The Ashland City Council Meeting held on January 2, 2024, marked a momentous occasion as it welcomed a special guest, none other than Melanie Miller, the esteemed 67th Ohio House District State Representative. The purpose of her attendance was to administer the oath of office to two respected council members, Ashland City Council President Steve Workman and Council-at-Large Dan Lawson, both of whom were reelected after serving their terms with honor and integrity.
The Ashland City Council Meeting witnessed the swearing in of two esteemed individuals who have dedicated their efforts towards the betterment of Ashland. Ashland City Council President Steve Workman expressed his gratitude to the community for entrusting him with another term as the Ward 1 City Councilman. His position as Council President was an esteemed recognition from his peers, and he felt humbled by the opportunity to serve in this capacity. State Representative Melanie Miller’s presence added an extra layer of honor to the event, creating an unforgettable experience for all involved.
Councilman Dan Lawson, representing the Council-at-Large, expressed his deep appreciation for both the people of Ashland, who voted him into office for another term, and State Representative Melanie Miller. Taking his oath of office from such a celebrated figure was an illustrious moment, serving as a testament to his commitment to diligently fulfill his duties as a councilman. He pledged to represent the people of Ashland with integrity and ensure the city’s best interests were upheld throughout his tenure.
The Ashland City Council is fortunate to have a dedicated group of local men and women committed to serving the city. Both Council President Steve Workman and Councilman Dan Lawson acknowledged the collective effort and unwavering commitment of their fellow council members. They believe in the potential of this cohesive unit to effect positive change and contribute to the growth and prosperity of Ashland.
With strong leadership and a passionate team, Ashland can look forward to a promising future. The Ashland City Council Meeting served as a reminder of the incredible individuals who dedicate themselves to the betterment of the community. Their tireless work behind the scenes ensures Ashland remains a city to be proud of, fostering an environment where residents feel supported and valued.
In conclusion, the Ashland City Council Meeting held on January 2, 2024, showcased the presence of State Representative Melanie Miller and the swearing-in of Council President Steve Workman and Councilman Dan Lawson, marking the beginning of their new terms. The commitment, dedication, and integrity of these individuals exemplify the ethos of public service, aiming to improve the lives of Ashland residents. With a united council and remarkable leaders at the helm, Ashland can confidently embrace a future of growth, progress, and prosperity.
And don’t forget to stay tuned for the impactful decisions and initiatives that will continue to shape Ashland’s future.
Self-defense, soccer and family fun are all on the menu!
ASHLAND, Ohio – Whether your New Year’s resolution is to get fit, learn a new skill, tap into your creative side, help your kiddos develop their talents, spend more time together as a family, or throw the best birthday party or bridal/baby shower for your loved-one, The Salvation Army Ray & Joan Kroc Corps Community Center in Ashland is ready to help you achieve your goals in 2024.
“In keeping with the mission of The Salvation Army, and the wishes of benefactor Joan Kroc for the Kroc Center facilities to focus on recreation, education and the arts, The Salvation Army Ray & Joan Kroc Corps Community Center in Ashland provides opportunities that bridge the gap between potential and opportunity for children and adults,” explains says Dan Lawson, PhD, Director of Community Relations and Development. “Our programs and services are focused on a holistic approach to caring for individuals, strengthening families, and enriching the lives of seniors.”
To deliver on that commitment, The Ashland Kroc Center programming and recreation teams collaborate with local instructors and coaches to provide a variety of classes and events. A small sampling of some of the new and upcoming classes is outlined below. All activities are open to both members and nonmembers alike; however, individuals and families with a Kroc Center membership do receive a discount, and all the drop-in fitness classes are included with the membership fees.
New & Upcoming Fitness Classes
Adult Self Defense: Mondays, Jan. 8 – March 25 (no class Jan. 15 & Feb. 19) | 5:30-7 p.m. | Age: 16+ | Member Cost: $40 | Non-Member Cost: $52 | Instructor: Ted Weaver | Week by week, you’ll delve into a variety of self-defense strategies, from basic blocks and strikes to effective counterattacks. Through interactive demonstrations and hands-on practice, you’ll gain proficiency in situational awareness, de-escalation tactics, and assertiveness training.
Youth Self Defense: Beginners: Thursdays, Feb. 1 to April 11 (no class April 4) | 5 to 6:30 p.m. | Age: 7 to 12 | Member Price: $40 | Non-Member Price: $52 | Intermediate: Thursdays, Feb. 1 to April 11 (no class April 4) | 6:30 to 8 p.m. | Age: 7 to 12 | Member Price: $45 | Non-Member Price: $70 | Instructor: Addison Sevin | Youth can train in ways to protect themselves using karate, arnis, kali and silat techniques with judo and hapkido throws and takedowns.
Youth Soccer Skills: Ages: 8-13: Fridays, Jan. 19, Feb. 16, March 15 & April 19 | 5 to 6 p.m. | Member Cost: Free; Non-Member Cost: $5 per person | Ages 14-18: Fridays, Jan. 26, Feb. 23, March 22 & April 26 | 5 to 6 p.m. | Non-Member Cost: $5 per person | Member Cost: Free | Instructor: Michele Lahmers | Experienced coach Michele Lahmers will guide youth through a series of exercises designed to improve kids’ control, balance, and speed on the ball. Open to beginners and seasoned players.
Buti Yoga: Tuesdays & Saturdays at 9 a.m. | Instructor: Jennifer Burdette | Buti Yoga is a soulful blend of power yoga, cardio-intensive tribal movement, conditioning, and deep abdominal toning. As a drop-in yoga class, Buti Yoga is FREE to members of the Kroc Center and is just $7 per person for non-members.
YogaFaith: Mondays at 9 a.m. & Saturdays at 8 a.m. | Instructor: Steph Beverly | Guided by an experienced instructor, you’ll learn traditional yoga poses and breathing techniques aimed at enhancing flexibility, strength, and balance in a Christian environment. As a drop-in yoga class, YogaFaith is FREE to members of the Kroc Center and is just $7 per person for non-members.
Family Fun:
“Over the Moon” Father-Daughter Dance: Saturday, Feb. 3 from 6 to 8 p.m. at the Ashland Kroc Center, featuring special guests Cinderella and Princess Jasmine. Kroc Center members are just $32 a father-daughter couple, and $5 for each additional daughter, and non-member couples are $38 and $6 for each additional daughter.
Bounce-N-Play: Fridays, Jan. 5 – April 29 | 9:30 to 11 a.m. | Age: 2 to 5 | Non-Members: $5 per child (adults are free); Kroc Members: Included with membership. | Get out of the house and enjoy some time playing in our bounce house!
Family Fun Night: First Friday of the Month: Jan. 5 & Feb. 2 from 5 to 7 p.m. | Members: Free | Non-Members: $5 per person| Bring the whole family to the Kroc Center for a night of fun! A variety of activities will be offered each month which may include laser tag, bounce houses, roller skating, giant Jenga, and seasonal crafts.
Family Roller Skating: Third Friday of the Month: Jan. 19: Glow Night & Feb. 16: Sweetheart Night (wear red or pink) | 5 to 7 p.m. | Members: Free; Non-Members: $5 per person (includes skate rental) | Gather your family and join us in our gym to practice your skating skills! Whether you have your own skates or need to borrow a pair from us, everyone is welcome to participate in this classic family activity.
To see the full offering of classes and activities at the Ashland Kroc Center now through April, please go to their website and download a copy of the 2024 Winter Program Guide. Or stop by one of the Welcome Desks during regular business hours and pick up a hardcopy.
If you have any questions or would like to register for a class, please feel free to call the Ashland Kroc Center at (419) 281-8001. For more information on membership, please see https://krocsales.usaeast.org/#/ashland.
To stay up-to-date on the latest classes and events, please follow Ashland Kroc Center on Facebook or @AshlandKroc on Instagram.
ASHLAND – Ashland County Community Foundation and The Norma Foundation are pleased to announce a new partnership that will provide additional grant opportunities for nonprofit organizations serving Ashland County.
Thanks to a generous contribution from The Norma Foundation, Ashland County Community Foundation will expand its Community Grants program with the addition of a new grant cycle starting in early 2024.
Prior to this partnership, Ashland County Community Foundation accepted Community Grant applications once each year to provide funding for programs and projects of community-wide benefit. Now, in addition to the regular fall grants, ACCF will have $150,000 available to make grants in the spring.
“We are so grateful to The Norma Foundation for trusting us with this donation, which will allow us to meet more needs and respond to more opportunities through the Community Grants program in the coming years,” said Jim Cutright, ACCF President and CEO. “Ultimately, it’s our community members who will benefit.”
Each year, Cutright said, the foundation receives dozens of worthy applications for Community Grants. The total of the dollars requested always exceeds the dollars ACCF has available.
“We also know that our fall grant cycle may not be a good fit for every program or project,” Cutright said. “If a nonprofit leader misses a deadline or develops a new idea after the application window is closed, they no longer have to wait an entire year to apply for funding.”
The inaugural spring Community Grants cycle awarded in 2024 will be smaller than the fall 2023 cycle, in which $357,342 was awarded. However, in future fiscal years, ACCF plans to shift some funding from the fall cycle to the spring, resulting in similarly-sized pools of dollars available for both cycles.
The Norma Foundation joins a list of 53 donors whose named gifts, along with smaller donations from other individuals and businesses, are pooled to make ACCF’s Community Grants possible.
While ACCF is pleased to grow its grantmaking capacity by entering into this partnership, The Norma Foundation will enjoy the benefits of ACCF’s well-structured Community Grants program.
“We know that Ashland County Community Foundation is well connected with local nonprofits and attuned to the needs of the community,” said Scott Conery, founder of The Norma Foundation. “Our trustees, including Carrie Stewart, Pat Noser and me, are confident in the Community Foundation’s ability to administer these grants with care, from application to follow-up, ensuring the dollars are put to good use.”
Both Cutright and Conery say they hope the relationship between the two foundations will continue to grow over time as both funders strive to make a positive impact in Ashland County.
Nonprofit agencies and other qualifying organizations may apply for Spring 2024 Community Grants online at www.ashlandforgood.org/grants by March 1. Community Grant requests often fall within the $10,000 to $15,000 range. Questions can be directed to Kristin Aspin, ACCF’s Chief Program Officer, at kristin@ashlandforgood.org or (419) 281-4733.
Donors who wish to contribute to the Community Grants program can donate at www.ashlandforgood/donate or contact Jim Cutright at cutty@ashlandforgood.org or (419) 281-4733 to establish a named fund for Community Grants.
About Ashland County Community Foundation: Ashland County Community Foundation advances philanthropy and improves the quality of life in Ashland County by connecting people who care with causes that matter. ACCF has awarded over $27 million in scholarships, grants and distributions.
About The Norma Foundation: The Norma Foundation is an Ashland-based, private nonprofit foundation with a business mindset that funds charitable organizations with the aim of furthering the efforts of Norma Jewell. TNF is driven to reward producers with compelling plans in need of monetary support.
According to recent updates provided by the Humane Society of Ashland County Ohio, we are pleased to report that our four-legged friend, who was tragically struck on State Route 545 on December 18, 2023, is still under the attentive care of our friends at Claremont Veterinary Clinic.
Every day, he continues to make small but significant improvements in his condition and is now able to stand on his own. However, it is important to note that the road to recovery remains long and arduous for our furry companion.
Sadly, despite our diligent efforts, no owners have come forward to claim responsibility for him. We did, however, uncover information that someone had been attempting to catch the dog a few weeks prior to the unfortunate accident.
Rest assured that they remain committed to providing this brave canine with the best possible care and are actively seeking a loving and responsible forever home once he recovers fully.
Animal Abuse Case Against Christopher Ferrell bond hearing on 1-02-2023 and the Criminal video appearance today, both by video.
Press Release from yesterday on this case
Today, Ashland County Prosecuting Attorney Christopher R. Tunnell announced that a complaint had been filed in the Ashland County Court of Common Pleas against Christopher Paul Ferrell (DOB: 01/20/1973) of Ashland. 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.
On December 30, 2023, concerned citizens approached on-duty Ashland Police Officers to advise that they had found an injured cat in a litter box that had been taped shut and thrown in a dumpster on West Main Street in the City of Ashland. The cat was alive, but severely injured.
The Ashland Police Department contacted The Cat House Feline Sanctuary, Inc., a nonprofit organization that cares for homeless cats. Laura Bailey, the Director of the organization, coordinated care with Dr. Lisa Schwan of the Spring Meadow Veterinary Clinic to provide emergency medical treatment for the animal.
It was determined that the cat was suffering from inflicted, blunt force trauma and a penetrating wound to the head believed to be from a pellet gun. It was determined that the cat was beyond care and was euthanized.
Multiple officers from the Ashland Police Department initiated an investigation. Following that investigation, Mr. Ferrell was arrested on the aforementioned charges.
During the investigation, the Ashland Police Department seized a pellet rifle, as well as several firearms. One of the seized firearms is alleged to be a “sawed off” shotgun, with a shorter length than what is allowed under Ohio law. This firearm is the basis for the possession of a dangerous ordnance count contained in the complaint.
Prosecutor Tunnell commented, “It is inconceivable to me how anyone would find it necessary to beat an animal in this manner. Out of this tragedy, however, Ashland County can take heart that the Ashland Police Department, Laura Bailey and The Cat House Feline Sanctuary, and Veterinarians like Doctor Schwan stand ready to help without hesitation.”
“This is yet another example of the success that can be found when law enforcement and citizens cooperate. Many thanks are due those who participated in the investigation of this case.” Tunnell added, “The Cat House Feline Sanctuary is a non- profit organization and has told me they are responsible for some of the costs associated with the veterinary care of this animal. The public can donate to The Cat House Feline Sanctuary, Inc. online by going to catsanctuaryashland.org or mailing donations to The Cat House Feline Sanctuary at 1130 E. Main St. #136, Ashland, Ohio 44805.”
Bond was set this afternoon by the Common Pleas Court at $25,000 cash or surety. Additionally, if bond is posted, Ferrell will not be allowed to possess any animals or weapons including air rifles in addition to other conditions. The case will be called on January 3 at 2:30pm for an initial appearance before the Common Pleas Court.
Prosecutor Tunnell stressed that the complaint contains allegations that will need to be proven beyond a reasonable doubt. Christopher Ferrell and all persons charged with crimes are innocent until proven guilty.
Ashland County Dog Warden Joe Eggerton just posted the following:
Anyone out there in the vicinity of County Road’s 500 & 175, West Salem, missing this very sweet but scared young female Golden Retriever? She was picked up after receiving a call, stating that there was a Golden that was hit, curled up laying in the tall weed’s by a creek… possibly dead.
After locating the dog, we noticed the beautiful little girl was hit by a car & desperately in need of medical help. We rushed this poor little girl to Claremont Veterinary Clinic, where she was evaluated, given some shot’s for infection & some pain meds to keep her comfortable. She was immediately transferred to Northview Animal Hospital in Grafton. Currently she has been named “Sandy” by staff to have a name to be referenced by.
If anyone knows where this sweet baby girl belongs, or if you may know who this girls owner is, please message this post, or call the Ashland County Dog Shelter @ (419)-289-1455 with any information, immediately. In addition it is imperative for this girls owner to contact our medical rep from No Pawz Left Behind, Stephanie Krueger @ (419)-651-4516, as she needs the owner to call her because there are many medical decisions going to need to be made regarding this poor baby’s health!
Please send loving prayers for this precious little lady who was hit by a car and left for dead, down an embankment, next to a stream. When we left the vet, she was stable and being loaded for transport to Grafton!
Today, Ashland County Prosecuting Attorney Christopher R. Tunnell announced that a complaint had been filed in the Ashland County Court of Common Pleas against Christopher Paul Ferrell (DOB: 01/20/1973) of Ashland. 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.
On December 30, 2023, concerned citizens approached on-duty Ashland Police Officers to advise that they had found an injured cat in a litter box that had been taped shut and thrown in a dumpster on West Main Street in the City of Ashland. The cat was alive, but severely injured.
The Ashland Police Department contacted The Cat House Feline Sanctuary, Inc., a nonprofit organization that cares for homeless cats. Laura Bailey, the Director of the organization, coordinated care with Dr. Lisa Schwan of the Spring Meadow Veterinary Clinic to provide emergency medical treatment for the animal.
It was determined that the cat was suffering from inflicted, blunt force trauma and a penetrating wound to the head believed to be from a pellet gun. It was determined that the cat was beyond care and was euthanized.
Multiple officers from the Ashland Police Department initiated an investigation. Following that investigation, Mr. Ferrell was arrested on the aforementioned charges.
During the investigation, the Ashland Police Department seized a pellet rifle, as well as several firearms. One of the seized firearms is alleged to be a “sawed off” shotgun, with a shorter length than what is allowed under Ohio law. This firearm is the basis for the possession of a dangerous ordnance count contained in the complaint.
Prosecutor Tunnell commented, “It is inconceivable to me how anyone would find it necessary to beat an animal in this manner. Out of this tragedy, however, Ashland County can take heart that the Ashland Police Department, Laura Bailey and The Cat House Feline Sanctuary, and Veterinarians like Doctor Schwan stand ready to help without hesitation.”
“This is yet another example of the success that can be found when law enforcement and citizens cooperate. Many thanks are due those who participated in the investigation of this case.” Tunnell added, “The Cat House Feline Sanctuary is a non- profit organization and has told me they are responsible for some of the costs associated with the veterinary care of this animal. The public can donate to The Cat House Feline Sanctuary, Inc. online by going to catsanctuaryashland.org or mailing donations to The Cat House Feline Sanctuary at 1130 E. Main St. #136, Ashland, Ohio 44805.”
Bond was set this afternoon by the Common Pleas Court at $25,000 cash or surety. Additionally, if bond is posted, Ferrell will not be allowed to possess any animals or weapons including air rifles in addition to other conditions. The case will be called on January 3 at 2:30pm for an initial appearance before the Common Pleas Court.
Prosecutor Tunnell stressed that the complaint contains allegations that will need to be proven beyond a reasonable doubt. Christopher Ferrell and all persons charged with crimes are innocent until proven guilty.
The Northern Ohio Violent Fugitive Task Force is offering a reward for information which would lead to the capture of fugitive Calvin Brooks. Brooks is wanted U.S. Marshals Service and the Richland County Sheriff’s Office for a probation violation on the original charge of burglary F1. Brooks, 45, is described as a black male with black hair and brown eyes, standing 5 feet 8 inches tall. Brooks has ties to the city of Mansfield.
Calvin Brooks
The Northern Ohio Violent Fugitive Task Force is offering a reward for information which would lead to the capture of fugitive Trenton Schoenman. Schoenman is wanted U.S. Marshals Service and the Richland County Sheriff’s Office for a probation violation on the original charge of weapons under disability, aggravated possession of drugs, and tampering with evidence. Schoenman, 23, is described as a black male with brown hair and brown eyes, standing 5 feet 10 inches tall. Schoenman has ties to the cities of Mansfield and Wooster Ohio.
Trenton Schoenman
The Northern Ohio Violent Fugitive Task Force is offering a reward for information which would lead to the capture of fugitive Mario Jester. Jester is wanted U.S. Marshals Service and the Adult Parole Authority for a probation violation on the original charge of aggravated robbery F1. Jester, 54, is described as a black male with brown hair and brown eyes, standing 5 feet 6 inches tall. Jester has ties to the city of Mansfield.
Mario Jester
The Northern Ohio Violent Fugitive Task Force is offering a reward for information which would lead to the capture of fugitive Damir Swann. Swann is wanted U.S. Marshals Service and the Richland County Sheriff’s Office for possession of cocaine and possession of fentanyl related compound F1. Swann, 28, is described as a black male with black hair and brown eyes, standing 5 feet, 7 inches tall. Swann has ties to the cities of Detroit MI and Mansfield.
Damir Swann
If you have any information in reference to Rafael Martinez, Trenton Schoenman, David Greene, or Brian Mays, please contact the Northern Ohio Violent Fugitive Task Force at 1-866-4WANTED or Text keyword WANTED and tip to 847411 (tip411). Tipsters can remain anonymous and reward money is available.
COLUMBUS – The Ohio State Highway Patrol is reporting six fatal crashes resulting in seven fatalities on Ohio’s roadways during the 2023-2024 New Year’s holiday according to provisional statistics. Of the seven fatalities, five of those killed were not wearing an available safety belt.
The four-day reporting period began at midnight on Friday, December 29, 2023, and ran through 11:59 p.m. on Monday, January 1, 2024. This is a decrease from the four-day reporting period last year when 13 fatalities were reported.
Troopers made 3,259 traffic enforcement contacts; including 272 OVI arrests, 106 distracted driving and 409 safety belt citations.
The public is encouraged to continue using #677 to report dangerous or impaired drivers, as well as drug activity. A statistical analysis of the Patrol’s enforcement activity over the holiday is available here.
Joe Lyons •
January 5, 2024
ASHLAND, Ohio – Whether your New Year’s resolution is to get fit, learn a new skill, tap into your creative side, help your kiddos develop their talents, spend more time together as a family, or throw the best birthday party or bridal/baby shower for your loved-one, The Salvation Army Ray & Joan Kroc Corps Community Center in Ashland is ready to help you achieve your goals in 2024.
Family Fun:
ASHLAND – Ashland County Community Foundation and The Norma Foundation are pleased to announce a new partnership that will provide additional grant opportunities for nonprofit organizations serving Ashland County.
The Northern Ohio Violent Fugitive Task Force is offering a reward for information which would lead to the capture of fugitive Calvin Brooks. Brooks is wanted U.S. Marshals Service and the Richland County Sheriff’s Office for a probation violation on the original charge of burglary F1. Brooks, 45, is described as a black male with black hair and brown eyes, standing 5 feet 8 inches tall. Brooks has ties to the city of Mansfield.
The Northern Ohio Violent Fugitive Task Force is offering a reward for information which would lead to the capture of fugitive Trenton Schoenman. Schoenman is wanted U.S. Marshals Service and the Richland County Sheriff’s Office for a probation violation on the original charge of weapons under disability, aggravated possession of drugs, and tampering with evidence. Schoenman, 23, is described as a black male with brown hair and brown eyes, standing 5 feet 10 inches tall. Schoenman has ties to the cities of Mansfield and Wooster Ohio.
The Northern Ohio Violent Fugitive Task Force is offering a reward for information which would lead to the capture of fugitive Mario Jester. Jester is wanted U.S. Marshals Service and the Adult Parole Authority for a probation violation on the original charge of aggravated robbery F1. Jester, 54, is described as a black male with brown hair and brown eyes, standing 5 feet 6 inches tall. Jester has ties to the city of Mansfield.
The Northern Ohio Violent Fugitive Task Force is offering a reward for information which would lead to the capture of fugitive Damir Swann. Swann is wanted U.S. Marshals Service and the Richland County Sheriff’s Office for possession of cocaine and possession of fentanyl related compound F1. Swann, 28, is described as a black male with black hair and brown eyes, standing 5 feet, 7 inches tall. Swann has ties to the cities of Detroit MI and Mansfield.
COLUMBUS – The Ohio State Highway Patrol is reporting six fatal crashes resulting in seven fatalities on Ohio’s roadways during the 2023-2024 New Year’s holiday according to provisional statistics. Of the seven fatalities, five of those killed were not wearing an available safety belt.
