Amidst a flurry of accusations and a wave of questions, the Ashland Middle School community finds itself grappling with an unsettling situation, triggered by an anonymous member on the Facebook page, The Ashland Chatter.
The thought-provoking question, which emerged yesterday, raised concerns about the school’s failure to notify parents of the termination of archery coach Chapman, for alleged sexual harassment of Middle School students.
The ensuing response has been nothing short of explosive, with serious accusations flying and a disheartening consensus that this misconduct may have persisted for years. Disgruntled comments condemning the school’s lack of action have flooded the thread, expressing sentiments such as disbelief over the delayed response, and frustration that children were not protected.
Personal stories further highlight the severity of the situation, with stories of discomfort and inappropriate behavior, dating back a couple of decades. Amidst the rising tension, questions have been raised about why these matters were not addressed earlier.
One parent sent a copy of a text from Ashland City Schools Superintendent Steve Paramore saying the following:
Ashland Middle School Families,
The District placed an Ashland Middle School employee on paid administrative leave following a report of alleged inappropriate conduct. We take these allegations very seriously, and we are conducting a thorough investigation into the matter. The primary objective of this investigation is to ensure the safety and well-being of our students, staff and the entire school community. The employee will remain on paid administrative leave pending the outcome of the investigation. During the course of this investigation, the employee will not be permitted on Ashland City School District property, nor will they be permitted to have any interaction with any students of the school district. Our top priority is ensuring a safe environment for our students, and the District has high expectations for employees’ conduct. We encourage all students, families, and community members to always share any concerns with a staff member, administrator, or utilize our anonymous Safer Ohio Tip Line via text or call at 1-844-SaferOH (1-844-723-3764). We appreciate your cooperation and understanding as we work to maintain a safe and respectful learning environment for our students and staff.
Steve Paramore Superintendent Ashland City Schools
Ashland Police Division Chief, David A. Lay, confirms that there is currently no police involvement in the matter. The district remains focused on ensuring a safe and respectful learning environment for its students and staff. As the investigation unfolds, the community’s cooperation and understanding are greatly appreciated as they work towards maintaining trust and tranquility within the school walls.
If anyone has information, file a complaint with the Detectives at the Ashland Police Division, at (419) 289-3639, or utilize anonymous Safer Ohio Tip Line via text or call at 1-844-SaferOH (1-844-723-3764).
Samaritan Hospital Foundation Recognizes Greg Gorrell, Steve Huber, Melanie Miller, JoAnn Ford Watson and Gavin Finger for Their Service to the Ashland Community
Each year in October, a crowd of nearly 150 gathers to celebrate individuals in our community who give generously of their time, talent, treasure, and service to help others. This year, the Samaritan Hospital Foundation’s (SHF) annual Heart of Giving Appreciation Dinner honored four individuals with Heart of Giving Awards and added a new award to recognize a young person in our community who goes above and beyond for others.
The event began with videos highlighting how SHF grants are positively impacting the health and wellness of individuals in Ashland County and the hospital, including:
The Ashland Pregnancy Care Center (APCC) received a community grant that helped fund the purchase of a new ultrasound machine. According to Melanie Miller, Executive Director APCC, “More than 90% of women and men who see their baby on an ultrasound will choose life!” The center also uses the ultrasound to medically confirm that the pregnancy is in the uterus and not a tubal pregnancy, as well as determine the gestational age of the baby. Providing this important service allows the center to serve in the role of a pre-screening agency for women prior to established OB care.
UH Pet Pals is a pet therapy program that uses trained individuals and their adult dogs to make short, hospital in-room visits to adults and children who would enjoy the company of a furry friend. Jerry Seiter, Director of Annual Giving & Special Projects for SHF explained why he and his dog, Teddy, love providing pet therapy through the UH Pet Pals program, “My goal is to always have a therapy dog to share joy and happiness with others.”
New for 2023, SHF added The Power of Youth Award to recognize a young person in our community who shares his or her time and talents to help others. Gavin Finger, who is a 2023 graduate of Genesis Christian Academy in Ashland, has a great passion for serving as a volunteer for the local Respite Care Program through the Ashland Special Needs Ministry led by Christina Teevan. He has served as a volunteer caring for children with special needs in the program and their siblings, supporting setup, cleanup and special events, as well as serving for a week at a time with the Respite Care Team at Joni and Friends Camp. Gavin truly enjoys working with the families and he looks forward to many more years serving in the ministry of loving God’s children.
During the Heart of Giving Awards portion of the event, SHF recognized four individuals in our community for their compassion and faithful service to make a difference in the lives of others:
Greg Gorrell was honored for his lifetime of service to the Ashland community, our country, and touching the lives of so many through his faith. Whether it be bringing others to Christ through his servant leadership in his church, supporting his community through his passion to help others through fundraising during countless United Way campaigns and serving as campaign chairperson, serving on the Ashland City School Board and City Council, and last but certainly not least, through his bravery in serving our country during the Vietnam War and helping other veterans by organizing fundraising events to benefit and honor them. In retirement, Greg continues to help out in the community by supporting Associated Charities with raising funds for a new building, helping to raise funds for the new YMCA additions, and continuing to organize fundraising events to support our local veterans.
Steve Huber was recognized for decades of serving the Ashland community using his gifts and talents as an art teacher to inspire the next generation of artists, as well as his love for the outdoors, encouraging the Ashland County Commissioners to launch a county park district. For 23 years, Steve has worked with the Ashland County Park District as it has grown to 21 county parks and has served as Volunteer Park Manager at Freer Field for 20 years. He was successful in raising money to complete the Freer Field paved trail, which is a great gift to the community and has led to Freer Field being enjoyed daily by hundreds of people. Steve has also served internationally, volunteering (mostly teaching art) with trips to Haiti, the Dominican Republic, Guatemala, and Mexico. When Steve fully retired, his volunteering went into overdrive with him adding working at Ashland University (AU) planting, weeding, and trimming to help the grounds crew. And over the past decade, he has developed an interest in helping foreign AU students, especially those from China and, most recently, working with Spanish speakers to learn English.
Melanie Miller was recognized for her service to our local community through the Kroc Center, our state by promoting volunteerism during her reigns as Miss Ohio and Mrs. Ohio (the only woman in Ohio’s history to hold both titles), and as a voice to protect the lives of the unborn as the Executive Director of the Ashland Pregnancy Care Center. Melanie has testified in Columbus on legislation protecting the right to life and even conducted the first live ultrasound in Washington D.C. before the U.S. Congress. She was also recognized for the impact she is making for our community and our state through her role as Representative in the Ohio House of Representatives covering Ashland County and part of Medina County. In less than 12 months of service, Melanie has already positively impacted numerous pieces of legislation for local governments, construction contractors, the transportation bill, and she is even responsible for bringing back more than $2.5 million to Ashland County in the recently passed state operating budget.
Reverend Dr. JoAnn Ford Watson was recognized for a lifetime of giving back, serving others, and training men and women for ministry service during her 31 years at Ashland Seminary as assistant, associate, and full tenured professor. While at the Seminary, Jody accomplished many firsts…she was the first woman to be a tenured full professor and the first woman to hold an academic professionally endowed chair in theology. She was the first woman to serve as an academic department chair and the first woman to be hired as an ordained minister. She is the first woman professor to serve at the seminary until retirement to receive the award of Professor Emerita of AU and Ashland Seminary. In retirement, she continues her mission to serve and further Christ’s kingdom through her role on the Ashland County Community Foundation Board of Trustees and as President and Chair of the newly formed non-profit organization, the Foundations Community Childcare Board, which is building a new childcare center to serve up to 150 infants, toddlers, and children of school age in our community.
Chippewa Township – On Monday, October 23, 2023 at 12:42 PM the Ohio State Highway Patrol’s Wooster Post was notified of a two-vehicle crash at the intersection of State Route 21 and Township Road 63 (Grill Road) in Chippewa Township, Wayne County.
The investigation revealed a maroon 2012 Kia Sorento, was eastbound on Grill Road when it failed to yield from a stop sign and attempted to cross the southbound lanes of State Route 21. A dark blue 2017 Honda Civic was southbound on State Route 21 in the left lane and struck the Kia Sorento on the driver’s side door. The Kia Sorento came to rest in the southbound right lane of State Route 21. The Honda Civic came to rest in between the north and southbound lanes of State Route 21.
The passenger in the Civic, Robert B. Sours, 83 years old, of Wadsworth, was injured in the crash and transported to Akron City Hospital where he died in the early morning hours of October 24, 2023.
The driver of the Civic, Zachary R. Rote, 19 years old, of Rittman, was transported to Akron General Hospital with non-life-threatening injuries. The driver of the Sorento, George W. Metz, 88 years old, of Clinton, was transported to Akron General Hospital for his injuries. Seatbelts were used by all parties and alcohol use is suspected in contributing to the crash.
The Ohio State Highway Patrol was assisted on scene by Chippewa Township Fire and EMS, Doylestown PD, Reed’s Towing, and Valley View Towing
Halloween “trick or treat” time for the City of Ashland is Thursday, Oct. 26, 2023, between 5:00 and 7:00pm. Rain or shine.
Trick or Treating in the City of Ashland occurs each year on the Thursday before/of Halloween, which is chosen so as to not conflict with Friday night High School football and other weekend activities.
The 5pm to 7pm time frame is to protect our children, even with reflective costumes and flashlights, the potential for harm to a child is too high to risk having the event later in the evening when it is dark. This event is for the children and we want it to be a safe, fun event for them.
If you wish to have trick or treaters visit your home, please turn on the outside porch light. Trick or treaters, please respect porch lights turned off as a sign of residents choosing to not participate.
“Join Ashland Post of Ohio Highway Patrol’s Epic ‘Cram the Cruiser’ Event: Helping Those in Need This Season!”
Are you looking for a way to give back to your community and help those in need? Well, look no further! On Saturday November 4th, 2023, from 10am to 2pm, the Ashland Post of the Ohio Highway Patrol Troopers will be hosting their annual “Cram the Cruiser” event at the Ashland Walmart, located at 1996 E Main St, Ashland, OH 44805. This event aims to gather donations of non-perishable items to benefit the Associated Charities of Ashland County Food-bank. It’s a wonderful opportunity to make a positive impact and lend a helping hand to those experiencing food insecurity.
What is “Cram the Cruiser”?
“Cram the Cruiser” is an annual event organized by the Ohio Highway Patrol Ashland Post 03 in partnership with the community. The goal of this event is to collect non-perishable items to support the Associated Charities of Ashland County Food-bank. This food drive is crucial in providing assistance to individuals and families in need, especially during the holiday season.
How Can You Participate?
Participating in “Cram the Cruiser” is simple and rewarding. All you need to do is visit the Ashland Walmart on Saturday November 4th, 2023, between 10am and 2pm, and donate non-perishable items. The troopers from the Ohio Highway Patrol will be stationed outside the store with their cruisers ready to be filled with your generous donations.
List of Suggested Items to Donate
Here is a list of suggested items that you can donate during the “Cram the Cruiser” event:
Cereal
Spaghetti Noodles & Sauce (Cans Only)
Macaroni and Cheese
Canned Meat (Tuna, Beef, Chicken)
Crackers
Ramen Noodles
Pancake Mix & Syrup
Peanut Butter & Jelly
Ketchup / Mustard
Toilet Paper
Dish Soap
Hygiene Products
Pick any of these items or a combination of them to contribute to this noble cause. Every donation, no matter how small, makes a significant difference in someone’s life.
Sponsored By: Ohio State Highway Patrol Ashland Post 03
The “Cram the Cruiser” event is proudly sponsored by the Ohio State Highway Patrol Ashland Post 03. Their commitment to serving and protecting the community extends beyond enforcing traffic laws. They understand the importance of giving back and supporting those in need.
Make a Difference Today!
Help us reach our goal of stuffing the cruiser full of non-perishable items by participating in the “Cram the Cruiser” event. All donations will directly benefit the Associated Charities of Ashland County, ensuring that individuals and families in our community have access to essential food items during challenging times.
Your contribution will help alleviate hunger and provide a sense of hope to those who need it most. Remember, even the smallest act of kindness can have a lasting impact. We encourage you to join us at the Ashland Walmart on Saturday November 4th, 2023, from 10am to 2pm and show your support.
“Cram the Cruiser” is an incredible opportunity to give back to your community and make a positive difference in someone’s life. By donating non-perishable items, you are directly supporting the Associated Charities of Ashland County Food-bank. Join us on Saturday November 4th, 2023, at the Ashland Walmart, located at 1996 E Main St, Ashland, OH 44805, and help us reach our goal of stuffing the cruiser full of essential food items.
Remember, every donation counts. Together, we can make a significant impact and show compassion to those who may be struggling. Let’s come together as a community and make this year’s “Cram the Cruiser” event the most successful one yet!
Norwalk – On October 22, 2023, Lowell Brown, 84 years of age, from North Fairfield, died from injuries he sustained in a traffic crash on September 25, 2023.
On September 25, 2023 at 12 PM, Mr. Lowell was traveling south on Old State Rd at Dublin Rd in a 2022 Chevrolet Equinox. Vincent Croft, 18 years of age, from New London, was traveling west on Dublin Rd in a 2016 Chevrolet Cruze. Mr. Croft failed to stop at the stop sign and struck Mr. Lowell . Both vehicles traveled off the southwest corner of the intersection where they came to rest.
Mr. Lowell and Mr. Croft were transported to Fisher Titus Medical Center by North Central EMS. Mr. Lowell was later taken to Cleveland Metro with serious injuries.
Mr. Croft sustained minor injuries and they both were wearing their seat belts.
Both vehicles sustained disabling damage and were towed by Whites and Interstate.
Alcohol and drugs were not a factor and the crash remains under investigation
In a letter from the Department of Rehabilitation and Correction, it has been announced that the Ashland County Jail has successfully passed their 2023 Annual Jail Inspection. This accomplishment demonstrates the commitment and dedication of the Ashland County Sheriff’s Office, and their corrections staff to maintain compliance with the Minimum Standards for Jails in Ohio. Let’s take a closer look at the inspection process, and the outstanding results achieved by the Ashland County Jail.
The Annual Jail Inspection
According to the letter from Jack Barone, State Jail Inspector Bureau of Adult Detention, the Ashland County Jail underwent their 2023 Annual Jail Inspection on October 16th, 2023. This inspection was conducted in accordance with Section 5120.10 of the Ohio Revised Code, and Executive Order 92-03 of the Department of Rehabilitation and Correction. The inspection focused on assessing the jail’s compliance with a selected group of standards, as outlined in the Standards for Jails in Ohio.
Scope of the Inspection
The inspection covered various areas of the Ashland County Jail’s operations, including: Reception & Release, Classification, Security, Housing, Sanitation and Environmental Conditions, Communication, Visitation, Medical and Mental Health Services, Food Service, Recreation and Programming, Inmate Discipline, Administrative Segregation, Grievance, Staffing, and Staff Training. It was a comprehensive assessment to ensure that all necessary standards were met.
Impressive Results
The Ashland County Jail Inspection checked a total of 178 standards, divided into 53 “Essential” and 125 “Important”. The remarkable news is that the jail did not have any non-compliance issues with any of these standards. This achievement reflects the exceptional commitment of the Ashland County Sheriff’s Office and their corrections staff in upholding the highest level of professionalism, and adherence to regulations.
Next Steps
While the Ashland County Jail received excellent results, it’s important to note that the letter from the State Jail Inspector also highlights that this inspection serves as a basis for identifying any deficiencies that may require corrective action. In other words, it provides an opportunity for continuous improvement, and ensures that any areas requiring attention are promptly addressed. This commitment to ongoing evaluation and improvement is a vital aspect of maintaining compliance with the Minimum Standards for Jails in Ohio.
Sheriff’s Commendation
Sheriff E. Wayne Risner expressed his immense pride in the performance of the Ashland County Corrections staff. Their unwavering dedication and hard work have contributed to the successful outcome of this annual inspection. Sheriff Risner stated, “I’m extremely proud of every member of our Corrections staff. They work extremely hard around the clock, to ensure that all policies and procedures pertaining to Ohio Department of Rehabilitation & Correction regarding jail standards are enforced. The results of this annual Jail inspection certainly demonstrate that.”
Conclusion
The successful passing of the 2023 Annual Jail Inspection by the Ashland County Jail is a testament to the commitment and expertise of the Ashland County Sheriff’s Office and their corrections staff. Their diligence and adherence to the highest standards ensure the safety and well-being of both inmates and staff. With no compliance issues found during the inspection, the Ashland County Jail has proved its dedication to maintaining excellence in all aspects of its operations.
Nestor Salazar Age: 34
White / Male / 5’9” / 175lbs / Black Hair / Brown Eyes
Wanted by U.S Marshals Service and Richland County Sheriff’s Office for illegal conveyance of drugs.
Ties to the Mansfield, Willard, and Columbus.
Sheena Conley Age: 38
White / female / 5’2’’ / 150lbs / Brown Hair / Blue Eyes
Wanted by the U.S Marshals Service and Richland County Sheriff’s Office for possession of heroin.
Ties to the Crestline and Bucyrus area.
Mario Godrey Age: 44
Black / Male / 5’9’’ / 220lbs / Brown Hair / Brown Eyes
Wanted by the U.S Marshals Service and Adult Parole Authority for a parole violation on the original charge of aggravated vehicular homicide.
Ties to Mansfield and Cleveland area.
Derrick Taylor Age: 46
White / Male / 245lbs / Brown Hair / Brown Eyes
Wanted by the U.S Marshals and Richland County Sheriff’s office for felonious assault.
Ties to Mansfield, Baltic, and Bucyrus OH.
Reward money is available for information directly leading to an arrest. Anyone with information concerning any of these fugitives can contact the Northern Ohio Violent Fugitive Task Force office at 419-774-3565 or the tip line at 1-866-4WANTED (1-866-492-6833) or you can send a web tip at the following webpage http://www.usmarshals.gov/district/oh-n/index.html.
Tipsters may remain anonymous, and a cash reward may be available. The Task Force’s “Dangerous Dozen” fugitives can be viewed at https://www.usmarshals.gov/sites/default/files/media/document/dangerous-dozen.pdf, which is updated monthly.
The NOVFTF Akron Division consists of the following federal, state and local agencies:
United States Marshals Service, Mansfield Police Department, Ohio Adult Parole Authority, Richland County Probation, Richland County Sheriff’s Office, Ashland County Sheriff’s Office, Bucyrus Police Department, Galion Police Department, Huron County Sheriff’s Office, Lexington Police Department, Loudonville Police Department, Ohio State Highway Patrol, Ontario Police Department, Plymouth Police Department, Willard Police Department and Crestline Police Department.
ASHLAND, Ohio – The Ashland University Jazz Orchestra will perform its first “Jazz at the Nest” concert of the 2023-24 season on Thursday, Oct. 26. The event, which is free and open to the public, will take place in the Hawkins-Conard Student Center’s Eagle’s Nest starting at 7:30 p.m.
The AUJO, under the direction of Scott Garlock, a professor of music, has been providing the AU campus and greater Ashland community with diverse jazz programming and internationally recognized jazz artists for more than 50 years. The ensemble consists of various saxophone, trombone, trumpet and rhythm instruments played by both music and non-music majors.
Thursday’s concert will include songs from the Great American Songbook, defined as the most important and influential American popular songs and jazz standards from the early 20th century that have stood the test of time. Among the selections to be played are “Almost Like Being in Love” by Frederick Loewe and Alan Jay Lerner, Duke Ellington’s “Oclupapa,” “I Mean You” by Thelonious Monk and Coleman Hawkins and traditional favorites like “Danny Boy” and “Yankee Doodle.”
Garlock noted that “the award-winning ensemble is preparing for a trip to Spain in March and several of the selections heard at this concert will be featured in front of Spanish audiences.”
Are you in need of groceries? Do you want to make a difference in your community? Look no further than the Matthew 25 Outreach Center of Ashland County’s free grocery distribution event. With the help of dedicated volunteers, Matthew 25 Outreach Center strives to provide food to those in need, all while spreading God’s love and peace. Whether you’re looking for assistance or wanting to lend a helping hand, this article will provide you with all the information you need to get involved.
Drive-Through Distribution: Saturday, October 28th
Matthew 25 Outreach Center free drive-through grocery distribution will take place on Saturday, October 28th, from 10:00 am to 1:00 pm. You can find us in the parking lot of the Luray Lanes, located at 647 E. Main St, in Ashland. Rain or shine, Matthew 25 Outreach Center volunteers will be there to assist you.
Dress for the Weather!
Since the entire distribution is outdoors, please dress accordingly. It’s essential to be prepared for the weather conditions on that day. However, if you need a break from the elements, the bowling alley will be open, providing access to restrooms and shelter.
Volunteer Opportunities: Join us in Making a Difference
Our work at the Matthew 25 Outreach Center of Ashland County wouldn’t be possible without the help of our amazing volunteers. Whether you can spare a few hours or the entire day, your assistance will be greatly appreciated. Here are some ways you can get involved:
Staging Process: Meet us at 7:00 am to help with the initial staging process, as the truckload of food arrives.
Traffic Control: Your assistance at 7:00 am to help direct traffic will be invaluable.
Packaging: Join us at 8:00 am to help package bulk foods into family-size packages, making them ready for distribution.
Registration: At 8:00 am, we need volunteers to help register every family that receives food. Don’t worry; we’ll provide a quick training session for this role.
Home Deliveries: If you have a personal vehicle, you can assist with home deliveries starting at 8:00 am. This is a rewarding experience, knowing you’re bringing food directly to those who can’t make it to the distribution site.
More Ways to Help
If you can’t join us on the fourth Saturday of each month, that doesn’t mean you can’t make a difference. We have additional volunteer opportunities, such as delivering shelf-stable food boxes to seniors in Ashland County. These deliveries take place throughout the month, offering flexibility for those with busy schedules.
Another option is helping us install yard signs during the week of our distribution. Contact us for more information about this volunteer opportunity.
Volunteers of All Ages and Abilities Welcome
We believe that volunteer opportunities should be accessible to everyone. Therefore, we welcome volunteers of all ages and abilities to join us in distributing free groceries and sharing God’s love with the people of Ashland County. Bring your friends, family, neighbors, and co-workers along for an impactful day.
The Matthew 25 Outreach Center of Ashland County’s free grocery distribution event is a shining example of what a community can achieve when they come together with a common purpose. Whether you need assistance or have time to spare, we encourage you to join us on Saturday, October 28th, for a rewarding experience. Let’s make a difference and spread love to those in need.
Joe Lyons •
October 25, 2023
Samaritan Hospital Foundation Recognizes Greg Gorrell, Steve Huber, Melanie Miller, JoAnn Ford Watson and Gavin Finger for Their Service to the Ashland Community
New for 2023, SHF added The Power of Youth Award to recognize a young person in our community who shares his or her time and talents to help others. Gavin Finger, who is a 2023 graduate of Genesis Christian Academy in Ashland, has a great passion for serving as a volunteer for the local Respite Care Program through the Ashland Special Needs Ministry led by Christina Teevan. He has served as a volunteer caring for children with special needs in the program and their siblings, supporting setup, cleanup and special events, as well as serving for a week at a time with the Respite Care Team at Joni and Friends Camp. Gavin truly enjoys working with the families and he looks forward to many more years serving in the ministry of loving God’s children.
Chippewa Township – On Monday, October 23, 2023 at 12:42 PM the Ohio State Highway Patrol’s Wooster Post was notified of a two-vehicle crash at the intersection of State Route 21 and Township Road 63 (Grill Road) in Chippewa Township, Wayne County.
Halloween “trick or treat” time for the City of Ashland is Thursday, Oct. 26, 2023, between 5:00 and 7:00pm. Rain or shine.
“Join Ashland Post of Ohio Highway Patrol’s Epic ‘Cram the Cruiser’ Event: Helping Those in Need This Season!”
Norwalk – On October 22, 2023, Lowell Brown, 84 years of age, from North Fairfield, died from injuries he sustained in a traffic crash on September 25, 2023.
Nestor Salazar Age: 34
Sheena Conley Age: 38
Mario Godrey Age: 44
Derrick Taylor Age: 46
ASHLAND, Ohio – The Ashland University Jazz Orchestra will perform its first “Jazz at the Nest” concert of the 2023-24 season on Thursday, Oct. 26. The event, which is free and open to the public, will take place in the Hawkins-Conard Student Center’s Eagle’s Nest starting at 7:30 p.m.
Are you in need of groceries? Do you want to make a difference in your community? Look no further than the Matthew 25 Outreach Center of Ashland County’s free grocery distribution event. With the help of dedicated volunteers, Matthew 25 Outreach Center strives to provide food to those in need, all while spreading God’s love and peace. Whether you’re looking for assistance or wanting to lend a helping hand, this article will provide you with all the information you need to get involved.
