🛡️ Disaster defenders

Good morning, Geauga County. When disaster strikes, preparation makes all the difference. County officials are racing against the clock to update our Natural Hazard Mitigation Plan before the 2025 deadline, ensuring our community remains eligible for crucial federal relief funding during floods, winter storms, and other emergencies. This behind-the-scenes work represents an invisible shield protecting residents when nature unleashes its fury.

As summer approaches, practical community services are taking center stage. Huntsburg seniors can mark their calendars for special trash collection days on June 5-6, while budget-conscious entertainment seekers might want to attend Mentor Library's cord-cutting workshop on June 10. The free session promises to reveal streaming secrets that deliver your favorite shows without the cable bill—proving that sometimes the best things in life are free (or at least available with your library card).

🌤 Sky Skoop

Chardon

45°

51°

89%

Middlefield

43°

49°

87%

South Russell

48°

53°

87%

Burton

43°

49°

87%

Aquilla

46°

50°

86%

☕️ What's Brewing Locally

🌪️ Geauga County races to update critical disaster plan by 2025. County officials are revising their All-Natural Hazard Mitigation Plan to maintain eligibility for federal disaster relief funding. The update, mandated by the Disaster Mitigation Act of 2000, must receive FEMA approval before the current plan expires. The comprehensive strategy outlines measures to reduce long-term risks from natural hazards including floods, winter storms, and severe weather events. Public participation is encouraged as officials prepare draft meetings for community review and input.

🗑️ Huntsburg seniors get special trash pick-up days in June. The 2025 Huntsburg Senior Trash collection will take place on June 5 and 6, providing assistance to residents aged 60 and older. Those interested must register with the Geauga County Department on Aging by May 28 to receive this service. The program represents one of several community services aimed at supporting elderly residents in maintaining their properties. Registration can be completed through the Department on Aging's intake process.

💰 Cut cable and still enjoy your favorite shows and movies. Mentor Public Library is hosting a free program on June 10 to help residents save money through cord-cutting strategies. A librarian will evaluate which streaming services offer the best value and highlight free options available with a library card, including Hoopla and Kanopy. Attendees will learn how to stream content to their preferred devices while maintaining access to entertainment they enjoy. Registration is required for the 6:30 PM event at the Lake Branch.

Mountain modern luxury acreage: This $1,395,000 "mountain modern" masterpiece boasts a spacious open floor plan on three acres, featuring stone fireplaces, towering ceilings, one-floor living with a private guest suite, and a luxurious walkout basement.

Palatial Retreat Natural Waterfall Views: Priced at $565,000, this meticulously maintained transitional colonial on four acres boasts a two-story family room with floor-to-ceiling windows, chef's kitchen, first-floor primary suite, and a private deck overlooking a natural waterfall.

Expansive farm investment opportunity: Listed at $1, this 112-acre farm in Middlefield offers two parcels: a turnkey 15.5-acre property with well-maintained buildings and a 96.87-acre parcel featuring tillable fields, woods, and a pond perfect for hunting enthusiasts.

🗓️ Happenings & Hoopla

🎵 May 22 - Maple Town Music Jam: Strum, sing, or simply soak in the sounds at Maple Town Tune Traders! Musicians and music lovers gather at Veterans Legacy Woods on May 22 for this community jam session welcoming all genres and instruments.

🇺🇸 May 23 - Memorial Day Weekend Celebration: Kick off summer at Thompson KOA Holiday this Memorial Day weekend! Just minutes from local wineries, enjoy craft time, coloring, and tie-dye activities on May 23. Purchase a wristband for additional kids' fun.

🌾 May 24 - Chardon Farmers' Market: Savor the flavors of Willow Farms at Chardon Market on May 24! Stop by 100 Short Ct St for fresh sourdough, loaded focaccias, homemade treats, farm eggs, and wellness juices.

☕ May. 24 - Coffee Shop Grand Opening: Grab your mugs! Thompson's newest coffee spot unveils its freshly renovated space on May 24th at 6714 Madison Rd. Be among the first to experience Coffee and Bakery Day's grand opening celebrations!

🌙 May 24 - New Moon Yoga Beginners: Stretch into something new at the New Moon Yoga Workshop! Perfect for beginners or those returning to practice, this 90-minute session introduces foundational poses on May 24 at 131 Wilson Mills Rd, Chardon.

🪖 May 24 - Civil War Weekend: Step back in time at Century Village Museum's Civil War Encampment! Experience battle reenactments, daily life demonstrations, and pancake breakfasts on May 24-25, with a special Friday night bonfire and fireside music.

🥃 May 25 - The Whiskey Charmers: Sway to the soulful sounds of The Whiskey Charmers at Bummin' Beaver Brewery on May 25! Catch this captivating performance in Chagrin Falls starting at 5:00 PM for an evening of enchanting melodies.

🙏 In Remembrance

Gus Gleske

Brother Gus Gleske, a member of Plumbers' Union Local No. 55, has passed away. Family will receive visitors on Thursday, May 22nd from 4-8PM at Gattozzi & Son Funeral Home in Chesterland, Ohio. A Mass of Christian Burial will be held the following day, Friday, May 23rd, at 10AM at St. Helen Catholic Church in Newbury, Ohio. Following the service, interment will take place at Riverview Cemetery, as announced by Shawn Gray, Business Manager of the union.

Sister Regina Davala

Sister Regina SND, formerly Sister Mary Glenda, passed away on May 12, 2025, at age 77, after dedicating 58 years to the Sisters of Notre Dame congregation. She was the daughter of the late Nicholas and Martha Davala, and is survived by seven siblings, while her sister Pamela preceded her in death. The Mass of Christian Burial will be held on Friday, May 23, 2025, at 11:00 a.m. at the Sisters of Notre Dame Center in Chardon, Ohio, with visitation beginning at 9:30 a.m. The service will be live-streamed, and memorial contributions may be directed to the Sisters of Notre Dame.

Kenneth Lester "Kenny" Vought

Kenneth "Kenny" Lester Vought, 61, of Newbury, Ohio, passed away on May 18, 2025, at UH Geauga Medical Center. A 1982 graduate of West Geauga High School, Kenny built a 35-year career as a heavy equipment mechanic and landscaper, known for his exceptional craftsmanship and generous spirit in creating beautiful outdoor spaces for family and friends. He enjoyed outdoor activities and cooking for loved ones, often hosting gatherings filled with laughter and good company. Kenny is survived by his mother Carol, his companion of 35 years Jackie Lang, his siblings David, Dan, and Beverly, as well as nephews, a niece, and great-grandnieces.

Charles Ray Knotts

Charles Ray Knotts, age 85, passed away on May 3, 2025, in Chardon, OH, leaving behind a legacy of hard work and family values. After marrying Kathryn Briggs in 1977, he dedicated his life to supporting his family of five children while working as a stationary engineer at various companies until retiring at age 74. Chuck was known for his wood carving talents, love of camping and reading, and his passion for Cleveland sports which allowed him to share special moments with family. He is survived by four sons, six grandchildren, four great-grandchildren, and extended family, while being preceded in death by his wife Kathryn, daughter Karen, and other family members.

Donna J. Cordaro

Donna Cordaro (née Dipierro), 78, passed away after being the beloved wife of Joe for 59 years and a loving mother to her four children: twins Donna Marie and Anna Marie, Carla, and Joseph Edward. She was a devoted grandmother to four grandchildren, Matthew, Andrew, Avery, and Brody, as well as a cherished daughter, sister, sister-in-law, aunt, and friend. Family will receive visitors at DeJohn Funeral Home in Chesterland on Thursday between 4-8 PM, with a Mass of Christian Burial on Friday at St. Clare Catholic Church, followed by cremation. In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made to Hospice of the Western Reserve.

Joanne Francis Perkovich

Joanne F. Perkovich, 82, passed away on May 16, 2025, in Chardon, OH, after a life characterized by her loving nature and generous spirit. Born in Utica, NY, she had a fulfilling career as a librarian with Mentor Schools and volunteered extensively at TriPoint Medical Center. Family was central to Joanne's life, including her husband John, their three children, and four grandchildren whom she cherished. Her diverse interests included camping with the Euclid Campers Club, pet adoption, photography, and genealogy, leaving behind a legacy of warmth and kindness that touched countless lives through both her professional work and volunteer service.