On Tuesday, a crisp September morning, I ventured to Columbus, Ohio, to experience the grandeur of the Ohio Statehouse and to sit down with State Representative Melanie Miller, who represents the 67th House District encompassing Ashland County and the western part of Medina County. The Ohio Statehouse, located at 1 Capitol Square in downtown Columbus, is an architectural marvel, rich in history. Built in 1800’s, taking nearly 20 years to complete, it stands as a testament to Ohio’s storied past, with its cornerstone laid on July 4, 1839, and its legislative chambers and Governor’s Office occupied in 1857.
Meeting Representative Miller
Walking through the Statehouse with State Representative Melanie Miller and her Legislative Aid, Mark Everhart, getting to go on the House floor, seeing the behind scenes of the inner workings, I was struck by its historical significance. It was humbling to imagine the many influential figures that shaped the state and nation, including Abraham Lincoln, who had walked these halls and then on Saturday, April 29, 1865, Lincoln’s casket was brought to the Ohio Statehouse where he laid in state in the rotunda. The Statehouse was draped in black crepe for the occasion. Thousands of visitors came throughout the day to honor the fallen President
Meeting with Representative Miller, who is in her second year of her first term, I was eager to learn about her journey and experiences. She started by reflecting on her path to politics, which began far from the Statehouse. “Welcome to my office at the Riffe Center in Columbus,” she said warmly. “It’s been an incredible journey. I’m excited to share what the past year has been like.”
Miller’s path to the Ohio Statehouse was unconventional. Before diving into politics, she competed in pageants, a venture that laid the groundwork for her future in public service. “When I was 16, I won the title of Miss Brook Park. It was my first real taste of community service and public speaking,” she shared. Her involvement in pageants helped her develop skills that would later translate into her political career.
She recounted her initial days in office, highlighting a moving moment during her swearing-in ceremony. “We had a private swearing-in ceremony a few days before the official one. My husband, Matt, held the Bible for me, and Secretary of State Frank LaRose administered the oath in the Rotunda. I was incredibly nervous,” she admitted. This ceremony, held in December before the New Year, was a deeply personal moment for Miller and her supporters.
Navigating the Political Arena
When asked about her first experiences as a state representative, Miller reflected on the challenges and surprises she encountered. “The first few days were eye-opening,” she said. “We voted for the new Speaker of the House, and the process revealed a lot about how things operate here. I realized quickly that integrity and honor are crucial in this role.”
As a new legislator, Miller faced the monumental task of tackling Ohio’s transportation and operating budgets. “The first six months were intense. We dealt with significant issues like the transportation budget and the operating budget,” she explained. Her approach to learning involved observing, taking notes, and seeking mentorship from seasoned colleagues.
Building Confidence and Expertise
Now, nearing the end of her second year, Miller feels more confident in her role. “I definitely feel a lot more comfortable,” she said. “The first year was a steep learning curve, but I’ve gained a better understanding of parliamentary procedures, committee processes, and legislative procedures.”
Miller’s role as Chair of the Technology and Innovation Committee has been particularly fulfilling. “It’s been exciting to dive into technology and innovation,” she noted. “I’m dedicated to educating the legislature about these areas. It’s the future, and we need to be prepared for it.”
One notable opportunity she had was traveling to Israel on a House trade mission. “Israel is incredibly innovative,” Miller said, her eyes lighting up with enthusiasm. “We saw advancements in various fields, including technology and medicine. One highlight was visiting a company that produces a technology to help people with Parkinson’s. Seeing how this technology is used and then realizing that Ohio is investing in similar innovations was inspiring.”
Legislative Achievements and Challenges
Miller has been actively involved in several committees, including serving as vice chair of Families and Aging, Economic and Workforce Development, and Health Provider Services. Her role as Chair of the Technology and Innovation Committee has allowed her to influence key areas of legislative work.
Reflecting on her legislative achievements, Miller highlighted a few key successes. “One of my proudest moments was getting a baby products tax exemption included in the operating budget,” she said. “It was a way to make Ohio more family-friendly by removing taxes on baby diapers and wipes.”
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Additionally, she worked on ensuring coverage for breast milk fortifiers for premature babies, a cause close to her heart due to her work with pregnancy care centers. “We managed to include this in the budget, which will help families who face the challenge of having a premature baby,” she said.
Miller also pointed out significant reforms in the operating budget, including simplifying the tax code, reducing local business taxes, and increasing funding for education and career tech facilities. “We’ve made strides in many areas, including support for small businesses and expanding educational opportunities,” she stated.
The Never Alone Act: A Milestone in Patient Advocacy
One of Miller’s standout achievements this year is the introduction and progression of House Bill 236, known as the “Never Alone Act.” This bill addresses an near to the heart issue that emerged during the COVID-19 pandemic, when strict visitor restrictions in hospitals and nursing homes left many patients isolated from their loved ones during critical moments.
Miller, who was deeply moved by personal experiences with these restrictions, explained, “During the pandemic, many people faced the heart-wrenching reality of being separated from their loved ones in their final moments. The Never Alone Act ensures that patients can have an advocate by their side, which is crucial for both emotional support and effective communication with healthcare providers.”
The bill has successfully passed through the Health Provider Services Committee and the Ohio House, and is now under consideration by the Senate Health Committee. Miller expressed optimism about its prospects, stating, “I am hopeful that we can pass this bill before the end of the General Assembly. It represents a crucial step toward ensuring that no one has to face illness alone.”
Modernizing Cosmetology and Barber Licensing
In addition to the Never Alone Act, Miller has also championed the Cosmetology and Barber Modernization Act, a significant reform aimed at updating Ohio’s outdated licensing regulations. This bipartisan effort, led by Miller and Representative Roemer, seeks to streamline the process for entering and practicing in the cosmetology and barbering industries.
Miller noted the excessive and sometimes redundant requirements that have burdened professionals in these fields. “Many individuals have faced obstacles due to outdated regulations that don’t recognize their prior training or experience,” she said. “This bill modernizes those regulations, reduces red tape, and makes it easier for aspiring professionals to enter the industry.”
The bill has passed unanimously in both the House and Senate and was signed into law by Governor DeWine. Set to take effect in October, it includes provisions allowing individuals to start their training at age 16, a significant change that aims to foster early career development in these growing fields.
Local Investments and Community Impact
Miller’s commitment to Ashland County is evident in her success in securing funding for local projects. In the recent operating budget, she brought back $1.9 million for various initiatives, including a new sidewalk on Route 250 for safer pedestrian access, enhancements to the Ashland Theater, and support for Ashland University’s unique programs.
The capital budget also saw a historic allocation of $4.4 million for Ashland County, including $1.1 million for the renovation of Mozelle Hall at the county fairgrounds. This project will transform the space into the Ashland Civic Center, a venue for community events and fairs.
Other notable investments include $200,000 for the Ashland Fire Training Center, $100,000 for the Foundations Community Childcare Center, and support for various smaller community projects. “These investments are about more than just infrastructure; they’re about improving the quality of life for our residents and supporting our local economy,” Miller emphasized.
Looking Ahead: A Vision for the Future
As she wraps up her first term, Miller reflects on her accomplishments and looks forward to the future. Running unopposed for her second term, she plans to continue her hands-on approach to governance. “My goal is to remain accessible and responsive to the needs of our community,” she said. “We will be hosting a series of coffee and conversation sessions to engage with residents and hear their concerns directly.” “It’s been an incredible experience, and I’m honored to serve,” she said. “There’s still a lot to learn and achieve, but I’m committed to making a positive impact.”
In her role, Miller exemplifies the dedication and perseverance required to navigate the complexities of state politics. Her journey from a young pageant contestant to a state representative is a testament to her commitment to public service and the people of Ohio. As she continues to shape policy and contribute to Ohio’s legislative landscape, her story serves as an inspiration to those who aspire to make a difference through public service.
Miller also invites residents to visit the Ohio Statehouse for a tour or to attend legislative sessions. “The Statehouse is the People’s House, and I encourage everyone to come and see their government in action,” she added.
For those interested in visiting, guided tours are available daily, except on state holidays, with further information available at 614-728-3726. Miller’s office is also reachable by email at rep67@ohiohouse.gov for any inquiries or to subscribe to her e-newsletter for updates on legislation and community news.
MANSFIELD – The Ohio State Highway Patrol in partnership with the Mansfield Police Department announced that an OVI checkpoint will be held tonight from 8p.m. to 10 p.m. on Trimble Road in City of Mansfield.
The OVI checkpoint, funded by federal grant funds, is planned to deter and intercept impaired drivers.
The checkpoint will also be held in conjunction with nearby saturation patrols to aggressively combat impaired driver -related injury and fatal crashes.
If you plan to consume alcohol, designate a sober driver or make other travel arrangements before you drink. Don’t let another life be lost to the senseless and selfish act of getting behind the wheel impaired.
The Ohio State Highway Patrol reminds you to call 911 or #677 if you suspect an impaired driver.
Tim Oliver, a Columbus native now residing in Nashville, is making waves with his latest track “Wish it Would Rain” Oliver is rocking it on the third episode of the Buckeye Music Spotlight with “Reckon I Wrecked It”. Known for his dynamic presence both on and off the stage, Oliver’s new release highlights his versatility and enduring passion for music.
A fixture in the Ohio music scene, Oliver’s journey began in southeastern Ohio along the Muskingum River. He first gained prominence as the lead singer and rhythm guitarist for Exit City, an original rock band based in Columbus, from 2007 to 2010. His talent was further recognized in 2017 when he finished in the top 10 of Usher’s “Mega Star” competition.
Oliver’s debut single “Too Young,” released in the summer of 2020, marked the beginning of a promising solo career. Since then, he has released eight additional singles, earning airplay in both the UK and the US. His rise in the country music scene is further highlighted by his performances alongside notable artists such as Craig Campbell, Ernest, and Hardy.
Currently based in Nashville, Oliver frequently returns to Ohio to perform at his beloved local venues. With his ongoing success and a string of new releases on the horizon, Tim Oliver is a rising star in the country music world to watch.
For more updates on Tim Oliver’s music and upcoming releases, stay tuned to the Buckeye Music Spotlight.
Ashland University will host a Dedicatory Piano Recital on Sunday, Sept. 15, to recognize the recent restoration of its 1918 Steinway piano. The event, featuring four accomplished pianists, will take place at Elizabeth Pastor Recital Hall (room 115) inside the Center for the Arts, starting at 4 p.m. It is free and open to the public.
The restoration was done by William Schoeffler, DMA, an expert piano technician and rebuilder in northeast Ohio, thanks to the support of Thomas Gregory, Ph.D., and Deirde Gregory ’81, ’89 M.Ed. Tom Gregory was recognized with an Honorary Alumnus Award, given to a friend of the university who has demonstrated dedication to the beliefs and values of AU through service and philanthropy, while Dede Gregory was once a winner of the Distinguished Service Award, recognizing an alumna who has donated both time and talent in service to AU.
“This vintage Steinway belonged to Elizabeth Pastor, professor of piano at Ashland for decades and an accomplished artist,” remarked Rowland Blackley, DMA, chair of the music department and director of choral activities at AU. “She played frequently with the Ashland Symphony and in collaboration with other first-rate musicians over the years.
“She would have been pleased at the four guest pianists performing at the recital: the university’s current piano instructor, the conductor of the Ashland Symphony Orchestra, one of her finest students and the donor of the funds that made this possible,” he continued. “Liz was a big believer in the artistic community as part of the greater Ashland community.”
Tom Gregory will be one of the performers. An esteemed classical pianist who has played at numerous AU events, Gregory studied piano at the Oberlin Conservatory of Music before going on to a career as a mathematics research and educator at The Ohio State University at Mansfield. He holds a doctorate in mathematics from Yale University where he was a National Science Foundation fellow and sang in the Yale Russian Chorus. Gregory served as head of the systems design branch of the Management Information Center of the Naval Communications Command in Washington, D.C., before embarking on his academic career.
Kevin Jones ’85, a former student of Elizabeth Pastor, is the director of music at St. Paul’s Episcopal Church in Cleveland Hts., Ohio. After earning a bachelor’s degree in organ performance at then Ashland College, he has gone on to a career as a professional organist and choral conductor, performing internationally throughout Europe and the Far East and conducting at famed Carnegie Hall in New York City. From 1996-2004, Jones served as musical director/conductor of the NYC-based Gilbert & Sullivan ensemble, the Blue Hill Troupe, Ltd., and appeared with regularity at Carnegie Hall with Mid-America Productions.
Michael Repper, a Grammy® award-winning artistic director, currently serves as music director of the Ashland Symphony Orchestra, the Mid-Atlantic Symphony Orchestra and the Northern Neck Orchestra of Virginia. In 2023, he became the youngest North American conductor to win a Grammy® Award in Best Orchestral Performance, and he recently concluded tenures as music director of the New York Youth Symphony at Carnegie Hall and as principal conductor of Sinfonía por el Perú, the elite youth orchestras and choruses of South American’s most versatile social impact music programs.
Shitong Sigler is an instructor of piano classes at both AU and The College of Wooster. A versatile pianist whose styles range from Baroque to contemporary, she is a dedicated international performer playing as a solo pianist and chamber musician across the U.S., Europe and her home country China. Sigler has performed in various chamber music settings as the principal keyboardist for The Ohio State University Symphony Orchestra, opera production and musical theatre.
For more information, contact Rowland Blackley at rblackle@ashland.edu or 419-289-5114.
Ashland, OH — The Ashland Police Division along with Ashland Fire Department responded to a hit-and-run accident that occurred this morning, approximately 10:45 AM at the Circle K located on Cottage Street.
According to eyewitness reports, the suspect vehicle is described as a four-door, silver Ford, reportedly occupied by two black males and one white female. The car is believed to have sustained noticeable damage to the back trunk area during the accident.
Anyone with information about the vehicle or the individuals involved can contact Officer Brock of the Ashland Police Division at (419) 289-3639.
Ohio Highway Patrol, Ashland County Sheriff’s Office, Hayesville Fire Department & EMS responded to a motorcycle accident at 2210 State Route 60 around 5:10pm this evening.
Bryan Chelski, 35, of Shelby, Ohio was riding a 2016 Harley Davidson XG750 Southbound on State Route 60 when he lost control, going off the right side of the highway, crashing in the ditch.
Initially, Life Flight was requested due to the nature of the accident. However, the helicopter was called off once Chelski was transported to UH Samaritan Medical Center. Reports indicate that Chelski sustained non-life-threatening injuries.
ASHLAND, OH – Brooks Whitmore of Whitmore Motors shared exciting details about the upcoming fundraising event for the Ashland County Cancer Association. The much-anticipated car and truck show is set to rev up this Saturday, September 7, 2024, at the Ashland County Fairgrounds.
In an exclusive interview at his showroom on 106 West Main Street, Whitmore expressed his enthusiasm for the event, which marks its fourth year. “We’re very excited about this year’s show,” Whitmore said. “It will be held at the Ashland County Fairgrounds, and it’s sponsored by Whitmore Motors and the Ashland Runners Car Club. All proceeds from the event will benefit the Ashland County Cancer Association, specifically supporting local children who are struggling with cancer.”
The car show, which will take place from 10:00 AM to 4:00 PM, is a donation-only event, ensuring that every dollar raised directly supports local families. “It’s a great time for a great cause,” Whitmore noted, adding that all funds raised will remain within the community.
The event will feature a variety of activities including awards, door prizes, and a special giveaway of $500 worth of free gas cards. Local DJ John C. will provide entertainment.
Whitmore is optimistic about the weather, noting that his wife, a pastor, has assured him of favorable conditions for the day.
For those interested in attending, the Ashland County Fairgrounds is located at 2042 Claremont Avenue, Ashland. Attendees are encouraged to come out, enjoy the show, and support a worthy cause.
For more information or questions about the event, contact 419-566-5857.
Event Details:
Date: Saturday, September 7, 2024
Time: 10:00 AM – 4:00 PM
Location: Ashland County Fairgrounds, 2042 Claremont Avenue, Ashland
Admission: Donation only
Entertainment: Music by John C., door prizes, dash plaques, and gas card giveaways
Sponsors: Whitmore Motors & Road Runners Car Club
Don’t miss out on this opportunity to support local cancer patients while enjoying a day filled with classic cars and community spirit!
ASHLAND, Ohio – Dick Ruhl, who made contributions to the success of Ashland University as a longtime member of the AU Board of Trustees (1992-2009), is still making an impact and improving the quality of education and the quality of life for AU students after his passing.
A highly successful businessman in Columbus, Ohio, Ruhl passed away this past December at the age of 86. While still mourning his loss, Jody Ruhl ‘92, the youngest of his three daughters, felt privileged to personally deliver the remainder of the estate gift to AU President Jon Peede in August.
The total bequest was $600,000, which will help to complete a number of recent and ongoing projects at the university:
· Renovations to the upper level of the John C. Myers Convocation Center
Jody Ruhl remarked that her father would be overjoyed his gift is able to impact so many different areas of campus.
“He would love it, he would. He would have been really happy that the money is going to several areas, not just one area of campus,” she said. “And, that’s what I like. He had a term … spreading the wealth and that was kind of his motto. I think it’s great it’s going to Convo, to band uniforms, etc.”
Peede agreed and told Jody Ruhl, “What I really love about your father’s gift is that comprehensiveness. I think in life we want to be full people. We want to live in full communities. We want our mind, body and soul engaged.”
“So, it’s this idea … you can be a scholar-athlete, you can be in the fine arts, you can be in the sciences, then when you finish you can come to a great convening right here (Convocation Center),” he continued. “What a legacy, and we’ve used several times his gift, but it’s a family decision that says from the resources and capacities of this family, we’re giving this. And, that’s special.”
In addition to serving on the AU Board of Trustees for nearly two full decades, Dick Ruhl was recognized with the Honorary Alumnus Award (2010), given to a friend of the university who demonstrated dedication to the beliefs and values of the university through service and philanthropy.
Jody Ruhl majored in fashion merchandising, studied abroad in Mexico and was a member of the Alpha Phi sorority during her undergraduate days, and her greatest memory came at graduation when her father handed her diploma on stage. AU had been the ideal match for her.
“I loved Ashland. Small classes and individualized attention were exactly what I needed. And, it was only an hour and a half from home, so it was a perfect fit,” said Ruhl, who has served on the AU Alumni Board.
The family’s legacy at AU continues to this day. Molly Hopson Kindel, a niece of Jody Ruhl, just graduated from the Masters of Education program this spring. She earned the M.Ed. degree, specializing in literacy, curriculum and instruction with a reading endorsement, to advance her career as a teacher in the Jonathan Alder Local School District.
As Jody Ruhl reflected on her family’s passion for AU, she said it all started when her father was a teenager and didn’t think he had the finances or the grades to go to college, but was inspired by the advice from a professor to pursue higher education. That may have fueled him to help others in similar situations.
“He didn’t know his calling in life right off the bat,” Ruhl noted. “I think he (thought) back about the people who gave him chances as well.”
Dick Ruhl’s repeated gifts—his lifetime giving to AU totals more than $1.6 million—have provided a number of significant enhancements to the AU student experience. Prior to the estate gift, his philanthropy has impacted the annual fund, the Ashbrook Center, the Dwight Schar College of Nursing and Health Sciences, the Rinehart Center for Religious Studies, the women’s basketball program and other areas.
“We always need a reminder what are we doing this for … what’s the mission,” said Peede. “We’re trying to help these young people with their calling in life.”
Clarksfield Township – The Ohio State Highway Patrol’s Norwalk Post is currently investigating a serious single-vehicle crash that occurred on August 30, 2024, at approximately 9:05 P.M. The crash occurred on State Route 60 south of Auster Road in Wakeman Township, Huron County.
Dylan Steen, a 26-year-old from Ashland, Ohio, was driving a 2024 Indian Challenger Dark Horse southbound on State Route 60. Mr. Steen failed to negotiate the curve, causing the motorcycle to leave the roadway on the left side. The vehicle then struck a ditch and overturned.
At the time of the crash, Mr. Steen was not wearing a helmet and was ejected from the motorcycle. He sustained serious injuries and was airlifted to Cleveland Metro Hospital by Life Flight.
Preliminary investigations suggest that speed and alcohol use may have contributed to the crash, though the incident remains under investigation.
The Ohio State Highway Patrol was assisted on scene by Wakeman Police Department, Wakeman Township Fire Department, Citizen’s Ambulance, Metro Lifeflight, and Interstate Towing.
Clarksfield Township – The Ohio State Highway Patrol’s Norwalk Post is currently investigating a serious single-vehicle crash that occurred on August 30, 2024, at approximately 9:05 P.M. The crash occurred on State Route 60 south of Auster Road in Wakeman Township, Huron County.
Dylan Steen, a 26-year-old from Ashland, Ohio, was driving a 2024 Indian Challenger Dark Horse southbound on State Route 60. Mr. Steen failed to negotiate the curve, causing the motorcycle to leave the roadway on the left side. The vehicle then struck a ditch and overturned.
At the time of the crash, Mr. Steen was not wearing a helmet and was ejected from the motorcycle. He sustained serious injuries and was airlifted to Cleveland Metro Hospital by Life Flight.
Preliminary investigations suggest that speed and alcohol use may have contributed to the crash, though the incident remains under investigation.
The Ohio State Highway Patrol was assisted on scene by Wakeman Police Department, Wakeman Township Fire Department, Citizen’s Ambulance, Metro Lifeflight, and Interstate Towing.
Joe Lyons •
September 8, 2024
