Home / Newsletters / Ohio / Geauga County / June 26, 2025

🏫 Second act seniors

Geauga County • June 26, 2025

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Good morning, Geauga County. Talk about a second act! The former Jordak Elementary School is getting an impressive transformation as Ohman Family Living turns educational hallways into senior living spaces for $2.2 million. The vision includes converting the gymnasium into pickleball courts and potentially turning the cafeteria into a restaurant—proving that sometimes the best new community spaces come from reimagining what we already have.

Meanwhile, history and hospitality converge at the 213-year-old Rider's Inn, where owner Elaine Crane is seeking new tenants after regaining control of the Painesville landmark. Her upcoming "Phoenix Party" on June 28-29 offers a rare peek inside the recently restored facility. On the education front, the state's school funding debate continues to simmer, with advocates pushing for implementation of the Fair School Funding Plan while highlighting the growing allocation for private school vouchers—a financial tug-of-war that reflects competing visions for Ohio's educational future.

🌤 Sky Skoop

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☕️ What's Brewing Locally

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🏫 Old elementary school gets new life as senior living hub. Ohman Family Living purchased the former Jordak Elementary Building in Middlefield for $2.2 million, planning to transform it into a hybrid community rec center and independent living facility for seniors. The building, located just 1/8 mile from Ohman's new rental cottages, will feature amenities like pickleball courts in the gymnasium and potentially a restaurant in the former cafeteria. Future plans include adding apartments on the top floor to enhance independent living options. This expansion aligns with Ohman's vision of creating a complete care residential community while maintaining the small-town charm of Middlefield.

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💰 Ohio's budget battle reveals deep divisions over school funding priorities. Former statehouse staffer Rachel Coyle told Geauga Democrats that the state budget exposes lawmakers' true values through spending choices. The controversial school funding system, ruled unconstitutional since 1997, remains a central fight as legislators debate implementing the bipartisan Fair School Funding Plan. Coyle criticized the growing allocation of nearly $1 billion for private school vouchers while public schools struggle, particularly in rural areas. She urged citizens to pressure representatives to prioritize public education and restore local government funding that has been cut for over a decade.

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🏨 Historic Rider's Inn seeks new tenants after landlord-tenant conflict. Owner Elaine Crane has regained full control of the 213-year-old Painesville stagecoach stop after former restaurant tenant Kaela Alex closed operations. Crane is searching for someone to operate the restaurant/pub, retail space tenants, and an innkeeper for the four B&B rooms. Meanwhile, she's hosting a "Phoenix Party" on June 28-29 featuring attic treasures, vendors, food trucks, and tours of the recently restored facility. The historic inn remains closed except for this upcoming weekend event.

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🏡 Real Estate Reveals

Bank Auction Potential Deal: This foreclosure property has a list price of $0 and is being sold through Auction.com, where it may go for below market value. The website allows you to save properties and receive alerts about auction dates.
Real estate listing image Spacious Grove Street Middlefield home: Priced at $179,900, this charming Middlefield home on Grove Street offers spacious living areas, a convenient breezeway connecting to the garage, and small-town charm with move-in ready comfort.
Real estate listing image Expansive countryside retreat near falls: This 4-bedroom home in Chagrin Falls, listed at $649,000, features an open floor plan with primary suite, office, hearth room, entertainer's basement, multi-tiered deck, and numerous 2022-2023 updates on a 2+ acre lot.

🗓️ Happenings & Hoopla

🎣 Jun. 26 - Open Fly Tying Night: Tie one on at 8th Day Brewing Company! Join Ohio BHA and OWOTF for a FREE fly tying night on June 26, 7:30-9PM in Chagrin Falls—all skill levels welcome.
🎸 Jun. 27 - Concert: Pieces of Eight: Groove to the rocking sounds of Pieces of Eight at Chardon Square's gazebo on June 27 at 7pm. Bring your lawn chair and appetite as food trucks serve up tasty treats throughout the evening.
🎸 Jun. 27 - WGRC Summer Concert Series: Rock out under summer skies at WGRC Rocks! Back in the Day. Catch FREE live, local music at WG Rec Camp (8611 Cedar Rd, Chesterland) on June 27 – definitely not your grandma's park concert!
🛍️ Jun. 28 - Handmade Market: Browse unique treasures at the Happier Outside Handmade Market on June 28! Local artisans showcase their crafts in the charming outdoor setting of 6741 Madison Rd, Thompson. Perfect for finding one-of-a-kind gifts!
🧑‍🌾 Jun. 28 - Geauga Fresh Farmers Market: Farm-fresh goodness awaits at Geauga Fresh Farmers Market! Stop by 5205 Chillicothe Road in South Russell on Saturday, June 28 from 9am to noon for local produce and handcrafted treasures.
🥩 Jun. 28 - Ribeye Steak Dinner: Savor a sizzling ribeye steak dinner at Mary Yoder's Amish Kitchen on Saturday, June 28th! Your plate comes complete with a baked potato and your choice of side salad at 14743 N State Ave, Middlefield.
🔨 Jun. 29 - Blacksmith Annual Conference: Forge your way to the Western Reserve Artist-Blacksmith Association Annual Conference at Century Village Museum on June 29! Watch metalworking masters demonstrate their craft in this fiery celebration of traditional blacksmithing.
🏕️ Jun. 29 - First Chance Camp: Adventure awaits young campers at First Chance Camp! Join the fun at Blue Rock Christian Camp in Thompson, OH from June 29-July 2 for four days of summer memories and new friendships.

🙏 In Remembrance

Dennis Lee "Denny" Wildman

Dennis "Denny" L. Wildman, 78, of Mesopotamia, passed away on June 22, 2025. A Vietnam veteran who retired as Union President from GE in 2002 before driving a taxi for 20 years, Denny was known for his warm smile, storytelling, and willingness to help others in need. He loved working on vehicles with his son Dennis, mowing yards, and enjoying early morning coffee with friends at the End of The Commons. Denny leaves behind his wife of 25 years, Barbara, along with his son, stepchildren, grandchildren, and extended family members who loved him dearly.

Dennis Lee Denny Wildman

Theodorus Elliot "Theo" Detweiler

Theodorus "Theo" Elliot Detweiler, 22, died on June 22, 2025, after a three-year battle with cancer. Born prematurely on September 22, 2002, Theo was a passionate learner who graduated high school with two years of college credits and went on to study forensic psychology at John Carroll University. He pursued numerous interests with enthusiasm, including musicals, art, and beekeeping, and was known for his intelligence and generosity in tutoring others. Theo is survived by his parents, siblings, grandparents, and numerous extended family members, and will be remembered at a visitation on June 27, 2027, at Burr Funeral Home in Chardon, OH.

Theodorus Elliot Theo Detweiler

Mary S. Roberts

Mary S. Roberts, age 84, passed away on June 20, 2025, leaving behind her three daughters (Julia, Heather, and Brandi) and grandson Kyle. Born on May 28, 1941, to Michael and Anna Pavelka, Mary was known for her kind, generous nature and sense of humor that put people at ease. After graduating from Euclid High School in 1959, she worked as a sales representative, filing clerk, and proofreader, while enjoying reading, tanning at the beach, casino slots, music, and caring for animals. Mary was an avid Cleveland sports fan who loved the Cleveland Indians and was equally devoted to both the Pittsburgh Steelers and Cleveland Browns.

Mary S. Roberts

Eileen Clegg

The obituary announces the peaceful passing of an 87-year-old woman at her home in Chagrin Falls, Ohio, while surrounded by her family. She is remembered as a devoted wife and mother who centered her life around faith, family, and friendships. Those wishing to learn more about her "remarkable" life and funeral arrangements are directed to visit the Steinbauer Funerals website. The notice concludes with her apparent signature phrase, "Love ya, love ya, love ya!"

Eileen Clegg

Jacqueline M. "Jacquie" Foote

Jacqueline "Jacquie" Foote of Huntsburg passed away on June 21, 2025, at Ohman Family Blossom Hill Nursing Home. Born in Cleveland in 1937, she had a distinguished 40-year career teaching gifted sixth-grade students in Rocky River Schools after earning degrees in elementary education. She was married to Francis Chandler Foote for 56 years, with whom she built their dream home and established High Meadows Farm in Huntsburg. An active member of St. Patrick's Church, she founded the Good Samaritan Ministry and later worked as an editor for the Middlefield Post, leaving behind two daughters and five grandchildren.

Jacqueline M. Jacquie Foote

Albert "Al" Zarzour

Albert Zarzour, age 74, passed away recently, leaving behind a loving family including his three children Stephen, Sammy, and Camille, as well as nine grandchildren. He was preceded in death by his wife Nancy of 52 years, his parents Albert Sr. and Edna, and his brother Joseph. The family will receive visitors on Thursday, June 26, 2025, from 2-7 PM at DeJohn Funeral Home, with Prayers of Christian Burial at 7 PM, followed by a private burial on Friday at Knollwood Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, the family suggests contributions to St. Jude Children's Research Hospital in Al's memory.

Albert Al Zarzour
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