We would like to express our sincere gratitude to everyone who participated in the searches for our husband, dad, and grandfather. We appreciate the love, support and prayers from our family, friends, and community members. We know the massive undertaking that was involved. We never stopped looking.
A special thanks to the Ashland Police Division, especially to Chief Lay and Detective Pearce, who went above and beyond dealing with many issues, while being thoughtful and comforting to the family.
Thank you to all our friends, coworkers, relatives, and Ashland neighbors who selflessly pitched in, including the many driving from areas including Cleveland, Columbus, and Pennsylvania. We encountered many people who shared access to land, prayers, tears, meals, support and advice.
We witnessed individuals and families who did not know us searching on their own. A special thanks to Jared, Remi, and Ichabod for their extra efforts. And, we extend a sincere thank you to the man that found him and called 911.
The outcome is difficult for us all. We love and miss Tim and have mourned him over the past year.
We would like to take the time to share who he was and what he meant to us. Tim was a loyal and faithful man. His family was the most important thing to him. He was married 53 years and had three children and eight grandchildren whom he loved and was a huge part of their lives.
He was a Hall of Fame baseball player at Grace College. He passed on his love of sports to his children. He coached basketball and baseball and would draft any neighborhood kid available to his teams, because of how much he cared for each of them. Everyone got playing time every game. He taught Sunday school at Woodville Grace and started a Wednesday program at Ashland Grace. He mentored inmates as part of prison ministries for years.
As a grandfather, he went to all of his grandchildren’s sporting and musical events, sometimes driving five hours in a day to be there in the stands to show his love and support. They love him dearly. Each of them pitched in to search and to support however they could. He has four grandchildren in college and one that graduated recently. He never failed to speak of his pride for them.
Tim was the hardest working person anyone knew. He was employed by Ohio Edison for 49 years where he would sometimes work 10 hour days including the day he went missing. Many of those years involved walking up to 15 miles a day serving his customers. He was never late a day in his life and was looking forward to retiring when he reached 50 years of service.
He was a supportive brother, uncle and son. He cared for his aging father and had daily contact with his sister. He deeply loved all of his nieces and nephews, who also helped in the search. They too are missing his presence.
We now ask that you give us time and space to continue the grieving process. We plan to have a private memorial service sometime in the near future. Please continue your prayers for our family and friends.
We have felt the comfort of so many prayers all along and they have brought us peace to accept that God’s plans are often outside the scope of what we can understand.
Keith Porch began his career with the Division in 1999 as a Patrol Officer in the Community Service Bureau. In April of 2007, he became a Detective with METRICH/S.I.U. Promoted to Sergeant in 2009, he returned to the Community Service Bureau until October of 2012. He was reassigned to METRICH/S.I.U. until May of 2013 when he was promoted to Lieutenant. He served as the METRICH Commander until March of 2014.
MPD Chief Keith Porch
Porch was promoted to Assistant Chief of Police in March of 2014 where he gained a broad understanding of many aspects of how our Police Department functions both administratively and operationally. On April 9, 2019 Assistant Chief of Police Keith Porch was offered and accepted the position of Chief of Police. Chief Keith Porch took the official Oath of Office on April 10, 2019. He replaced Chief Kenneth Coontz who officially retired on April 5, 2019.
As Chief of Police, Porch served as the Project Director for the METRICH Enforcement Unit and Chairman to the Richland County Opiate Board, along with providing leadership through the re-accreditation process from the Commission on Accreditation of Law Enforcement Agencies. Chief Porch was able to advance the Division in many areas of technology to assist officers and non-sworn staff with their duties and training.
Prior to joining the Mansfield Division of Police, Chief Porch served the residents of Richland County as a Richland County Sheriff Deputy for five years.
On February 27, 2024 Chief Keith Porch will retire from his duties with the Mansfield Division of Police to assume the duties of the Safety Service Director for the City of Mansfield on February 28, 2024. He has our congratulations upon his retirement and our heartfelt thanks for his many years of loyal service. We wish him good luck and the greatest success in his new position.
Ashland County Sheriff’s Office Detective Brandon Banks was sentenced to 90 days in jail, but the jail time was suspended, and he was given probation for one year. Along with probation. Detective Banks was ordered to pay a $250 fine and complete 40 hours of community service work. This sentence was handed down by the Ashland Municipal Court, before Magistrate Fred Oxley, following Detective Banks’ No Contest plea to assault charge.
During his sentencing hearing, Detective Banks stated, “This has been an absolute nightmare for the entire family. This situation has affected everyone in my family negatively and has added unnecessary stress to my family as well.”
Detective Banks accepted full responsibility for his actions, offering a heartfelt apology to his family. Sitting beside his attorney, Jim Mayer III, Detective Banks expressed deep remorse for his actions, stating, “I take full responsibility for my inexcusable behavior that put my family in this position.”
Banks admitted, “The word ‘sorry’ does not begin to describe how I feel toward my wife and my children for what I did and the position I put them in.” Detective Banks took proactive steps to address his issues by enrolling himself in therapy. He emphasized, “I have been attending and successfully completing every therapy session that I have been to. Therapy taught me how to cope with my depression, anger, and substance abuse.”
Banks acknowledged the detrimental effects of substance abuse and expressed his commitment to maintaining sobriety. He highlighted the importance of therapy in his recovery process and stated his intention to continue therapy in the future. Banks affirmed, “I plan on continuing therapy into the future, and if given an opportunity with probation, I will most certainly comply with probation without any issues.”
In response to Detective Banks’ statements, Magistrate Fred Oxley acknowledged Detective Banks’ acceptance of responsibility and his immediate steps to address his issues. He also took into consideration the wishes of Mrs. Banks, who expressed her desire for the marriage to continue. The court agreed that the incident involving Brandon Banks was a minor one. While the court did not downplay the seriousness of the offense, they recognized that many similar situations could escalate into more severe issues.
Magistrate Oxley emphasized the importance of continuing therapy as part of Detective Banks probation.
Magistrate Oxley stated, “You are not getting any special treatment. This is a fair sentence based on the nature of the incident, your commitment to counseling, and the absence of prior offenses. We see many cases escalate from minor incidents to significant ones, but we believe this sentence is appropriate given the circumstances.”
Magistrate Fred Oxley sentenced Detective Brandon Banks to 90 days in jail. However, recognizing Detective Banks’ remorse and acceptance of responsibility, the court decided to suspend the jail time giving probation for one year. Along with probation, Detective Banks was ordered to pay a $250 fine and complete 40 hours of community service work by July 1.
GALION — The Bucyrus Post of the Ohio State Highway Patrol is investigating a fatal crash that occurred on February 21, 2024, at approximately 1 1 : 15 p.m. on State Route 97 near Millsboro Road in Polk Township.
The preliminary investigation shows David L. Brown, 70 years of age, of Mansfield, Ohio, was operating a Buick LeSabre, eastbound on State Route 97 and traveled off the left side of the roadway. The vehicle struck a guardrail, a ditch, and an embankment before coming to final rest on the north side of the roadway.
Brown was transported to Galion Avita Hospital by Galion EMS where he was pronounced deceased. Brown was wearing his seatbelt at the time of the crash. Alcohol and drugs are not suspected to be a factor in the crash.
The Ohio State Highway Patrol was assisted on scene by the Crawford County Sheriff’s Office, Galion Fire & EMS, and Ronk’s Towing.
The Mansfield Division of Police is asking for the community’s assistance in locating the below missing person. Mariah D. McPherson is a 25-year-old female who is 5 foot, 4 inches tall, weighs 96 lbs and has brown hair and Brown eyes.
Mariah was reported missing on December 29, 2023. Her last known address was 1170 Harwood Dr. Apt. F, Mansfield Ohio. Detectives are requesting the communities help in locating or making contact with her.
Mariah D. McPherson
If you have any information on Ms. Mcphersons whereabouts or can provide any information to assist detectives in locating her, please call the Mansfield Division of Police at 419-522-1234.
Ashland, Ohio—The Ashland City Police Division recognized nearly 20 officers and staff members this past Saturday evening, February 17, at their 2nd Annual Awards Banquet held at Mount Vernon Estate.
Captain Craig Kiley gave a synopsis of the projects the Division is working on for 2024.
Captain Craig Kiley
Chief David Lay recognized those who received Letters of Commendation during 2023.
Chief David Lay
Letter recipients included:
• Officer Mason Birkbeck for his exemplary officer-initiated criminal patrol work in a drug paraphernalia and trafficking case.
• Officer Adam Brock for his professionalism in which a community member complimented Adam’s willingness to work with others and his positive impact on children.
Chief David Lay, Officer Mason Birkbeck, State Representative Melanie Miller
• Sergeant Lee Eggeman for conducting a traffic stop that resulted in the recovery of heroin, drug abuse instruments, and drug paraphernalia. His continued investigative efforts on this case also led to the recovery of additional methamphetamine and heroin in connection to the initial stop.
• Officer Abrahm Neumann received two letters, the first for his off-duty efforts in apprehending a shoplifter, and the second for providing help to an injured driver trapped after a severe crash. Officer Neumann broke a window, climbed inside the vehicle and rendered aid until EMS crews arrived.
• Division Detective Brad Scarl and Ashland County Sheriff’s Office Detective Rick Kinter for their coordinated search warrant with other METRICH detectives to help remove more dangerous drugs from our community after the tragic drug overdose of a community high school-aged student.
Detective Sergeant Curt Dorsey earned the Meritorious Service Award for going above and beyond his primary duties while investigating the rape of a juvenile. Sergeant Dorsey was actually nominated for this award by the Captain of the Stow Police Department, who praised Dorsey and the entire APD for their professionalism, service and spirit of collaboration.
Several officers and staff were recognized for their years of service with the Division as well:
• 5 Years: Officer Mason Birkbeck and Records Specialist Laura Messersmith
• 15 Years: Officer Jeremy Jarvis and Sergeant Jonathan Kohler
This year marks 30 years of service for Chief David Lay, who received a commendation from the Ohio House of Representatives, presented by State Representative Melanie Miller. Chief Lay also earned an educational achievement award for obtaining his Master of Public Safety degree from the University of Virginia this past May.
Mayor Matt Miller, Chief David Lay, State Representative Melanie Miller
A special Life-Saving Award was given to Officer Connor Black who was dispatched to reported house fire back in February 2023. Upon arrival he found an attached garage fully engulfed in flames and proceeded to wake the residents and start their evacuation before the fire crews arrived.
Chief David Lay, Officer Connor Black, State Representative Melanie Miller
“Connor showed great humility about his actions, and when his supervisors looked into this for me, he told them that he was only doing his job,” Chief Lay said, “Without his quick thinking, however, that incident could have had a more tragic ending.”
The peer vote awards rounded out the evening with Civilian, Officer and Supervisor of the Year, capped by the Chief’s Achievement Award. Qualities taken into consideration for these awards include professional conduct, congeniality between employees, dedication and commitment to the Division’s mission and goals, moral character, and outstanding performance in furthering the professional image of the Ashland Police Division.
Chief David Lay and Officer Adam Srnis in focus
Civilian of the Year went to Justice Center Facility maintenance worker Brad Baker. Brad was instrumental in several large projects this past year and has been the driving force behind upcoming building renovations.
Officer of the Year was awarded to Officer Adam Wolbert, a six-year employee of APD who works on a night squad and is a Team Leader on the Special Response Team.
Chief David Lay, Brad Baker, State Representative Melanie Miller
Supervisor of the Year went to Sergeant Lee Eggeman, a 12-year employee who was promoted to Sergeant in 2022 and currently helps to lead C Squad on nights.
Officer Adam Srnis received the Chief’s Achievement Award this year. “When selecting the winners of this award, I focus on motivation, humility, dependability and selflessness,” Chief Lay explained, “but I also see leadership potential in the winners of this award, whether they Chief David Lay, Sergeant Lee Eggeman, State Representative Melanie Millerrecognize it or not. The recipients of this award are some of Ashland’s finest.”
Chief David Lay, Sergeant Lee Eggeman, State Representative Melanie Miller
Srnis is currently assigned to A Sqaud and is a Field Training officer, where he has consistently been in the top three regarding activity for total arrests, drugs arrests, OVI’s, and citations within the Patrol Bureau this past year. Adam was previously voted Officer of the Year in 2022.
Chief David Lay, Officer Adam Srnis, State Representative Melanie Miller
Outside of public safety, Adam is a Deacon at the Faith Baptist Church in Amherst and organized a bible study group among his squadmates last year, leading faith and scripture discussions.
Mayor Matt Miller wrapped up the evening by thanking the Division for all the work they do to keep the Ashland community safe. “All of the wonderful improvements we’ve made to our downtown and all of the efforts we have put in to cleaning up our city and renovating old buildings do not matter if we are not a safe community where individuals and families can enjoy a peaceful quality of life.”
Captain Craig Kiley, Lieutenant Jerry Bloodhart, Chief David Lay, Lieutenant Aaron Kline
***Photo’s Submitted by: Ashland City Police Division***
Video: Special Reporter, Dan Chandler speaks with the cast and crew.
Get ready for an unforgettable experience as Ashland High School presents “Guys and Dolls”! Based on short stories by Damon Runyon, this musical fable of Broadway is sure to captivate audiences with its timeless themes and catchy tunes. With music and lyrics by Frank Loesser, this production promises to be a another winner for producer Rich Wasowski and director Ben Spieldenner.
AHS Musical 2024 Details:
Dates: February 23th, 24th, and the 25th
Venue: Archer Auditorium
Tickets: call 419.289.7968 ext. 3128 or can be purchased at the box office in the AHS lobby .
Q: What makes “Guys and Dolls” at Ashland High School stand out from other productions?
A: The dedication and talent of the students involved in the production truly sets this performance apart. The cast and crew have poured their hearts and souls into bringing this classic musical to life on stage, and their hard work shines through in every scene.
Q: What can audiences expect from this year’s rendition of “Guys and Dolls”?
A: From show-stopping musical numbers to heartfelt moments of drama, this production has it all. The infectious energy of the cast and the impeccable direction of the staff guarantee a night of entertainment that will leave you singing and dancing long after the final curtain call.
Q: Why should theater enthusiasts not miss out on attending “Guys and Dolls” at Ashland High School?
A: Watching young talent blossom on stage is a truly magical experience. “Guys and Dolls” offers a glimpse into the future of theater with performances that are both impressive and inspiring. Don’t miss your chance to support the arts.
Don’t miss your chance to be a part of the magic as Ashland High School presents “Guys and Dolls”! With a talented cast, catchy songs, and a heartwarming story, this musical fable of Broadway is a must-see event for theater lovers of all ages. Get your tickets now and prepare to be amazed by the incredible talent on display at AHS Musical 2024.
Imagine stepping back in time and witnessing a pivotal moment in history firsthand. That’s exactly what students at Genesis Christian Academy in Ashland, Ohio had the opportunity to do when Kenneth Hammontree, a history teacher at the academy, portrayed General George Washington and Mrs. Washington portrayed by Raylene Hlavaty share how Divine Providence saved the American Revolution, in “Crossing the Delaware River.”
How Divine Providence saved the American Revolution
Six months after the Declaration of Independence was brought before the world, the American Revolution was all but lost. A powerful British force had destroyed 90 percent of Washington’s army. What was left was driven across the New Jersey lands and the Delaware River. Panic and despair began to spread through the thirteen colonies. Washington realized that his options were all but gone and the American Revolution would be over by the new year of 1777.
The British and their mercenary allies the Germans had spread their troops across New Jersey in a series of garrisons for the winter which angered the area farmers and the local towns people. Together they rose up against the garrisons and began to harass them. Washington saw his opportunity to do something in saving his small army and the revolution. Having learned of General Howe’s chain of military garrisons after December 13, Washington was encouraged to strike one of them, finally settling on Trenton.
Washington came up with an insane plan that even his officers considered a suicidal mission. His small army of under 5,000 men, and boys (some as young as 14) would cross the wide Delaware river on Christmas day evening and march eight miles in a surprise attack the next morning on December 26, destroying the German/British troops stationed in Trenton. It was indeed a desperate gamble involving a momentous risk, and it failed all would be over for the American Revolution. Washington’s first concern was to protect the secrecy of the operation and gave it the code name “Victory or Death”. Not even his troops were aware when they lined up along the Delaware River where they were heading.
Cold, wet and miserable, the army landed on a frozen patch of New Jersey pasture land and regrouped. Nobody would have any trouble tracking the path of the Americans because of the blood from many of their feet left a clear trail in the fresh fallen snow. The attack on Trenton began at 0800 hours on December 26, 1776, and in less than two hours Washington’s small rag-tag army won a major victory and saved the American Revolution. The victory ranks as one of the great military feats of all time. Frederick the Great of Prussia call the crossing and the attack “the most brilliant in the world’s military history.” It was truly a Divine miracle and a Christmas to remember.
Raylene Hlavaty who also portrayed other women in history like Margaret J. Preston, Fanny Crosby, Abigail Adams, Jennie Wade, and Beatrix Potter. Raylene’s dedication to bringing history to life for the students at Genesis Christian Academy is truly remarkable. https://www.timelessvoicesohio.com/
In conclusion, witnessing history at Genesis Christian Academy is an experience like no other. Through immersive reenactments and passionate portrayals by a dedicated teacher like Kenneth Hammontree and historian like Raylene Hlavaty, students have the opportunity to step back in time and gain a deeper understanding of the events that shaped our nation. By bringing history to life in such a unique and engaging way, Genesis Christian Academy is truly making a difference in the education of its students.
Imagine stepping back in time and witnessing a pivotal moment in history firsthand. That’s exactly what students at Genesis Christian Academy in Ashland, Ohio had the opportunity to do when Kenneth Hammontree, a history teacher at the academy, portrayed General George Washington and Mrs. Washington portrayed by Raylene Hlavaty share how Divine Providence saved the American Revolution, in “Crossing the Delaware River.”
How Divine Providence saved the American Revolution
Six months after the Declaration of Independence was brought before the world, the American Revolution was all but lost. A powerful British force had destroyed 90 percent of Washington’s army. What was left was driven across the New Jersey lands and the Delaware River. Panic and despair began to spread through the thirteen colonies. Washington realized that his options were all but gone and the American Revolution would be over by the new year of 1777.
The British and their mercenary allies the Germans had spread their troops across New Jersey in a series of garrisons for the winter which angered the area farmers and the local towns people. Together they rose up against the garrisons and began to harass them. Washington saw his opportunity to do something in saving his small army and the revolution. Having learned of General Howe’s chain of military garrisons after December 13, Washington was encouraged to strike one of them, finally settling on Trenton.
Washington came up with an insane plan that even his officers considered a suicidal mission. His small army of under 5,000 men, and boys (some as young as 14) would cross the wide Delaware river on Christmas day evening and march eight miles in a surprise attack the next morning on December 26, destroying the German/British troops stationed in Trenton. It was indeed a desperate gamble involving a momentous risk, and it failed all would be over for the American Revolution. Washington’s first concern was to protect the secrecy of the operation and gave it the code name “Victory or Death”. Not even his troops were aware when they lined up along the Delaware River where they were heading.
Cold, wet and miserable, the army landed on a frozen patch of New Jersey pasture land and regrouped. Nobody would have any trouble tracking the path of the Americans because of the blood from many of their feet left a clear trail in the fresh fallen snow. The attack on Trenton began at 0800 hours on December 26, 1776, and in less than two hours Washington’s small rag-tag army won a major victory and saved the American Revolution. The victory ranks as one of the great military feats of all time. Frederick the Great of Prussia call the crossing and the attack “the most brilliant in the world’s military history.” It was truly a Divine miracle and a Christmas to remember.
Raylene Hlavaty who also portrayed other women in history like Margaret J. Preston, Fanny Crosby, Abigail Adams, Jennie Wade, and Beatrix Potter. Raylene’s dedication to bringing history to life for the students at Genesis Christian Academy is truly remarkable. https://www.timelessvoicesohio.com/
In conclusion, witnessing history at Genesis Christian Academy is an experience like no other. Through immersive reenactments and passionate portrayals by a dedicated teacher like Kenneth Hammontree and historian like Raylene Hlavaty, students have the opportunity to step back in time and gain a deeper understanding of the events that shaped our nation. By bringing history to life in such a unique and engaging way, Genesis Christian Academy is truly making a difference in the education of its students.
Baughman Township – On Tuesday, February 20, 2024 at 5:40p.m., the Wooster Post of the Ohio State Highway Patrol was called to the scene of a one-vehicle fatal crash that occurred on Tannerville Rd. South of Burkhart Rd Ext.
The initial investigation revealed that a red 1952 Farmall Super M narrow front tractor was northbound on Tannerville Rd. The tractor traveled off the right side of the roadway striking an embankment and a wooden utility pole. The tractor overturned onto its left side coming to final rest on its top.
The driver, Bradley D. Zook, age 14, of Orrville, Ohio was pronounced deceased at the scene.
At this time, the crash remains under investigation. It does not appear drugs or alcohol contributed to this crash.
The Ohio State Highway Patrol was assisted on scene by Orrville Fire and EMS and the Wayne County Coroner’s Office.
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Joe Lyons •
February 23, 2024
We would like to express our sincere gratitude to everyone who participated in the searches for our husband, dad, and grandfather. We appreciate the love, support and prayers from our family, friends, and community members. We know the massive undertaking that was involved. We never stopped looking.
Keith Porch began his career with the Division in 1999 as a Patrol Officer in the Community Service Bureau. In April of 2007, he became a Detective with METRICH/S.I.U. Promoted to Sergeant in 2009, he returned to the Community Service Bureau until October of 2012. He was reassigned to METRICH/S.I.U. until May of 2013 when he was promoted to Lieutenant. He served as the METRICH Commander until March of 2014.
GALION — The Bucyrus Post of the Ohio State Highway Patrol is investigating a fatal crash that occurred on February 21, 2024, at approximately 1 1 : 15 p.m. on State Route 97 near Millsboro Road in Polk Township.
The Mansfield Division of Police is asking for the community’s assistance in locating the below missing person. Mariah D. McPherson is a 25-year-old female who is 5 foot, 4 inches tall, weighs 96 lbs and has brown hair and Brown eyes.
Captain Craig Kiley gave a synopsis of the projects the Division is working on for 2024.
Chief David Lay recognized those who received Letters of Commendation during 2023.
• Officer Mason Birkbeck for his exemplary officer-initiated criminal patrol work in a drug paraphernalia and trafficking case.
This year marks 30 years of service for Chief David Lay, who received a commendation from the Ohio House of Representatives, presented by State Representative Melanie Miller. Chief Lay also earned an educational achievement award for obtaining his Master of Public Safety degree from the University of Virginia this past May.
A special Life-Saving Award was given to Officer Connor Black who was dispatched to reported house fire back in February 2023. Upon arrival he found an attached garage fully engulfed in flames and proceeded to wake the residents and start their evacuation before the fire crews arrived.
The peer vote awards rounded out the evening with Civilian, Officer and Supervisor of the Year, capped by the Chief’s Achievement Award. Qualities taken into consideration for these awards include professional conduct, congeniality between employees, dedication and commitment to the Division’s mission and goals, moral character, and outstanding performance in furthering the professional image of the Ashland Police Division.
Civilian of the Year went to Justice Center Facility maintenance worker Brad Baker. Brad was instrumental in several large projects this past year and has been the driving force behind upcoming building renovations.
Supervisor of the Year went to Sergeant Lee Eggeman, a 12-year employee who was promoted to Sergeant in 2022 and currently helps to lead C Squad on nights.
Srnis is currently assigned to A Sqaud and is a Field Training officer, where he has consistently been in the top three regarding activity for total arrests, drugs arrests, OVI’s, and citations within the Patrol Bureau this past year. Adam was previously voted Officer of the Year in 2022.
Mayor Matt Miller wrapped up the evening by thanking the Division for all the work they do to keep the Ashland community safe. “All of the wonderful improvements we’ve made to our downtown and all of the efforts we have put in to cleaning up our city and renovating old buildings do not matter if we are not a safe community where individuals and families can enjoy a peaceful quality of life.”
Baughman Township – On Tuesday, February 20, 2024 at 5:40p.m., the Wooster Post of the Ohio State Highway Patrol was called to the scene of a one-vehicle fatal crash that occurred on Tannerville Rd. South of Burkhart Rd Ext.