unforgettable day of well-earned relaxation.

⛵ May 11 - Yacht Rock Sunday Brunch: Sail into Sunday fun at the Yacht Rock Brunch! Groove to smooth tunes while enjoying morning cocktails at Mercury Music Lounge in Lakewood on May 11 at 11:00AM.

🌸 May 11 - Mother's Day Buffet: Treat Mom to a special Mother's Day Buffet at Punderson Manor Lodge! Celebrate with delicious food and beautiful surroundings at 11755 Kinsman Rd in Newbury Township on May 11, 2025.

🙏 In Remembrance

Thomas Sarantos

Thomas Sarantos, 66, passed away unexpectedly at his home. Born in Cleveland on October 12, 1958, he later moved to Munson Township and graduated from Chardon High School in 1977. Tom worked as a self-employed contractor specializing in wallcovering installation and was known for being hardworking, trustworthy, and talented. He is survived by his siblings Ellen and Steven, nephews Benjamin and Eric, an aunt, and his companion Beth Lieblich, who along with other friends and family will gather for his graveside service on May 9, 2025.

David Arthur Sommer

David A. Sommer, 85, passed away on April 28 with his wife by his side. After graduating from high school in Cleveland and college in Chicago, he had a long career with the YMCA, starting as Youth Director and eventually becoming Executive Director of several branches. He later became a minister of the United Church of Christ, serving in various capacities around the county. David is survived by his wife Linda, whom he married in 1980, as well as his children, grandchildren, and siblings. Known for his charm and memory for names and faces, David loved his family, the outdoors, singing, and storytelling.

James Alan Whelchel

James Alan Whelchel, 45, of Newbury, Ohio, passed away on May 4, 2025, leaving behind his fiancée, mother, children, stepchildren, siblings, and extended family. Born on September 1, 1979, to Ed and Irma Whelchel, James was known for being a jack of all trades with a passion for understanding how things worked, expressing himself as both a mechanic and an artist. He was preceded in death by his father and grandparents. Funeral services will be held on May 12-13, 2025, at Sly Family Funeral Home in Middlefield, with burial following at Orwell Cemetery.