The Board of Directors of Samaritan Hospital Foundation is pleased to again offer scholastic awards to persons residing in Ashland County or UH Samaritan Medical Center employees or immediate family members. To be eligible, applicants must be currently enrolled or accepted in an accredited program in the areas of nursing, medicine or allied medical studies.
Completed applications must be returned with appropriate grade transcripts by April 19, 2024, to the Samaritan Hospital Foundation, Attn: Mona Campbell, at 663 East Main Street in Ashland, Ohio.
Scholastic Award applications for the 2024-25 academic year are available at www.samaritanhospitalfoundation.org and at University Hospitals Samaritan Medical Center, 1025 Center Street, Ashland, Ohio, at the main lobby reception desk.
Applications are also available at Samaritan Hospital Foundation at 663 E. Main Street, Ashland, Ohio, or by contacting the Foundation office at 419-207-7900. Recipients will be notified in late May.
COLUMBUS, Ohio – An Iraqi citizen living in Columbus was sentenced in federal court here today to 178 months in prison for attempting to provide material support to a terrorist organization as part of a plot to murder former United States President George W. Bush.
Shihab Ahmed Shihab Shihab, 53, believed the former President was responsible for killing many Iraqis and breaking apart the entire country of Iraq during Operation Iraqi Freedom. The defendant’s own life changed during and after the war and he proudly assisted in this plot.
Shihab originally entered the United States in September 2020 and primarily resided in Columbus from December 2020 until his arrest in May 2022. Throughout much of that time, Shihab attempted to provide material support to terrorists in furtherance of a plot to assassinate former President George W. Bush.
Shihab hoped to smuggle at least four Iraqis associated with ISIS into the United States with the goal of completing the assassination. In fact, in the fall of 2021, Shihab believed he successfully smuggled an ISIS member into the United States for a fee of $40,000. Shihab accepted tens of thousands of dollars for the purported smuggling. In reality, the individual was fictitious, and the interaction was coordinated under the direction of the FBI.
In furtherance of the assassination plot, Shihab traveled to Dallas in February 2022 to conduct surveillance of locations associated with the former President. For example, he recorded videos of the front access gate and surrounding area leading into the neighborhood of the former President’s home.
In March 2022, Shihab met with others in a hotel room in Columbus to look at sample firearms and law enforcement uniforms.
Shihab required the use of burner phones, encrypted communication applications and code names as plans evolved.
Shihab was arrested by FBI Joint Terrorism Task Force agents in May 2022. He pleaded guilty in March 2023 to attempting to provide material support to terrorists. Shihab was also sentenced today to a lifetime of supervised release following his prison sentence.
Kenneth L. Parker, United States Attorney for the Southern District of Ohio; Matthew G. Olsen, Assistant Attorney General, Department of Justice, National Security Division; Cheryl Mimura, Acting Special Agent in Charge, Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI), Cincinnati Division; and Yvonne Dicristoforo, Special Agent in Charge, United States Secret Service, announced the sentence imposed today by U.S. District Judge Michael H. Watson. Deputy Criminal Chief Jessica W. Knight and Trial Attorney Frank Russo from the Department of Justice’s National Security Division are representing the United States in this case.
Staff from the Muskingum Watershed Conservancy District (MWCD) recently attended the Ohio Park and Recreation Association (OPRA) annual conference in Sandusky, Ohio. During the conference, the OPRA Annual Awards of Excellence were presented at a banquet hosted by the association on February 6, 2024.
The MWCD was proud to accept a 1st place award in the health and wellness category for a new initiative in 2023, “Capture the Canvas”. The awards are judged by a panel of parks and recreation professionals from around Ohio.
“Parks and recreation professionals throughout Ohio work every day to improve the quality of life of the people they serve,” said OPRA Executive Director Woody Woodward. “This effort is a shining example of that kind of work, and we are pleased to be able to present this award.”
Capture the Canvas was created with the intention to bring artwork to MWCD trails and increase awareness of the trail system. MWCD also sought participation from local schools to strengthen community partnerships and showcase the artwork of area students.
“I am immensely proud of our organization’s dedication to creating and maintaining a trail system throughout the Muskingum Watershed district for the betterment of residents and guests to our area,” said Craig Butler, MWCD Executive Director. “Receiving this award not only recognizes our hard work, but also underscores the profound impact our trails have on communities, recreation, and conservation.”
Once on the trail, users were encouraged to find the canvas, capture a “selfie”, and upload it to the MWCD website for a chance to win one of three prizes including $1,000 cash donated by Encino Energy, a weekend stay a deluxe log cabin at Pleasant Hill Lake Park, and a full-day pontoon rental from an MWCD operated marina. Counters on the trails documented 6,702 people between Memorial Day and Labor Day. The prize winners included Robert Calhoun, Stephanie Brinkman, and Kimberly Kress.
Five high schools created original pieces for this program. The canvases were beautiful pieces of art ranging from nature, birds, bears, and outdoor fantasy.
The MWCD has committed to increase trail accessibility to all people in the coming years by not only building new trails on MWCD property, but also through a partnership with the Buckeye Trail Association. Public surveys and feedback from neighboring communities and park guests have consistently emphasized the importance of trails. The MWCD has invested over a million dollars in trail development over the last five years.
Capture the Canvas 2024 will kick-off on May 24 and conclude on Monday, September 2, 2024. Follow MWCD online at www.mwcd.org and on Facebook and Instagram for more information about how to register and prize opportunities the upcoming promotion.
Photo Award Photo: Woody Woodward, OPRA Executive Director, Eric Stechschulte, Dylan Sayre, Aaron Stump, and Nate Eppink, OPRA Board President
Prize Winner “Selfies” submitted from the promotion: 1st place – Robert Calhoun, 2nd Place- Stephanie Brinkman, 3rd Place- Kimberly Kress
According to Ohio Attorney General Dave Yost, Many job scams promise high pay with minimal effort, but they often result in fraudsters obtaining the job seeker’s personal information or access to their financial accounts. These scams may be advertisements on social media, email or text messages.
Many job scams use fake checks, where scammers send a check to cover equipment cost like a new computer. They instruct you to deposit the check into your bank account and then use a money-transfer service, gift card, or prepaid money card to send the same amount to a “vendor.” The check inevitably bounces, however, which means the money you sent to the fake vendor comes out of your pocket.
Before applying for any job posting, research the company thoroughly. Signs of potential job scams include the following red flags:
The posting includes vague job descriptions and claims you can make hundreds or thousands of dollars doing very little work.
Communication from company representatives uses free or personal email accounts, such as those from gmail.com, yahoo.com, hotmail.com or aol.com.
You’re hired without ever meeting anyone in person.
The company doesn’t have a website.
You receive a check before any work is performed.
You’re asked to wire-transfer money or purchase prepaid money cards.
Common scams include postal scams, mystery shopper scams, and offers for high-paying data entry jobs, often requiring upfront fees or sharing banking information.
Postal scams
Postal scams can be marketed as a convenient work from home opportunity. The job posting will list the job duties as repackaging and/or reshipping items. The compensation for the work is unusually high and even includes shipping costs. This “job” is actually a scam that allows the poster to use the applicant to ship stolen goods without receiving any compensation.
Mystery shopper
An applicant is selected for a “secret shopper” job and receives a check. The first assignment is to deposit the check and then wire-transfer a portion of the money to someone else using the wire-transfer service at a local retail store. In reality, the check the applicant has received is no good, and any money the person sends will be lost.
Running a web-based business
In exchange for an upfront fee from the applicant, a company promises to set up a web-based business that will generate income through advertising revenue or products sold online by other businesses. The claims are false and no money will be generated for the applicant.
High-paying data entry jobs
Scammers often advertise illegitimate data entry jobs. The job description will claim you can earn high wages for minimal work. The job listing may require you to pay up front for job training or equipment. It also may require you to share your banking information prior to employment. If you see a data entry job offering a wage that seems much higher than the market average, investigate the company. Verify the company is posting this position publicly for the wage stated before responding to the job offer.
Job seekers should be sure to research the companies by contacting the Ohio Attorney General’s Office and the local Better Business Bureau. Additionally, search engines can help find reviews by searching the company’s name along with terms such as “complaint,” “scam,” or “review.”
Consumers who need help resolving a complaint against a business, or who suspect a scam or an unfair business practice, should contact the Ohio Attorney General’s Office at www.OhioProtects.org or 800-282-0515.
This evening, Ashland Police Division Officers were called to the 800 block of West Main for a civil standby that started to escalate when a man became upset.
As the situation seemed to be winding down and an officer was leaving, the man opened the door with a knife, though it remained in its sheath, escalating the situation.
The officer called for backup as a precaution, wanting to ensure safety for everyone involved.
The Police were able to defuse the situation without incident.
Some residents of the apartment were asked to wait until it was safe to return, focusing on public safety.
Lieutenant Kline emphasized the importance of using tactics to keep both officers and the public safe in such situations.”
SANDUSKY – On February 20, the Ohio State Highway Patrol will host regional testing for prospective applicants at the Cedar Point Sports Center, located at 2701 Cleveland Road in Sandusky.
Those interested in employment with the Patrol can come to the Cedar Point Sports Center at 9 a.m., where they will have the ability to talk with troopers about a career of service in our communities and on Ohio roadways. Those who meet the basic requirements to be a trooper – age 20 to 39, U.S. citizen, high school diploma or GED, and a valid driver license – will have the opportunity to complete an application and a written test during the event. If the written test is passed, applicants can proceed and take the physical fitness assessment on the spot.
Prospective applicants should arrive in appropriate business attire with identification and bring physical fitness clothing with them. This regional testing opportunity gives prospective applicants a chance to quickly complete the first few steps of the application process, bringing them closer to their goal of being a trooper.
The Ohio State Highway Patrol employs highly motivated and well -trained professionals who are committed to providing quality service to those who live, visit and do business in Ohio. If you are looking to make a difference in your community, becoming a trooper is the right career for you!
The Patrol is accepting applications for our next Academy Class. If you can’t make it on February 20, or want more details on the requirements or application process, call 1-866-TROOPER, scan the QR code below, or click here to start your journey with the Ohio State Highway Patrol.
Scipio Township – The Norwalk Post of the Ohio State Highway Patrol is investigating a commercial vehicle versus passenger car crash that occurred Wednesday February 14, 2024 at 06:00 PM on State Route 18 at the intersection of County Road 43 in Scipio Township, Seneca County.
Surrendra Rambarran, age 55, of Kissimmee Florida, was driving a red 2006 Freightliner semi southbound on CR 43. Brooklyn M. Bailes, age 21, of Tiffin Ohio, was driving a silver 2011 Chevy car eastbound on SR 18. Rhonda L. Bailes, age 45, of Bloomville Ohio, was a front seat passenger. Savanna N. Crisp, age 21, of Findlay Ohio, was a backseat passenger.
Mr. Rambarran’s Freightliner semi failed to stop at the intersection and the rear of its trailer was struck by Ms. Bailes Chevy car. Ms. Bailes Chevy car traveled off the right side of the roadway in the southwest corner of the intersection. Mr. Surrendra’s Freightliner semi came to a controlled stop on CR 43 south of SR 18.
Mr. Surrendra was wearing his safety belt and was not injured as a result of the crash.
Ms. Brooklyn Bailes sustained serious injuries and was flown by Mercy LifeFlight to St. Vincent Medical Center. She was trapped inside the vehicle and was extricated by mechanical means. It is unknown at this time if Ms. Bailes was wearing a safety belt.
Ms. Rhonda Bailes sustained serious injuries and was flown by Mercy LifeFlight to St. Vincent Medical Center. She was trapped inside the vehicle and was extricated by mechanical means. It is unknown at this time if Ms. Bailes was wearing a safety belt.
Ms. Crisp sustained minor injuries and was transported to Tiffin Mercy by Seneca County EMS. It is unknown at this time if Ms. Crisp was wearing a safety belt.
Alcohol and drugs are not suspected factors in the crash. The crash remains under investigation.
The Ohio State Highway Patrol was assisted by the Seneca County Sheriff’s Office, Scipio-Republic Fire Department, Seneca County EMS, Mercy LifeFlight, Keller Brother’s Towing, and Rush Repairs and Recovery.
In a Sub-rosa Indictment, 33-year-old Jordan Bicker of Ashland was charged with 11 counts of illegal use of a minor in nudity-oriented material or performance, classified as 5th-degree felonies, and 5 counts of pandering sexually oriented matter involving a minor, categorized as 4th-degree felonies.
During his bond hearing on February 13, 2024, presided over by Magistrate Paul Lange and attended by Assistant Prosecuting Attorney Michael Callow from the Ashland County Prosecutor’s Office, a bond of $15,000.00 was set. Options for bond included a surety bond, real estate or securities as collateral, or a cash deposit. The arraignment was scheduled for Thursday, February 15, 2024, at 9:00 a.m., to be conducted via Zoom Meeting video.
Jordan Bicker
Jordan Bicker is being represented by Attorney Daniel Sabol.
According to court documents, Lieutenant Detective Jason Martin of the Ashland County Sheriff’s Office questioned Jordan Bicker about his phone usage, during which Bicker admitted to viewing pornography but denied knowingly accessing child pornography. However, a text message found on his phone indicated otherwise. Upon further investigation, several hundred images of child pornography were discovered on Bicker’s phone, depicting young juvenile females engaged in sexual activities.
In the case of STATE OF OHIO vs. JORDAN BICKER (Case number 24-CRI-069), the charges are detailed as follows:
Eleven counts, 5th Degree Felony of ILLEGAL USE OF MINOR OR IMPAIRED PERSON IN NUDITY-ORIENTED MATERIAL OR PERFORMANCE (Section 2907.323(A)(3), 2907.323(B) of the Ohio Revised Code), a felony of the fifth degree.
In that on or about July 26, 2023, in Ashland County, Ohio, Jordan Bicker, did possess or view material or performance that shows a minor who was not Jordan Bicker’s child or ward in a state of nudity, in violation of Ohio Revised Code
Five counts, 4th Degree Felony PANDERING SEXUALLY-ORIENTED MATTER INVOLVING A MINOR OR IMPAIRED PERSON (Section 2907.322(A)(5), 2907.322(C) of the Ohio Revised Code), a felony of the fourth degree.
In that on or about July 26, 2023, in Ashland County, Ohio, Jordan Bicker, did, with knowledge of the character of the material or performance involved, knowingly solicit, receive, purchase, exchange, possess, or control material that shows a minor participating or engaging in sexual activity, masturbation, or bestiality, in violation of Ohio Revised Code
MANSFIELD, Ohio – The Richland County Board of Commissioners released the State of the County Video during regular session on Tuesday morning. This video highlights the 2023 year in review and includes presentations from County Commissioners Darrell Banks, Tony Vero, and Cliff Mears, as well as County Administrator Andrew Keller and Sheriff Steve Sheldon.
The video is the second installment in a series of three Richland County branding videos and shines a spotlight on many of the County’s notable projects, community investments, and the County’s financial position. The Commissioners plan to release a State of the County Video on an annual basis as a part of the Board’s emphasis on transparency and local government accountability.
On February 11, 2024, at approximately 8:47 PM, Ontario Police were called to 1019 Landings Court in Ontario regarding a violation of a protection order. The caller indicated that the subject was also armed.
Upon arrival officers were confronted by 32-year-old Jareth Vance of Perrysville as he held a female hostage at gunpoint. Officers tried to rescue the hostage and Vance fired at them, striking one of the officers.
After the shooting occurred a hostage escaped Vance’s control and he shot her as well. Her condition was not known at the time of this news release. Vance then barricaded himself inside the residence where he held a 16-year-old hostage.
The Richland County ASORT team along with Hostage Negotiators were called along with Mansfield Police, Shelby Police, The Richland County Sheriff’s Office and the Ohio State Highway Patrol assisted on scene.
After a four-hour standoff Vance surrendered to law enforcement with no further injuries. The 16-year-old hostage was then rescued unharmed.
The 6-year veteran officer is currently hospitalized and in stable condition. The Ontario Police Department would like to thank everyone for the tremendous outpouring of support for our officer and the female victim. It is greatly appreciated.
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Joe Lyons •
February 15, 2024
The Board of Directors of Samaritan Hospital Foundation is pleased to again offer scholastic awards to persons residing in Ashland County or UH Samaritan Medical Center employees or immediate family members. To be eligible, applicants must be currently enrolled or accepted in an accredited program in the areas of nursing, medicine or allied medical studies.
COLUMBUS, Ohio – An Iraqi citizen living in Columbus was sentenced in federal court here today to 178 months in prison for attempting to provide material support to a terrorist organization as part of a plot to murder former United States President George W. Bush.
SANDUSKY – On February 20, the Ohio State Highway Patrol will host regional testing for prospective applicants at the Cedar Point Sports Center, located at 2701 Cleveland Road in Sandusky.
Scipio Township – The Norwalk Post of the Ohio State Highway Patrol is investigating a commercial vehicle versus passenger car crash that occurred Wednesday February 14, 2024 at 06:00 PM on State Route 18 at the intersection of County Road 43 in Scipio Township, Seneca County.
In a Sub-rosa Indictment, 33-year-old Jordan Bicker of Ashland was charged with 11 counts of illegal use of a minor in nudity-oriented material or performance, classified as 5th-degree felonies, and 5 counts of pandering sexually oriented matter involving a minor, categorized as 4th-degree felonies.