Joe Lyons

Ashland 2024 Trick-or-Treat Schedule: Safety First for Halloween Festivities

Joe Lyons • October 11, 2024

Ashland, OH — The City of Ashland has set its annual Halloween trick-or-treat event for Thursday, October 31st, from 5:00 PM to 7:00 PM, regardless of weather conditions. Families can prepare for an evening of fun, as children make their rounds collecting treats in neighborhoods throughout the city.

The City continues its tradition of holding trick-or-treating on the Thursday closest to Halloween, a decision made to avoid conflicts with Friday night high school football games and other weekend activities. The early evening time frame, from 5:00 PM to 7:00 PM, has been chosen with safety in mind.

“Even with reflective costumes and flashlights, the risk of accidents increases after dark. The earlier hours are set to ensure our children can enjoy a fun, safe experience,” city officials stated in a recent announcement.

To participate, residents are encouraged to turn on their porch lights as a signal to welcome trick-or-treaters. Those homes with porch lights off are to indicate non-participation. Trick-or-treaters are urged to respect these signals and follow safety guidelines throughout the evening.

This community tradition promises to deliver another night of Halloween excitement, with safety at the forefront.

State Route 511 Closure

Joe Lyons • October 11, 2024

State Route 511 Closure

ASHLAND COUNTY (Friday, October 11, 2024) State Route 511, from State Route 302 to just south of County Road 500, will close Friday, October 18 for three consecutive culvert replacements.

The first culvert is located just south of Township Road 754; the second culvert is located just south of Township Road 704; and the third culvert is located just south of County Road 500. Crews will begin work on culvert one and move north along State Route 511.

The detour route for all three culverts will be State Route 511 to State Route 302 north to U.S. 250 west to State Route 60 north to U.S. 224 east to State Route 511, and reverse.

Estimated completion: Friday, November 1, 2024

Trenton Michael Gallaway Laid to Rest Amidst Community Outpouring of Love and Respect

Joe Lyons • October 9, 2024

Lucas, Ohio — In a somber ceremony that drew an overwhelming number of Friends, Family, and Co-workers, Trenton Michael Gallaway was laid to rest today at Mt. Zion Cemetery, a touching tribute to a life tragically cut short. The 20-year-old, who worked for the Richland County Highway Department, lost his life in a heartbreaking accident on October 2, 2024, while performing road maintenance.

As the sun rose over the village of Lucas, the sight was striking: a sea of vehicles from the Ohio Department of Transportation (ODOT) and local county departments filled every available space, lining alleyways in a testament to the impact Trenton had on his community. Though many may not have known him personally, the sheer volume of attendees spoke volumes about the love and respect held for this young man.

The Ohio State Highway Patrol’s Mansfield Post reported that the tragic incident occurred when Trenton, outside of a Highway Department vehicle, was struck by a motorist attempting to pass on Bowman Street Road. Despite the immediate response from emergency services, Trenton succumbed to his injuries at the scene.

His obituary paints a vivid picture of a hardworking, passionate young man. Born on May 21, 2004, Trenton graduated from Lucas High School in 2023 and had quickly made his mark in the workforce. From humble beginnings as a farmhand at Culler Farms to securing a position with the Highway Department, he exemplified dedication and ambition, saving for his dream GMC Denali.

Trenton was not just a worker; he was a devoted member of Grace Bible Church, actively participating in youth groups and missions. His love for the outdoors—whether camping, hunting, or off-roading—showcased his adventurous spirit, while his close bond with family and friends revealed a loyal and caring heart.

“Trent was a man’s man,” one friend recalled, “always up for an adventure, but also someone you could rely on. He knew how to have fun and make you laugh, but he was fiercely protective of those he loved.”

He is survived by his parents, Michael and Jennifer Gallaway; brother Bo; sister Shanique; his sweetheart, Morgan Guegold; and numerous other family members and friends who will carry his memory forward.

The Gallaway family hosted visitation services at Lucas Grace Bible Church, followed by a funeral service officiated by Pastor Wayne Presnell. Trenton’s pick-up truck lead the procession to the cemetery, while the community reflects on the profound loss of a young life filled with promise.

In lieu of flowers, contributions in Trenton’s honor can be made to the American Traffic Safety Services or the National Road Safety Foundation, organizations that align with the values he held dear.

As the community comes together to remember Trenton Michael Gallaway, his legacy will endure in the hearts of all who knew him—a shining example of kindness, hard work, and the spirit of camaraderie.