Joe Lyons

2023 Trick or Treat Day for Ashland

Halloween “trick or treat” time for the City of Ashland is Thursday, Oct. 26, 2023, between 5:00 and 7:00pm. Rain or shine.

Trick or Treating in the City of Ashland occurs each year on the Thursday before/of Halloween, which is chosen so as to not conflict with Friday night High School football and other weekend activities.

The 5pm to 7pm time frame is to protect our children, even with reflective costumes and flashlights, the potential for harm to a child is too high to risk having the event later in the evening when it is dark. This event is for the children and we want it to be a safe, fun event for them.

If you wish to have trick or treaters visit your home, please turn on the outside porch light. Trick or treaters, please respect porch lights turned off as a sign of residents choosing to not participate.

Yost Sues Meta, Claiming It Harmed Young Users’ Mental Health to Boost Profits

(COLUMBUS, Ohio) — Ohio Attorney General Dave Yost and 32 of his colleagues filed a federal lawsuit today against Meta alleging that the social-media technology giant designed and deployed harmful features for Facebook and Instagram to addict young users to its platforms and enhance its bottom line.

The lawsuit, filed in U.S. District Court for the Northern District of California, claims that Meta, instead of working to mitigate the damage inflicted by its social-media platforms, publicly concealed the severity of the psychological harm they cause, including addiction to the platforms, which could, and in some cases did, result in physical harm.

In related complaints filed today in state courts, eight other attorneys general made similar allegations. Florida is filing its own federal lawsuit in the U.S. District Court for the Middle District of Florida. The federal and state lawsuits stem from a bipartisan investigation of Meta.

“Given that children, when they’re on these platforms, become vulnerable to cyberbullying and online predators, Meta has added insult to injury, further injuring our children,” Yost said. “I trust that the parents within Meta itself might reconsider these practices, but, until then, initiating lawsuits should compel the company to change its ways.”

The federal lawsuit asserts that Meta violated state consumer protection laws by assuring the public that the platforms are safe and suitable for young users. Yet the company’s practices harmed and continue to harm the mental and physical health of teenagers and pre-teens, the suit maintains, fueling what the U.S. Surgeon General has called a “youth mental health crisis,” which has prompted suicides, devastated families and damaged a generation of young people.

The complaint further alleges that Meta violated federal law – specifically, the Children’s Online Privacy Protection Act – when the company, aware that users younger than 13 were actively on its platforms, collected data from those users without parental consent. Meta targeted these youngest users after identifying them as a “valuable, but untapped” base, as reported in a 2021 Wall Street Journal article.

Although much of the lawsuit relies on confidential material not yet available to the public, some publicly available sources – including disclosures from former Meta employees – detail how the company deliberately sought to gain financially by addicting teens and tweens to its platforms.

Meta’s platform algorithms, the lawsuit says, push users into descending “rabbit holes,” with the objective of keeping users on the platform for long periods. Meta also allegedly used features such as infinite scroll and near-constant alerts in a concerted effort to hold young users’ attention. Such manipulative tactics entice teens and tweens to continually return to the platforms. Instead of disclosing the harm and making meaningful changes to minimize it, Meta publicly advertised their platforms as safe for young users.

The attorneys general also allege that the platforms served harmful content – including material associated with eating disorders, violence, negative self-perception and body-image issues, and bullying – to young users.

The lawsuit seeks injunctive and monetary relief caused by Meta’s platforms.

Joining Yost in the federal filing are the attorneys general of Arizona, California, Colorado, Connecticut, Delaware, Georgia, Hawaii, Idaho, Illinois, Indiana, Kansas, Kentucky, Louisiana, Maine, Maryland, Michigan, Minnesota, Missouri, Nebraska, New Jersey, New York, North Carolina, North Dakota, Oregon, Pennsylvania, Rhode Island, South Carolina, South Dakota, Virginia, Washington, West Virginia and Wisconsin.

Filing lawsuits in their respective state courts are the attorneys general of the District of Columbia, Massachusetts, Mississippi, New Hampshire, Oklahoma, Tennessee, Utah, and Vermont.

Join Ashland Post of Ohio Highway Patrol’s Epic ‘Cram the Cruiser’ Helping Those in Need This Season

“Join Ashland Post of Ohio Highway Patrol’s Epic ‘Cram the Cruiser’ Event: Helping Those in Need This Season!”

Are you looking for a way to give back to your community and help those in need? Well, look no further! On Saturday November 4th, 2023, from 10am to 2pm, the Ashland Post of the Ohio Highway Patrol Troopers will be hosting their annual “Cram the Cruiser” event at the Ashland Walmart, located at 1996 E Main St, Ashland, OH 44805. This event aims to gather donations of non-perishable items to benefit the Associated Charities of Ashland County Food-bank. It’s a wonderful opportunity to make a positive impact and lend a helping hand to those experiencing food insecurity.

What is “Cram the Cruiser”?

“Cram the Cruiser” is an annual event organized by the Ohio Highway Patrol Ashland Post 03 in partnership with the community. The goal of this event is to collect non-perishable items to support the Associated Charities of Ashland County Food-bank. This food drive is crucial in providing assistance to individuals and families in need, especially during the holiday season.

How Can You Participate?

Participating in “Cram the Cruiser” is simple and rewarding. All you need to do is visit the Ashland Walmart on Saturday November 4th, 2023, between 10am and 2pm, and donate non-perishable items. The troopers from the Ohio Highway Patrol will be stationed outside the store with their cruisers ready to be filled with your generous donations.

List of Suggested Items to Donate

Here is a list of suggested items that you can donate during the “Cram the Cruiser” event:

Cereal

Spaghetti Noodles & Sauce (Cans Only)

Macaroni and Cheese

Canned Meat (Tuna, Beef, Chicken)

Crackers

Ramen Noodles

Pancake Mix & Syrup

Peanut Butter & Jelly

Ketchup / Mustard

Toilet Paper

Dish Soap

Hygiene Products

Pick any of these items or a combination of them to contribute to this noble cause. Every donation, no matter how small, makes a significant difference in someone’s life.

Sponsored By: Ohio State Highway Patrol Ashland Post 03

The “Cram the Cruiser” event is proudly sponsored by the Ohio State Highway Patrol Ashland Post 03. Their commitment to serving and protecting the community extends beyond enforcing traffic laws. They understand the importance of giving back and supporting those in need.

Make a Difference Today!

Help us reach our goal of stuffing the cruiser full of non-perishable items by participating in the “Cram the Cruiser” event. All donations will directly benefit the Associated Charities of Ashland County, ensuring that individuals and families in our community have access to essential food items during challenging times.

Your contribution will help alleviate hunger and provide a sense of hope to those who need it most. Remember, even the smallest act of kindness can have a lasting impact. We encourage you to join us at the Ashland Walmart on Saturday November 4th, 2023, from 10am to 2pm and show your support.

“Cram the Cruiser” is an incredible opportunity to give back to your community and make a positive difference in someone’s life. By donating non-perishable items, you are directly supporting the Associated Charities of Ashland County Food-bank. Join us on Saturday November 4th, 2023, at the Ashland Walmart, located at 1996 E Main St, Ashland, OH 44805, and help us reach our goal of stuffing the cruiser full of essential food items.

Remember, every donation counts. Together, we can make a significant impact and show compassion to those who may be struggling. Let’s come together as a community and make this year’s “Cram the Cruiser” event the most successful one yet!

Note: Photo’s from previous year’s event.

Victim Dies from Injuries Sustained in Crash

Norwalk – On October 22, 2023, Lowell Brown, 84 years of age, from North Fairfield, died from injuries he sustained in a traffic crash on September 25, 2023.

On September 25, 2023 at 12 PM, Mr. Lowell was traveling south on Old State Rd at Dublin Rd in a 2022 Chevrolet Equinox. Vincent Croft, 18 years of age, from New London, was traveling west on Dublin Rd in a 2016 Chevrolet Cruze. Mr. Croft failed to stop at the stop sign and struck Mr. Lowell . Both vehicles traveled off the southwest corner of the intersection where they came to rest.

Mr. Lowell and Mr. Croft were transported to Fisher Titus Medical Center by North Central EMS. Mr. Lowell was later taken to Cleveland Metro with serious injuries.

Mr. Croft sustained minor injuries and they both were wearing their seat belts.

Both vehicles sustained disabling damage and were towed by Whites and Interstate.

Alcohol and drugs were not a factor and the crash remains under investigation

Ashland County Jail Achieves Outstanding Results in 2023 Annual Jail Inspection

 

In a letter from the Department of Rehabilitation and Correction, it has been announced that the Ashland County Jail has successfully passed their 2023 Annual Jail Inspection. This accomplishment demonstrates the commitment and dedication of the Ashland County Sheriff’s Office, and their corrections staff to maintain compliance with the Minimum Standards for Jails in Ohio. Let’s take a closer look at the inspection process, and the outstanding results achieved by the Ashland County Jail.

 

 

        The Annual Jail Inspection
 
 
 

According to the letter from Jack Barone, State Jail Inspector Bureau of Adult Detention, the Ashland County Jail underwent their 2023 Annual Jail Inspection on October 16th, 2023. This inspection was conducted in accordance with Section 5120.10 of the Ohio Revised Code, and Executive Order 92-03 of the Department of Rehabilitation and Correction. The inspection focused on assessing the jail’s compliance with a selected group of standards, as outlined in the Standards for Jails in Ohio.

 

         Scope of the Inspection

 
 

The inspection covered various areas of the Ashland County Jail’s operations, including: Reception & Release, Classification, Security, Housing, Sanitation and Environmental Conditions, Communication, Visitation, Medical and Mental Health Services, Food Service, Recreation and Programming, Inmate Discipline, Administrative Segregation, Grievance, Staffing, and Staff Training. It was a comprehensive assessment to ensure that all necessary standards were met.

 

      Impressive Results

 
 

The Ashland County Jail Inspection checked a total of 178 standards, divided into 53 “Essential” and 125 “Important”. The remarkable news is that the jail did not have any non-compliance issues with any of these standards. This achievement reflects the exceptional commitment of the Ashland County Sheriff’s Office and their corrections staff in upholding the highest level of professionalism, and adherence to regulations.

 

 

          Next Steps
 

While the Ashland County Jail received excellent results, it’s important to note that the letter from the State Jail Inspector also highlights that this inspection serves as a basis for identifying any deficiencies that may require corrective action. In other words, it provides an opportunity for continuous improvement, and ensures that any areas requiring attention are promptly addressed. This commitment to ongoing evaluation and improvement is a vital aspect of maintaining compliance with the Minimum Standards for Jails in Ohio.

 
         Sheriff’s Commendation
 
 

Sheriff E. Wayne Risner expressed his immense pride in the performance of the Ashland County Corrections staff. Their unwavering dedication and hard work have contributed to the successful outcome of this annual inspection. Sheriff Risner stated, “I’m extremely proud of every member of our Corrections staff. They work extremely hard around the clock, to ensure that all policies and procedures pertaining to Ohio Department of Rehabilitation & Correction regarding jail standards are enforced. The results of this annual Jail inspection certainly demonstrate that.”

 

 

 

         Conclusion

 
 

The successful passing of the 2023 Annual Jail Inspection by the Ashland County Jail is a testament to the commitment and expertise of the Ashland County Sheriff’s Office and their corrections staff. Their diligence and adherence to the highest standards ensure the safety and well-being of both inmates and staff. With no compliance issues found during the inspection, the Ashland County Jail has proved its dedication to maintaining excellence in all aspects of its operations.

Fugitives of the Week October 23, 2023

Nestor SalazarNestor Salazar Age: 34
White / Male / 5’9” / 175lbs / Black Hair / Brown Eyes
Wanted by U.S Marshals Service and Richland County Sheriff’s Office for illegal conveyance of drugs.
Ties to the Mansfield, Willard, and Columbus.

 

Sheena ConleySheena Conley Age: 38
White / female / 5’2’’ / 150lbs / Brown Hair / Blue Eyes
Wanted by the U.S Marshals Service and Richland County Sheriff’s Office for possession of heroin.
Ties to the Crestline and Bucyrus area.

 

 

Mario GodreyMario Godrey Age: 44
Black / Male / 5’9’’ / 220lbs / 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 vehicular homicide.
Ties to Mansfield and Cleveland area.

 

Derrick TaylorDerrick Taylor Age: 46
White / Male / 245lbs / Brown Hair / Brown Eyes
Wanted by the U.S Marshals and Richland County Sheriff’s office for felonious assault.
Ties to Mansfield, Baltic, and Bucyrus OH.

 

 

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.

Three County Pursuit Ends in Ashland County (Humor Side of the News!)

Well, well, well, folks, hold on to your seats because we’ve got quite the action-packed story for you today.

It all started when the Morrow County Sheriff’s Office received a report about a stolen vehicle in good ol’ Chesterville, Ohio. With their eyes peeled, they spotted the vehicle, ready to put an end to this little joyride.

But oh no, the driver had other plans. Refusing to stop, the chase was on! Word got out, and a bolo (that’s a “be on the lookout” for you non-cop lingo folks) was issued for the notorious Blue Nissan. It jumped onto I-71 with the pedal to the metal, leaving Mount Gilead in the dust.

Not to be outdone, the Ohio Highway Patrol from the Mount Gilead post joined the pursuit, sirens wailing and tires screeching. They weren’t alone for long, though, as the fine Troopers from the Mansfield Post joined the adventure too.

The chase continued, tearing through Richland County, an adrenaline-fueled blur of flashing lights and the persistent soundtrack of roaring engines. Finally, just when it seemed like this vehicular drama would never end, a clever move was made. Tire spikes were deployed at the 183mm, puncturing the ill-fated Nissan’s tire, hoping to bring this wild ride to a screeching halt.

Lo and behold, the suspects had other plans!

Throwing caution to the wind, they exited onto US 250 at the 186 mile marker, heading westbound like it was their last hurrah. Unfortunately for them, lady luck had had enough of their antics. Losing control, their stolen chariot slightly kissing the bridge wall, bringing their joyride to a dramatic climax.

As the dust settled, our brave law enforcement officers wasted no time. Three suspects, two fearless females, and a bold male surrendered without a fuss. Hands up, folks! They were promptly taken into custody, quite unamused but probably feeling a tad foolish. With their wild ride over, they were escorted straight to the Morrow County Jail, where they can ponder the choices that led them to this less-than-ideal predicament.

And that, my friends, is just another day on the Ohio highways. Stay tuned for more thrilling tales from our courageous law enforcement officers!

First “Jazz at the Nest” concert to take place Thursday, Oct. 26

ASHLAND, Ohio – The Ashland University Jazz Orchestra will perform its first “Jazz at the Nest” concert of the 2023-24 season on Thursday, Oct. 26. The event, which is free and open to the public, will take place in the Hawkins-Conard Student Center’s Eagle’s Nest starting at 7:30 p.m.

 

The AUJO, under the direction of Scott Garlock, a professor of music, has been providing the AU campus and greater Ashland community with diverse jazz programming and internationally recognized jazz artists for more than 50 years. The ensemble consists of various saxophone, trombone, trumpet and rhythm instruments played by both music and non-music majors.

 

Thursday’s concert will include songs from the Great American Songbook, defined as the most important and influential American popular songs and jazz standards from the early 20th century that have stood the test of time. Among the selections to be played are “Almost Like Being in Love” by Frederick Loewe and Alan Jay Lerner, Duke Ellington’s “Oclupapa,” “I Mean You” by Thelonious Monk and Coleman Hawkins and traditional favorites like “Danny Boy” and “Yankee Doodle.”

 

Garlock noted that “the award-winning ensemble is preparing for a trip to Spain in March and several of the selections heard at this concert will be featured in front of Spanish audiences.”

Feeding the Community: Matthew 25 Outreach Center Offers Free Grocery Distribution in Ashland County

Are you in need of groceries? Do you want to make a difference in your community? Look no further than the Matthew 25 Outreach Center of Ashland County’s free grocery distribution event. With the help of dedicated volunteers, Matthew 25 Outreach Center strives to provide food to those in need, all while spreading God’s love and peace. Whether you’re looking for assistance or wanting to lend a helping hand, this article will provide you with all the information you need to get involved.

Drive-Through Distribution: Saturday, October 28th

 

Matthew 25 Outreach Center free drive-through grocery distribution will take place on Saturday, October 28th, from 10:00 am to 1:00 pm. You can find us in the parking lot of the Luray Lanes, located at 647 E. Main St, in Ashland. Rain or shine, Matthew 25 Outreach Center volunteers will be there to assist you.

Dress for the Weather!

Since the entire distribution is outdoors, please dress accordingly. It’s essential to be prepared for the weather conditions on that day. However, if you need a break from the elements, the bowling alley will be open, providing access to restrooms and shelter.

Volunteer Opportunities: Join us in Making a Difference

Our work at the Matthew 25 Outreach Center of Ashland County wouldn’t be possible without the help of our amazing volunteers. Whether you can spare a few hours or the entire day, your assistance will be greatly appreciated. Here are some ways you can get involved:

Staging Process: Meet us at 7:00 am to help with the initial staging process, as the truckload of food arrives.

Traffic Control: Your assistance at 7:00 am to help direct traffic will be invaluable.

Packaging: Join us at 8:00 am to help package bulk foods into family-size packages, making them ready for distribution.

Registration: At 8:00 am, we need volunteers to help register every family that receives food. Don’t worry; we’ll provide a quick training session for this role.

Home Deliveries: If you have a personal vehicle, you can assist with home deliveries starting at 8:00 am. This is a rewarding experience, knowing you’re bringing food directly to those who can’t make it to the distribution site.

More Ways to Help

If you can’t join us on the fourth Saturday of each month, that doesn’t mean you can’t make a difference. We have additional volunteer opportunities, such as delivering shelf-stable food boxes to seniors in Ashland County. These deliveries take place throughout the month, offering flexibility for those with busy schedules.

Another option is helping us install yard signs during the week of our distribution. Contact us for more information about this volunteer opportunity.

Volunteers of All Ages and Abilities Welcome

We believe that volunteer opportunities should be accessible to everyone. Therefore, we welcome volunteers of all ages and abilities to join us in distributing free groceries and sharing God’s love with the people of Ashland County. Bring your friends, family, neighbors, and co-workers along for an impactful day.

The Matthew 25 Outreach Center of Ashland County’s free grocery distribution event is a shining example of what a community can achieve when they come together with a common purpose. Whether you need assistance or have time to spare, we encourage you to join us on Saturday, October 28th, for a rewarding experience. Let’s make a difference and spread love to those in need.

ASHLAND WEATHER