Marion – Troopers from the Marion Post continue to investigate a crash that occurred August 5, 2024, at approximately 2:09 PM, on US23 in Marion County.
The crash involved a 2015 Freightliner Cascadia semi-tractor trailer, driven by Abdulkhalif Mohamed Warsame, age 40, of Gahanna, Ohio. The second vehicle involved was a 2011 Harley Davidson Tri Glide Ultra motorcycle, driven by James P. Wetzel, age 79, of Marion, Ohio. The third vehicle involved was a 2019 Ford Taurus, driven by Jonathan T. Cathers, age 44, of Oregon, Ohio.
The preliminary investigation indicated Mr. Warsame and Mr. Wetzel were traveling northbound on US23 in the right lane. Mr. Cathers was traveling northbound on US23 in the left lane. Mr. Wetzel slowed to turn right to travel eastbound on Linn Hipsher Rd. (CR195). Mr. Warsame swerved to the right, traveled onto the paved berm, and struck Mr. Wetzel’s motorcycle. Mr. Warsame’s truck traveled off the northeast side of the intersection, struck a stop sign, and came to final rest in a ditch. Mr. Cathers vehicle struck debris from the crash.
Mr. Wetzel sustained serious injuries and was transported from the scene by Salt Rock EMS to Marion General Hospital. He was later flown to Grant Medical Center.
On August 6, 2024 Mr. Wetzel succumbed to his injuries and was pronounced deceased at Grant Medical Center.
Mr. Warsame and Mr. Cathers did not sustain any injuries.
The Ohio State Highway Patrol was assisted on scene by Salt Rock Fire and EMS, Marion Township EMS, Ohio Department of Transportation, Liverpool Towing and Kirby’s Towing.
The Muskingum Watershed Conservancy District (MWCD) is now accepting applications for the Nonpoint Source Implementation Strategy (NPS-IS) Development Fund. This newly created fund is intended to assist communities in developing a 9-element nonpoint source implementation strategy for watersheds within the Muskingum River Basin and implement them through conservation programs and projects, water quality issues, and flood reduction and mitigation projects.
Nonpoint source pollution does not come from a single, identifiable source, such as an industrial facility or residence, but instead is created collectively from multiple diffuse sources, such as agriculture or forestry, construction activities or even highways. Because the sources are difficult to pin down, it can be difficult to correct and, therefore, requires larger, community-wide strategies to effectively address.
A NPS-IS is a strategic planning document that summarizes the causes of nonpoint source water impairments and identifies projects to address them. Each watershed has its own unique list of issues, and each plan will be unique to properly address those issues. Most of all, an approved NPS-IS opens the door to funding opportunities through both state and federal organizations that are otherwise unavailable.
“This fund represents a significant step forward in supporting MWCD’s neighboring communities as they work to improve water quality and manage flood risks,” said Craig Butler, MWCD Executive Director. “By assisting with the development of these strategic plans, we are helping to lay the groundwork for long-term environmental and economic benefits throughout the Muskingum River Basin.”
The new fund aims to reimburse up to 75% of a community’s costs associated with developing a nonpoint source implementation strategy (NPS-IS), up to $9,000.00 per plan. The grant opportunity provides assistance to local agencies and groups involved in projects and programs that support the conservation and flood control aspects of MWCD’s mission as outlined in the Amendment to the Official Plan of the MWCD.
The deadline to apply is October 1, 2024. The application is available online at www.MWCD.org and can be emailed to Rome Marinelli, Watershed Coordinator at rmarinelli@mwcd.org.
Ashland, OH – The Ashland County Council on Aging has extended a heartfelt thanks to all Ashland County first responders by organizing a special event called the “Dog Days of Summer Free Grab & Go Lunch.” The event, set up under a little tent at 240 East Third Street, offers a complimentary lunch every Tuesday throughout August.
Sandy Enderby, the director of the Ashland County Council on Aging, shared the motivation behind the event. “Every Tuesday for the month of August here on 3rd Street, we have a drive-thru for our Public Safety services partners. We feel that we want to give back to the community and appreciate the ones who take care of us and protect us,” said Enderby. “So, we have a free lunch every Tuesday for the month of August. It’s a drive-thru between 11:30 and 1:00. They can come by, get a packed lunch, and be on their way. It’s just our way of giving back to our service guys and gals who put their lives on the line for us in our community. We do appreciate our first responders.”
The lunch includes a hot dog, a bag of chips, a cookie, and drinks, all served with a smile from volunteers. Among the volunteers is Shirley Jordan, who just celebrated her 90th birthday. Jordan, formerly known for her “Shirley’s Kitchen” at the Ashland County Fairgrounds, was the grill cook for the event, adding a touch of nostalgia and warmth to the occasion.
The Ashland County Council on Aging invites all first responders to take advantage of this small token of appreciation. The drive-thru lunch not only provides a quick meal but also serves as a reminder of the community’s gratitude for the unwavering dedication of its first responders.
Jill Matthes Baxter, director of Ashland University’s Doctor of Nursing Program and associate professor of nursing, was recognized as one of the 2024 Faces of Care by the Ohio League for Nursing (OLN). The six nurse educators honored as Faces of Care were celebrated during a gala event in June, presented by the OLN and Cleveland Magazine.
The nurse educators were selected for being standouts in their field who exemplify the mission of advancing excellence and serve as high-achieving role models in the state.
“To be featured in the Faces of Care was a wonderful surprise,” remarked Baxter. “I am in the company of so many wonderful nurse educators. To be considered in this group was humbling to say the least. Healthcare is in crisis, we are desperate for more nurses. I am honored to help educate these students. To be a part of their journey is one of the most rewarding jobs.”
In Faces of Care, Baxter’s passion for mindfulness as a teaching strategy was emphasized. She uses mindfulness concepts to reduce the stress of her nursing students, which in turn will help their future patients.
“Especially for children because we don’t want to start them on medications. If you can teach them coping strategies and how to deal with their emotions they’re experiencing, it’s much more effective,” Baxter told the publication.
“If you’re able to help the students, and they’re also helping the patients, it’s kind of a full circle,” she added.
Baxter has been a faculty member at AU since 2016. While leading the DNP program, she teaches courses on pediatrics, genetics and nursing concepts.
Baxter spent 10 years as a clinical nurse at Rainbow Babies & Children’s Hospital in Cleveland before pursuing a slightly different career path in higher education.
“I really loved education,” she explained. “When I worked at the hospital, I taught a clinical group of nursing students and just fell in love with it and decided that I really had a passion for teaching and went back to school to get my master’s.”
The OLN is a constituent of the National League for Nursing and works in concert to ensure a strong and diverse nursing workforce to advance the nation’s health. OLN’s membership is passionate about the development of scholarly, research-oriented nurse educators with a compassion for teaching the next generation of nurses how to deliver quality patient-centered nursing care.
(COLUMBUS, Ohio) — Ohio Attorney General Dave Yost today announced a significant victory in the ongoing battle to ensure fair competition in the digital marketplace. A federal court has found that Google is a monopolist and has violated Section 2 of the Sherman Act by unlawfully maintaining its monopoly.
“Today reaffirms that no company, no matter how powerful, is above the law,” Yost said. “We will continue to hold monopolies accountable to protect Ohioans and ensure a fair and competitive market.”
The states allegedthat Google illegally maintains its monopoly power over general search engines and related advertising markets through a series of anticompetitive exclusionary contracts and conduct. As a result, Google has deprived consumers of competition that could lead to greater choice, innovation, and better privacy protections.
Further legal analysis is being conducted of Judge Amit Mehta’s decision in the U.S. District Court of the District of Columbia.
Ashland, OH – Sunrise Custom Construction LLC, a new business dedicated to providing exceptional construction services, has officially opened its doors to serve Ashland and the surrounding communities. Founded by experienced general contractor Abraham Lyons, the company promises to deliver top-quality workmanship on projects both big and small.
Sunrise Custom Construction offers a comprehensive range of residential construction services, specializing in new construction, remodeling, and renovations. Lyons, known for his incredible work and dedication to customer satisfaction, ensures that every project meets the highest standards of quality and professionalism.
“We are excited to bring our expertise to the Ashland area and help residents turn their dream projects into reality,” said Lyons. “At Sunrise Custom Construction, we take pride in going above and beyond the competition to deliver results that exceed our clients’ expectations.”
The company is fully licensed, insured, and accredited by the Better Business Bureau (BBB), providing peace of mind to clients throughout the service areas, including Mansfield, Lexington, Ontario, Ashland, Columbus, and surrounding regions.
(COLUMBUS, Ohio) — In a significant legal victory, Franklin County Court of Common Pleas Judge Michael J. Holbrook ruled in favor of the state in the contentious House Bill 68 case. This decision underscores the state’s legislative power to regulate medical and surgical decisions affecting minors, particularly in the realm of gender-affirming care.
Bethany McCorkle, Communications Director for the Ohio Attorney General, released a statement celebrating the court’s decision: “The Attorney General applauds the trial court’s decision. This case has always been about the legislature’s authority to enact a law to protect our children from making irreversible medical and surgical decisions about their bodies. The law doesn’t say ‘no’ forever; it simply says ‘not now’ while the child is still growing.”
Ruling Summary
In the detailed ruling, the court addressed several constitutional challenges brought forward by the plaintiffs, which included transgender adolescents and their parents. The plaintiffs argued that HB 68 violated multiple clauses of the Ohio Constitution: the Single Subject Rule, the Health Care Freedom Amendment, the Equal Protection Clause, and the Due Process Clause.
Key Points from the Ruling:
Single Subject Rule: The court found that despite initial appearances, HB 68 maintains a common purpose of regulating transgender individuals, thus meeting the requirements of the Single Subject Rule under Ohio law.
Health Care Freedom Amendment: The court ruled that the Health Care Ban within HB 68 does not violate this amendment. The ban imposes penalties on medical providers offering gender-affirming care to minors, which the state has classified as “wrongdoing.”
Equal Protection Clause: Applying a rational-basis review, the court concluded that HB 68 is rationally related to the state’s legitimate interest in protecting minors. The ruling noted the global reevaluation of gender-affirming care’s risks and outcomes.
Due Process Clause: The court upheld the ban, emphasizing the state’s vested interest in regulating medical treatments, particularly those deemed experimental and risky for minors.
Implications
This ruling marks a pivotal moment in the ongoing debate over the regulation of gender-affirming care for minors. The court’s decision reinforces the state’s authority to intervene in medical decisions involving children, highlighting the balance between parental rights and state interests in public health and welfare.
As the discussion on transgender rights and healthcare continues to evolve, this ruling sets a precedent for how states may legislate on such sensitive issues. For those opposed to HB 68, the court’s message was clear: recourse lies within the democratic process and the ballot box, not the judicial system.
Next Steps
The plaintiffs and their supporters may seek to appeal the decision, potentially escalating the case to higher courts. Meanwhile, the ruling will likely influence similar legislative efforts across the country, as states navigate the complex intersection of healthcare, parental rights, and child protection.
This case underscores the judiciary’s role in interpreting legislative intent and constitutional protections, affirming the principle that substantial legislative decisions, especially those affecting vulnerable populations, must withstand rigorous judicial scrutiny.
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 Amillia Mulvane. Mulvane is wanted by the U.S. Marshals Service and the Richland County Sheriff’s Office for a probation violation on the original charge of domestic violence. Mulvane, 34, is described as a white female with red hair and blue eyes, standing 5 feet, 4 inch tall. Mulvane has ties to the city of Mansfield.
Amillia Mulvane
The Northern Ohio Violent Fugitive Task Force is offering a reward for information which would lead to the capture of fugitive Corbin Brueche. Brueche is wanted by the U.S. Marshals Service and the Richland County Sheriff’s Office for possession of dangerous drugs. Brueche, 36, is described as a white male with brown hair and green eyes, standing 5 feet 10 inch tall. Brueche has ties to the city of Mansfield.
Corbin Brueche
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 Dorrien Smith, Amillia Mulvane, Corbin Brueche, 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.
Ashland, OH – On Sunday evening, at approximately 5:52 PM, officers from the Ashland Police Division, along with Ashland EMS, responded to a disturbing call about a body found behind the O’Reilly Auto Parts located at 927 E Main St, Ashland. The discovery was made near the backyard of 122 Steele Ave.
A 911 caller reported finding a woman lying on the ground, initially appearing unresponsive. The woman, believed to be in her 50s, regained consciousness upon the arrival of EMS. She was transported to UH Samaritan Medical Center by Ashland EMS for further medical evaluation and care.
The incident has raised concerns among local residents, many of whom have reached out to ACP News seeking information.
The Ashland Police Division said, that the case has been handed over to the Detective Bureau and remains under investigation. As of now, no further details have been released to the public.
Today marks the 20th Annual Chicken BBQ and Car Show hosted by the Savannah Volunteer Fire Company, an event eagerly anticipated by the local community. Starting at 3 PM, attendees can enjoy a delicious meal for $12.00, with payments accepted in cash or by check. The event, known for its hearty food and impressive car displays, also serves as a crucial fundraiser for the fire company.
I spoke with Fire Chief Steve Dinsmore about the logistics and preparations behind the event. “We’re roughly looking at around 1800 pounds of chicken,” Dinsmore said. “We have 880 halves of chicken this year, all donated by Case Farms, who were a big sponsor for us. This year, we had a lot of people step up and donate materials. Home City Ice donated all the ice for the drinks. There’s a whole list of donors I don’t have complete list, but many businesses and community members have contributed.”
The fire company uses approximately 30 bags of charcoal, 100 pounds of potatoes, and 42 pounds of macaroni salad. The baked beans alone were described as “a mountain.” Dinsmore added, “The community also stepped forward to donate pies and cookies again this year. We’re really excited. It should be a good year for us.”
This fundraiser is vital for the Savannah Volunteer Fire Company, particularly for maintaining and upgrading their equipment. “This helps with our second squad, a 2006 model. We’re completely renovating it with a new airbag suspension system, going through the brake lines, brake chambers, and everything from top to bottom. It’s getting a facelift. The lead time on new vehicles is close to three years now,” Dinsmore explained.
The event also features a car show, attracting an average of 100 cars each year. Despite the morning rain, Dinsmore was pleased with the turnout. “We have well over 50 cars right now, and we still have three hours to check in and get judged. It’s been a good morning,” he said.
Reflecting on the event’s history, Dinsmore shared, “I’ve been involved long before I was officially on the department. I joined the fire company in 1990, right after graduating. But even before that, it was a community event. In the late ’80s, the community came together and got this thing done.”
The Savannah Volunteer Fire Company has a rich history dating back to 1882. The fire company began with the recommendation to build cisterns for fire purposes. By 1889, only one cistern and several wells were available, and a new engine, hose, and suction hose were added in 1894. Over the years, the company evolved, forming a new fire company in 1897 and eventually becoming a corporation in 1952. Today, the Savannah Volunteer Fire Company remains a cornerstone of the community, dedicated to serving and protecting its residents.
For those wishing to contribute, donations of supplies, monetary gifts, and food are welcomed. Questions can be directed to Dannielle Martin at 740-501-8888 or Jonathan Martin at 567-217-1538.
Subscribe to receive a free email as soon as a big story is posted
Joe Lyons •
August 7, 2024
The Muskingum Watershed Conservancy District (MWCD) is now accepting applications for the Nonpoint Source Implementation Strategy (NPS-IS) Development Fund. This newly created fund is intended to assist communities in developing a 9-element nonpoint source implementation strategy for watersheds within the Muskingum River Basin and implement them through conservation programs and projects, water quality issues, and flood reduction and mitigation projects.
Jill Matthes Baxter, director of Ashland University’s Doctor of Nursing Program and associate professor of nursing, was recognized as one of the 2024 Faces of Care by the Ohio League for Nursing (OLN). The six nurse educators honored as Faces of Care were celebrated during a gala event in June, presented by the OLN and Cleveland Magazine.
(COLUMBUS, Ohio) — Ohio Attorney General Dave Yost today announced a significant victory in the ongoing battle to ensure fair competition in the digital marketplace. A federal court has found that Google is a monopolist and has violated Section 2 of the Sherman Act by unlawfully maintaining its monopoly.
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 Amillia Mulvane. Mulvane is wanted by the U.S. Marshals Service and the Richland County Sheriff’s Office for a probation violation on the original charge of domestic violence. Mulvane, 34, is described as a white female with red hair and blue eyes, standing 5 feet, 4 inch tall. Mulvane 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 Corbin Brueche. Brueche is wanted by the U.S. Marshals Service and the Richland County Sheriff’s Office for possession of dangerous drugs. Brueche, 36, is described as a white male with brown hair and green eyes, standing 5 feet 10 inch tall. Brueche 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 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.
