Ashland County Pictures

12/27/2024

Janotta & Herner DESIGNCONSTRUCTIONAJHI GROUP COMPANY pulls down main Sanctuary support beam at the Park St Brethren Church

12/25/2024

Ashland Residents Step Back in Time with President Harry S. Truman Reenactment

ASHLAND, OHIO — Residents and guests at Brethren Care Village experienced a unique blend of history and music during a presentation by local historian Kenneth Hammontree, who transformed himself into the 33rd President of the United States, Harry S. Truman. The event offered a glimpse into Truman’s life and legacy, delighting attendees with both historical insights and live piano music.

What many didn’t know is that President Truman was an accomplished pianist. Beginning lessons at the age of seven, music was a lifelong passion for the president. Hammontree highlighted this lesser-known facet of Truman’s life by performing music as part of his reenactment, making the evening a rich, multisensory journey into the past.

Beyond his musical talents, Truman is remembered for his pivotal role in shaping the course of world history. In the final stages of World War II, after Japan rejected calls for surrender, Truman made the controversial decision to deploy atomic bombs on Hiroshima and Nagasaki, hastening the end of the war. His presidency also saw the implementation of the Marshall Plan to rebuild Western Europe, the establishment of NATO, and the Truman Doctrine to counter Soviet expansion.

Attendees were reminded of Truman’s famous words:

"America was not built on fear. America was built on courage, on imagination, and an unbeatable determination to do the job at hand."

Hammontree also delved into Truman’s personal story. Raised in Independence, Missouri, Truman worked as a haberdasher after serving in World War I, earning the nickname "The Haberdasher." His straightforward demeanor and no-nonsense approach to leadership later inspired the moniker "Give 'Em Hell Harry."

Truman’s political career, which began as a judge in Jackson County, Missouri, culminated in his presidency from 1945 to 1953. During his tenure, he made groundbreaking moves in civil rights, including desegregating the U.S. Armed Forces through Executive Order 9981.

The presentation offered residents an engaging look at Truman’s life, blending history, music, and storytelling. Events like these are a testament to the power of historical reenactments to educate and inspire.

As the evening concluded, attendees expressed their appreciation for Hammontree’s vivid portrayal of Truman. For many, it was not only a night of learning but also a reminder of the enduring impact of one of America’s most consequential presidents.

12/25/2024

Genesis Christian Academy Brings History to Life with St. Nicholas of Myra Presentation

ASHLAND, OHIO — Students at Genesis Christian Academy recently had the opportunity to step into history through an extraordinary presentation by their American History teacher, Kenneth Hammontree. Transforming himself into Saint Nicholas of Myra, Hammontree shared the rich and inspiring history of the man behind the legend of Santa Claus.

The presentation focused on the life of St. Nicholas of Myra, a revered figure in Christian history. Known as the patron saint of children, sailors, and the poor, Nicholas was born in Patara, Lycia (modern-day Turkey) and became a bishop in the nearby town of Myra.

Hammontree detailed how Nicholas, orphaned at a young age after his parents succumbed to a plague, dedicated his life and inherited wealth to serving others. “He secretly helped the poor by placing gold coins, coal, or wood at their doorsteps, never seeking recognition for his deeds,” Hammontree explained to students.

Nicholas’ legacy also includes his involvement in the early Christian Church, including his attendance at the Council of Nicaea, where many foundational doctrines of Christianity were established. Despite facing persecution under Roman rule, Nicholas remained steadfast in his mission to care for the homeless, orphaned, and needy.

The event highlighted the origins of St. Nicholas Day, celebrated annually on December 6, when children in countries like Germany, Switzerland, and the Netherlands traditionally receive small gifts in their stockings or shoes. Hammontree also traced how these traditions evolved over centuries into the modern-day image of Santa Claus, combining folklore from various cultures, such as the Dutch figure "Sinterklaas."

Hammontree ended his presentation with a timeless reminder inspired by St. Nicholas’ life: “Christmas should be about care and generosity, not materialism. This season is a time to reflect on how we can help those in need, whether in our neighborhoods, families, or across the world.”

Genesis Christian Academy’s unique presentation allowed students not only to learn about history but also to connect with the deeper values of compassion and giving. It was a lesson in both the past and the spirit of the holiday season that left everyone inspired.

12/25/2024

CHRISTMAS EVE BOLO

All units prepare to copy a bolo regarding Christmas Cheer:

NORAD and the North Pole Police are tracking a vehicle coming from a northern direction and believed to be headed for Ashland County.

Be on the look-out for an elderly male subject, approx 5’10”, 300 pounds, white hair and a long white beard, last seen wearing a red velvet suit trimmed in white fur with a matching hat, carrying a large red sack slung over his back.

He has been spotted entering numerous homes from the rooftops. The only things that have been reported as missing are milk and cookies. Although many are reporting packages being left behind wrapped in colorful paper, others have reported lumps of coal being left in their stockings.

Reports are coming in from Huron, Richland, and other surrounding areas. He was last seen northbound in a red sleigh being pulled by nine tiny reindeer. The lead reindeer appears to be impersonating emergency vehicles, as he is described to have a red light up nose.

The subject goes by many names but it most commonly known as Santa Clause.

If spotted DO NOT apprehend, as he has Christmas Cheer to spread to all the residents of our counties.

Everyone at Ashland County Combined Dispatch would like to wish you and your families a very Merry Christmas and a safe and happy New Year.

12/22/2024

Single vehicle crash

Car versus tree on County Road 1475

12/22/2024

Never Alone Act Signed into Law



COLUMBUS- Ohio Governor Mike DeWine signed the Never Alone Act, sponsored by State Representatives Melanie Miller (R-City of Ashland) and Beth Lear (R-Galena) into law during a signing ceremony recently held at the Statehouse.

House Bill 236 previously passed with a unanimous vote of 89-0 in the Ohio House. The Act ensures every patient has access to an advocate to be with them in a hospital, nursing home, or other congregate care setting - especially during a health emergency.

“I want to thank Governor DeWine for signing the Never Alone Act from an idea into reality,” said Miller. “The Never Alone Act ensures that everyone has someone who can speak for them and be by their side whenever they find themselves in a hospital, nursing home or other type of healthcare facility when they do not have a voice.”

“While the need for an advocate became obvious during COVID, it remains clear that patients and residents need access to loved ones whenever they are in a vulnerable healthcare situation,” Lear said. “We simply want to ensure no one is forced to suffer or die alone ever again. We must protect our most vulnerable citizens during a healthcare crisis.”

Specifically, the Never Alone Act:

Requires a congregate care setting to inform a patient or resident that the patient or resident may designate an individual to serve as an advocate and to provide the patient or resident the opportunity to make a designation.

Prohibits a congregate care setting from
1: denying a patient or resident access to an advocate and
2: prohibiting an advocate from being physically present with a patient or resident.

Prohibits a political subdivision, public official, or state agency from issuing an order or rule, or enforcing on behalf of the federal government a federal order or rule, that would require a care setting to violate the bill’s provisions.

Requires the Department of Health to create a Never Alone information sheet and each congregate care setting to provide each patient or resident with a copy at the time of admission.

The Never Alone Act will go into effect 90 days after the Governor’s signature.

12/21/2024

Final NIGHT of the Ashland Christmas Village TONIGHT

🎄✨🎅 FINAL NIGHT OF SANTA MAGIC! 🎅✨🎄

📅 December 21st | 6-8 PM
📍 Corner Park

🎁 Don’t miss the ultimate holiday experience! Tomorrow evening is your last chance to meet Santa before he heads back to the North Pole. 🎅🌟

Bring the whole family and enjoy:

🦌 Reindeer you can meet and even pet before they have to head back to the North Pole.
📖 A story from Mrs. Claus herself.
☃️ A magical experience inside a snow globe.
🚂 A train ride through downtown for all ages - waivers must be signed by 8 pm to ride.
📸 A special photo op with Santa from a professional photographer and a free 4x6 printout.

🎉 All of this is completely FREE thanks to our wonderful community sponsors, generous donations, and our volunteers. We do have donation boxes and electronic options located around the village if you want to support us as well.

✨ This is the final night, so lines might be longer. Bundle up your little ones and come ready for an evening of holiday magic! 🎄❤️

🔗 More info: https://www.facebook.com/events/868453402069542

We hope to see you there! 🎅✨

12/21/2024

12/21/2024

METRICH Drug Investigation/Search Warrants/Arrest


On December 20, 2024, METRICH detectives executed a series of drug related search warrants authorized by the Honorable Judge Michael Kemerer of the Mansfield Municipal court for 26 Dunbilt Ct, 40 Bradford Ave. & 290 South Diamond St., Mansfield, Richland County, Ohio. Assisting with the search warrant was the Mansfield Division of Police, Mansfield Police K-9 Maxx and members of the Richland County ASORT.

The Search Warrant was a result of a drug trafficking investigation conducted by the METRICH Enforcement Unit Seized was a total of 486 grams of suspected co***ne, 9 grams of suspected fentanyl, (2) recovered stolen fi****ms and other drug related evidence along with a large amount of suspected stolen property and $3,296.00 in US currency.

Detectives arrested and charged Sentreas Sanks, 35, of Mansfield, Ohio with several counts of Trafficking in Co***ne (F-1) & Trafficking in Fentanyl. Sanks was incarcerated in The Richland County Jail pending his appearance in court. Further Drug & Weapon related charges will be forwarded to the Richland County Prosecutor’s Office.

Detective Perry Wheeler advised that this investigation was a direct result of the continued support from the community in reporting suspected drug activity and METRICH Commander Lt.Steve Blust encourages all citizens to continue such reporting.

Citizens can call the METRICH Crime Tip Hotline at 419-52-CRIME (419-522-7463) or the Task Force line at 419-755-9728 or by using the METRICH app.

12/20/2024

Possible structure fire at 235 East Washington

12/20/2024

Christmas: A Time To Be Thankful
https://www.ashlandcountypictures.com/post/christmas-a-time-to-be-thankful/
By Dianne Hammontree

12/20/2024

UPDATE: the subject has been located. We would also like to add that this was a traffic incident and not a shoplifting incident.

Ashland Police Division posted, We are asking for help identifying the person in the photos. Officer Haring is investigating a minor incident that happened this morning. If anyone has information please call Officer Haring at 419-289-3639 ext. 1139. Thank you.

12/20/2024

Two-Vehicle Crash Shuts Down State Route 60 in Ashland County

Ashland County, OH — A two-vehicle collision this evening shut down State Route 60 at County Road 2175. The crash, reported at approximately 4:16 p.m., involved a 2017 Dodge Caravan and a 1997 Ford F-150.

Frederick Rogers, 70, of Ashland, was driving the Dodge Caravan northbound on State Route 60 when it collided with the westbound Ford F-150, driven by Sarah Sprang, 25, of Perrysville.

Sprang sustained serious injuries and was airlifted to Akron City Hospital via Life Flight. Rogers is believed to have suffered serious but non-life-threatening injuries.

Multiple agencies responded to the scene, including the Ohio Highway Patrol, Ashland County Sheriff’s Office, Hayesville Fire Department & EMS, and Jeromesville Fire Department & EMS.

State Route 60 remained closed for nearly an hour as crews worked to clear the scene.

The crash is currently under investigation by the Ashland Post of the Ohio State Highway Patrol.

The crash is currently under investigation by the Ashland Post of the Ohio State Highway Patrol.

12/19/2024

Two vehicle accident shuts down State Route 60 at County Road 2175

12/19/2024

Congratulations to Sarah Gentry and "Besa" for receiving The Search & Rescue ACE Award of 2024!

Go the following link for the full news article: https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/five-heroic-dogs-honored-with-2024-akc-humane-fund-awards-for-canine-excellence-ace-302332667.html

Besa is a multipurpose search & rescue dog, certified in
human remains searches (both land and water) and live
persons through area search and successful trailing.
Besa is the first in the nation to test and receive USPCA
certification in Human Scent/Human Trafficking. Besa has
been featured in digital media and on local TV news for her
accomplishments and a local talk show demonstrating her
skills. Besa is nationally prepared through her certifications to
assist as needed but continues to be an asset to our local
community, making a positive difference in people's lives.

We cannot thank Sarah and Besa enough for serving our community.

12/19/2024

The Salvation Army Kroc Center to host Ashland Celebrity Red Kettle Challenge on Dec. 20



ASHLAND, Ohio – The Salvation Army Ray & Joan Kroc Corps Community Center in Ashland, Ohio is pleased to announce a local celebrity Red Kettle Challenge the afternoon of Friday, Dec. 20.

During the following times, local celebrities will be vying for the most amount raised during their allotted timeframe for ringing the bell at the Ashland Walmart store:

Ashland City Engineering Department: 12-1 p.m.
Ashland City Police Department: 1-2 p.m.
Ashland County Sheriff: 2-3 p.m.
Ohio State Troopers – Ashland Post: 3-4 p.m.
Ashland City Schools: 4-5 p.m.
Ashland City Fire Department: 5-6 p.m.

The winner will be announced on Facebook. Please be sure to stop by and support your favorite Ashland official while caring for the Ashland County community through the social services, food pantry and Christmas assistance programs provided by The Ashland Kroc Center.

“One hundred percent of the funds raised through the Red Kettles will stay local to show love to all of our neighbors in need during the holidays and beyond,” says Dan Lawson, PhD, Director of Community Relations and Development.

“And the need hasn’t been greater than now,” continues Dr. Lawson. “The Ashland County community has been significantly impacted by inflation, the affordable housing crisis, and food insecurity. That means a massive number of families will be going into the New Year with fewer resources and more need.”

For more information on The Ashland Kroc Center please visit www.ashlandkroc.org, Ashland Kroc Center on Facebook or on Instagram, or call (419) 281-8001.

12/19/2024

State Highway Patrol Honors Trooper Reed

Mansfield – The Ohio State Highway Patrol Mansfield Post honors one of their own. The Post Trooper of the Year Award is awarded to one trooper at each post in recognition for their outstanding service throughout the year. Trooper Christian Reed was selected for the distinguished award for the 2024 year.

Reed is a 2017 graduate of Clear Fork Highschool and earned an Associates of Applied Science degree for Criminal Justice from North Central State College in 2020.

Reed is a former Richland County Sheriff Deputy and began his career with the Ohio State Highway Patrol in 2021. He also served in the Army reserve from 2018 through 2024. After completing his training at the patrol’s academy. He was initially stationed at the Marion Post, but then transferred to the Mansfield Post in 2023. During his short tenure as a State Trooper, he has already earned the Criminal Patrol award three times and his Physical Health and Fitness award.

Christian has shown an unwavering commitment and dedication to serving our community and is very deserving of the award.

12/19/2024

Today, at the December 19, 2024, Board of Commissioner's Meeting, Ashland County Commissioners, President Denny Bittle, Vice President James Justice, and Commissioner Michael Welch voted unanimously to make Shannon Hamilton who was the Ashland County Dog Shelter Interim Kennel Manager to Kennel Manager.