Ashland University’s 2023-24 Environmental Lecture Series, featuring a theme of “Does green infrastructure improve urban environments?” will kick off on Thursday, Feb. 1, with special guest Jean-Michel Guldmann, professor emeritus and Academy Professor of City and Regional Planning at Ohio State University’s Knowlton School of Architecture. He will present “Tree and Building Shade for Urban Heat Migration: Measuring Shade Temperature Effects and Population Exposure in Columbus, Ohio” at the Ronk Lecture Hall inside AU’s Dwight Schar College of Education, beginning at 7:30 p.m.
The event is free and open to the public. There is also an option to attend via a webinar; participants must register at this link for the webinar.
Guldmann will discuss the climate change and temperature increases that are expected to impact cities more harshly due to the urban heat island effect. Urban heat island refers to metropolitan areas being warmer than the rural areas surrounding them because of the buildings, roads and other infrastructure that absorb and re-emit the sun’s’ heat. A critical urban planning and policy issue is devising natural and design-based solutions to stem the urban heat island, which can be detrimental to public health and energy consumption.
Guldmann’s presentation will include analytical research on shade effects from buildings and trees, using geospatial and statistical techniques applied to sites in the Columbus area. Tree canopy volume has distinct effects on land surface temperature and modeling simulates such impacts of neighborhood tree greening scenarios and identifies population groups that are shade-deprived.
Guldmann was a professor at KSA from 1977-2012 and served as its interim director from 2005-07. He taught courses on optimization, decision analysis, population/economic forecasting and energy and regional modeling at OSU, as well as Capital Normal University in Beijing and Gazi University in Ankara, Turkey. He has supervised to successful completition the dissertations of 31 Ph.D. students and authored a book, “Industrial Location and Air Quality Control: A Planning Approach,” and more than 100 peer-reviewed journal articles.
“For more than 30 years, the AU Environmental Lecture Series, has connected AU students, faculty and members of the North Central Ohio community with leaders and experts in environmental problems and solutions,” said Patty Saunders, who serves as director of the environmental science program and organizes the series with input from other environmental science faculty. “We are always excited to learn more about specific case studies and research stories, and we especially like these opportunities for our students to learn about different careers and career paths.”
Current support for the AU Environmental Lecture Series is provided by donations from individuals and support from Ashland University, while previous series have been supported by AU and grants from the National Science Foundation, the Lubrizol Foundation, the GTE Foundation and the Fran and Warren Rupp Foundation.
Green Township- On Wednesday January 24, 2024 at approximately 6:15 p.m. the Ashland Highway Patrol Post was advised of an injury crash involving a church bus and a passenger car on State Route 39 near Township Road 749.
A 2015 Chevrolet Equinox was operated southbound on State Route 39 by 71-year-old Rickie Bilger of Loudonville, Ohio. A 2011 Thomas Built bus was operated northbound on State Route 39 by 68 -year-old David Switzer of Loudonville, Ohio.
The Chevrolet and Thomas Built bus collided within the middle of both travel lanes. The Thomas Built traveled off of the west edge of State Route 39, struck a ditch line and came to rest. The Equinox was redirected facing northbound and came to rest in the southbound travel lane adjacent to the west edge of State Route 39.
There were four passengers on the bus and one occupant was taken to Wooster Community Hospital by Loudonville Fire Department.
Bilger was taken by Perrysville Fire Department to Ohio Health Mansfield and was pronounced deceased.
Bilger was not wearing a safety belt at the time of the crash.
Drugs and/or alcohol are not suspected as factors in the crash.
The Ohio State Highway Patrol was assisted on scene by the Ashland County Sheriff’s Office, Loudonville Police Department, Perrysville Fire Department, Loudonville Fire Department, and Bate ’s Garage and Towing.
State Route 39 was closed for approximately 2 hours while the crash was investigated and the vehicles recovered from the area.
The crash remains under investigation at this time
Yesterday, Abdikadir Shire came before Ashland Municipal Court Judge John Good and the family of John Keener for the sentencing hearing after pleading guilty on Vehicular Manslaughter in the death of John Keener. It was a somber and emotional day as friends and family gathered to express their grief and anger at the devastating loss of their beloved John Keener. The heartfelt statements from John’s family shed light on the impact he had on their lives and the immense pain caused by his untimely death.
This tragic event unfolded when multiple 911 callers reported a collision between a 2012 Freightliner semi-truck, driven by a 37-year-old resident of Saint Paul, Minnesota named Abdikadir Abshir Shire, and a 2001 Toyota Camry operated by John Thomas Keener, a 40-year-old resident of Ashland, Ohio on the morning of Wednesday, November 1st, 2023, at the intersection of State Route 302 and US 42 in Ashland County, Ohio.
A Precious Bond
In a statement to the court, Katy Keener, John’s sister, recollected cherished memories and the deep bond they shared. She vividly painted a picture of their childhood together, filled with love, sibling squabbles, and moments of joy. She spoke of wanting to relive those memories and hold on to the connection they had. The loss of John has left a void that cannot be filled, and Katy struggles with the pain of knowing she will never be able to talk to him or see him again in this life.
A Family United in Grief
Jenny Uebel, John’s older sister, also spoke of the impact John had on their lives. She shared memories of his birth and the close relationship they had as siblings. She highlighted John’s musical talent, his love for computers, and his journey to become a successful mechanical engineer. The loss of John has left a significant hole in their lives, especially for John’s young son, Colin, and their aging parents.
Unanswered Questions and Lingering Grief
Deborah Keener, John’s sister-in-law, directed her words towards the driver responsible for John’s death. She expressed her deep anguish and asked the driver if he truly understood the magnitude of his actions. As a fellow CDL driver, she emphasized the training and responsibilities that come with the profession. Deborah questioned why the driver failed to stop at the intersection and the impact it had on their life. She conveyed the raw pain and sorrow experienced by the Keener family, and their longing for justice and closure.
The Pain of Loss
The loss of John Keener has created an unfillable void in the lives of his family and friends. Each day brings a reminder of his absence, and the grief they carry is a constant presence. The tragic accident that took John’s life has left them with unanswered questions, aching hearts, and shattered dreams. The pain they feel is unimaginable, and they struggle to find solace in their memories and faith.
Seeking Justice and Healing
The Keener family hopes that through sharing their experiences, they can shine a light on the devastating consequences of reckless actions on the road. They believe that stronger penalties should be imposed on those who commit such acts of negligence, in order to prevent further loss and heartache for other families. Their plea for justice is driven by the love they had for John and the desire to prevent others from experiencing a similar tragedy.
Understanding the Complexity of a Tragic Accident and the Constraints of the Judicial System
Municipal Court Judge John Good delivered a emotional speech while handing down the maximum sentence to a truck driver involved in a fatal accident. The judge’s words reflected his deep understanding of the circumstances surrounding the incident, as well as the limitations imposed by the legal system.
The Judge’s Personal Reflections
Judge Good began his speech by expressing his gratitude for the opportunity to serve as a judge in Ashland County. He acknowledged the privilege, humility, and satisfaction he derives from his role, highlighting that most days, he loves his job. However, he acknowledged that this is not one of those days.
The Limitations of the Court
Judge Good recognized the public’s skepticism in the court’s ability to administer justice in this particular case. He acknowledged the validity of their concerns, especially in light of the tragic loss suffered by the victim’s family. The judge emphasized the need for objectivity and impartiality, as well as the court’s responsibility to control emotions. Despite these constraints, he acknowledged the difficulty in providing a resolution that truly satisfies the principles of justice.
A Heartfelt Acknowledgment
During his speech, Judge Good expressed his deep appreciation for the heartfelt statements made by several individuals closely affected by the accident. Their words touched him, particularly the remarks made by Miss Uebel and Miss Keener. However, the judge acknowledged the inherent limitations in offering solace or healing to the grieving family. He recognized that the pain and loss caused by the accident are irreplaceable.
A Case of Negligence, Not Murder
The judge directed his attention to the truck driver, highlighting that the accident was not a deliberate act of murder. The incident was, as one speaker aptly described, an accident. Nevertheless, the repercussions of this accident will have lasting consequences for everyone involved.
The Act of Negligence and Its Consequences
Judge Good explained that the truck driver’s actions constituted negligence and a failure of due care. The driver failed to exercise the necessary attention while driving on unfamiliar roads. Despite the presence of warning signs, including rumble strips, flashing lights, and stop signs, the driver negligently proceeded through the intersection. Tragically, this act of negligence resulted in the loss of a life and forever changed the lives of both families.
Understanding the Legal Perspective
Considering different culpable mental states, the judge classified the truck driver’s conduct as negligence, as opposed to intentional or reckless behavior. The charge of vehicular manslaughter, a second-degree misdemeanor, accurately described the level of culpability. The judge emphasized that the maximum penalty for this offense, as prescribed by law, is 90 days in the county jail, a two-year license suspension, and a $750 fine.
The Sentencing Decision
In determining an appropriate sentence, Judge Good had to consider whether a jail sentence was necessary. Despite recognizing the genuine remorse shown by the truck driver and the stress of the situation, the judge was troubled by the driver’s initial dishonesty when questioned by authorities. His false statement about stopping at the stop sign raised concerns about his credibility and accountability.
Acknowledging the Magnitude of Loss
The judge acknowledged that no amount of punishment could truly match the magnitude of the loss experienced by the victim’s family. While a maximum sentence does convey the seriousness of the offense, Judge Good believed that even this was insufficient in capturing the gravity of the driver’s behavior.
The Sentence
Ultimately, Judge Good sentenced the truck driver to the maximum penalty allowed by law: 90 days in the county jail, an fine of $750, and a two-year license suspension. The judge acknowledged that this sentence, while necessary, still fails to fully address the gravity of the situation.
Conclusion
The sentencing hearing for Abdikadir Shire served as a painful reminder of the profound loss suffered by the Keener family. Their heartfelt statements expressed a range of emotions, from anger and frustration to deep sorrow and longing. John Keener’s untimely death has left a void in the lives of his loved ones that can never be filled. Through their grief, the family hopes to raise awareness about the devastating consequences of distracted driving and advocate for stronger penalties. They cherish the memories they have of John and hold onto the hope of one day being reunited with him.
Judge Good’s poignant speech during the sentencing of a truck driver involved in a tragic accident reveals the complex nature of the legal system and its limitations in providing complete justice. The judge’s words reflect his understanding of the pain and grief experienced by both families involved. While the sentence may seem inadequate to some, it represents the full extent of the court’s power under current legislation. As the community grapples with the aftermath of this devastating incident, it underscores the need for ongoing discussions and potential reforms to prevent such accidents from happening in the future.
ASHLAND, Ohio – Leaders at Ashland University and alumni of the school are embracing the opportunity to raise awareness and a greater understanding of the history of Jewish people, the Holocaust and today’s antisemitic threats, having formally partnered with Yad Vashem, the World Holocaust Remembrance Center.
As previously announced, two visiting scholars—Yossi Kugler, Ph.D., a researcher at Yad Vashem, and Sarah Levy, a program coordinator of Echoes & Reflections—will be joining the AU community for two weeks in February. Now, a schedule of events, most open to the public, has been finalized during their stay:
· From Feb. 12-22, Kugler will be teaching a one-credit political science seminar course, “The Holocaust,” for interested AU students
· On Thursday, Feb. 15, Kugler, in conjunction with the Ashland Center for Nonviolence, will present a public lecture, “Knowledge and Lack of Knowledge in the Holocaust,” at the John C. Myers Convocation Center (Trustees Room) at 7 p.m.
· On Thursday, Feb. 22, at noon, Kugler will be at the Ohio History Center in Columbus as he’s been asked to speak during the Ohio Holocaust & Genocide Memorial & Education Commission meeting
· On Wednesday, Feb. 7, at 4 p.m., Levy will present virtually for the Nancy & David Wolf Holocaust & Humanity Center in Cincinnati
· On Thursday, Feb. 8, Levy will make a series of presentations at the Maltz Museum in Cleveland
· On Wednesday, Feb. 7, and Monday, Feb. 12, Levy will lead a series of seminars for AU education students, area educators and students from Ashland High School and Norwalk High School
“We are extremely excited about this opportunity for AU students, regional educators and local high school students to learn more about the Holocaust directly from scholars from Yad Vashem. With few Holocaust survivors still living today, it is more important than ever to continue to tell their stories and remember,” said Charles Neff, D.Min., the executive director of Christian ministry at AU. “Ashland University is proud to be a partner in that effort.”
With the unprovoked Hamas-led attack on Israel on Oct. 7 and the ongoing war there, plus a number of antisemitic incidents occurring in the U.S. and throughout the world, the timing of this programming could not be better. It should be noted, though, that AU’s partnership with Yad Vashem has been in the works since 2020.
AU President Carlos Campo, Ph.D., has made it a priority during his administration to provide impactful initiatives (outside of the traditional classroom) for the students, faculty and staff and Ashland community. This Yad Vashem partnership comes at the perfect time, with antisemitism incidents having taken place on U.S. college campuses, even in Ohio as noted by Gov. Mike DeWine. In a November statement, the governor said in part, “We will not tolerate hate and violence on our college campuses or anywhere in Ohio. These are despicable acts … I will ensure that the State continues our efforts to protect all Ohio students.”
Campo takes that message to heart. “While I’m pleased to report we haven’t had any specific antisemitic threats here at Ashland, we must stay vigilant and eliminate any form of hate. We’re thrilled to welcome Dr. Kugler and Professor Levy to Ashland and look forward to them educating our campus community and the community at-large about the Holocaust and the importance of remaining diligent against the forces and ideas that continue to threaten Jewish people around the world,” he said.
AU is able to welcome these visiting scholars, thanks to the support of Jason Lieberman ‘00 and Jim Smail, a member of the AU Board of Trustees. Lieberman, a Jew, and Smail, a Christian, joined forces for this cause. Despite practicing different religions and being about 30 years apart in age, they developed a bond over a shared vision.
For Lieberman, a vice president/financial advisor and portfolio manager for Morgan Stanley in Boca Raton, Fla., the cause is deeply personal. His grandfather came to the U.S. after the rest of the family nearly all perished during the Holocaust, and when Lieberman made his way to AU in the late 1990s he found few resources for Jewish students like himself. “I lost that part of my life,” he recalled, and now he wants to help “create a better experience.”
For Smail, the cause is personal in a different way. He always has been a “firm believer in the Bible text that the Jewish people are God’s own people,” and he also feels indebted to a Jewish family that took him “in as one of their own,” at the onset of what became his remarkably successful career in the banking and finance industry. By backing this cause Smail “will honor them and their faith in a very small way.”
When Lieberman and Smail woke up to the news of the Oct. 7 attacks, their perspectives and urgency changed. Lieberman, who was vacationing internationally at the time, admitted to a “different level of fear than I’ve felt in my life,” while Smail knew this was the perfect time to act.
“It’s so timely. What better time for (the Yad Vashem scholars) to come in to (educate) our students and anybody else that’s interested on the horrendous persecution that the Jewish people have gone though for centuries … to bring awareness of what happened on Oct. 7 and what the long-term ramifications of that could be … to start a program of educating and uniting Christian students and Jewish students,” said Smail, a strong advocate of the Christians United for Israel organization. “This was started way before Oct. 7, but what happened Oct. 7 gave what we’re doing a whole lot more meaning.”
Lieberman agreed that bringing awareness is paramount, especially to today’s students many of whom weren’t even born until 60 years after the Holocaust ended. “Lack of understanding and lack of awareness is something I experienced (25-30 years ago). The Holocaust seems surreal, almost something that didn’t happen. If I could help students become aware of this, so that something like this never happens again, that would be the significance to me. This isn’t a Jewish thing, it’s a humanity-type thing,” he said.
Campo is thankful for Lieberman and Smail for making AU’s Yad Vashem partnership possible and the impact it will have on the students and Ashland community. “We continue to express our desire for understanding, believing that right thinking and education can lead to better outcomes for our world. We hope that our students, faculty, staff and community will benefit from this most recent initiative as we work to combat the vitriol and animosity that seems to be on the rise in the U.S. and around the globe,” he said.
Every day, residents of Mansfield rely on their vehicles to commute to work, school, and other essential destinations. However, alarming statistics show a significant surge in the number of stolen vehicles being reported to the Mansfield Division of Police. Since December 1st, 2023, a total of 20 vehicles have been reported stolen in our city. This marks a concerning 35% increase compared to the same time period last year. It is imperative that we take preventive measures to safeguard our vehicles and minimize the chances of theft. In this article, we will discuss some crucial vehicle security and theft prevention tips for the Mansfield community.
Lock It Up: The Power of a Simple Action
One of the easiest yet most effective ways to protect your vehicle from theft is by simply locking it. Even if you are making a quick stop, always remember to lock your car doors. Leaving your vehicle unlocked presents an easy opportunity for thieves. They can quickly enter the vehicle and drive away unnoticed. By taking the extra second to lock your car, you significantly decrease the likelihood of becoming a victim of vehicle theft.
Avoid Keeping Valuables and Spare Keys Inside the Vehicle
Another important precautionary measure is to avoid leaving any valuables or spare keys inside your vehicle. Thieves often target cars that have visible items of value, such as laptops, mobile phones, or purses. By removing these items or keeping them out of sight, you minimize the temptation for potential thieves. Additionally, refrain from leaving spare keys in your vehicle as it increases the chance of unauthorized access.
Don’t Leave Your Vehicle Unattended
The Mansfield Chief of Police, Keith Porch, emphasizes the need to be vigilant when it comes to leaving your vehicle unattended. Statistics from recent vehicle theft investigations reveal that 30% of all stolen vehicles in the city between December 1, 2023, and January 23, 2024, were left running unattended to warm up or during quick stops at stores or residences. If you need to warm up your vehicle, it is crucial not to leave it unattended. Similarly, when making a quick stop, always turn off the vehicle, take your keys with you, and lock the doors. Adopting these practices significantly reduces the risk of theft.
The Power of Community: Report Suspicious Activity
As responsible members of the Mansfield community, we can play an active role in reducing and preventing vehicle thefts. If you notice any suspicious individuals or activity around parked vehicles, do not hesitate to report it immediately to the police. By calling 9-1-1, you provide crucial information that can aid in apprehending potential thieves and making our community safer for everyone. Remember, together we can make a difference.
The alarming rise in motor vehicle thefts in Mansfield necessitates immediate action from residents. By implementing simple yet effective preventive measures, we can significantly reduce the risk of becoming victims of vehicle theft. Locking your vehicle, avoiding leaving valuables and spare keys inside, and never leaving your vehicle unattended are essential practices to adopt. Additionally, our community is empowered to report any suspicious individuals or activity to the police. By working together, we can create a safer environment for all residents of Mansfield.
UPDATE: Her daughter has been located. Thank you all for the shares and concern.
Local resident Kandi McCrea is asking for the public’s help in finding her daughter.
Facebook post reads as follows:
Please Help! My daughter, Destiny Wilson (Sailor Dave) is MISSING. She never came home after she left Gatsbys Pub South in Canton, OH around 12:30am last night/this morning.
Destiny is 27 years old, 4’11” and approx 130 lbs. She has a partially shaved head and blond ish hair with green and/or blue highlights. She has two little hearts tattooed by her left eye. She was driving her 2003 Chevy Tahoe that’s a gray/silver color. License plate KER1520.
We have contacted both Canton & Ashland PD and we have an official missing persons report started. We are scared!
She was supposed to stop at a friends house after the club and never made it. She has never not contacted us like this and she would never leave her son. Ever! If you have any information on her whereabouts, if you saw her last night, if you know she’s been with someone, any information is helpful for the Canton and/or Ashland Police Dept. This is literally a parents worst nightmare. Please help us.
Please join us Saturday, January 27th for free grocery distribution!
Matthew 25 Outreach Center of Ashland County Luray Lanes
647 E. Main St
Ashland, OH
Drive through distribution starts at 10:00 am and ends at 1:00pm
Volunteers needed from 7:00am through 1:00pm
We provide food to anyone in need, while sharing God’s love and peace with all we encounter. This work requires the help of many volunteers ….. so bring your family, friends, neighbors, and your co-workers to join us as we distribute groceries to families in need of assistance.
Our FREE drive-through grocery distribution takes place from 10:00am – 1:00pm, in the parking lot of the Luray Lanes, located at 647 E. Main St, in Ashland. The entire distribution is outdoors so please dress for the weather. The bowling alley will be open, so we’ll have access to restrooms and to take a break from the weather, as needed.
If you would like to help with this FREE grocery distribution, please meet us Saturday, January 27th at
7:00am to help with the initial staging process, as our truckload of food arrives
7:00am to help direct traffic
8:00am to help package bulk foods into family size packages, to make ready for distribution
8:00am to help register every family that receives food (a quick training session is available)
8:00am to help with home deliveries (this requires the use of your personal vehicle)
Not available to help us the 4th Saturday of each month? That’s OK ……
Please contact us if you are interested in delivering shelf stable food boxes to seniors located in Ashland County …. deliveries take place anytime throughout the month.
Maybe you are interested in helping install yard signs the week of our distribution – you can contact us to learn more about this volunteer opportunity.
We have volunteer opportunities for people of all ages and all abilities! Please join us (and bring your friends) as we distribute FREE groceries and share God’s love with the people of Ashland County. We look forward to seeing you Saturday and pray that you’ll serve alongside us!
Twenty years ago, Ken and I took a walk in Ashland through the Seminary quad. As we came upon one of the oldest buildings, Ken spotted a piano in the window and asked, “Do you think anyone would mind if I stopped in to play a moment?” The building was lit and had a few students roaming about so in we went.
Ken sat down to play the most beautiful song—Autumn Leaves.
I sat beside him on the bench and began to cry. “What’s wrong?” he asked. I told him it took me two years to learn this very song on the piano so I could play it for my dad on Christmas morning.
Most people believe you cannot love someone you don’t even know. I didn’t know Ken emotionally or physically, yet I knew him. We had an attachment that was much more than a romantic feeling. It was not temporary or selfish in nature. We did not fall in love. Our love was definitely orchestrated by God. We developed a deep appreciation and admiration for each other, an awareness of each other’s needs, strengths, and character. We began to experience true love, one that could grow for our lifetime.
God wants to give us miracles because every miracle is a testimony of how much He loves us. I thank God for His gift of love and for the music of Autumn Leaves.
Blessings,
Dianne Hammontree, secretary of Homeward Bound, Inc.
Looking for an event that will uplift, challenge, and inspire you and your family? Look no further than the Step Out of the Boat Conference. This annual conference, held at the Bethel Baptist Church in Savannah, Ohio, brings together 20 Former Amish, Mennonite, Hutterite, and Mormon speakers who have taken a leap of faith, overcome their fears and doubts, and achieved God’s purposes for their lives. Join us from March 13-16 for a weekend filled with powerful testimonies, fellowship, and, of course, delicious food!
At the Step Out of the Boat Conference, you will have the opportunity to listen to captivating stories from 20 individuals who have stepped out in faith. These speakers, hailing from Idaho, Colorado, South Dakota, Minnesota, Kansas, and various eastern and southern states, have overcome immense fear and unbelief to accomplish great things in their lives. Their stories will encourage, inspire, and challenge you to move away from your comfort zone and make a difference in your generation.
The Step Out of the Boat Conference is not just for adults. This is a family event, meaning you can bring your children and your spouse along. It’s a fantastic opportunity for your loved ones to hear empowering stories and be inspired to step out of their own comfort zones. Don’t forget to invite your friends and neighbors as well – everyone is welcome at this incredible gathering of faith.
Mark your calendars for March 13-16 and come join us at the Bethel Baptist Church in Savannah, Ohio. This beautiful venue sets the perfect atmosphere for a weekend of spiritual growth and connection with like-minded individuals. To secure your spot, make sure to register today at www.stepoutoftheboat.org. Don’t miss out on this transformative experience!
At the Step Out of the Boat Conference, we believe in fostering a sense of community and togetherness. That’s why we offer not only inspiring talks but also plenty of opportunities for fellowship. Throughout the event, you’ll have the chance to enjoy tons of homemade family style food and engage in board games that will bring moments of laughter and connection. So, come prepared to have a great time bonding with old and new friends alike.
As an added bonus, we are opening the doors to the public on Friday evening, March 15, at 6:30pm for a FREE 90-minute bluegrass gospel concert. Get ready to be blown away by the soul-stirring music of Williamson Branch, all the way from Nashville, Tennessee. This concert is an absolute must-see for music lovers and those seeking an evening of joyful and uplifting entertainment. Make sure to mark the date on your calendar and bring your family and friends along.
We understand that you may have questions about the Step Out of the Boat Conference. If you need any assistance or clarification, please feel free to reach out to our friendly office staff at (419) 962-1515. We are here to help and ensure that you have all the information you need to make the most of this incredible event.
The Step Out of the Boat Conference is an unforgettable opportunity to witness the power of faith and transformation. Join us from March 13-16 at the Bethel Baptist Church in Savannah, Ohio, to hear the remarkable stories of 20 courageous individuals who stepped out of their boats and into a life of purpose and impact. This family event will not only inspire you but also challenge you to step out of your own comfort zone. Don’t miss out on this life-changing experience – register today at www.stepoutoftheboat.org and begin your journey toward a more impactful and fulfilling life.
This morning, at 11:30 AM, Christopher Ferrell and his attorney, Gregory Tarkowsky, appeared before Ashland County Court of Common Pleas Magistrate Paul T. Lange for Ferrell’s arraignment hearing via video conference regarding the animal abuse case. According to attorney Gregory Tarkowsky, his client pleads not guilty to both charges. The Ashland County Prosecutor’s Office was represented by Assistant Prosecuting Attorney Michael Callow at the hearing.
Although Christopher Ferrell was initially charged on January 2, 2024, the Ashland County grand jury later indicted Ferrell on two counts – one count of cruelty to companion animals, a felony of the fifth degree, and one count of unlawful possession of dangerous ordnance, also a felony of the fifth degree.
The indictment states the following:
“Of the 2nd Partial in the year two thousand twenty four, THE JURORS OF THE GRAND JURY OF THE State of Ohio, within and for the body of the County aforesaid, on their oaths, in the name and by the authority of the State of Ohio, do find and present that CHRISTOPHER FERRELL did:
COUNT ONE: CRUELTY TO COMPANION ANIMALS a felony of the fifth degree. In that on or about December 29, 2023 through December 30, 2023, in Ashland County, Ohio, CHRISTOPHER FERRELL, did knowingly cause serious physical harm to a companion animal, to wit: a cat, in violation of Ohio Revised Code
COUNT TWO: UNLAWFUL POSSESSION OF DANGEROUS ORDNANCE a felony of the fifth degree. In that on or about December 30, 2023, in Ashland County, Ohio, CHRISTOPHER FERRELL, did knowingly acquire, have, carry, or use any dangerous ordnance, to wit: sawed off break action shotgun, in violation of Ohio Revised Code and against the peace and dignity of the State of Ohio.”
Ashland County Prosecuting Attorney Christopher R. Tunnell had previously released a statement after Ferrell’s arrest on January 2, 2024, noting that a complaint had been filed against Ferrell in the Ashland County Court of Common Pleas. The complaint, filed by the Ashland Police Department, charges Ferrell with cruelty to animals (also known as Goddard’s Law) and unlawful possession of a dangerous ordnance, both felonies of the fifth degree.
The statement further detailed that on December 30, 2023, concerned citizens had approached on-duty Ashland Police Officers to report finding an injured cat in a taped and thrown litter box in a dumpster on West Main Street in Ashland. The cat was alive but severely injured. The Ashland Police Department then contacted The Cat House Feline Sanctuary, Inc., a nonprofit organization that cares for homeless cats, and its Director Laura Bailey coordinated emergency veterinary care with Dr. Lisa Schwan of the Spring Meadow Veterinary Clinic. It was later determined that the cat had suffered inflicted, blunt force trauma and a penetrating wound to the head believed to have been caused by a pellet gun, and was beyond care and had to be euthanized.
A jury trial has been scheduled for March 19, 2024 at 8:30 AM. Ferrell remains held at the Ashland County Jail, unable to post the $25,000 bond amount.
Joe Lyons •
January 25, 2024
Ashland University’s 2023-24 Environmental Lecture Series, featuring a theme of “Does green infrastructure improve urban environments?” will kick off on Thursday, Feb. 1, with special guest Jean-Michel Guldmann, professor emeritus and Academy Professor of City and Regional Planning at Ohio State University’s Knowlton School of Architecture. He will present “Tree and Building Shade for Urban Heat Migration: Measuring Shade Temperature Effects and Population Exposure in Columbus, Ohio” at the Ronk Lecture Hall inside AU’s Dwight Schar College of Education, beginning at 7:30 p.m.
ASHLAND, Ohio – Leaders at Ashland University and alumni of the school are embracing the opportunity to raise awareness and a greater understanding of the history of Jewish people, the Holocaust and today’s antisemitic threats, having formally partnered with Yad Vashem, the World Holocaust Remembrance Center.
For Smail, the cause is personal in a different way. He always has been a “firm believer in the Bible text that the Jewish people are God’s own people,” and he also feels indebted to a Jewish family that took him “in as one of their own,” at the onset of what became his remarkably successful career in the banking and finance industry. By backing this cause Smail “will honor them and their faith in a very small way.”
Lieberman agreed that bringing awareness is paramount, especially to today’s students many of whom weren’t even born until 60 years after the Holocaust ended. “Lack of understanding and lack of awareness is something I experienced (25-30 years ago). The Holocaust seems surreal, almost something that didn’t happen. If I could help students become aware of this, so that something like this never happens again, that would be the significance to me. This isn’t a Jewish thing, it’s a humanity-type thing,” he said.
Every day, residents of Mansfield rely on their vehicles to commute to work, school, and other essential destinations. However, alarming statistics show a significant surge in the number of stolen vehicles being reported to the Mansfield Division of Police. Since December 1st, 2023, a total of 20 vehicles have been reported stolen in our city. This marks a concerning 35% increase compared to the same time period last year. It is imperative that we take preventive measures to safeguard our vehicles and minimize the chances of theft. In this article, we will discuss some crucial vehicle security and theft prevention tips for the Mansfield community.
DIANNE’S DOGHOUSE