New Special Needs Support Group Launching in Ashland
Ashland, OH – Families raising children with special needs now have a new resource for connection, education, and support. Local advocates Kloey Kaeser and Celeste Gerwig are launching a Special Needs Families Support Group, providing a welcoming and low-stress environment for parents, caregivers, and advocates.
The group will meet bi-weekly on Thursdays from 6:30-8:30 PM at Grace Church, Room 209 (1144 W. Main Street, Ashland). Participants are encouraged to enter through the doors labeled “Grace Offices.”
“Our goal is to build a community where families can share experiences, gain knowledge, and support one another,” said Kaeser, an autism author, speaker, and IEP advocate.
Topics covered in the meetings will include:
✅ IEPs, 504 Plans, and Evaluations
✅ Special needs resources (SSA, waivers, insurance)
✅ Medical and at-home care options
✅ Self-care and balance for caregivers
The group is open to all parents, caregivers, providers, and advocates of individuals with special needs or disabilities.
The first meeting is scheduled for February 20, with additional sessions on:
📅 March 6, March 20, April 3, April 17, May 1, and May 15
For more information, contact:
📞 Celeste Gerwig – (419) 651-7797
📞 Kloey Kaeser – (567) 217-1972 or asnmkaeser@gmail.com
Join this opportunity to connect, learn, and support one another on the journey of special needs parenting.
Passenger Killed, Driver Arrested in Single-Vehicle Wayne County Crash
EAST UNION TOWNSHIP – On Sunday morning, February 9, 2025, at approximately 12:29 AM, the Wooster Post of the Ohio State Highway Patrol was notified of an iPhone crash alert on Hackett Road, CR188 in the area of South Millborne Road, CR142. Responding emergency personnel from Apple Creek/East Union Township Fire Department located the crash east of Millborne Road, just east of the village of Apple Creek, Wayne County.
The initial investigation revealed the crash involved a gray 2020 Ford F-250 Super Duty pick-up that had been eastbound on Hackett Road from Apple Creek. The pick-up lost control on the icy roadway, rotated off the left side of the road, struck the ditch, and overturned onto its right side.
The vehicle was occupied by three people, including the unbelted driver, Trevor Lee Barker, 22, Washington Court House. The left rear passenger, Whitney Brooke Miller, 24, Millersburg was unbelted but uninjured in the crash. The right rear passenger, Hannah Eve Baird, 25, Big Prairie, was also unbelted and seriously injured. Life-saving efforts were provided on the scene by Apple Creek/East Union Township Fire Department and Baird was transported to Wooster Community Hospital where she died as the result of injuries sustained in the crash.
In addition to the fire department, troopers were assisted on the scene by personnel from Apple Creek Police, Wayne County Sheriff’s Office, and Three Son’s Towing & Recovery.
Alcohol was a factor in the crash. The actions and the events that led to the death of Baird remain under investigation with charges pending.
This is the first fatal crash in Wayne County in 2025. Over the previous five years in Wayne County, driver impairment has contributed to 44 traffic deaths (55%) and 35 unbelted occupants have been killed (43%). The Ohio State Highway Patrol, Wooster Post, reminds all occupants to drive sober, never ride with an impaired driver, and always buckle up, whether behind the wheel or along for the ride.
Fans Don’t Let Fans Drive Drunk Designate a Sober Driver this Super Bowl Sunday
In an effort to keep our roadways safe this Super Bowl Sunday, troopers will be cracking down on impaired drivers. Do your part in promoting roadway safety by reminding friends and family that Fans Don’t Let Fans Drive Drunk.
Last year’s Super Bowl reporting period was the deadliest in five years. From 6 a.m. Sunday, February 11 to 6 a.m. Monday, February 12, there were four fatal crashes on Ohio roadways, killing four people. Additionally, there were 126 crash-related injuries in that same timeframe. Of those injuries, 10 were OVI-related, resulting in troopers making 25 OVI arrests.
“Safe driving is a shared responsibility, and it begins with making smart choices,” said Colonel Charles A. Jones, Patrol superintendent. “Plan ahead, designate a sober driver and do your part to prevent the devastating consequences of impaired driving.”
If you host a Super Bowl party, make sure your guests have a safe and sober way to and from their destination, and do not serve alcohol to anyone under 21 years of age.
The public is encouraged to safely call #677 if you see dangerous driving on Ohio roadways.
Ashland Police Division Officers along with Ashland Fire Department & EMS responded to the intersection of Main Street and Union Street for a two vehicle accident tonight.
Minor injuries reported and one was transported to UH Samaritan Medical Center by Ashland EMS.
Justice Delayed but Not Denied: Family of Mark Ramsey Confronts Hit-and-Run Suspect in Court
Ashland, OH – Nearly three years after the tragic hit-and-run that took the life of Mark Ramsey, 63, of Mansfield, his family finally heard the suspect, Deltino J. Crain, admit to the crime. The long-awaited confession came during a Change of Plea Hearing before Ashland County Common Pleas Court Judge David Stimpert.
Ramsey was fatally struck on April 19, 2022, at 11:06 p.m. while standing next to his disabled pickup truck along U.S. Route 42 in Milton Township. The driver, later identified as Crain, fled the scene and evaded law enforcement for over two years.
Authorities had initially issued a public plea for help in locating the suspect vehicle, believed to be a silver Dodge pickup truck with damage to its front right side. It wasn’t until July 29, 2024, that Crain was arrested in connection with the case.
Crain was indicted on February 9, 2024, on two felony charges:
Aggravated Vehicular Homicide (Third-degree felony)
Failure to Stop After an Accident (Third-degree felony)
During the plea hearing, Ashland County Assistant Prosecutor Matthew Metcalf announced that the state would dismiss the first charge in exchange for Crain’s guilty plea to the second. The decision was based on the available evidence, which sparked strong emotions from Ramsey’s grieving family,.
Members of Ramsey’s family delivered heart-wrenching statements during the hearing, describing him as a kind-hearted man who dedicated his life to helping others. His brother, sister, and son expressed frustration over Crain’s attempt to escape justice and voiced concerns over the leniency of the plea deal.
Ramsey’s sister, Jennifer Howard, spoke about his generosity, recalling how he often helped strangers in need, including purchasing gas for a stranded motorist. “He deserved a hell of a lot better than what he got,” she said.
His brother added, “Now he’s willing to plead to hit-and-skip, but how about the murder behind it? He murdered a good man.”
Ramsey’s son, Anthony, emphasized that Crain’s prolonged evasion of authorities only deepened the family’s pain. “For two years you ran. To me, that ‘sorry’ didn’t mean nothing,” he stated.
Judge Stimpert informed Crain that he faces a prison sentence ranging from 9 to 36 months, with increments of nine months, as well as a maximum fine of $10,000 and a mandatory license suspension. Crain’s sentencing has been set for March 24, 2025 at 10:00 a.m.
While the family accepts the plea deal they remain frustrated and wish for a sentence that reflects the severity of Crain’s actions. “My brother deserves justice,” Howard said. “We will be there to see it through.”
Ashland Police Investigate Cat Shooting in Elmarna/Westview/Mifflin Avenue Area
ASHLAND, OH – Residents of Elmarna/Westview/Mifflin Avenue Area neighborhood are wondering about report of stray cat being shot and killed. This incident involved a well-known stray cat that had been fed and cared for by locals for nearly two years. The cat was found dead on a resident’s porch, later established to have suffered a possible fatal Pellet Gun wound.
Linda Yeater, a resident of the area, had been providing food, water, and shelter for a group of stray cats in her neighborhood. She became concerned when one of the cats, a frequent visitor to her porch, was found unresponsive in a heated shelter she had set up.
“I looked out and saw him lying in the heated shelter,” Yeater recalled. “At first, I thought he was just staying warm. But the next morning, when I checked on him, he was still there. That’s when I realized something was terribly wrong.”
After discovering the cat was deceased, she took it to Spring Meadow Veterinary Clinic, where an X-ray revealed the presence of a metal projectile in its abdomen. The wound above its eye raised further suspicion that the cat had been shot multiple times. Yeater filed a police report with the Ashland Police Division.
The police report indicates that Yeater has captured video footage of additional stray cats with similar injuries in the neighborhood. However, as of now, there are no known suspects.
The Ashland Police Division has launched an investigation into the matter. Police Captain Craig Kiley assured the public that crimes against animals are taken seriously.
“There is no reason to cause harm or death to an innocent animal,” Kiley stated.
Ryan Williams of the Cat House Sanctuary expressed deep concern over the reports of animal cruelty, emphasizing that such acts are not only tragic but also illegal under Ohio law.
“With the heartbreaking reports of stray cats being shot, our hearts are heavy with sorrow for these innocent lives lost,” Williams said. “Such cruel acts constitute a felony under Goddard’s Law. The Ohio Supreme Court recently affirmed that every dog and cat—including those without a home—is protected under this law.”
The Humane Society of Ashland County Ohio echoed these sentiments in a public Facebook post, urging anyone with information to come forward.
A significant ruling by the Ohio Supreme Court in October 2024 expanded the legal definition of “companion animal” to include stray dogs and cats. This decision ensures that animal cruelty laws apply to all dogs and cats, not just those that are owned or kept in a residential dwelling.
In a unanimous ruling, the court determined that felony-level penalties for harming animals apply regardless of ownership status. Justice Patrick F. Fischer wrote in the court’s opinion that “the prohibition on causing serious physical harm to a companion animal extends to all dogs and cats.”
Local residents, particularly those who have been caring for the stray cats, are now fearful for the safety of these animals and are calling for increased awareness and enforcement of animal cruelty laws.
“I just want to know who would do this and why,” Yeater said. “These cats weren’t bothering anyone. They were just trying to survive.”
Authorities urge anyone with information regarding the shootings to contact the Ashland Police Department. In the meantime, animal advocates continue to stress the importance of humane treatment for all animals, including strays.
The investigation remains ongoing, and officials encourage community members to report any suspicious activity that could lead to identifying the individual responsible for these senseless acts of violence.
Ashland County Man Arrested for Gun Incident, Faces Multiple Charges
ASHLAND COUNTY, OH – A tense situation unfolded on the afternoon of February 3, 2025, when the Ashland County Sheriff’s Office received a 911 call at 3:21 p.m. reporting a man waving a gun outside a residence at 246 Davis Road. The suspect, identified as Christopher Honeycutt, was later arrested and booked into the Ashland County Jail.
Honeycutt, now facing multiple felony charges, appeared before Ashland County Common Pleas Court Magistrate Emily Bates for a bond hearing on February 5. During the proceedings, Honeycutt repeatedly attempted to interject with his own version of events, prompting Magistrate Bates to mute his microphone due to repeated courtroom disruptions.
Authorities have charged Honeycutt with two felony counts:
Trespass in a Habitation When a Person is Present or Likely to be Present (F4): According to court records, Honeycutt allegedly entered a habitation unlawfully using force, stealth, or deception while individuals were present or likely to be present, in violation of Ohio Revised Code Section 2911.12.
Aggravated Possession of Drugs (F5): Police reported that Honeycutt was found in possession of methamphetamine, a Schedule II controlled substance, in violation of Ohio Revised Code Section 2925.11.
During the bond hearing, the court advised Honeycutt of his rights, including his right to remain silent, to a preliminary hearing, and to legal representation. As he could not afford an attorney, the court appointed David Randolph as his counsel.
Magistrate Bates set Honeycutt’s bond at $50,000, allowing for a surety bond, a bond secured by real estate or securities, or a cash deposit. The bond conditions include:
Prohibition from leaving the state without court approval.
Mandatory compliance with all Ohio laws.
Random drug and alcohol testing at his own expense, with a complete ban on THC products.
A requirement to seek a drug/alcohol assessment and follow recommended treatment.
A strict no-contact order with the alleged victims and their residence, with a 100-foot restriction.
Failure to adhere to these conditions may result in immediate arrest. Honeycutt’s next court appearance is scheduled for February 7, 2025, at 3:00 p.m. via video conference. If he posts bond, he is required to report in person to the Ashland County Court of Common Pleas.
Arrest Warrant Triggers Temporary Lockdown at Black River Local Schools
ASHLAND COUNTY, OH – The Ashland County Sheriff’s Office executed an arrest warrant on County Road 40 between State Route 58 and County Road 391, leading to a temporary lockdown at Black River Local Schools this morning.
Moments before Ashland County Sheriff’s Office Deputies, including Ashland’s Special Response Team (SRT), arrived on scene to serve the warrant, authorities closed the roadway to traffic and informed Black River Local Schools.
In a message to parents, Black River Local Schools stated, “County Road 40 between Rt. 58 and County Road 391 is currently closed by law enforcement. We are unable to pick up any students in this area at this time.”
Authorities have not yet released details regarding the individual involved or the circumstances of the warrant. More information will be provided as it becomes available.
Ashland High School Hosts “Ignite Worship Night” for Local Youth
Ashland, OH – A powerful night of worship, fellowship, and inspiration is set to take place as “Ignite Worship Night” comes to Ashland High School’s little theater on Wednesday, February 5th, from 6:00 to 8:00 PM. Doors will open at 5:00 PM, welcoming youth from across Ashland County and beyond.
Sponsored by LifeWise, the event is organized by a coalition of local churches and ministries, including Bethel Baptist Church, and will feature Legacy Band from Word of Life, as well as student speakers from Ashland University’s Fellowship of Christian Athletes. Five local church youth groups from Ashland County and New London are also set to participate.
Pastor John Bouquet of Bethel Baptist Church, along with Chris Lopez, youth pastor and event coordinator, and Bobby Brown, associate pastor and one of the event organizers, shared their enthusiasm for this night of worship and community.
Bobby Brown emphasized the importance of unity, saying, “We want to see our students come together to worship the Lord, have fun, and most of all, ignite their faith. This event is so big that five churches have come together because we are passionate about seeing the youth in our community grow.”
Chris Lopez added that the night will feature fun activities, rally games, a worship concert, prayer, and a transformational message. To close out the evening, attendees will be treated to free pizza, generously donated by Domino’s.
“This is going to be a night you don’t want to miss,” Lopez said. “We want you to be challenged and inspired, and then go home full of delicious pizza!”
The event is open to all youth in the community, and no registration is required. Organizers encourage students to come ready for a night of faith, fun, and fellowship.
For more information, attendees can reach out to Bethel Baptist Church https://www.bethelchapel.com/
BREAKING: Punxsutawney Phil Claps Back – “I Wasn’t Looking for My Shadow, I Was Looking for My Coffee”
Punxsutawney, PA – In a shocking turn of events, the world’s most overworked and underappreciated meteorologist, Punxsutawney Phil, has finally broken his silence after yet another year of winter-despair-inducing headlines.
“Let me clear this up,” Phil said in an exclusive press conference held outside his burrow. “I wasn’t looking for my shadow—I was looking for my coffee. You try waking up to a crowd of thousands before dawn without caffeine and see how accurate your weather predictions are.”
Phil, who has been contractually obligated to this gig since 1887, expressed his frustration with the annual spectacle. “Every year, they yank me out of my warm burrow like I’m a prize in some bizarre weather-themed carnival game. They shine blinding lights in my face, expect me to make an accurate forecast on zero notice, and then act surprised when I retreat. Wouldn’t you?”
Critics argue that Phil’s track record is spotty at best, with some meteorologists pointing out that a coin flip would be just as reliable. But Phil fired back. “Oh, I’m sorry, you trust the same weather apps that tell you it’ll be sunny, and then you get caught in a downpour? Please.”
The rodent prognosticator also hinted at labor negotiations with his handler, Phil’s Inner Circle. “All I’m saying is, if I had an espresso machine in my burrow, maybe—just maybe—spring would come a little sooner.”
As of now, Phil remains firm on his forecast of six more weeks of winter, mostly because he’s already committed to his post-shadow nap. “Wake me up when Starbucks starts a groundhog loyalty program,” he muttered before disappearing back into his den.
Stay tuned for more updates—or at least until next year, when Phil is once again rudely awakened for the sake of tradition.
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Joe Lyons •
February 9, 2025
