Lakshmi Prasad Dasi, co-founder/chief technology officer of DASI Simulations and a professor of biomedical engineering at Georgia Institute of Technology, will be the speaker for Ashland University’s seventh annual “Lab to Marketplace” seminar, on Thursday, Nov. 9, at 7:30 p.m. Dasi’s presentation, “Engineering Structural Heart Treatment Decisions: From Lab to the Operating Room,” will be held at Ronk Lecture Hall in the Dwight Schar College of Education. It is free and open to the public.
The lecture will address the development and commercialization of AI-driven heart valve replacement simulations that can guide surgeons and improve patient outcomes after heart valve surgery. A leading bioengineer and researcher in the field of prosthetic heart valves, cardiovascular biomechanics, biomaterials and devices, Dasi co-founded DASI Simulations, a medical technology start-up located in Columbus, Ohio, with Teri Sirset in 2019.
Sharing a common interest in using physical models of the heart and vascular system to help improve heart valve replacement surgeries, Dasi and Sirset established the company to provide surgeons with computer models to predict and visualize the interaction between various devices and a patient’s unique anatomy. The modeling software was recently cleared for use with patients by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration, and the company was also one of 61 chosen (out of 1,150) to participate in the MedTech Accelerator program.
Dasi, who has raised more than $6 million in federal funding towards heart valve research, holds the Rozelle Vanda Wesley Endowed Professorship at Georgia Tech, where he directs the Cardiovascular Fluid Mechanics lab which studies the function and mechanics of heart valves and other complex cardiac defects. He previously held faculty positions at Ohio State University and Colorado State University.
Dasi earned a bachelor’s degree from the Indian Institute of Technology in Bombay, India, a master’s degree in civil and environmental engineering from Georgia Tech and a Ph.D. with a focus on fluid dynamics and turbulence from Georgia Tech.
The “Lab to Marketplace” seminar series is designed to bring speakers to the AU community who are engaged in translational research, research that uses scientific knowledge to develop new technologies and other applications. It is supported by a generous gift from Kimmie and Steve Humrichouser and the Burton D. Morgan Center for Entrepreneurship in the Dauch College of Business and Economics.
For more information on this seminar, please contact Paul Hyman, professor of biology at AU, at phyman@ashland.edu or 419-207-6309.
I wanted to take a moment to share a heartfelt plea from a veteran named Brian Moore, who is experiencing an incredibly difficult time. Brian has been organizing a GoFundMe Fundraiser to help cover the medical expenses for his beloved English Bulldog named Hopey, who is currently facing some serious health challenges.
As many of you may know, Brian and Hopey share an incredible bond, one that has been instrumental in helping Brian cope with his PTSD and other related issues. The VA acknowledged the powerful impact of having a canine companion at home and recommended it to Brian, and Hopey has lived up to that expectation wholeheartedly.
Hopey has been a source of solace and comfort, significantly reducing Brian’s panic attacks and anger issues. However, the situation has taken a heartbreaking turn, as Hopey’s health has been deteriorating rapidly. Her weight has dropped, her balance is off, and she consistently experiences brown water diarrhea.
Brian has diligently sought veterinary care, with multiple tests and various medications being administered. Unfortunately, nothing thus far has worked, and Hopey’s condition remains serious.
Consequently, Brian is now facing an additional round of tests next week. As a veteran who relies on his VA disability income, this financial burden has become incredibly overwhelming. Nevertheless, Brian is determined to do whatever it takes to improve Hopey’s health, even if it means sacrificing everything he owns.
While he has never been one to ask for handouts or seek financial assistance, Hopey’s well-being is of utmost importance to him, and he is reaching out for our support. If any of you can contribute, whether by donating through this fundraiser or by suggesting reputable specialists who could provide further guidance, it would mean the world to Brian and give him renewed hope for Hopey’s recovery.
Please understand that Brian is new to this fundraising process, so he apologizes if his goal amount seems too high or too low. Let us come together as a community and show Brian and Hopey the empathy, compassion, and generosity they so deeply deserve.
The Mansfield Division of Police, Major Crimes Unit is actively working a Double Homicide and Four Felonious Assaults in the City of Mansfield.
On October 27, 2023, at 2340 hours, the Mansfield Division of Police responded to the area of 810 Ferndale Ave. reference numerous calls about shots fired and people running from the area. Officers arrived at the residence and found four gunshot victims. Two victims were taken to a local hospital. Two victims were pronounced deceased at the residence.
A hospital called and stated a gunshot victim had been brought to the ER in personal vehicle. As the investigation proceeded during interviews with a few witnesses it was learned one of them had also been shot.
The Coroner’s Office responded to the scene and took the two deceased persons to have a forensic examination done.
The victims of the Double Homicide were 17 and 18 years of age. The victims of the Felonious Assaults ranged from 14 to 19 years of age.
The Mansfield Police Lab along with Detectives processed the crime scene.
Numerous pieces of evidence were collected along with numerous guns and drugs.
A group of subjects fled the scene on foot and in vehicles from witness accounts.
Subjects at the party were not able to give a good description of the suspect or suspects or any vehicles.
“We are asking for the help of the community in identifying the suspects in these heinous crimes.,” stated Lt. Robert J. Skropits.
Please contact Det. Sgt. Jered Kingsborough at 419-755-9729 or Det. Korey Kaufman
Jennifer Lyons, Author https://www.jslyonsauthor.com/
“Discover Literary Delights at Ashland County’s Park District: A Local Author Book Signing amidst the Festivities of Pine Hill – Sauers Farm Park Cider Day & Craft Show”
We are thrilled to announce that today, the talented local author, illustrator Jennifer Lyons, will be participating in the Ashland County Park District Pine Hill – Sauers Farm Park Cider Day & Craft Show.
Set in the picturesque location of 260 Twp. Rd. 1601 Greenwich, OH 44837, this event promises to be a memorable experience. At the event, attendees will have the opportunity to meet Jennifer Lyons at her designated table for a book signing. Her Amazon 5 Star rated acclaimed work, “Freedom Frog,” will be available for signing and purchase, providing readers with a chance to engage with the author and obtain a cherished autographed copy of her beloved book.
The book signing will take place between the hours of 2pm and 4pm. With free admission, visitors will also have the chance to participate in a wide variety of delightful activities. The Ruggles/Troy Fire Department Touch A Truck event will provide a unique opportunity for children and adults alike to interact with fire trucks and learn about fire safety.
Additionally, patrons will have the chance to witness a 100+ year old cider press in operation and marvel at antique tractors on display, offering a glimpse into the region’s rich agricultural history. For those seeking a taste of autumn, free cider samples will be available, providing a refreshing and flavorful delight.
Crafters and artisans will showcase their creations inside two barns and on the grounds, offering a delightful browsing experience for visitors seeking handmade treasures. Hayrides and hikes will enable attendees to explore the beauty of the park, weather permitting.
Furthermore, various programs will take place throughout the day, ensuring that everyone finds something of interest. Fishing enthusiasts can enjoy the tranquil pond, while children can partake in the numerous activities, games, and crafts designed specifically for them.
To fuel visitors during this unforgettable day, assorted food vendors will provide a delectable range of culinary delights.
The Local Author Book Signing during the Ashland County Park District Pine Hill – Sauers Farm Park Cider Day & Craft Show offers an ideal opportunity to celebrate local talent, explore the great outdoors, and indulge in a festive atmosphere.
Celebrate Fall at Ashland County Park District’s Cider Day & Craft Show
CIDER DAY & CRAFT SHOW Saturday, October 28 9:00 a.m. – 4:00 p.m. Ashland County Park District Pine Hill – Sauers Farm Park 260 Twp. Rd. 1601 Greenwich, OH 44837 Watch a 100+ year old cider press in operation Antique tractors on display Crafters and artisans inside two barns & on the grounds Food provided by assorted vendors
“Marching to the Beat and Soaring in Sound: Ashland University’s Eagle Marching Band Presents ‘Sounds of the Stadium’ in an Unforgettable Concert!”
Ashland University’s Eagle Marching Band, known for their captivating performances, is gearing up to present their highly anticipated “Sounds of the Stadium” concert on Sunday, November 5. This remarkable event will be held at Kates Gymnasium, starting at 4 p.m., and admission is free for all music enthusiasts.
Directed by the incredibly talented Joseph Lewis, Jr., the Eagle Marching Band will enchant the audience with a mesmerizing selection of musical pieces derived from this year’s pregame and halftime shows.
Audiences can expect to hear a distinctive blend of contemporary hits and timeless classics, including popular tunes such as “Centuries,” “Don’t Stop Believin’,” “The Greatest Show,” “Holding Out for a Hero,” “I’m Still Standing,” and “We Don’t Talk About Bruno,” alongside other beloved AU favorites.
With a rich history dating back to 1988, the Eagle Marching Band is composed of around 65 exceptional students, featuring a dynamic combination of skilled musicians, a phenomenal color guard, and talented majorettes.
Aside from captivating fans with their performances at home football games, the band also embarks on thrilling trips to marching exhibitions throughout Ohio.
Known for their contemporary style and exciting movement, the Eagle Marching Band has become one of the most cherished and celebrated student organizations on campus.
So mark your calendars, gather your friends and family, and prepare to be mesmerized by the extraordinary talent of Ashland University’s Eagle Marching Band at their unforgettable “Sounds of the Stadium” concert.
Hey there, are you ready for some serious fun? Well, mark your calendars because this Saturday, October 28th, the Appleseed Community Mental Health Center is bringing you the Apple Fest! Located at 2233 Rocky Lane Ashland, OH 44805.
This event is jam-packed with activities that will have you grinning from ear to ear.
From 1:00 to 3:00 PM, you can indulge in trunk or treating, get your face painted with the most fantastic designs, unleash your creativity with crafts, bounce around in the bouncy house, and even challenge your friends to a thrilling game of corn hole.
The best part? This event is absolutely free, and everyone is welcome!
So gather your friends, grab your sweetest costume, and head on down to Appleseed CMHC this Saturday. We can’t wait to see your delightful costumes and smiling faces!
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
Joe Lyons •
October 31, 2023
Lakshmi Prasad Dasi, co-founder/chief technology officer of DASI Simulations and a professor of biomedical engineering at Georgia Institute of Technology, will be the speaker for Ashland University’s seventh annual “Lab to Marketplace” seminar, on Thursday, Nov. 9, at 7:30 p.m. Dasi’s presentation, “Engineering Structural Heart Treatment Decisions: From Lab to the Operating Room,” will be held at Ronk Lecture Hall in the Dwight Schar College of Education. It is free and open to the public.
I wanted to take a moment to share a heartfelt plea from a veteran named Brian Moore, who is experiencing an incredibly difficult time. Brian has been organizing a 
The Mansfield Division of Police, Major Crimes Unit is actively working a Double Homicide and Four Felonious Assaults in the City of Mansfield.
“Marching to the Beat and Soaring in Sound: Ashland University’s Eagle Marching Band Presents ‘Sounds of the Stadium’ in an Unforgettable Concert!”
Hey there, are you ready for some serious fun? Well, mark your calendars because this Saturday, October 28th, the Appleseed Community Mental Health Center is bringing you the Apple Fest! Located at 2233 Rocky Lane Ashland, OH 44805.
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.