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.
On January 1, 2024, at approximately 07:53 hours, the Willard Police Department responded to a shooting call in the 600 block of Fink Street. The female caller advised she had been shot in the leg. The male shooter had left the area on foot and was still armed. The female was transported by Willard Fire and EMS to Willard Mercy. Her condition is currently unknown.
At approximately 08:24 hours, the Willard Police Department received information that the male subject was at a relative’s residence in the 200 block of South West Avenue. Members of the Willard Police Department, Huron County Sheriff’s Office, and the Ohio State Highway Patrol set up a perimeter around the residence. Several family members left the home, but the male subject remained inside.
Officers were able to maintain communication with the male subject. At approximately 10:50 hours, the male subject surrendered peacefully.
The male subject was transported to the Huron County Jail pending formal charges. The Ohio Attorney General’s Office was contacted and BC] arrived to gather evidence at the scene.
The Willard Police Department would like to thank the Huron County Sheriff’s Office, Ohio State Highway Patrol, Ohio Attorney General’s Office, BCI, Willard Fire and EMS, Plymouth Fire and EMS, and the public for their assistance.
The Willard Police Department is still investigating the circumstances that led to the shooting.
Joe Lyons •
January 3, 2024
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.
On January 1, 2024, at approximately 07:53 hours, the Willard Police Department responded to a shooting call in the 600 block of Fink Street. The female caller advised she had been shot in the leg. The male shooter had left the area on foot and was still armed. The female was transported by Willard Fire and EMS to Willard Mercy. Her condition is currently unknown.