For over a century, audiences have delighted in the music, dance, and drama that is The Nutcracker. This year marks the 33rd annual presentation of the beloved holiday tradition performed by Ashland Regional Ballet (ARB). The dancers will take the stage at Ashland’s Archer Auditorium, on the campus of Ashland High School, on Saturday, December 14th at 2:00pm & 7:30pm; and Sunday, December 15th at 2:00pm. Tickets are available at ashlandregionalballet.com/ticket-information.
The full cast boasts 104 dancers from the Ashland/Mansfield area and surrounding counties. Principal roles will be danced by members of Ashland Regional Ballet with the role of Clara being portrayed by Tara Tavallaee of Ashland. Guest dancer, Larry White, will dance the role of Clara’s Nutcracker Prince. Megan Harrigan of Ashland will appear as the Sugar Plum Fairy.
Ashland Regional Ballet members in other principal roles are Lyla Metzger as Snow Queen, Audrey Smith as Trepak, Sam Metz as Shepherdess, and Asher Robbins and Lyla Metzger as Tea duet. Valerie Raubenolt will perform the role of Flower Queen with Teagan Kime and Audrey Smith as her Flower Attendants. Lucy Ronk will take on the role of Arabian, Teagan Kime and Adra Herod will dance a Spanish duet, Milo McDonald will dance as the Jester, and Mary Hamilton, Madelyn Shenberger and Sami Crist will portray the Candy Cane Principles.
Other ARB company members to appear include Jordyn Thomas, Dylan MQuate, Gianna Sinchock, Alysia Benedek, Kinsley Kline and Emersyn Metheney.
Theatre professional, Jeff Haffner will rejoin the cast this year as Herr Drosselmeyer while Dr. Bruce Sliney and ARB alumna, Jackie Zorich, will return to their roles as Dr. and Mrs. Stahlbaum, with Abbigale Crist of Ashland as Fritz. Opus II Dance Studio Director, Ann Marie Benshoff-Todd, will portray Nanny and Artistic Director, Sarah Cyders, will appear as Grandma Stahlbaum. Dr. John Moser of Ashland will narrate the beloved ballet and ARB Alumni Mark Koehler will portray The Rat King. Sydney Box and Alyssa Obertanec will reprise their roles as adults in the Party scene.
In addition to the wonderful dancing by Ashland Regional Ballet company members, the production is supported by an exceptionally strong cast comprised of Opus II Dance Studio students who bring excitement and energy to this timeless classic.
The production features original choreography by ARB Founder/Executive Director Hellie Schussler, staged by Sarah Cyders and Ann Marie Benshoff-Todd. Lighting design is by Don Pontious and set design by Robbie Keplar, and Costumes by Margaret Minick-Blake, Kepler, Loree Ronk, and Donna Benshoff.
Founder and Executive Director, Hellie Schussler notes, “Each Nutcracker season brings new joys and challenges. In 1992, on the 100th anniversary of Tchaikovsky’s holiday favorite, ARB presented its first production of the full-length ballet and has performed it annually ever since. It seems impossible that we are now celebrating our 33rd Nutcracker season. The Nutcracker has become a tradition for our dancers, as well as for many families in our area. We look forward to seeing new faces in the time-honored and familiar roles, as well as the joy of watching our artists grow from year to year in roles they have come to love. This production of The Nutcracker feels like coming home for Christmas. We invite you to come home to the Ashland Regional Ballet Nutcracker.”
Tickets can be purchased at ashlandregionalballet.com/ticket-information.
First Assistant Michael Donatini Honored with 2024 Meritorious Assistant Prosecuting Attorney Award
Ashland County Prosecuting Attorney Christopher R. Tunnell is proud to announce that First Assistant Prosecuting Attorney Michael Donatini has been awarded the 2024 Meritorious Assistant Prosecuting Attorney Award by the Ohio Prosecuting Attorneys Association (OPAA). The award was presented on December 12, 2024, during the OPAA Annual Meeting. This prestigious recognition honors Donatini’s dedication, professionalism, and exceptional contributions to the Ashland County Prosecutor’s Office.
Donatini, who joined the Prosecutor’s Office in 2008 and was promoted to First Assistant Prosecuting Attorney in 2022, primarily handles civil matters; representing county elected officials, offices, townships, and boards. He provides critical legal guidance, drafts numerous legal opinions annually, and adeptly resolves complex issues. Despite his significant civil responsibilities, Donatini also contributes to the office’s criminal caseload, frequently stepping in to handle hearings, trials, and other assignments as needed. As First Assistant, he is involved in a variety of internal office functions such as human resource and budget-related tasks.
“Michael Donatini is a cornerstone of our office,” said Prosecuting Attorney Christopher R. Tunnell. “He has demonstrated an unparalleled commitment to excellence. His work on behalf of Ashland County’s elected officials, townships, and boards is remarkable. Whether managing his extensive civil caseload or assisting with criminal matters, Michael brings professionalism and dedication to everything he does.”
Judy C. Wolford, Pickaway County Prosecuting Attorney and Chairperson of the OPAA Awards Committee, commended Donatini’s achievements, stating, “Michael Donatini exemplifies the highest standards of public service. His unwavering dedication to lending a hand in all aspects of the prosecutor’s office showcases his versatility and commitment to justice. The OPAA is honored to recognize his outstanding contributions to the legal profession and the community.”
Lou Tobin, Executive Director of the OPAA, also praised Donatini’s service, noting, “Michael’s consistent excellence and dedication to public service embody the core values of our association. His contributions significantly enhance the integrity and effectiveness of the legal system in Ashland County.”
Donatini is widely respected for his reliability, problem-solving skills, and willingness to support his colleagues. Tunnell emphasized that Donatini’s everyday approach to his work makes him stand out. “While some awards recognize one major achievement, Michael’s ‘big thing’ is his consistency and excellence over time. His unwavering dedication to our office and community makes him truly deserving of this recognition.”
This award reflects Donatini’s steadfast commitment to justice, and his invaluable service to Ashland County. The Prosecutor’s Office proudly celebrates this well-earned honor and applauds his continued contributions to the community.
The OPAA is dedicated to supporting and advancing the work of prosecuting attorneys throughout Ohio. The Association promotes the fair and effective administration of justice while recognizing the exceptional efforts of those who contribute to the field.
Ashland Officer Injured in Wal-Mart Parking Lot Crash
Ashland, OH – A routine day turned dire for the Ashland Police Division on December 11, 2024 at 10:12 a.m. when a call came in reporting an officer down and bleeding in the Wal-Mart parking lot. Officers, Detectives, and Ashland Fire Department & EMS responded to the scene, only to discover one of their own, Officer Abe Neumann, had been involved in the incident.
According to a witness, the incident began as Officer Neumann’s cruiser turned right off Amberwood Pkwy heading eastbound toward Wal-Mart near Buffalo Wild Wings. The witness reported seeing Neumann slumped to one side inside the vehicle. The cruiser then veered into oncoming traffic, striking the rear corner panel of an eastbound vehicle. Afterward, the cruiser reportedly accelerated, crossing a cement divider into the Wal-Mart parking lot and T-boning a parked car.
Ashland EMS transported Officer Neumann to the trauma center at Ohio-Health Mansfield Hospital. He has since been released and is recovering at home from facial injuries.
The Ashland Police Division declined to comment on the situation, stating that the Ohio State Highway Patrol is still investigating the crash.
Family members believe the crash may have been the result of a medical incident, though no official cause has been confirmed.
Drugs and or Alcohol were not a factor in the crash.
The Ohio State Highway Patrol’s Ashland Post continues to investigate the circumstances of the crash.
COLUMBUS- The Ohio House of Representatives concurred with the Ohio Senate this week on the Never Alone Act, sponsored by State Representatives Melanie Miller (R-City of Ashland) and Beth Lear (R-Galena).
House Bill 236 passed with a unanimous vote of 89-0 in the Ohio House. The legislation ensures every patient has access to an advocate to be with them in a hospital, nursing home, or other congregate care setting – especially during a health emergency.
“I am grateful for the support of my colleagues in the General Assembly for their support of the Never Alone Act,” said Miller. “We are one signature away from ensuring that we are able to protect the rights of patients to have access to a loved one or advocate to act on behalf of their best interest while in a hospital or care facility.
Specifically, the Never Alone Act:
Requires a congregate care setting to inform a patient or resident that the patient or resident may designate an individual to serve as an advocate and to provide the patient or resident the opportunity to make a designation.
Prohibits a congregate care setting from 1: denying a patient or resident access to an advocate and 2: prohibiting an advocate from being physically present with a patient or resident.
Prohibits a political subdivision, public official, or state agency from issuing an order or rule, or enforcing on behalf of the federal government a federal order or rule, that would require a care setting to violate the bill’s provisions.
Requires the Department of Health to create a Never Alone information sheet and each congregate care setting to provide each patient or resident with a copy at the time of admission.
The Never Alone Act now heads to the Governor’s desk and awaits his signature.
Ashland Police Execute Search Warrant, Leading to Drug Bust and Arrest
After I received a tip/request on the News Line requesting information about the presence of Ashland Police Division Officers on Troy Road, and the removing of a trailer, here was what I was able to find out. APD confirmed a search warrant was execution and I was able to uncovered the following details.
Ashland, Ohio – On Tuesday, November 26, 2024, the Ashland Police Division executed a search warrant at a residence located at 1007 Troy Road. The operation, conducted as part of an ongoing investigation into local drug trafficking, resulted in the seizure of a significant quantity of illegal substances, counterfeit money, and a firearm with its serial number removed. The raid also led to the arrest of Broc McKinney, a resident with a lengthy criminal history.
Details of the Search
Detectives from the Ashland Police Division discovered and confiscated the following items during the search:
Counterfeit Money: $2,467 in fake U.S. currency.
Drugs: A large bag of methamphetamine, two medium-sized bags of methamphetamine, one small bag of methamphetamine, and two bags of marijuana.
Firearm: A Ruger EC9S handgun with its serial number filed off.
Drug-Related Equipment: Two digital scales with residue, a white jar containing crystal powder, a glass jar filled with zip-lock bags, and assorted drug paraphernalia.
Technology: Two mobile phones, including an iPhone and a Samsung device, believed to be used for drug-related communications.
Charges Against the Suspect
The suspect, identified as Broc McKinney, was formally charged with the following:
Count One: Aggravated Possession of Drugs under Ohio Revised Code 2925.11(A) and 2925.11(C)(1)(c). This charge, a second-degree felony, pertains to McKinney’s possession of approximately 77 grams of methamphetamine, a Schedule II controlled substance. The amount exceeds five times the bulk amount but is less than fifty times the bulk amount.
McKinney’s criminal record reveals multiple prior convictions, including offenses for drug trafficking, domestic violence, and receiving stolen property. He appeared in court on November 27, 2024, where Magistrate Paul T. Lange declared him indigent and appointed Attorney Zachuary Meranda as his legal counsel.
Bond Hearing and Court Orders
During the bond hearing, Assistant Prosecuting Attorney Matthew Metcalf emphasized the severity of the charges and McKinney’s prior convictions. Metcalf noted the presence of a firearm and approximately 135 grams of methamphetamine found in a lockbox during the search. Magistrate Lange set the bond at $100,000, accompanied by strict conditions:
The defendant must not leave Ohio without written court approval.
The defendant is required to undergo random drug and alcohol testing.
McKinney must seek and participate in a drug and alcohol assessment program within 14 days of posting bond.
He must enroll in GPS monitoring with a curfew from 9:00 p.m. to 6:00 a.m. at his approved residence.
The defendant is prohibited from visiting any Wendy’s restaurant or contacting Trevor Larsen, an individual associated with the case.
A deposit for GPS monitoring equipment and fees is mandatory before release from custody.
Failure to comply with these conditions could result in bond revocation and immediate arrest.
The successful execution of this search warrant demonstrates the Ashland Police Division’s dedication to disrupting drug trafficking operations within the community.
McKinney’s next court appearance is scheduled for January 2, 2025, at 1:30 p.m.,
City of Ashland Faces Overnight Water Outage Amid Emergency Repairs
Ashland, Ohio — December 10, 2024
City of Ashland workers are preparing for a long night as crews tackle a major water main break affecting the west side of the city. Residents in several neighborhoods will experience water outages starting this afternoon, with restoration expected by tomorrow morning if all goes as planned.
The main water line break occurred on the far west side of the Ashland Cemetery, across a creek near the back end of Southview Drive. City crews are gathering equipment at Southview Drive and Arthur’s Court to begin shutting off the main water line servicing the affected areas. Water service is scheduled to be turned off at approximately 3:30 PM today, December 10.
Affected Areas According to a Facebook post from the City of Ashland, the following streets will be without water during the outage:
Arthur’s Court
Priscilla Lane
Winthrop Lane
Overlook Drive
Plymouth Lane
Hickory Court
Elmarna Avenue (dead-end side)
Fairview Drive
Abbie Lane
Maybe more…..
Additionally, areas surrounding Brookside Park, Hickory Court, Williamsburg Court, and Thomas Drive may also experience interruptions.
Repair Timeline: City crews are expected to work through the night to repair the damaged water main. The city anticipates water service will be restored by tomorrow morning, December 11, pending successful completion of repairs.
City’s Message to ResidentsIn its statement, the City of Ashland expressed appreciation for residents’ patience during the emergency repair. “Thank you for your understanding as we make this critical repair,” the city’s post read.
For updates, residents are encouraged to monitor the City of Ashland’s official Facebook page and other local communication channels.
Stay tuned for further updates on this developing situation.
Single-Vehicle Rollover Accident in Ashland County Sends Two to Hospital
Ashland County, OH – A single-vehicle rollover accident on State Route 545 sent two Shelby, Ohio residents to the hospital with serious injuries this afternoon.
Emergency responders from the Ohio Highway Patrol, Ashland County Sheriff’s Office, Savannah Fire & EMS, along with Ashland EMS were dispatched to the scene at 913 State Route 545 at 4:12 p.m.
According to a witness, 42-year-old Joshua Hamilton was driving a 2014 Ford Focus northbound on State Route 545 when he attempted to pass another northbound vehicle. His car veered off the left side of the highway, reentered the road, and then crested a hill. Upon seeing an Amish buggy ahead, Hamilton overcorrected, causing the car to swerve off the right side of the road, return to the pavement, and going back off the right side of the road, ultimately roll multiple times striking a culvert before coming to rest.
Hamilton’s passenger, 22-year-old Veronica Jones, was also in the vehicle at the time of the accident. Both Hamilton and Jones were transported to Ohio-Health with injuries described as serious.
The Ohio Highway Patrol is investigating the crash, and no charges have been filed at this time.
Northern Ohio Violent Fugitive Task Force Seeks Public Assistance in Locating Four Fugitives
Mansfield, OH – The Northern Ohio Violent Fugitive Task Force is seeking the public’s help in locating four fugitives and is offering rewards for information leading to their capture. The individuals are wanted for a range of serious offenses and have ties to Mansfield, Ohio, and other locations.
Fugitives at Large
Akil Gordon, 26
Gordon is wanted by the U.S. Marshals Service and the Mansfield Police Department for domestic violence. He is described as a Black male with black hair and brown eyes, standing 5 feet 9 inches tall. Gordon has ties to Mansfield and Fort Lauderdale, Florida.
Harold Lindsay, 34
Lindsay is wanted by the U.S. Marshals Service and the Richland County Sheriff’s Office on charges of illegal conveyance. He is described as a Black male with black hair and brown eyes, standing 5 feet 8 inches tall, with ties to Mansfield.
Richard Keaton, 62
Keaton is sought by the U.S. Marshals Service and the Richland County Sheriff’s Office on a strangulation charge. He is described as a Black male with black hair, blue eyes, and a height of 5 feet 9 inches. Keaton also has ties to Mansfield.
James Sheron, 45
Sheron is wanted by the U.S. Marshals Service and the Richland County Sheriff’s Office for felonious assault. He is described as a Black male with brown hair, brown eyes, and a height of 5 feet 11 inches. Sheron has connections to Mansfield.
How to Provide Information
Anyone with information on the whereabouts of Akil Gordon, Harold Lindsay, Richard Keaton, or James Sheron is urged to contact the Northern Ohio Violent Fugitive Task Force.
Call: 1-866-4WANTED
Text: Send the keyword “WANTED” and your tip to 847411 (tip411)
Tipsters can remain anonymous, and reward money is available for credible information that leads to arrests.
Ashland County Launches 2025 Dog Licensing Season Amid New Initiatives
Ashland, OH – This week marks the launch of the 2025 dog licensing season, an essential annual effort that funds the operations of the Ashland County Dog Shelter. To highlight the importance of this program, several local leaders, including Interim Kennel Manager Shannon Hamilton, Ashland County Commissioner President Denny D. Bittle, and Ashland County Sheriff’s Office Deputy and Dog Warden Curtis Hall, gathered to renew their own dog licenses and discuss the shelter’s progress and initiatives.
Why Dog Licensing Matters
Deputy Curtis Hall emphasized the significance of dog licenses, noting that the shelter heavily relies on licensing fees to fund its operations. “It’s the law, but more importantly, it directly supports the shelter,” Hall explained. “Licenses provide resources for the shelter to care for dogs, reunite them with their owners, and find new homes. They’re vital for our community’s public safety and the welfare of these animals.”
Hall also highlighted the enforcement aspect of licensing, stating that while the focus remains on education, citations are sometimes necessary. “We’ve made progress; from July to November, over 500 dog licenses were issued due to our outreach efforts,” Hall said. “People were respectful, and it was rewarding to connect with the community.”
As of now, 975 licenses have been sold for 2025, with a goal to exceed the 9,147 licenses issued in 2024.
Successful Adoptions and Partnerships
Hamilton shared encouraging news about adoptions and collaborations. “Since March, we’ve facilitated nearly 90 adoptions and reunited countless dogs with their families,” she said. “We’re also restarting a program with Mansfield Correctional Institution, where inmates help train shelter dogs with minor behavioral issues. This partnership improves the dogs’ adoptability and provides meaningful rehabilitation opportunities for the inmates.”
Commissioner’s First Experience
Commissioner Denny D. Bittle humorously recounted his first time personally purchasing a dog license. “My wife always handled this, but this year, I had to figure it out on my own,” he laughed. “It’s a small but important investment in the shelter’s operations.”
Bittle praised the shelter’s team and its modernization efforts, including improved facilities and processes. “The work Shannon and Curtis have done is remarkable. They’ve transformed the shelter into a model operation,” he added.
Looking Ahead: Foster Program and Modernization
Deputy Hall announced plans to launch a foster program in 2025 to reduce stress for shelter dogs. “We aim to place dogs in foster homes while keeping them adoptable through the shelter,” he explained. “It’s a modern approach that benefits the dogs and the community.”
The shelter is also stepping up efforts to address cases of animal abandonment. “We’re committed to identifying and prosecuting those who dump dogs,” Hall said. “Modernizing our operations means not only improving care but also enforcing accountability.”
A Personal Note: Deputy Hall’s Retired K-9
Hall shared updates about his retired K-9 partner, Dani, now officially his personal dog. “Dani’s enjoying retirement, though he still wants to work whenever he sees the cruiser,” Hall said. “He’s earned his time to relax, but he’s still as sharp as ever.”
2025: A Year of Growth and Progress
With strong leadership, innovative programs, and community support, Ashland County Dog Shelter is poised for a successful year. “2025 is going to be a transformative year for us,” Hall concluded. “We’re modernizing, improving, and building something the community can be proud of.”
House Fire in Ashland County Turns Out to Be Self Set
Ashland County, OH – What was initially reported as a house fire on Township Road 1104 this morning took an unexpected turn when responders discovered the blaze was part of an unconventional demolition effort.
The Ashland County Sheriff’s Office, along with fire departments from Ashland, Savannah, Polk, and Nankin, responded to the scene after reports of a structure fire. Upon arrival, authorities found that the fire had been intentionally set by a group of Amish men who were demolishing the house and had allegedly used fire as a quick method to remove the structure.
Officials have confirmed the fire is under investigation. Citations are expected to be issued by local authorities, and a report will be sent to the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) for potential additional charges related to environmental violations.
Local authorities have reminded the public of the importance of following proper procedures and obtaining permits for demolitions. Updates on this case, including potential penalties, are expected as the investigation unfolds.
No injuries have been reported in connection with the incident.
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Joe Lyons •
December 13, 2024
