ASHLAND, Ohio – Ashland University’s version of TubaChristmas will be taking place this Saturday, Dec. 2, at Hugo Young Theatre. The concert, featuring traditional holiday favorites, is free and open to the public and will start at noon.
Hundreds, maybe even thousands, of TubaChristmas events take place throughout the world. The first such concert was held in 1974 and now ensembles everywhere take the opportunity to showcase seasonal melodies from tubas, euphoniums, baritones and sousaphones. Saturday’s TubaChristmas will mark the 18th held at Ashland.
Scott Garlock, professor of music at AU, will conduct TubaChristmas and encourages one and all to attend one of “the most unique and fun Christmas sounds that you can sing along with.”
He added, “It’s free, it’s fun and it’s festive.”
For more information, contact Scott Garlock at 419-289-5134 or sgarlock@ashland.edu.
Virginia Tactical Gear & Equipment company agrees to pay more than $2 million to settle allegations related to Buy American Act
COLUMBUS, Ohio – U.S. Attorney Kenneth L. Parker today announced that a Virginia-based tactical gear and equipment company has agreed to pay nearly $2.1 million to resolve False Claims Act allegations that it failed to comply with the requirements of the Buy American Act (“BAA”), Trade Agreements Act (“TAA”) and Berry Amendment when selling textile-based products to the Department of Defense.
London Bridge Trading Company, Ltd. (“LBT”) entered the settlement with the United States and qui tam relator Ann Keating.
The BAA was enacted in 1933 to protect U.S. manufacturing by creating a preference for domestic products when the federal government purchases supplies. The Berry Amendment requires certain items purchased by the Department of Defense to be 100% domestic in origin and mandates a higher level of domestic content than the Buy American Act. The TAA governs trade agreements between the United States and foreign countries and limits certain U.S. Government procurement to US-made products or products made in designated countries.
Court documents allege that since at least 2008, LBT submitted false claims in connection with the sale of “American-made” products that were actually manufactured in foreign countries, including Peru, Mexico and China. The company marketed its goods as “100% made in America” and replaced the original foreign manufacturers’ tags with tags that read “Made in USA.”
LBT also offered its products for sale to all federal agencies on the government-owned website “GSA Advantage!” that permits government agencies throughout the United States to purchase products from contracted vendors.
The United States, including through the Defense Logistics Agency’s supply center located in Columbus, purchased a variety of textile-based products from LBT, including clothing, armor, boots, belts, bags, rope, slings, backpacks and medical pouches. This settlement specifically addressed load-out bags purchased from LBT that violated the TAA and Berry Amendment.
The civil settlement includes the resolution of claims brought by an employee of LBT under the qui tam provisions of the False Claims Act. These provisions allow a private party, known as a relator, to file an action on behalf of the United States and receive a portion of any recovery. Under the terms of the settlement agreement the relator will receive a share of the proceeds.
The lawsuit is titled U.S. ex rel. Keating v. London Bridge Trading, et al. The relator in this case had a personal interest in the safety and security of the United States military; in 2004, the relator’s son was killed while serving in Iraq. The relator believes the scheme as alleged was a threat to the safety and integrity of U.S. military operations.
This matter was investigated by agents from the Department of Defense, Office of Inspector General, Defense Criminal Investigative Service’s Mid-Atlantic Field Office; Department of the Army Criminal Investigation Division, Major Procurement Fraud Field Office; General Services Administration, Office of Inspector General, Mid-Atlantic Division; Homeland Security Investigations; and Defense Logistics Agency working with the U.S. Attorneys’ offices in the Southern District of Ohio and Eastern District of Virginia.
“We greatly appreciate the steadfast, thorough, and collaborative work on this case by each of the federal agencies involved,” said U.S. Attorney Kenneth L. Parker. “This office takes very seriously the duty of government contractors to meet all of their obligations under government contracts and we will pursue anyone falsely certifying compliance with the Buy American Act.”
“GSA OIG will continue to work with its investigative partners and the Department of Justice to protect the integrity of GSA’s Multiple Award Schedule program and hold accountable those who attempt to defraud the government,” said Special Agent in Charge Elisa Pellegrini with the General Services Administration’s Office of Inspector General.
“We are very pleased with this resolution. This is a testament to the aggressive investigation we conducted, and now the public can see this.” said Andrew Johnson, Special Agent in Charge, Department of the Army Criminal Investigation Division, Major Procurement Fraud Field Office. “Companies that do business with the government must comply with all of their obligations, and if they seek to circumvent the rules and regulations of what and how they supply our women and men in uniform, they must be held accountable for their actions.”
Civil Chief Andrew M. Malek is representing the United States in this matter.
The claims resolved by the settlement are allegations only and there has been no determination of liability.
(COLUMBUS, Ohio)— Ohio Governor Mike DeWine, Lt. Governor Jon Husted, and Treasurer Robert Sprague today announced details of the Ohio Homebuyer Plus program, a new savings account plan designed to encourage homeownership in Ohio.
The program, which was first proposed by Governor DeWine in his 2023 State of the State address, will make specialized, tax-advantaged savings accounts available to Ohioans to assist them on their homebuying journey. Prospective homebuyers can open Ohio Homebuyer Plus accounts through participating financial institutions beginning in January.
“This savings account program is part of our work to holistically improve access to adequate, affordable housing in Ohio,” said Governor DeWine. “By making it easier for residents to save, we can help more Ohioans achieve their dreams of homeownership.”
The program is being created with support from the Ohio General Assembly as part of the state operating budget that Governor DeWine signed in July. The program will be administered by the Ohio Treasurer’s Office.
“Ohio is the best place to live, work, and raise a family, and we want to continue to create new opportunities to build a life in our state,” said Lt. Governor Husted. “With the challenges in today’s market, we are encouraging Ohioans through this program to think about their future here and to take the steps necessary to enhance their quality of life.”
Following the same “linked deposit” model used for existing programs like Ag-LINK and Family Forward, Ohio Homebuyer Plus will offer above-market interest rates to accountholders who deposit money at participating banks or credit unions. Additionally, individuals who open an account may also qualify for certain Ohio state income tax deductions.
“To own a home in Ohio is to invest in Ohio,” said Treasurer Sprague. “However, prospective homebuyers face no shortage of challenges in today’s market, including the increasing amounts needed for their down payments and closing costs. Through Ohio Homebuyer Plus, we’re putting the strength of the state’s balance sheet to work for Ohioans as they build their nest egg and the savings needed to make one of life’s most important purchases.”
To qualify for enhanced interest savings through an Ohio Homebuyer Plus account, an eligible accountholder must:
Be an Ohio resident at least 18 years of age;
Have a primary residence in the State of Ohio; and
Only use the account proceeds toward the down payment or closing costs of a primary residence purchased in Ohio.
Accounts connected with Ohio Homebuyer Plus must be used within five years, maintain a minimum balance of at least $100, and cannot exceed a maximum balance of $100,000.
Ohio Homebuyer Plus will launch in January 2024, with a specific launch date to be announced in the coming weeks.
Prospective homebuyers will work with a participating bank or credit union to apply for a savings account through Ohio Homebuyer Plus.
More information, including a list of participating financial institutions, will be shared upon the program’s launch in January at www.ohiotreasurer.gov.
Brian Mays Age: 38
White / Male / 5’10” / Brown Hair / Brown Eyes
Wanted by the U.S. Marshals Service and the Richland County Sheriff’s Office for possession of fentanyl.
Ties to Mansfield area.
Rafael Martinez Age: 39
White / Male / 5’8” / Black Hair / Brown Eyes
Wanted by the U.S. Marshals Service and the Richland County Sheriff’s Office for a bond violation on the original charges of trafficking in fentanyl, wanted by the adult parole authority on a parole violation on the original charge of rape.
Ties to Mansfield area.
Trenton Schoenman Age: 23
Black / Male / 5’10’’ / 164lbs / Brown Hair / Brown Eyes
Wanted by the U.S Marshals Service and Richland County Sheriff’s Office a probation violation on the original charges of weapons under disability, tampering with evidence, possession of drugs, and receiving stolen property.
Ties to Mansfield area.
David Greene Age: 38
White / Male / 6’0’ / 140lbs / Brown Hair / Hazel Eyes
Wanted by the U.S Marshals Service and Richland County Sheriff’s Office on the charge of failure to verify address on a sex offense (F1).
Ties to Mansfield and Galion area.
Reward money is available for information directly leading to an arrest. Anyone with information concerning any of these fugitives can contact the Northern Ohio Violent Fugitive Task Force office at 419-774-3565 or the tip line at 1-866-4WANTED (1-866-492-6833) or you can send a web tip at the following webpage http://www.usmarshals.gov/district/oh-n/index.html.
Tipsters may remain anonymous, and a cash reward may be available. The Task Force’s “Dangerous Dozen” fugitives can be viewed at https://www.usmarshals.gov/sites/default/files/media/document/dangerous-dozen.pdf, which is updated monthly.
The NOVFTF Akron Division consists of the following federal, state and local agencies:
United States Marshals Service, Mansfield Police Department, Ohio Adult Parole Authority, Richland County Probation, Richland County Sheriff’s Office, Ashland County Sheriff’s Office, Bucyrus Police Department, Galion Police Department, Huron County Sheriff’s Office, Lexington Police Department, Loudonville Police Department, Ohio State Highway Patrol, Ontario Police Department, Plymouth Police Department, Willard Police Department and Crestline Police Department.
ASHLAND – Ashland County Community Foundation is pleased to announce the recipients of its recently awarded Community Grants.
The board of trustees approved 33 grants totaling $357,342 for causes ranging from building improvements for nonprofit organizations to children’s concerts for the community.
“Each of these organizations has a plan as to meet needs and improve lives in Ashland County, and we are pleased to partner with them to fund these efforts,” said ACCF Chief Program Officer Kristin Aspin. “We extend our sincere gratitude to the donors who make these grants possible, as well as to the many nonprofit agencies doing great work in our community.”
Grants were awarded to the following organizations to support programs or projects of community-wide benefit:
A Kid Again received a grant to send Ashland County children with life-threatening conditions on adventures with their families.
ACCESS received a grant for a technology initiative to more effectively assist clients.
Adaptive Sports Ohio received a grant to provide Everyone Plays Kits to children with disabilities in Ashland County.
Advocates For Families received a grant to fund building improvements, including heating and cooling units and foundation work.
Ashland Center For Nonviolence at Ashland University received a grant to help bring Rev. Naomi Tutu to Ashland to speak.
Ashland Christian Health Center received a grant for a parking lot expansion project.
Ashland County Cancer Association received a grant to purchase local meat gift cards for cancer patients and their families.
Ashland County Wildlife Conservation League received a capstone grant for electrical equipment and installation at the Historic Homestead Log House.
Ashland Schine’s Theatre Organization received a capstone grant for the renovation of the Green Room Annex and Theatre Connector.
Ashland Soil & Water Conservation District received a grant to improve the parking area at the Hazel Willis Woods, an outdoor educational learning laboratory near Mifflin.
Ashland Special Needs Ministry received a grant to enhance the respite program.
Ashland Symphony Orchestra received a grant to provide a free school day concert for third graders and a free Young People’s Concert for children of all ages and their families.
Associated Charities received a grant to construct a laundry/utility room and restroom in the building’s warehouse area.
Eaglewings received a grant to cover rehab/recovery program fees for local residents and to assist participants with housing and transportation needs.
Junior Achievement of North Central Ohio received a grant to expose Ashland County students to career opportunities and pathways within local Ashland businesses.
Living Waters Outreach Ministry received a grant for materials and labor to replace the building’s roof.
Loudonville Church Women, Inc. received a grant to help families in need by providing free clothing and housewares, Christmas food and toys, and backpacks and school supplies.
Mohican Historical Society received a grant to develop an exhibit that will examine the life and legacy of Johnathan Chapman, also known as Johnny Appleseed.
Old Uniontown Quilt Guild received a grant for materials to provide quilts for local children in foster care.
Pathfinder Farms received a grant to purchase a cargo trailer for use as a remote headquarters during trips away from the farm.
Polk-Jackson-Perry Township Volunteer Fire Department received a grant to purchase CPR mannequins to provide training to the public.
Rape Crisis Domestic Violence Safe Haven received a grant to purchase a new outdoor playset and indoor furniture for use in the shelter.
Rise FM received a grant to help purchase a station vehicle.
Ronald McDonald House Charities of Central Ohio received a grant to support nights of rest and support services for Ashland County families while they are seeking medical care for their child in central Ohio.
Rowsburg Lions Club received a grant to replace the roof at the Rowsburg Community Center.
Southview Grace Brethren Church received a grant for lighting equipment and installation at the Wifflefest field and parking lot.
The Ground Truth Project / Report for America received a grant to help fund the position of a reporter at Ashland Source to cover the Ashland County community.
The Salvation Army received a grant to expand the youth music and performing arts program by providing more scholarships for families and renting The Ashland Theatre.
The Society for Handicapped Citizens of Medina County received a grant for new furniture at The Link Ashland.
United Church Residences of Ashland Ohio received a grant for a community room makeover at Mill Run Place.
Additionally, three organizations received Community Grant distributions in recognition of Hazel Myers Spreng. They include Ashland Public Library, First United Methodist Church and United Way of Ashland County.
ACCF’s Community Grants cycle is made possible by generous donations from our community. With a minimum of $10,000, paid at one time or over a period of five years, donors can create a named, permanently endowed fund designated specifically to support Community Grants.
“Our donors like this type of fund because it gives our foundation’s trusted staff and board members the ability to meet community needs by making grants to great local programs and projects every year, but at the same time, each individual fund can bear the donor’s own name, or the name of an honoree, to creating a lasting legacy,” said Jim Cutright, ACCF President/CEO.
To learn more about how you can join our list of more than 50 donors who have created such funds, contact Ashland County Community Foundation President/CEO Jim Cutright at (419) 281-4733 or cutty@ashlandforgood.org.
For information about our grant opportunities, visit www.ashlandforgood.org/grants.
About Ashland County Community Foundation: Ashland County Community Foundation advances philanthropy and improves the quality of life in Ashland County by connecting people who care with causes that matter. ACCF has awarded over $27 million in scholarships, grants and distributions.
Crider Road, between Koogle Road and State Route 603 in Mifflin Township, will be closed starting Monday, December 4, 2023, for a bridge replacement project.
The road is currently scheduled to reopen on July 31, 2024.
The posted detour route will utilize Koogle Road, US Route 30, and
The Ohio Highway Patrol has released the provisional statistics for the 2023 Thanksgiving holiday, revealing a positive decline in fatalities on the state’s roadways.
According to the report, there were a total of seven crashes resulting in the unfortunate loss of eight lives. However, this marks the fewest deaths recorded since 2018 during the Thanksgiving period.
The five-day reporting period, which began on Wednesday, November 22 at midnight and ended on Sunday, November 26 at 11:59 p.m., saw one fatality attributed to the absence of a safety belt. Additionally, impaired driving played a factor in one of the crashes.
During this time, Ohio Highway Patrol troopers were vigilant in enforcing road safety measures, resulting in the arrest of 319 individuals for operating a vehicle while impaired. Furthermore, 111 people were apprehended for illegal drug-related offenses.
The report also highlights the importance of adhering to safety protocols, as troopers issued 526 citations for safety belt violations and 181 citations for distracted driving. In a display of dedication to public service, the Ohio Highway Patrol also assisted 1,567 motorists throughout the holiday reporting period.
These statistics reflect the state’s commitment to ensuring the safety and well-being of all individuals traveling on Ohio’s roadways. Continued efforts to enforce traffic regulations, combat impaired driving, and promote responsible behavior are key priorities for the Ohio Highway Patrol.
A statistical analysis of the Patrol’s enforcement activity over the holiday is available here.
Motorists are encouraged to call #677 to report impaired drivers, drug activity or stranded motorists.
Listen up everyone, this is crucial information that you need to be aware of. The Middletown Division of Police recently took to social media to share a vital update regarding your privacy and iPhone usage. If you’re an iPhone user who has recently updated to iOS 17, then you need to pay close attention to this.
Apple has introduced a new feature called NameDrop, which allows for seamless sharing of contact information and photos between iPhones. While this may seem convenient, it’s important to note that this feature comes enabled by default. Yes, that’s right, NameDrop is automatically turned ON, leaving your personal information vulnerable.
Now, here’s what you need to do to protect your privacy. Open your iPhone’s Settings and navigate to the General section. From there, click on AirDrop, followed by Bringing Devices Together. Finally, make sure to switch the feature to OFF. It’s a simple step that can make a world of difference in safeguarding your personal information.
But hold on, parents, this message isn’t just for you. If you have kids with iPhones, it’s crucial that you take a moment to adjust these settings on their devices as well. By doing so, you’ll play an active role in keeping your children safe and secure online.
Remember, privacy is of utmost importance, so let’s take action and protect ourselves and our loved ones. Stay vigilant, folks!
Brian Mays Age: 38
Rafael Martinez Age: 39
Trenton Schoenman Age: 23
David Greene Age: 38
ASHLAND – Ashland County Community Foundation is pleased to announce the recipients of its recently awarded Community Grants.
Crider Road, between Koogle Road and State Route 603 in Mifflin Township, will be closed starting Monday, December 4, 2023, for a bridge replacement project.
Joe Lyons •
November 28, 2023
