(COLUMBUS, Ohio) – With two months until the 2024 Total Solar Eclipse, TourismOhio today launched an all-new Total Solar Eclipse map to make planning for the event in Ohio even easier.
“We are excited to welcome eclipse enthusiasts to our great state,” said Governor Mike DeWine. “In Ohio, there’s far more to see and do beyond watching the solar eclipse. There are countless activities and destinations to explore. We encourage travelers to come early and state late for a full Heart of it All experience.”
The April 8 event will plunge parts of Ohio into total darkness for nearly 5 minutes as the moon passes between the sun and Earth. Several cities, including Dayton, Lima, Toledo, Findlay, Cleveland, and Akron, are in the path of totality. In total, 55 Ohio counties will experience at least a partial eclipse.
“From state agencies to our local partners, there are many Ohioans working together to ensure that visitors and residents have a safe an enjoyable experience in the Heart of it All,” said Lydia Mihalik, director of the Department of Development, which over sees the TourismOhio office. “With all there is to experience in Ohio, you can create an unforgettable weekend filled with memories your family will be talking about for years to come.”
The new interactive Total Solar Eclipse Map on Ohio.org helps visitors plan their trip to Ohio with places to watch the eclipse and an interactive list of viewing parties, festivals, and other events happening across the state.
“We’re so excited for the eclipse and to welcome visitors to Perrysburg and Wood County,” said Christine Best, Executive Director of Visit Perrysburg. “TourismOhio has provided us a great opportunity to bring awareness to our exciting eclipse events, like the Total Eclipse of the Burg, as well as the great places to check out around Perrysburg to eat and shop.”
The Total Solar Eclipse landing page also includes other ideas to create an out-of-this-world itinerary perfect for a long weekend—travelers can also go ‘to the moon and back’ along the Ohio Lunar Road Trip, or gaze up at the stars with the best spots in the state, and explore Ohio’s top-rated science museums with their families.
Visitors are encouraged to share their Ohio total solar eclipse memories and adventures on social media with #OhioTheHeartofitAll and #Eclipse2024.
Eclipse viewing at National Museum of the U.S. Air Force in Dayton
In Ashland County, there is a candidate for sheriff who brings a wealth of experience and a deep commitment to upholding the constitution and keeping families safe. Kurt Schneider, a 13-year Ashland Sheriff’s Deputy, is running for Sheriff with the goal of improving response times for emergency calls and combating the growing problem of human trafficking and drug abuse in the county. With a background in law enforcement and public safety, Schneider is well-equipped to take on the challenges of the role and ensure the safety and well-being of Ashland County residents.
A Lifetime of Public Service
Kurt Schneider’s passion for public service started at a young age. Coming from a family of public servants, with grandparents working in the police and fire departments and parents in public safety and education, Schneider was inspired to follow in their footsteps. In high school, he became a volunteer firefighter and began pursuing his interest in investigating arson cases.
After graduating from the University of Cincinnati with degrees in Fire Science Engineering and Criminal Justice Technology – Law Enforcement, Schneider embarked on a career in law enforcement. He started as a police officer and gained experience in various areas of law enforcement and investigation, including being a beat cop, fire investigator, paramedic, sheriff’s deputy, and bomb technician. His 13 years in the Sheriff’s office allowed him to work in different departments, from corrections to road patrol and administration to specialized units like the K-9 and bomb unit.
Commitment to Protecting Ashland County Families
As a local business owner and a resident of Ashland County, Kurt Schneider is deeply invested in the safety and well-being of the community. He understands the unique challenges that the county faces and is committed to tackling them head-on. Schneider emphasizes the importance of reducing response times for emergency calls, citing a tragic case in 2016 where a woman had to whisper her life-threatening situation to multiple people during a 911 call while her abductor slept nearby. He is determined to ensure that such incidents are not repeated and that Ashland County residents can rely on swift and effective emergency services.
Another top priority for Schneider is combating the scourge of human trafficking and drug abuse in the county. He firmly believes that being a pro-life sheriff means actively fighting against the drug epidemic on our streets and taking a proactive approach to keeping schools safe. Schneider promises to use every available resource to address these pressing issues and protect the lives of Ashland County residents.
Kurt Schneider’s extensive experience in law enforcement and public safety, combined with his dedication to upholding the constitution and keeping families safe, make him an ideal candidate for the position of Sheriff in Ashland County. With his background as a third-generation public servant and his commitment to reducing response times for emergency calls and combating human trafficking and drug abuse, Schneider is well-positioned to lead the Sheriff’s office and ensure the safety and well-being of Ashland County residents. As the election approaches, residents have the opportunity to support a candidate who brings a wealth of experience, expertise, and a deep sense of commitment to their community.
Come and meet Kurt Schneider, candidate for Ashland County Sheriff! Kurt is committed to upholding the Constitution and protecting Ashland county families.
This free event will take place at The Greens Bistro on Monday February 19th between 4:30 PM and 6:30PM. Light appetizers and refreshments will be served for your enjoyment!
(COLUMBUS, Ohio)—Ohio Governor Mike DeWine and Ohio Department of Public Safety Director Andy Wilson today announced the availability of $1 million in funding to support the work of law enforcement and prosecutors to investigate and prosecute crimes of sexual assault in Ohio.
Funds awarded through the new Ohio Sexual Assault Investigations Grant Program can be used toward drug-facilitated sexual assault toxicology testing, sexual assault kit (SAK) testing, expert testimony, SAK storage upgrades, transportation/shipping costs, sexual assault investigations training, specialized DNA analysis, and other sexual assault investigation costs.
“Those who’ve committed sexual assault have no place in our communities,” said Governor DeWine. “The goal of this program is to help ensure that local law enforcement agencies have the tools they need to get offenders into custody as soon as possible.”
The Ohio Department of Public Safety’s Office of Criminal Justice Services (OCJS) is administering the Ohio Sexual Assault Investigations Grant Program. Agencies can submit reimbursement for sexual assault investigations connected to incidents that occurred on or after July 1, 2023.
APPLICATION: Ohio Sexual Assault Investigations Grant Program
Grant applications for the current fiscal year will be available through mid-June with additional funding slated to be released July 1, 2024. Individual grant amounts will depend on the number of qualifying entities that apply. Funding for the program was awarded by the Ohio General Assembly in the operating budget.
During his time as Ohio’s attorney general, Governor DeWine led a special initiative to test evidence from thousands of previously untested rape kits submitted by local law enforcement agencies in Ohio. Between 2011 and 2018, forensic scientists at the Ohio Bureau of Criminal Investigation analyzed nearly 14,000 old rape kits submitted by local law enforcement, resulting in the upload of more than 8,600 DNA profiles into the Combined DNA Index System (CODIS). At the time that testing was completed in 2018, those profiles had led to more than 5,000 DNA matches.
“This new grant program is another example of Governor DeWine’s commitment to helping law enforcement get dangerous criminals off the streets,” said Ohio Department of Public Safety Director Andy Wilson. “The work of investigators is critical toward stopping future attacks and getting justice for survivors.”
By statute, OCJS is the lead justice planning and assistance office for the state, administering millions of dollars in state and federal criminal justice funding every year. OCJS also evaluates programs and develops technology, training, and products for criminal justice professionals and communities.
Thank you to Bill Harris Dealerships for sponsoring Ashland County Pictures “What’s News in Loudonville” With Mayor Jason VanSickle todays topics are:
Sports
Winterfest
Ladies Night
Downtown Revitalization
Mohican Community Theatre Presents
“Disenchanted”
Showtimes:
Friday, February 9th at 7:00
Saturday, February 10th at 7:00
Sunday, February 11th at 2:00
Friday, February 16th at 7:00
Saturday, February 17th at 7:00
Sunday, February 18th at 2:00
Sponsored by Bill Harris Dealerships
I would like to give a huge shout-out to Bill Harris Dealerships for sponsoring the monthly updates “What’s News in Loudonville” With Mayor Jason VanSickle
This exciting endeavor will help to ensure that Ashland County Pictures (ACP) will be able to continue serving the Ashland area with breaking news and up to date information.
COLUMBUS—The Ohio House of Representatives today passed Substitute House Bill 2, which will invest the $350 million Strategic Community Investment Fund into projects throughout Ohio, announced State Rep. Melanie Miller (R-Ashland).
This one-time funding will be administered to statewide, regional, and local projects, with almost $1.3 million which will directly serve Ashland and Medina Counties.
“I am delighted to see these projects coming to the 67th District,” said Miller. “These investments in our community will have an impact for years to come.”
Miller championed several provisions that will positively impact Ashland and Medina Counties:
$1,000,000 to modernize the Ashland County Fairgrounds and build a new Mozelle Hall; and
$200,000 to build The Davy McClure Outdoor Education Shelter in the Ashland County Park District, creating an educational resource for the community;
$36,834 to install tornado sirens at the Homer Township Community Center;
$30,000 to renovate the Rowsburg Community Center, for residents to gather together;
$25,000 to expand sidewalks in Hayesville, connecting the southern portion of the village.
In addition to these local investments, Sub. House Bill 2 also included additional statewide capital investments of:
$600 million for the School Building Program Assistance Fund;
$400 million for the Public Works Commission Local Public Infrastructure and State Capital Improvement Program;
$397.6 million for higher education projects around the state; and
$250 million for local jail construction across Ohio.
The Strategic Community Investment Fund was established in the state’s main operating budget passed last year and includes excess funding from the previous fiscal year. Due to conservative fiscal stewardship, the Ohio House was able to dedicate this excess toward projects that will move Ohio forward.
This funding will be incorporated as part of the greater State Capital Budget bill, a two-year construction budget for capital projects.
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State Representative Melanie Miller is currently serving her first term in the Ohio House of Representatives. She represents the 67th House District, which includes all of Ashland County and the western portion of Medina County.
Thank you to Bill Harris Dealerships for sponsoring Ashland County Pictures “What’s News in Loudonville” With Mayor Jason VanSickle todays topics are:
Sports
Winterfest
Ladies Night
Downtown Revitalization
Mohican Community Theatre Presents
“Disenchanted”
Showtimes:
Friday, February 9th at 7:00
Saturday, February 10th at 7:00
Sunday, February 11th at 2:00
Friday, February 16th at 7:00
Saturday, February 17th at 7:00
Sunday, February 18th at 2:00
Sponsored by Bill Harris Dealerships
I would like to give a huge shout-out to Bill Harris Dealerships for sponsoring the monthly updates “What’s News in Loudonville” With Mayor Jason VanSickle
This exciting endeavor will help to ensure that Ashland County Pictures (ACP) will be able to continue serving the Ashland area with breaking news and up to date information.
In a rather unexpected turn of events, the Ashland Police Division Officers found themselves taking a routine traffic stop to a whole new level.
It all unfolded on this sunny Ashland afternoon, around 2:30 pm, just in front of the Denny’s off US Route 250.
What started as a seemingly unremarkable traffic stop escalated into the apprehension of two individuals and the recovery of a stash of drugs after a thorough search of the vehicle.
The identities of the culprits remain shrouded in mystery as charges are still pending against them.
What we do know is that the driver, a 47-year-old man hailing from Columbus, Ohio, had an equally suspicious passenger, a 46-year-old male resident of Mount Vernon, Ohio.
To complicate matters further, during the arrest, one of the perpetrators, who seemingly needed a few more hours before going to jail, requested EMS to be called. Well, that call for aid ended up leading to him being transported to the ER, albeit in a more comfortable setting.
Now, the charges against both individuals are currently under review, leaving us eagerly awaiting the forthcoming details.
It seems like the criminals just can’t resist the allure of getting tangled up in Ashland’s web of justice.
COLUMBUS—The Ohio House of Representatives today passed Substitute House Bill 2, which will invest the $350 million Strategic Community Investment Fund into projects throughout Ohio, announced State Rep. Melanie Miller (R-Ashland).
This one-time funding will be administered to statewide, regional, and local projects, with almost $1.3 million which will directly serve Ashland and Medina Counties.
“I am delighted to see these projects coming to the 67th District,” said Miller. “These investments in our community will have an impact for years to come.”
Miller championed several provisions that will positively impact Ashland and Medina Counties:
$1,000,000 to modernize the Ashland County Fairgrounds and build a new Mozelle Hall; and
$200,000 to build The Davy McClure Outdoor Education Shelter in the Ashland County Park District, creating an educational resource for the community;
$36,834 to install tornado sirens at the Homer Township Community Center;
$30,000 to renovate the Rowsburg Community Center, for residents to gather together;
$25,000 to expand sidewalks in Hayesville, connecting the southern portion of the village.
In addition to these local investments, Sub. House Bill 2 also included additional statewide capital investments of:
$600 million for the School Building Program Assistance Fund;
$400 million for the Public Works Commission Local Public Infrastructure and State Capital Improvement Program;
$397.6 million for higher education projects around the state; and
$250 million for local jail construction across Ohio.
The Strategic Community Investment Fund was established in the state’s main operating budget passed last year and includes excess funding from the previous fiscal year. Due to conservative fiscal stewardship, the Ohio House was able to dedicate this excess toward projects that will move Ohio forward.
This funding will be incorporated as part of the greater State Capital Budget bill, a two-year construction budget for capital projects.
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State Representative Melanie Miller is currently serving her first term in the Ohio House of Representatives. She represents the 67th House District, which includes all of Ashland County and the western portion of Medina County.
Featuring Dinesh D’Souza, Dan Bongino & Nick Searcy
Tuesday, February 13 at 5:30 pm
At the Ashland Sheriff’s Annex 1205 E. Main Street, Ashland
IS THE UNITED STATES BECOMING A POLICE STATE?
Incredibly, the answer is yes and both sides of the political aisle agree. The only difference is that each accuses the other of seeking to establish a police state?
Who’s right? This film resolves the question by defining what a police state is, showing how it got started, how it operates, who’s behind it, and who’s in charge!
Feel free to bring your own snacks
Note: There is a seating limit. If necessary, we will have an additional showing at a later date
Hold the phone, folks! It seems a resident in Ashland County, Ohio could be walking around with a grin wider than the Mississippi River. Why, you might ask? Well, it turns out this lucky individual has got their hands on a Mega Millions ticket worth a cool $1 million!
Now, before we start imagining fancy yachts and endless vacations, let’s get into the nitty-gritty details. The ticket in question was sold at none other than the Beer Barrel Drive Thru in Ashland, a spot where dreams apparently come true.
Interestingly enough, this ticket was an auto-pick, meaning the stars aligned and the primary white balls matched up perfectly, granting our hero the million-dollar prize. Unfortunately, they missed out on the $358 million jackpot due to the Mega Ball slipping from their grasp.
Those winning numbers from Tuesday night’s drawing were 2, 10, 31, 44, 57, and don’t forget the Mega Ball 10 for good measure.
As luck would have it, there were also other fortunate souls out there with their own $1 million tickets. Two tickets, one sold in California, and the other in Pennsylvania, joined our Ashland County resident in the winner’s circle.
So, while we’re not quite retiring to our private islands just yet, we can’t help but celebrate the joy and the what-ifs that this remarkable story brings. Cheers to you, mystery winner, and may your newfound fortune bring you endless happiness and a lifetime supply of high-fives!
I would like to give a huge shout-out to Bill Harris Dealerships for sponsoring Ashland County Pictures. This will help to ensure that Ashland County Pictures (ACP News) will be able to continue serving the Ashland area with breaking news and up to date information.