Community Unites to Cheer on Redbird’s Journey to Victory
In a display of unparalleled support and solidarity, the Loudonville community came together today to bid a heartfelt farewell to their beloved Girls Basketball Team as they embark on their journey to the championship game. From family and friends to local law enforcement and fire departments, the outpouring of support was nothing short of remarkable.
The Loudonville High School Spirit Bus was met with waves of enthusiasm and cheers as it made its way through the town’s streets, escorted by emergency vehicles and flanked by students from both Loudonville and Perrysville schools. The route, meticulously planned to showcase the team’s pride and spirit, wound through the heart of the community, with residents lining the streets to show their unwavering support.
Departing from Loudonville High School, the Spirit Bus embarked on its journey, turning onto State Route 39 before making its way through downtown Loudonville and Perrysville. The sight of emergency vehicles flashing their lights and blaring their sirens, accompanied by the roaring cheers of supporters, served as a testament to the unity and pride of the Loudonville community.
As the team prepares to face off in the championship game at the University of Dayton Arena, the entire community stands behind them, rallying for victory. With the game set to commence at 11 a.m. on Thursday, anticipation and excitement are running high as Loudonville gears up to witness their team in action.
To the Redbirds, the entire community sends their best wishes and utmost support. As they step onto the court, they carry with them not only the hopes of their supporters but also the spirit of unity and determination that defines the Loudonville community.
Win or lose, the journey of the Loudonville Girls Basketball Team serves as a shining example of teamwork, resilience, and community spirit. Their presence in the championship game is a testament to their hard work and dedication, and no matter the outcome, they have already made their community proud.
So, to the Redbirds, may you soar high and bring home the victory. Loudonville stands with you every step of the way. Go Redbirds!
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.
Ashland University Homeschool Classical Learning Center Homeschool Conference
March 15, 2024 4-8 p.m. Convocation Center
$15 per person or $25 per couple buffet dinner will be served.
Keynote Speaker: Israel Wayne
Join us if you’re a parent actively homeschooling your children or would like to in the future. You’ll gain insights from Israel Wayne, a prominent figure in the homeschooling community, connect with fellow homeschool parents and receive practical advice for implementing effective strategies with your children.
Wayne, a homeschool graduate and father of 11, is a fervent advocate for defending the Christian faith and cultivating a Biblical worldview. He plays a pivotal role in promoting values integral to homeschooling and family life.
In a joint effort to address the critical issue of school safety, the U.S. Secret Service National Threat Assessment Center (NTAC) is partnering with the Ashland County-West Holmes Career Center to present a comprehensive event titled “Enhancing School Safety Using a Threat Assessment Model.” This free event, aimed at law enforcement, school personnel, and public safety professionals, will provide insights and strategies for preventing targeted school violence.
Scheduled for April 16, 2024, from 9:00 AM to 1:00 PM at the Ashland Theatre in Ashland, Ohio, the event will feature presentations from NTAC experts, focusing on key findings from research on targeted school violence and interrupted school plots in the United States. Attendees will gain valuable knowledge on establishing multidisciplinary threat assessment teams and identifying, assessing, and intervening with students exhibiting concerning or threatening behaviors.
“We are proud to collaborate with the U.S. Secret Service National Threat Assessment Center to address the pressing issue of school safety,” said TJ Houston, Cyber Security Instructor. “This event underscores our commitment to fostering a safe and secure learning environment for students and educators alike.”
The agenda includes informative sessions such as:
Overview of NTAC’s history and mission.
NTAC’s research findings and key implications from studies on targeted school violence.
A behavior-based approach to preventing targeted violence, including steps for developing a behavioral threat assessment program and research-based behavioral themes.
NTAC case study on an averted plot.
Opportunity for questions and answers.
Registration for the event is required by April 8, 2024. Interested participants can register online at https://www.ticketleap.events/tickets/acwhcc/acwhcc-threat-assessment2024.
For inquiries or more information, please contact TJ Houston at houstont@acwhcc.org.
The event promises to be an invaluable opportunity for education administrators, teachers, school resource officers, mental health specialists, law enforcement, and other professionals involved in risk detection and management to enhance their understanding of threat assessment and bolster school safety measures.
This year, the citizens of Ashland County will have the opportunity to elect a new Sheriff. Kurt Schneider is running for this office and has my support.
I served at this office for 30 years and the last eight years as Sheriff. I know the duties and responsibilities of the Sheriff. He or she is a peace officer and is charged with protection of the citizens in the jurisdiction, an officer of the court, does criminal investigation, assists other law enforcement agencies if requested and runs the jail.
Kurt Schneider has experience as a firefighter and investigation of fires. This also led him to give expert testimony of his investigation. He has assisted police departments and other Sheriff’s offices.
Kurt also worked for the Ashland County Sheriff’s Office for 13 years. He supports the constitution and has the integrity for this office. If you examine his background and training, Kurt is the best person for the next Sheriff of Ashland County. Vote for Kurt Schneider.
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
The Northern Ohio Violent Fugitive Task Force is offering a reward for information which would lead to the capture of fugitive Steven Drummond. Drummond is wanted by the U.S. Marshals Service and the Richland County Sheriff’s Office for failure to register as a sex offender. Drummond, 27, is described as a white male with blond hair and blue eyes, standing 5 feet 9 inches tall. Drummond has ties to the cities of Shelby Ohio and Gibsonton Florida.
Steven Drummond
The Northern Ohio Violent Fugitive Task Force is offering a reward for information which would lead to the capture of fugitive James Saurers. Saurers is wanted by the U.S. Marshals Service and the Adult Parole Authority on a parole violation on the original charge of robbery. Saurers, 53, is described as a white male with brown hair and brown eyes, standing 5 feet 7 inches tall. Saurers has ties to the cities of Crestline and Mansfield.
James Saurers
The Northern Ohio Violent Fugitive Task Force is offering a reward for information which would lead to the capture of fugitive Telly Gray. Gray is wanted U.S. Marshals Service and the Adult Parole Authority on a parole violation on the original charge of escape. Gray, 49, is described as a black male with bald head and brown eyes, standing 5 feet, 8 inches tall. Gray has ties to the city of Mansfield.
Telly Gray
If you have any information in reference to Jose Flores, Steven Drummond, James Saurers, or Telly Gray, 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.
This past weekend, the Humane Society of Ashland County orchestrated another heartwarming Adopt-a-Pet Event at the Centerra CO-OP Country Store, at 1290 Middle Rowsburg Road. Enthusiastic animal lovers flocked to the event, eager to meet and greet a delightful array of furry companions, ranging from playful pups to affectionate felines.
Visitors were treated to the joyous spectacle of wagging tails and purring kitties, each one seeking a loving forever home. The event not only provided an opportunity for potential adopters to connect with these lovable animals but also served as a beacon of hope for pets in need of a second chance.
Families were captivated by the charming personalities and irresistible charms of the animals, forging connections that would undoubtedly lead to lasting bonds. As families interacted with their potential new furry family members, laughter filled the air, echoing the profound joy that comes from the promise of companionship and unconditional love.
For those unable to attend the event but eager to open their hearts and homes to a deserving pet, the Humane Society of Ashland County remains just a phone call away. By reaching out to them at 419-281-4722 or dropping a line at info@ashlandhumane.org, individuals can embark on a journey towards enriching their lives while providing a loving sanctuary for a beloved animal in need.
The Adopt-a-Pet Event at Centerra CO-OP Country Store was not just an occasion; it was a celebration of compassion, community, and the enduring bond between humans and animals. With each adoption, a new chapter begins—a chapter filled with love, laughter, and endless tail wags.
Last year was a landmark year for the Muskingum Watershed Conservancy District (MWCD) as we honored our past by celebrating 90 years of providing unparalleled flood prevention, recreation, and conservation benefits to Ohio.
As 2024 begins, we will build upon the accomplishments from 2023 and work towards our 5-year strategic plan titled, “Honoring our Past, Planning our Future.” I am excited to provide a sample of the achievements of 2023 and initiatives we have planned for the year.
One very significant achievement from 2023 was the reduction of the assessment for property owners within the watershed by 66%, or $4 million. We made this change because we built a stable financial future through careful resource management. Even with this reduction, we invested over $2.3 million in improvements to our network of dams and lakes in 2023. Additionally, these investments are part of the $221 million park improvements and upgrades made since 2014 which have supported 2,606 jobs paying nearly $300 million in wages and benefits. Through these improvements and upgrades, MWCD has contributed an estimated $1 billion to our region’s economy, according to 2023 Cleveland State University study.
Careful thought goes into how MWCD invests in improvements and upgrades to our facilities that support our mission of flood prevention and control, recreation, and conservation. Our system of dams and other flood mitigation assets is well established and carefully managed in close partnership with the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers. We are proud of the continued high marks we receive from the Corps for our work, ranging from our fiscal support of fixing the Zoar levee and other dam improvements, to our own work restoring and protecting shorelines, strategic dredging operations, and invasive species control. Last year alone we spent more than $4.4 million to maintain and improve this system of reservoirs, dams, and levees to ensure that it is in top shape to preserve life and property. This is our first and primary mission and we will continue to give this our full attention and priority.
Additional investments in our lakes and parks help ensure they are desirable places for families to gather and enjoy Ohio’s natural resources. Projects such as Pleasant Hill Lake Park’s new pickleball and basketball courts, cornhole boards, and shaded seating area are perfect examples of such additions. Similarly, at Tappan Lake Park, we have improved the beach experience with a new restroom and changing area and upgraded the concession building and shelter. Atwood and Piedmont Lakes received new basketball courts, as well. We also completed the 1.3-mile Tappan Beall Farm Connector Trail, which enhances off-lake opportunities and showcases our collaborative partnership with regional conservation groups.
We have ambitious plans for 2024. Proposals are being evaluated for new developments at Atwood Lake. Important infrastructure upgrades are coming to Clendening Lake, including a new wastewater treatment plant, pump stations, and rehabilitation efforts. Tappan Lake Park will see a new welcome center to better serve guests. Additional amenities, including ADA kayak launches, concrete cornhole boards, and playgrounds at various parks demonstrates our dedication to recreation for all. Plans for Seneca Lake Park include a splashpad, playground, sport courts, and additional facilities for a more enjoyable beach experience. The investment back into MWCD facilities at Tappan and Seneca alone exceeds $6 million.
In 2024, MWCD is striving for more sustainable energy solutions and making a groundbreaking leap with a $2.3 million investment in renewable energy and is currently evaluating proposals for 15 solar projects that will produce approximately 1.1 million kilowatt hours.
This year will also see an expanded focus on our conservation mission. This work is essential for us to offer healthy and beautiful lakes, parks, and waterways for both wildlife and visitors. A groundbreaking new partnership with the Foundation for Appalachian Ohio has been formed with our $5 million endowment, which aims to support $200,000 worth of conservation projects, scholarships, and fellowships annually. This aligns with an expansion of our water quality monitoring efforts and collaboration with agency partners to develop a regional plan to support healthy wildlife populations. Water quality starts with land use and to maintain our high standards of water quality and reduce impairments in our region, we are increasing our support for best agricultural management practices, sustainable forestry, and wetland conservation. From clean water flows opportunity for recreation, economy, and public health.
As we move forward, MWCD remains dedicated to the core mission of flood prevention and control. Other parts of our program naturally dovetail today to strengthen our recreation and conservation efforts. By working together, our core programs provide protection from flooding and enrich our lives. Eastern Ohio is one of the most beautiful natural areas in the Ohio River Watershed. Preserving this legacy of natural beauty is our shared responsibility and our shared joy. To ensure that MWCD is here for at least another 90 years, we are developing a plan to secure long-term financial stability through the creation of a legacy fund that will live in perpetuity. This fund will benefit future MWCD projects, operations, and potentially lend financial support to other like-minded organizations within the Muskingum Watershed.
MWCD is honored to be part of the communities across the watershed. As was the vision from our founders, we seek to build a conservancy that not only protects millions from devastating floods, but ensures the waters are clean, and we provide unparalleled recreation, educational, and economic development opportunities. This is a responsibility that we fully embrace.
Together, with our communities and partners, we will forge a path toward a sustainable and thriving future for the Muskingum Watershed Conservancy District and the communities we serve. We look forward to a year filled with exciting developments and more shared successes in stewardship of this beautiful place we are lucky enough to call home.
In a heartfelt speech delivered this morning, Sheriff E. Wayne Risner announced his endorsement of Kurt Schneider for the position of Ashland County Sheriff. After nearly 24 years of dedicated service, Sheriff Risner expressed confidence in Schneider’s qualifications and commitment to uphold the legacy of excellence within the Ashland County Sheriff’s Office.
Sheriff Risner, who has served as Ashland County Sheriff for over two decades, reflected on his illustrious career spanning both military and law enforcement roles. With a combined 56 years of service to his name, including 22 years in the United States Army and 34 years with the Ashland County Sheriff’s Office, Sheriff Risner emphasized the agency’s unwavering dedication to maintaining high standards of professionalism and service to the community.
In his address, Sheriff Risner highlighted the multifaceted responsibilities of the Ashland County Sheriff’s Office, encompassing divisions such as corrections, civil process administration, enforcement, and specialized teams including the Drone Team, Dive Team, K9 Team, and Bomb Squad. He underscored the critical role of each division in ensuring public safety, upholding the law, and preserving the peace throughout Ashland County.
Drawing attention to the extensive duties performed by the Sheriff’s Office, Sheriff Risner emphasized the importance of honesty and integrity as foundational principles of law enforcement. He commended the tireless efforts of the agency’s deputies and staff in fulfilling their duties with professionalism and dedication, day in and day out.
In endorsing Kurt Schneider for Ashland County Sheriff, Sheriff Risner cited Schneider’s proven track record and comprehensive understanding of the office’s operations. Having worked his way up from a special deputy to a full-time deputy with experience in both corrections and enforcement, Schneider demonstrated a deep commitment to public service and a thorough knowledge of the inner workings of the Sheriff’s Office.
Sheriff Risner expressed confidence in Schneider’s ability to lead the agency effectively, build upon its existing strengths, and address challenges such as maintaining the integrity of the 911 dispatch system.
In concluding his endorsement speech, Sheriff Risner called upon the community to join him in supporting Kurt Schneider as the next Sheriff of Ashland County, pledging to continue the tradition of excellence and service that has defined the Ashland County Sheriff’s Office under his leadership.
As Ashland County prepares for the upcoming election, Sheriff E. Wayne Risner’s endorsement serves as a testament to Kurt Schneider’s qualifications and commitment to upholding the highest standards of law enforcement and public safety in the community.
This year, the citizens of Ashland County will have the opportunity to elect a new Sheriff. Kurt Schneider is running for this office and has my support.
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.
The Northern Ohio Violent Fugitive Task Force is offering a reward for information which would lead to the capture of fugitive Steven Drummond. Drummond is wanted by the U.S. Marshals Service and the Richland County Sheriff’s Office for failure to register as a sex offender. Drummond, 27, is described as a white male with blond hair and blue eyes, standing 5 feet 9 inches tall. Drummond has ties to the cities of Shelby Ohio and Gibsonton Florida.
Freer House Model Train Show
Joe Lyons •
March 13, 2024
