The 51st Annual Kelleys Island Homecoming was one for the books, filled with heartfelt moments, delicious traditions, and a strong sense of community pride.
This year’s celebration held special meaning as we honored the life of longtime islander and friend, Chuck Schodowski. His wife, June, and their family rode proudly in the parade, a touching tribute to a family whose love for Kelleys Island has left a lasting legacy.
June Schodowski was overwhelmed by the support she felt throughout the day which was themed to celebrate her husband’s career. She expressed thanks that so many family members were able to attend Homecoming this year. Marilyn was delighted to be in the parade and Mark’s portrayal of Chuck’s “Certain Ethnic” character was spot on. It was a wonderful day to honor Chuck’s accomplishments and his love of the Island.
Mayor Ron Ehrbar read a proclamation declaring Homecoming Saturday August 9, 2025 as “Big Chuck” Schodowski day. (See proclamation and photo on Page 8 ).
Speaking of tradition, the last surviving KILA founder Barb Coleman was present as were her children L to R: Tim, Bob, Jim, Liz, Bill, Jr. Jim is still active in KILA and serves on our Board of Directors. It was announced that Barb would be named the first Board Member Emeritus this fall at the KILA annual meeting taking place September 20th, 2025.
Homecoming parade this year included both the Milan Edison Chargers and Crestline Bulldogs high school marching bands, along with a unit of Cushman scooters from Lorain
and unicyclists from the Toledo area. A number of folks brought their golf carts and other contraptions to the parade and were judged primarily on their honoring of the memory of Big Chuck. In third place was an entry by the State Park volunteers, second place was Mr. Green’s sound machine in the back of a Cushman mini truck.
In first place from “high on the top of Channel 8’s transmitting tower, Son of Kong” brought to us by the Truthan family. (See more parade photos on page 21)
Fish Fry Report:
It was a sunny, hot, beautiful evening for the fifth annual fish fry. Again, all 200 tickets were sold out a week before the event.
The back story:
The pavilion was lovely with checkered table cloths and gorgeous flowers arranged by Vicki Finnegan.
The fryers were crackling with hot oil as Joel Byer readied them to cook the delicious fish. Steve Miller’s amazing new big corn pot was boiling.
Janet Killam; Barb Zeller; Leslie Algase; Debbie and Bryan Plonski; Kit Kilen; Holly Miller; and Robin Schwartz were busy preparing the fish.
Sweet smells wafted from the dessert table where Cindy and Bill Leonard were plating servings of fruit cobblers.
The front line:
Linda Williams served the kids their hot dogs while Jim Zeller manned the buttery sweet Puckins corn on the cob. Stacy Notestine dished the creamy cole slaw for everyone and Melanie Bates places the half pound of piping hot fresh perch on each plate. Ray Washio headed the line collecting tickets and passing out plates.
The annual Pie Contest brought in nine entries this year — fewer than in years past, but no less sweet. A special welcome goes to newcomer Frankie, who joined the lineup of talented bakers.
Winners included:
• 1st Place: Jacquie Folk – Key Lime Pie-Life is Sweet
• 2nd Place: Virginia Coyne – Banana Cream Pie
• 3rd Place: Mandy Barlage – Tomato Pie, a crowd favorite
Behind the scenes, dedicated volunteers made the day possible. Special thanks to Candy Voltz, Debbie Duirk, and Monica Sislan for presenting, slicing, and boxing pies to sell at lunch. Your hard work kept the tradition alive.
Judges: Twila, Scott, Darlene, Roxane, Courtney and Ken the tallyman were all important pieces of the fun.
The Food committee, led by Jim Coleman, served up the traditional grilled hamburgers, hot dogs, and chicken. This year, a “Kielbasy Kid” special was offered; grilled kielbasa, sauerkraut (prepared by Caroline Jorski), and pierogi (prepared by Melanie Bates & Debbi Plonski).
Congratulations to KILA Raffle Winners:
1st Place: $ 2,500 Merle Hune
2nd Place: $ 1,000 Quinn Burnett
3rd Place: $ 500 Seara Dodson
4th Place: $ 250 Stephanie Voltz
5th Place $ 100 Matt Baker
Almost 90% of the raffle tickets were sold. The proceeds are used to fund projects that improve and enhance Kelleys Island.
A heartfelt thanks goes to KILA, the Homecoming Committees, local donors and every volunteer — especially those working over hot grills and the set up/takedown crews— for their dedication and flexibility in making sure the bands, vendors, and visitors had what they needed. It’s a labor of love that keeps this treasured island event thriving.
Upcoming KILA Events:
On Saturday September 20, KILA will hold the annual members meeting at 10:00 am at the school. It will consist of election of directors to the board, the annual President’s report, and a discussion of future KILA activities. Further, as part of this meeting, members will vote on recent bylaw changes the current board is proposing. A copy of those proposed changes is on the KILA website www.kila.rocks with the updates highlighted in red.
Saturday, September 20, 2025 at 1 PM will be the KILA sponsored Candidates’ Forum. This will be in the Estes school Gym. Candidates running for local elected positions on village council and school board will be invited to participate. Ballot issues/levies will also be explained. A “must attend” for all KI residents and especially registered voters.
The Family Hay Ride at the 4H camp is scheduled for Saturday, October 18th from 3-5 PM. While this is during the “Adult Halloween” weekend, this event is intended for families of children & adults. (See page 2) KILA, as a 501.c.3 charitable organization, is interested in improving and enhancing Kelleys Island. We ask that KI organizations or individuals with a specific project or initiative that will address this interest and wish for support from KILA, please submit a Request for Support to KILA. This support may be financial and/or through the efforts of our members and volunteers. For more information about requesting KILA support, please contact us at info@kila.rocks.
Please remember, it’s never too late to sign up for your KILA membership. One membership is allowed for each residence and dues are only $25 for new members or $20 for renewals. Joining KILA is a good way for new landowners to become involved in the KI community.
There are 3 ways to pay dues.
1). You can pay by check by sending it to:
Kelleys Island Landowners
Association
PO Box 22
Kelleys Island Ohio 43438.
2). You can also pay using the PayPal link at our website (www.kila.rocks). Click the “Join KILA” link at the top, scroll down and select New or Renew Membership and follow the instructions.
3). We can take payments using Zelle®. If you want to pay through this option, send to drew@kila.rocks.
We welcome your support, volunteering, donations, and suggestions for activities, projects, or initiatives to help KILA improve Kelleys Island.
We’re available via email to info@kila.rocks, our Facebook page www.facebook.com/kelleysislandlandowners, and our website www.KILA.rocks.
