Ashland residents and businesses have reported detecting the odor of natural gas across the city, prompting investigations by the Ashland Fire Department. Despite thorough checks using advanced metering devices, no traces of explosive gases have been found. However, the distinct smell persists, leading to ongoing safety concerns.
Captain Rob McCrea of the Ashland Fire Department confirmed crews have responded to numerous calls regarding the gas odor. While no hazards have been detected, authorities advise those detecting the odor to ventilate indoor spaces by opening windows or doors. Residents experiencing concerns or symptoms associated with gas exposure are encouraged to call 911 for assistance, with the Ashland Fire Department’s non-emergency line available for inquiries at 419-289-651.
The smell of natural gas, often attributed to mercaptans, remains a safety indicator despite no visible leaks. Columbia Gas underscores safety measures in case of suspected gas leaks, urging individuals to evacuate and contact emergency services.
Investigations into the source of the odor are ongoing, with community cooperation vital for resolution. Residents are reminded to prioritize safety while authorities work to address the situation.
As Ashland commemorates its (Ashland’s Guy C. Myers Bandshell) 75th Anniversary with Spectacular Summer Concert Series75th anniversary, residents and visitors alike are invited to immerse themselves in the magic of live entertainment at the renowned Guy C. Myers Bandshell. Nestled in the heart of Ashland, Ohio, this iconic venue promises an unforgettable experience amidst the serene beauty of Brookside Park.
Step into a world where melodies come alive, as the Guy C. Myers Bandshell hosts its annual Summer Concert Series, featuring an eclectic lineup of performances that cater to diverse musical tastes. From timeless classics to contemporary hits, there’s something for everyone to enjoy.
Kicking off the festivities on June 9th is “Sounds of Touch,” a captivating ensemble that pays homage to the timeless melodies of Motown. With a repertoire that includes hits from legendary artists like Rick Springfield and The Temptations, their performance sets the stage for an enchanting summer ahead.
Throughout the season, attendees can look forward to a variety of acts, including the brass harmonies of “Brass Metropolis,” the nostalgic tunes of “Disco Inferno,” and the electrifying tribute to Elvis by “Reflections of Elvis.” Each concert promises to transport audiences on a musical journey filled with passion, energy, and sheer talent.
Noteworthy highlights include the Ashland Symphony Orchestra’s “Pops in the Park Concert” on June 30th, featuring Grammy Award-winning director Michael Repper. This patriotic celebration, complete with live cannon fire during the iconic 1812 Overture, is sure to be a highlight of the summer.
As the concert series unfolds, audiences can expect a diverse array of performances, ranging from big band swing to soulful blues, and even a special appearance by the internationally acclaimed Ted Yoder Band, renowned for their mastery of the hammered dulcimer.
Moreover, the Guy C. Myers Bandshell serves as more than just a venue for musical entertainment—it’s a testament to Ashland’s rich history and community spirit. Donated by Mrs. Kate Myers in memory of her husband, Guy Chase Myers, the bandshell stands as a symbol of generosity and civic pride.
As Ashland’s annual Chautauqua celebrates its 25th Silver Anniversary Year from July 15th to 20th, attendees can engage with history through captivating portrayals of iconic figures such as Julia Child, Joe Louis, and Amelia Earhart, brought to life by talented actor-scholars.
Concert-goers are encouraged to bring their friends, family, and lawn chairs to enjoy the performances under the stars. With a suggested donation of $2 per person, these events are accessible to all, fostering a sense of community and friendship that defines the Ashland experience.
Join us at the Guy C. Myers Bandshell this summer and be part of a tradition that celebrates the joy of music, the beauty of nature, and the spirit of Ashland. Let the enchantment of live entertainment ignite your senses and create cherished memories that will last a lifetime.
For more information and updates on the Summer Concert Series, including rain site locations, please call the hotline at 419-281-3018 after 5:00 PM on concert days.
The Ashland County Coroner’s Office has released the identity of the individual whose body was discovered in the Ashland Cemetery creek yesterday evening. Identified as Brent Hayton, a 48-year-old white male from Ashland County, the deceased was found in the creek behind the Ashland Town Creek.
Ashland County Coroner’s Office investigator Jenny Taylor reported that they received the call at approximately 5:33 pm on April 8, 2024. According to a press release issued by the office, the body was discovered in the creek.
The deceased has been transferred to the Lucas County Coroner’s Office for autopsy procedures. However, details surrounding the circumstances of the death remain scarce, as the investigation is actively being pursued by the Ashland Police Department.
Despite repeated inquiries, Ashland Police have refrained from releasing any statements regarding the discovery. Concerns regarding potential foul play or implications for the community remain unanswered, heightening curiosity and apprehension among local residents.
The Northern Ohio Violent Fugitive Task Force is offering a reward for information which would lead to the capture of fugitive Calvin Brooks. Brooks is wanted by the U.S. Marshals Service and the Richland County Sheriff’s Office for a probation violation on the original charge of burglary F1. Brooks, 45, is described as a black male with black hair and brown eyes, standing 5 feet 8 inches tall. Brooks has ties to the city of Mansfield.
Justin Brownfield
The Northern Ohio Violent Fugitive Task Force is offering a reward for information which would lead to the capture of fugitive Justin Brownfield. Brownfield is wanted by the U.S. Marshals Service and the Richland County Sheriff’s Office for possession of cocaine. Brownfield, 38, is described as a white male with brown hair and brown eyes, standing 5 feet, 6 inches tall. Stewart has ties to the city of Mansfield.
Jhousha Stewart
The Northern Ohio Violent Fugitive Task Force is offering a reward for information which would lead to the capture of fugitive Jhousha Stewart. Stewart is wanted by the U.S. Marshals Service and the Richland County Sheriff’s Office for possession of fentanyl related compound. Stewart, 33, is described as a white male with brown hair and blue eyes, standing 5 feet, 11 inches tall. Stewart has ties to the cities of Mansfield and Columbus.
Jose Flores
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. Flores, 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.
If you have any information in reference to Calvin Brooks, Justin Brownfield, David Jhousha Stewart, 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.
In the first episode of Buckeye Music Spotlight, the spotlight falls on Dawson Stepp, a 20-year-old guitarist and singer hailing from Ashland, Ohio. Known for his impressive musical talents and captivating performances, Dawson has been making waves in the local music scene and beyond.
Dawson’s journey into the world of music began at the tender age of 4 when he unwrapped an electric guitar on Christmas morning. From that moment on, he was hooked. Although he started with lessons, Dawson’s natural talent and dedication led him to largely teach himself, learning by ear and studying videos of his musical idols.
Throughout his teenage years, Dawson honed his skills by attending jam nights in his area, jamming with seasoned musicians, and immersing himself in the rich musical culture of Ohio. His hard work paid off when, as a high school senior, he landed the coveted role of lead guitarist for country music artist Brent Lowry.
This role opened doors for Dawson, allowing him to share the stage with renowned acts such as Scotty McCreery, Sean Stemaly, David Adam Byrnes, and Dillon Carmichael. His talent even caught the attention of Southern Rock band Them Dirty Roses, who invited him to join them on stage after seeing a video of him covering one of their songs.
Dawson’s star continued to rise when he caught the eye of The Steel Woods, who invited him for a meet and greet during their tour stop in Cincinnati. This remarkable feat was achieved before Dawson even graduated high school, underscoring his prodigious talent and dedication to his craft.
In 2023, Dawson seized another opportunity, becoming the lead guitarist for country music artist Tim Oliver from Columbus, Ohio. As a member of Tim Oliver’s band, Dawson has shared the stage with notable artists like Ray Scott, Tigirlily Gold, and Colt Ford.
The dynamic duo of Tim and Dawson recently embarked on a trip to Nashville to perform and record a new single, signaling their aspirations to make a mark on the country music scene. With plans to relocate to Nashville this Spring, Dawson and Tim are poised to take their careers to new heights.
With his remarkable journey and boundless talent, Dawson Stepp is undoubtedly a rising star to watch. Be sure to follow Tim and Dawson for updates on their latest endeavors and upcoming releases. Don’t miss out on witnessing the ascent of this young musical prodigy – subscribe to Buckeye Music Spotlight today.
A portion of County Road 251 in Perry Township will be closed Wednesday, April 10th and Thursday, April 11th for a culvert replacement. The road will be closed between Township Road 1500 and State Route 250. More specifically between House # 1434 and House # 1426. It is anticipated that the road will reopen by 4:00 pm, Thursday, April 11th.
I love animals, but I have a special place in my heart for dogs. My dogs were a big part of my family life whether at home growing up, or when living on my own. Dogs have their own unique, loving ways to let us know that in times of crisis, in times of celebration, and in times of daily life we are not alone. A wag of a tail, a lick, and a hug are some of the not too subtle ways dogs express their love. Each day my dogs tell me, “I adore you!”
The dog’s brain whirs with the assault of heightened olfactory, visual, and auditory impressions. The dog thinks, “This is a dog I’ve never met before,” or “That woman carries treats in her pocket and gives me one if my human stops to talk with her,” or “This is where I last peed.” or “A siren is coming, or “Usually we cross over there.” The more you take your dog on walks, take him to nursing homes, and visit children, you will see that we two species, human and animal, have much in common yet complement each other by experiencing life in vastly different ways.
Last fall, Grace and I went to a local nursing home to randomly visit patients. A social worker asked me if Grace would visit a lovely lady, Ruby, who has been non-responsive for four days. The social worker said the nurses think she only has a few days to live. We silently walked over to Ruby’s bed, and with the nurse’s permission, lifted my pup up onto the bed.
Ruby didn’t make a sound. I reached under the covers and placed Ruby’s hand on Grace’s soft fur and then… Ruby’s eyes popped wide open and with the biggest smile she shouted, “Hey! Hey!” Then she went back to being non-responsive.
The nurse and the volunteer just looked at me and wondered if we really saw what we saw. So, I moved Ruby’s hand to Grace’s chest and… you guessed it, eyes open and “Hey! Hey!” The thing is, Ruby wasn’t seeing three women and a dog. We believed she was seeing something beautiful, heavenly, happy. The joy and light in her eyes encapsulated the most awesome spiritual encounter we had ever witnessed.
Grace and we three women stayed with Ruby for another twenty minutes and delighted in watching Ruby and Grace connect over, and over again. I lifted Grace off the bed and put Ruby’s hand back under the covers. Then we left for home. I giggled. Grace barked and talked.
At home, Grace and I just snuggled quietly and thanked God for this day.
Early the next morning Ruby’s social worker called and said Ruby peacefully died about 1:00 this morning.
I tell you this story to remind you to open your heart so you can recognize and receive blessings–especially if they arrive accompanied by a bark.
Blessings,
Dianne Hammontree,
secretary of Homeward Bound, Inc
I love animals, but I have a special place in my heart for dogs. My dogs were a big part of my family life whether at home growing up, or when living on my own. Dogs have their own unique, loving ways to let us know that in times of crisis, in times of celebration, and in times of daily life we are not alone. A wag of a tail, a lick, and a hug are some of the not too subtle ways dogs express their love. Each day my dogs tell me, “I adore you!”
The dog’s brain whirs with the assault of heightened olfactory, visual, and auditory impressions. The dog thinks, “This is a dog I’ve never met before,” or “That woman carries treats in her pocket and gives me one if my human stops to talk with her,” or “This is where I last peed.” or “A siren is coming, or “Usually we cross over there.” The more you take your dog on walks, take him to nursing homes, and visit children, you will see that we two species, human and animal, have much in common yet complement each other by experiencing life in vastly different ways.
Last fall, Grace and I went to a local nursing home to randomly visit patients. A social worker asked me if Grace would visit a lovely lady, Ruby, who has been non-responsive for four days. The social worker said the nurses think she only has a few days to live. We silently walked over to Ruby’s bed, and with the nurse’s permission, lifted my pup up onto the bed.
Ruby didn’t make a sound. I reached under the covers and placed Ruby’s hand on Grace’s soft fur and then… Ruby’s eyes popped wide open and with the biggest smile she shouted, “Hey! Hey!” Then she went back to being non-responsive.
The nurse and the volunteer just looked at me and wondered if we really saw what we saw. So, I moved Ruby’s hand to Grace’s chest and… you guessed it, eyes open and “Hey! Hey!” The thing is, Ruby wasn’t seeing three women and a dog. We believed she was seeing something beautiful, heavenly, happy. The joy and light in her eyes encapsulated the most awesome spiritual encounter we had ever witnessed.
Grace and we three women stayed with Ruby for another twenty minutes and delighted in watching Ruby and Grace connect over, and over again. I lifted Grace off the bed and put Ruby’s hand back under the covers. Then we left for home. I giggled. Grace barked and talked.
At home, Grace and I just snuggled quietly and thanked God for this day.
Early the next morning Ruby’s social worker called and said Ruby peacefully died about 1:00 this morning.
I tell you this story to remind you to open your heart so you can recognize and receive blessings–especially if they arrive accompanied by a bark.
Blessings,
Dianne Hammontree, secretary of Homeward Bound, Inc
April is National Distracted Driving Awareness Month
Ashland County – April is National Distracted Driving Awareness Month and the Ohio State Highway Patrol is urging motorists to commit to eliminating distractions while behind the wheel.
Ohio’s distracted driving law became a primary offense last April after Governor Mike DeWine signed SB 288. When the law took effect, motorists were given a six-month grace period before the law became enforceable. During that time, officers stopped motorists for illegally using an electronic device, educated them on the new law and warned them for the violation. The new law became enforceable in October and during the final three months of last year, troopers issued 3,575 citations for distracted driving violations. This was a 119% increase from the same time period in 2022.
Distracted driving was a factor in 55,857 Ohio crashes from 2019 through 2023. Of these crashes, 169 were fatal, resulting in 185 deaths. In addition, more than 29,000 people were injured in distracted driving-related crashes.
The distracted driving law change has made a clear and positive impact on the safety of Ohio roadways. In 2023, there were 28 distracted driving-related fatal crashes across the state. This was the fewest distracted driving-related deaths over the last five years.
“Ohio’s strengthened law is saving lives by changing the culture around distracted driving, but we still need more drivers to commit to focusing on the road,” said Governor DeWine. “National Distracted Driving Awareness Month is a great reminder for drivers to put their phones down and limit in-car distractions.”
Distracted driving is any non-driving activity with the potential to take the driver’s focus from the primary task of driving, and increase the risk of crashing. Distractions can be visual, taking eyes off of the road; manual, taking hands off the wheel; or cognitive, taking the driver’s mind off driving. Texting while driving is an example of all three types of distractions at once. Sending or receiving a text message takes a driver’s eyes off the road for an average of 4.6 seconds, the equivalent of driving the length of an entire football field when traveling at 55 mph.
“In 2024, distracted driving enforcement will continue to be a high priority,” said Colonel Charles A. Jones, Patrol superintendent. “We must continue to educate the public on the dangers and consequences of distracted driving.”
The Patrol reminds you to safely call #677 when you see unsafe driving or if you need assistance on Ohio roadways.
Distracted driving information is available here and on the Patrol’s Ohio Statistics and Analytics for Traffic Safety (OSTATS) Crash Dashboard. Also, PhonesDown.Ohio.gov is a great resource for motorists.
Joe Lyons •
April 10, 2024
I love animals, but I have a special place in my heart for dogs. My dogs were a big part of my family life whether at home growing up, or when living on my own. Dogs have their own unique, loving ways to let us know that in times of crisis, in times of celebration, and in times of daily life we are not alone. A wag of a tail, a lick, and a hug are some of the not too subtle ways dogs express their love. Each day my dogs tell me, “I adore you!”
April is National Distracted Driving Awareness Month