Over 40 people from six local communities gathered to witness the swearing-in ceremony of elected officials at Koritansky Hall on Hiram College’s campus last Friday evening. Ohio Eleventh District Court of Appeals Judge John Eklund officiated the event; other notable guests included Portage County Commissioners Anthony Badalamenti, Sabrina Christian-Bennett, and Mike Tinlin.
At the event, Hiram Village Council President Chris Szell welcomed the newly-elected and re-elected officials. Szell took time to acknowledge the efforts of long-time public servants leaving office in January, noting that those in Hiram served for a collective 78 years, with Mayor Lou Bertrand serving in some capacity for forty years.
In one of his last public actions in 2023, Mayor Bertrand welcomed local officials to what he called “a celebration of their election”, something he noted was made possible by the men and women who fought for our country throughout the ages.
Hiram Christian Church Pastor and Hiram Councilman Christopher McCreight led the invocation, praying, “As we gather within this time of transition among leadership, we offer our gratitude for the service of the men and women who have faithfully fulfilled their duties of office.” McCreight acknowledged “gratitude for the women and men who have offered themselves to serve the public good,” asking blessings of wisdom, humility, courage and patience as they assume these new roles in their communities. USMC veteran and County Commissioner Anthony Badalamenti led the Pledge of Allegiance.
In his remarks prior to administering the oaths of office, Judge Eklund thanked those who were preparing to lead, urging them that as they strive to uphold local and state laws, to be mindful of a higher calling. He urged local officials to “strive to uphold and enhance people’s trust in government, such that people will have faith and confidence in our system of government.” He remarked that the officials, “are taking action to help provide liberty and justice for all.”
Those who took an oath of office included Garrettsville Mayor Rick Patrick; Mantua Mayor-elect Tammy Meyer; Hiram Village Councilman Ed Frato-Sweeney; Mantua Township Trustee John Festa; Nelson Township Trustee Michael Kortan; James A. Garfield School Board members Colleen Khairallah, David Vincent and Deral White; and Crestwood School Board members Eric Hummel, Bonnie Lovejoy, and Dan Tillet; and Mantua Village Councilman Kevin Maloney. The new terms for each individual begin on January 1st.
Before closing the proceedings, Judge Eklund commended Mayor Bertrand for his, “palpable impact” on his community for years, both in public office and as an attorney. “Well done, faithful servant,” he noted.
In his benediction, McCreight prayed newly elected officials would bring integrity to their individual offices, faithfully represent those they serve, and be humble enough “to seek the counsel and wisdom of others.”
