ASHLAND, Ohio – Dick Ruhl, who made contributions to the success of Ashland University as a longtime member of the AU Board of Trustees (1992-2009), is still making an impact and improving the quality of education and the quality of life for AU students after his passing.
A highly successful businessman in Columbus, Ohio, Ruhl passed away this past December at the age of 86. While still mourning his loss, Jody Ruhl ‘92, the youngest of his three daughters, felt privileged to personally deliver the remainder of the estate gift to AU President Jon Peede in August.
The total bequest was $600,000, which will help to complete a number of recent and ongoing projects at the university:
· Renovations to the upper level of the John C. Myers Convocation Center
Jody Ruhl remarked that her father would be overjoyed his gift is able to impact so many different areas of campus.
“He would love it, he would. He would have been really happy that the money is going to several areas, not just one area of campus,” she said. “And, that’s what I like. He had a term … spreading the wealth and that was kind of his motto. I think it’s great it’s going to Convo, to band uniforms, etc.”
Peede agreed and told Jody Ruhl, “What I really love about your father’s gift is that comprehensiveness. I think in life we want to be full people. We want to live in full communities. We want our mind, body and soul engaged.”
“So, it’s this idea … you can be a scholar-athlete, you can be in the fine arts, you can be in the sciences, then when you finish you can come to a great convening right here (Convocation Center),” he continued. “What a legacy, and we’ve used several times his gift, but it’s a family decision that says from the resources and capacities of this family, we’re giving this. And, that’s special.”
In addition to serving on the AU Board of Trustees for nearly two full decades, Dick Ruhl was recognized with the Honorary Alumnus Award (2010), given to a friend of the university who demonstrated dedication to the beliefs and values of the university through service and philanthropy.
Jody Ruhl majored in fashion merchandising, studied abroad in Mexico and was a member of the Alpha Phi sorority during her undergraduate days, and her greatest memory came at graduation when her father handed her diploma on stage. AU had been the ideal match for her.
“I loved Ashland. Small classes and individualized attention were exactly what I needed. And, it was only an hour and a half from home, so it was a perfect fit,” said Ruhl, who has served on the AU Alumni Board.
The family’s legacy at AU continues to this day. Molly Hopson Kindel, a niece of Jody Ruhl, just graduated from the Masters of Education program this spring. She earned the M.Ed. degree, specializing in literacy, curriculum and instruction with a reading endorsement, to advance her career as a teacher in the Jonathan Alder Local School District.
As Jody Ruhl reflected on her family’s passion for AU, she said it all started when her father was a teenager and didn’t think he had the finances or the grades to go to college, but was inspired by the advice from a professor to pursue higher education. That may have fueled him to help others in similar situations.
“He didn’t know his calling in life right off the bat,” Ruhl noted. “I think he (thought) back about the people who gave him chances as well.”
Dick Ruhl’s repeated gifts—his lifetime giving to AU totals more than $1.6 million—have provided a number of significant enhancements to the AU student experience. Prior to the estate gift, his philanthropy has impacted the annual fund, the Ashbrook Center, the Dwight Schar College of Nursing and Health Sciences, the Rinehart Center for Religious Studies, the women’s basketball program and other areas.
“We always need a reminder what are we doing this for … what’s the mission,” said Peede. “We’re trying to help these young people with their calling in life.”
Clarksfield Township – The Ohio State Highway Patrol’s Norwalk Post is currently investigating a serious single-vehicle crash that occurred on August 30, 2024, at approximately 9:05 P.M. The crash occurred on State Route 60 south of Auster Road in Wakeman Township, Huron County.
Dylan Steen, a 26-year-old from Ashland, Ohio, was driving a 2024 Indian Challenger Dark Horse southbound on State Route 60. Mr. Steen failed to negotiate the curve, causing the motorcycle to leave the roadway on the left side. The vehicle then struck a ditch and overturned.
At the time of the crash, Mr. Steen was not wearing a helmet and was ejected from the motorcycle. He sustained serious injuries and was airlifted to Cleveland Metro Hospital by Life Flight.
Preliminary investigations suggest that speed and alcohol use may have contributed to the crash, though the incident remains under investigation.
The Ohio State Highway Patrol was assisted on scene by Wakeman Police Department, Wakeman Township Fire Department, Citizen’s Ambulance, Metro Lifeflight, and Interstate Towing.
Clarksfield Township – The Ohio State Highway Patrol’s Norwalk Post is currently investigating a serious single-vehicle crash that occurred on August 30, 2024, at approximately 9:05 P.M. The crash occurred on State Route 60 south of Auster Road in Wakeman Township, Huron County.
Dylan Steen, a 26-year-old from Ashland, Ohio, was driving a 2024 Indian Challenger Dark Horse southbound on State Route 60. Mr. Steen failed to negotiate the curve, causing the motorcycle to leave the roadway on the left side. The vehicle then struck a ditch and overturned.
At the time of the crash, Mr. Steen was not wearing a helmet and was ejected from the motorcycle. He sustained serious injuries and was airlifted to Cleveland Metro Hospital by Life Flight.
Preliminary investigations suggest that speed and alcohol use may have contributed to the crash, though the incident remains under investigation.
The Ohio State Highway Patrol was assisted on scene by Wakeman Police Department, Wakeman Township Fire Department, Citizen’s Ambulance, Metro Lifeflight, and Interstate Towing.
Ashland, OH – In a daring yet ultimately unsuccessful break-in attempt, the Bill Harris Chrysler Dodge Jeep Ram Dealership, located at 2100 S Baney Rd, Ashland, OH, once again became the target of would-be car thieves early Sunday morning. Known for its high-performance vehicles, the dealership has long been a draw for customers and, unfortunately, criminals alike.
Around 3 a.m. on Sunday, a group of burglars attempted to breach the dealership, with their sights set on a 2024 Dodge Durango SRT Hellcat, a vehicle that boasts over 700 horsepower and can reach speeds of up to 190 miles per hour. However, this was not their lucky day.
George Hitchcock, the General Sales Manager of Bill Harris, shared details of the incident, highlighting the dealership’s preparedness against such attempts. “We sell a lot of high performance vehicles, and with that comes a certain amount of risk. But we’re fully prepared to defend these vehicles and keep them safe,” said Hitchcock. “These guys took quite some time to break through the security glass, but they didn’t realize that our security systems were already in place, both inside and outside the building.”
Hitchcock explained that despite the effort the burglars put into breaking in, they were foiled by multiple layers of security. The dealership’s advanced security measures, including off-site key storage and disabling vehicle components, meant the thieves never stood a chance. “Even if they got inside, the vehicles here are disabled. They don’t have the necessary components to run,” Hitchcock added. “They’re basically bricks.”
The General Sales Manager’s frustration was evident as he described the damage caused by the break-in. “We like to keep local businesses in business, but not like this. The glass company probably appreciates the call, but the thieves won’t find what they’re looking for inside this building,” he said. “We hope they consider a more legal route to obtaining these vehicles, perhaps by purchasing one instead of attempting to steal it.”
The repeated break-in attempts highlight the dealership’s appeal due to its inventory of high-performance vehicles. Hitchcock noted that the dealership has seen a significant increase in such incidents over the past five years. “We’ve been in business for over 40 years, and we’ve seen more break-ins in the last five years than in the previous 35 combined,” he said.
Despite the ongoing threats, Hitchcock remains confident in the dealership’s ability to thwart any future attempts. “The bad guys want what the consumers want too, and we seem to have the most of it. But they quickly realize that we’re prepared for them.”
Ashland Police Division Officers were on the scene quickly, though no arrests were made. The incident serves as a stark reminder of the risks associated with high-demand vehicles, but also as a testament to the robust security measures in place at Bill Harris Chrysler Dodge Jeep Ram Dealership.
Ashland, OH — Ed Snook of Ashland was honored today with the prestigious “Saved By The Belt” award, recognizing his decision to wear a seat-belt during a recent traffic accident. The award presented to Snook highlighted the critical importance of safety belts in preventing serious injuries and fatalities on Ohio’s roads.
The Ohio State Highway Patrol’s Ashland Post, which hosted the event, emphasizes the life-saving benefits of seat-belt use. “Safety belts are a proven lifesaver, and we urge every motorist to buckle up,” said Lt. Brad Bishop, commander of the Ashland Post. “Every click of a safety belt represents a decision to prioritize life and reduce the risk of severe injury.”
Between 2019 and 2023, Ohio recorded 2,554 fatalities and 62,661 injuries in traffic crashes where safety belts were available but not used. In 2023 alone, the unbelted fatality rate in Ohio reached 61%, continuing a troubling trend of high rates over the past four years.
Troopers from the Ohio State Highway Patrol have issued nearly 350,000 citations for safety belt and child safety seat violations since 2019. The enforcement efforts aim to improve road safety through a combination of citations and educational outreach. “Our goal is to positively influence and change driving behavior to enhance safety for everyone on the road,” Lt. Bishop added.
Ed Snook’s award comes in recognition of his use of a seat-belt during a crash on February 9th on US 30 at SR 511. The safety belt played a crucial role in protecting him from serious injury during the incident. Elizabeth Jackenheimer and Darrin Bookman, also involved in the crash, were presented with their awards on August 2, 2024, during a ceremony at the Ohio State Fair.
For more information on safety belt statistics and crash data, visit the Ohio State Patrol’s safety belt dashboard at Ohio State Patrol Safety Belt Dashboard.
Tim Oliver, a Columbus native now residing in Nashville, is making waves with his latest track “Wish it Would Rain” Oliver is rocking it on the third episode of the Buckeye Music Spotlight with “Reckon I Wrecked It”. Known for his dynamic presence both on and off the stage, Oliver’s new release highlights his versatility and enduring passion for music.
A fixture in the Ohio music scene, Oliver’s journey began in southeastern Ohio along the Muskingum River. He first gained prominence as the lead singer and rhythm guitarist for Exit City, an original rock band based in Columbus, from 2007 to 2010. His talent was further recognized in 2017 when he finished in the top 10 of Usher’s “Mega Star” competition.
Oliver’s debut single “Too Young,” released in the summer of 2020, marked the beginning of a promising solo career. Since then, he has released eight additional singles, earning airplay in both the UK and the US. His rise in the country music scene is further highlighted by his performances alongside notable artists such as Craig Campbell, Ernest, and Hardy.
Currently based in Nashville, Oliver frequently returns to Ohio to perform at his beloved local venues. With his ongoing success and a string of new releases on the horizon, Tim Oliver is a rising star in the country music world to watch.
For more updates on Tim Oliver’s music and upcoming releases, stay tuned to the Buckeye Music Spotlight.
Ashland, OH – At the Ashland County GOP luncheon today, the featured speaker, Ashland County Municipal Court Judge John Good, delivered an in-depth, 50-minute address focusing on the state of the local judicial system, crime trends, and the growing challenges faced by the community. The event, held at the Brethren Care Village Wellness Center, was attended by a diverse group of community leaders, law enforcement officials, and local residents.
The judge, known for his candid remarks, addressed a range of issues impacting the local community, from public safety to challenges in the legal system.
Judge Good began his speech with a disclaimer, noting that he had only been invited to speak a few days prior. Despite the short notice, he offered a comprehensive overview of the Municipal Court’s activities over the past year, touching on various aspects of crime and court operations.
2023 Municipal Court Report: A Snapshot of Local Justice
Judge Good highlighted that the Municipal Court handled over 13,000 cases in 2023, ranging from minor misdemeanor traffic offenses to more serious domestic violence and misdemeanor drug cases. Civil cases also saw significant activity, with around 125 evictions and approximately 1,000 new civil cases, including small claims.
One notable trend was the substantial increase in post-judgment actions, particularly in collection cases. “We had a massive increase in collections cases filed in 2023, most of which stemmed from bad credit card debt,” Judge Good explained. This surge, he noted, is likely a reflection of the current economic climate.
The Evolving Drug Crisis: Progress and New Challenges
A significant portion of Judge Good’s speech focused on the local drug crisis. He acknowledged progress in reducing heroin overdoses, attributing the decrease to a shift in drug preferences among users. “Heroin use is down, largely due to the fear of fentanyl contamination,” Judge Good said. However, this has led to an increase in methamphetamine and cocaine cases.
Fentanyl remains a pervasive threat, with Judge Good noting that the deadly opioid is being found in a variety of other drugs, including marijuana. “We’re seeing marijuana laced with fentanyl, and probationers are testing positive for it without even realizing they’ve been exposed,” he warned.
Vivitrol Program: A Lifeline for Opiate Addicts
Judge Good praised the local Vivitrol program, which he believes has played a crucial role in reducing fatal overdoses in Ashland County. The program, administered by the Ashland County Sheriff’s Office, provides inmates with access to Vivitrol, a medication that blocks the effects of opioids. “I personally know people who I believe would be dead if it weren’t for this program,” he remarked.
However, Judge Good also pointed out challenges associated with the program, particularly the high cost and the logistical difficulties faced by participants in accessing their monthly injections. He mentioned a recent initiative funded by COVID relief and opioid settlement money to provide transportation for those needing Vivitrol shots and other addiction-related services.
Crime Trends and Court Challenges
Judge Good also addressed other crime trends affecting the community, including an increase in thefts, particularly at self-checkout stations in local stores. He noted that thefts at Walmart have become more prevalent, often involving schemes where inexpensive items are scanned in place of higher-priced merchandise.
He also touched on the impact of recent low-income housing developments on crime rates, particularly in areas near Walmart and Home Depot. “The new housing developments have led to an increase in theft and other criminal activities in those areas,” Judge Good observed, emphasizing the broader social costs associated with such projects.
State-Level Issues: The Burden on Local Courts
In a passionate critique, Judge Good expressed frustration with state policies that have increased the burden on local courts and jails. He criticized the state for reducing prison sizes and closing mental health facilities, which has resulted in more felons and mentally ill individuals being housed in the county jail.
“Our jail is not a detox center, nor is it a mental health facility, yet we’re forced to use it as both,” Judge Good said, highlighting the overcrowded conditions at the county jail, which currently houses 126 inmates, well above its intended capacity of 117.
Looking Ahead: A Call for Community Action
Judge Good urged the community to remain vigilant and proactive in addressing these ongoing challenges. He emphasized the importance of local support for law enforcement and the justice system, as well as the need for continued innovation in tackling issues like drug addiction and crime.
“Our community has made significant strides, but there’s still much work to be done,” Judge Good stated. “We must continue to adapt and find new ways to support those in need while ensuring the safety and well-being of our citizens.”
Judge Good speech acknowledge Ashland’s reputation as one of the safest college towns in the United States, as reported by a magazine ranking Bowling Green and Ashland as the top two safest college towns in Ohio. However, the judge pointed out that despite this positive recognition, Ashland faces ongoing challenges, particularly with crime and public safety.
Crime and Public Safety in Ashland
Judge Good expressed his frustration with the increasing number of high-speed chases and criminal activity spilling into Ashland from other areas. He recounted several incidents where fugitives and criminals from neighboring cities ended up in Ashland, often leading to dramatic confrontations. “It amazes me that criminals keep coming here,” Good remarked, noting the reputation Ashland has built for its strict law enforcement and saturation policing.
The judge also highlighted the resurgence of drug-related crimes in the county. He acknowledged that the heat on drug trafficking had diminished for a time, but recent efforts by local law enforcement and the judiciary have restored Ashland’s tough stance on drugs. Judge Good cited a record number of felony filings, indicating a crackdown on drug dealers and other serious offenders.
Challenges with Non-English Speaking Defendants
Another significant issue Judge Good discussed was the growing number of non-English-speaking defendants appearing in his court, particularly those involved in traffic offenses. The judge detailed the complexities and costs associated with providing certified translators, as required by the Ohio Supreme Court. “Yesterday, I had 13 Spanish-speaking individuals come through my court for arraignment,” he said, explaining that the court must hire a certified translator for each hearing, which incurs significant costs.
Despite the language barriers, Judge Good emphasized that most of these individuals are not criminals but are often unlicensed drivers with no insurance. He expressed concern about the potential dangers they pose on the road, particularly given the risky driving behaviors reported in some cases.
Distracted Driving and the New Handheld Electronic Device Statute
Judge Good also discussed the new Ohio statute on handheld electronic devices, which prohibits the use of such devices while driving, except under specific conditions. He criticized the law for being poorly written and difficult to enforce, noting the numerous exceptions that make it challenging for both law enforcement and the courts to handle these cases effectively. “Distracted driving is a big problem in Ohio, but the penalties under this new law are minimal,” he stated, highlighting the loopholes that allow offenders to avoid significant consequences.
Dangerous Dogs and the Role of the Dog Warden
The issue of dangerous dogs was another key topic in Judge Good’s speech. He commended the recent appointment of Deputy Curtis Hall the new dog warden in Ashland County and expressed hope that there will be more rigorous enforcement of laws concerning dangerous and vicious dogs. Citing several recent incidents where pit bulls attacked residents and pets, Judge Good stressed the need for stricter regulations and enforcement to protect the community.
The Amish and Buggy Lighting Enforcement
In a particularly sensitive topic, Judge Good addressed the enforcement of buggy lighting requirements for the Amish community. The judge recounted the challenges of dealing with Old Order Amish who refused to comply with the state law mandating safety lighting on horse-drawn buggies. Despite the respectful demeanor of the Amish in court, Judge Good faced a difficult situation as many refused to pay fines, citing religious convictions.
The judge acknowledged the respectful but firm defiance of the Amish, who viewed the lighting requirement as an insult to their faith. “They were not going to be told by the government that they had to comply,” he explained, noting that this created a unique challenge for the court.
Judge Good concluded his speech by emphasizing the importance of maintaining Ashland’s reputation as a safe and law-abiding community while navigating the complexities of these various legal and social issues. His remarks were well-received by the attendees, who appreciated his forthright discussion of the challenges facing Ashland County.
Ashland, OH — Ed Snook of Ashland was honored today with the prestigious “Saved By The Belt” award, recognizing his decision to wear a seat-belt during a recent traffic accident. The award presented to Snook highlighted the critical importance of safety belts in preventing serious injuries and fatalities on Ohio’s roads.
The Ohio State Highway Patrol’s Ashland Post, which hosted the event, emphasizes the life-saving benefits of seat-belt use. “Safety belts are a proven lifesaver, and we urge every motorist to buckle up,” said Lt. Brad Bishop, commander of the Ashland Post. “Every click of a safety belt represents a decision to prioritize life and reduce the risk of severe injury.”
Between 2019 and 2023, Ohio recorded 2,554 fatalities and 62,661 injuries in traffic crashes where safety belts were available but not used. In 2023 alone, the unbelted fatality rate in Ohio reached 61%, continuing a troubling trend of high rates over the past four years.
Troopers from the Ohio State Highway Patrol have issued nearly 350,000 citations for safety belt and child safety seat violations since 2019. The enforcement efforts aim to improve road safety through a combination of citations and educational outreach. “Our goal is to positively influence and change driving behavior to enhance safety for everyone on the road,” Lt. Bishop added.
Ed Snook’s award comes in recognition of his use of a seat-belt during a crash on February 9th on US 30 at SR 511. The safety belt played a crucial role in protecting him from serious injury during the incident. Elizabeth Jackenheimer and Darrin Bookman, also involved in the crash, were presented with their awards on August 2, 2024, during a ceremony at the Ohio State Fair.
For more information on safety belt statistics and crash data, visit the Ohio State Patrol’s safety belt dashboard at Ohio State Patrol Safety Belt Dashboard.
In a truly breathtaking display of corporate absurdity, Facebook has decided that censoring real news while promoting scams is the latest way to flex its power. Over the past month, the social media giant has embarked on an aggressive campaign to delete legitimate stories from credible news sources—including Ashland County Pictures and The Ohio Press Network. Apparently, in Facebook’s warped world, genuine journalism is the real enemy.
Just last week, Facebook systematically scrubbed around 30 of my posts, including crucial interviews and community stories. Political reporter Jack Windsor of The Ohio Press Network faced similar censorship. Windsor’s report, based on official House committee quotes about President Joe Biden’s impeachment inquiry, was removed despite being a straightforward recounting of facts. And get this—Windsor even received a warning that his post asking followers to pray for America violated Facebook’s guidelines. Apparently, Facebook now considers prayer a form of misinformation.
The deleted stories include interviews with Ashland Mayor Matt Miller and various important community updates. Facebook’s excuse? They claim these stories were removed for violating their “spam” standards, suggesting that posts about local accidents, historical events, and political commentary were somehow misleading attempts to game the system for likes and shares. Really? The platform’s own notifications are a masterclass in irony, warning that posts were taken down for trying to “manipulate likes, follows, and shares,” all while their site is rife with scams masquerading as ads.
Speaking of scams, let’s talk about the ridiculous StopWatt ad that’s been making the rounds. This gem promises that Tesla CEO Elon Musk has invented a device that will cut your electricity bill by a mind-blowing 90%. Snopes has already debunked this nonsense, pointing out that StopWatt is just another rebranded scam product, with zero involvement from Musk or any other reputable figure. But don’t let the facts get in the way of a good scam—Facebook’s ad platform is all too eager to peddle these bogus products.
Despite the fact that Facebook’s notifications assure users they’ll hear back soon about review requests, the reality is that appeals often disappear into a void. Your content remains deleted, and Facebook’s algorithm continues to favor sensationalist ads over factual reporting.
So, here’s the takeaway: don’t rely on Facebook for your news. As the platform continues its war on genuine content while giving free rein to scams, the best move is to get your information straight from trustworthy sources. For accurate news, head directly to AshlandCountyPictures.com or explore other platforms like X, and Truth Social. Because if there’s one thing Facebook has proven, it’s that it can’t be trusted to separate fact from fiction—or news from nonsense.
Students from Genesis Christian Academy are gearing up for an exciting educational trip to Gettysburg, Pennsylvania, this fall. To support their journey, the students and staff will be hosting a garage sale this Saturday, August 31st, at 302 Center St. from 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM. The event promises a wide variety of items, all donated by the community, with 100% of the proceeds going towards funding the trip.
Katie’s Appeal: A Treasure Trove Awaits
Katie, a dedicated teacher at Genesis Christian Academy, enthusiastically shared some of the items up for grabs. “We have a Bissell carpet cleaner that’s only been used once, a Tonka truck perfect for kids who love to play in the dirt, and a cool bowling ball for Wii Sports fans. There are also Mason jars, antique handles, and even a beautiful copper kettle with the original stirrer,” she detailed. Katie emphasized that there’s something for everyone, including new tools, backpacks, stuffed animals, and a rare train set, making the sale a must-visit for bargain hunters and collectors alike.
Ken’s Perspective: A Journey Through History
Ken, a history teacher at Genesis Christian Academy, provided more insight into the significance of the upcoming trip. “I teach world history, Western civilization, American history, and U.S. government at the academy. This field trip to Gettysburg is a unique opportunity for our 30 students to experience history firsthand. The funds from this garage sale are crucial in making this trip possible,” Ken explained.
Among the many items available, Ken highlighted some special finds. “We have some depression glass, beautifully preserved, that we found while cleaning out a barn built in the 1880s. There are also rare Williamsburg containers from the 1970s that are hard to find these days,” he added, noting the historical significance of many of the items up for sale.
A Community Effort
The garage sale is more than just a fundraiser; it’s a community event that has brought together donations from many supporters eager to help the students achieve their educational goals. In addition to the garage sale, the academy is planning other fundraisers, such as car washes, to ensure all students can participate in the Gettysburg trip.
Excitement Builds for the Gettysburg Trip
The students at Genesis Christian Academy are brimming with excitement about their upcoming adventure. “Our students are thrilled about the trip. They can’t wait to explore Gettysburg and learn about the Battle of Gettysburg,” Ken shared. The trip, which will span three days, promises to be a memorable experience, allowing students to deepen their understanding of a pivotal moment in American history.
The garage sale promises to be a fantastic event, offering unique items and supporting a worthy cause. The community is encouraged to come out, find some treasures, and help the students embark on their journey to Gettysburg.
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Joe Lyons •
September 4, 2024
