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SHARE–A–CHRISTMAS

This year we had a record number of donations for our Share–A–Christmas program. Through your generosity 68 households were assisted.

Thank you to Jim and Kim Hammond, Holly Bunt, Western Reserve Racing, employees of the Conservancy for the CVNP, Bill and Nancy Clifton, Peninsula United Methodist Church, Mother of Sorrows Catholic Church, Dan, Janice, and Pam Schneider, for food, monetary donations, gift cards, and gifts. Thank you Mark and Cathy Anson for help with sorting and assembling boxes. Extra thanks to Captain Mike Packard and Lieutenant Craig Moledor for moving and sorting everything in the meeting room twice. Three people spent the bulk of a week sorting and moving food. Thanks to my husband, Tom, and Dan and Joanne Palicka. On the packing up end of this, thanks to Charlene Cooper, Paul and Michele Kaczmarski, Dan and Joanne Palicka, Jerry Ritch, Randy Bergdorf, Bill Clifton, and Tom Germain. Below you will see pictures of events as they happened as well as explanations as to the happenings.

The trustees, Randy Bergdorf, Bill Clifton, and I thank you all and wish you a happy and healthy 2021.
- Amy Anderson

On December 12, 2020 Valley Fire participated in a fill the squad event at Costco in Boston Heights. The pictures below represent some of the items in the squad and the township meeting room.

Thank you to the folks at Costco for allowing us to hold the event. Thank you to Captain Packard and Lieutenant Moledor for their organizational skills. Volunteering their time were Chief Charlie Riedel, Lieutenant Craig Moledor, Lieutenant Matt Levitt along with sons Connor and Collin, Joe McVey, and Jim Paulett. Jay Skolnik and Ryan Zapora helped while on Duty. In addition to the non-perishable items customers donated $567.00, $250.00 came from the Fire Association and the firefighters donated $500.00.







Sorting gifts and food from left, Jerry Ritch, Randy Bergdorf, Charlene Cooper, Bill Clifton, Tom Germain, Joanne and Dan Palicka, In front, Paul and Michele Kaczmarski.

Pictured below on the delivery side: Jim Paulett, Dave Morehouse, Ben Hellming, and Kevin Paulett.


Special thanks for assistance in delivering everything were Valley Fire members Lt. Nick Sebastian, Retired Assistant Chief Dave Morehouse along with his brother-in-law, Ben Hellming visiting from Georgia, Joe McVey, Jim Paulett, and his son Kevin, and John Gordon. Dennis Pongracz and Jeremy Milford from Peninsula Police Department also helped.

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BOSTON TOWNSHIP

The township minutes are posted on our website at www.bostontownship.org and outside the fiscal office at the Boston Township Hall. . Meetings are covered by the West Side Leader. Trustee meetings are the second and fourth Wednesday of the month. Zoning commission meets the second Tuesday of the month and the Board of Zoning Appeals meets the fourth Tuesday of the month.

Zoning Update: After a considerable amount of time of Township Zoning Inspector John Schneider working with the property owners, the three structures located at 5130 Akron–Cleveland Rd. were demolished over the New Year`s weekend. Circa 1960, the property was purchased by Majestic Homes and three model houses were built. Only one of the houses was ever completed enough to be inhabitable. The now vacant property is currently listed for sale. Jay Littler has been appointed as the Alternate to the township`s Board of Zoning Appeals. Should there be a member absent, the Alternate can take their place. The trustees are still looking for an Alternate to the Zoning Commission.

Road Department: In 2021 the township will be receiving a new Freightliner plow and maintenance truck for the Road Department. The truck has been secured through the Volkswagen diesel settlement program. The new truck will cost approximately $120,000 with approximately $80,000 coming from the Volkswagen settlement. The net cost to the township will be approximately $40,000. Both Road Superintendent Dave Krusinski and Deputy Fiscal Officer Catherine Anson worked diligently on this grant opportunity.

Part–time Help: The township is looking for part–time help with the Road Department in the near future. In order to be prepared, we are asking anyone with an interest to contact Road Superintendent Dave Krusinski at (330) 657–2600. We are not seeking resumes at this time, but Dave will be able to answer questions about what the position will entail.

Property Reappraisals: The trustees have been receiving questions about the recent reappraisals that property owners have been receiving from Summit County. The last time reappraisals were done, the township requested a community meeting with the staff of the Summit County Fiscal Office. Due to COVID restrictions, such a meeting is not possible this time. Residents who have questions about their new home values are encouraged to contact the Summit County Board of Revision where property owners can request a hearing to discuss the new valuations. A completed DTE–1 form (Complaint Against the Valuation of Real Property) must be received by the Board of Revision by March 31, 2021. For more information, call the Board of Revision at (330) 926–2559 or visit the Fiscal Officer`s website (https://fiscaloffice.summitoh.net/).

Condolences: The trustees offer their condolences to the family of former Peninsula mayor Edward G (Jay) Ruoff who passed away on January 3 at age 94. Jay served as mayor of Peninsula from 1988 through 1995.

WEBSITE: Visit our Website at www.bostontownship.org to find up–to–date Township information. Contact numbers for the trustees: Amy Anderson: 330–657–2439, Randy Bergdorf: 330–655–5698, and Bill Clifton: 330–657–4032. Fiscal Officer: Pam Schneider at 330–657–2059; Road Department: Dave Krusinski at 330–657–2600; and Zoning Inspector: John Schneider at 330–657–2601 or 234–900–9145.

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PENINSULA VILLAGE

Village Council held an Electronic Meeting Format for a Public Hearing immediately followed by the Regular Council Session via Zoom Meeting. A Public Hearing was held December 14, 2020 at 7:00 pm on Ordinance No. 21–2020: An Ordinance amending Title 11 of the Codified Ordinances constituting the Village Planning and Zoning Code immediately followed by Council`s Regular Session.

Council passed the November 9, 2020 Regular Council Meeting Minutes.

Council passed Ordinance No. 21–2020 An Ordinance amending Title 11 of the Codified Ordinances constituting the Village Planning and Zoning Code.

Council passed Resolution No. 23–2020 A Resolution authorizing the Mayor to renew the Village`s Employee Health Insurance Agreement with NFP Corporate Services through the Summit County Health Connection for the 2021 Calendar Year.

Council passed Resolution No. 25–2020 A Resolution designating Solicitor Bradric Bryan as the Public Records ACT Training Designee for 2021 for Mayor Daniel Schneider, Jr., and Councilpersons Michael J. Kaplan, Richard Fisher, Jr., George Haramis, John Krusinski, Christopher Weigand, and Daniel Schneider, Sr.

Council passed Resolution No. 27–2020 A Resolution authorizing the Fiscal Officer to establish a Village County Coronavirus Relief Grant Fund in order to receive and account for Federal Cares Act Funds received from the County of Summit.

Council passed Resolution No. 28–2020 A Resolution authorizing final Amendments, Transfers, and/or Revenue Adjustments to the 2020 Appropriation Resolution.

Council passed Resolution No. 29–2020 A Resolution to make temporary appropriations for current expenses and other expenditures of the Village for the period from January 1, 2021 through March 31, 2021.

Council passed Resolution No. 30–2020 A Resolution authorizing the Mayor and Fiscal Officer to renew the Village`s Agreement with the Legal Defender`s Office of Summit County, Ohio for indigent representation in the Stow Municipal Court.

Council passed Ordinance No. 31–2020 An Ordinance amending the Village Parking Violations Bureau Fine Schedule.

Council passed a Dispatch Service Agreement with the Village of Richfield to provide 24–hour, seven days per week dispatching service for the Peninsula Police Department.

Mayor Schneider reminds everyone brush pickup is done for the year and will resume the first of May 2021.

Mayor Schneider also reminds everyone that if you are planning to remodel your home, new roof, install a fence or retaining wall you will need a building permit. Please call 330–657–2151 for more information.

Reminder to our residents, that it is your responsibility to keep your ditches and driveway culverts clear.

Village Council met in an Electronic Meeting Format for the Regular Council Session Via Zoom Meeting January 11, 2021.

Council appointed Councilperson Daniel Schneider, Sr. as President Pro–Tempore of Council. After being elected President Pro–Tempore of Council, Councilperson Schneider appointed the following Council Liaisons:
Finance – Richard Fisher, Jr.
Police Department – Daniel Schneider, Sr.
Roads and Public Works – George Haramis
Buildings and Grounds – John Krusinski
Chamber of Commerce and Economic Development – Christopher Weigand Policies and Procedures – Michael Kaplan

The December 14, 2020 Regular Council Meeting Minutes were passed.

Mayor Schneider and Council approved the appointment of Ms. Katie Iaconis as the new Village Fiscal Officer. Ms. Iaconis will begin work on January 12, 2021 replacing Fiscal Officer Trevor Elkins who resigned with his last day being January 11, 2021.

Council had their first reading on Ordinance No. 01–2021 An Ordinance amending section 139.10(g) of the Village`s Administrative Code relating to Auxiliary Police Officers. The Ordinance is moved to a second reading.

Council also had a first reading on Resolution No. 02–2021 A Resolution reappointing Bradric Bryan of Goodwin & Bryan, LLP as the Village`s Solicitor and Prosecutor for a term commencing on April 1, 2021 and ending on March 31, 2022. The Resolution is moved to a second reading.

Upcoming Meetings:
Planning Commission January 25, 2021 at 7:00PM Pending Electronic Meeting Via Zoom
Council Meeting February 8, 2021 at 7:00PM Pending Electronic Meeting Via Zoom

Contact Phone Numbers:
Administrative Office 330-657-2151
Non-Emergency Police & Fire 330-657-2911

Check the Website: www.villageofpeninsula-oh.gov

Nancy Holdsworth, Administrative Assistant

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BIRTHDAY WISHES

Special birthday wishes to Peninsula Police Chief, Joe Varga, who turned sixty years old on January 16, 2021.

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CONDOLENCES

On December 6, 2020 Dorothy Jean Butler passed away at the age of 93. Mrs. Butler was preceded in death by her husband Ronald. She is survived by her son, Rick (Margo Snider) and daughter, Debbie Gottas, as well as grandchildren David Thomas Gottas and Katie Lynn Gottas (Jimmy McGee).

Former Peninsula resident Jay Ruoff passed away January 3, 2021. Jay was a veteran of World War II (Marines). He served as mayor in Peninsula for two terms. Jay was preceded in death by wives Mona and Anna and daughter Kim Lyon Hallinan. He is survived by daughters Lees Ruoff, Jamie Strong, and Claire Karaz.

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PENINSULA AREA CHAMBER OF COMMERCE





We would like to thank the 25 households that entered our door decorating contest. Judge Marian Hite from the Peninsula Art Academy had a difficult time selecting the winner so she even selected three honorable mentions. Winning the great prize basket donated by local merchants and chamber members was the Perry Family (pictured above) at 1754 Main Street. Honorable mentions went to the Craig Family at 6086 Riverview (pictured below).



The Brunswick Family at 1550 East Mill Street (pictured below).



Sean Hensley at 6112 North Locust Street (pictured below)



Congratulations to all and who knows, perhaps this will become a new Village tradition!

The Peninsula Area Chamber of Commerce presented a Welcome Box to new resident Emily Sloven who lives on Main Street.

There are some other new sales, but either no residents living in the homes yet or names not listed in real estate section of paper.

Margo Snider

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PENINSULA LIBRARY

The Library is still operating on a modified curbside service. We are open Monday through Thursday from 9:00AM to 8:00PM. Friday and Saturday from 9:00AM to 5:00PM. If you are looking for a book, movie, magazine just give us a call, we may have on the shelf or we can order from another library for you. We appreciate your patience with us as we navigate the mostly uncharted path ahead. As we know more about our continued reopening plans, we will do our best to communicate them to you. If you have any questions about what the library is doing or how we may be able to assist you, please do not hesitate to contact the Library.

Library programs for adults and children will take place via Zoom. If you would like to participate, please email the library at info@peninsulalibrary.org and on the day before the program you will receive an email from us with the link to join Zoom. Please call at 330–657–2291 with any questions.

Preschool Story Time – Mondays at 10:00AM and Thursdays at 1:00PM.

February Joyology To Go Craft Kits for Adults
The February Joyology To Go Craft kit will be "The Key to My Heart" door/wall hanging. Reservations for the kit are required, please call the library or email us to get on the list. The kit will available for pick up beginning February 1.

Peninsula Library Book Clubs
Tuesday Evening Book Club – 2 Tuesday at 6:30PM via Zoom February 9 – A Place for Us. by Fatima Farheen Mirza
Wednesday Afternoon Book Club – 4th Wednesday at 1:30PM February 24 – A Place for Us. by Fatima Farheen Mirza


Cuyahoga Valley Historical Museum
1775 Main Street Peninsula, Second Floor

The Cuyahoga Valley Historical Museum Has Adjusted Hours! The Cuyahoga Valley Historical Museum reopened on October 10. After thoughtful consideration, the Museum will now be open on Thursday, Friday, and Saturday from Noon until 5:00pm until further notice. Visitation on Sundays was limited and was not the best utilization of staff. Visitation will be by appointment only with only two to three visitors at a time. All other social distancing and health protocols must be followed, especially regarding face coverings. In order to schedule a visit, please call (330) 657–2892 to choose a convenient time. Our staff will meet you at the entrance on the Riverview Road side of building and guide you to and from the Museum. Call now to schedule a time to learn about the history of our community at the Cuyahoga Valley Historical Museum!

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FAIRYTAIL OR TRAGEDY?

Those of us who lived in this area in the late 1970`s first heard about the coming of what was then called the Cuyahoga Valley National Recreation Area from the media. They described it in glowing terms.

According to them, the National Park Service was coming to protect our valley from being overrun with housing developments and malls. The park was projected to cover about 28,000 acres. It was estimated that only 26 to 30 homes would be taken, primarily located near the river, as stated in the congressional record.

We were told that scenic easements would primarily be used, instead of taking homes, to maintain the look of the area.

The park service also said that they wanted input from residents at public meetings to help them plan the park. Later we learned that this was the requirement of the congressional act that established the park, and not necessarily the idea of the NPS (National Park Service).

The newspapers, television, and radio were all excited about the creation of a new park, and our political leaders were also enthusiastic. On the other hand we residents had no experience with parks, except state and metroparks, which we thought were just great, so what`s to be concerned about?

We attended some of the public meetings, and there were a great many questions on our part, but few answers from the park representatives. It was after that that I learned that the public hearings were a mandate from congress, not the park service.

The reality is that the creation of the park was political. John Seiberling, our congressman, created it, and it was to serve as his legacy.

The mood was like "Christmas is coming!"

Then the tune changed. Homeowners started getting letters from the NPS saying that their property would be needed to serve the purposes of the park, and an appraiser would be contacting them to arrange a time for him to appraise their property.

I have seen some of these letters, and the owners were never asked if they wanted to sell. It was as though the matter was set, and it was just a question of what price they would receive.

As I was a member of the Cuyahoga Valley Homeowners and Residents Association, I got quite a few calls from frightened residents because our Association was dedicated to represent the residents. They also called Pat and Orville Morse, Lily and Frank Fleder, and Dave Hazelwood, who were also members.

I always asked first if they wanted to sell. If they said no, I asked if they had told this to the park service, and I suggested that they do that. They had questions.

Can I tell them that I don`t want to sell? Yes.

Can they make me sell to them? Yes.

An owner who was agreeable to sell had no problem hiring an attorney who would, for a fee, represent them, and negotiate a price with the park. His money came out of the purchase price. No big deal.

If, on the other hand, they were firm about not wanting to sell, they would need to hire a lawyer who was an expert on constitutional law. Lawyers like that don`t come cheap, and if the owners won their case, they would have to pay the attorney out of their own pockets.

All they could win is the right to keep their property.

Yes, the deck was stacked against them.

At my last count, the park had expanded to 32,000 acres. About 400 owners (not 26 to 28) lost their homes. Our tax base in the township is around ten percent privately owned, yet we maintain the roads, fire and police, and emergency rescue services. The park service gets a free ride.

Readers who are more recent arrivals need to understand the pain that we all felt, and honor the residents that had the courage to try to protect our right to keep our homes, our township, and our village.

It is part of your heritage, and something to be proud of.

Marty and Marilyn Griffith

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VALLEY FIRE

In December a new 2000–gallon Sutphen tanker was purchased. Delivery is expected in twelve to fifteen months.

Valley Fire has combination smoke/CO detectors, bed shakers (for hearing impaired residents), and residential Knox Boxes that are available. Knox Boxes hold keys to your residence that are only accessible by Valley Fire members should you be unable to open your door. If interested please contact the department at 330–657–2292 or VFDfireprevention@gmail.com.

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PENINSULA UNITED METHODIST CHURCH

Sunday Worship Services are taking place virtually via Zoom at 10:00AM. Please join us! For meeting/service information, call Lynn at (330) 931–9662. All are welcome!

Further updates will be posted on our website`s "upcoming events" tab at www.PeninsulaUMC.org.


At the request of the Trustees of Peninsula United Methodist Church, David Shankland was commissioned to create the above sculpture honoring Walter Beavin for his service to the church.

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PHOTOS NEEDED

Over the past four months I have been compiling information for a coffee table style book about Peninsula. Profits from the sale of this book will go to support of the Peninsula Library and Historical Society. Progress is moving quickly and at this time I am looking for any old photos you might have of buildings in Peninsula. These might be old family photos with the buildings in the background or old postcards. Please contact either myself or Randy Bergdorf randy.bergdorf@peninsulalibrary.org, 330 657 2665.

Barbara Gedeon 330 858 9720

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SERVICES

From the Editors: Have you used any of these services? We are asking for your feedback in rating them from one to five with five being excellent.

FOR RENT: Two office spaces are available for rent on the garden level of the Boston Township Hall in Peninsula. For additional information, please email info@bostontownshiphall.org or call 330–657–BTHC.

FOR SALE: Handwoven cotton dish towels from local weaver Joanne Noragon. Towels are all cotton, machine wash and dry. Size 17x22", a variety of colors. Contact me: Everythingoldisnew2019@gmail.com. To see and order: cuponthebus.blogspot.com. Choose the towel tab. To visit my studio and browse my stock, email me for an appointment.

TREE TRIMMING: Tree trimming, storm clean-up, general clean-up. Call Tom the Tree Guy at 330-760-4105.

SONSHINE CLEANING SERVICE: Residential (including Apartments), Commercial, Offices, Floors, Walls, Windows, Bathrooms, etc. $10 off first cleaning and $10 off for every referral that uses us. Three hour minimum please. Please contact Claudia Norris at (440) 915-9957. Local references available.

LICENSED ELECTRICIAN- Peninsula resident. Great rates/Quick service. Call Steve at 330-310-1061. Ohio license #El22934. YCN Rating 5 Star. Very good work, timely and good communications during the job.

COMPANION SERVICES: Are you a senior seeking senior companion services? Well, help is here. Call Kimberly for more details. 330-285-6962

REAL ESTATE SERVICES: Your hometown Real Estate agent, looking to buy or sell your home call us. Sylvia Tonhaeuser/ Robin Shrader Remax Trends 330-329-1851. No one knows Peninsula or Boston Township better.

PROJECT FEEDING KIDS: Find the best prices for every essential service, both residential and commercial while helping feed children in the community. We work with top brands, such as DirecTv, Dish, AT&T, Verizon, Sprint, gas, electric, and merchant services. Call Kelly at 330-203- 9713.

CARPET, RUG, UPHOLSTERY & TILE CLEANING: Citrus-based green cleaning system. Safe for children and pets. No residue and dries in a few hours. Offer 20% discount includes moving couch and chairs. Contact Sandy or Jim Sadens at 330-657-2113 CitrusGreenClean.com Email us at sadens.jim@gmail.com.
YCN reader rating of 5, multiple community comments.

NEED A HAND? CALL THE HANDYMAN! Bath resident, Joshua Kastelic 15+ years experience. Honest, Quality, On-Time 330-289-8181 thehandyman_can@rocketmail.com
YCN reader rating of 5, reporter has used this service multiple times.

PET SITTING IN YOUR HOME: For all your pet sitting needs, contact Precious Pets Sitting Service at 216-701-4181. Providing visits, midday walks, and overnight service since 1997. Rates start $15/day, insured/bonded, Veterinary Technician.

PHOTOGRAPHER: Your photographer neighbor. www.KelleyWeitzelPhotography.com For all photography needs.

LICKITY-SPLIT: Firewood, tree cutting and wood splitting. Call Scott Ensign at 330-657-2462.

ALEXANDER WATER: 330-923-0014.

CUSTOM PICTURE FRAMING: Award-winning custom picture framing since 1992, with framing consultations at your home or office, delivery and installation. Instruction with social media and marketing. Fine Art Services - Assisting artists, designers, corporate & residential clients in the selection, display and proper framing of art. 330-657-2228.
YCN reader rating of: 5 Star Rating! I have used Carolyn to frame, reframe, and repair all sorts of art for me and she does a professional job.
YCN reader rating of: 5 Star Rating! Wonderful work and very creative. Highly recommended.

SAWMILL SERVICE: From firewood to tree removal, all the way to decks, porches, & more. We do it all, give me a call! Wells Construction/S & S Sawmill, Seth, (330) 352-0210.
YCN reader rating of 5, reporter very pleased with services.

FOR SALE: End Tables and Coffee Tables. Eye-Catching, Locally Sourced Hardwoods. Handmade in Boston Township. Visit StudioJoe.us.

DOG TRAINING/SERVICES: Whether you need help training your dog or help getting your dog out while you`re away, call Tim Dent 4 Dogs, LLC (330) 212–1181 or email timdent4dogs@gmail.com. Reasonable rates. YCN reader rating of 5.