Imagine stepping back in time and witnessing a pivotal moment in history firsthand. That’s exactly what students at Genesis Christian Academy in Ashland, Ohio had the opportunity to do when Kenneth Hammontree, a history teacher at the academy, portrayed General Eisenhower and delivered a dramatic speech about the D-Day Landings. This immersive experience allowed the students to gain a deeper understanding of the remarkable events that unfolded on that fateful day in history.
On the evening of July 6, 1944, General Eisenhower addressed the international press corps that had been flown across the English Channel for an exclusive press conference. This was Eisenhower’s first public comments on the June 6th D-Day invasion, also known as Operation Overlord, and its success. The D-Day landings marked the beginning of the end for Hitler’s Third Reich and the reign of terror in Europe.
Operation Overlord was not only an astonishing military operation but also a logistical triumph. It involved putting ashore on the Normandy beaches a staggering number of personnel and equipment. A total of 176,475 men, 3,000 artillery pieces, 1,500 tanks, and 15,000 assorted vehicles were deployed. Additionally, close to 8,000 fighting ships, merchant ships, and assault crafts were committed to the entire invasion force, accompanied by 10,500 air sorties. The scale of this operation was unprecedented.
Before the D-Day landings, Allied commanders privately expressed their concerns to Eisenhower, predicting that as many as 12,000 men could be killed in the first 24 hours of the assault. They even feared that the invasion could be repelled, pushing the Allied forces back into the sea. Despite these grim predictions, the actual casualties were lower than anticipated. Less than 6,600 American soldiers were killed on D-Day, with the total casualties for the Allies at 8,422. In contrast, the Germans suffered over 9,000 casualties in just 24 hours. The success of the invasion can be attributed to a combination of factors, including the highly intricate Allied deception plans and the breaking of the Enigma Code, which led Hitler and his military staff to believe that the invasion would occur at Pas-De-Calais.
Kenneth Hammontree, a dedicated teacher at Genesis Christian Academy, brought General Eisenhower to life during his portrayal. With an exceptional grasp of historical facts and an ability to capture Eisenhower’s demeanor, Hammontree transported students back to that momentous day in history. Through his portrayal, students gained a deeper appreciation for the courage and determination displayed by the Allied forces during the D-Day landings.
It is vital for students to not only read about history in textbooks but also to have opportunities to experience it firsthand. Kenneth Hammontree’s portrayal of General Eisenhower provided Genesis Christian Academy students with a unique and immersive learning experience. By witnessing history come alive through Hammontree’s passionate depiction, students were able to connect with the events of the past on a deeper level. This unforgettable learning experience will undoubtedly stay with them for years to come.
The portrayal of General Eisenhower by Kenneth Hammontree at Genesis Christian Academy offered students a remarkable opportunity to witness history firsthand. By delving into the details of the D-Day landings, students gained a newfound appreciation for the immense scale and significance of Operation Overlord. Thanks to Hammontree’s dedicated portrayal, students were able to step into the shoes of those who shaped history, experiencing the courage and sacrifices of the brave individuals who fought for a better future. This immersive learning experience reaffirms the importance of bringing history alive in the classroom and inspiring the next generation to value the lessons of the past.
In a recent turn of events, the Ashland County Commissioners, comprising President Denny Bittle, Vice President James Justice, and Commissioner Michael Welch, have released a new policy and procedures for the Ashland County Dog Shelter. However, this move has sparked a firestorm of controversy and concern among the local community.
The firestorm began when a post on Facebook claimed that there was a “kill list” for the dog shelter, accompanied by pictures of dogs nearing the one-year mark. This alarmed many animal lovers. In response to the backlash, Denny Bittle, clarifying that there is no “kill list.” However, Bittle emphasized the importance of having a policy and procurers in place. Until now, the shelter had been operating without any such measures.
Bittle highlighted that a shelter is not a rescue, where animals are kept for life. Instead, the aim of a shelter is to find suitable homes for the dogs, It’s just not fair to the dogs. He also clarified that being “no-kill” does not mean no euthanasia. Commenting, that to be considered no-kill, organizations should have a placement rate of 90% or higher. Unfortunately, there will always be a small percentage of animals that cannot be placed due to severe or untreatable illnesses or behavior issues.
According to www.animalhumanesociety.org It’s essential to understand that there is no universal definition or governing body that determines what “no-kill” means. The 90% placement standard is simply a widely agreed-upon threshold that organizations strive to achieve. Over time, this target has evolved, starting at 80% and then raised to 85%. It could change again in the future.
One of the main concerns arising from the new policy revolves around the rules for euthanasia. Here are the key points outlined in the policy:
Dogs shall be kept for redemption prior to destruction for the time period required by ORC 955.16 and this policy, subject to the limitations contained within.
Euthanasia will only be performed by a licensed veterinarian or licensed staff member.
Dogs deemed vicious or having bitten a member of the public, a shelter volunteer, or a shelter worker will be euthanized after the prescribed quarantine period.
Dogs that have been at the shelter for more than one year will be euthanized.
These rules have prompted a passionate response from the community, with a petition circulating on Facebook to save the dogs listed in imminent danger of euthanasia. Volunteers at the Ashland County Dog Shelter have been working tirelessly, walking the dogs, grooming them, and engaging in enrichment activities such as K9 Nose Work to showcase their brilliance and loving nature. They believe that these lives should not be prematurely ended and there must be alternative solutions, such as increased funding for shelters and robust adoption programs.
One particular program that has made a significant difference in the lives of the shelter dogs is K9 Nose Work. This training method taps into their natural hunting and scenting abilities, providing them with mental and physical exercise while building confidence and reducing sensitivity. Volunteers have been investing their time, funding, and assistance from sponsors to incorporate this training into the long-term resident dogs at the shelter, hoping to showcase their strengths and attributes to potential adopters.
If you are interested in adopting a current nose work-trained dog, sponsoring one, or volunteering to handle a dog during their training, you can reach out to Jessi at Volunteerashlandcodogshelter@gmail.com.
The outcry from concerned individuals has been immense, with many expressing their disappointment in the new policies set forth by the Ashland County Commissioners. Their belief is that these innocent dogs deserve the opportunity to be adopted, rather than being subjected to euthanasia for circumstances beyond their control. They have united to sign petitions and are determined to make their voices heard at County Commissioners meetings and during future elections. Ashland County is known for its love for dogs, and the community aims to ensure that these lives are not needlessly lost.
The recent release of the new policy and procedures by the Ashland County Commissioners has created a firestorm of controversy at the Ashland County Dog Shelter. While the intentions behind the policies may be rooted in the welfare of the animals, it is essential to consider alternative solutions and strive towards a no-kill environment. The passionate community of Ashland County is standing up for innocent lives and demanding that the Commissioners explore other avenues before resorting to euthanasia. Together, they hope to make a difference and save the lives of dogs who deserve a second chance at finding a loving home.
The next Board of Commissioner’s Meeting will be on January 18, 2024,at 9:00am
The Loudonville Police Department has closed its pending investigation of a Loudonville school teacher. The department received information on April 7, 2023 that multiple students had raised concerns that the teacher may have made contact with a minor female student’s buttocks with his hand outside of school hours and property. Preliminary investigation produced additional concerns that the teacher may be engaging in a relationship beyond an ordinary teacher-student relationship with the same student.
The student and the teacher participated in one interview each. Both denied any physical contact occurred. The teacher characterized his relationship with the student as being like “family” and said she was “like a little sister” to him. The teacher also acknowledged to an officer that he had exchanged text messages with the student.
The cellular telephones of the teacher and the student were obtained and searched. The student’s phone contained 142,375 text messages that were exchanged between the teacher and the student between January of 2021 and April of 2023. All text messages were reviewed as part of the investigation.
While the vast majority of text messages related to ordinary high school matters, officers were concerned with periodic messages related to the current and/or potential future relationship status between the teacher and the student. In the summer of 2021 , text messages from the teacher’ phone to the student’s phone stated that the student was his “best friend” as well as numerous discussions of their dating relationships with other people.
By early 2022, messages from the teacher’s phone continued to refer to the student as his “best friend” and telling her that other people would not understand their relationship. In May of 2022, a text message from his phone stated “I’m never leaving you. You’re not leaving me.”
By the summer of 2022, text messages from the teacher’s phone included comments like “I want to know everything about you” and discussions of the opportunities they would have to spend time together alone after the student graduates from high school. By that time, the text messages from the teacher’s phone were using the term “love” to describe the sender’s feelings toward the student. Text messages from the teacher’s phone to the student stating “I love you” became more numerous, along with text messages from his phone to hers talking about how they will be able to spend more time together after she is an adult. Another message stated that his “life would suck” without the student, and they “belong together.”
A photograph found on the teacher’s phone and date stamped March of 2023 depicted a piece of paper with a handwritten list titled “Reasons [TEACHER NAME REDACTED] loves [STUDENT NAME REDACTED].” “Reasons” on the list included “l love that we’re gonna get married” and “l love that we’re gonna have babies together.”
Officers completed an exhaustive review of the content on both phones. The text messages referring to “love” and plans to spend time together after high school graduation raised concerns that the teacher’s actions could include criminal behaviors and led to a lengthy and exhaustive investigation. After review of all collectible evidence on both phones, no communications or images evidenced the commission of a crime under Ohio law. No criminal charges will be filed at this time.
Are you ready for an unforgettable evening of entertainment and fun? Look no further than Roald Dahl’s Matilda the Musical Jr. at The Ashland Theatre in Ashland. Get ready to be transported into the world of Matilda, an extraordinary girl who dares to challenge her destiny armed with her vivid imagination and sharp mind. Presented by The Salvation Army Ray & Joan Kroc Corps Community Center, this enchanting production promises to captivate audiences of all ages, so grab your tickets and get ready for a night you won’t forget!
Ashland’s streets will come alive with rebellion as the youth of The Salvation Army Kroc Youth Theatre present Roald Dahl’s Matilda the Musical Jr. Inspired by the beloved book “Matilda” and adapted from the award-winning full-length musical, this production promises an electrifying experience for everyone attending. Immerse yourself in the tale of Matilda, a remarkable girl who challenges the status quo and strives to change her own reality. This powerful story teaches us that no matter how little we may be, we can still make a big impact in the world.
“One of my favorite moments early in the show is when Matilda sings, ‘Even if you are little you can do a lot’. It’s such a powerful reminder for each of us, tall and small, to take ownership of how we can create our reality,” says Major Billy Francis. The inspiring message of this musical resonates with audiences of all ages, urging them to embrace their capabilities and strive for greatness. Matilda’s journey encourages us to step out of our comfort zones and challenge the norms, reminding us that we have the power to shape our own destinies.
Through the process of putting on this musical, the youth of The Salvation Army Kroc Youth Theatre are coming together, working tirelessly to bring this extraordinary event to their community. Their dedication and hard work deserve a standing ovation. Major Billy Francis acknowledges the effort of these young performers and is proud to see them take ownership and create an exceptional experience for their audience.
Performance Details
The performances of Roald Dahl’s Matilda the Musical Jr. will take place on the following dates and times:
Friday, January 12 at 7 p.m.
Saturday, January 13 at 3 p.m. and 7 p.m.
Sunday, January 14 at 3 p.m.
Tickets for this captivating show range from $12 to $18. To secure your seat, visit The Ashland Theatre’s website (https://theashland.org/) or purchase tickets in-person at their box office. Don’t miss out on this remarkable opportunity to witness the talent and passion of Ashland’s young performers.
Dan Lawson, PhD, Director of Community Relations and Development for the Ashland Kroc Center, expresses his gratitude to the Ashland community for their unwavering support of this production. Numerous local organizations, including the Ashland County Community Foundation, Masterminds Escape Room & Game Library, Donley Ford, The Ashland Theatre, and Vinyl Marketing, have contributed to making this event a success. It is the collective effort of the community that allows these talented young individuals to showcase their abilities and bring this production to life.
Thrilling, captivating, and unforgettable – these are just a few of the words that come to mind when describing the experience of watching Roald Dahl’s Matilda the Musical Jr. Witnessing the dedication and passion of the young cast and their supporting team during dress and tech rehearsals has flooded my heart with joy. Every accomplishment achieved is a testament to the hard work and determination of these incredible children, not forgetting the unwavering support of their parents. This production deserves a resounding standing ovation!
Tonight is the night! Prepare yourself for an exciting evening of entertainment and fun as The Salvation Army Ray & Joan Kroc Corps Community Center presents Roald Dahl’s Matilda the Musical Jr. at The Ashland Theatre in Ashland. This extraordinary production brings Roald Dahl’s beloved story to life, inspiring audiences to embrace their own capabilities and challenge their destinies. Don’t miss your chance to be a part of this magical experience that will leave you wanting more. Grab your tickets now and join us for an unforgettable night at The Ashland Theatre!
Sheriff E. Wayne Risner has cancelled the current Level 1 Snow Emergency for Ashland County, OH.
Sheriff E. Wayne Risner has issued a Level 1 Snow Emergency for Ashland County, OH.
LEVEL 1: Roadways are hazardous with blowing and drifting snow. Roads may also be icy. Drivers are urged to drive very cautiously.
LEVEL 2: Roadways are hazardous with blowing and drifting snow. Roads may also be very icy. Only those who feel it is necessary to drive should be out on the roads. Contact your employer to see if you should report to work. Drivers should use extreme caution.
LEVEL 3: All roadways are closed to non-emergency personnel. No one should be driving during these conditions unless it is absolutely necessary to travel or a personal emergency exists. All employees should contact their employer to see if they should report to work. Those traveling on the roads may subject themselves to arrest.
ASHLAND, Ohio – The Coburn Gallery at Ashland University will be hosting an exhibition featuring works by faculty in the AU Department of Art + Design from Thursday, Jan. 18, through Sunday, Feb. 18. There will be a two-hour opening reception on Thursday, Jan. 18, beginning at 4:30 p.m. Gallery admission is free and open to the public.
This is an annual exhibition that spotlights the two-dimensional and three-dimensional works of the current faculty as professional artists in their respective areas of specialty. Each member pursues an active studio career in addition to their teaching responsibilities.
The exhibition features the following AU Art + Design faculty members: Keith Dull, Emily Fitch, Priscilla Roggenkamp, Dan McDonald, Cynthia Petry, Emily Bartolone, Mary Stauffer, Kit Palencar, Mike Rowan, Tracy Miller-Robbins and Michael Bird.
The Coburn Gallery is open from 10 a.m.-5 p.m. weekdays and noon-4 p.m. on weekends. For more information, visit the gallery’s Facebook page or call 419-289-5652.
On the evening of May 7th, 1945, Oskar Schindler, portrayed by Kenneth Hammontree History Teacher at Genesis Christian Academy, delivered a poignant speech to the students at Genesis Christian Academy in Ashland, Ohio. The event aimed to bring history alive, allowing the students to witness firsthand the remarkable story of Oskar Schindler, who saved over three thousand Jews during the Holocaust.
Oskar Schindler’s Final Goodbye
At 12:05 am on May 8th, 1945, World War II officially ended in Europe. However, for Oskar Schindler and his wife Emile, the war’s conclusion did not signal safety. As war criminals, they faced the threat of execution by the Russians or even their fellow Germans. Understanding the imminent danger, Schindler gathered his 1,300 Jewish workers and the remaining 27 SS guards for a final farewell.
The Miracle of Rescue
Over the course of several years, Schindler and his wife executed a miraculous plan to save as many Jewish lives as possible. Through the use of his factories, he shielded thousands from the horrors of the death camps. It was through his resourcefulness, including presentation skills, bribery, and grand gestures to the SS in Berlin, that Schindler managed to protect countless lives from the clutches of the Nazi regime.
Unraveling the Motivation
The question remains: Why did Oskar Schindler risk his life and spend millions to save Jews from the Holocaust? While we may never fully comprehend the depths of his motivations, it is clear that Schindler rose to the highest level of humanity. Despite his vices, such as excessive drinking, smoking, and indulgence in material possessions, Schindler’s compassion remained intact.
A Second Chance for Life
Oskar Schindler’s actions provided thousands of Jews with a second chance at life during a time when hope seemed lost. His unwavering respect for human life allowed him to navigate the dark and bloody mud of the Holocaust without compromising his own moral compass. As recognition of his extraordinary deeds, Schindler and his wife were honored as “Righteous Among the Nations” by the Jewish Nation on June 24, 1993, a distinction bestowed upon them as the only members of the Nazi Party to receive such an honor.
The visit of Oskar Schindler, portrayed by Kenneth Hammontree, to Genesis Christian Academy in Ashland, Ohio, offered a unique opportunity for students to experience history firsthand. Through Schindler’s story, they learned about the resilience of the human spirit and the impact one individual can have on the lives of others. Oskar Schindler’s legacy continues to inspire and serve as a reminder of the power of compassion even in the darkest of times.
COLUMBUS, OH – State Rep. Melanie Miller (R-City of Ashland) has issued the following statement on the Ohio House of Representatives voting to override Governor DeWine’s veto of House Bill 68, the SAFE Act and the Save Women’s Sports Act:
“This is a vote to protect women and children. We must protect our children from making life altering decisions at such an early age – decisions that they will never be able to reverse. Moms and dads always need to be a part of these critical decisions,” said Miller. “When it comes to women’s athletics, this vote ensures that females can compete on a level playing field, and not against biological males.”
The veto override now heads to the Ohio Senate for consideration.
Columbus, Ohio – Early this morning, members of the U.S. Marshals Southern Ohio Fugitive Apprehension Strike Team (SOFAST) arrested Ja’Vontae Jones, 22. Jones was wanted by the Mansfield Police Department for murder.
Jones was wanted by Mansfield Police for the June 8, 2023, murders of Jonathan Ash, 18, and Nathan Carroll, 18. Police responded to a vehicle crash and gunshots in the area of West Fourth St. and North Lake Park. Both were found shot to death in or near the vehicle.
In December of last year, a warrant for Jones’ arrest was issued. The warrant was turned over to the Northern Ohio Violent Fugitive Task Force (NOVFTF) for investigation into where Jones may be hiding. Investigators found that Jones was possibly living in Columbus. This morning, SOFAST was able to locate Jones and arrest him at a home on Alumcrest Ln. in Columbus.
U.S. Marshal Michael Black stated, “Our Columbus community is safer today knowing this violent fugitive is off the streets. Fugitives will not find a place to hide in Southern Ohio, they will be found, arrested and brought to justice for their crimes.”
Jones will remain in the Franklin County Jail until he can be extradited back to Mansfield to face the charges against him.
U.S. Marshal Pete Elliott added, “Dedicated police work by the Mansfield Police Department and outstanding teamwork across the state of Ohio is what will continue to ensure justice for the community in Mansfield as well as across the state of Ohio.”
Anyone with information concerning a wanted fugitive can contact the Northern Ohio Violent Fugitive Task Force at 1-866-4WANTED (1-866-492-6833), or you can submit a web tip. Reward money is available, and tipsters may remain anonymous. Follow the U.S. Marshals on Twitter @USMSCleveland.
On 01/10/24 at approximately 09:30 AM, the U.S. Marshals Northern Ohio Violent Fugitive Task Force (NOVFTF) and the Southern Ohio Fugitive Apprehension Strike Team (SOFAST), arrested Javontae Jones, who was wanted on an Murder warrant.
Mr. Jones is the suspect in the June 8, 2023 shooting death of Jonathan Ash and Nathan Carroll at 675 W. 4th St. Mansfield, Ohio.
The suspect was located in an apartment in the 1500 block of Alumcrest Ln. in Columbus, Ohio and taken into custody without incident.
We are hopeful that this arrest will not only provide some relief to the victim’s families but also, help alleviate any additional community fears. We ask that you respect the privacy of the families involved at this time.
Should anyone have additional information about this investigation please call Major Crimes Detective Terry Butler at (419) 755-9791
Joe Lyons •
January 14, 2024
The Loudonville Police Department has closed its pending investigation of a Loudonville school teacher. The department received information on April 7, 2023 that multiple students had raised concerns that the teacher may have made contact with a minor female student’s buttocks with his hand outside of school hours and property. Preliminary investigation produced additional concerns that the teacher may be engaging in a relationship beyond an ordinary teacher-student relationship with the same student.
Sheriff E. Wayne Risner has issued a Level 1 Snow Emergency for Ashland County, OH.
ASHLAND, Ohio – The Coburn Gallery at Ashland University will be hosting an exhibition featuring works by faculty in the AU Department of Art + Design from Thursday, Jan. 18, through Sunday, Feb. 18. There will be a two-hour opening reception on Thursday, Jan. 18, beginning at 4:30 p.m. Gallery admission is free and open to the public.
COLUMBUS, OH – State Rep. Melanie Miller (R-City of Ashland) has issued the following statement on the Ohio House of Representatives voting to override Governor DeWine’s veto of House Bill 68, the SAFE Act and the Save Women’s Sports Act:
Columbus, Ohio – Early this morning, members of the U.S. Marshals Southern Ohio Fugitive Apprehension Strike Team (SOFAST) arrested Ja’Vontae Jones, 22. Jones was wanted by the Mansfield Police Department for murder.
On 01/10/24 at approximately 09:30 AM, the U.S. Marshals Northern Ohio Violent Fugitive Task Force (NOVFTF) and the Southern Ohio Fugitive Apprehension Strike Team (SOFAST), arrested Javontae Jones, who was wanted on an Murder warrant.