For over a century, audiences have delighted in the music, dance, and drama that is The Nutcracker. This year marks the 32nd annual presentation of the beloved holiday tradition performed by Ashland Regional Ballet (ARB). The dancers will take the stage at Ashland’s Archer Auditorium, on the campus of Ashland High School, on Saturday, December 16th at 2:00pm & 7:30pm; and Sunday, December 17th at 2:00pm. Tickets are available at ashlandregionalballet.com/ticket-information.
The full cast boasts 104 dancers from the Ashland/Mansfield area and surrounding counties. Principal roles will be danced by members of Ashland Regional Ballet with the role of Clara being portrayed by Megan Harrigan of Ashland. Guest dancer, Lex Zorich, will dance the role of Clara’s Nutcracker Prince. Professional dancers, Christina Lindhout and Brian Murphy will reprise their roles as the Sugar Plum Fairy and Cavalier.
Ashland Regional Ballet members in other principal roles are Adley Grabowski as Snow Queen, Skylynn Heichel and Sami Crist as Tea duet, and Adra Herod as Trepak. Tara Tavallaee will perform the role of Flower Queen with Lyla Metzger and Lucy Ronk as her Flower Attendants.
Valerie Raubenolt will take on the role of Spanish, Audrey Smith as Arabian, and Teagan Kime will portray the Candy Cane Queen.
Other ARB company members to appear include Sami Crist, Mary Hamilton, Asher Robbins, Jordyn Thomas, Madelyn Shenberger, and ARB alumna Mikayla Jarvis.
Theatre professional, Jeff Haffner will rejoin the cast this year as Herr Drosselmeyer while Dr. Bruce Sliney and ARB alumna, Jackie Zorich, will return to their roles as Dr. and Mrs. Stahlbaum, with Asher Robbins of Ashland as Fritz. Opus II Dance Studio Director, Ann Marie Benshoff-Todd, will portray Nanny and Artistic Director, Sarah Cyders, will appear as Grandma Stahlbaum. Dr. John Moser of Ashland will narrate the beloved ballet and ARB Alumni Mark Koehler will portray The Rat King. Sydney Box and Alyssa Obertanec will reprise their roles as adults in the Party scene.
In addition to the wonderful dancing by Ashland Regional Ballet company members, the production is supported by an exceptionally strong cast comprised of Opus II Dance Studio students who bring excitement and energy to this timeless classic.
The production features original choreography by ARB Founder/Executive Director Hellie Schussler, staged by Sarah Cyders and Ann Marie Benshoff-Todd. Lighting design is by Don Pontious and set design by Robbie Keplar. Costumes by Margaret Minick-Blake, Kepler, Loree Ronk, and Donna Benshoff.
Founder and Executive Director, Hellie Schussler notes, “Each Nutcracker season brings new joys and challenges. In 1992, on the 100th anniversary of Tchaikovsky’s holiday favorite, ARB presented its first production of the full-length ballet and has performed it annually ever since. It seems impossible that we are now celebrating our 32nd Nutcracker season. The Nutcracker has become a tradition for our dancers, as well as for many families in our area. We look forward to seeing new faces in the time-honored and familiar roles, as well as the joy of watching our artists grow from year to year in roles they have come to love. This production of The Nutcracker feels like coming home for Christmas. We invite you to come home to the Ashland Regional Ballet Nutcracker.”
Photo credit – Deb Chandler
When I was nineteen, newly married, first time confronted with bills and living away from home, I needed to learn a lot about connection, closeness, and safety, and something inside whispered “a dog-you need a dog.” Fortunately, I was lucky enough to listen.
Rusty was one of many that have been with me in my seventy-five years of living. My dogs have taught me that they have their own unique loving way of teaching me, that in times of crisis, in times of celebration, in times of daily life… we are not alone. A wag of a tail, a lick, and a hug are some of the ways my pups have expressed their love. Every day my pups tell me, ‘I adore you.’
Photo credit – Deb Chandler
Dogs bring people together. As I walk up the street with one or all three dogs, I see smiles on the faces of people passing by or driving to work. Next, we come to all ages of children waiting for the buses and believe it or not, they put their cells phones down and drop to the sidewalk to snuggle with the pups.
Should you consider adopting a dog or getting a pup from a breeder, these are the lessons you will learn from your new pup:
1. Talk or woof less and listen more.
2. Don’t waste time worrying about what doesn’t matter.
3. Let Grandpa ramble on about his younger days.
4. If you are sick—go to bed.
5. Cherish every moment.
6. Kiss when you feel like it.
7. Forgive when you don’t feel like it.
8. Laugh and hug.
9. Marvel at what the world looks like through the eyes of some of
God’s most loving creatures.
Blessings and Merry Christmas,
Dianne Hammontree, Secretary of Homeward Bound, Inc.
Well, recreational marijuana is now legal in Ohio, so today is stoners’ early Christmas present, I guess. It’s a free-for-all and a big win for Ohio! (Reads in Sarcastic Tone)
Cleveland Mayor Justin M. Bibb even issued a press release, announcing that the city has revamped its Drug and Alcohol Testing policy to eliminate outdated language that hindered hiring efforts, specifically regarding pre-employment marijuana testing.
Mayor Bibb expressed his support for the legalization, acknowledging the detrimental effects that criminalization had on education, housing, and employment. With Ohioans having made their voices heard loud and clear last month through their approval of Issue 2, the state is now on a path towards leaving the punitive effects of marijuana criminalization behind. Cleveland’s updated policies are another step towards marijuana reform and improving their HR practices.
However, even though adults aged 21 and older can now legally possess up to 2.5 ounces of cannabis and 15 grams of extracts or edibles, buying marijuana in Ohio won’t be possible just yet. Legal sales will likely not begin until late next summer or fall once lawmakers and Governor DeWine approve the sale of recreational marijuana at medical dispensaries.
The Division of Cannabis Control will need time to establish rules on licensing, product standards, packaging, and more. Additionally, marijuana growers, processors, and dispensaries must wait for license applications to be made available within the next six months.
The state then has nine months to issue the first round of licenses, which will prioritize existing medical marijuana businesses and eligible operators under the social equity program.
On the bright side, individuals in Ohio can now grow their own marijuana.
The law allows adults to individually grow up to six plants, with a maximum of 12 plants in a household with multiple adults, as long as the cultivation takes place in a secure and enclosed space. However, landlords have the right to prohibit tenants from growing marijuana if they include the ban in the lease agreement.
It’s important to note that despite the legalization, driving under the influence of marijuana is still strictly prohibited. Whether you’re behind the wheel of a car, on a bike, boat, or airplane, the law stands firm – no high driving. Passengers are also barred from smoking or vaping in the vehicle.
So while Ohio celebrates its newfound marijuana freedom, it’s essential to remain mindful of the rules and the potential consequences of breaking them.
In a recent development, Aaron Shirey of Ashland County, Ohio, has been arrested on a three-count indictment. The charges include disseminating matter harmful to juveniles, importuning, and interference with custody.
Count One: Disseminating Matter Harmful to Juveniles
In the first count of the indictment, Aaron Shirey has been charged with disseminating matter harmful to juveniles. This is considered a felony of the fifth degree. The charges state that between June 11, 2023, and June 14, 2023, in Ashland County, Ohio, Aaron Shirey recklessly sold, delivered, or provided obscene material to a juvenile named “Jane Doe.” The material in question was knowingly distributed by Aaron Shirey, despite its harmful nature.
Count Two: Importuning
The second count of the indictment accuses Aaron Shirey of importuning, another felony of the fifth degree. According to the charges, between June 11, 2023, and June 14, 2023, Aaron Shirey solicited “Jane Doe,” a juvenile, to engage in sexual conduct. As per Ohio Revised Code, Aaron Shirey was over eighteen years of age and four or more years older than “Jane Doe” at the time of the offense. The victim was a minor between the ages of sixteen and seventeen, making Aaron Shirey’s actions a violation of section 2905.32.
Count Three: Interference with Custody
The third count on the indictment alleges Aaron Shirey’s involvement in interference with custody. This offense is classified as a misdemeanor of the first degree. It is stated that between June 11, 2023, and June 14, 2023, Aaron Shirey knowingly enticed, took, kept, or harbored a child under the age of eighteen without the privilege to do so. The child in question, “Jane Doe,” was born in, 2006 Aaron Shirey’s actions constituted a violation of Ohio Revised Code.
Conditions of Bond
Aaron Shirey’s release on bond is subject to the following conditions:
A bail bond secured by a deposit of ten percent of the bond amount in cash, which totals $20,000. Upon compliance with all bond conditions, ninety percent of the deposit will be returned.
Alternatively, a surety bond secured by real estate or securities, or the deposit of cash in the sum of $20,000.
A written permission from the Court is required for Aaron Shirey to leave the State of Ohio.
A strict prohibition on the use, consumption, or possession of any drugs or alcohol. Aaron Shirey will be subject to random testing at his own expense.
The use of medical marijuana or any product containing THC is prohibited during the period of bond.
Aaron Shirey will be subject to passive monitoring through Global Positioning Satellite Tracking (GPS). Compliance with all terms and conditions associated with the assigned GPS device is mandatory.
Aaron Shirey must not have any direct or indirect contact with “Jane Doe.”
Unsupervised contact with unrelated minors is strictly prohibited for Aaron Shirey.
Video Arraignment
Aaron Shirey’s arraignment is scheduled for a video hearing on 12/12/2023 at 11:00 AM. This hearing will take place via Zoom.
Let this serve as a reminder that safeguarding our children is of utmost importance. It is essential for parents, guardians, and community members to be vigilant and report any suspicious activities that may pose a threat to juveniles’ well-being. Together, we can create a safer environment for our children.
In a beautiful display of kindness and generosity, the Ashland County Dog Shelter recently received a heartwarming surprise.
The Simonson Construction group in Ashland stepped forward to show their love for our furry friends, presenting a check to Dog Warden Joe Eggerton for a whopping $3,000.
It’s hard to express just how grateful everyone at the shelter feels for this amazing gesture. On behalf of Ashland County Dog Warden Joe Eggerton, the tireless shelter staff, the dedicated volunteers, and, of course, our beloved shelter fur-babies, we extend our heartfelt thanks to the incredible team at Simonson Construction.
This phenomenal organization has not only opened their hearts but also helped make this Christmas season special for our furry companions.
To the staff at Simonson Construction, we cannot express our gratitude enough. Your generosity and thoughtfulness have truly touched our souls. May this holiday season bring you all the blessings and joy that you have bestowed upon us at the Ashland County Dog Shelter.
Ashland – As part of the Patrol’s ongoing efforts to make Ohio roadways safer, troopers continue to focus on impaired driving this month and throughout the holiday season.
“The holidays are a special time of great joy, and I encourage all drivers to contribute to the happiness of the season by choosing to drive responsibly,” said Governor DeWine. “The Ohio State Highway Patrol will be patrolling our roadways to intercept those who choose to risk their own lives and the lives of others by driving impaired.”
Since 2019, there have been 60,926 impaired driving-related crashes, killing 3,225 people, accounting for 53 percent of all fatal crashes on Ohio roadways. Additionally, during the same time period, more than 37,000 others were injured in OVI-related crashes. Franklin (6,647), Cuyahoga (5,227), Hamilton (4,521) and Montgomery (2,918) counties accounted for nearly one out of every three OVI-related crashes in Ohio.
“Telling family or friends that their loved one is not coming home is one of the hardest things our troopers have to do, especially around the holidays,” said Colonel Charles A. Jones, Patrol superintendent. “When you plan ahead and make responsible decisions, such as driving sober, you are helping us make this a safe holiday season.”
Troopers have issued more than 86,000 OVI-related citations since 2019, with nearly one in four citations involving a motorist impaired by one or more drugs.
The public is encouraged to call #677 to report reckless or impaired drivers and drug activity.
A statistical map containing OVI-related crash and citation information can be found here and additional OVI-related enforcement and educational information can be found on the Patrol’s Ohio Statistics and Analytics for Traffic Safety (OSTATS) OVI Dashboard.
On Sunday, December 3, 2023, shortly after 3:00 p.m., officers from the Ashland Police Division conducted a traffic stop on a vehicle in the area of Cottage Street and Vine Street for failing to use a turn signal.
As the investigation progressed, officers recovered containers of suspected gunpowder, cannon fuse, and handcrafted fireworks. The Ashland County Sheriffs Office Bomb Squad responded and rendered the items safe.
Officers also recovered a firearm and suspected methamphetamine during the traffic stop.
On 12/06/2023, Kaden M. Arangelovich, 20, of Ashland, was charged with Aggravated Possession of Drugs, Tampering with Evidence and Probation Violation. Also charged as a result of the investigation is Jamey J. Conner, 43, of Ashland, with Unlicensed Fireworks Manufacturing and Possession of Criminal Tools.
In a recent development, on 11/17/2023, a Sub-rosa Indictment was filed in the Ashland County Common Pleas Court against 54-year-old Jon Erik Konves from Lexington, Ohio. (Previously of Loudonville, Ohio.) This indictment, which was investigated by the Loudonville Police Department, sheds light on a disturbing case involving obscenity and the exploitation of a minor.
Investigation and Charges
Jon Erik Konves
The investigation conducted by the Loudonville Police Department was no small feat. The Police Department, alongside the Ohio Bureau of Criminal Investigation and the Ashland County Prosecutor’s Office, dedicated significant time and resources to seeking justice in this matter. Their diligent efforts are commendable.
Jon Erik Konves has been indicted on a total of 12 counts, with 11 being fourth-degree felonies of Pandering Obscenity Involving a Minor or Impaired Person, as well as one count of Possessing Criminal Tools, a fifth-degree felony. The description of the photos in the indictment is deeply unsettling, painting a grim picture of the offenses.
Charges Description
The 11 counts against Jon Erik Konves read as follows: “In that on or about March 1, 2020 through April 20, 2020, in Ashland County, Ohio, Jon Erik Konves, did, with knowledge of the character of the material or performance involved, buy, procure, possess, or control obscene material that has a minor as one of its participants, in violation of Ohio Revised Code.” These charges highlight the alleged involvement of Jon Erik Konves in the procurement and possession of explicit material involving a minor.
The twelfth count states: “In that on or about March 1, 2020 through April 20, 2020, in Ashland County, Ohio, Jon Erik Konves, did possess or have under the person’s control any substance, device, instrument, or article, to wit: one (1) Microsoft Studio computer with purpose to use it criminally, in violation of Ohio Revised Code.” Furthermore, it is stated that the circumstances indicate the intent to use the substance, device, instrument, or article in the commission of a felony, specifically Pandering Obscenity Involving a Minor or Impaired Person, as per ORC Sections 2907.321 and 2907.321 (C).
The indictment describes the presence of over 400 images depicting minors engaged in sexual activity, as well as photos described as showing a juvenile engaging in fellatio. Shockingly, at least one image depicts an adult’s genitals on an infant child’s nude buttocks.
Seeking Justice
Cases involving obscenity and the exploitation of minors are heinous crimes that deserve the full weight of justice. The Ashland County Common Pleas Court, along with the dedicated law enforcement agencies involved, aims to ensure that the perpetrator, Jon Erik Konves, faces the consequences of his alleged actions.
As the legal process unfolds, it is essential to recognize and appreciate the efforts of the law enforcement personnel, the Ohio Bureau of Criminal Investigation, and the Ashland County Prosecutor’s Office. Their collaborative work reflects their commitment to seeking justice for the victim and holding the accused accountable for his actions.
The Sub-rosa Indictment filed in the Ashland County Common Pleas Court against Jon Erik Konves has exposed disturbing allegations of obscenity involving a minor. This case serves as a reminder of the importance of safeguarding the well-being and protection of our vulnerable youth. It is essential to support the diligent efforts of law enforcement agencies and the judicial system as they work towards justice and holding offenders accountable.
As this case progresses through the legal system, the hope remains that justice will be served, and the victims will find solace and healing. Let us stand united against such heinous crimes and continue to work towards creating a safer environment for our communities.
An indictment merely contains allegations, and defendants are presumed innocent unless proven guilty in a court of law.
ASHLAND, Ohio – The Ashland University Symphonic Band and Ashland Area Community Concert Band are teaming up for their annual Winter Festival Band Concert, which will take place Friday, Dec. 8, at 7:30 p.m., at Hugo Young Theatre in the Center for the Arts. The concert is free and open to the public.
Each band will perform four-to-six pieces, conducted by Joseph Lewis Jr., director of bands at Ashland University.
The AU Symphonic Band, consisting of about 60 students from Ohio and across the U.S., features a high level of artistry and musicianship while performing a variety of literature. On the docket for Friday night are “Scarborough Fair,” a 1989 arrangement of a traditional English folk tune, “Piano Prelude No. 2” by legendary American composer George Gershwin and “Mephisto Masque (Polka Fantastique),” written by New Orleans native Edmond Dede who worked as a conductor and composer in France for nearly 40 years. The performance will also include a holiday medley in “Russian Christmas Music” by Alfred Reed.
The Ashland Area Community Concert Band, founded in 1993, is an ensemble that includes both university students and members of the community and performs a wide variety of literature from Broadway selections and classic marches to masterworks transcribed for concert band. Friday’s concert selections include “Overture for Winds,” “O Magnum Mysterium,” which depicts the birth of Jesus Christ, “Songs of Earth, Water, Fire, and Sky,” a symphonic work that examines the lives of Native Americans, “A Home Alone for Christmas,” featuring themes from the classic holiday comedy, “Sleigh Ride” and “Orange Bowl March,” a toe-tapping march by Henry Fillmore.
For more information, please contact Joseph Lewis Jr. at jlewisjr@ashland.edu or 419-289-5132.
Well, what do we have here? The pursuit of the elusive White Mercedes came to a screeching halt at the 187 mile marker of the northbound lane of I-71.
Now, this chase wasn’t exactly your typical Hollywood-style extravaganza, but it still had its fair share of drama. You see, the trouble started when a Ohio Highway Patrol Trooper spotted the White Mercedes zooming down the road at an eye-watering 98mph.
Sensing danger, the trooper promptly activated his flashing lights, expecting the culprit to gracefully yield. But, oh no, this White Mercedes had other plans. It refused to pull over, sending the trooper on a wild goose chase.
Now, brace yourself for a plot twist: she…yes, she…eventually pulled over before hitting the spike strips.
My apologies, in my live video, I stated that the Mercedes hit spike strips, that my friends was where I must have misunderstood the situation. It turns out that they did have spike strips out at the 190 mile marker, but the pursuit ended before they could be deployed.
Oh, and here’s where the confusion sets in: it seems our speeding street racer is a Chinese nationalist, and as the legend goes, over there, the police tend to get beside you or even in front of you to pull you over.
So, it appears this was all just a big misunderstanding.
Nevertheless, this Chinese nationalist will still have to face the consequences, with a nice mandatory appearance for the much-dreaded speeding ticket.
It looks like Judge John L. Good of the Ashland Municipal Court will have the delightful task of untangling this little web of confusion. Let’s see how he handles this unexpected international twist in our pursuit story.
Joe Lyons •
December 9, 2023
Photo credit – Deb Chandler
Well, recreational marijuana is now legal in Ohio, so today is stoners’ early Christmas present, I guess. It’s a free-for-all and a big win for Ohio! (Reads in Sarcastic Tone)
In a recent development, Aaron Shirey of Ashland County, Ohio, has been arrested on a three-count indictment. The charges include disseminating matter harmful to juveniles, importuning, and interference with custody.
In a beautiful display of kindness and generosity, the Ashland County Dog Shelter recently received a heartwarming surprise.
Ashland – As part of the Patrol’s ongoing efforts to make Ohio roadways safer, troopers continue to focus on impaired driving this month and throughout the holiday season.
In a recent development, on 11/17/2023, a Sub-rosa Indictment was filed in the Ashland County Common Pleas Court against 54-year-old Jon Erik Konves from Lexington, Ohio. (Previously of Loudonville, Ohio.) This indictment, which was investigated by the Loudonville Police Department, sheds light on a disturbing case involving obscenity and the exploitation of a minor.
