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Richland Co. Commissioners approached about reinvesting in Israel Bonds: “They share our values” (VIDEO)

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MANSFIELD –Ohio law allows county governments to invest in foreign bonds. In 2019, the Richland County Treasurer and Commissioner Board began investing in Israel Bonds at the request of local clergy. Recently the Board of Commissioners were encouraged to reinvest in Israel Bonds. According to several faith-based Israel advocates, ‘money talks.’

“Israel has never missed interest or principal payments on Israel Bonds since its inception in 1951,” says Benjamin Mutti. “After the Hamas-Israel War broke out on October 7th, more than fifteen Ohio state and municipal governments and institutions have invested in Israel Bonds in a meaningful show of support for the Jewish State. While Richland County benefits from conservative fiscal policies managed by the Board, it is my belief the county also benefits from moral clarity displayed by its elected leaders. With that said, in this current conflict, Israel carries the moral high ground and also shares our values.”

Benjamin Mutti told the Board of Commissioners, “Israel Bonds have a good return and will not let Richland County taxpayers down.” (Photo courtesy of Frontlines Ohio)

Purchases of Israel bonds do not go unnoticed. Mutti discussed with the Commissioner Board a correspondence sent by Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu to Richland County clergy leaders thanking them for being bond holders and for the County’s purchases which totaled at the time $1.25M.

Along with Mutti, several local residents with extensive involvement in Israel attended the Board of Commissioners’ meeting. Tom Culp is a retired farmer and ODOT Traffic Engineer who lives outside Lexington.  Culp and his late wife have been to Israel several times including extended periods of assisting Jewish farmers with the grape harvest.  Culp was just completing a six-week harvest stay in Israel when Hamas attacked the southern kibbutzim on October 7th. 

Stephen McElhatten is a Mansfield resident and formerly served on the Board of Directors of the Galion Chamber of Commerce. McElhatten has visited Israel five times and has guided two Israel tours totaling fifty attendees thru Shoresh Study Tours. According to McElhatten, purchasing Israel Bonds is more than a symbolic act, “It is a practical way to stand with Israel in the midst of rampant anti-Semitism” he says.

“While Richland County benefits from conservative fiscal policies managed by the Board of Commissioners, it is my belief the county also benefits from moral clarity displayed by its elected leaders. With that said, in this current conflict, Israel carries the moral high ground and also shares our values.”

Benjamin Mutti, Richland Community Prayer Network

Presently more than one hundred-fifteen state and municipal public employee pension funds and treasury funds have invested more than $5.8 billion dollars in Israel bonds. Since Israel bonds started in 1951, Israel has never missed a payment. This despite the small country going thru the Six Days War of ’67, the Yom Kippur War of ’73, the Lebanon Wars of ’78, ’82, and 2006, the Intifadas of ’87 and 2000, and the COVID pandemic.

According to the most recent Richland County Treasurer’s report, a 3-year Israel bond worth $200K will expire in December 2024. The last remaining Israel bond owned by the County, a 5-year bond worth $350K, will expire in October 2025. Richland County’s total investment in Israel Bonds represents less than half of 1% of the entire county portfolio which totals over $134M. Section 135.35 of the Ohio Revised Code allows a maximum of 2% of a county’s total average portfolio to be invested in foreign bonds.

This past week, Richland County Treasurer Bart Hamilton responded to the faith-based advocates by saying, “Israeli Bonds have been downgraded by all the rating agencies since the war started. The current rating from Moody’s is Baa1 with a negative outlook. This just barely makes it legal for me to buy. However with the negative rating, I do not feel the markets are done with the downgrades. In addition, Israel has also raised the interest rate due the to the downgrade and added risk of the notes.

During the October 17th meeting, Commissioners Tony Vero, Cliff Mears, & Darrell Banks stated, “With confidence, the Board of Commissioners gives unanimous support to Israel. It is without question 100%.” (Photo courtesy of Frontlines Ohio)

Hamilton went on to say, “I do believe the prudent position for the County is to wait for the rating situation to change and begin its climb up. With the change in Washington, I believe Israel will have the support of the Federal Government in the war efforts and hopefully that will help them stabilize the situation. Once that is done, I believe the rating will come up and it would be something we can consider at that time.”

“I am still very supportive of the Board continuing these investments,” Commissioner Tony Vero said at the hearing. “Israel Bonds are nice for portfolio diversity and are a symbol of our County’s support for Israel.”

Commissioner Darrell Banks added, “We have to protect the citizen’s taxpayer dollars. During my Army service, I visited the Dachau Concentration Camp Memorial. With all the terrorists that are here in the U.S. and in Israel, we need to support Israel… I am hoping we can work something out.”

The Bottom Line:

The Bible says in Matthew 25, “The King will reply, ‘Truly I tell you, whatever you did for one of the least of these brothers and sisters of mine, you did for me.”

View video of presentation by faith-based Israel advocates to the Richland County Board of Commissioners on October 17th. (15 min.)

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40 clergy see immediate returns after Richland County invests in Israeli bonds (VIDEO)

93 Ohio clergy from Buckeye Bible Belt encourage Ohioans to “VOTE NO” on Issue 1 (VIDEO)

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NORTH CENTRAL OHIO — On November 5th, Ohioans will decide on Issue 1 and whether to “VOTE NO” to prevent an unelected commission from overseeing the redistricting process. This important map-making process will impact ninety-nine state representatives, thirty-three state senators, and fifteen members of Congress. A group of Ohio faith leaders are speaking out on this proposed Constitutional Amendment and believe Issue 1 may be moving boundary stones that should not be moved.

“It is our opinion Issue 1 will take away the power from the people,” says Pastor David Mahon, one of the ninety-plus clergy cosigners of an open letter opposing the amendment. “If Issue 1 passes, the proposed amendment would repeal constitutional protections against gerrymandering approved by nearly three-quarters of Ohio electors participating in the statewide elections of 2015 and 2018. Issue 1 would also eliminate the longstanding ability of Ohio citizens to hold their representatives accountable for establishing fair state legislative and congressional districts,” Mahon said.

Ohioans supported Donald Trump (in red) by a 53-45% margin in the 2020 Presidential elections. (Photo courtesy of Wikipedia)

The clergy wrote in their open letter, “As key stakeholders leading ninety-thee diverse congregations across fourteen counties, we formally oppose the radical Issue 1 which will allow unelected and unaccountable individuals to take away our right to ensure our government works. This Fall on Tuesday, November 5th, we encourage Ohioans to protect our elections from foreign interference, and “VOTE NO” on Issue 1.”

The Ohio faith community has consistently advocated for election integrity and believe no congressional map process is perfect. Issue 1 will require new taxpayer-funded costs on the State of Ohio to pay newly-appointed commission members, appointed special masters, private consultants, and an unlimited amount for legal expenses incurred by the proposed commission. The faith leaders believe Issue 1 will give a blank check to unaccountable officials and hijack the will of the voters.

The clergy wrote, “If we follow the money, this scheme is supported by the Washington D.C.-based 1630 Fund, the anti-GOD ACLU, and George Soros’ Open Society. These out-of-state interests openly oppose the Judeo-Christian values that make our Buckeye State so great.

“If we follow the money, this scheme (Issue 1) is supported by the Washington D.C. based 1630 Fund, the anti-GOD ACLU, and George Soros’ Open Society. These out of state interests openly oppose the Judeo-Christian values that make our Buckeye State so great.”

Ninety-three lead clergy from Ohio opposing Issue 1 in open letter

“The Bible says in 2 Peter 3, “You therefore, beloved, since you know this beforehand, beware lest you also fall from your own steadfastness, being led away with the error of the wicked.”

According to the faith leaders, an approved constitutional amendment “is much harder to reverse than laws which can be changed with each legislative session. If this convoluted Issue 1 passes, the Ohio Legislature will not be able to modify or regulate this language. Further, this unreasonable language cannot be challenged in Ohio’s Supreme Court since the Court is obligated by law to abide by the State Constitution as approved by the Ohio voters.”

Pastor David Guild, another clergy cosigner, believes wisdom cries aloud in the streets. “Issue 1 is not good for Ohioans. Issue 1 yard signs supporting the amendment say it will remove gerrymandering. But the actual ballot language says on the second point that it will bring gerrymandering; this is false advertising. I encourage people to read the ballot language for themselves.”

In 2021, Ohio clergymen addressed issues regarding election integrity and voting machines with the local Board of Elections. (Photo courtesy of Frontlines Ohio)

According to the ballot language, Issue 1 will create an appointed redistricting commission not elected by or subject to removal by the voters of the state. It would also prevent a commission member from being removed except by a vote of their fellow commission members, even for incapacity, willful neglect of duty, or gross misconduct.

One pastor is very familiar with Issue 1 and the congressional map process. Pastor Gary Click serves as State Representative and says there is no gerrymandering in the current bipartisan maps. Click’s own district consists of the rectangular Seneca and Sandusky Counties.

“Democrats do not have a gerrymandering problem, they have a woke agenda problem,” Click says. “The Democrat Party is leaving moderates out who do not believe men should compete in women’s sports or that children should have sex-change operations. The Democrats are going so woke that they are going broke. Their Issue 1 will create a bureaucracy that citizens will have no part in. I urge you to “VOTE NO” on Issue 1.”

The Bottom Line:

The Bible says in Psalm 16, “LORD, You alone are my portion and my cup; You make my lot secure. The boundary lines have fallen for me in pleasant places; surely I have a delightful inheritance.”

View video of State Representative and Pastor Gary Click explaining Ohio Issue 1 (13 min.)

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101 Ohio clergy endorse Donald Trump for President: “You are a man of destiny” (VIDEO)

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NORTH CENTRAL OHIO — As the Deep State is playing hardball for the upcoming Presidential election, Ohio clergy are going to bat for Donald Trump. Taking a page from history, over one hundred faith leaders put their support in writing this week in an open letter to Donald Trump.

“Thank you for your courage in fighting systemic corruption in Washington D.C.  As Ohio faith leaders, we believe you are a man of destiny.  During your journey to become the forty-seventh President, whether thru lawfare or warfare, you have literally ‘taken the bullet’ on our behalf.  After eight shots were fired during the July 13th Butler, PA rally, you came within a quarter-inch and millisecond of your life being taken.  After one of the most widely seen miracles, you aptly gave credit to our Heavenly Father, stating, “It was GOD alone who prevented the unthinkable from happening.”  We are reminded this fateful event took place just forty-seven miles away from a second historic place.

In 2020, over one hundred lead clergy sent a letter to President Trump thanking him for his policies supporting faith, family & freedom. (Photo courtesy of Frontlines Ohio)

“Another prominent American figure was also divinely protected during the Battle of Monongahela in the French and Indian War.  As American and British troops were being slaughtered, every mounted officer had been shot except for one.  George Washington had four bullets through his coat and two horses shot from underneath him yet survived. In a letter to his brother, Washington wrote: “By the miraculous care of Providence, I have been protected beyond all human probability or expectation.”  In fact, one of the combatants in the battle, Chief Red Hawk, later told Washington that he shot at him eleven times but was unable to hit him. From then on, Washington was considered “bulletproof” as many felt GOD’s Divine hand of protection was on him. 

“With the help of Divine Providence, Mr. Trump, perhaps the same can be said of you. It is our observation, when adversity hits, you have risen to the occasion. Pressure has not killed you- it has revealed you.” The clergy went on and gave some examples.

“While over one-hundred Ohio clergymen thanked you in 2020 for your policies that promote faith, family, and freedom, as one hundred-one lead clergymen with congregations across twenty-two Ohio counties, we want to go further and formally endorse you to become the forty-seventh President of the United States of America.”

Open letter to Donald Trump by lead clergymen representing twenty-two Ohio counties

“When a violent mob struck Washington D.C. in 2020 involving a lockdown at the White House and an arson at the historic St. John’s Church, you responded the next day after the riot.  As President of law and order, amidst the defacing of monuments and desecration of churches nationwide, you stood up for America’s Judeo-Christian heritage and boldly held the Bible up into the air for the world to see. 

“When an anti-Semitic U.N. resolution passed in 2017, one week later, as Commander in Chief, you opposed the globalist agenda and declared the U.S. Embassy would be moving to Jerusalem.  Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu compared your courageous declaration to the proclamation made by the Persian King Cyrus the Great.

“When a train carrying hazardous materials tragically derailed and exploded in East Palestine, Ohio in 2023, three weeks later you met with local leaders, provided supplies, and gave courage to affected Ohioans. The sitting President visited East Palestine fifty-one weeks after your visit.

Ohio clergy wrote they believe the evangelicals who did not vote in the 2020 election are partly responsible for the nation’s woes. (Photo courtesy of Frontlines Ohio)

“In closing, it is our opinion that since our divided nation no longer has secured borders, the country has regretfully become a proverbial train wreck.  We believe the forty-five million evangelicals who do not regularly vote are partly responsible for this condition. Silence is an endorsement of the direction this nation is going.   

“While over one-hundred Ohio clergymen thanked you in 2020 for your policies that promote faith, family, and freedom, as one hundred-one lead clergymen with congregations across twenty-two Ohio counties, we want to go further and formally endorse you to become the forty-seventh President of the United States of America.  Based on your record, we believe you are the best choice to uphold our GOD-given inalienable rights and to uphold the U.S. Constitution.  With the focus on Almighty GOD as our wellspring and not the government, it is our belief stability can return to our nation.

The faith leaders closed their letter with a Bible passage from Isaiah 33, saying, “Wisdom and knowledge shall be the stability of thy times, and strength of salvation: the fear of the LORD is his treasure.”

According to Pastor J.C. Church, one of the cosigners, Ohio counties with the most endorsing clergy in the letter include: Richland, Ashland, Crawford, Trumbull, Knox, Stark, and Wayne. Another cosigner, Dr. Ricky Branham, hopes their letter will encourage other Christians to vote their Biblical values this November 5th.

The Bottom Line:

The Bible says in Proverbs 29, “When the righteous are in authority, the people rejoice, but when a wicked man rules, the people groan.”

View video of Over 100 Ohio Clergymen endorse Donald Trump for President (5 min.)

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Israeli leader comes to Ohio Heartland: “The issues we see with Israel demand a response” (SLIDESHOW) (VIDEO)

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Eeki Elner said, "This letter is not just to the Ambassador of Israel, this clergy letter is also to the Jewish people." (Photo courtesy of Frontlines Ohio)

ONTARIO– Local faith leaders hosted a luncheon at the Sar Shalom Center Thursday to hear a boots-on- the-ground report on Israel. During the meeting, a letter addressed to the Israeli Ambassador and signed by one hundred-fifteen clergy was given to the keynote speaker. The letter supported the Jewish State’s right to the Biblical Promise Land and promised staunch support no matter who occupies the Oval Office.

“At a time where there is great hostility towards Israel, this is a true effort showing your dedication to maintain our friendship,” said Eeki Elner, President and Founder of the Israeli Leadership Institute. “This letter is not just to the Ambassador of Israel, this clergy letter is also to the Jewish people,” he said.

Eeki Elner spoke Thursday discussing the hostility Israel faces from its neighbors and the U.N. “They routinely pass one-sided resolutions condemning us. At some point they will say the only place Israelis can live is on the moon.” (Photo courtesy of Frontlines Ohio)

Elner has been meeting with faith leaders around the county garnering support for Israel during the ongoing war in the Middle East. “From my experience being with him in his home in Haifa and travelling all over the nation with him, I would say Eeki Elner is a man of great courage, conviction, and character,” Pastor J.C. Church said at the luncheon. “Make no mistake the hand of the LORD is upon Eeki.”

During the October 7th massacre, Elner shared that fifteen of his friends were murdered by Hamas terrorists. But that was not the only attack Israel endured. “The next day, Hezbollah began shooting rockets from the north towards Israel,” Elner said. “We are not a big nation, it is by the grace of GOD and friendship with America that we have won past wars; but this war has taken its toll on us. During this war, people are not investing in Israel as before. Our national budget is stretched due to the costs from the wars in both the north and the south. People are really devastated by what has happened.”

Pastor Church told attendees he believes these are extraordinary times. “We are living in the most defining moment of our lives. The issues we see involving Israel and the moral madness in our nation demands a response by every leader in every arena,” the Crawford County Pastor said. “We can no longer hide from the issues like some choose to do. This is the most pressure-packed moment in the history of our life, our ministries, and our nation. GOD has us here for such a time as this.”

“There can be no ceasefire in the Middle East with an enemy that wants you dead. The Bible says the covenant GOD has made with Israel is everlasting. GOD stands with Israel and not standing with Israel is not standing with GOD.”

Pastor J.C. Church

Pastor Church believes that pressure can reveal a person. “This is the most revealing moment we have ever been in. Sadly today, this issue of supporting Israel is exposing many. One pastor told me he did not address the issue of Israel with his congregation ‘because it was too sensitive today.’ No, it is not too sensitive, it is just exposing you as a coward, that is what the issue of Israel is doing. I do not know what Bible you are reading, but we have to be clear the herd is being thinned right now.

“This issue of supporting Israel, like so many other moral issues has been hijacked to the point that people think they are political instead of the moral issues that they are. There can be no ceasefire in the Middle East with an enemy that wants you dead. The Word of GOD is infallible, without error, and give us our direction. Psalms 105:10 says the covenant GOD has made with Israel is everlasting. GOD stands with Israel, and not standing with Israel is not standing with GOD.”

In addition to the thirty faith leaders, also attending were: State Representative Marilyn John, Mansfield City Councilman Reverend El Akuchie, Judge Steve McKinley, Ontario Safety Service Director Adam Gongwer, and Caroline Bick, District Director with Congressman Jim Jordan‘s office.

Pastor J.C. Church tells faith leaders not to avoid controversial issues like Israel. “The greatest thing GOD can trust you with is the one thing most run fastest from: trouble.” (Photo courtesy of Frontlines Ohio)

“The fight is not just with the elections that are coming or the military aid going to Israel,” said Elner. The fight is also to educate the next generation of Americans on their commitment to the Bible, to Judeo-Christian values, and the American heritage.”

“I love Ohio, I think Ohio is the heart of America. I speak in other states in America and you will never find me saying the same thing about another state. I think Ohio has a power and spirit that can change America. Ohio has always been a leader. There are much bigger Jewish communities in New York in Los Angeles or Miami. There are not many large communities of Jewish people here (in Ohio.) But it is the Christian community here that has always supported Israel so strongly.”

Rabbi William Hallbrook encouraged the attendees. “Stand with Israel because in GOD’s Word, Israel is both tied to the past and Israel is prophetically-tied to the future. Our destinies are connected; we are one. I encourage you to be vocal and to support Israel with your resources.”

The Bottom Line:

The Bible says in Psalm 105, “GOD remembers His covenant forever, the promise He made for a thousand generations, the covenant He made with Abraham, the oath He swore to Isaac. He confirmed it to Jacob as a decree, to Israel as an everlasting covenant.”

View slideshow from clergy luncheon at the Ontario Sar Shalom Center on September 26th.

  • Rabbi William Hallbrook shared a miraculous account of enemy rockets from Hezbollah changing course as people prayed. (Photo courtesy of Frontlines Ohio)
  • Pastor Jeff Mills said the hearts of Ohio faith leaders collectively beat for Israel. (Photo courtesy of Frontlines Ohio)
  • Pastor Mike Rose said it is no coincidence a recent archaeological discovery was unearthed verifying Biblical account of Jerusalem’s rescue. (Photo courtesy of Frontlines Ohio)
  • Pastor Russell Stanford commented both America and Israel’s shared Judeo-Christian morals have been ambushed. (Photo courtesy of Frontlines Ohio)
  • Pastor J.C. Church said “Eeki Elner is a man of great courage, conviction, and character.” (Photo courtesy of Frontlines Ohio)
  • State Rep. Marilyn John pictured with Eeki Elner of the Israeli Leadership Institute. (Photo courtesy of Frontlines Ohio)
  • Pastor Jeff Mills said the hearts of Ohio faith leaders collectively beat for Israel. (Photo courtesy of Frontlines Ohio)
  • Eeki Elner spoke to faith leaders and elected officials at the Ontario Sar Shalom Center on September 26th. (Photo courtesy of Frontlines Ohio)
  • Pastor Mike Rose said it is no coincidence a recent archaeological discovery was unearthed verifying Biblical account of Jerusalem’s rescue. (Photo courtesy of Frontlines Ohio)
  • Carolyn Bick, District Director with Congressman Jim Jordan’s Office pictured with Eeki Elner of the Israeli Leadership Institute. (Photo courtesy of Frontlines Ohio)
  • Pastor Russell Stanford commented both America and Israel’s shared Judeo-Christian morals have been ambushed. (Photo courtesy of Frontlines Ohio)
  • Pastor J.C. Church said “GOD stands with Israel, and not standing with Israel is not standing with GOD.” (Photo courtesy of Frontlines Ohio)
  • Fifty-two Muslim states and twenty-two Arab states encircling the only Jewish state the size of New Jersey.
  • Rabbi William Hallbrook commented that the destiny of believers and Israel are connected. (Photo courtesy of Frontlines Ohio)
  • Pastor J.C. Church tells faith leaders not to avoid controversial issues like Israel. (Photo courtesy of Frontlines Ohio)
  • Eeki Elner said “There are not many large Jewish communities (in Ohio.) But it is the Christian community here that has always supported Israel so strongly. (Photo courtesy of Frontlines Ohio)
  • Eeki Elner said, “This letter is not just to the Ambassador of Israel, this clergy letter is also to the Jewish people.” (Photo courtesy of Frontlines Ohio)

View video of the clergy luncheon at Ontario Sar Shalom Center on Thursday, September 26th. (Duration 58 min.)

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115 Ohio Clergy pen letter to Ambassador as war intensifies: “Our heart beats collectively for Israel”

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ONTARIO — While a ground war appears imminent in Lebanon, a group of Ohio clergy unearthed some Biblical truth in a clergy letter they want delivered to the Israeli Ambassador. Their messenger, Mr. Eeki Elner of the Israeli Leadership Institute, visited the Sar Shalom Center on Thursday to meet with faith leaders. The clergy letter Elner is to deliver was heartfelt.

“Mr. Ambassador, we mourn with you over the tragic loss of the six Israeli hostages who were recently murdered in cold blood by Hamas, said Pastor Russell Stanford, one of the letter’s cosigners and spokesmen for the group of faith leaders. “Our prayers go to their families and loved ones. We regret that the Jewish people are vilified for the alleged “crime” of living in their own ancestral homeland,” the Richland County pastor said.  “Not only has your country’s Biblical right to exist been attacked, our shared Judeo-Christian morals have also been ambushed.

Pictured are several lead clergy cosigners of a letter expressing support of Israel. Top row (L to R): Les Farley, Michael Rose, Michael Humphrey; bottom row: Jeff Mills, Rick Wiseman, Doug Tackett, & Russell Stanford. (Photo courtesy of Frontlines Ohio)

“As one hundred-fifteen faith leaders from Ohio, we would like to thank you for your ongoing efforts in maintaining diplomatic ties between the American and Israeli governments,” Stanford said.  “We are having one of your faith-based ambassadors, Mr. Eeki Elner, send this correspondence to you after he returns from his Ontario, Ohio visit. While diplomatic ties at the national level are unsettled and federal support of Israel tenuous, due to the efforts of Mr. Elner, we confidently report ties between the Ohio faith community and Israel remains unshakeable and support for the Jewish State robust.” 

The group of lead clergy wrote, “One month following the October 7th massacre, over one hundred-fifty lead clergy from across twenty Ohio counties raised money for Jewish terror victims, prayed for the safe release of the Israeli hostages, and declared the surprise attack on innocent Israeli civilians ‘an act of genocide.”  The faith leaders also stated the Nation of Israel was within its right as a sovereign nation to defend its Jewish and Arab citizens by eliminating its enemies. “While Israel did not start this war or want this war, we believe Israel should hold Hamas and jihadists in the region accountable,” the faith leaders said. 

The clergymen believe that after concluding war on the western front, and beginning preparations for war on the northern front, it could be easy for the Nation of Israel to lose hope.

“While diplomatic ties at the national level are unsettled and federal support of Israel tenuous, due to the efforts of Mr. Elner, we confidently report ties between the Ohio faith community and Israel remains unshakeable and support for the Jewish State robust.” 

Ohio clergy letter sent to Israeli Ambassador Michael Herzog

“Mr. Ambassador, with fifty-two Muslim states and twenty-two Arab states encircling the only Jewish state the size of New Jersey, it would be easy to think your country is outnumbered,” Pastor Mike Rose, another clergy spokesman said. The Crawford County Pastor gave a list of Israeli concerns: “With constant rocket barrages from Hamas and Hezbollah, with missile attacks by the Houthis, with calls for extermination by the Iranian Ayatollahs, with U.N. resolutions calling for Israel’s eviction from your Biblical homeland, and last but not least, with threats by the Biden Administration to embargo military aid, it would be easy for your nation to think you are outgunned.” Rose went on to say,  “But as faith leaders, we want to assure you that there are more with you than with them.”

The Ohio faith leaders went to the Bible when consoling the Ambassador and Jewish State. They referenced the account of King Hezekiah who made prayers on behalf of the Jewish people, and the Assyrian King Sennacherib made threats against the Jewish people and surrounded Jerusalem with his army. According to the Scriptures, an angel of the LORD delivered Jerusalem and struck 185,000 Assyrian soldiers dead in one night. (2 Kings 19). “It is no coincidence a recent archaeological discovery was unearthed verifying this epic Biblical account,” Reverend Rose pointed out. 

In June 2024, ruins with the ancient Arabic name “Khirbet al Mudawwara” were investigated by using modern mapping techniques to identify the remains of the ancient Assyrian military camp from 700 B.C. As a result, archeologists have now connected Ammunition Hill with Sennacherib’s Jerusalem military camp.  Pastor Rose commented, “Isaiah 37 and Second Chronicles 32 also mention this amazing account of GOD striking the 185,000 Assyrians dead, demonstrating that the Biblical Scriptures are authentic, true, and accurate.”

Ohio Faith leaders representing twenty counties presented a clergy letter of support at a September 26th clergy luncheon to Israeli Ambassador Michael Herzog. (Photo courtesy of Frontlines Ohio)

Prior to the miraculous defeat of the Assyrian troops, 2 Chronicles 32 records, “And Hezekiah set captains of war over the people, and gathered them together to him in the street of the gates of the Jerusalem, and spoke comfortably to them, saying, ‘Be strong and courageous, be not afraid nor dismayed for the King of Assyria, nor for all the multitude that is with him: for there be more with us than with him: With him is an arm of flesh; but with us is the Lord our GOD to help us, and to fight our battles.”

Ashland County Pastor Jeff Mills remarked, “Our state’s slogan is ‘Ohio: the heart of it all.’  As lead clergymen representing one hundred-fifteen Ohio congregations across twenty counties, our heart collectively beats for the State of Israel, which is the apple of GOD’s eye.  Ambassador Herzog, no matter how massive the army was that encamped around Israel, against all odds the Jewish State survived. This Biblical account from 700 B.C. of the failed Assyrian siege of Jerusalem is a vivid reminder that the Bible is true and accurate.” Dr. Mills went on to say, “Rest assured, no matter who occupies the Oval Office, always remember the Ohio faith community stands with the Jewish State and her right to the Biblical Promise Land.”

Support from the Ohio faith leaders has been ongoing. Clergy co-signers listed in the correspondence have congregations located in twenty different counties throughout Ohio.  Counties with the most congregations represented include: Richland, Crawford, Ashland, Trumbull, and Morrow. Last April a group of Ohio faith leaders gave a joint statement following the Iranian rocket attack on Israel where ninety-nine percent of the projectiles were miraculously shot down. The clergy cited the Bible passage: ‘No weapon formed against you shall prosper.’

The Bottom Line:

The Bible says in First Kings 19, “King Hezekiah received the letter from the messengers and read it. Then he went up to the temple of the LORD and spread it out before the LORD. And Hezekiah prayed to the LORD: “LORD, the GOD of Israel, enthroned between the cherubim, You alone are GOD over all the kingdoms of the Earth. You have made heaven and earth. Give ear LORD and hear…”

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Shelby March for Jesus: “There is no greater cause to march for…” (SLIDESHOW) (VIDEO)

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Faith leaders believe the August 17th march helped show there were churches and pastors in Shelby that are unified and that love their city. (Photo courtesy of Frontlines Ohio)

SHELBY –Marchers were walking on sunshine as area churches recently held a procession in downtown Main Street. An assembly also took place following the march at the new Black Fork Commons Amphitheater with worship music, special speakers, and public baptisms.

According to the Event Coordinator, the Shelby ‘March for Jesus’ is having a positive effect on the city. “This event is bringing our community together with one purpose. Jesus represents hope and love for every single person,” says Toni Wilson. “Being visible outside the four walls of the Church really can influence the community.”

Over two-hundred-fifty participated in the ‘March for Jesus’ in downtown Shelby, Ohio on August 17th. (Photo courtesy of Frontlines Ohio)

Pastor Doug Tackett of Taylortown Community Church saw the march as an answer to his prayers. “I called Toni and told her this march was something I have been praying years for. I was thrilled with everything I saw. The gathering at the Amphitheater was well attended; my hope is this will be the beginning of what Shelby needs. The Church of Jesus Christ needs to make a showing so the citizenss of Shelby knows we exist and we care,” the Pastor said.

Wilson, a fifteen-year Shelby resident, noticed something over the years that always bothered her. “Living on one of the main thoroughfares in the city, I noticed our community has parades for Christmas, Memorial Day, Bicycle Days, and Halloween, but I thought to myself, what about a March for Jesus? There is no greater cause to march for, than to march for Jesus.”

Pastor Rick Lewis of Shelby Connect Church agrees with Wilson. “I think it’s a great time for us as Christians and churches and pastors to come together and show unity. Jesus said that is how the world is going to know that you are My disciples, by the love you have for one another. We have got to start showing that. And I believe that Saturday helped show there are churches and pastors in Shelby that are unified and who love our city.

“As a Body, the goal was to let Shelby know Jesus is King, His church is alive and moving, and we will not sit back and let the enemy take ground. It was a great day to proclaim our Lord and savior and glorify Him.”

Pastor Hank Webb

Bishop Anthony Cooper of Kingdom Life Church also attended the ‘March for Jesus.’ “I personally feel that the march was a great success and the beginning of many more faith-based community events. I want to thank all the community of Shelby and the churches for all their support. I am also thankful for the lives that accepted Jesus Christ as their Savior. Shelby has become the ‘City of Hope.'”

Toni Wilson’s Pastor says she brought the idea of a march up to him ten months ago. Pastor Hank Web of Belmont 96 Church thought the event would be worthwhile and could change lives. “We saw two souls proclaim Christ as their Savior the day of the march which made the whole day worth it,” says Webb. “We also heard there were people on porches eight streets over that could hear the preaching and singing from the amphitheater. As a Body, the goal was to let Shelby know Jesus is King, His church is alive and moving, and we will not sit back and let the enemy take ground. It was a great day to proclaim our Lord and savior and glorify Him.”

One of the marchers during the procession had a megaphone and declared “No bondage, no chains!” and the crowd responded “Jesus set me free!” According to Pastor Webb, he was moved. “When I heard that part going down Main Street, the Holy Spirit moved upon me and I knew that this would be a great thing for the Shelby area. Especially given some of the things that have taken place in our area recently.”

Shelby, Ohio joined thirty-one other cities in the U.S. to hold a ‘March for Jesus’ in 2024. The public procession celebrates the Lordship of Jesus Christ. (Photo courtesy of Frontlines Ohio)

The local event is part of a greater movement that has been going on for some time. According to the ‘March for Jesus‘ website, the march is “a procession of praise through the streets of the city, celebrating the Lordship of Jesus Christ and culminating in a grand worship event in which Christians publicly proclaim the Glory, the Majesty and the Supremacy of the Savior.  It’s all about Jesus and nothing else.”

The idea of a ‘March for Jesus’ is no stranger to North Central Ohio. In 1992, Christians openly exalted Christ in over one-hundred-forty cities and twenty-five European countries; Mansfield, Ohio was one of those cities. It is believed a total of three-hundred-thousand marched for Jesus in the United States that year. In 2024 there were ‘March for Jesus’ events in thirty-one cities across eighteen states held on Pentecost Weekend. Youngstown, Ohio , which has held marches for several consecutive years, was one of those cities.

According to Pastor Webb, “The whole key to this event was no one Church got credit nor put their name on the event. The only name attached to the event was “JESUS” and it is His Church that is coming together.”

The Bottom Line:

The Bible says in Philippians Chapter 2, “Then make my joy complete by being like-minded, having the same love, being one in spirit and of one mind.“

View slideshow of Shelby ‘March for Jesus‘ on West Main Street from August 17th

  • Event Coordinator Toni Wilson (standing) pictured with her family at the Black Fork Amphitheater. (Photo Submitted)
  • Marchers could be heard chanting, “No bondage, no chains!” and the crowd responded “Jesus set me free!” (Photo courtesy of Frontlines Ohio)
  • On August 17th, Shelby, Ohio hosted a ‘March for Jesus’ to glorify Christ. (Photo courtesy of Frontlines Ohio)
  • Following the march, attendees gathered at the Black Fork Amphitheater for worship music, public baptisms, and special speakers. (Photo courtesy of Frontlines Ohio)
  • Over two-hundred-fifty participated in the Shelby ‘March for Jesus. The march brought the community together with one purpose. (Photo courtesy of Frontlines Ohio)
  • On August 17th, Shelby, Ohio hosted a ‘March for Jesus’ to glorify Christ. (Photo courtesy of Frontlines Ohio)
  • Marchers could be heard chanting, “No bondage, no chains!” and the crowd responded “Jesus set me free!” (Photo courtesy of Frontlines Ohio)
  • Over two-hundred-fifty participated in the Shelby ‘March for Jesus. The march brought the community together with one purpose. (Photo courtesy of Frontlines Ohio)
  • Following the march, attendees gathered at the Black Fork Amphitheater for worship music, public baptisms, and special speakers. (Photo courtesy of Frontlines Ohio)
  • Faith leaders believe the August 17th march helped show there were churches and pastors in Shelby that are unified and that love their city. (Photo courtesy of Frontlines Ohio)
  • On August 17th, Shelby, Ohio hosted a ‘March for Jesus’ to glorify Christ. (Photo courtesy of Frontlines Ohio)
  • Marchers could be heard chanting, “No bondage, no chains!” and the crowd responded “Jesus set me free!” (Photo courtesy of Frontlines Ohio)
  • Over two-hundred-fifty participated in the Shelby ‘March for Jesus. The march brought the community together with one purpose. (Photo courtesy of Frontlines Ohio)
  • Faith leaders believe the August 17th march helped show there were churches and pastors in Shelby that are unified and that love their city. (Photo courtesy of Frontlines Ohio)

View video from WKBN newscast on the ‘March for Jesus’ event in Youngstown, Ohio from 2021. (40 seconds)

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150 Clergy declare 2019 as “Year of the Bible” in North Central Ohio (VIDEO)

LifeWise ‘raises the roof’ in dedication of New London schoolhouse (SLIDESHOW) (VIDEO)

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On Wednesday, LifeWise Academy held a open house dedication of its newest facility for its New London franchise. (Photo courtesy of Frontlines Ohio)

NEW LONDON –At a time when public schools are becoming more hostile to Biblical values, something is happening during school in the Ohio Firelands region. Although eight in ten American youth may not attend church, nine out of ten youth attend public schools. Faith leaders are picking up on this and a group of pastors in one community have partnered together to reach the next generation in public schools with a Bible program during school hours.

Last week residents celebrated their success by opening a new schoolhouse to host the Bible-based LifeWise Academy that is spreading like wildfire across the nation. Last year over a quarter of the New London student body were transported a half-mile away by bus to attend LifeWise classes, but with a new brick and mortar building literally next door to the High School campus, that number is expected to climb as students are just a hop, skip, and jump away.

Pastor John Bouquet addresses the one hundred-twenty in attendance at the open house dedication of the New London LifeWise schoolhouse. (Photo courtesy of Frontlines Ohio)

One pastor who has been instrumental in promoting the Bible-based LifeWise Academy in public schools believes communities like New London can turn the tide. “I believe that if the life-changing book (Bible) taught in this program is adopted by school boards across this nation, we can actually redeem the years we have lost,” Pastor John Bouquet said at the schoolhouse dedication. “If one atheist got school-sanctioned Bible-reading and prayer taken out of public schools, just think how much more impact a community of believers like this one here in New London can have in influencing the next generation. It all happens by getting the Bible back in the hands of students during school hours.”

The Ohio-based LifeWise Academy is a released-time religious instruction program providing Bible-based character education to public school students. The parachurch ministry works alongside local churches and started in 2019. LifeWise takes place off school grounds, is not federally or state-funded, and requires parents’ permission for students to participate. Enrollment in LifeWise Academy is entirely optional.

In 1952, the U.S. Supreme Court ruled in favor of allowing public schools to release students to off-campus sites to study the Bible during the school day. More recently in 2013, the Ohio General Assembly passed a law allowing school boards to reward school credits for released time religious instruction if taught at the high school level. Classes are the length of a normal class period and then students are released and return to school to proceed with their day.

“If one atheist got school-sanctioned Bible-reading and prayer taken out of public schools, just think how much more impact a community of believers like this one here in New London can have in influencing the next generation. It all happens by getting the Bible back in the hands of students during school hours.”

Pastor John Bouquet

This year LifeWise Academy is in over three-hundred-fifty school districts across twenty-six states. The New London chapter of LifeWise started in the Fall of 2021 for students K thru twelve, and is one of the first schools in the North Central Ohio area to implement the program. In addition to New London Schools, other public school districts in Huron County, Ohio with LifeWise Academy include: Norwalk, South Central, Western Reserve, Plymouth-Shiloh, Firelands Local, Buckeye Central, and Edison Local. Nearby Ashland County has LifeWise Academy in everyone of its school districts.

The New London Faith Group, which helped finance and build the schoolhouse for students enrolled in LifeWise Academy, is a nonprofit organization made up of local churches. Pastors in the faith group comprise of: Mark Kilgrove of Fitchville Community Church, Brent Ziegler of Rochester Baptist Church, Doug Lang of New London Alliance Church, David Whitt of New London Methodist, John Bouquet of Savannah Bethel Chapel, Bill Given of New London Faith Group, and Jerry Shirley of New London First Baptist.

Buddy Workman oversees the New London LifeWise program as the Northeast Ohio Field Representative. He believes the New London community has given overwhelming support. “We have been extremely fortunate to have eight different churches in town donating financially and also donating their time as volunteers. With over two-hundred-thirty students enrolled in LifeWise Academy in New London, our Superintendent and Principal have been great to work with, and they see the difference in the students who participate.”

Lead local clergymen pose together in front of the New London LifeWise schoolhouse. Pictured L to R: Mark Kilgrove, Brent Ziegler, Doug Lang, David Whitt, John Bouquet, Bill Given, Jerry Shirley (Photo courtesy of Frontlines Ohio)

A comprehensive report released by Thomas P. Miller & Associates (TPMA) showcases the impact of LifeWise Academy’s Bible education programs. TPMA, a renowned national consulting firm headquartered in Indianapolis, Indiana, conducted the study to measure the implications of LifeWise Academy’s programming.

The study was based on data from seventy-six schools in Ohio, Indiana, and Iowa with LifeWise programming in place for multiple years prior to the 2021-22 school year. Findings showed that in the first year of LifeWise programming, a school’s attendance rate increased. From the second year on, schools saw improvements in discipline. The report said, “These results lead to an increased number of students in school every day with less disruptions, which should improve the learning environment for all students, whether they were in the program (LifeWise) or not.”

“There are almost thirty New London students who take advantage of the high school credits awarded for released time religious instruction,” says Workman. “I think the School Board is realizing that when graduating students are walking across that stage to get their diploma, they have provided an opportunity for the next generation of leaders to get a well-rounded education, instructing not just their intellect, but equipping their body, mind, and soul.”

The Bottom Line:

The Bible says in Proverbs 1, “The fear of the LORD is the beginning of knowledge, but fools despise wisdom and instruction”

View slideshow of Wednesday’s open house dedication of the New London LifeWise Academy schoolhouse.

  • The new LifeWise Academy schoolhouse sits adjacent to the New London Public School campus on Wildcat Drive. (Photo courtesy of Frontlines Ohio)
  • Bill Given of the New London Faith Group shares about the generous financial support the group has gotten. (Photo courtesy of Frontlines Ohio)
  • New London Schools is one of eight public school districts in Huron County that have LifeWise Academy programs established during school hours. (Photo courtesy of Frontlines Ohio)
  • LifeWise Academy Regional Director Buddy Workman comments on the 8 local churches who provide volunteers and financial resources: “We are extremely fortunate.” (Photo courtesy of Frontlines Ohio)
  • Local clergy collaborating as New London Faith Group, which built the LifeWise Academy schoolhouse adjacent to the public school campus. (Photo courtesy of Frontlines Ohio)
  • Pastor John Bouquet addresses the one hundred-twenty in attendance at the open house dedication of the New London LifeWise schoolhouse. (Photo courtesy of Frontlines Ohio)
  • On Wednesday, LifeWise Academy held a open house dedication of its newest facility for its New London franchise. (Photo courtesy of Frontlines Ohio)

View the LifeWise Academy New London, Ohio impact video (4 min.)

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Ohio pastor says Olympic opening ceremony not singular event: “Will America choose this same pagan path?”

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SALEM — An uproar took place in response to the recent opening ceremony of the Olympics in Paris. The most globally-watched drag show in history included depravity involving the mockery of the famous painting of DaVinci’s “The Last Supper.” The scene included a drag queen taking the place of Jesus and twelve other LGBTQ members representing the disciples. But ultimately GOD got the last word in Paris.

One Ohio pastor believes the debacle that took place during the Olympics hosted by France was not a singular event, but rather a symptomatic event stemming back from a history of secular humanism absent from GOD.

This blasphemous scene from the Olympic opening ceremony (above) mocks Da Vinci’s scene in the Sistine Chapel of ‘The Last Supper.’ (below) (Photo courtesy of Jonathan Cahn Screenshot)

“The controversial Olympic opening ceremony should elicit questions in our mind that should precipitate inside the heart and mind of every American,” says Pastor Timothy Ginter. “How did France get to this place? What will America choose? What must we do?”

The Lead Pastor of ‘The Church at the Center’ believes America is in danger of choosing a culture of paganism that rejects GOD. He points to history for a better understanding. While both the United States and France had revolutions a decade apart and both considered republics, the similarities seem to end there.

“Proverbs 14:12 says ‘There is a way that seems right to man, but its end leads to death,’ says Pastor Ginter. “The American Revolution was based on Judeo-Christian values while the French Revolution was based on anti-GOD secular values that removed Christian influence from society.”

During the French Revolution, many churches were desecrated, including the Cathedral of Notre Dame where the altar was disassembled and replaced with an alter dedicated to “secular enlightment.” Church masses were also banned. French Sociologist Alexis de Tocqueville noted these differences.

“The duty belongs to us, the results belong to GOD…. We can see America lit again if you and I would just put a lamp out in front of our own houses. If you and I can just do what we can do, we will stop the darkness that is seeking to envelope this nation and drive it away.”

Pastor Timothy Ginter

Also during the Revolution, the French began consuming their own. With the new invention of the guillotine, one million French citizens had been eliminated by 1802; even the founder of the French Revolution was killed. As a result, France got rid of the seven-day week originating from the Bible and changed the week to ten days. While the American Founding Fathers signed their official documents with “In the Year of the LORD,” the French got rid of calendar years based on the birth of Christ and called 1791 as “Year One” of the revolution.

The Salem Pastor noted polar opposite characteristics found in the American Revolution. “Conversely, the U.S. Constitution and Declaration of Independence were the first to include inalienable rights, or God-given rights that were considered fundamental to every human being that no government has the authority to take away. While the United States has been under the same Constitution since since 1789, France has had fourteen different constitutions.”

However, Ginter warns culturally speaking, America is a hair-breadth away from the French Model. He pointed to the Sisters of Perpetuality at Dodger Stadium where drag queens portrayed themselves as nuns. Generation Z’ers may have already chosen the French Model. According to a PEERS testing of children attending home school, less than three percent have a Biblical worldview. Research indicates an individual’s worldview is formulated between fifteen months and age thirteen.

Instead of the Body of Christ, this blasphemous scene from the Olympic opening ceremony has characters at a meal table with the body of the pagan god Dionysus as its course. (Photo courtesy of screenshot from Jonathan Cahn YouTube)

“I do not know how much time this country has left,” says Pastor Ginter. “We are at the epicenter, we are at a crisis point. In the Bible, there is no position of neutrality. There is no middle ground. He who gathers scatters. Everyone must do something. The sin of commission is treated the same as the sin of omission. We are in the position where we have to speak up. If you do what you can, GOD will multiply and amplify your efforts. The duty is ours, results is GOD’s.”

Ginter closes by saying America needs revival. He points to a story from America’s founding.

“In the days before electricity when people got around by horse-drawn carriages, the streets of Philadelphia were a dangerous place to be at night. Philadelphia had no paved roads and the roads were dark; one never knew if they were stepping in mud or horse excrement. Ben Franklin decided that the City of Philadelphia needed to light the streets up. Rather than go to the city fathers, Franklin decided to put a post in the ground in front of his house and hang a lantern on the post at night. Pretty soon individuals would gather at Franklin’s house because there was a lamp there. A neighbor thought it was a good idea, and decided to stick a post with a lantern in their front yard. After a while, the streets of Philadelphia were lit all because Franklin put a lamp in front of his house.

“Ladies and Gentlemen, we can see America lit again if you and I would just put a lamp out in front of our own house. If you and I can just do what we can do, we will stop the darkness that is seeking to envelope this nation and drive it away.”

Interestingly, the City of Paris experienced a blackout one day following the wicked opening ceremony. The only building with light was a downtown church, the Basillica of Sacre-Coeur de Montmartre. GOD will not be mocked.

The Bottom Line:

The Bible says in First Corinthians Nine, “Do you not know that those who run in a race all run, but only one receives the prize? Run in such a way that you may win.”

View Pastor Timothy Ginter’s August 4th sermon below at Church at the Center in Salem, Ohio. (45 min.)

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4 townships join Richland Co. jurisdictions banning weed: “Dispensaries provide false sense of security” (VIDEO)

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RICHLAND COUNTY — Out of the twenty-seven jurisdictions in Richland County, sixteen jurisdictions representing over sixty-six thousand residents now prohibit commercial cannabis. That number recently increased as four new townships passed resolutions formally banning the commercial sale. In July, the Board of Mifflin Township Trustees passed a resolution prohibiting commercial weed after a dispensary wanted to build near Exit 176. While a businesswoman discussed the supposed ‘tight security’ of cannabis dispensaries, not everyone was convinced.

During a July 2nd public hearing, eleven county citizens went on record opposing the proposed cannabis business in Mifflin while seven supported. One of those speaking out against commercial cannabis believes rhetoric by the cannabis industry is intentionally misleading.

On July 8th, the Mifflin Board of Trustees voted unanimously to prohibit commercial cannabis. (Photo courtesy of Frontlines Ohio)

“Comments by the Cannabis Industry calling their dispensaries “tighter than Fort Knox” is hyperbole,” Richland County resident Benjamin Mutti said in testimony to the Mifflin Trustees. “These clichés are not helpful for policymakers tasked with the responsibility of making consequential decisions of great magnitude.  This statement only stretches the truth as no single mind-altering marijuana dispensary is sitting on one-hundred thousand acres, supplied with its own emergency power plant, nor equipped with forty thousand troops guarding its vaults with doors weighing twenty-tons like Fort Knox,” Mutti said.

Even with cameras and other security measures in place at licensed facilities, marijuana is still escaping the premises and entering the Black Market. In California, there has been a spike in burglaries of weed dispensaries, specifically in the Bay Area.  A growing trend of dispensary break-ins classified as “Smash and Grabs” are occurring where stolen vehicles are being used to forcefully gain entry into the buildings and the businesses are then burglarized.  

Mutti believes the true strength of a chain is determined by its weakest link. He cited testimony by a Cannabis CEO Jared Maloof who publicly admitted licensed cannabis dispensaries supply the Black Market. Maloof also participated in a Cleveland tradeshow last Spring on a panel with another Cannabis CEO who had his state license revoked. In 2022 the Ohio Department of Commerce found that former Ancient Roots CEO, David Haley, gave free samples of marijuana products out to non-medical marijuana users and falsified data in his company’s inventory system. This past year, Maloof was blocked from bringing a marijuana dispensary to Bellville. 

“Comments by the Cannabis Industry calling their dispensaries “tighter than Fort Knox” is hyperbole and not helpful for policymakers tasked with the responsibility of making consequential decisions of great magnitude.  This statement only stretches the truth as no single mind-altering marijuana dispensary is sitting on one-hundred thousand acres, nor equipped with forty thousand troops guarding its vaults with doors weighing twenty-tons like Fort Knox.”

Benjamin Mutti

“It is my firm belief the marijuana industry is strongly associated with corruption,” says Mutti. “Where corruption prevails, justice will not coexist.  Just look at one of the most secure locations in the world: across the hall from the White House Situation Room, cocaine was found in 2023 and the U.S. Secret Service closed its investigations due to “lack of evidence.” This same corruption will likely happen in Mifflin Township if a mind-altering marijuana dispensary is allowed to open.  A secure chain is only as strong as its weakest link.” 

Several cases of white-collar pharmaceutical crime occurring inside marijuana facilities were provided to Mifflin Township Trustees. The Ohio Commerce Department has found employees inside these licensed dispensaries where transactions were falsified, and where licensed professionals were cultivating and trafficking marijuana on the side. In one case in 2021, a licensed Canton pharmacist admitted to becoming dependent on marijuana, to making THC-laced gummy bears, and to giving them to four coworkers.

During the Mifflin Township public hearing, the point was made that the proposed dispensary near Exit 176 would allow easy access and be out of harm’s way and away from housing developments. Two citizens who spoke against the proposal pointed out that “out of harm’s way” was actually beside their residences.

On July 2nd, the Board of Jackson Township Trustees voted to become the ninth township to prohibit commercial cannabis. (Photo courtesy of Frontlines Ohio)

Business owner and resident Leonard Dolce was also a vocal marijuana opponent. “I have children and grandchildren that live in this township and I want them to live in a safe neighborhood. Often times I see people walking up and down our road. Many times they appear to be on drugs and asking for money. A dispensary will only increase this problem,” he said. Previously, Mifflin Township passed a medical marijuana dispensary ban in 2018.

More townships are getting proactive. On June 10th, the Jefferson Township Board of Trustees passed a moratorium on the sale of commercial cannabis with no expiration date. On July 2nd the Jackson Township Trustees passed a resolution prohibiting commercial marijuana. And last week Sharon Township Board of Trustees passed their own prohibition resolution.

With theft inside licensed and secured dispensaries, Mutti comments, “These mind-altering marijuana dispensaries do not appear to be “as impregnable as Fort Knox. In some cases they appear to be more like a house of cards.”

The Bottom Line:

The Bible says in Proverbs Twenty-Five, “Like clouds and wind without rain, is a man who boasts of his gifts falsely.”

Video below discusses that there is little evidence of the medical benefits of marijuana. (6 min.)

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Commercial weed boycotts budding across Richland County: number of townships banning doubles to 8
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Upcoming ‘March for Jesus’ follows trend of churches hitting the streets (SLIDESHOW)

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Volunteers from The River Church participated in the May 2nd National Day of Prayer in downtown Mansfield (Photo courtesy of Frontlines Ohio)

RICHLAND COUNTY — The word on the street is local believers will be taking one small step at an upcoming march, and taking one giant leap for mankind. While church-goers held a march this past May in Mansfield, known as the “City of Churches,” Shelby residents are paving their own way as the “City of Hope” with a March for Jesus.

This coming Saturday, August 18th, the “2024 Jesus March Shelby” will begin at 10:00 AM and runs its course thru 4:00 PM. Marchers will begin assembling for the procession at 9 AM at Grand Boulevard with the march beginning at 10:00. Following the march, the event will move to the Shelby Black Fork Commons Amphitheater on Richland Avenue between 11AM to 4PM for worship music, special speakers and baptisms. Chairs and snacks recommended.

A march and prayer convocation for National Day of Prayer took place at Central Park Gazebo on May 2nd. The event was based on 2nd Samuel 22. (Photo courtesy of Frontlines Ohio)

A number of years ago In 1992, there was a “March for Jesus” event that took place in Mansfield involving thirty churches.

Recently believers have been letting their feet do the talking. This past May 2nd, the seventy-third annual observance of the National Day of Prayer took place. The last two years National Day of Prayer organizers have held a march down Park Avenue West, beginning from Marion Avenue and ending at the Central Park Gazebo. From there a prayer convocation ensues incorporating music and clergy-led prayer for different areas of society. It is believed that an annual observance in Mansfield has been taking place since 1995.

This past year’s parade event was based on 2 Samuel 22:29-31 in the Bible which says, “For You are my lamp, O LORD, and my GOD lightens my darkness. For by You I can run against a troop, and by my GOD I can leap over a wall. This GOD- His way is perfect; the word of the LORD proves true; He is a shield for all those who take refuge in Him.”

Lead Pastor Mark Cobb of Providence Baptist prays for safety forces and first responders (Photo courtesy of Frontlines Ohio)

The Mansfield Potter’s House worship team provided the music for the assembly at Central Park Gazebo. Scott Saunders of Shine FM Radio moderated, Pastor Mark Cobb prayed for safety forces and first responders, Pastor James Davis prayed for clergy and local ministries, Therapist Donna Akuchie prayed for schools, Pastor James Hill prayed for election integrity, and Pastor Paul Lintern sang a song he wrote, entitled “Mansfield is Godsfield.” The song came as an inspiration during the “March of Prayer” church meetings in the Spring.

Some of the participating groups that took part in the march included: Church Requel, Sar Shalom Center, First United Methodist, Holy Trinity Lutheran, First English Lutheran, Clay Memorial Lutheran, Oakland Lutheran, The River Church, Paradise Church, Abundant Life, Potter’s House, ARC Empowerment Center, Lifewise Academy, Child Evangelism Fellowship, Rubies Ministry, Project One, Salvation Army, Protect Life Ohio, and others.

The Bottom Line:

The Bible says in Psalms 133, “How good and pleasant it is when brethren dwell together in unity. It is like precious oil poured on the head, running down on Aaron’s beard, down on the collar of his robe.”

  • The second National Day of Prayer march took place in downtown Mansfield on May 2nd. The event was based on 2nd Samuel 22. (Photo courtesy of Frontlines Ohio)
  • Musicians from the Potter’s House worship team sing “Get up out of that grave…”(Photo courtesy of Frontlines Ohio)
  • Volunteers from Oakland Lutheran participated in the May 2nd National Day of Prayer in downtown Mansfield (Photo courtesy of Frontlines Ohio)
  • A convocation for National Day of Prayer took place at Central Park Gazebo on May 2nd. The event was based on 2nd Samuel 22. (Photo courtesy of Frontlines Ohio)
  • Volunteers from Paradise Church participated in the May 2nd National Day of Prayer in downtown Mansfield (Photo courtesy of Frontlines Ohio)
  • Local elected officials from Mansfield City Council and the Richland County Commissioner Board attend the National Day of Prayer (Photo submitted)
  • Pro-Israel display at a convocation for National Day of Prayer that took place at Central Park Gazebo on May 2nd. The event was based on 2nd Samuel 22. (Photo courtesy of Frontlines Ohio)
  • Local bagpipers play “Amazing Grace” prior to the prayer convocation. (Photo courtesy of Frontlines Ohio)
  • Volunteers from Protect Life Ohio participated in the May 2nd National Day of Prayer in downtown Mansfield (Photo courtesy of Frontlines Ohio)
  • A convocation for National Day of Prayer took place at Central Park Gazebo on May 2nd. The event was based on 2nd Samuel 22. (Photo courtesy of Frontlines Ohio)
  • Volunteers from Paradise Church participated in the May 2nd National Day of Prayer in downtown Mansfield (Photo courtesy of Frontlines Ohio)
  • Musicians from the Potter’s House worship team sing “Get up out of that grave…”(Photo courtesy of Frontlines Ohio)
  • A calliope played “Praise Him, praise Him, all Ye little children.” Photo courtesy of Frontlines Ohio)
  • Volunteers from Church Requel participated in the May 2nd National Day of Prayer in downtown Mansfield (Photo courtesy of Frontlines Ohio)
  • Volunteers from Sar Shalom Center participated in the May 2nd National Day of Prayer in downtown Mansfield (Photo courtesy of Frontlines Ohio)
  • The second National Day of Prayer march took place in downtown Mansfield on May 2nd. The event was based on 2nd Samuel 22.
  • Pastor Mark Cobb of Providence Baptist prays for safety forces and first responders (Photo courtesy of Frontlines Ohio)
  • A prayer convocation for National Day of Prayer took place at Central Park Gazebo on May 2nd. The event was based on 2nd Samuel 22. (Photo courtesy of Frontlines Ohio)
  • Volunteers from The River Church participated in the May 2nd National Day of Prayer in downtown Mansfield (Photo courtesy of Frontlines Ohio)

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Ohio Judge reinstates FACE Act: “Gender-affirming care carries undeniable risk and permanent outcomes

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COLUMBUS — It was poetic justice the ACLU lost a case at the hands of its own hand-picked court. The Ohio SAFE Act, or House Bill 68 was reinstated last week. This common sense law safeguards women’s sports and outlaws puberty blockers and mutilation surgeries for minors. While left-wing activists call these controversial procedures gender-affirming care, the fact of the matter is, the science has not been settled on these experimental measures, and one judge pointed that out.

“The State of Ohio has a legitimate government interest in protecting the health and safety of its citizens,” said Franklin County Common Court of Pleas Judge Michael J. Holbrook. The SAFE Act “Is rationally related to this interest and is limited to minors. Moreover, the medical care banned carries with it undeniable risk and permanent outcomes. Indeed, countries once confident in the administration of gender-affirming care to minors are now reversing their position as a result of the significant inconsistencies in results and potential side effect of the care,” Judge Michael J. Holbrook stated in his ruling.

Governor Mike DeWine’s veto of the SAFE Act, H.B. 68 was overruled the Ohio Legislature by the members of the House and Senate. (Photo courtesy of screenshot)

The Save Adolescents From Experimentation (SAFE) Act protects children who are experiencing gender dysphoria from harmful irreversible sex change procedures, including chemical castration through puberty blockers, harmful opposite sex hormones that set the endocrine system at odds with their DNA, and invasive surgical procedures. The law also includes the Save Women’s Sports Act, which provides safeguards for women’s-only athletic competitions from kindergarten through college.

The Ohio SAFE Act passed overwhelmingly in both chambers, and after Governor Mike DeWine’s veto, the SAFE Act was legislatively ratified again by a three-fifths majority vote from the members of the House and Senate over the Governor’s veto.

If laws currently on the books protect children from alcohol, drugs, legally-binding contracts, and tattoos are recognized, the case can be made that the law should also protect kids from puberty blockers and mutilation surgeries.

“Judge Michael Holbrook should be commended for following the facts of the law in his ruling today while we celebrate the excellent advocacy of Ohio’s Attorney General, Dave Yost. This has been a long hard fight to protect minors in the State of Ohio. Sex change procedures, including dangerous drug interventions and surgeries, are a failed experiment that has been harming children around the world.

State Rep. Reverend Gary Click

State Representative Gary Click (R-Vickery), the primary sponsor of H.B. 68, was pleased with Judge Michael Holbrook’s ruling.

“Judge Michael Holbrook should be commended for following the facts of the law in his ruling today while we celebrate the excellent advocacy of Ohio’s Attorney General, Dave Yost. This has been a long hard fight to protect minors in the State of Ohio. Sex change procedures, including dangerous drug interventions and surgeries, are a failed experiment that has been harming children around the world. Today, the Franklin County Court of Common Please upheld the right of the people of Ohio to ban such radical and risky procedures through their duly elected representatives.” 

Ohio Attorney General Dave Yost filed an emergency motion with the Ohio Supreme Court in an attempt to stop a temporary restraining order against the SAFE Act. The State Supreme Court denied his motion, not on the merits of the law, but instead on legal distinctions of jurisdiction.

Ohio Attorney General David Yost believes if laws currently on the books protect children are recognized, the case can be made that the law should also protect kids from puberty blockers and mutilation surgeries. (Photo courtesy of Ohio AG website)

Click commented on the disparity between the SAFE Act’s widespread support and the fringe ACLU. “Despite the best efforts of the ACLU to shop for a friendly court, we learned that the facts matter, the law matters, the science matters, and above all, the voice of the people matters most. A strong cross-section of Ohioans, from both sides of the political aisle, of all races, including members of the LGBTQ community recognize that decisions like these are too consequential to be made for and by minors who are incapable of providing informed consent and they asked their legislature to do something about it. We did,” Click said.

The first-term legislator went on to say, “This decision inaugurates a new era of safety and protection not only for minors facing mental health challenges but also for our young women who deserve the full extent of their Title IX protections. No longer do female athletes have to fear losing a spot on the starting lineup to a young man, worry about unnecessary injuries due to unfair competition, or surrendering their medals and scholarships to young men.  Once again, we anticipate protecting their privacy in their own locker rooms.”

State Representative Click, who also serves as lead pastor in Fremont, Ohio is in the battle for the long haul. He adds, “We understand that the ACLU is likely to appeal. However, we are confident that that if they cannot prevail in their handpicked court neither are they likely to succeed in Ohio’s highest court. Not only do we trust the science, but we also trust the justice system to uphold this duly enacted law.” 

The Bottom Line:

The Bible says in Lamentations 2, “Arise, cry out in the night, at the beginning of the night watches! Pour out your heart like water before the presence of the Lord! Lift your hands to him for the lives of your children, who faint for hunger at the head of every street.“

Related articles:

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Ohio Board of Education shoots down Biden’s distortion of Title IX & affirms parents’ rights (VIDEO)

Buckeye star & Hall of Fame inductee: “Christ gave me His life so I could be built to last” (VIDEO)

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CANTON — Last week, a former Buckeye star had a homecoming of sorts. Seventy-two year old Randy Gradishar, an Ohio State University standout who also played ten seasons with the Denver Broncos, was in Canton, Ohio to receive one of the highest honors in football. The All-Pro linebacker and member of the legendary “Orange Crush Defense,” was inducted into the National Football League Hall of Fame as part of the Class of 2024.

As expected during a Hall of Fame induction speech, fans heard several football stories, but they also heard about how GOD has a game plan for their life. Gradishar’s impressive career includes being named the 1978 Defensive Player of the Year, making seven trips to the Pro Bowl, being named a two-time First Team All-Pro, and being the Broncos’ all-time leading tackler.  But when Gradishar thanked his longtime friend and two-time Heisman Trophy winner, it was more for what happened off the field rather than on.

NFL Hall of Fame inductee Randy Gradishar thanks collegiate football team mate, Archie Griffin, for inviting him to a Fellowship of Christian Athletes meeting. (Photo courtesy of NFL Network screenshot)

Gradishar thanked Griffin as the real “game changer” for inviting him to a church meeting, calling it the “best invitation I have ever had.” He went on to call Griffin a difference maker in his life. “Archie years ago invited me to an on-campus Fellowship of Christian Athletes meeting Bible study during my senior year.”

Although the star linebacker shared that he regularly attended church, he had not heard the gospel of salvation. “That evening, in ’74, the gospel was explained in four simple truths. Truth one. God created mankind in his image, and that comes from Genesis 1:27. God loves us and offers a plan for our life.”

“Truth two: Mankind’s problems are from Romans 3:23. ‘That we’ve all sinned and fallen short of God’s glory.’ Therefore we cannot know and experience God’s love and plan for our lives. Romans 6:23. ‘For the wages of sin is death’ our spiritual death.”

“I always look forward to the Hall of Fame speeches because so often you hear wonderful and inspiring stories. I thank God for the part the Fellowship of Christian Athletes has had in leading many athletes to God through Christ.”

Reverend Joe Maggelet

Behind the speaker’s podium, Gradishar went on to say, “Truth Number 3. God made a way. John 3:16. ‘That God so loved the world that he gave his only son that whoever believes in him shall not perish, but have eternal life.’ Jesus Christ’s death on the cross, the darkest day in history, and Jesus’ resurrection earned Jesus the right to proclaim. ‘I am the way, the truth and the light,’ and ‘No one comes to the Father but through Me.'”

“And the fourth truth, salvation requires turning to God, repent of our sins, accept His forgiveness, and ask Jesus by faith to be your personal Lord and Savior.  This is the only way to be right with God and to live out His plans for our life, not ours,” Gradishar stated. “Christ gave me His life so I could be built to last.”

Randy Gradishar also shared about his career at Ohio State, how Coach Woody Hayes helped develop a lifestyle of serving. Coach Hayes would have his players visit nursing homes and middle schools during the spring quarter to encourage others to be their best. Gradishar also told the crowd about his favorite life verse which is Colossians 3:23.

Reverend Joe Maggelet is the Ashland University Sports Chaplain with the Fellowship of Christian Athletes. (Photo courtesy of Frontlines Ohio)

Reverend Joe Maggelet is the Ashland University Sports Chaplain with Fellowship of Christian Athletes (FCA). He was impressed by Gradishar’s induction speech. “I always look forward to the Hall of Fame speeches because so often you hear wonderful and inspiring stories.”

With over thirty-years as Sports Chaplain at Ashland University, Maggelet hopes similar stories can be replicated by his student athletes. “I thank God for the part FCA has had in leading many athletes to God through Jesus, His greatest gift to mankind! Randy Gradishar’s story illustrates how one man, Archie Griffin, can have such a profound influence.”

The Fellowship of Christian Athletes is located on many campuses across the nation and is an interdenominational, co-educational group of university athletes and interested students whose purpose is to present to athletes and coaches the challenge and adventure of receiving Jesus Christ as Savior and LORD.

The Bottom Line:

The Bible says in Colossians Three, “Whatever you do, work heartily, as for the LORD and not for men.”

View the NFL Network video of Randy Gradishar’s Hall of Fame induction speech. (17 min.)

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Faithful chaplain a guiding light to Ashland University sports teams (VIDEO)
Fellowship of Christian Athletes teams up with the Cleveland Cavaliers (VIDEO)
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Stakeholders’ warnings to Council fall on deaf ears: “Upstanding citizens were ignored”

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MANSFIELD — Surrounded by jurisdictions banning commercial marijuana, City Council just lit a match during June Eighteenth’s vote, tossing it at dozens of community-partners. On an evening of “Hear no evil and see no evil,” Mansfield City Council voted against a six month moratorium to prohibit commercial marijuana development. This, despite a chorus of stakeholders going on the record supporting a local ban.

The word “undermine” seemed to be the common theme on Tuesday evening. In a letter to City Council, CACY Executive Director Tracee Anderson wrote, “Allowing more accessibility of cannabis in our community will undermine the goal for a more educated Richland County workforce, and may lead to increased ‘brain drain’ or movement of skilled workforce to other areas,” she warned. Similarly, Lead Pastor David Parsons, representing a group of eighty-four diverse local faith leaders, told Council “Our community efforts will be undermined if commercial cannabis is permitted inside city limits.”

Pastor LaMont Lindsay told City Council June 18th, “As a pastor, I see many people dealing with addiction. When you make marijuana more available and easy to get, it will lead our city down a darker path.” (Photo courtesy of Frontlines Ohio)

But Council had already made up its mind. Councilman Aurelio Diaz (I, 5th Ward) responded by saying, “I feel marijuana is the least of our problems…my vote (opposing the moratorium) is not undermining anybody’s ministry.” Ironically, during the public hearing it was Diaz who shared how he had a family member two years ago die from drug use. “I do not have a problem with (recreational marijuana use), but she overdosed with three other friends on marijuana laced with fentanyl.” He went on to say, “In the past, our city has let us down by getting rid of recreational programs for the youth. This new Administration looks to change that.”

Last month The Cannabist Co. met with Mansfield city officials promising to bring twenty jobs and $250 thousand in annual tax revenue to the city. Recently the debt-strickened company announced it was leaving one of the nation’s biggest marijuana markets to focus on Ohio. The Cannabist Company Holdings Inc. lost $34 million in the first quarter of 2024 and $174.3 million last year. Some city leaders were not impressed by the company’s promises.

Alongside Council Members Antoinette Daley (D-4th Ward), and Deborah Mount (R-6th Ward), Councilman Reverend El Akuchie (R-3rd Ward) stood his ground in support for the overlooked moratorium. “In my thirty years of experience in drug and alcohol counseling, I did funerals for students using marijuana who died from drug abuse….There is nothing anybody can tell me that will change my mind. I am not willing to sell the soul of my children in this city to the highest bidder so that these dispensaries can make money. Telling us that we will make millions of dollars-excuse me? You cannot fool me.”

Despite the State Republican Party’s position opposing recreational marijuana last election, and a Republican majority on Council, several Republicans still voted to open the floodgates to commercial cannabis. In the vote, At-Large Councilman David Falquette (R) voted in favor of weed, betraying faith leaders who endorsed his candidacy in 2019. Falquette previously stated in a Frontlines Ohio survey that he opposed recreational marijuana use….that is until after he gets his endorsements. Falquette’s term is set to expire December 2027.

“In my thirty years of experience in drug and alcohol counseling, I did funerals for students using marijuana who died from drug abuse….There is nothing anybody can tell me that will change my mind. I am not willing to sell the soul of my children in this city to the highest bidder so that these dispensaries can make money. Telling us that we will make millions of dollars-excuse me? You cannot fool me.”

Councilman Reverend El Akuchie

One law enforcement veteran challenged councilmembers willing to appease the cannabis cartels. “Are you prepared to exchange lives for revenue?” Former Safety Service Director and DARE Officer Lori Cope asked Council, “During my career, I spoke to students in all twelve elementary schools in the city, discussing the dangers of drugs like marijuana. The undisputed fact is marijuana is a gateway drug regardless of its legal status. How can you tell your own children ‘marijuana is not permitted in your home’ when you have just allowed it in the community you live in?”

During the contentious council meeting, two different worldviews clashed. One medical professional cited marijuana as a contributing factor to schizophrenia. And the other, an embattled city official, who thinks marijuana actually treats schizophrenia.

Councilmember Stephanie Zader (R-At large) who last Fall was arrested for an OVI, admitted during council deliberations that she had the longest drug history out of anybody in the room. “I grew up in a drug house. With crack cocaine as the drug of her choice, my mother remains a drug addict. I have been assaulted many times by my mom but I never was attacked by her when she was high on marijuana,” Zader alleged. “Marijuana helps my mom with her schizophrenia.” (See Editor’s Note) The terms for Stephanie Zader and fellow Councilmember Laura Burns, (1st Ward) who also voted in favor of the mind-altering drug, both expire December 2025.

On June 18th, Mansfield City Council voted 5-3 to reject a 6 month moratorium prohibiting commercial cannabis. Council members supporting cannabis included Republicans: Laura Burns, Stephanie Zader, & David Falquette. (Photo courtesy of Frontlines Ohio)

Citizens testifying in favor of the commercial moratorium outnumbered opponents by a 2 to 1 margin. Of the sixteen who supported, Dr. Joseph Bocka, MD cited a recent Danish study. “The study concluded between twenty-five to thirty percent of schizophrenia in males could be prevented if marijuana was not allowed under age seventeen,” he said. Nurse Amanda Nichols, RN, added that when weed dispensaries come in, emergency rooms are burdened with skyrocketing overdoses. “In one community, I saw overdoses went from two hundred cases to nearly three thousand in one year,” she said. “Many of these overdoses involve children at very young ages consuming THC edibles resembling candies when negligent adults leave them laying around.”

Speaking of mishaps, Mansfield resident, Jack Ink, shared how as a General Motors employee, he was the victim of an accident involving a co-worker high on marijuana. “I was almost killed by a marijuana user,” Ink said. “As an electrician, I was in the air on a diesel man-lift and the lady involved was refueling the diesel-man lift with gasoline. She could not see straight because they found out she was high on marijuana. When the engine exploded, I was throwed against pipes and almost crushed to death,” he recalled.

The youngest council member also went on record opposing commercial marijuana. “I support the moratorium,” said Deborah Mount. “As a first-responder and EMT, I have been on numerous calls involving marijuana, specifically THC gummies. The costs of these accidents is very expensive. In one case I saw two cars totaled and four people life-flighted to Grant Hospital. With the reality of increased traffic accidents, the imagined revenue does not persuade me. I have seen too much.”

After the short-sighted vote, one pastor has also seen too much. “It is unethical to allow the endangerment of children,” said Lead Pastor LaMont Lindsay. “Each Council member will be accountable to both GOD and their city. This is not true leadership when Council’s rationale for allowing marijuana is that ‘everybody else is doing it.'” The faith leader went on to say, “Upstanding citizens were ignored. At some point their needs to be adults in the room making the important decisions. Apparently City Council is prioritizing money over the sanctity of the family; and now we have a divided city.”

Editor ‘s Note: Scitzophhrenia is presently NOT a qualifying condition for prescription under Ohio Marijuana Law.

Bottom Line:

The Bible says in Proverbs Twenty-nine, “When the righteous are in authority, the people rejoice, but when the wicked rule, the people mourn.”

84 Clergy to Mansfield City Council: “If you allow marijuana, you undermine our ministry”
Senator & School Board on proposed commercial weed in Mansfield: “Grass not greener on the other side” (VIDEO)
Faith leaders bring report to Madison Township Trustees: “Cannabis does not make dollars and sense” (VIDEO)

84 Clergy to Mansfield City Council: “If you allow marijuana, you undermine our ministry”

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MANSFIELD — The burning question on Tuesday night’s vote is, will City Council be bowing down to the ‘Almighty Dollar’? Or will the elected officials be safeguarding children and shielding the addicted? That is the question a group of local clergy is addressing. On Sunday evening, a grassroots coalition of clergy delivered a joint statement to members of the Mansfield City Council.

“We encourage Mansfield City Council to vote “YES” to a six-month moratorium on commercial cannabis, a drug associated with addiction, crime, and impairment,” eighty-four clergy wrote in an email correspondence to Council. “Furthermore, it is our desire in the future City Council extends this moratorium indefinitely to prohibit this illicit drug.”  

In 2022, 110 lead clergy across nine counties encouraged area mayors & chambers of commerce not to decriminalize drugs. 74 of the faith leaders were based in Richland County. (Photo courtesy of Frontlines Ohio)

Having started a congregation that ministers to people in downtown Mansfield, Pastor Joe Nichols, one of the cosigners of the letter, has a vested interest in Council’s decision. He asserts, “As local stakeholders, the faith community has engaged drug addiction during the Opioid Crisis and even before, implementing drug treatment ministries, and promoting drug awareness thru marches and rallies,” Nichols said. “We believe these community efforts will be undermined if commercial cannabis is permitted in city limits.  Furthermore, the momentum we achieved will be lessened.”

In the letter the clergy wrote, “The Book of Ecclesiastes says, “There is nothing better for a man, than that he should eat and drink, and that he should make his soul enjoy good in his labor.” (2:24 KJV) There is no question cannabis adversely impacts work.  Since users of cannabis pursue a ‘euphoric high,’ work is impaired, and productivity is reduced,” the clergy warned.  “With skyrocketing THC levels in today’s cannabis, more accessibility to cannabis will bring inebriated employees, more job accidents, and more absenteeism.”

The faith leaders believe that whether the federal government reclassifies marijuana as a Schedule 1 substance or not, their opinion on the danger it brings does not change. Another clergy cosigner, Pastor Dan Zediker points out, “The Bible says ‘All things might be lawful, but they are not always beneficial.’ Part of the deception is that addiction to drugs should be culturally acceptable. We have to be sober-minded and vigilant,” he says.

“As local stakeholders, the faith community has engaged drug addiction during the Opioid Crisis and even before, implementing drug treatment ministries, and promoting drug awareness thru marches and rallies. We believe these community efforts will be undermined if commercial cannabis is permitted in city limits.”

Pastor Joe Nichols

“It should be noted, following Mansfield City Council’s formal opposition to recreational cannabis in 2015, and following City Council’s prohibition of “medical” cannabis in 2017, Mansfield/Richland County in 2020 became the seventh top metropolitan area in the nation (areas under 200,000 population) for significant economic projects per capita,” Pastor Zediker cited. “Our community became a hot spot for job growth without cannabis…..it can be done.” 

Other clergy in the collaboration, Pastor James Davis and his wife Joi, lead a congregation in Mansfield and consider the city as their ministry field. Davis has twenty-five years in the social work field and has seen first hand the negative impact marijuana has had on children and their families.

“We wholeheartedly agree with the METRICH Executive Director who stated this past winter that ‘Mansfield is a community of children and families, and that a legislative body should not place revenue from the cannabis industry over the security and sanctity of the family.’  Without a doubt, more accessibility to cannabis will bring more exposure to children, damaging their brain development, jeopardizing their mental health, and lowering their academic performance,” Pastor Davis observed. “Our children deserve better than this.”

In the Fall of 2023, 142 lead clergy from twenty counties encouraged Ohioans to vote against legalizing recreational marijuana. 82 of the faith leaders were from Richland County. (Photo courtesy of Frontlines Ohio)

Earlier this year at a Madison Board of Township Trustees meeting, several pastors referenced an economic analysis on tax revenue Colorado marijuana brought to the state. For every tax dollar generated by marijuana sales, the study found $4.50 of mitigating social costs that were incurred. The pastors at the Trustee meeting said they believe a local commercial marijuana industry will feed the Black Market.

In the letter to Mansfield City Council, the clergy commented, “Allowing the Cannabis Industry to profit off collateral damage to our community is not acceptable. Commercial cannabis will only add to the trauma in our neighborhoods.  It is no small matter that the blessing of the LORD, it maketh rich, and He addeth no sorrow with it.  Furthermore, as lead clergymen from eighty-four area congregations, we ask Mansfield City Council to please vote “YES” to prohibit commercial cannabis in Mansfield, our community is counting on you.”

A number of elected officials in the area have already answered that call. Nine townships in Richland County currently prohibit commercial marijuana businesses, eight of those prohibit indefinitely. Area municipalities Ashland, Lexington, and Shelby also prohibit indefinitely. This Spring the City of Ontario passed a six-month moratorium, and the Village of Bellville just renewed their moratorium last week for another six months. Faith leaders are hoping there is more to come.

The Bottom Line:

The Bible says in James Chapter Four, “If anyone, then, knows the good they ought to do and does not do it, it is sin for them.”

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142 Clergymen encourage Ohioans to VOTE NO for Marijuana Issue 2: ‘Don’t let Buckeye State get lost in weeds’ (VIDEO) (SLIDESHOW)
Economic leader says local clergy prevented cannabis company from coming to Ontario

Senator & School Board on proposed commercial weed in Mansfield: “Grass not greener on the other side” (VIDEO)

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MANSFIELD –Mansfield City Council will be voting Tuesday June 18th on whether to allow a marijuana dispensary to set up shop. At the last meeting, one Mansfield faith leader voiced his concerns with the prospects of The Cannabist Co. coming to town. For several decades the bi-vocational Pastor has seen families harmed by marijuana in his years as a minister and as an educator in public schools.

“In light of the business proposal and estimated revenue, City Council should not base its decision on money alone. What price do you put on our children?” asks Pastor David Parsons. “How do you quantify the ruined lives of people who get addicted to marijuana? I find it interesting that both the municipalities of Logan and Monroe have dispensaries owned by The Cannabist Co., and yet both voted to ban commercial weed after the dispensaries came to town. Maybe there are unintended consequences associated with this gateway drug this company is not talking about? Maybe the grass is not so green on the other side.”

Mansfield City Council will be voting Tuesday night, June 18th on whether to pass a six-month moratorium on commercial cannabis. Presently medical cannabis inside the city is prohibited. (Photo courtesy of Frontlines Ohio)

Last week the Mansfield Christian School Board approved a non-binding resolution supporting prohibition of commercial marijuana. Mansfield Christian officially joins Clear Fork Valley Schools in supporting the prohibition to minimize student access to the drug and to “preserve and protect the community’s high quality of life, and the health and safety of school employees and students.” The resolution, signed by Superintendent Dr. Cy Smith and Board President Jason Guilliams, states “The increased availability of marijuana from legalization correlates with an alarming increase in emergency room visits for children due to marijuana ingestion, particularly by the youngest children.”

Not only are children impacted thru exposure to marijuana and THC products, the judgement of some parents appears to be impaired. Last year one dispensary customer at the Backroad Wellness in Lima, Ohio threatened to burn the dispensary down “if the business did not watch his children.” This past winter two Marietta parents were indicted on felony charges of involuntary manslaughter and reckless homicide after their infant daughter was found deceased and malnourished in their apartment. The daughter and sibling, were both born with high levels of THC in their systems. One of The Cannabist Co.’s marijuana dispensaries is located in Marietta.

While it is more convenient for marijuana dispensaries not to report theft, there are police reports of theft occurring inside marijuana dispensaries. A security guard at the Dayton Strawberry Fields Dispensary, owned by The Cannabist Co., was arrested for stealing prescribed marijuana. The nearby Pure Ohio Wellness Dispensary has also seen several employees steal marijuana products. But breaking the rules may not be so bad after all.

“What price do you put on our children? How do you quantify the ruined lives of people who get addicted to marijuana? I find it interesting that the municipalities of Logan and Monroe both have dispensaries owned by The Cannabist Co., and yet both voted to ban commercial weed after the dispensaries came to town. Maybe there are unintended consequences associated with this gateway drug. Maybe the grass is not so greener on the other side.”

Pastor Dave Parsons

According to the updated Chapter 3780 of the Ohio Revised Code, 36% of taxpayer dollars goes to a cannabis Social Equity Program providing financial assistance and license application support to individuals guilty of breaking marijuana-related laws who are interested in starting or working in cannabis business entities.

One of the leading voices opposing legalizing recreational marijuana last fall was State Senator Mark Romanchuk (R-Ontario). He believes many Ohioans are not aware that the new law passed is not just about marijuana, it is also about dismantling the current system of law and justice to tilt in favor of the Cannabis Industry.

“Part of the taxpayer dollars supposedly ‘going back to the public’ includes giving tax breaks to convicted felons to help them start their own marijuana dispensary. And even more ludicrous, these taxpayer dollars are also being used for political action by the Cannabis Industry in local policing reform and in judicial reform that includes bail, parole, and sentencing. In other words, state taxes are paying for political lobbyists employed by ‘Big Cannabis’ to tilt the scales.”

Recently the founder of one marijuana company conducted a presentation in a Richland County jurisdiction proposing new jobs and tens of thousands of dollars of tax revenue. As a convicted felon who violated probation for domestic violence and abduction, their marijuana company was awarded licenses for several dispensaries. Products from these dispensaries include high THC potency products inaptly named, “High-Divorce Rate Resin” that has 68% THC, and “Problem- Child Solventless Ice Hash” which has 63% THC. Previously this co-owner was incarcerated for cocaine possession.

Ohio law now aids convicted felons in becoming dispensary owners and also helps finance political lobbyists in the Cannabis Industry.

The crimes committed by dispensary owners are the very products they sell and the social impacts they bring. In addition to child abandonment and theft, violent crime and impaired driving seems to follow a national trend going hand in hand with Ohio dispensaries.

Local police reports include violent crime incidents at Dayton Strawberry Fields (owned by The Cannabist Co.) that involved a dispensary assault where a man attacked a woman resulting in a punctured lung. At the Dayton Ohio Wellness Dispensary, another incident involving aggravated menacing and criminal damaging when a large group targeted a woman by throwing a large rock thru her car window.

Clearly marijuana legalization brings more impaired drivers on the roadways. However, customers at Pure Ohio Wellness Dispensary in Dayton are technically not making it to the roadways. Instead, they are smashing into vehicles in the dispensary’s parking lot. At least one operating a vehicle while intoxicated (OVI) is known to have occurred in addition to a stolen car being found at the Dayton marijuana dispensary.

“If the Cannabis Industry is leading Ohioans off a cliff, I am not going to follow,” says Pastor Parsons. “We cannot let marijuana dispensaries harm our families and children. Christ left the ninety-nine to rescue the one lost sheep. I hope that City Council recognizes that even one life is precious in GOD’s eyes.”

The Bottom Line:

The Bible says in Matthew Twenty-Four, “Those who follow the distorted vision offered by false prophets will abandon truth. They will rebel against virtue or submitting to GOD. The ultimate result of that self-serving, self-following lawlessness will be the loss of love.”

View video newscast from Cincinnati-based WLWT reporting Poison Control calls in Cincinnati and Columbus are seeing a dramatic increase in calls pertaining to marijuana poisonings. (2 min.)

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Richland & Ashland County officials warn of dangers from cannabis: “Users may develop paranoia” (VIDEO)
In cannabis debate, Clear Fork School Board and citizens say: ‘Not in our backyard’ (SLIDESHOW)
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Richland & Ashland County officials warn of dangers from cannabis: “Users may develop paranoia” (VIDEO)

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NORTH CENTRAL OHIO — While April 20th has become known as a holiday celebrating the consumption of cannabis, the day is also associated with tragedy. This year marks the twenty-fifth anniversary of the Columbine school massacre involving the shooting of twelve Colorado students and a teacher. Both student shooters also took their own lives that day, and one admitted to smoking marijuana. With so many stories of marijuana users at their wit’s end, April has formally been designated as a month to bring awareness about mental health problems associated with this dangerous drug.

“Marijuana use beginning in the teen years or younger may affect brain development,” says Commissioner Jim Justice. “This may impair thinking, memory, and learning. Additionally, teenagers who use marijuana may be less likely to graduate from high school or college,” the Ashland County Commissioner said in a proclamation commemorating National Cannabis Awareness Month.

Recognizing Cannabis Awareness Month, Ashland County Commissioner Jim Justice stated marijuana can be associated with paranoia and mental disorders like schizophrenia. (Photo courtesy of Frontlines Ohio)

The Ashland County leader was not the only area commissioner sounding off on the issue. The Richland County Board of Commissioners unanimously declared the Month of April as National Cannabis Awareness Month as ‘a measure to preserve and protect Richland County’s upstanding quality of life, and the strength and prosperity of our communities.’

According to Richland Commissioner Darrell Banks, “In 2023 alone, the Richland County Children Services Agency conducted 269 drug tests of minors with 41 teenagers testing positive for marijuana along with children as young as two years old testing positive,” he said. “The Executive Director has said parental drug use is the number one reason children are temporarily removed from their parents.”

All four county commissioners pointed out that “People who use marijuana may develop temporary psychosis involving hallucinations and paranoia and also long-lasting mental disorders like schizophrenia.” These mental disorders are resulting in a pattern of psychotic behavior that is unmistakable.

“I hate drugs, and I believe this country would do better if everyone would stop smoking marijuana and doing all these drugs and causing racism and violence out in the streets.”

Nikolas Cruz, convicted Florida school shooter of 17

According to an analysis of targeted school violence by the U.S. Secret Service on K-12 schools between 2008-2017, half of the thirty-five attackers had a history of substance use and/or abuse, and the most frequently-used substance was marijuana.

This past January a California woman was sentenced to probation for fatally stabbing her boyfriend over one hundred times after taking a hit of potent marijuana from a bong.

As a dramatic increase in potency and use of marijuana has occurred, violent acts involving marijuana are becoming more and more common: In 2018, a mass shooting in California involved Ian David Long murdering twelve at a restaurant. In 2019, a mass shooting in Dayton, Ohio, involved Connor Betts murdering nine and injured seventeen at several nearby bars. In 2018, a mass shooting at a Florida high school involving Nikolas Cruz murdering seventeen and injuring seventeen. In 2017, a mass shooting in Texas involving Devin Kelley murdering twenty-six at a church. All the attackers had a history of use and/or abuse of marijuana.

During his sentencing, convicted killer Nikolas Cruz commented about cannabis, saying, “I hate drugs, and I believe this country would do better if everyone would stop smoking marijuana and doing all these drugs and causing racism and violence out in the streets.”

With concern over cannabis’ impact on young people, the Board of Richland County Commissioners declared April as “National Cannabis Awareness Month.” (Photo courtesy of Frontlines Ohio)

While not everyone who uses marijuana becomes a mass murderer, erratic behavior has been observed to be associated with cannabis. Excessive use of high-THC pot and concentrated oil is linked to psychotic episodes that in some cases develop into full blown schizophrenia. A study by USA Today from interviews of medical professionals and a dozen parents whose children suffered mental breakdowns found a link between vapes and cannabis-induced psychosis. The study also cited a 77% increase in suicides among ten to nineteen year-old Colorado youth with marijuana in their systems. But that is not all.

According to a 2022 systemic review of available studies, the use of high-potency cannabis is associated with an increased risk of psychosis and severe addiction known as Cannabis Use Disorder. In their proclamation, the Richland County Board of Commissioners referred to the U.S. Centers for Disease Control’s definition of ‘Cannabis Use Disorder’ as “the inability to stop using marijuana and signs of the disorder include trying but failing to quit using marijuana, or giving up important activities, friends, and/or family in favor of using marijuana.”

Commissioner Banks stoically warned, “We encourage citizens to be mindful of the dangers associated with cannabis.”

The Bottom Line:

The Bible says in Philippians Chapter 4, “Be anxious for nothing, but in everything by prayer and supplication, with thanksgiving, let your requests be made known to GOD; and the peace of GOD, which surpasses all understanding, will guard your hearts and minds through Christ Jesus.”

View video of presentation by Benjamin Mutti to Richland County Board of Commissioners on problem of cannabis. (15 min.)

Related articles:

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Pastor Pawlowski comes to Buckeye Bible Belt for National Day of Prayer: “Ohio is special to my heart..”(SLIDESHOW)(VIDEO)

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Canadian Pastor Artur Pawlowski shares about the Canadian government's violation of his civil rights: "Through it all, I am still standing!" (Photo courtesy of Jimmi Delay)

ASHLAND –Despite attempts by the mockingbird media to derail the Ashland Prayer Breakfast, people lined up early at 6:30 AM on the National Day of Prayer to get into a sold-out Convocation Center. Following breakfast, believers gathered for corporate prayer and a passionate keynote address about preserving religious freedom. With clergy and elected officials praying in tandem for revival, the breakfast event was sure to leave a bad taste in ‘Big Brother’s’ mouth.

“Our speaker was electrifying,” Pastor John Bouquet, coordinator of the Prayer Breakfast said. “Pastor Artur Pawlowski and his wife, Marzena, came to us from Calgary, Canada. Pastor Artur shared his story of speaking up and speaking out during the COVID lock downs of the Canadian government. He faced opposition from a Government bound and determined to silence his voice because of his calling to preach the Gospel and teach people the Word of God.”

Mayor Matt Miller greets keynote speaker Pastor Artur Pawlowski for the 2024 Ashland Prayer Breakfast. (Photo courtesy of Jimmi Delay)

A special connection exists between Ohioans and the high-profile Canadian pastor. During the pandemic, the Ohio Legislature advocated against draconian Canadian policies and on top of that, faith leaders in North Central Ohio resisted oppressive federal health mandates.

“I want to thank you so much for supporting our fight in Canada,” Pastor Pawlowski told the prayer breakfast attendees. “Ohio is very special to my heart because it was this state government here that stood for us when our own government in Canada tried to destroy us. Thank you so much for passing the bill (H.R.194) and plowing the field of freedom.”

“My passion is not actually ‘freedom of expression’ or ‘freedom of religion’. My passion is Jesus Christ because he was the biggest freedom fighter that ever lived on this side of eternity. Christ said that whoever comes to him is free indeed, and where the Spirit of the Lord is, there is liberty.”

“This brutal Canadian regime was trying to make an example of me; but I was actually making an example of them.”

Canadian Pastor Artur Pawlowski

Following a song by the Salvation Army Youth Choir, Pawlowski shared about his troubles with the oppressive COVID laws and challenging the status quo. “After travelling four months, (during the Pandemic) warning Americans about Canadian tyranny, I returned to Canada and was immediately arrested after stepping out of the plane. I have never seen anyone arrested on the tarmac-it happened to me. What a great takedown of the El Chapo of Canada, the Al Capone of Alberta! What were my charges? Inciting people to come to church.”

Pastor Bouquet believes when a man like Artur Pawlowski has a ‘Calling from on High’ to preach Biblical truth and proclaim liberty in Christ, no totalitarian government will ever be able to silence the message. While courage can be contagious, it does come with a cost; and that cost has been malicious prosecution.

According to Pawlowski, “I have been arrested sixteen times by Canadian officials. I was literally kidnapped by sheriffs and taken to Edmonton to a maximum-security prison where it was twenty-eight degrees below zero. In all, I have been cited three hundred-fifty times, and have been in one hundred-twenty court cases. My first citation was for feeding the poor. I was also cited for disseminating printed materials, so my Bibles and gospel tracts were confiscated. This brutal Canadian regime was trying to make an example of me; but I was actually making an example of them.”

Pawlowski was the symbol of resistance to get the trucker convoy started. “I was asked to be their chaplain and gave sermons to the truckers,” he says. “I was physically attacked. I have received five different reports of guards giving inmates incentives to kill me while in prison. They tried to burn down my house at night, for months they vandalized my church. The Canadian legal system stripped me of my clothes and put me on display in front of men and women. I was even placed in solitary confinement for twenty-five hours where the most dangerous terrorists are kept. But here I am, I am still standing!”

A sellout crowd of nearly seven-hundred filled the Convocation Center in Ashland University for the 2024 Ashland Prayer Breakfast. (Photo courtesy of Jimmi Delay)

In the many attempts to silence Artur Pawlowski, he was offered money, positions of influence, and political clout. “For eight months the Canadian government tried to blackmail me,” the Canadian Pastor revealed. “They offered me $2 million to shut my mouth. They offered me a guaranteed seat at the legislature if I would just shut up. I was told if I do not want to be a politician I could have a government job making $250,000. They finally realized I would not compromise. You see, Art Palowski is not for sale because I have already been bought by the precious blood of Jesus. I am not for sale!” he exclaimed to a loud applause.

“I have filed the biggest lawsuit in the history of Canada, I am suing the Attorney General of Canada, I am going after the Calvary Chief of Police and RCP officers. A few months ago we served papers to the Director of Prison that kept me in metal cages, and naked in solitary confinement, and he resigned a few days after. So far we taken down the Minister of Justice, the Minister of Health, the Premier, and the Director of Prison and this is just the beginning. I have absolutely no intention of stopping until Justice is served.”

Quitters never win, and winners never quit. Courage can be infectious, and Pastor Bouquet hopes that Artur Pawlowski becomes a super-spreader in Ohio.

The Bottom Line:

The Bible says in John Ten, “I am the good shepherd. The good shepherd lays down his life for the sheep. The hired hand is not the shepherd and does not own the sheep. So when he sees the wolf coming, he abandons the sheep and runs away. Then the wolf attacks the flock and scatters it.“

View slideshow below of the 2024 Ashland Prayer Breakfast produced by Jimmi Delay Photography.

  • Mayor Matt Miller shares opening comments about his admiration for Pastor Charles Stanley. (Photo courtesy of Jimmi Delay)
  • The Salvation Army Youth Choir sings “I Speak Jesus.” (Photo courtesy of Jimmi Delay)
  • Pastor Todd Grover prays for spiritual revival in society. (Photo courtesy of Jimmi Delay)
  • The Myers Convocation Center of Ashland University is the annual site of the National Day of Prayer observance. (Photo courtesy of Frontlines Ohio)
  • A sellout crowd of nearly seven hundred attend the 2024 Ashland Prayer Breakfast. (Photo courtesy of Jimmi Delay)
  • State Rep. Melanie Miller greets Canadian Pastor, Artur Pawlowski. (Photo courtesy of Jimmi Delay)
  • The Salvation Army Youth Choir sings “I Speak Jesus.” (Photo courtesy of Jimmi Delay)
  • Canadian Pastor Artur Pawlowski thanks Ohioans who stood with Canadians during the pandemic lockdowns. (Photo courtesy of Jimmi Delay)
  • Pastor Jared Smeltzer prays for Police & First Responders. (Photo courtesy of Jimmi Delay)
  • Law enforcement and First Responders attend 2024 Ashland Prayer Breakfast. (Photo courtesy of Frontlines Ohio)
  • A sellout crowd of nearly seven hundred attend the 2024 Ashland Prayer Breakfast. (Photo courtesy of Jimmi Delay)
  • Canadian Pastor Artur Pawlowski shares about the Canadian tyranny trying to censor his Biblical message of freedom. (Photo courtesy of Jimmi Delay)
  • State Senator Mark Romanchuk attends the 2024 Ashland Prayer Breakfast. (Photo courtesy of Jimmi Delay)
  • Pastor Bill Payne prays for the families of the U.S. Armed Forces. (Photo courtesy of Jimmi Delay)
  • Ashland Mayor Matt Miller speaks before a packed audience at the Prayer Breakfast. (Photo courtesy of Frontlines Ohio)
  • Sherry Bouquet gives closing prayer. (Photo courtesy of Jimmi Delay)
  • County Commissioner Jim Justice attends the 2024 Ashland Prayer Breakfast. (Photo courtesy of Jimmi Delay)
  • Pastor John Bouquet helped coordinate the 2024 Ashland Prayer Breakfast.(Photo courtesy of Jimmi Delay)
  • A sellout crowd of nearly seven hundred attend the 2024 Ashland Prayer Breakfast. (Photo courtesy of Jimmi Delay)
  • Pastor Harry Strachan prays for local elected officials. (Photo courtesy of Jimmi Delay)
  • State Rep. Melanie Miller prays for federal government. (Photo courtesy of Jimmi Delay)
  • A sellout crowd of nearly seven hundred attend the 2024 Ashland Prayer Breakfast. (Photo courtesy of Jimmi Delay)
  • Ashland Mayor greets Canadian Pastor Artur Pawlowski. (Photo courtesy of Jimmi Delay)
  • Canadian Pastor Artur Pawlowski shares about the Canadian government’s violation of his civil rights: “Through it all, I am still standing!” (Photo courtesy of Jimmi Delay)

View video produced by Ashland County Pictures of the 2024 address by Keynote Speaker Pastor Artur Pawlowski. (43 min.)

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Canadian clergy tell Trudeau ‘GOD sets up kings and pulls the mighty down from their thrones’
101 Ohio clergy tell Joe Biden: “There is no king but King Jesus”

Commercial weed boycotts budding across Richland County: number of townships banning doubles to 8 (VIDEO)

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RICHLAND COUNTY — Despite the federal government’s reclassifying of marijuana, there is no denying the adverse effects of cannabis can be seen locally. As a result, elected officials across Richland County are ‘going against the grain,’ and prohibiting the commercial use of cannabis. The number of townships with cannabis bans have now doubled to eight. One lead pastor who oversees a local addiction ministry, believes the leadership of these township trustees is helping fill the vacuum created in Washington D.C.

“Prohibiting commercial cannabis in a jurisdiction is the only tool communities legally have to help prevent the downward spiral of marijuana addiction,” says Pastor William Cole. “Whether it is the the border issue, the bathroom issue, or the cannabis issue, this (Biden) Administration appears hellbent in destroying our country. The vision and courage we are seeing by our local trustee boards with these prohibition resolutions is a breath of fresh air.”

The Plymouth Township Board of Trustees passed a resolution for adult-use commercial cannabis operators by a unanimous vote on April 4th. 54% of the voters in the Township opposed legalizing cannabis last Fall’s election. (Photo courtesy of Frontlines Ohio)

This past month Plymouth Township joined seven other townships in the county to approve a resolution to prohibit adult-use cannabis operators and medical marijuana cultivators, processors, and retail dispensaries with the township. According to Chapter 3780.25 of the Ohio Revised Code, townships are authorized to prohibit, or limit the number of adult use cannabis operators within the unincorporated area of their townships.

According to the resolution, “the Board of Township Trustees finds it to be in the best interest of the township to prohibit adult use cannabis operators.” Plymouth now joins several recent townships of Weller, Springfield, and Franklin, along with Monroe, Washington, Madison and Bloomingrove.

“The vision and courage we are seeing by these trustee boards with these prohibition resolutions is a breath of fresh air.”

Pastor William Cole

With the First Family dealing with substance abuse first-hand, it is no surprise the Biden Administration will be reclassifying marijuana as a Schedule 3 controlled substance. Last year cocaine was found in the West Wing near the Situation Room. With the Secret Service unable to come up with any evidence in one of the most secured and monitored buildings in the world, critics believe the so-called investigation dovetailed the Administration’s policies favoring the drug culture.

Prior to the Biden Administration, Barak Obama’s Drug Czar cited a 2013 study finding that marijuana is the drug most often linked to crime in the United States. Gil Kerlikowske, the former White House Director of National Drug-Control policy, reported findings showing eighty-percent of adult males arrested in 2012 for crimes in Sacramento, California tested positive for at least one illegal drug. Marijuana was the most common drug, found in 54% of those arrested. The same study found similar results in New York City, Denver, Atlanta, and Chicago. The study included over 1,700 drug tests and 1,900 interviews.

“Re-imagining marijuana” by the Drug Enforcement Agency, will include dropping the drug to a Schedule 3 drug, which is defined as a class of drugs with moderate to low potential for physical and psychological dependence. Presently the CDC, estimates three in ten people who use marijuana have marijuana use disorder.

The Franklin Township Board of Trustees passed a resolution for adult-use commercial cannabis operators by a unanimous vote on April 1st. 60% of the voters in the Township opposed legalizing cannabis last Fall’s election.(Photo courtesy of Frontlines Ohio)

Ironically, when marijuana was first listed as a Schedule 1 narcotic in 1970 with high potential for abuse, THC levels averaged only 1-3%. THC is the psychoactive component that causes addiction. The more potent the drug is, the stronger the possibility of addiction. Today marijuana has become much more potent, with average THC levels in marijuana plant material skyrocketing to between 18-23%. In 2017, THC concentrates had an average THC potency of 55.7%.

Pastor Cole believes the marijuana reclassification is predicated more on money instead of public health and safety. “The federal government is ‘deep in the weeds’ on this issue. The well being of people are more important than the wealth of a few. The Bible says righteousness exalts a nation, not money. Truth be told, people who will do anything for money cannot be trusted.

“Marijuana is showing up in gummy bears, cookies, candies, and lollipops. This normalization of weed must stop,” the Mansfield Pastor warns. “We cannot beat around the bush, we have to let our local leaders know that they cannot take their marching orders from Washington D.C.”

View “CBS This Morning” video discussing the link between high-THC pot and cannabis-induced psychosis. (4 min.)

The Bottom Line:

The Bible says in Proverbs 11, “Whoever trusts in his riches will fall, but the righteous will flourish like a green leaf.”

Related articles:

4 local townships prohibit commercial weed: “With outlaw industry, our community will go downhill” (VIDEO)
Faith leaders bring report to Madison Township Trustees: “Cannabis does not make dollars and sense” (VIDEO)
66 Clergy on proposed Bellville marijuana dispensary: ‘It will steal, kill & destroy’
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