Are you ready to step back in time and honor the brave men and women who served during the Vietnam War? If so, mark your calendars for the Vietnam Era Veterans Reunion and Dinner, taking place on Saturday, March 30, 2024, from 5:00 PM to 9:00 PM at the Ashland Eagles located at 400 Eastlake Drive in Ashland. This special event is set to welcome guest speaker Patrick McLaughlin, a Vietnam Veteran from the 1st Infantry Division who served in 1966-1967.
Guest Speaker: Patrick McLaughlin
Patrick McLaughlin, the author of “Cheerful Obedience,” will be sharing his experiences and insights during the Vietnam Era Veterans Reunion and Dinner. As a Vietnam Veteran who bravely served his country, McLaughlin’s perspective is not only informative but also deeply moving. His book, “Cheerful Obedience,” chronicles his time in Vietnam and offers a glimpse into the challenges and triumphs faced by those who served during this tumultuous era.
Cheerful Obedience by Patrick McLaughlin
“Cheerful Obedience” by Patrick McLaughlin is a gripping account of his time serving in Vietnam. Navigating the stormy seas of the 1960s was no easy feat, especially with the looming presence of the Vietnam War. Against all odds, Conor Patrick McKall volunteered for the draft, ultimately finding himself immersed in the chaos and uncertainty of war.
Experience the Unforgettable
McKall’s journey takes readers on a emotional and unforgettable ride through jungles, rice paddies, and rubber plantations. As he assumes the role of an infantry squad leader, responsibility weighs heavy on his shoulders. The camaraderie forged in the face of danger, particularly with fellow soldier Jack “Red” Sheridan, highlights the bonds that were formed and the sacrifices made during this turbulent time.
A Glimpse into History
From encounters with black panthers to the challenges of navigating the complexities of war, McKall’s experiences offer a raw and unfiltered look at life during the Vietnam War. The heart-wrenching moments and the resilience displayed by those who served paint a vivid picture of a time marked by both tragedy and triumph.
Tickets and Reservations
Don’t miss your chance to be a part of this unforgettable evening. Tickets for the Vietnam Era Veterans Reunion and Dinner are available for $10. With limited seating available, it’s essential to call early to secure your spot. For reservations and more information, please contact 419-289-1454.
The Vietnam Era Veterans Reunion and Dinner is a unique opportunity to pay tribute to the brave men and women who served during the Vietnam War. With guest speaker Patrick McLaughlin and his book “Cheerful Obedience” taking center stage, attendees are in for a night filled with stories of courage, sacrifice, and camaraderie. Don’t miss this chance to honor our veterans and gain a deeper appreciation for the sacrifices they made. Join us on March 30, 2024, for an unforgettable evening of remembrance and celebration.
Ashland County Sheriff’s Office Sheriff E. Wayne Risner has just Issues a Level 1 Snow Emergency for Ashland County
LEVEL 1: Roadways are hazardous with blowing and drifting snow. Roads may also be icy. Motorists are urged to drive very cautiously.
LEVEL 2: Roadways are hazardous with blowing and drifting snow. Only those who feel it is necessary to drive should be out on the roadways
Level 3: Snow Emergency, all roadways are closed to non-emergency personnel. ODOT says no one should drive during these condition unless absolutely necessary or in the case of a personal emergency. Individuals should call their employers to see if they should report to work
The Board of Directors of Samaritan Hospital Foundation is pleased to again offer scholastic awards to persons residing in Ashland County or UH Samaritan Medical Center employees or immediate family members. To be eligible, applicants must be currently enrolled or accepted in an accredited program in the areas of nursing, medicine or allied medical studies.
Completed applications must be returned with appropriate grade transcripts by April 19, 2024, to the Samaritan Hospital Foundation, Attn: Mona Campbell, at 663 East Main Street in Ashland, Ohio.
Scholastic Award applications for the 2024-25 academic year are available at www.samaritanhospitalfoundation.org and at University Hospitals Samaritan Medical Center, 1025 Center Street, Ashland, Ohio, at the main lobby reception desk.
Applications are also available at Samaritan Hospital Foundation at 663 E. Main Street, Ashland, Ohio, or by contacting the Foundation office at 419-207-7900. Recipients will be notified in late May.
This evening, Ashland Police Division Officers were called to the 800 block of West Main for a civil standby that started to escalate when a man became upset.
As the situation seemed to be winding down and an officer was leaving, the man opened the door with a knife, though it remained in its sheath, escalating the situation.
The officer called for backup as a precaution, wanting to ensure safety for everyone involved.
The Police were able to defuse the situation without incident.
Some residents of the apartment were asked to wait until it was safe to return, focusing on public safety.
Lieutenant Kline emphasized the importance of using tactics to keep both officers and the public safe in such situations.”
In a Sub-rosa Indictment, 33-year-old Jordan Bicker of Ashland was charged with 11 counts of illegal use of a minor in nudity-oriented material or performance, classified as 5th-degree felonies, and 5 counts of pandering sexually oriented matter involving a minor, categorized as 4th-degree felonies.
During his bond hearing on February 13, 2024, presided over by Magistrate Paul Lange and attended by Assistant Prosecuting Attorney Michael Callow from the Ashland County Prosecutor’s Office, a bond of $15,000.00 was set. Options for bond included a surety bond, real estate or securities as collateral, or a cash deposit. The arraignment was scheduled for Thursday, February 15, 2024, at 9:00 a.m., to be conducted via Zoom Meeting video.
Jordan Bicker
Jordan Bicker is being represented by Attorney Daniel Sabol.
According to court documents, Lieutenant Detective Jason Martin of the Ashland County Sheriff’s Office questioned Jordan Bicker about his phone usage, during which Bicker admitted to viewing pornography but denied knowingly accessing child pornography. However, a text message found on his phone indicated otherwise. Upon further investigation, several hundred images of child pornography were discovered on Bicker’s phone, depicting young juvenile females engaged in sexual activities.
In the case of STATE OF OHIO vs. JORDAN BICKER (Case number 24-CRI-069), the charges are detailed as follows:
Eleven counts, 5th Degree Felony of ILLEGAL USE OF MINOR OR IMPAIRED PERSON IN NUDITY-ORIENTED MATERIAL OR PERFORMANCE (Section 2907.323(A)(3), 2907.323(B) of the Ohio Revised Code), a felony of the fifth degree.
In that on or about July 26, 2023, in Ashland County, Ohio, Jordan Bicker, did possess or view material or performance that shows a minor who was not Jordan Bicker’s child or ward in a state of nudity, in violation of Ohio Revised Code
Five counts, 4th Degree Felony PANDERING SEXUALLY-ORIENTED MATTER INVOLVING A MINOR OR IMPAIRED PERSON (Section 2907.322(A)(5), 2907.322(C) of the Ohio Revised Code), a felony of the fourth degree.
In that on or about July 26, 2023, in Ashland County, Ohio, Jordan Bicker, did, with knowledge of the character of the material or performance involved, knowingly solicit, receive, purchase, exchange, possess, or control material that shows a minor participating or engaging in sexual activity, masturbation, or bestiality, in violation of Ohio Revised Code
MANSFIELD, Ohio – The Richland County Board of Commissioners released the State of the County Video during regular session on Tuesday morning. This video highlights the 2023 year in review and includes presentations from County Commissioners Darrell Banks, Tony Vero, and Cliff Mears, as well as County Administrator Andrew Keller and Sheriff Steve Sheldon.
The video is the second installment in a series of three Richland County branding videos and shines a spotlight on many of the County’s notable projects, community investments, and the County’s financial position. The Commissioners plan to release a State of the County Video on an annual basis as a part of the Board’s emphasis on transparency and local government accountability.
On February 11, 2024, at approximately 8:47 PM, Ontario Police were called to 1019 Landings Court in Ontario regarding a violation of a protection order. The caller indicated that the subject was also armed.
Upon arrival officers were confronted by 32-year-old Jareth Vance of Perrysville as he held a female hostage at gunpoint. Officers tried to rescue the hostage and Vance fired at them, striking one of the officers.
After the shooting occurred a hostage escaped Vance’s control and he shot her as well. Her condition was not known at the time of this news release. Vance then barricaded himself inside the residence where he held a 16-year-old hostage.
The Richland County ASORT team along with Hostage Negotiators were called along with Mansfield Police, Shelby Police, The Richland County Sheriff’s Office and the Ohio State Highway Patrol assisted on scene.
After a four-hour standoff Vance surrendered to law enforcement with no further injuries. The 16-year-old hostage was then rescued unharmed.
The 6-year veteran officer is currently hospitalized and in stable condition. The Ontario Police Department would like to thank everyone for the tremendous outpouring of support for our officer and the female victim. It is greatly appreciated.
Ashland Police Division and Ashland EMS responded a dog attack on Pleasant Street, a woman was viciously attacked by a pit bull. The woman suffered serious injuries to her head/arm and transported to the trauma center at Ohio Health in Mansfield.
Lieutenant Bloodhart of the Ashland Police Division stated that Officers and EMS personnel arrived at the scene at approximately 11 am. They found a 53-year-old woman who had been bitten by a dog. The victim, who was on her own property at the time of the attack, suffered injuries that required urgent medical attention. As a result, she was transported to Mansfield for treatment.
Following the attack, the Ashland County dog warden was contacted and arrived at the scene shortly after. The warden, Joe Eggerton, took custody of the pit bull and placed it in quarantine for testing purposes. It is essential to determine if the dog was carrying rabies since it lacked proper vaccination records and was unlicensed. The severity of the injuries inflicted on the woman led to the pit bull deemed a vicious dog.
As of now, charges have not yet been filed in relation to the attack on Pleasant Street. The investigation is ongoing, with both the Ashland Police Division and the Ashland County dog warden working together.
According to Google, pit bulls accounted for a staggering 82% of attacking dogs in 2023. These powerful and strong canines were responsible for 92% of the 131 attacks on children, 58% of the 283 attacks on adults, 81% of the 69 human deaths, and 63% of the disfigurements. These statistics shed light on the concerning prevalence of pit bull aggression and the potential dangers they pose.
The recent pit bull attack on a woman highlights the importance of responsible pet ownership. It serves as a reminder that even well-loved and cared-for dogs can exhibit aggression under certain circumstances.
Some believe pit bulls have been unfairly stigmatized due to isolated incidents of violence, it is crucial to remember that all dogs have the potential for aggression. Adequate training, socialization, and responsible ownership can help prevent such unfortunate incidents and ensure a safe environment for both humans and animals.
In a significant ruling, Honorable Judge John L. Good of the Ashland Municipal Court has denied to dismiss previous cases against Amish residents in Ashland County who challenged the constitutionality of the Ohio Buggy light law. All four Defendants who were unrepresented by Counsel argued that the law, which requires all horse-drawn vehicles to have a flashing yellow light visible from a distance, violates their fundamental right to freedom of religion.
Honorable Judge John L. Good
The Background of the Case:
The defendants, Emery Troyer, Dan Troyer, Andrew Slabaugh, and Jacob Gingerich, are members of the Old Order Amish sects within Ashland County. They share the same religious beliefs and have been charged with violations of the Ohio Buggy light law. These individuals raised objections to the law, claiming that it infringes upon their right to freely exercise their religion under the First and Fourteenth Amendments of the U.S. Constitution and under Article 1, Section 7 of the Ohio Constitution.
The Defendants’ Testimony:
During the evidentiary hearing, all four defendants testified about their religious objections to the statute. They explained that their objections were based on sincere religious beliefs rather than mere cultural practices. According to their testimonies, they believe that their faith requires them to honor the traditions and practices of their ancestors, which include the use of dark clothing and unlit buggies. Bright colors and flashing lights go against their religious beliefs. The defendants also highlighted the potential consequences of complying with the law, such as being shunned by their community.
The state presented testimony
The State, represented by Rep. Scott Wigham, presented extensive testimony regarding the legislative process that led to the enactment of Senate Bill 30, now known as Section 4513.114. Rep. Wigham, who was a primary sponsor of the bill, described the years-long collaboration between the General Assembly, various Amish groups, and public safety officials. The goal was to address the alarming number of car on buggy crashes while minimizing the impact on Amish religious practices.
The Problem of Car on Buggy Crashes
Contrary to popular belief, the majority of car on buggy crashes occur during the day and on straight sections of road. Most often, these accidents happen on State Routes where motorists are traveling at high speeds. The primary cause of these crashes is the significant speed differential between motor vehicles and horse-drawn buggies. Motorists have only a few seconds to recognize a buggy ahead and slow down. With distractions, speeding, impairment, or lack of attention, the window for reaction closes even tighter.
The Rationale Behind the Flashing Yellow Light Requirement
To help motorists identify buggies more quickly, Section 4513.114(B)(1) requires the use of flashing yellow lights on Amish buggies. The State has determined that yellow is a color associated with caution, prompting motorists to instinctively reduce their speed. Unlike reflective tape, slow-moving vehicle signs, reflectors, and lanterns, which are only effective at night, flashing yellow lights are visible during daylight conditions when most car on buggy crashes occur.
The Impact of the Yellow Light Requirement
The effectiveness of the flashing yellow light requirement is evident in the reduction of car on buggy crashes. Lt. Bishop of the Ashland OSP post testified that between August 31, 2022 (when the legislation came into effect) and the date of the Court’s hearing, there was a 22% decline in car-buggy crashes in Ohio compared to previous years. This significant reduction is attributed to the enactment of Section 4513.114(B)(1).
Religious Objections and Constitutional Protections
The defendants in the case, who are members of the Amish community, raised sincere religious objections to the flashing yellow light requirement. The Court recognized the legitimacy of these objections, as they were rooted in deeply held religious beliefs. Furthermore, the Court acknowledged that the privilege to travel on public roads, impacted by the requirement, is an important one for the defendants. The ability to travel is necessary for the Amish to practice their religious ceremonies and meetings.
Balancing Religious Liberty and Public Safety
While religious liberty is a fundamental right protected by both the United States and Ohio Constitutions, it is not absolute. The Court applied the three-part test established by the United States Supreme Court to determine the constitutionality of Section 4513.114(B)(1). It found that the burden imposed on the defendants’ right to freely exercise their religious beliefs was justified by a compelling state interest: reducing the number of car on buggy accidents in Ohio. The flashing yellow light requirement was deemed the least restrictive method to achieve this compelling interest.
Conclusion
Judge John L. Good’s ruling in this landmark case sets an important precedent for the balance between religious freedom and public safety. By carefully considering the sincere religious beliefs of the defendants and the compelling state interest to reduce car on buggy crashes, the Court struck a delicate balance. Section 4513.114(B)(1) and its requirement of flashing yellow lights on Amish buggies have proven to be an effective means of promoting public safety while respecting the religious practices of the Amish community.
Joe Lyons •
February 17, 2024
Are you ready to step back in time and honor the brave men and women who served during the Vietnam War? If so, mark your calendars for the Vietnam Era Veterans Reunion and Dinner, taking place on Saturday, March 30, 2024, from 5:00 PM to 9:00 PM at the Ashland Eagles located at 400 Eastlake Drive in Ashland. This special event is set to welcome guest speaker Patrick McLaughlin, a Vietnam Veteran from the 1st Infantry Division who served in 1966-1967.
The Board of Directors of Samaritan Hospital Foundation is pleased to again offer scholastic awards to persons residing in Ashland County or UH Samaritan Medical Center employees or immediate family members. To be eligible, applicants must be currently enrolled or accepted in an accredited program in the areas of nursing, medicine or allied medical studies.
In a Sub-rosa Indictment, 33-year-old Jordan Bicker of Ashland was charged with 11 counts of illegal use of a minor in nudity-oriented material or performance, classified as 5th-degree felonies, and 5 counts of pandering sexually oriented matter involving a minor, categorized as 4th-degree felonies.
In a significant ruling, Honorable Judge John L. Good of the Ashland Municipal Court has denied to dismiss previous cases against Amish residents in Ashland County who challenged the constitutionality of the Ohio Buggy light law. All four Defendants who were unrepresented by Counsel argued that the law, which requires all horse-drawn vehicles to have a flashing yellow light visible from a distance, violates their fundamental right to freedom of religion. 
