Mansfield, OH – June 22, 2024 — A serious collision involving two semi-trucks resulted in a road closure on Interstate 71 Southbound at the 168-mile marker on Saturday morning. The accident, which occurred at 10:34 AM, multiple emergency services, including the Mansfield Post of the Highway Patrol Troopers, Richland County Sheriff’s Office Deputies, Washington Township Fire Department & EMS, Mansfield Fire Department, Aber’s Towing & Crane Center, Ronk’s Auto & Truck Towing Inc.
According to the Mansfield Post of the Highway Patrol, Said Gelle, 39, of Grove City, Ohio, was driving a 2007 Freightliner southbound on I-71 when he failed to maintain an assured clear distance and struck the rear of a 2015 Freightliner driven by Shafqat Ali, 38, of Columbus, Ohio.
Emergency services arrived, with the initial call reported at 10:34 AM. The report indicates that Said Gelle was trapped in his vehicle and had to be extricated by mechanical means, a process that concluded at 11:48 AM. Gelle sustained serious injuries and was subsequently life-flighted to The Ohio State University Wexner Medical Center in Columbus, Ohio.
All southbound lanes of I-71 were closed to traffic following the accident, causing significant delays. The closure remained in effect until 4:58 PM as authorities worked to clear the scene.
The accident is currently under investigation by the Mansfield Post of the Highway Patrol to determine the exact cause and any potential contributing factors.
Motorists are reminded to maintain safe distances and remain vigilant while driving, especially on busy highways. Updates on the condition of Said Gelle and the progress of the investigation will be provided as more information becomes available.
Ham radio operators from the Ashland Area Amateur Radio Club in Ashland, Ohio will be participating in a national amateur radio exercise from 1PM on Saturday until 3 PM on Sunday, June 22 – 23 at Brookside West Park (back pavilion) The event is ARRL Field Day (www.arrl.org/FieldDay), an annual amateur radio activity organized since 1933 by ARRL, The National Association for Amateur Radio in the United States.
Hams from across North America ordinarily participate in Field Day by establishing temporary ham radio stations in public locations to demonstrate their skill and service. Their use of radio signals, which reach beyond borders, bring people together while providing essential communication in the service of communities. Field Day highlights ham radio’s ability to work reliably under any conditions from almost any location and create an independent, wireless communications network.
Some hams from all across Ohio will also use the radio stations set up in their homes or taken to their backyards and other locations to operate individually or with their families. Many hams have portable radio communication capability that includes alternative energy sources such as generators, solar panels, and batteries to power their equipment.
This year’s event is also noteworthy given that a particularly active hurricane season is predicted. “Hams have a long history of serving our communities when storms or other disasters damage critical communication infrastructure, including cell towers,” said Robert Palm, (call sign KD8FTR). “Ham radio functions completely independently of the internet and phone systems and a station can be set up almost anywhere in minutes. Hams can quickly raise a wire antenna in a tree or on a mast, connect it to a radio and power source, and communicate effectively with others,” Palm added.
During Field Day 2023, more than 26,000 hams participated from thousands of locations across North America. According to ARRL, there are more than 750,000 amateur radio licensees in the US, and an estimated 3 million worldwide.
Among the tenets of the Amateur Radio Service is developing and practicing skills in radio technology and radio communications, and even contributing to international goodwill. Hams range in age from as young as 9 to older than 100.
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.
Jose Flores
The Northern Ohio Violent Fugitive Task Force is offering a reward for information which would lead to the capture of fugitive Jhousha Stewart. Stewart is wanted by the U.S. Marshals Service and the Richland County Sheriff’s Office for possession of fentanyl related compound. Stewart, 33, is described as a white male with brown hair and blue eyes, standing 5 feet, 11 inches tall. Stewart has ties to the cities of Mansfield and Columbus.
Jhousha Stewart
The Northern Ohio Violent Fugitive Task Force is offering a reward for information which would lead to the capture of fugitive Aaron Monk. Monk is wanted by the U.S. Marshals Service and the Adult Parole Authority for a probation violation on the original charge of retaliation of a witness. Monk, 31, is described as a white male with brown hair and brown eyes, standing 6 feet 0 inches tall. Monk has ties to the cities of Cleveland, Clyde, and Sandusky.
Aaron Monk
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 black 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 David Greene, Jhousha Stewart, Aaron Monk, 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.
COLUMBUS –The Ohio House of Representatives passed House Bill 158, joint sponsored by State Reps. Bill Roemer (R-Richfield) and Melanie Miller (R- City of Ashland). The legislation, which received unanimous support, updates Cosmetology and Barber Board statutes.
The House accepted the following changes from the Senate:
Amends Senate Bill 89, the Cosmetology Licensure Compact, into the bill.
Specifies that the minimum passing score for the barber examination specified in rules adopted by the Board under the bill cannot exceed 75%
Permits the Secretary of State to appoint and commission police officers for hospitals operated by public hospital agencies or nonprofit hospital agencies, to for-profit hospitals that, before converting to for-profit status, were operated by nonprofit hospital agencies already employing police officers appointed and commissioned by the Secretary of State.
“The updates included in House Bill 158 will reduce barriers for students getting their barbering and cosmetology licenses,” said Roemer. “These changes will lead to better opportunities for barbers, cosmetologists, customers and businesses.”
The Cosmetology and Barber Board was consolidated from two separate boards in 2017, but the law was not adequately adjusted to account for this merger.
“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.”
Key provisions of the bill 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.
The legislation does not change the current training hour requirements for initial licensure.
House Bill 158 awaits Governor DeWine’s signature.
They’re nearly all gone now, the generation we call “THE GREATEST.” I always admired and was thankful for the men and women who served to protect our country. Both my parents were in the military during WW11: Dad in the Navy and Mom in the Marines. I wish there would have been an Honor Bus during their lifetime to take my parents to Washington D.C., so they could have had time with other veterans, comparing stories and rejoicing in our country.
Speaking of the Honor Bus, I always attend the “sendoff” since my husband is a volunteer entertainer for the participants. As the driver was loading up the veterans, one chilly morning in November, I noticed an older gentleman standing off to the side while letting everyone for his story.
Sam grew up on a farm during the depression with seven brothers and sisters and his widowed mom. He said he didn’t do much for the war, not like his three brothers did who were all tail gunners. He told me that when they arrived in D.C. the group would visit all the memorials and watch the changing of the guard. They would see the WW11 memorial and talk about the service men who had fought and died together. Sam finally boarded the bus, and they departed at 6:30 a.m. on Friday, and arrived back home Sunday at 9:30 p.m.
Back in Ashland, a large group of friends waved flags and welcomed home the veterans. Sam was the last off the bus, so I asked my new friend, “How are you doing after all that walking?”
He replied, “I’m a little tired. Nothing a couple extra naps can’t cure.”
Then I asked, “please consider telling your stories to all ages of school kids, especially on Veteran’s Day. Talk about your service. It’s important for folks to remember that our freedom was and is not free!”
Thank you for your service.
Thank you for the Honor Bus.
Thank you to the Greatest Generation.
Thank you Service Dog United.
Thank you for Veteran’s Day at the Ashland County Airport on August 10, 2024 beginning at 11:00 a.m.
Blessings,
Dianne Hammontree, secretary of Homeward Bound, Inc.
COLUMBUS- The Ohio House of Representatives today unanimously passed House Bill 236, the Never Alone Act, announced bill sponsors, State Reps. Melanie Miller (R-City of Ashland) and Beth Lear (R-Galena). The bill ensures every patient has access to an advocate to be with them in a hospital, nursing home, or other congregate care setting – especially during a health emergency.
“Over the last three years, we have gained heightened awareness of the need to protect the rights of a patient to have access to a loved one or advocate to act on behalf of their best interest while in a hospital or care facility,” said Miller. “The Never Alone Act ensures that everyone has someone who can speak for them, when they do not have a voice.”
Specifically, the Never Alone Act:
Requires a congregate care setting to inform a patient or resident that the patient or resident may designate an individual to serve as an advocate and to provide the patient or resident the opportunity to make a designation.
Prohibits a congregate care setting from 1: denying a patient or resident access to an advocate and 2: prohibiting an advocate from being physically present with a patient or resident.
Prohibits a political subdivision, public official, or state agency from issuing an order or rule, or enforcing on behalf of the federal government a federal order or rule, that would require a care setting to violate the bill’s provisions.
Requires the Department of Health to create a Never Alone information sheet and each congregate care setting to provide each patient or resident with a copy at the time of admission.
“The Never Alone Act is a patient and resident-centered bill. Our goal was to protect Ohioans when they are most vulnerable and ensure they have access to a loved one to hold their hand or provide comfort,” said Lear. “The isolation that caused our citizens to suffer and die alone during COVID should never be allowed to happen again.”
The Never Alone Act now moves to the Ohio Senate for further consideration.
Ashland, OH – In a recent interview, Mayor Matt Miller revealed exciting new developments for Brookside Park, including the introduction of safari-themed animals and upcoming community events.
Safari Animals at Putt-Putt Golf Course
During the interview, held at a unique location to showcase the new safari animals, Mayor Miller shared the story behind the large elephant behind him. “This elephant, along with a tiger, a gorilla, and a seal, will soon be placed around Brookside Park,” said Mayor Miller. “We had a generous donor who provided financial resources to purchase these animals at a public auction. Local artists have restored and painted them, and they will be installed at the mini golf course and the Brookside Swimming Pool in the next two weeks.”
Big Splash Pool Party
Mayor Miller also discussed the upcoming Big Splash Pool Party on July 26th at Brookside Park Pool. “This is the best pool party in Ashland County every year,” he said. “Admission will be free for ages 2 to 17, with discounted rates for others. There will be free Chick-fil-A lunches, Kona Ice, cotton candy, and various giveaways. Last year, over 700 people attended, and we’re looking forward to another successful event.”
Downtown Dream Cruise Car Show
The annual Downtown Dream Cruise Car Show on Main Street is set for tomorrow. “We’re expecting between 600 and 800 cars,” said Mayor Miller. “The show has grown significantly, extending down all side streets. We’re hoping for great weather and a fantastic turnout.”
New Business at 16 E Main Street
Mayor Miller announced that Rochelle Shambaugh and her family would occupy 16 E Main Street. “The city invested in restoring this historic building, and it will now house Rochelle’s business, Cartolina on Main. This move will provide a beautiful new retail space and production area for her stationary and photo products.”
Street Paving Program
The mayor provided an update on the street paving program, stating that work has not yet begun but will start soon. “We plan to pave approximately 12 streets, with major projects on Sandusky Street and the US 42 bypass,” he said.
Pump House Development
Regarding the Pump House development, Mayor Miller explained that behind-the-scenes work is ongoing. “We are working with Vision Development to finalize financing and other details. The transfer of ownership for the hotel and Pump House building is imminent, and we hope to see construction soon.”
Golf Cart Ordinance
Addressing the legality of golf carts on city streets, Mayor Miller stated, “Currently, it is illegal to drive golf carts on our streets, but I believe they are a reasonable method of transportation for certain events. We can start a conversation at City Hall about creating an ordinance to allow golf carts.”
Property Maintenance and Panhandling Ordinances
Mayor Miller mentioned that the City Council would be working on a property maintenance code and a panhandling ordinance during their August recess. “We need to address issues with property upkeep and manage panhandling to maintain the city’s appearance and safety,” he said.
Fireworks Display Success
The new location for the city fireworks received positive feedback. “The event at For Your Field went smoothly, and we plan to improve traffic flow and parking next year,” said Mayor Miller. “We hope to add food trailers and live entertainment to make it an even better experience.”
Mayor Miller’s updates highlight the ongoing efforts to enhance community amenities and events in Ashland, promising a vibrant and engaging summer for residents and visitors alike.
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.
ODNR officials break ground for the new visitor center at Mohican State Park.
LOUDONVILLE, Ohio — The Ohio Department of Natural Resources (ODNR) today broke ground and will begin construction for a new visitor center at Mohican State Park. “We are thrilled to begin work on the new visitor center at Mohican State Park,” said ODNR Director Mary Mertz. “This facility is designed to blend seamlessly with the park’s natural beauty while providing modern amenities and educational opportunities for our visitors. It will enhance the overall experience for everyone who comes to explore and enjoy one of Ohio’s most cherished parks.”
Strategically located near the park’s main entrance, the new visitor center will be a prominent feature visible from the roadway. Nestled next to the State Scenic Clear Fork of the Mohican River within the floodplain, the site offers a unique blend of natural beauty and accessibility. The building’s design includes an extended, low-slope ramp leading to the entrance, flanked by educational rain gardens and gathering spaces, providing visitors with interactive and educational opportunities.
There will be a grand and inviting entrance to the visitor center with landscaping that will address any flooding issues. The space will also feature exterior porches and a fireplace, encouraging visitors to gather and enjoy the outdoors even more.
The heart of the visitor center will be a central exhibit space, with two wings extending from it. One wing will house restrooms and a merchandise area, while the other will contain staff support, storage, and mechanical spaces. The building will offer entry points at both ends accessible from the parking lot and the campground. The main entrance vestibule will be designed to lock off from the rest of the facility, allowing off-hours access to restrooms and drinking fountains.
Inspired by traditional forest lodges, the new visitor center will feature olive green exterior siding atop a stone base, reflecting the stone outcroppings found throughout the park. A steeply sloped roof with dormers will create a spacious, well-lit interior, accentuated by heavy timber trusses. Shaded porches and stone chimneys will add to the building’s inviting, homey ambiance.
As one of Ohio’s most frequented parks, Mohican State Park is a place where nature’s history meets adventure. Once the hunting grounds of the Delaware nation, it is now a sanctuary for outdoor enthusiasts. Visitors can hike, bike, ride horseback, or paddle through various landscapes. Naturalist programs offer insights into the diverse plant and animal life native to the area. Guests can stay in the lodge, cozy cabins, or camp under the stars. Whether seeking tranquility or thrills, Mohican State Park invites exploration and relaxation.
“The Mohican area has an amazing story to tell, and we are proud to share that story with Ohioans of all ages in the new visitor center,” said Park Manager Jenny Roar. “This exciting project will inspire future generations and provide a place for visitors to learn about the history, conservation practices, and recreational opportunities of this beautiful region. We hold a valuable piece of Ohio’s history here at Mohican, and it is important to us to showcase this remarkable area in our new facility.”
The new visitor center is expected to be completed in the fall of 2025.
The ODNR Division of Parks and Watercraft provides exceptional outdoor recreation and boating opportunities by balancing outstanding customer service, education, and conservation of Ohio’s 76 state parks and waterways.
In 2024, join ODNR as we celebrate 75 years of protecting Ohio’s natural resources and providing outstanding and award-winning recreational opportunities.
ODNR ensures a balance between wise use and protection of our natural resources for the benefit of all. Visit the ODNR website at ohiodnr.gov.
Joe Lyons •
June 24, 2024
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 Jhousha Stewart. Stewart is wanted by the U.S. Marshals Service and the Richland County Sheriff’s Office for possession of fentanyl related compound. Stewart, 33, is described as a white male with brown hair and blue eyes, standing 5 feet, 11 inches tall. Stewart has ties to the cities of Mansfield and Columbus.
The Northern Ohio Violent Fugitive Task Force is offering a reward for information which would lead to the capture of fugitive Aaron Monk. Monk is wanted by the U.S. Marshals Service and the Adult Parole Authority for a probation violation on the original charge of retaliation of a witness. Monk, 31, is described as a white male with brown hair and brown eyes, standing 6 feet 0 inches tall. Monk has ties to the cities of Cleveland, Clyde, and Sandusky.
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 black hair and brown eyes, standing 5 feet, 11 inches tall. Flores has ties to the cities of Mansfield, Bakersfield CA, and Fernley NV.
DIANNE’S DOGHOUSE
