Hiram – A few days before Christmas, several local officials were sworn in during a ceremony in Koritansky Hall at Hiram College. Cristine Boyd, Chief of Staff of the College welcomed officials to the campus, thanking those present for their service to the local community. Reverend Dr. Irvin Green, the Rector of the Hiram Christian Church, gave the invocation. “We come here as people of faith,” Dr. Green began, “if not religious, than faith in these individuals and the institutions they serve.” He concluded by asking God’s presence and guidance on them as they work together to serve the local communities.
The ceremony began with a pledge to the flag was led by 97-year-old Robert Miner, a WWII Veteran US Army Air Corps B-29 Bombardier-Navigator. Afterwards, Hiram Village Mayor Lou Bertrand congratulated retiring Village Administrator Robert A. Wood for his 42 years of service to the Village. Ohio Statehouse Representative Sarah LaTourette, Ohio Senator John Eklund, and US Congressman Dave Joyce also commended Mr. Wood for his many years of dedicated service.
Moving on, Congressman Dave Joyce officiated the swearing in of newly elected officials from Garrettsville, Mantua, and Hiram. From Garrettsville Village, Mayor Rick Patrick and Council members Jeffrey S. Kaiser and Debbie Wordell, and Clerk-Treasurer Nancy Baldwin took an oath of office. For Mantua Village, newly elected Council member Paula Tubalkain and returning Clerk-Treasurer Jenny August were sworn in. On behalf of Hiram Township, Trustee Jack Groselle and Fiscal Officer Diane Rodhe took an oath of office. For Hiram Village, Mayor Lou Bertrand and Council members Paul Spencer and Frank Hemphill were sworn in. “This is where the real work gets done,” remarked Congressman Joyce.
Garrettsville Mayor Rick Patrick shared, “ It’s an honor to have a State Representative, State Senator and US Congressman here, especially during this busy time of year.” Hiram Township Fiscal Officer Diane Rodhe added, “Its nice to be acknowledged.” Tom Wadkins, President of Hiram Village Council commented, “ This is the largest ceremony with the greatest number of dignitaries we’ve seen. It’s great to see so many folks from Northern Portage County gather together, and wonderful to make these local connections,” he stated. “And honoring Bob Wood was truly special,” Wadkins added. “In dealing with finances, storms, and security issues, he’s been a calm voice for the Village, and it’s good to see him honored.”
