Joe Lyons

Ohio Lt. Governor Jon Husted harvested an eight-point whitetail buck

Reminds Fellow Hunters Gun Season Starts November 27th and Meat Can Be Donated to Those in Need

(MORROW COUNTY, Ohio)—Ohio Lt. Governor Jon Husted harvested an eight-point whitetail buck in Morrow County last week with a 10-point crossbow made right here in Ohio.

“I love crossbow hunting during the fall,” said Lt. Governor Husted. “The weather is mild, the trees are beautiful, the harvesting of crops is active, the aroma in the air is refreshing, and there is so much activity in the outdoors with the animals in the forest actively preparing for winter. It’s peaceful and wonderful.”

An avid hunter, this isn’t the Lt. Governor’s first harvest. He learned to hunt at a young age from his father, Jim, and harvested his first deer at the age of 14.

The Lt. Governor said the key to this bag was “patience.” The deer was taken to Trailside Custom Meats in Kenton, where they will process it into steaks, burgers, bologna, and deer sticks.

Second Lady Tina Husted shares the Lt. Governor’s excitement for the harvest. “Jon’s avid hunting has blessed our family over the years, filling our freezer with high-quality Ohio deer meat that will nourish our family in the winter months. I make a mean deer stew, and I’m looking forward to that first meal from this harvest.”

The Lt. Governor isn’t the only hunter in the family. Two years ago, his daughter, Katie, harvested a 12-point buck in Clark County.

One of Ohio’s most anticipated fall traditions begins soon during the annual white-tailed deer gun hunting seasons. Ohio’s youth hunting season is Saturday and Sunday, Nov. 18-19. Gun hunters of all ages can participate in the upcoming seven-day gun season from Monday, Nov. 27 through Sunday, Dec. 3. A bonus weekend of gun hunting will take place Dec. 16-17; muzzleloader season is Jan. 6-9, 2024. Ohio’s archery season runs through Sunday, Feb. 4, 2024. Legal hunting implements during the gun seasons include shotguns, straight-walled cartridge rifles, muzzleloaders, handguns, and archery equipment.

All hunters, regardless of the implement they use, are required to wear hunter orange during the gun seasons. Learn more by reading the 2023-24 hunting and trapping regulations and visiting the Ohio Department of Natural Resources (ODNR) Division of Wildlife’s hunting webpage.

Hunters who harvest a deer and would like to donate the venison through Farmers and Hunters Feeding the Hungry can bring it to one of 26 certified deer processing shops in Ohio. Each donated deer is provided to a verified charitable organization that offers food assistance. One harvested deer yields approximately 50 pounds of venison and 200 meals. Find the complete list of processors accepting donations of harvested deer at feedingthehungry.org. Hunters who donate their deer are not required to pay for the processing of the venison.

Reviving History: A First-Person Experience at Genesis Christian Academy

Step into the captivating world of Genesis Christian Academy History class, where teacher Ken Hammontree brings the past to life with an audacious twist.


In Genesis Christian Academy’s history classes, the teaching method employed by their dedicated teacher takes education to the next level.

As Ken Hammontree, the history teacher, walked through the doors at Genesis Christian Academy, dressed and looking like Tecumseh, it was as if a spark ignited within the students. Their eyes lit up, and fingers eagerly pointed in astonishment.

Addressing the class in a professional tone of voice, Ken Hammontree began sharing the captivating story of Tecumseh.

He conveyed, “Although Tecumseh, The Panther crossing the sky, met his untimely fate at the Battle of Thames in 1813, and his vision of a great Indian Confederacy was shattered, his reputation as a remarkable leader remains etched in history.”

With an air of authenticity, Ken Hammontree transported his students back in time, enabling them to witness the struggles faced by Tecumseh and his people, the Shawnees. He elucidated upon Tecumseh’s critical juncture in the spring of 1813 when only two options lay before him and his tribe: assimilate into the white man’s culture or resist until their ultimate demise in battle.

Neither alternative appeared appealing to Tecumseh; nevertheless, with unyielding courage, he and the remaining members of his pan-Indian confederation chose to fight fiercely against the corrupt culture imposed by the white man.

This immersive and personalized teaching approach employed by Ken Hammontree further enhances the students’ understanding and appreciation of historical events, instilling within them a profound connection to the past.

Patrol Investigating Multiple-Vehicle Fatal Crash

UPDATE 1: Patrol investigating multiple-vehicle fatal crash

UPDATE #1: The Ohio State Highway Patrol continues to investigate this crash. The following information is being updated:

A commercial vehicle belonging to Wapakoneta-based G.A. Wintzer & Sons, driven by Brandon Marchal, 37, Wapakoneta, was struck during the crash. A passenger vehicle driven by Robert Wolverton, 75, Heath, was also struck. The bus belonging to Millersburg-based Pioneer Trails was operated by Donald Wagler, 65, Hartville. The commercial vehicle which caught fire belonged to Hebron-based Mid-State Systems and was driven by Jacob McDonald, 60, Zanesville.

All drivers received injuries as a result of the crash.

ETNA TOWNSHIP – The Granville Post of the Ohio State Highway Patrol is investigating a fatal crash involving a charter bus, two commercial vehicles and two passenger vehicles in Etna Township, Licking County. The crash occurred on Interstate 70 near state Route 310 at 8:52 a.m.

At this time, the investigation has revealed the vehicles were all traveling westbound on I-70 when the chain-reaction crash occurred. At least three of the vehicles subsequently caught fire as a result of the crash.

The charter bus was occupied by a driver and 54 students and chaperones from Tuscarawas Valley Local Schools.

Three of the passengers on the bus were pronounced deceased at the scene. The deceased were identified as John W. Mosely, 18, Mineral City, Jeffery D. Worrell, 18, Bolivar, and Katelyn N. Owens, 15, Mineral City. A total of 15 students and the bus driver were transported to area hospitals. The remaining students were taken to a reunification site.

One of the passenger vehicles was occupied by three individuals. All three were pronounced deceased at the scene. The deceased were identified as Dave Kennat, 56, Navarre, Kristy Gaynor, 39, Zoar, and Shannon Wigfield, 45, Bolivar.

Of the two commercial vehicles involved, one driver was transported to Ohio-Health Grant Medical Center with non-life-threatening injuries. The other was treated and released at the scene. The driver of the second passenger vehicle was also transported to an area hospital.

The crash remains under investigation. Anyone who witnessed the crash is asked to contact the Ohio State Highway Patrol at (614) 466-2660.

The Ohio State Highway Patrol was assisted by and would like to thank Licking County Sheriff Randy Thorp and Licking County deputies, Tuscarawas Sheriff Orvis Campbell and Tuscarawas County deputies, West Licking Fire Department and EMS, Licking County Coroner’s Office, Jae’s Towing, Ohio Department of Transportation, and multiple other agencies.

Local Teachers Receive Grants for Innovative Projects

ASHLAND – Ashland City Schools Foundation and Ashland County Community Foundation are pleased to announce the recipients of their fall semester teacher mini-grants.

These mini-grants will allow 19 Ashland County educators to implement innovative programs and projects to advance student learning, both in and outside their classrooms.

Grants totaled $5,570 from ACSF and $15,344 from ACCF. The following teachers received grants from one or both foundations:

Ashland City Schools Foundation

Mariely Dawson, Ashland High School, received a grant for Genius Games for Chemistry Bonding Development.

Brian Krieger, Ashland High School, received a grant for The Whole World in Our Hands: Teaching Geography with Interactive Globes.

Linda Michael, Ashland Middle School, received a grant for Leveled Reading for Science Literacy.

Tiffany Sauder, Edison Elementary School, received a grant for Fantastic Fine Motor Skills.

Alexis Solet, Ashland City Schools, received a grant for Learning Life at the Wertman Property: Promoting Life Skills in Students with Disabilities.

Ashland City Schools Foundation and Ashland County Community Foundation

Alayna Shafer, Edison Elementary School, received grants for 3D Pens for the Art Room.

Ashland County Community Foundation

Carly Black, Hillsdale High School, received a grant for Plot Twist! We’re Podcasting!

Rachel Burgett, Taft Intermediate School, received a grant for Intentional Seating to Increase Learning.

Amber Haldeman, Ashland Middle School, received a grant for Building A Collaborative Math Classroom.

Shari Harlan, Edison Elementary School, received a grant for Math in Action.

Carol Hinkle, McMullen Elementary School, received a grant for New art tables for McMullen Elementary.

Thomas Howman, Edison Elementary School, received a grant for Learning Through Music in the General Education Classroom.

Bailey Jones, Edison Elementary School, received a grant for Sensory Success for all Learners.

Marty Kral, Ashland High School, received a grant for Band Tower Amplification.

Molly Kramer, Dale Roy School, received a grant for Discovery Classroom for Children with Multiple Disabilities.

Nicole Krieger, Taft Intermediate School, received a grant for Teaching Content, Engaging Readers, and Teaching Skills: A Three-In-One Project!

David Lance, Loudonville High School, received a grant for Mentor Leaders.

Kelly Owens, Ashland High School, received a grant for Veteran Hero Blanket Project.

Shelby Pummell, Edison Elementary School, received a grant for Interactive Read Alouds.

Ashland City Schools Foundation and Ashland County Community Foundation accept applications for teacher mini-grants each semester, with deadlines in September and January. Grant requests should be for programs and projects that are not covered by school budgets.

For spring semester 2024 grants, any K-12 teacher from any school in Ashland County may apply online at www.ashlandforgood.org/grants by January 15. Applicants from the Ashland City School district will be considered for ACSF grants, and all applicants will be considered for ACCF grants. Questions should be directed to Kristin Aspin, Chief Program Officer, Ashland County Community Foundation, at (419) 281-4733 or krisin@ashlandforgood.org.

About Ashland City Schools Foundation: Ashland City Schools Foundation promotes excellence in academics, the arts and athletics while providing educational opportunities for all students and educators in the Ashland City School District. ACSF has disbursed nearly $1 million to support the students of Ashland City Schools.

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.

Ashland Police Appoint Part-Time Officer

On November 8, 2023, Mayor Matt Miller administered the oath of office to new part-time Police Officer Marcus “Nate” Haring.

Haring, 38, of Ashland, is a United States Army veteran with a Bachelor of Arts degree from The Ohio State University. He has ten years of experience as a Patrol Officer with the Lorain Police Department and is currently an Auxiliary Officer with the Loudonville Police Department.

Nate works full-time as a REALTOR® with Haring Realty.

Having prior law enforcement experience, Haring will shadow trainers for several months to learn organizational procedures while becoming more familiar with operations.

Haring is excited about the opportunity to work in public safety for the City of Ashland and hopes to compete for a full-time position when one becomes available.

Presently, the Ashland Police Division staffs thirty-two full-time and three part-time police officers. The Division is authorized to employ four part-time sworn personnel.

Fugitives of the Week November 13, 2023

Derrick HawkinsDerrick Hawkins Age: 49
Black / Male / 5’10’’ / 200lbs / Brown Hair / Brown Eyes
Wanted by the U.S Marshals Service and Adult Parole Authority for a parole violation on the original charge of aggravated robbery.
Ties to Mansfield area.

 

Kristopher HerronKristopher Herron Age: 51
White / Male / 5’’6’ / 130lbs / Brown Hair / Blue Eyes
Wanted by the U.S Marshals Service on a supervised release violation on the original charge of possession of drugs.
Ties to Mansfield area.

 

Katrina CoyneKatrina Coyne Age: 33
White / female / 5’6” / Black Hair / Brown Eyes
Wanted by the U.S. Marshals Service and the Richland County Sheriff’s Office for possession of drugs F3.
Ties to Mansfield and Galion area.

 

Shkail WalkerShkail Walker Age: 22
Black / Male / 5’7’’ / 140lbs / Black Hair / Black Eyes
Wanted by the U.S Marshals Service and Richland County Sheriff’s Office for illegal conveyance.
Ties to the Mansfield and Columbus 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.

The Devastating Reality of Domestic Violence

Richland County – In a chilling incident that unfolded on Saturday November, 11th the Richland County Sheriff’s Office responded to a report of suspicious activity. Little did they know that this call would lead them to uncover the horrifying realities of domestic violence. The severity of the situation was so severe that the Ohio Bureau of Criminal Investigation was called in to process the scene.

At 5:09 pm, a Richland County Sheriff’s Office Deputy received a report of suspicious activity from dispatch. According to the Sheriff’s report, the deputy immediately made contact with the reporting party, who informed them that a victim had just been brought to the Avita Hospital emergency room with severe bruises, as if someone had brutally beaten her. Disturbingly, the victim couldn’t remember what had happened.

The victim, whose identity is being protected, exhibited signs of brutal physical assault. The attending doctor described the extent of the injuries, including swollen shut eyes, bruises behind the ears suggesting possible skull fractures, bleeding from the ears, and bruising on the inner thighs, indicating potential sexual assault. The victim also bore bruises and swelling on the neck, indicating strangulation.

The reporting party informed the deputy that the victim had last made contact on November 9, 2023, but subsequent attempts to reach her had failed. Concerned about her well-being, the reporting party contacted William Smith, who claimed that the victim was asleep and would call back later. However, the victim never returned the call.

This wasn’t the first instance of alleged domestic violence in the relationship.

The reporting party revealed that the victim had suffered a black eye a month ago, dismissing it as an accident resulting from playful roughhousing with William Smith. The friend further divulged that Smith was not only possessive of the victim but also displayed controlling behavior towards her entire family. The victim was not allowed to visit friends or interact with her nieces and nephews. Shockingly, it was revealed that Smith had even placed a tracker on the victim’s phone to monitor her every move.

When asked about the duration of the relationship between the victim and William Smith, the reporting party shared that they had been together, on and off, for several years and had been cohabiting at the listed location for approximately 6 to 9 months. The victim’s reluctance to take action against Smith stemmed from her fear of him returning to prison. Smith was currently on parole, and the victim did not want to bear the responsibility for his incarceration.

Authorities wasted no time in apprehending the suspected offender, William Smith, the 40-year-old male 6’2 and weighing 224lbs and is now incarcerated in the Richland County Jail. He is charged with rape, felonious assault, and probation violation. This arrest provides a glimmer of hope for the victim, as she can now pursue justice and begin her journey towards healing and recovery.

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In conclusion, the Richland County Sheriff’s Office deputy’s encounter with a suspicious activity call exposed a distressing case of domestic violence. This incident serves as a stark reminder of the urgent need to address and eliminate domestic violence from our society. By supporting victims, raising awareness, and fostering a culture of respect, we can work towards a world free from the horrors of domestic abuse.

Ohio continues into peak time for deer-related crashes

                                                                                             Photo from a Pick-up versus a 6-point Buck on US 30 yesterday

COLUMBUS – AAA, Ohio State Highway Patrol, Ohio Department of Insurance, Ohio Department of Transportation, Ohio Department of Natural Resources and the Ohio Turnpike and Infrastructure Commission want to remind motorists of the increase in deer-related traffic crashes this time of year.

Since 2018, statistics from the Ohio State Highway Patrol show there were 104,328 deer-related crashes on Ohio’s roadways. While 95% of deer-related crashes only resulted in property damage, 33 crashes resulted in fatal injuries to motorists, with a total 34 people being killed. Additionally, 47% of these crashes occurred in October, November and December.

“Ohio drivers should keep in mind that deer activity always increases during this time of year – especially at dawn and dusk,” said Governor Mike DeWine. “With Ohio’s strengthened distracted driving laws now in place, we anticipate that more drivers will stay alert to their surroundings, and as a result, we hope fewer deer-related crashes will take place this fall.”

At least 50 deer-related crashes happened in each county, with the highest taking place in Stark, Richland, Hancock and Defiance counties. The routes with the most deer-related crashes were U.S. Route 30, state Route 2, Interstate 71, Interstate 75 and Interstate 77.

“You’re more likely to spot deer when you practice safe driving habits and have your full attention on the roadway,” said Colonel Charles A. Jones, Patrol superintendent. “If you happen to strike a deer, if you’re able, move yourself to a safe place, turn on your hazards and report the crash.”

According to the Ohio Department of Natural Resources (ODNR) Division of Wildlife, deer become visibly active in October, November and December. This is due in large part to the fall breeding season, which sometimes causes deer to dart into roadways with little caution. This unpredictable movement leads to an increase in deer-related vehicle crashes. Drivers are encouraged to be extra cautious in areas where fencerows, riparian corridors or other blocks of forested habitat intersect a roadway.

“With deer activity on the rise, it’s extra important at this time of year to watch for deer,” said Division of Wildlife Chief Kendra Wecker. “Deer often move in groups, so if you see one, slow down and be prepared for more to cross the road.”

On average, the Ohio Department of Transportation and the Ohio Turnpike and Infrastructure Commission remove more than 13,000 deer carcasses from our roadways each year.

Cost of Deer-Vehicle Collisions:

Colliding with a deer is not only dangerous, it’s also increasingly costly. Recent data estimates the average insurance claim for a deer-vehicle collision in Ohio is nearly $5,000. Vehicle sensors found on newer vehicles continue to increase repair costs. In fact, AAA found these new safety systems can double repair bills for minor collisions. The included graphic depicts the estimated repair costs for various vehicle sensors (more information at Newsroom.AAA.com). Without adequate insurance, drivers are left paying the bill. This is why it’s important to make sure you’re covered before a crash occurs.

“In the event of an accident, it’s important to have adequate insurance for financial protection,” Ohio Department of Insurance Director Judith L. French said. “Now is the time for Ohioans to contact their insurance agents to complete an insurance review.”
 
AAA and the Ohio Department of Insurance remind drivers that the optional comprehensive coverage (also known as “other than collision” coverage) portion of an auto insurance policy often is used to pay for deer-vehicle damage repair. Collision or liability-only policies do not cover the damage. With the vast number of costly deer collisions on Ohio’s roads, it is often a good idea to evaluate maintaining comprehensive coverage, even with older vehicles.
 
“While we can’t predict the actions of deer and other animals on the road, anything you can do to help prevent a crash or reduce the damage from an animal-related collision can save money and potentially save lives,” said Public Affairs Manager Kara Hitchens, AAA Club Alliance.

 

How to avoid animal collisions:

· Scan the road ahead: Looking ahead helps provide enough reaction time if an animal is spotted. Also, remember some animals, like deer, move in groups.

· Use high-beam headlights if there is no oncoming traffic: This can help you spot deer or other wildlife more quickly and give you time to slow down, move over or honk the horn to scare the animal away. High beams also help in spotting animals’ reflective eyes.

· Be extra cautious at dawn and dusk: Deer tend to be more active in the early morning and at dusk. That’s why these are peak times for deer-vehicle collisions.

· If a collision is unavoidable, apply the brakes firmly and remain in your lane: Swerving to avoid an animal can often cause a more serious crash or cause you to lose control of your vehicle. Drivers who swerve to miss a deer and hit something else may be charged for an at-fault crash.

· Always wear a seatbelt and remain awake, alert and sober: The chances of getting injured when hitting an animal are much higher if you don’t have your seatbelt on. If you’re distracted or drowsy, you’re not properly scanning the road for deer and could end up spotting them too late.

What to do if you hit a deer:

· Following the collision, call the police.

· Avoid making contact with the deer/animal. A frightened and wounded animal can be dangerous and pose a threat when approached or might further injure itself.

· Activate the vehicle’s hazard lights whether it’s light or dark outside.

· If possible, move the vehicle to a safe location out of the roadway, and wait for help to arrive.
· Drivers should contact their insurance agent or company representative as quickly as possible to report any vehicle damage.

Ohioans with insurance questions can reach out to the Ohio Department of Insurance at 1-800-686-1526 or via www.insurance.ohio.gov. The website also contains wide-ranging educational insurance information.

AAA provides more than 63 million members with travel, insurance, financial and automotive-related services. Since its founding in 1902, the not-for-profit, fully tax-paying AAA has been a leader and advocate for the safety and security of all travelers. AAA clubs can be visited online at AAA.com.

As always, motorists are also reminded they can dial #677 from their mobile device to be connected to the nearest Ohio State Highway Patrol Post during a roadway emergency. A statistical map containing deer-related crash information can be found here and additional information on crash statistics can be found on the Ohio State Highway Patrol’s Ohio Statistics and Analytics for Traffic Safety (OSTATS) Dashboards.

Service Dog United Moves into the Old Ashland County Dog Shelter Building

After being tagged in a Facebook post asking who was in the old Ashland County Dog Shelter building, I started digging to find out the details. And here’s what I found: the new occupants are Service Dog United, formerly known as Buddy’s Buddies, based in Polk, Ohio

Ian Robinson, a disabled veteran and Purple Heart recipient, paid a terrible cost during his service. Serving as a Crew Chief on F-16s, he suffered injuries from an explosion, leading to a re-classification of his job. It was during this time that Ian began working with the K9 unit towards the latter part of his service. Dealing with combat injuries and PTSD firsthand, Ian connected with a service dog fostering program before the pandemic. He soon discovered the incredible benefits of having a service dog and, in 2019, he adopted his loyal companion, Buddy.

Realizing the profound impact a service dog had on his own life, Ian knew he wanted to do more to support other veterans struggling with similar challenges. Thus, Buddy’s Buddies was born in December 2022. Initially, a kennel facility in Polk, OH, Buddy’s Buddies quickly evolved into a broader vision: Service Dog United (SDU).

Service Dog United (SDU) is a program that aims to provide service dogs to veterans, first responders, and Gold Star Families at zero cost to them. The organization recognizes the growing need for assistance among these individuals, particularly with combat injuries and PTSD. Alarmingly, 22 veterans lose their battle with PTSD and other mental-health related issues every day.

SDU has identified three core goals as part of their mission:

Reducing Affordability Barriers: The cost of training a properly trained service dog can be as high as $30-40k. However, SDU has managed to bring the cost down to approximately $10-15k per dog, making it more accessible to those in need.

Public Education: Service dogs exist in a gray area in ADA legislation. SDU aims to raise awareness and educate the public about service dogs and their purpose, ensuring that these incredible animals and their handlers are treated with the respect they deserve.

Accreditation and Training: SDU is on a mission to set the standard for responsibly breeding, training, and certifying service dogs. By documenting their processes, they aim to create a repeatable and sustainable model for the future.

Service Dog United is not just an organization run by Ian and Holli Robinson, but a true family affair. Their children, as well as close friends, are actively involved in the operations of the organization. Together, they work tirelessly to ensure that veterans and first responders receive the support they need through the loving and dedicated service dogs they provide.

Looking ahead, Service Dog United has a clear vision for their future. Their primary goals include:

Expanding Their Reach: SDU aims to extend their services to veterans in Ashland, Richland, and across the nation. By doing so, they hope to empower more individuals to overcome the challenges of combat injuries and PTSD.

Responsible Reproduction: To ensure the availability of reliable, healthy service dogs for generations to come, SDU is dedicated to responsible reproduction practices. By carefully selecting and breeding AKC registered Labrador Retrievers, they aim to maintain the highest standard of service dog quality.

Ongoing Training Support: Service dogs and their handlers require continuous training and support. SDU is committed to providing ongoing assistance to both the dogs and their human companions, ensuring that their bond remains strong and effective.

Legislation Advocacy: Recognizing the impact of legislation on veterans and service dog relationships, SDU aims to actively advocate for legislation that supports and protects their rights. They understand the importance of a strong legal framework to ensure the welfare of both veterans and their service dogs.

In conclusion, Service Dog United’s move into the old Ashland County Dog Shelter building marks an important milestone in their mission to support veterans and first responders. With devoted founders, a clear vision, and a passion for making a difference, SDU is set to create a lasting impact on the lives of those who have dedicated themselves to serving others.

ASHLAND WEATHER