ASHLAND COUNTY – The Ohio Department of Transportation (ODOT) has announced several construction projects that will impact roadways in Ashland County next week. All outlined work is weather permitting and subject to change.
U.S. Route 42 Bridge Replacement
Location: U.S. 42, between SR 89 and Township Road 553
Impact: Single lane closures for a bridge replacement project. Traffic will be maintained using temporary traffic signals. Lane widths will be reduced to 10 feet through the work zone.
New Impacts: Township Road 543 will be closed for 75 days. The detour route is TR 543 to TR 1275 east to TR 593 to U.S. 42, and reverse. Estimated reopening is Saturday, September 21, 2024.
Estimated Completion: October 2024
U.S. Route 42 & State Route 302 Intersection Improvement
Project: Conversion of the current two-way stop-controlled intersection into a single-lane roundabout.
Continuing Impacts:
Phase 1 Construction: SR 302 eastbound direction, from U.S. 42 to Township Rd 251/1080 intersection, remains closed for roundabout construction. The U.S. 42 and SR 302 intersection remains open for travel along U.S. 42. Access on SR 302 will be maintained for residents only, who will need to enter from SR 302 westbound.
Detour Route: SR 302 west to SR 301 north to U.S. 224 west to SR 58 south to SR 302, and reverse.
Phase 1 Duration: Approximately from April 2024 to August 2024.
Estimated Completion: October 2024
Interstate 71 Bridge Repairs
Location: Various locations between U.S. 30 and SR 301
Impact: Single lane closures in both directions for bridge repairs. Traffic will be maintained at all times.
Estimated Completion: September 2024
State Route 89 & State Route 302 Intersection Improvement
Project: Conversion of the current two-way stop-controlled intersection into a single-lane roundabout.
Continuing Impacts:
Phase 2 Construction: The SR 89 and SR 302 intersection is closed for 60 days to construct the remaining roundabout.
Detour Routes:
Local detour: SR 89 north to U.S. 42 east to SR 301 north to U.S. 224 west to SR 58 south to SR 89, and reverse.
All other motorists: SR 302 west to SR 301 north to U.S. 224 west to SR 58 south to SR 302, and reverse.
Phase 2 Duration: Approximately from June 2024 to August 2024.
Estimated Completion of Phase 2: Friday, August 2, 2024.
Estimated Completion: October 2024
U.S. Route 224 Culvert Replacement
Location: U.S. 224, between Troy Township Road 791 and County Road 681
New Impacts: Closure starting Monday, July 22 for a culvert replacement. The detour route will be U.S. 224 east to SR 511 north to SR 162 east to SR 58 south to U.S. 224, and reverse.
Estimated Completion: Friday, August 2, 2024
Stay informed on these projects to plan your routes accordingly and ensure safe travels through Ashland County during this construction period.
Lorain County, OH – The Lorain County Sheriff’s Office has ramped up efforts to locate Veronica Hayden Dininger, a missing 17-year-old girl last seen in the early hours of July 21, 2024.
Veronica’s mother, Jessica McClellan, made an emotional plea on Facebook to the community, stating, “My daughter, Veronica Hayden Dininger, has been missing since 12:27 a.m. on July 21, 2024. The authorities are involved, and any information on her whereabouts would be greatly appreciated. Please contact the Lorain County Sheriff’s Department or the Village of Wellington Police. She’s 5’3”, with waist-length blonde hair and green eyes, approximately 108 lbs. She was seen in grey sweatpants and a grey or light blue crew neck sweatshirt, with white Nike high tops with a black swoosh. She was last seen leaving our front porch at 12:27 a.m. on Sunday, July 21. We have reason to believe she got into a vehicle with someone at this time. Someone knows something! Thank you everyone for the continued support.”
Lieutenant J. Croston of the Lorain County Sheriff’s Office also issued a statement: “The Lorain County Sheriff’s Office is seeking information as to the whereabouts of Veronica Dininger. She is a 17-year-old white female who left her residence on July 21, 2024. Veronica was last seen wearing a black t-shirt and black leggings. She is approximately 5’3″ and 108 pounds, with long blonde hair and green eyes. No indications of foul play have been discovered at this time. Anyone with information on her whereabouts can contact the Lorain County Sheriff’s Office at 440-329-3710 or your local law enforcement.”
Authorities urge anyone with information, no matter how minor it may seem, to come forward. The community is asked to remain vigilant and report any potential sightings or leads. Lorain County Sheriff’s Office at 440-329-3710
COLUMBUS –This week Ohio Governor Mike DeWine signed House Bill 158, legislation to update Cosmetology and Barber Board statues, into law at a ceremony at the Ohio State Fair, announced Rep. Melanie Miller (R-City of Ashland).
The legislation was introduced by Miller in 2023, and the law will reduce barriers for students getting their barbering and cosmetology licenses. It received unanimous support throughout the legislative process.
“Since the State Boards of Cosmetology and Barbering were combined into one board in 2017, we have seen the need to harmonize the sections of the Ohio Revised Code on Cosmetology and Barbering to match,” said Miller. “I am confident that these and other changes that update our code will serve to encourage the Barber and Cosmetology industry to grow and thrive in Ohio.”
“I’d like to thank my joint sponsor, Rep. Bill Roemer, my colleagues in the Ohio House and Ohio Governor Mike DeWine for signing this forward-thinking legislation into law,” said Miller.
Key provisions of the law include:
Creating a unified barbering/cosmetology school license, to eliminate duplicative applications for facilities that teach both cosmetology and barbering.
Enhancing license reciprocity from other states.
Reducing fines for disciplinary actions.
Establishing temporary pre-examination work permits for barbers.
Lowering the age to apply for a barber license or to start barbering school to 16 years of age
Eliminating a requirement that a barber student complete 200 additional hours of training before re-taking the licensing exam.
Preventing the board from charging interest or penalty fees for unpaid fines.
Creating an independent contractor license, eliminating “shop within a shop” licenses
Creating a process to designate a license as “inactive.”
Allowing the board to independently set the passing score for the barber exam, rather than keeping it in statute.
Ashland County, OH — The scenic Avian Acres Farm Park on State Route 89 witnessed a historic event as 55 Northern Bobwhite Quail were released into their new habitat. The initiative, led by Ashland County Park District Commissioner Bob DeSanto and Avian Acres Manager Andy McClure, with a special thanks to Ron and Eddie Flanek for donating the birds which aims to restore the population of these native birds in the area.
Commissioner DeSanto expressed his enthusiasm for the project, stating, “We’re trying to restore the Bobwhite quail to this area. By releasing these 55 today, it gives them a good start.” DeSanto also encouraged the community to visit the park, emphasizing that the quail are not to be hunted but enjoyed. “So, folks, if you haven’t been out to Avian Acres, it’s off of State Route 89. It’s one of our newest parks. You’ll love it.” DeSanto commented.
The Northern Bobwhite, also known as the Virginia quail, is a ground-dwelling bird native to North America. Known for their distinctive “bob-white” call, these birds have experienced a sharp decline over the past fifty years due to habitat loss and changes in agriculture. Their release at Avian Acres represents a significant step in conservation efforts to revive their population.
Avian Acres Farm Park, a 300-acre expanse of woodlands, farmland, wetlands, and a historical barn, was officially opened to the public in fall 2022. The park, which also features a fishing pond and the Jerome Fork, was donated by the Taylor family on behalf of Louaine Leisching. The historical barn on the property, dating back to the early 1820s, is the oldest documented barn in Ashland County.
The park district plans to preserve the barn and continue farming the land, aligning with their mission to preserve the region’s agricultural heritage. Future developments include additional trails and facilities to enhance visitor experiences.
As the Northern Bobwhite quail make their new home in Avian Acres, the community is invited to witness and enjoy the beauty of these birds and the rich history of the park.
The Ashland County Clerk of Courts is pleased to announce that it now accepts passport applications in the Title Office on behalf of the U.S. Department of State. U.S. citizens planning international travel may apply for their passports at the Title Office.
Effective immediately, Clerk Deb Myers and her staff are excited to offer this service again to the citizens of Ashland and surrounding communities. Appointments are now available.
Appointments are required and may be made by calling (419) 282-4293 on Monday through Friday from 8:00 a.m. until 4:00 p.m. The physical address is at Common Pleas Courthouse, 142 W. 2nd Street, Basement Level, Ashland.
For applications forms, information on documentation required, fees, and a wealth of other passport and international travel information, visit the only official website for passport information – travel.state.gov.
LifeWise Academy recently addressed a controversial letter sent out by clergy in Huron, Ohio and a subsequent Facebook post that has sparked debate within the community. In an exclusive interview, Pastor John Bouquet of Bethel Chapel and LifeWise Advancement Team Member Buddy Workman shared their perspectives and clarified the organization’s stance.
Addressing the Concerns
Buddy Workman identified three main points of contention raised in the letter: curriculum, fundraising, and the use of church buildings.
Curriculum Transparency
“The curriculum is the easiest one to address,” Workman stated. “People think that we’re hiding something, but we have a license agreement with The Gospel Project for the use of our curriculum. Any local director—Mary, Ginny, Morgan , Leann, Connie , Pam, Michelle, Lori, Nina and myself.—if anyone wants to sit down and review the curriculum, we are more than happy to show them. This includes the curriculum, the guides on how to teach it, and the whole nine yards.”
Fundraising Efforts
Pastor John Bouquet emphasized the commitment to making the program accessible to all children without financial burden. “It doesn’t cost the kids anything. We raise all the money. I raise hundreds of thousands of dollars every year for LifeWise because we believe in this program. It’s the mission of this church and many other churches in Ashland County.”
Use of Church Buildings
Addressing the use of church buildings, Bouquet added, “We understand that there are churches with pastors and congregations that do not endorse this program. We appreciate them speaking their minds, but we don’t agree. There are churches, parents, and students that want to participate, and we want to make it available. It will change the life of your children.”
The Impact of LifeWise Academy
Bouquet, who has been in ministry for 42 years, passionately supports LifeWise Academy. “I’ve been involved with LifeWise from the very beginning and fully endorse it because it teaches the word of God, a life-changing book. Thousands of children in Ashland County have participated in this program over the last few years.”
He continued, “Most children that go through this program come out with a smiling face, an improved life perspective, a better understanding of God, and they become better students, better daughters and sons, and eventually better citizens.”
A Call for Continued Support
Despite the controversy, LifeWise Academy remains steadfast in its mission. “To the moms and dads with their kids enrolled, keep them there. They’ll be blessed tremendously,” Bouquet urged. “For those concerned about the controversy, know that this program positively impacts children’s lives.”
Looking Ahead
LifeWise Academy plans to continue its outreach and address concerns openly. “We thank everyone for their feedback,” Workman concluded. “Our doors are always open for discussions, and we remain committed to our mission of providing a faith-based education to those who seek it.”
The debate surrounding LifeWise Academy emphasizes the importance of dialogue and understanding within the community, as both supporters and critics voice their opinions on the role of faith-based education in public life.
Aber’s Towing & Crane Service Hosts 2nd Annual Touch a Truck & Car Show
Ashland, OH – Aber’s Towing & Crane Service hosted its 2nd annual Touch a Truck & Car Show today, offering a fun-filled day from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. at 1180 Commerce Parkway. The event, which benefited the Ashland Associated Charities, by raising a total of $6,550, featured free admission for spectators and delivered a variety of activities and attractions for all ages.
The event brought together the community with an impressive lineup of participants and activities. Highlights included displays from the First Responders, Ashland County Sheriff’s Office Bomb Squad, Ashland Fire Department, and a University Hospitals AirMed landing. Kids enjoyed face painting by Whoopsie Daisy Bowtique, an inflatable obstacle course, and the chance to explore Aber’s Towing & Crane equipment and classic and custom hot rods from Hot Rods Take Back the Streets.
The Ashland County Sheriff’s Office Bomb Squad not only showcased their equipment but also handed out stickers to the children. The Ashland Fire Department set up a fun physical obstacle course and allowed kids to spray water from the fire hose. The face painting by Whoopsie Daisy Bowtique was a hit, with children lining up to get creative designs painted on their faces. The landing of the University Hospitals AirMed helicopter was a highlight, leaving kids in awe as they watched the impressive arrival.
The inflatable obstacle course proved to be a favorite among the kids, offering endless fun and excitement. Local food vendors provided a variety of delicious options, including refreshing lemonade, ensuring that everyone was well-fed throughout the event.
Aber’s Towing & Crane Service’s 2nd annual Touch a Truck & Car Show was a resounding success, drawing a large crowd and providing a memorable day for the community while supporting a great cause.
Aber’s Logistics Coordinator, Cameron Fowler said, “Aber’s towing and it’s staff would like to thank this year’s sponsors. Smetz’s Tire & Service Center with a $2k donation. Cowen Truck Line with a $350 donation. as well as Aber’s Towing with a donation of $2500. We want to sincerely thank the community for coming out to help show support and help us with a successful and fun filled day! We are very proud to do our part and help give back to our community and show our gratefulness for your business and support! We look forward to another fun filled year next year with plenty of more fun and activities. And don’t forget if you need a tow! You know where to go! After all Aber’s does stand for Ashland’s Best Emergency Road Service!”
Franklin Township – The Ohio State Highway Patrol, Mansfield Post, is investigating a fatal crash involving a 2014 Dodge Grand Caravan and a 2018 Harley Davidson Street Glide Motorcycle on State Route 96 at the intersection of Ganges Five Points Road.
Paul Huffman, age 45, of Shiloh, was operating the Harley Davison Motorcycle westbound on State Route 96. Dustin Smith, age 38, of Mansfield, was operating the Dodge Grand Caravan northbound on Ganges Five Points Road. Mr. Smith failed to yield at a stop sign and was struck within the intersection by Mr. Huffman. After being struck, the motorcycle traveled off the right side of State Route 96.
The crash occurred on July 20, 2024, at approximately 4:05 P.M. Mr. Huffman was transported by Franklin Township EMS to Ohio Health Mansfield Hospital where he succumbed to his injuries.
The Mansfield Post was assisted by the Bucyrus Post, Richland County Sheriff’s Office, Franklin Township Fire & EMS, Weller Township Fire & EMS, Richland County Coroner and Westside Towing.
On the afternoon of Tuesday, July 16, 2024, Ashland Police Division Detectives executed a search warrant at 612 Edgehill Ave. By Wednesday, 18-year-old Jacob Keener of Ashland was in custody. At his video bond hearing this morning, Keener appeared before Ashland County Common Pleas Court Magistrate Emily M. Bates and Assistant Prosecuting Attorney Michael J. Callow to face one count of unlawful sexual conduct with a minor, a fourth-degree felony.
Charges Details
According to the charges, on or about July 15, 2024, in Ashland County, Ohio, Jacob Keener, had sexual conduct with a minor, Jane Doe. Court records states that Keener was aware or reckless in his knowledge that Jane Doe was between 13 and 16 years old, violating Ohio Revised Code Section 2907.04(A) and 2907.04(B)(1).
Bond and Conditions
Jacob Keener
Keener’s bond was set at $75,000, requiring either a surety bond or a cash deposit. The court imposed several conditions for his release on bond, including:
Jacob Keener
Signing a personal recognizance
Not leaving Ohio without court permission
Appearing at all future hearings
Keeping the court informed of his current address and phone number
Obeying all Ohio laws and court orders
Abstaining from drugs and alcohol, with random testing at his expense
Seeking drug/alcohol and mental health assessments and complying with treatment plans
Enrolling in the court’s drug testing/bond program
Undergoing GPS monitoring with associated fees
Adhering to a curfew from 10:00 p.m. to 6:00 a.m. at his approved residence
Having no contact with Jane Doe or any other minor in any form
Keener is scheduled for his next criminal video appearance on July 23, 2024, at 11:45 AM.
Richland County, Washington Township — The Mansfield Post of the Ohio State Highway Patrol is investigating a two-vehicle fatal crash. The fatal crash occurred on June 19, 2024, around 5:04 AM, on State Route 13 near mile post 7.
Tarin Hoffman, age 36, of Mansfield, was driving a 2004 Dodge Dakota North on State Route 13. Ms. Hoffman drove left of center striking Kami Coe, age 34, of Ashland, who was driving A 2015 Subaru Outback south on State Route 13.
Ms. Hoffman had two passengers, Nathan Phillips, age 48, of Mansfield and Shannon Spicer, age 40 of Mansfield.
Ms. Hoffman’s vehicle overturned and came to rest on the west edge Of the roadway. Mr. Phillips was pronounced deceased at the scene.
Ms. Hoffman and Mr. Spicer were transported to Ohio Health Mansfield for serious injuries.
Ms. Coe was treated and released at the scene.
Ms. Hoffman and Mr. Spicer were not wearing seat-belts. Ms. Coe and Mr. Phillips were wearing seat-belts.
The Mansfield Post was assisted by Bellville Police Department, Washington and Jefferson Township Fire, Richland County Coroner’s Office, Mikes Marathon Towing and Ohio Department of Transportation.
Joe Lyons •
July 25, 2024
Lorain County, OH – The Lorain County Sheriff’s Office has ramped up efforts to locate Veronica Hayden Dininger, a missing 17-year-old girl last seen in the early hours of July 21, 2024.
Jacob Keener
Richland County, Washington Township — The Mansfield Post of the Ohio State Highway Patrol is investigating a two-vehicle fatal crash. The fatal crash occurred on June 19, 2024, around 5:04 AM, on State Route 13 near mile post 7.