New Visitor Center Takes Shape at Mohican State Park
Loudonville, OH – Construction on the highly anticipated new visitor center at Mohican State Park has reached a major milestone, with large structural beams now being put in place. Residents and park visitors can now see the framework of the new building taking shape at 3116 OH-3 in Loudonville.
The Ohio Department of Natural Resources (ODNR) project, which is designed to enhance visitor experiences while blending seamlessly with the park’s natural beauty.
“This facility is designed to blend seamlessly with the park’s natural beauty while providing modern amenities and educational opportunities for our visitors,” said ODNR Director Mary Mertz. “It will enhance the overall experience for everyone who comes to explore and enjoy one of Ohio’s most cherished parks.”
The new visitor center is being constructed by OakBridge Timberframing, a renowned timber frame company specializing in high-quality craftsmanship. More about their work can be found on their website: OakBridge Timberframing or via their social media:
Strategically located near the park’s main entrance, the visitor center will be a prominent feature visible from the roadway. Nestled beside the scenic Clear Fork of the Mohican River, the site offers a picturesque setting while remaining accessible to visitors. Its design includes an extended, low-slope ramp leading to the entrance, flanked by rain gardens and gathering spaces that provide interactive educational opportunities.
The new center will include a grand entrance with flood-mitigating landscaping, shaded porches, and a fireplace, creating a welcoming space for visitors to relax and enjoy the outdoors. Inside, the facility will feature a central exhibit space with two extending wings—one housing restrooms and a merchandise area, and the other dedicated to staff support, storage, and mechanical spaces. Multiple entry points from the parking lot and campground will ensure easy access, and a main vestibule will allow off-hours access to restrooms and drinking fountains.
Drawing inspiration from traditional forest lodges, the building’s design will incorporate olive green siding over a stone base, echoing the park’s natural rock formations. A steeply sloped roof with dormers will bring in natural light, while timber trusses, stone chimneys, and inviting porches will complete the lodge-like aesthetic.
Honoring Mohican’s History and Natural Beauty
As one of Ohio’s most visited state parks, Mohican State Park holds a deep historical and ecological significance. Once a hunting ground for the Delaware nation, it now offers outdoor enthusiasts a range of activities, including hiking, biking, horseback riding, and paddling. The park also hosts naturalist programs that educate visitors about the region’s diverse plant and animal life.
“The Mohican area has an amazing story to tell, and we are proud to share that story with Ohioans of all ages in the new visitor center,” said Park Manager Jenny Roar. “This exciting project will inspire future generations and provide a place for visitors to learn about the history, conservation practices, and recreational opportunities of this beautiful region.”
The new visitor center is expected to be completed in fall 2025, promising to be a key destination for nature lovers and history enthusiasts alike.
Thanks to Mervin Hostetler of Tin Roof Studios for capturing close-up photos of the construction progress. His work can be found at:
Male Arrested After Making Verbal Threats, Resulting in Soft Lockdown of Local Hospital
On 01/29/25, at approximately 11:03 am, officers from the Ontario Police Department responded to a call regarding a male suspect making verbal threats at Avita Hospital, located at the Richland Mall location. The suspect, later identified as a 65 year old white male, allegedly made threatening statements towards hospital staff, prompting immediate concerns for the safety of employees and patients.
As a precautionary measure and following established security protocols, hospital administrators initiated a soft lockdown, temporarily limiting access to and from the premises while security personnel worked with law enforcement to assess the situation. The lockdown was enacted to ensure the safety of all individuals within the hospital and to facilitate a thorough investigation.
Officers arrived on scene promptly, and after a brief investigation, the suspect was located and taken into custody without incident. The individual was charged with Inducing Panic and Aggravated Menacing. No injuries were reported, and the lockdown was lifted once the situation was resolved.
“We take all threats, whether verbal or otherwise, very seriously,” said Chief Tommy Hill. “The safety of the public, hospital staff, and patients is our top priority, and we will continue to work with local institutions to ensure that these environments remain secure.”
To be very clear as we have heard what is being shared via social media, there was not an active shooter incident at the Avita Hospital or Richland Mall.
The Ashland County Sheriff’s Office asking for your help in identifying this woman. If you have information as to the identity or location of the woman in this picture , please call 419-289-8362.
Former Ashland County Detective Arrested on Multiple Charges, Held Without Bond
Ashland County, OH – A former detective with the Ashland County Sheriff’s Office has been arrested and is now being held without bond after allegedly violating the conditions of his release.
Joshua W. Duewel, a former law enforcement officer, was initially arrested and charged with multiple offenses stemming from a January 9, 2025, incident, including:
Improperly Handling Firearms in a Motor Vehicle (Fifth-degree felony) – for allegedly transporting a loaded handgun while under the influence.
Operating a Vehicle Under the Influence (OVI) (First-degree misdemeanor) – for allegedly driving while impaired.
Failure to Stop After an Accident (First-degree misdemeanor) – for allegedly leaving the scene of a crash without providing the necessary information.
Operating a Vehicle Without Reasonable Control (Minor misdemeanor) – for allegedly failing to maintain control of his vehicle.
Open Container Violation (Minor misdemeanor) – for allegedly possessing an open container of alcohol in a motor vehicle.
Duewel was taken into custody and appeared in court on January 10, where his bond was set at $10,000. He was released after posting bond on January 13 but was subject to multiple conditions, including a ban on alcohol and drug use, random drug testing, and the surrender of his firearms.
However, on January 28, Judge David R. Stimpert found that Duewel had violated the conditions of his bond by failing to report for scheduled drug screenings on January 24 and January 27, and by failing to call into the random drug testing phone line on January 28. As a result, the court revoked his bond and issued a bench warrant for his arrest.
Duewel is now being held in the Ashland County Jail without bond as he awaits his next court hearing, scheduled for February 19, 2025, at 1:00 PM before Magistrate Paul T. Lange.
Ashland County Sheriff’s Office Executes Third Search Warrant at U.S. Route 42 Residence
West Salem, OH – For the third time in just over two years, law enforcement officials have executed a search warrant at 16 U.S. Route 42 in Ashland County. The Ashland County Sheriff’s Office, in coordination with the Ashland Police Division, carried out the most recent operation on Tuesday, January 28, 2025, at approximately 7:30 a.m.
Sheriff Kurt J. Schneider confirmed in a press release that the search led to the seizure of undisclosed evidence, which is now undergoing forensic analysis. Authorities also took one individual, Ms. Susan Canfield, into custody on an outstanding warrant issued by the Ashland Municipal Court.
This marks the third law enforcement action at the residence, following previous search warrants executed on November 1, 2022, and August 4, 2023. Officials have not yet disclosed what prompted the latest search, but the Ashland County Prosecuting Attorney is currently reviewing possible additional charges.
No injuries were reported during the operation.
“The successful execution of this warrant and seizure of criminal evidence at that residence is a testament to the commitment by local law enforcement to holding criminal behavior accountable to the law,” Sheriff Schneider stated. “The Ashland County Sheriff’s Office would like to thank the public for their vigilance in continued support by providing information to law enforcement related to criminal behavior.”
Doomsday Clock Ticks to 89 Seconds to Midnight, Marking Highest-Ever Risk Level
January 28, 2025 – The Doomsday Clock now stands at 89 seconds to midnight, the closest it has ever been to signaling global catastrophe in its 78-year history, according to the Bulletin of the Atomic Scientists’ Science and Security Board. The announcement was made today at the U.S. Institute of Peace in Washington, D.C., warning of an unprecedented level of global risk.
The Doomsday Clock, established in 1947, was designed as a symbolic measure of how close humanity is to self-destruction due to existential threats, including nuclear weapons, climate change, and emerging technologies. The concept was introduced by Albert Einstein, Manhattan Project director J. Robert Oppenheimer, and scientists from the University of Chicago—many of whom played key roles in the development of the first atomic bomb. Initially set at seven minutes to midnight, the clock has been adjusted multiple times over the years, moving forward and backward in response to global events.
The furthest the minute hand has ever been from midnight was in 1991, when it was pushed back to 17 minutes amid nuclear disarmament efforts between then-U.S. President George H.W. Bush and Soviet President Mikhail Gorbachev. However, in recent years, escalating tensions, geopolitical instability, climate crises, and emerging threats such as biological and cyber warfare have brought the clock dangerously close to the midnight mark.
For nearly eight decades, the Bulletin of the Atomic Scientists, a nonprofit media organization composed of world leaders, scientists, and Nobel laureates, has made the annual decision on the clock’s setting. In recent years, concerns have expanded beyond nuclear conflict to include climate change, artificial intelligence, and global pandemics—all of which continue to shape the ever-growing risks facing humanity.
Ashland’s Sergeant Cristian Perrin Promoted to Lieutenant
ASHLAND – A familiar face in the Ashland community, Sergeant Cristian Perrin, has officially been promoted to the rank of lieutenant, according to a press release from the Ohio State Highway Patrol. Ashland County residents and the team at the Ashland Post will undoubtedly miss seeing Lieutenant Perrin around, but the community wishes him all the best in his new role as post commander at the Wooster Post.
Lieutenant Perrin’s promotion was formalized on December 29 and recognized during a ceremony held today at the Patrol’s Training Academy, with Ohio State Highway Patrol Superintendent Colonel Charles A. Jones officiating the event.
Lieutenant Perrin began his career with the Patrol in May 2009 as part of the 149th Academy Class. After earning his commission in December of the same year, he was assigned to the Hamilton Post. Over the years, he demonstrated exceptional dedication, serving in the Wilmington District Criminal Patrol Unit and earning numerous accolades, including being named Post Trooper of the Year and District Trooper of the Year in 2012. He also received the Criminal Patrol Award an impressive nine times.
In 2019, Lieutenant Perrin was promoted to sergeant and joined the Ashland Post as assistant post commander. His leadership and commitment to public safety have been widely recognized throughout his tenure.
Beyond his career with the Patrol, Lieutenant Perrin has notable academic and military achievements. He earned a Bachelor of Science degree in criminal justice management from Union Institute & University in 2018. Additionally, he served in the United States Army from 2003 to 2011, including a combat tour in 2008 during Operation Iraqi Freedom.
The Ohio State Highway Patrol, an internationally accredited agency, commended Lieutenant Perrin’s promotion as part of its mission to provide professional public safety services through inclusion, collaboration, and innovation.
As Ashland bids farewell to Lieutenant Perrin, the community expresses its gratitude for his service and wishes him continued success in his new leadership role in Wooster.
Please join us in congratulating the newly promoted members of the Ohio State Highway Patrol. Back row (L-R): Sergeant Darius Patterson, Lieutenant Jacob Landis, Lieutenant Bridget Matt, Lieutenant Cristian Perrin, Sergeant Benjamin Barnard, and Courtney Franklin. Front row (L-R): Sergeant Jacob McGill, Sergeant Brian Parsons, Staff Lieutenant Todd Roberts, Sergeant Seth Oszust and Sergeant Jeremy Border.
Tanker Crash Closes Westbound US-Route 30 in Ashland County
ASHLAND COUNTY, OH — Emergency responders were called to a serious crash involving a semi-truck on US-Route 30 westbound, just west of Township Road 405 and east of County Road 2175, around 5:00 PM this evening.
The semi-truck, a 2024 Freightliner driven by David Guthrie, 62, of North Manchester, Indiana, was hauling 5,000 gallons of Whey Protein Concentrate when it crashed. The collision caused the tanker to rupture, spilling an undetermined amount of its contents. The truck also sustained damage to its fuel tanks, leading to a diesel spill of multiple gallons.
Authorities on the scene included the Ashland Post of the Ohio State Highway Patrol, Ashland County Sheriff’s Office, Jeromesville Fire Department & EMS, Hayesville Fire Department, and Ashland Fire Department.
Ashland Emergency Management Agency (EMA) and the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) were called in to assess the scene. The Department of Transportation (DOT) also responded to facilitate the closure of the westbound lane of US-Route 30.
The westbound lanes will remain closed throughout the night as crews work to address the environmental hazards, repair the bridge’s guardrail, and remove the wreckage. Aber’s Towing & Crane Service has been dispatched to assist with clearing the crash site.
Guthrie was transported to a local hospital with injuries. His current condition has not been disclosed.
The cause of the crash remains under investigation. Motorists are advised to avoid the area and seek alternate routes.
Mansfield Woman Arrested for Threats Against Clear Fork Schools
MANSFIELD, OH – A Mansfield woman was arrested early Friday morning following a series of concerning social media posts threatening violence at Clear Fork School.
Tamara D. Sylvester-Neighbors, 29, was taken into custody at her residence around 6 a.m. and booked into the Richland County Jail on a second-degree felony charge of inducing panic after a tip regarding a Facebook posts was reported.
The incident began on January 24, 2025, when the Richland County Sheriff’s Office received a report about Sylvester-Neighbors’ alarming social media activity. According to the report, Sylvester-Neighbors made multiple posts referencing violence, including one that mentioned bringing a firearm to a Clear Fork school. One post specifically stated:
“What the [expletive] is an open door policy? Me asking politely. Also, I can bring in a football to the secretary. Could easily bring a gun and shoot Ms. Sally in the head.”
Although Sylvester-Neighbors added in the comments, “Not a threat,” and tagged the Bellville Police Department.
Deputies worked quickly to locate Sylvester-Neighbors. They reviewed her social media posts, interviewed concerned citizens, and coordinated with local police departments in Bellville and Butler.
When deputies arrived at Sylvester-Neighbors’ residence, she admitted to making the posts but denied intending harm. Instead, she claimed her posts were intended to highlight security vulnerabilities at the schools. Despite her explanation, Sylvester-Neighbors was arrested and transported to the Richland County Jail.
Interim Superintendent John Thomas of the Clear Fork Valley Local School District assured parents and community members in an email:
“The school was made aware that an individual posted remarks on social media that were threatening and harassing in nature to our students, staff, and school. Law enforcement was called, and the situation has been resolved. As always, the safety and well-being of our students, staff, and school is our highest priority.”
In addition, Clear Fork High School Principal Jennifer Klaus issued a formal ban prohibiting Sylvester-Neighbors from entering school property or attending extracurricular activities.
Sylvester-Neighbors is currently being held pending arraignment on the felony charge of inducing panic. The Richland County Prosecutor’s Office has recommended a $7,500 bond for the second-degree felony charge.
Sheriff Sheldon commended the collaborative effort between law enforcement and school officials, saying, “The dedication of our staff, along with the cooperation of Clear Fork Schools and local police departments, ensured the safety of students and staff while resolving this situation quickly.”
This incident highlights the importance of immediate action in addressing threats of violence in schools, with law enforcement urging community members to report any suspicious activity immediately.
Milton Township – Troopers from the Ashland Highway Patrol Post are investigating a fatal crash which occurred on U.S. 42 near State Route 603 in Ashland County, Ohio.
On Thursday, January 23, 2025 at approximately 6:50 PM, a maroon 2003 Honda CRV was southwest on U.S. 42, south of S.R. 603. A blue 2022 Peterbuilt semi-truck and flatbed trailer was turning left from a private drive onto U.S. 42 and began to drive northeast. The Honda CRV struck the left rear of the trailer which was partially in the southwest lane.
The driver of the Honda CRV, Gail Anne Moore, 77 years old of Ashland, Ohio was pronounced deceased at the scene. The driver of the Peterbuilt semi-truck, Glenn Dale Snead, 60 years old of Noblesville, Indiana was not injured.
Both drivers were wearing their seatbelts at the time of the crash. Drugs or alcohol do not appear to be a factor. The crash remains under investigation and charges are pending review by the Ashland Municipal Court.
Assisting at the scene were: the Ashland County Sheriff’s Office, Ashland City Fire and EMS, Ashland Coroner’s Office and Bate’s Garage & Towing.
The roadway was closed for approximately 3 hours.
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Joe Lyons •
January 29, 2025
