Wooster – The Ohio State Highway Patrol, in conjunction with the Wooster Police Department and the Wayne County Sheriff’s Office, announced today that an OVI checkpoint will be held from 8PM to 11PM tonight on State Route 585 in Wayne County.
The OVI Checkpoint, funded by federal grant funds, is planned to deter and intercept impaired drivers.
The checkpoint will also be held in conjunction with nearby saturation patrols to aggressively combat impaired driver-related injury and fatal crashes.
If you plant to consume alcohol, designate a driver or make other travel arrangements before you drink.
Don’t let another life be lost by the senseless and selfish act of getting behind the wheel impaired.
Ashland, OH – The Ashland County Solid Waste Management District is gearing up for its highly anticipated third annual Farm Tire Collection Event, set to take place on August 27, 2024, at the Ashland County Fairgrounds. This initiative, designed exclusively for registered Ashland County farmers, aims to facilitate the disposal of old farm tires in an environmentally friendly manner.
Jim Skora, District Coordinator with the Ashland County Solid Waste Management District, emphasized the importance of the event, noting, “We’re excited to continue our commitment to environmental stewardship with this event. We want to make sure farmers have an easy and affordable way to dispose of their old tires.”
The event will run throughout the day at the fairgrounds’ main gate, and pre-registration is mandatory. Farmers must register by August 23, 2024, to secure their appointment time. Registration can be completed by calling 419-282-4338 or 330-603-0138.
Tire Disposal Costs and Guidelines
This year, the event will offer tiered pricing based on tire size and type:
Passenger and Light Truck Tires: $2.00 each
Semi-Truck and Small Implement Tires: $5.00 each
Large Tractor and Combine Tires: $10.00 each
All tires must be removed from rims prior to drop-off. Farmers bringing more than ten tires will receive a special letter from the health department to ensure smooth transport during the event.
The costs this year reflect a shift from previous years due to changes in funding. Unlike the past two years, where a flat fee was charged due to an Ohio EPA grant, the current tiered pricing covers the cost of contractor services and transportation.
Event Details
Location: Ashland County Fairgrounds, Main Gate, 2042 Claremont Ave, Ashland, Ohio
Date: August 27, 2024 (Rain or Shine)
Eligibility: Ashland County farmers only (No drive-ins accepted, pre-registration required)
Payment: Cash or check payable to Ashland County Treasurer
Acceptable Tires
Off-the-Road: $10.00 each (Tractor, Combine, Loader, Skid Steer, Wagon, Implement)
Semi-Truck: $5.00 each (Semi Truck and Trailer)
Passenger/Light Truck: $2.00 each (Pick-Up Truck, Bicycles, 4-Wheeler, Side by Side, Golf Cart, Motorcycle)
Non-Acceptable Tires
Rubber tracks, business and agricultural enterprises, schools, government entities, tire dealers/resellers, non-profit organizations, and non-Ashland County farm tires.
Recycling Commitment
All collected tires will be handled by Willie Tire Recycling in Crawford County, a zero-landfill facility dedicated to recycling and reusing materials. The company ensures that all tires are processed for beneficial use, including the extraction of steel, nylon, and rubber, which are then repurposed into various products or used as fuel.
For further information or to register, contact the Ashland County Solid Waste District at 419-282-4338 (office) or 330-603-0138 (cell).
Note: The Ashland County Solid Waste District is a department under the Ashland County Commissioners, and their continued support is integral to the success of these community-focused events.
Ashland, Ohio—The Copperheads Motorcycle Club’s Ashland chapter is preparing for their annual World Meeting, a significant event that draws members from across the globe. I had the opportunity to meet with Todd Grim, President of the Ashland chapter, at Fin Feather Fur Outfitters in Ashland, where the club was gearing up for the gathering.
“We are a well-established, spread-out club,” Grim explained. “We have five chapters across Ohio and many others throughout the United States, as well as internationally in England, Scotland, Canada, and the Cayman Islands.” This year, Ohio is the proud host of the world meeting, and members from various chapters are convening in Ashland before heading to Columbus, where the event will take place over the weekend.
A Brotherhood Beyond Borders
The Copperheads Motorcycle Club is unique in its composition and mission. While it is a law enforcement motorcycle club, membership is not limited to law enforcement officers. “We accept first responders, corrections officers, court officers, attorneys, magistrates, veterans, and active military,” Grim noted. “We even allow a small percentage of non-qualifying members who don’t fit into these categories but are still interested in joining the club.”
This inclusivity highlights the club’s commitment to serving those who serve. The Copperheads’ primary mission is to raise funds to support law enforcement officers who are injured in the line of duty or, in tragic cases, to assist the families of officers who have fallen.
A Legacy of Support
Each chapter of the Copperheads Motorcycle Club engages in various charitable activities beyond their core mission. For the Ashland chapter, this has included raising money for abused and neglected children—an issue close to Grim’s heart due to his professional background. “We each do our own things on top of the overall club goal,” Grim explained.
A key event for the club this weekend is the Terry McDowell Memorial Ride, an annual tribute to Officer Terry McDowell, a Whitehall Police Department officer who was tragically killed in the line of duty in 2001. The ride, which raises funds for law enforcement and their families, is open to anyone, not just club members. “We picked this date for our world meeting so all the Copperheads can be involved in the ride,” Grim said.
Changing Perceptions
Grim is keenly aware of the stereotypes often associated with motorcycle clubs, and he is quick to differentiate the Copperheads from the outlaw image. “We’re pretty much the exact opposite,” Grim emphasized. “We’re first responders and police officers who enjoy helping the communities we live in. We want people to realize that when they see us.”
The Copperheads Motorcycle Club is dedicated to being a positive force in the communities they serve. Their mission statement reflects this commitment: “The singular focus of the Copperheads Motorcycle Club is to support and assist all law enforcement, military, public safety, and their families during times of need.”
As the club prepares for this weekend’s events, they continue to embody their motto—heroes serving heroes—through their actions and their dedication to supporting those who protect and serve.
ASHLAND – Ashland County Community Foundation recently awarded 20 Women’s Fund Grants to support and empower women in Ashland County.
The following organizations received grants totaling $48,342:
Appleseed Community Mental Health Center received a grant to purchase laundry services/supplies and dry-cleaning services for people with mental health conditions (and their children) in Ashland County.
Ashland County Women of Achievement received a grant to empower local women by hosting an event featuring the founder of Auntie Anne’s Pretzels.
Ashland Special Needs Ministry received a grant to support program expansion, through digital media, marketing and fundraising.
Ashland Symphony Orchestra received a grant inspire young audiences by performing a female composer’s piece at the School Day and Young People’s Concerts.
Firelands Ambulance Service Volunteer Association received a grant to purchase three pediatric/obstetrical emergency responder kits.
Loudonville Church Women, Inc. received a grant to help women in the Loudonville-Perrysville School District have access to menstrual hygiene and incontinence products.
OhioHealth Foundation received a grant to purchase a special sexual assault camera for the OhioHealth Ashland Health Center/Emergency Department.
Pathfinder Farms received a grant to support program development and outfit the new female program with needed equipment.
Rape Crisis Domestic Violence Safe Haven/Appleseed received a grant to help with the cost of painting parts of its Transitional Shelter building to create a welcoming environment for survivors and preserve the house for future survivors.
Relationships Under Construction received a grant to continue providing relationship education to students in Ashland County schools.
Snuggled in Hope Quilts-Ashland Chapter received a grant for its Ashland Creative Comfort Project, to purchase materials/equipment needed to make the comfort items.
Soma Somatics Made Accessible received a grant to fund group mindfulness/stress-reduction programs, yoga classes and one-on-one mind-body (lifestyle) coaching for women transitioning out of supportive housing programs.
Transformation Network received a grant to provide seed money for their community-wide Celebrate Recovery program.
United Church Residences of Ashland Ohio Inc. (Mill Run Place) received a grant to make over the lobby of Mill Run Place.
The following organizations were awarded proactive grants from our board to help with tuition assistance for families in need: Ashland Family YMCA, Christ United Methodist for Milestones Learning Center, Park Street Preschool, Salvation Army Kroc Center Learning Zone and Olive Tree Care. Olive Tree Care also received a proactive grant from the Dr. JoAnn Ford Watson Donor Designated Fund to help with general operating expenses.
Ashland— The Ashland Future Farmers of America (FFA) Chapter is excited to announce the start of their annual Mum Fundraiser, running from Wednesday, August 14th through Saturday, August 31st. This popular event features a vibrant selection of six colors of annual mums—red, orange, yellow, pink, purple, and white—each grown by dedicated Ashland FFA members.
The mums are priced at $10 each or $27 for a set of three, making it an affordable way to beautify your garden while supporting a great cause. Proceeds from the sale will benefit the chapter by funding various activities, Career Development Event registrations, and enriching the experiences of over 250 FFA members.
To purchase mums, interested parties can reach out to any Ashland FFA member or contact the chapter via Facebook at Ashland FFA Chapter and Ashland FFA Alumni Association, or email ashlandffa2024@gmail.com.
Show your support for the Ashland FFA and add a burst of color to your garden with these beautiful mums!
For more information, contact:
Facebook: Ashland FFA Chapter and Ashland FFA Alumni Association
MARGARETTA TOWNSHIP – The Ohio State Highway Patrol is investigating a serious injury motorcycle crash that occurred on August 13, 2024, at approximately 11:06 P.M. at the intersection of Mason Road and State Route 269 in Margaretta Township, Erie County.
Micah L. Plemens, age 29, of Tiffin, Ohio was operating a 2008 Harley-Davidson. Trinity R. Robinson, age 30, of Republic, Ohio, was the passenger of the motorcycle. Mr. Plemens was driving westbound on Mason Rd east of SR 269.
Mr. Plemens failed to maintain control while approaching the intersection, overturned, traveled through the intersection of Mason and SR 269 and struck a barbed wire fence before coming to rest.
The driver and passenger were both ejected from the motorcycle and both were not wearing a helmet. Both the driver and passenger sustained serious injuries as a result of the crash and were both taken by Life Flight to St. Vincent Medical Center.
Alcohol and drug use are unknown and no charges have been filed at this time. The crash remains under investigation.
The Ohio State Highway Patrol was assisted on scene by Margaretta Twp Fire & EMS, Erie County Sheriff’s Office, and Sandusky Towing.
ASHLAND, OH — As students across Ohio prepare to return to the classroom, school districts are emphasizing the importance of school bus safety. With the new school year approaching, ensuring the safety of students who travel by bus is a top priority for the state.
Since 2019, Ohio has reported 6,145 traffic crashes involving school buses, including eight fatal incidents, one of which resulted in a student’s death while on a bus. In light of these statistics, state officials are urging all drivers to review and adhere to school bus safety laws.
Governor Mike DeWine stressed the collective responsibility required to protect school bus riders. “Bus safety isn’t just the responsibility of the bus driver,” DeWine said. “Other drivers, parents, and students all have a role to play.”
Ohio School Bus Traffic Laws
Motorists must be aware of specific rules when encountering a school bus:
Two-Lane Roads: All traffic in both directions must stop at least 10 feet from a stopped school bus and remain stationary until the bus resumes movement or the driver signals that it is safe to proceed.
Four-Lane Roads: Vehicles traveling in the same direction as the bus must stop when the bus is stopped to pick up or drop off passengers. Traffic from the opposite direction is not required to stop.
Divided Highways: Similar to four-lane roads, only vehicles traveling in the same direction as the bus need to stop.
Failure to comply with these laws can result in significant penalties. Violations may incur fines up to $500 and could lead to license suspensions. Notably, drivers charged with passing a stopped school bus must appear in court and cannot settle the matter with a waiver.
Safety Tips for Parents and Motorists
For Parents and Caregivers:
Arrive at the bus stop early and stand at least 10 feet away from the road.
Wait for the bus to come to a complete stop and the driver to signal before boarding.
Ensure clothing and backpacks are free from dangling objects that could get caught.
Always walk in front of the bus and be visible to the driver.
For Motorists:
Always stop for a school bus with flashing lights and extended stop-arm.
Yellow lights signal the bus is preparing to stop; red lights mean it is time to halt.
Never pass a bus on the right side where children enter or exit.
Stay alert for children near bus stops and avoid distractions while driving.
The goal of these measures is to protect the lives of young passengers, who are most vulnerable during the crucial moments of getting on and off the bus. For additional information on school bus safety and illegal passing, visit NHTSA’s School Bus Safety page.
As the new school year begins, let’s ensure that every child gets to and from school safely.
The Northern Ohio Violent Fugitive Task Force is offering a reward for information which would lead to the capture of fugitive Allando Grose. Grose is wanted by the U.S. Marshals Service and the Richland County Sheriff’s Office for attempted murder. Grose, 33, is described as a black male with brown hair and brown eyes, standing 6 feet 3 inches tall. Grose has ties to the cities of Mansfield, Cleveland, and Columbus.
Allando Grose
The Northern Ohio Violent Fugitive Task Force is offering a reward for information which would lead to the capture of fugitive Dorrien Smith. Smith is wanted by the U.S. Marshals Service and the Adult Parole Authority on a probation violation on the original charge of aggravated robbery. Smith, 45, is described as a black male with brown hair and brown eyes, standing 6 feet 4 inches tall. Smith has ties to the city of Mansfield.
Dorrien Smith
The Northern Ohio Violent Fugitive Task Force is offering a reward for information which would lead to the capture of fugitive Tracy Baker. Baker is wanted U.S. Marshals Service and the Richland County Sheriff’s Office for possession drugs. Baker, is described as a white female with blond hair and blue eyes, standing 5 feet 4 inches tall. Baker has ties to the cities of Mansfield and Edison OH.
Tracy Baker
The Northern Ohio Violent Fugitive Task Force is offering a reward for information which would lead to the capture of fugitive Jose Flores. Flores is wanted by the U.S. Marshals Service and the Richland County Sheriff’s Office for rape. Bowens, 45, is described as a Hispanic male with black hair and brown eyes, standing 5 feet, 11 inches tall. Flores has ties to the cities of Mansfield, Bakersfield CA, and Fernley NV.
Jose Flores
If you have any information in reference Allando Grose, Dorrien Smith, Tracy Baker, or Jose Flores, please contact the Northern Ohio Violent Fugitive Task Force at 1-866-4WANTED or Text keyword WANTED and tip to 847411 (tip411). Tipsters can remain anonymous and reward money is available.
The Ashland County Park District will be holding its annual Deer and Waterfowl Hunting Lottery on Wednesday, August 21, 2024, at Freer Barn, located at 1264 Center Street, Ashland, OH. Doors will open at 5:00 PM, with the first draw for deer starting at 6:00 PM, followed by the waterfowl lottery.
Entry into the lottery is $10 per person, cash only. The event will also feature a Youth Lottery, which is free of charge. Parents or guardians may enter their youth hunters into the Youth Lottery on their behalf, provided they have proof of license. However, youth hunters who wish to participate in the general lottery must be present at the event—no exceptions.
For more information, please contact the Ashland County Park District office at 419-289-3524 or visit their website at www.ashlandcountyparks.com.
Ashland, OH – August 7, 2024 – In a recent interview, Mayor Matt Miller provided updates on several key projects and initiatives shaping the future of Ashland. Fresh off a busy city council meeting, Mayor Miller shared details about new business developments, property acquisitions, community support initiatives, and upcoming events.
E-commerce Giant Purchases Industrial Land
Mayor Miller kicked off the conversation by discussing the special city council meeting held last night, despite the usual August recess. “We have so many important projects happening right now in the city,” Mayor Miller said. “We called a special meeting to address them.”
One of the highlights was the sale of 22.4 acres in the city’s industrial park to a Fortune 500 e-commerce company. The land, located just north of Wells Rd. with frontage on US 250, was sold for $20,000 per acre, totaling $448,000—the highest price ever received for industrial park land. The company plans to build a regional hub, with construction expected to begin soon and completion anticipated by mid-next year.
Acquisition of the Frontier Building
The city also decided to purchase the vacant Frontier building on Main Street. The building, which has been empty for over two decades, contains vital equipment for Frontier’s network in its basement. “We felt it was important to get that building into local hands,” Mayor Miller explained. The city aims to rehabilitate the building and attract new businesses to the downtown area.
Support for ACCADA
In a unique move, the city purchased a vehicle for the Ashland County Council on Alcoholism & Drug Abuse (ACCADA). The purchase was funded by money received from legal settlements with pharmaceutical companies involved in the opioid epidemic. “This vehicle will help ACCADA transport clients in recovery to appointments and other necessary locations,” Mayor Miller said, highlighting the city’s commitment to supporting those affected by drug addiction.
Street Resurfacing Plans
Addressing concerns about street resurfacing, Mayor Miller reassured residents that the work is scheduled to begin soon. “The contract is still in play, and you’ll probably see work start toward the end of this month or in September,” he said. Key areas to be resurfaced include Sandusky Street, parts of US 42, and several streets in the northeast quadrant of the city.
Mayor’s Golf Classic
Looking ahead, Mayor Miller expressed excitement about the upcoming Mayor’s Golf Classic this Friday. Now in its fourth year, the event raises funds for special projects at Brookside Golf Course. “Thanks to the generosity of our community, we are on track to break our records for revenue this year,” Mayor Miller said. The event features prizes, including a vehicle from Bill Harris Chevrolet and $10,000 in cash, as well as a meal and other festivities.
As Ashland continues to grow and develop, these initiatives underscore the city’s commitment to economic development, community support, and quality of life improvements for its residents.
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Joe Lyons •
August 16, 2024
ASHLAND, OH — As students across Ohio prepare to return to the classroom, school districts are emphasizing the importance of school bus safety. With the new school year approaching, ensuring the safety of students who travel by bus is a top priority for the state.
The Northern Ohio Violent Fugitive Task Force is offering a reward for information which would lead to the capture of fugitive Allando Grose. Grose is wanted by the U.S. Marshals Service and the Richland County Sheriff’s Office for attempted murder. Grose, 33, is described as a black male with brown hair and brown eyes, standing 6 feet 3 inches tall. Grose has ties to the cities of Mansfield, Cleveland, and Columbus.
The Northern Ohio Violent Fugitive Task Force is offering a reward for information which would lead to the capture of fugitive Dorrien Smith. Smith is wanted by the U.S. Marshals Service and the Adult Parole Authority on a probation violation on the original charge of aggravated robbery. Smith, 45, is described as a black male with brown hair and brown eyes, standing 6 feet 4 inches tall. Smith has ties to the city of Mansfield.
The Northern Ohio Violent Fugitive Task Force is offering a reward for information which would lead to the capture of fugitive Tracy Baker. Baker is wanted U.S. Marshals Service and the Richland County Sheriff’s Office for possession drugs. Baker, is described as a white female with blond hair and blue eyes, standing 5 feet 4 inches tall. Baker has ties to the cities of Mansfield and Edison OH.
The Northern Ohio Violent Fugitive Task Force is offering a reward for information which would lead to the capture of fugitive Jose Flores. Flores is wanted by the U.S. Marshals Service and the Richland County Sheriff’s Office for rape. Bowens, 45, is described as a Hispanic male with black hair and brown eyes, standing 5 feet, 11 inches tall. Flores has ties to the cities of Mansfield, Bakersfield CA, and Fernley NV.
