ASHLAND, Ohio – Randy Spade, the director of admissions at Ashland University, was recognized with the Employer Support of the Guard and Reserve’s (ESGR) Patriot Award during a ceremony at AU’s Jack W. Liebert Military and Veteran Resource Center on May 17.
An ESGR Patriot Award is awarded to individual supervisors who contribute to “national security and protecting liberty and freedom by supporting employee participation in America’s National Guard and Reserve Force,” as stated on the certificate. It recognizes an individual’s dedication and efforts made to support citizen warriors through a wide range of measures, including flexible schedules, time off prior to and after deployment, caring for families and granting leaves of absence as needed.
Spade found himself at a rare loss of words when formally presented with the honor by John McCance, chairman of the Ohio Committee for ESGR, and Ernie Stone, the committee’s employer outreach director.
“This just kind of threw me for an entire loop, a whole loop, a 360-degree loop. I’m grateful and I’m honored beyond the words that I can say. I love what we do. I love who we do it for. And, I love that we’re all together again to do that,” said a completely surprised Spade, who was joined by most of the admissions staff for the occasion. “From the bottom of my heart, thank you. This means a lot.”
Winners of the award are nominated by an employee serving in the National Guard or Reserve and then the state committee reviews the nomination. Spade was nominated by Ryan Yeater, a full-time recruitment specialist for AU who also serves as a staff sergeant and motor transport operator for the Ohio National Guard.
“Randy Spade has been a military advocate since the day I met him and even before. He believes that those in the military should be recognized and have benefits that (are) utilized to their potential. He believes that veterans, current military, military spouses and children have unique experiences,” wrote Yeater in his nomination letter.
Yeater continued, “Within the past five years, he has taken Ashland University to a standard of military and veteran services that colleges and universities not only in Ohio, but nationwide, look up to. He has taken an office that was in a back corner and transformed it into a standalone building, a housing option and dedicated employees that deal with veterans and their children in order to maximize their educational benefits. He strives to see everyone that walks though his door come through the other side with a degree in their hand and as little debt as possible. He has assisted with fundraisers and campaigns all in the name of veteran support. Randy is the poster child of what a civilian military supporter should strive to be.”
McCance noted that ESGR supports approximately 28,000 Reserve Component members in 318 units across Ohio and the committee gives out “maybe 50 Patriot Awards” per year.
“When a Reserve Component member takes the time to make the application … that, to me, speaks volumes of the relationship between the Reserve Component member and their employer and the culture in which that member has the opportunity to serve. So, thank you very much for supporting (Ryan) and all of the Reserve Component members, and this facility is amazing,” McCance remarked.
Spade, who has held various positions at AU since July 2015, is not a veteran himself, but he feels called to support military-connected employees as well as students and their families.
“They deserve our respect and admiration and our care and compassion. Taking care of them is the best thing we can do to support our patriotic duty. There’s no higher honor than taking care of those men and women,” explained Spade.
He continued, “I can tell you every veteran that I’ve ever worked with and everyone of their stories and … everyone of their journeys that we went on together. You don’t get opportunities like that very often, and I get to have those every day. Every new veteran we meet is … a new journey we get to go on, a new adventure. To help them create a new life after their service to our country is so rewarding, it’s not work. It’s the adventure of a lifetime.”
AU, a member of the first class of Collegiate Purple Star campuses, proudly supports the 408 military-connected students (and their families) who were enrolled last academic year as well as the thousands of alumni who are veterans.
“It’s an honor for the university to receive an award that recognizes how much we care about our military teammates. We’re happy to be a place where service members know that when they come home, their team is still waiting for them,” said Spade of the Patriot Award.
ESGR, established in 1972, is a Department of Defense program that develops and promotes supportive work environments for Reserve Component members from the National Guard and Reserve. With a staff comprised of dedicated and trained volunteers, ESGR advocates relevant initiatives, recognizes outstanding support, increases awareness of applicable laws and resolves conflict between civilian employers and service members.
Getting ready for memorial weekend, pool opening, putt golf opening, and Flowers downtown
Downtown restrooms
Safari animals
Sidewalk Grant on US Route 250
Pump House district update.
Sewer rate increase
I would like to give a huge shout-out to Bill Harris Dealerships for sponsoring the monthly updates with Ashland Mayor, Matt Miller. this 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.
The Northern Ohio Violent Fugitive Task Force is offering a reward for information which would lead to the capture of fugitive Drake Maynard. Maynard is wanted by the U.S. Marshals Service and the Richland County Sheriff’s Office for strangulation. Maynard, 24, is described as a white male with brown hair and brown eyes, standing 5 feet 10 inches tall. Maynard has ties to the city of Mansfield.
Drake Maynard
The Northern Ohio Violent Fugitive Task Force is offering a reward for information which would lead to the capture of fugitive David Greene. Greene is wanted by the U.S. Marshals Service and the Richland County Sheriff’s Office on a fail to verify address as a sex offender. Greene, 38, is described as a white male with brown hair and hazel eyes, standing 6 feet 0 inches tall. Greene has ties to the city of Mansfield and Galion.
David Greene
The Northern Ohio Violent Fugitive Task Force is offering a reward for information which would lead to the capture of fugitive Nestor Salazar. Salazar is wanted U.S. Marshals Service and the Richland County Sheriff’s Office for illegal conveyance of drugs. Salazar, 34, is described as a Hispanic male with black hair and brown eyes, standing 5 feet 9 inches tall. Salazar has ties to the cities of Willard and Columbus.
Nestor Salazar
The Northern Ohio Violent Fugitive Task Force is offering a reward for information which would lead to the capture of fugitive Jose Flores. Flores is wanted by the U.S. Marshals Service and the Richland County Sheriff’s Office for Rape. Flores, 45, is described as a Hispanic male with brown hair and brown eyes, standing 5 feet, 11 inches tall. Flores has ties to the cities of Mansfield, Bakersfield CA, and Fernley, NV.
Jose Flores
If you have any information in reference to , Drake Maynard, David Greene, Nestor Salazar, or Jose Flores, please contact the Northern Ohio Violent Fugitive Task Force at 1-866-4WANTED or Text keyword WANTED and tip to 847411 (tip411). Tipsters can remain anonymous and reward money is available.
G. William Benz, Ph.D., who served as president of Ashland University from 1993-2006, passed away in Albuquerque, N.M., on May 8. He was 88.
Benz’s impressive career in academia was headlined by leading AU during a time of significant growth. Among the highlights of his 13-year administration were:
The “Building on Strength” comprehensive fundraising campaign, which raised $59.4 million over a five-year period (the largest in AU’s history at the time)
Construction of 12 new buildings, including the Hawkins-Conard Student Center, the Dauch College of Business and Economics and the Rybolt Health Sciences and Recreation Center
Establishment of Doctor of Education and Master of American History and Government degrees
Increase in academic standards for undergraduate students (ACT scores, high school GPA, class rank, etc.)
Strengthening of faculty, in terms of both numbers and quality scholarship
Benz called his time as Ashland’s president as “probably the source of my greatest enjoyment” during a 2006 interview with Accent magazine. “It has given me the chance to work with some extraordinary people at an institution that I believe in very strongly and … feel privileged to have had the opportunity to share in its success,” he added.
Prior to coming to Ashland, Benz was at Ohio Wesleyan University from 1986-93, serving as special assistant to the president, provost and chief academic officer. He was also a dean at Defiance College and a professor at Trinity College, Lake Forest College and Whitworth College.
Benz, who grew up in Fort Scott, Kan., and Ontario, Calif., served in the U.S. Navy for four years and was involved in highly-sensitive intelligence work as a Russian language specialist. He spent months at sea on a submarine, eavesdropping on Soviet military radio transmissions.
That experience inspired an interest in Soviet politics and Russian history, and upon leaving the military, Benz attended the University of California at Riverside. He later earned a Ph.D. in Soviet studies from the Fletcher School of Law and Diplomacy at Tufts University.
Benz’s wife of seven decades, Gerry Benz, survives.
According to his son, Stephen Benz, “Bill and Gerry loved Ashland very much and they continued to follow AU news while in retirement. My father took particular delight in the successes of the women’s basketball team. The memorial service will prominently feature purple and gold.”
ASHLAND, OH – In a case that has gripped the local community, Christopher Ferrell appeared before the Ashland County Court of Common Pleas this morning, accompanied by his attorney, Gregory Tarkowsky. Ferrell, who was indicted by a grand jury on January 11, 2024, on two felony counts, one for cruelty to companion animals and the other for unlawful possession of dangerous ordnance, changed his plea to guilty on April 12, 2024. The court proceedings, overseen by Hon. Judge David R. Stimpert and prosecuted by Ashland County Prosecuting Attorney Christopher R. Tunnell, concluded with Ferrell being sentenced to 18 months in prison.
The Case Details
The indictment stemmed from a troubling incident involving the severe mistreatment of a cat. Ferrell, who had initially pleaded not guilty on January 2, 2024, later, changed his plea following discussions with his legal counsel. During the hearing, Tarkowsky presented a narrative in which Ferrell was left to care for a cat after his roommate, the original owner, moved out. Ferrell claimed that the cat exhibited aggressive behavior towards him and his ferrets, leading to the regrettable actions that followed.
Defense’s Argument
Tarkowsky articulated Ferrell’s remorse, stating, “Speaking with my client, he does regret the actions in this case. Unfortunately, the roommate left, which resulted in my client kind of taking ownership of the cat. My client told me that the cat unfortunately had a poor disposition with him as well as his other animals. This ultimately led to him taking the actions which are obviously regrettable in this situation.” Tarkowsky emphasized Ferrell’s cooperation with law enforcement, his clean felony record, failing to mention the numerous misdemeanor convictions, instead focusing on his success on prior probation, portraying him as a suitable candidate for community control.
Prosecution’s Rebuttal
Prosecutor Tunnell, however, presented a completely different interpretation of Ferrell’s actions and character. He highlighted Ferrell’s extensive misdemeanor history, arguing that it demonstrated a pattern of poor judgment and criminal thinking. Tunnell meticulously detailed the sequence of events leading to the cat’s death, emphasizing the deliberate and cruel nature of Ferrell’s actions.
“The PSI notes significant prior criminal history, and while there are no felonies, there are many misdemeanor convictions. This highlights what the state sees as continued criminal thinking on behalf of this defendant,” Tunnell argued. He recounted how Ferrell stomped on the cat with steel-toed boots, attempted to shoot it with a pellet gun, and then left it to die in a dumpster. The cat, found alive but in critical condition, had to be euthanized due to its injuries.
Judge’s Ruling
Judge Stimpert, delivering his judgment, echoed Tunnell’s sentiments, stating, “Mr. Ferrell, the presentence investigation statement that you gave might be one of the most incredible ones I have ever seen. It’s simply impossible to believe this was an accident that occurred by you stepping on a cat in a dark room.”
Judge Stimpert meticulously detailed the injuries sustained by the cat, including severe internal bleeding, bruised sternum fragments, and hyperthermia. He criticized Ferrell’s lack of empathy and understanding of the severity of his actions, which he described as “beyond intentional.”
Sentencing
Given the gravity of the offenses and Ferrell’s apparent lack of remorse, Judge Stimpert sentenced him to 18 months in prison. This sentence reflects the seriousness with which the court viewed the crimes, particularly the deliberate cruelty inflicted upon the animal.
Cat House Feline Sanctuary Inc. Statement
The Cat House Feline Sanctuary, Inc. Released a statement after the sentencing, “We are very pleased with the sentencing for this case. While nothing can bring the kitty back or reverse the suffering it was subjected to, we feel justice has been served. It is good to see the maximum jail time for the offense was given. The statements of both Prosecutor Tunnell and Judge Stimpert show that our elected officials take seriously the needless abuse the kitty suffered. We hope the public seeing the outcome and the penalty will help deter it from ever happening again.”
Conclusion
This case serves as a stark reminder of the legal responsibilities and ethical duties involved in animal care. It underscores the importance of humane treatment of animals and the severe consequences of failing to uphold these standards. Ferrell’s sentence is a significant Ashland County statement on the judiciary’s stance against animal cruelty and the unlawful possession of dangerous weapons.
Ashland County, OH – Kelly Hickey, Administrative Assistant/Safety for the Ashland County Engineer’s Office, issued a public announcement today regarding an extended closure of CSX Railway crossings in Ruggles Township.
The affected crossings, located on Township Road 126, County Road 1181, and Township Road 1101, will remain closed until Wednesday, May 22nd, to facilitate railway crossing rehabilitation works. Commuters and residents are advised to plan alternative routes and adjust travel schedules accordingly during this period.
The closure is part of ongoing efforts to enhance railway infrastructure and ensure the safety and efficiency of transportation networks in the region. Crews will be conducting essential maintenance and upgrades to improve the condition and functionality of the crossings.
The Ashland County Engineer’s Office anticipates that the affected roads will reopen by the end of the day on Wednesday, May 22nd, pending the completion of the rehabilitation works. However, commuters are advised to stay updated on any changes or delays that may occur during the closure period.
For inquiries or further information regarding the closure, individuals are encouraged to contact CSX Railroad at (800) 232-0144.
Ashland County, OH – Kelly Hickey, Administrative Assistant/Safety for the Ashland County Engineer’s Office, issued a public announcement today regarding an extended closure of CSX Railway crossings in Ruggles Township.
The affected crossings, located on Township Road 126, County Road 1181, and Township Road 1101, will remain closed until Wednesday, May 22nd, to facilitate railway crossing rehabilitation works. Commuters and residents are advised to plan alternative routes and adjust travel schedules accordingly during this period.
The closure is part of ongoing efforts to enhance railway infrastructure and ensure the safety and efficiency of transportation networks in the region. Crews will be conducting essential maintenance and upgrades to improve the condition and functionality of the crossings.
The Ashland County Engineer’s Office anticipates that the affected roads will reopen by the end of the day on Wednesday, May 22nd, pending the completion of the rehabilitation works. However, commuters are advised to stay updated on any changes or delays that may occur during the closure period.
For inquiries or further information regarding the closure, individuals are encouraged to contact CSX Railroad at (800) 232-0144.
The Ashland Law Enforcement Memorial Ceremony, held annually to honor local law enforcement officers who made the ultimate sacrifice while serving Ashland County, took place with solemn heartfelt reverence. This year’s ceremony, held yesterday, saw both the law enforcement community, friends and family highlighting the deep respect and appreciation for those who dedicate their lives to public safety.
The event commenced with a stirring display of patriotism, as Ashland Police Division Officers presented the colors, followed by an opening prayer led by Pastor Harry Strachan of Calvary Baptist Church. State Representative Melanie Miller’s rendition of the National Anthem, accompanied by the Pledge of Allegiance led by Lieutenant Randy Wood, set an emotional tone for the evening.
Sheriff E. Wayne Risner, in his address, eloquently emphasized the significance of the ceremony in honoring the memory and sacrifice of fallen officers. He spoke of the enduring bond forged with the families of these brave individuals and reiterated the commitment to never forget their service and sacrifice.
Among the heroes remembered were Deputy Jacob Helbert and Constable William H. Kelly, who tragically lost their lives on February 25, 1888, while attempting to serve a Writ of Habeas Corpus. Their bravery and dedication to duty serve as timeless examples for all who follow in their footsteps.
Detective Sergeant Glenn M. Sturgill, Lt. John P. Gisclon, Trooper James R. Gross, and Ranger James R. Pitney were also honored for their selfless acts of courage. Each of these officers made the ultimate sacrifice in the line of duty, leaving behind grieving families and a grateful community.
Sheriff Risner made a special mention of the recent loss of members of the US Marshals Task Force in Charlotte, North Carolina, highlighting the shared bond of service and sacrifice among law enforcement agencies across the nation. Deputy U.S. Marshal Thomas M. Weeks, Task Force Officer Samuel Poloche, Task Force Officer William “Alden” Elliott, and Police Officer Joshua Eyer, who lost their lives while serving a fugitive warrant, were remembered with reverence and respect.
Addressing the gathering, Sheriff Risner extended gratitude to Chief Deputy US Marshal Brian Fitzgibbon for his presence and participation in the ceremony, acknowledging the solidarity and camaraderie shared between law enforcement agencies. “As many of you know, Ashland County serves with Richland County and other local agencies as part of the Marshals Service NOVFTF, Chief Deputy US Marshal Brian Fitzgibbon is a credit to the Marshal’s service and to law enforcement certainly in this region of Ohio. The Northern Ohio Violent Fugitive Task Force Under Marshal Peter Elliott and Chief Deputy Fitzgibbon’s leadership and guidance working with the local Task force member agencies have made our community safer. ” Sheriff Risner remarked,
The guest speaker was former Ashland County Prosecutor and Ashland County Park Commissioner, Robert P. DeSanto of DeSanto & Kellogg, LLC, who delivered a moving address. DeSanto, acknowledging the remarkable dedication of Sheriff Risner, reflected on the selflessness and courage exemplified by law enforcement officers.
In a moving tribute, DeSanto recounted the stories of three fallen heroes from Ashland County: Detective Sergeant Glen Sturgill, Lieutenant John Gisclon, and Trooper James Gross. Each of these officers met their untimely end while steadfastly serving and protecting their community.
Detective Sergeant Glen Sturgill’s tragic demise in 1982, while in pursuit of armed robbers, highlighted the dangers faced by law enforcement officers daily. Lieutenant John Gisclon’s sacrifice in 1995, responding to a call of a suspicious subject, and Trooper James Gross’s loss in 1996, while attempting to apprehend a dangerous criminal, further emphasized the inherent risks of the profession.
DeSanto’s tender recollections offered a glimpse into the lives of these courageous individuals, their final moments etched in the collective memory of the community. He emphasized the profound impact of their sacrifices and the enduring legacy they left behind.
The ceremony also served as a platform to express gratitude to law enforcement officers, both active and retired, for their unwavering dedication and service. DeSanto highlighted the inherent goodness and selflessness exhibited by these unsung heroes, who courageously confront the forces of evil to safeguard their communities.
In a touching moment, DeSanto recounted a heartwarming narrative of Lieutenant John Gisclon’s heroic act of saving a choking infant, exemplifying the compassion and bravery inherent in law enforcement.
As the ceremony drew to a close, DeSanto reiterated the community’s unwavering support for law enforcement and expressed hope that the solemn tribute would provide solace to the families of the fallen officers.
The 2024 Ashland Law Enforcement Memorial Ceremony stood as a heart breaking reminder of the sacrifices made by those who serve on the front lines of justice. As the community came together to honor their fallen heroes, it reaffirmed its commitment to honoring their memory and supporting those who continue to protect and serve with unwavering dedication and valor.
The ceremony concluded with a heartfelt rendition of “Amazing Grace” played on the bagpipes by US Marshal Chief Deputy Brian Fitzgibbon, an 18-gun salute by a Multi-Agency Volley Squad, and the haunting notes of taps by Jim Benshoff, offering a solemn farewell to the fallen, followed by a Benediction prayer by Pastor Austin Rissler.
For Sheriff Risner, this marked his final Memorial Service as the Sheriff of Ashland, capping a distinguished career marked by both triumphs and challenges. Yet, within the myriad experiences, the Memorial Service remained a touching highlight, a testament to the enduring spirit of honor and remembrance that defines law enforcement.
As the ceremony drew to a close, the profound sense of gratitude and respect lingered, serving as a reminder of the debt owed to those who gave their lives to protect and serve. And while the shadows of loss may never fully recede, the light of their sacrifice continues to illuminate the path forward, inspiring all to strive for a safer, more just society.
Kurt Schneider, echoing the sentiments of Sheriff Risner, stressed the significance of National Police Week as a time to honor the dedication and bravery of law enforcement officers nationwide. He emphasized the solemnity of the occasion, recognizing the sacrifices made by officers and their families in service to their communities. Schneider reaffirmed the Ashland County Sheriff’s Office’s steadfast commitment to upholding the tradition of honoring fallen colleagues and providing unwavering support to grieving families during this week of remembrance.
God’s blessings were invoked upon the fallen officers and their families, ensuring that their legacy lives on in the hearts and minds of all who cherish the values of duty, honor, and service.
Joe Lyons •
May 22, 2024
The Northern Ohio Violent Fugitive Task Force is offering a reward for information which would lead to the capture of fugitive Drake Maynard. Maynard is wanted by the U.S. Marshals Service and the Richland County Sheriff’s Office for strangulation. Maynard, 24, is described as a white male with brown hair and brown eyes, standing 5 feet 10 inches tall. Maynard has ties to the city of Mansfield.
The Northern Ohio Violent Fugitive Task Force is offering a reward for information which would lead to the capture of fugitive David Greene. Greene is wanted by the U.S. Marshals Service and the Richland County Sheriff’s Office on a fail to verify address as a sex offender. Greene, 38, is described as a white male with brown hair and hazel eyes, standing 6 feet 0 inches tall. Greene has ties to the city of Mansfield and Galion.
The Northern Ohio Violent Fugitive Task Force is offering a reward for information which would lead to the capture of fugitive Nestor Salazar. Salazar is wanted U.S. Marshals Service and the Richland County Sheriff’s Office for illegal conveyance of drugs. Salazar, 34, is described as a Hispanic male with black hair and brown eyes, standing 5 feet 9 inches tall. Salazar has ties to the cities of Willard and Columbus.
The Northern Ohio Violent Fugitive Task Force is offering a reward for information which would lead to the capture of fugitive Jose Flores. Flores is wanted by the U.S. Marshals Service and the Richland County Sheriff’s Office for Rape. Flores, 45, is described as a Hispanic male with brown hair and brown eyes, standing 5 feet, 11 inches tall. Flores has ties to the cities of Mansfield, Bakersfield CA, and Fernley, NV.
