Hey there, folks! Guess what time it is? Yup, it’s that time of year again when the Ashland Fire Department’s Red Helmet Christmas Charities is revving up for action!
Get ready to spread some holiday cheer because they are hosting a fantastic toy drive at Foundation Plaza on Saturday, November 25th, from 9 am to noon. Not only is the Ashland Fire Department accepting new (unwrapped) toys, but they are also happy to take your cold, hard cash donations too.
These amazing gifts will find their way to the Associated Charities, the Ashland County Food Bank, and The Ashland Kroc Center, where they will be distributed to families in need right here in Ashland County.
And that’s not all, my festive friends!
The Ashland Firefighters themselves will be on the scene, serving up scrumptious hot chocolate and dishing out candy canes to sweeten the deal.
So, mark your calendars, gather up your generosity, and join in the spirit of giving. Let’s make this holiday season truly magical for those who need it most!
In a remarkable demonstration of dedication and compassion, the Ashland Police Division Officers, Ashland Fire Department, and EMS came together to assist an 80-year old woman involved in a single vehicle accident at Aldi’s this morning.
Although it was a minor injury crash, there was something truly noteworthy that caught my attention as I was leaving the scene.
I witnessed two Officers from the Ashland Police Division, along with members of the Ashland Fire Department and the Auer Towing driver, going the extra mile by retrieving groceries from the lady’s trunk and placing them in the ambulance.
Their empathy and thoughtfulness didn’t stop there.
Not only did the EMS crew accompany her home, ensuring her safety along the way, but I later learned from scanner reports that EMS even reached out to an Officer to search for her lost cane. Promptly, the Officer located the cane and personally delivered it to the woman’s home.
This exceptional level of care and attention demonstrated by these first responders deserves our gratitude and appreciation.
Their willingness to go above and beyond their duties is truly commendable, and I simply wanted to take a moment to express my thanks to all those who were involved in providing such exceptional assistance today.
The Mansfield Police Department made a shocking discovery on Sunday, November 5th, at North Lake Park, when they stumbled upon a decomposed body while responding to another call.
After a preliminary investigation, the remains were identified as belonging to Shealeah Lachelle Staley, an Ashland woman who had been reported missing since August 31st.
The body was found deep within the woods of the park. This finding triggered the involvement of the Richland County Coroner’s Office and Mercyhurst University’s Forensic Anthropology Team, known for their expertise in meticulously processing crime scenes.
While there does not appear to be any foul play involved, it is crucial for investigators to piece together the puzzle of Staley’s death, and shed light on the circumstances surrounding her disappearance.
This tragic incident serves as a reminder of the invaluable role that professional agencies play in bringing closure to unfortunate events, while also extending compassion and support to those affected.
Back in October, I shared a Facebook post about Staley’s disappearance, after a request from Sara Mae to share the post, highlighting the urgency to find her. Thanks to all who shared the post.
God certainly knew what He was doing when He created the changing seasons. I guess it’s the same for me. The seasons in my life change as I age, but they all work together for good. My children are grown and married and have given me beautiful grandchildren. December is, and has always been, a time of reflection for me…remembering the past seventy-five years and the people and dogs that have part of my life. I recall some of the dogs from my childhood to the present in this way:
Jet=Kindness
I learned so much by watching the way she rejoiced in life’s simplest moments. Every morning was Christmas morning. Every run was the best run. Every dinner was the best dinner. Jet taught me to be kind to others.
Rusty=Patience
I adopted Rusty when I was nineteen, working full time, was a first time renter and first time human with a dog. Rusty didn’t get the attention he needed, so training was quite a chore, but he loved me anyway and taught me patience.
Jesse=self control
Jesse taught me to wait to control my thoughts and emotions. She would snuggle up to me and say, “This is only a moment, it is not the rest of your life,” and I would immediately calm down, breathe, and tackle the problem.
This year, I’ve decided to make the biggest strides at Christmas and focus on others: humans and animals. I want to be grateful for the profound yet simple things. It’s impossible to dwell on my problems when serving coffee to a woman whose child is fighting cancer. Or when visiting a lonely gentleman in a nursing home. Or when a little girl tugs on your shirt and wants you to take time to see the drawing she made for her mommy. Or when you find a lost pup, give him a bath, a meal and then try to find his owner.
Christmas is truly a season of miracles. I pray that we all practice what Jet, Rusty and Jesse taught me; that portraying kindness, patience and self control will let us focus on others in the coming year.
Blessing, and Happy Thanksgiving, and Merry Christmas!
Dianne Hammontree, Secretary of Homeward Bound, Inc.
Veterans Day originated as “Armistice Day” on November 11, 1919, to commemorate the end of World War I. Over the years, this day has evolved to honor all those who have selflessly served their country in times of war and peace. Congress passed a resolution in 1926, making it an annual observance, and in 1938, it became a national holiday. In 1954, the name was changed to Veterans Day to honor veterans from all wars. Today, this day holds great significance as the nation comes together to show gratitude and respect for the brave men and women who have defended our country.
In the United States in 2022, there are approximately 16.2 million military veterans. This accounts for 6.2% of the total civilian population aged 18 and over. Among these veterans, 1.7 million are women, making up 10.3% of the total veteran population. The diversity among veterans is notable, with various racial and ethnic backgrounds represented.
When we consider the history of veterans, it is important to acknowledge the different wars they have served in. While only 0.8% of veterans in 2022 served in World War II, 4.1% served in the Korean War, 33.6% in the Vietnam War, 24.4% in the first Gulf War, and 26.3% in the second Gulf War. These numbers highlight the sacrifices made by veterans across generations and the range of experiences they have encountered in service to their country.
The veteran population in 2022 is characterized by its diversity. Among veterans, 8.6% identify as Hispanic or Latino. The majority of veterans, 72.3%, identify as White alone (not Hispanic or Latino). African Americans make up 12.4% of the veteran population, while Asian Americans account for 2.1%. Additionally, 0.8% are American Indian or Alaska Native, and 0.2% identify as Native Hawaiian or Other Pacific Islander. It is worth noting that these percentages only include those who have reported a single race.
In 2022, the age distribution among veterans is varied. Veterans aged 75 and older make up 26.5% of the population, demonstrating the wisdom and experience they bring from decades of service. In contrast, 8.5% of veterans are younger than 35 years old, representing a new generation of heroes stepping forward to protect and serve their country.
On Veterans Day, our nation comes together to honor and show gratitude to those who have served. Parades and ceremonies take place across the country, paying tribute to the bravery and sacrifices made by military veterans. One powerful example of this recognition is the ceremony held at the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier at Arlington National Cemetery in Virginia. This solemn and moving event serves as a reminder of the dedication and unknown sacrifices made by countless individuals in service to our nation.
Veterans Day is a time for us to reflect on the significant contributions made by veterans. From World War II to the present day, these brave individuals have defended our country and protected our freedoms. As we observe Veterans Day, let us honor their dedication, bravery, and selflessness. Let us express our gratitude for their service and work towards creating a society that supports and uplifts our veterans. Together, we can ensure that their sacrifices are never forgotten.
Well, well, well, it looks like the time has come for that delightful little tradition known as “fall back.”
That’s right, folks, grab your comfiest pajamas and get ready to indulge in an extra hour of precious, glorious sleep. Because on Sunday, Nov. 5 at 2 a.m., daylight saving time will bid us adieu for 2023, and our clocks will go back an hour, giving us a much-needed respite from the hustle and bustle of our daily lives.
Ah, sweet, sweet Standard Time, how we’ve missed you. In a blink of an eye, the time officially changes at 2:00 a.m. local time to become 1:00 a.m., magically granting us the hour we so cruelly lost in the spring.
But fear not, my weary friends, for this impending magical time shift will bestow upon us the precious gift of an extra hour of sleep.
So, whether you’re a snooze-button enthusiast or a connoisseur of all things cozy, get ready to savor that sweet, sweet slumber. Embrace the joy of an extended stay in dreamland, for tomorrow’s alarm will be silenced for just a little while longer.
Sleep tight, my friends, and may your dreams be as delightful as this extra hour of sleep.
On October 27, 2023, E. Third Street officially opened as a two-way street, marking a significant change in traffic flow. However, tonight, this transition led to the first accident on this newly transformed road.
At approximately 9:30 pm, Ashland Police Division Officers, Ashland Fire Department, and EMS swiftly responded to a two-vehicle crash on E. Third Street, at the intersection of N. Central Street.
The confusion surrounding the recent alteration seemed to have played a role in this unfortunate incident.
The driver of the at fault vehicle, a lifelong resident, admitted that he mistakenly believed E. Third Street was still a one-way street. Consequently, he found himself driving on the wrong side, inadvertently causing this collision.
Thankfully, the injuries sustained were minor, and two individuals were transported to the hospital by Ashland EMS for further examination.
It is important to note that drugs and alcohol were ruled out as contributing factors to the crash.
As the community adjusts to this new traffic pattern, it is crucial for everyone to remain vigilant and aware of the recent changes to ensure the safety of all motorists.
As a weekly library patron, of course I want the library to update its collection on a regular basis. But how much does an already full library need updated yearly and at what cost to the taxpayers, especially in the digital age?
Public Records Requests and emails with library officials have yielded the following information: In the 2023 $2.5 million budget (combining state and local funding), $240,300 was allocated for “Library Materials and Information.” During this year alone, 8,725 physical items have been added to the library, not counting digital items accessed by subscriptions. These physical items were manufactured (many from trees), transported (burning fuel and polluting the environment), and processed into the library system (using costly work hours). To make room for these new items in an already full library, it would make sense that around 8,000 “old” materials acquired the same way had to be processed out of the system and then discarded or sold at a fraction of the original cost.
Financially and environmentally, this goes against everything we know about conservation and trustworthy stewardship of resources. According to their own admission in public information, the library repeats such terrible waste every single year as our taxes rise.
Additionally, based on a Public Records Request of book titles purchased over the past five years, no fewer than several hundred books placed in the Juvenile, Youth, and Young Adult sections had themes of sexuality, transgenderism, and CRT. Not just the five books discussed at board meetings in 2022, not just a few dozen (plenty if the motive had only been to “educate”), but actually hundreds are now in Ashland’s library. This obsessive focus on one particular set of topics isn’t healthy or without consequences.
Some would argue that a “no” vote on the November 7th levy would “defund” the library. However, this temporary funding reduction in local funding, until another levy passes, would simply be a wake-up call to teach the library to spend more wisely and be accountable to the taxpayers. As the levy doesn’t affect state funding, its defeat wouldn’t close the library’s doors. No one is trying to do that.
The $2.5 million budget for the library isn’t for APL Board Members to waste, especially on obsessive agendas as they see fit. Please vote “no” on the library levy.
Once again, the Ashland County Sheriff Office Bomb Squad answered the call for assistance today, proving yet again their unwavering commitment to public safety.
This particular mission led them to Sherman Pl in Mansfield, Ohio, following over a dozen other calls this year alone. Their primary concern on this occasion was the possibility of old war ordnances lurking in the area, potentially posing a significant threat.
With their expertise and cutting-edge technology, the Bomb Team x-rayed the suspected ordnances, revealing possible traces of explosive material.
According the records of the Ashland County Sheriff Office, the x-ray results indicated that these ordnances may still contain unknown substances.
Although the investigation is ongoing, preliminary tests suggest that at least one of these potentially lethal weapons is, indeed, genuine.
Through their relentless dedication and unwavering vigilance, the Ashland County Sheriff Office continues to safeguard the well-being of their community with unparalleled commitment.
On November 2, 2023, the Mansfield Police Department was notified of two possible threats made to “shoot up” Mansfield Sr. High School today and Arlin Field tonight.
The first threat was received around 1:15 p.m. Immediately, officers began working leads and by 1:25 p.m. the student had been both identified and taken into custody.
The student admitted to making the threats, however, he stated it was in retaliation for a comment made about him by another student. He further stated he had no intentions of committing the act. Charges are currently being sought.
While conducting the first investigation, officers began receiving a second set of potential threats regarding a shooting at the football game tonight at Arlin Field.
After investigating all aspects of the statements made and the sources, the threats could not be validated.
Because of these recent threats, school administrators decided to cancel today’s classes and also move tonight’s football game to Rocky River High School. Mansfield Police will be on hand at tonight’s game in Rocky River merely to assure everyone’s safety.
It should also be mentioned that it was the student’s diligence and willingness to assist in bringing these threats to light. Because of that officers were able to respond as quickly as they did. Again, anyone who hears or sees threats or potentially violent activity, please call your local Law enforcement agency immediately.
Joe Lyons •
November 8, 2023
The Mansfield Police Department made a shocking discovery on Sunday, November 5th, at North Lake Park, when they stumbled upon a decomposed body while responding to another call.
CHANGE
Well, well, well, it looks like the time has come for that delightful little tradition known as “fall back.”
Once again, the Ashland County Sheriff Office Bomb Squad answered the call for assistance today, proving yet again their unwavering commitment to public safety.
Although the investigation is ongoing, preliminary tests suggest that at least one of these potentially lethal weapons is, indeed, genuine.
On November 2, 2023, the Mansfield Police Department was notified of two possible threats made to “shoot up” Mansfield Sr. High School today and Arlin Field tonight.