Geauga County • September 2, 2025
Good morning, Geauga County. Acrobats soaring 20 feet above a pirate ship stage have transformed the county fairgrounds into a slice of the Caribbean. The Murcia family's high-flying spectacle has fairgoers gasping as performers navigate the "wheel of death," execute daring sword fights, and slide down ropes in a show that appeals to both wide-eyed children and thrill-seeking adults. Fair board vice-president Keith Chapman's commitment to fresh entertainment is certainly hitting the mark with this swashbuckling addition.
While one local landmark creates new memories, another fades into history. The Aspinwall Community Methodist Church demolition continues as workers carefully dismantle the structure to make way for five planned townhomes. In Shaker Heights, a different kind of transition is underway as Jeri Chaikin concludes her remarkable 24-year tenure as Chief Administrative Officer, leaving behind a legacy of financial stewardship and a family-like atmosphere among the city's 300 employees.
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🏴☠️ Pirates swing into Geauga County Fair with high-flying thrills. The Pirates of the Colombian Caribbean Ariel High Wire Thrill Show captivated audiences with acrobatics performed 20 feet above a giant pirate ship stage. Performers executed daring stunts on a "wheel of death," sword fights, rope slides, and aerial feats that appealed to all ages. The Florida-based Murcia family, who tour nationwide with their show, aimed to create an experience that blends imagination for children with thrilling acts for older audiences. Fair board vice-president Keith Chapman noted that bringing in fresh entertainment like the pirate spectacular is part of their commitment to offering fairgoers new experiences each year.
🏗️ Historic Methodist Church crumbles as townhomes await. Demolition of Aspinwall Community Methodist Church at 400 Center Ave. continues with a combination of hand removal and heavy machinery. The interior was already gutted and asbestos removed before demolition equipment arrived on August 25. Developer Tony Pompeo Jr. plans to build five townhomes on the site once demolition is complete in early September, though construction cannot begin until zoning variance requests are approved at a rescheduled hearing. The cleanup after demolition is expected to take several weeks.
👩💼 Shaker Heights' behind-the-scenes hero steps into the spotlight at last. After 24 years as Chief Administrative Officer, Jeri Chaikin received heartfelt tributes during her final city council meeting on August 25. Council members praised her organization skills, financial stewardship, and ability to create a "family" atmosphere among 300 city employees across a dozen departments. Chaikin, who managed the city's $84 million budget through multiple mayoral administrations, will continue as a special projects coordinator until her official September 30 retirement. Matt Carroll becomes only the third person to serve as CAO in more than 50 years.
Grand Entertainer To Be Built: This "to be built" home listed at $967,000 features a grand fireplace as the focal point in its vaulted great room, with an oversized kitchen and sunroom designed for families who enjoy entertaining.
Lakeside Community Four Bedroom Retreat: Priced at $420,000, this Lake Lucerne gem offers four bedrooms, two baths, and access to a private community with swimming, fishing, and sports—perfect for those who want vacation vibes year-round.
Luxurious wooded colonial estate: Priced at $659,500, this custom-built 4-bedroom colonial sits on 2.5 private acres in a quiet cul-de-sac, offering 9-foot ceilings, new hardwood floors, cherry kitchen, finished walkout basement, and a 2023 roof.
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