ASHLAND, Ohio – The Ashland University Department of Theatre’s next production will be “Merrily We Roll Along,” a Stephen Sondheim and George Furth musical to be held Thursday through Sunday, Feb. 15-18, at the Hugo Young Theatre. The Thursday, Friday and Saturday shows begin at 7:30 p.m. and Sunday’s matinee is at 2 p.m.
“Merrily We Roll Along” features Sondheim’s music and lyrics and Furth’s book, which are based on the 1934 original play of the same name by George S. Kaufman and Moss Hart. This production will be directed by Teresa Durbin-Ames, associate professor of theatre at AU, with Deb Logan as the music director and Katie Gibson in charge of choreography.
“Merrily We Roll Along” is a captivating and emotional journey through time, exploring the complexities of friendship, ambition, dreams and the choices we make in life, according to Durbin-Ames. The story follows Franklin Shepard, played by Tobin Grendzynski, and his friends Charley Kringas, played by Anthony Marchetta, and Mary Flynn, played by Emilee Fletcher. Shepard is a composer of Broadway musicals, Kringas a playwright and Flynn a writer, and their personal and professional aspirations test the bonds of friendship.
Also included in the talented cast are Leanna Uselton as Gussie Carnegie, Ellie Nickoli as Beth Spencer and Keever Whitehead as Joe Josephson. The ensemble includes Lily Dowler, Elizabeth Harris, Anthony McFee, Gabe Noble, Bolaji Ogunniran and Ray Yeh, while the cast also consists of community members Tom Cline, Parker Kipp and Alex Ramsey.
In addition to Logan and Gibson, the production staff is composed of Justin Miller, set and projection designer; Justin Bilewicz ’09, costume designer; Seth Morrison ’18, lighting designer and technical director; and Richard Ingraham, sound designer. The student crew includes Hermelinda (Mela) Abarca, Belle Ayala, Jesse Baker, Eiley McCardle, Brooke McNeil, props master Marisa Hazlett and stage manager Mikehlah Carr.
Alumni and friends of AU Theatre are invited to an open house and dinner before the Saturday performance. The open house in the Center for the Arts starts at 4 p.m., followed by a buffet dinner in Redwood Hall at 5:30 p.m.
Tickets can be purchased from the AU Campus Store in person or online at ashland.edu/performing-arts-tickets. They will not be available for purchase at the door. Tickets are $2 for AU students, $5 for non-AU students and $10 for adults, faculty/staff and senior citizens, while tickets for the dinner are $15. This production is licensed by Music Theatre International.
In Ashland County, there is a candidate for sheriff who brings a wealth of experience and a deep commitment to upholding the constitution and keeping families safe. Kurt Schneider, a 13-year Ashland Sheriff’s Deputy, is running for Sheriff with the goal of improving response times for emergency calls and combating the growing problem of human trafficking and drug abuse in the county. With a background in law enforcement and public safety, Schneider is well-equipped to take on the challenges of the role and ensure the safety and well-being of Ashland County residents.
A Lifetime of Public Service
Kurt Schneider’s passion for public service started at a young age. Coming from a family of public servants, with grandparents working in the police and fire departments and parents in public safety and education, Schneider was inspired to follow in their footsteps. In high school, he became a volunteer firefighter and began pursuing his interest in investigating arson cases.
After graduating from the University of Cincinnati with degrees in Fire Science Engineering and Criminal Justice Technology – Law Enforcement, Schneider embarked on a career in law enforcement. He started as a police officer and gained experience in various areas of law enforcement and investigation, including being a beat cop, fire investigator, paramedic, sheriff’s deputy, and bomb technician. His 13 years in the Sheriff’s office allowed him to work in different departments, from corrections to road patrol and administration to specialized units like the K-9 and bomb unit.
Commitment to Protecting Ashland County Families
As a local business owner and a resident of Ashland County, Kurt Schneider is deeply invested in the safety and well-being of the community. He understands the unique challenges that the county faces and is committed to tackling them head-on. Schneider emphasizes the importance of reducing response times for emergency calls, citing a tragic case in 2016 where a woman had to whisper her life-threatening situation to multiple people during a 911 call while her abductor slept nearby. He is determined to ensure that such incidents are not repeated and that Ashland County residents can rely on swift and effective emergency services.
Another top priority for Schneider is combating the scourge of human trafficking and drug abuse in the county. He firmly believes that being a pro-life sheriff means actively fighting against the drug epidemic on our streets and taking a proactive approach to keeping schools safe. Schneider promises to use every available resource to address these pressing issues and protect the lives of Ashland County residents.
Kurt Schneider’s extensive experience in law enforcement and public safety, combined with his dedication to upholding the constitution and keeping families safe, make him an ideal candidate for the position of Sheriff in Ashland County. With his background as a third-generation public servant and his commitment to reducing response times for emergency calls and combating human trafficking and drug abuse, Schneider is well-positioned to lead the Sheriff’s office and ensure the safety and well-being of Ashland County residents. As the election approaches, residents have the opportunity to support a candidate who brings a wealth of experience, expertise, and a deep sense of commitment to their community.
Come and meet Kurt Schneider, candidate for Ashland County Sheriff! Kurt is committed to upholding the Constitution and protecting Ashland county families.
This free event will take place at The Greens Bistro on Monday February 19th between 4:30 PM and 6:30PM. Light appetizers and refreshments will be served for your enjoyment!
Thank you to Bill Harris Dealerships for sponsoring Ashland County Pictures “What’s News in Loudonville” With Mayor Jason VanSickle todays topics are:
Sports
Winterfest
Ladies Night
Downtown Revitalization
Mohican Community Theatre Presents
“Disenchanted”
Showtimes:
Friday, February 9th at 7:00
Saturday, February 10th at 7:00
Sunday, February 11th at 2:00
Friday, February 16th at 7:00
Saturday, February 17th at 7:00
Sunday, February 18th at 2:00
Sponsored by Bill Harris Dealerships
I would like to give a huge shout-out to Bill Harris Dealerships for sponsoring the monthly updates “What’s News in Loudonville” With Mayor Jason VanSickle
This exciting endeavor will help to ensure that Ashland County Pictures (ACP) will be able to continue serving the Ashland area with breaking news and up to date information.
In a rather unexpected turn of events, the Ashland Police Division Officers found themselves taking a routine traffic stop to a whole new level.
It all unfolded on this sunny Ashland afternoon, around 2:30 pm, just in front of the Denny’s off US Route 250.
What started as a seemingly unremarkable traffic stop escalated into the apprehension of two individuals and the recovery of a stash of drugs after a thorough search of the vehicle.
The identities of the culprits remain shrouded in mystery as charges are still pending against them.
What we do know is that the driver, a 47-year-old man hailing from Columbus, Ohio, had an equally suspicious passenger, a 46-year-old male resident of Mount Vernon, Ohio.
To complicate matters further, during the arrest, one of the perpetrators, who seemingly needed a few more hours before going to jail, requested EMS to be called. Well, that call for aid ended up leading to him being transported to the ER, albeit in a more comfortable setting.
Now, the charges against both individuals are currently under review, leaving us eagerly awaiting the forthcoming details.
It seems like the criminals just can’t resist the allure of getting tangled up in Ashland’s web of justice.
COLUMBUS—The Ohio House of Representatives today passed Substitute House Bill 2, which will invest the $350 million Strategic Community Investment Fund into projects throughout Ohio, announced State Rep. Melanie Miller (R-Ashland).
This one-time funding will be administered to statewide, regional, and local projects, with almost $1.3 million which will directly serve Ashland and Medina Counties.
“I am delighted to see these projects coming to the 67th District,” said Miller. “These investments in our community will have an impact for years to come.”
Miller championed several provisions that will positively impact Ashland and Medina Counties:
$1,000,000 to modernize the Ashland County Fairgrounds and build a new Mozelle Hall; and
$200,000 to build The Davy McClure Outdoor Education Shelter in the Ashland County Park District, creating an educational resource for the community;
$36,834 to install tornado sirens at the Homer Township Community Center;
$30,000 to renovate the Rowsburg Community Center, for residents to gather together;
$25,000 to expand sidewalks in Hayesville, connecting the southern portion of the village.
In addition to these local investments, Sub. House Bill 2 also included additional statewide capital investments of:
$600 million for the School Building Program Assistance Fund;
$400 million for the Public Works Commission Local Public Infrastructure and State Capital Improvement Program;
$397.6 million for higher education projects around the state; and
$250 million for local jail construction across Ohio.
The Strategic Community Investment Fund was established in the state’s main operating budget passed last year and includes excess funding from the previous fiscal year. Due to conservative fiscal stewardship, the Ohio House was able to dedicate this excess toward projects that will move Ohio forward.
This funding will be incorporated as part of the greater State Capital Budget bill, a two-year construction budget for capital projects.
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State Representative Melanie Miller is currently serving her first term in the Ohio House of Representatives. She represents the 67th House District, which includes all of Ashland County and the western portion of Medina County.
Featuring Dinesh D’Souza, Dan Bongino & Nick Searcy
Tuesday, February 13 at 5:30 pm
At the Ashland Sheriff’s Annex 1205 E. Main Street, Ashland
IS THE UNITED STATES BECOMING A POLICE STATE?
Incredibly, the answer is yes and both sides of the political aisle agree. The only difference is that each accuses the other of seeking to establish a police state?
Who’s right? This film resolves the question by defining what a police state is, showing how it got started, how it operates, who’s behind it, and who’s in charge!
Feel free to bring your own snacks
Note: There is a seating limit. If necessary, we will have an additional showing at a later date
Hold the phone, folks! It seems a resident in Ashland County, Ohio could be walking around with a grin wider than the Mississippi River. Why, you might ask? Well, it turns out this lucky individual has got their hands on a Mega Millions ticket worth a cool $1 million!
Now, before we start imagining fancy yachts and endless vacations, let’s get into the nitty-gritty details. The ticket in question was sold at none other than the Beer Barrel Drive Thru in Ashland, a spot where dreams apparently come true.
Interestingly enough, this ticket was an auto-pick, meaning the stars aligned and the primary white balls matched up perfectly, granting our hero the million-dollar prize. Unfortunately, they missed out on the $358 million jackpot due to the Mega Ball slipping from their grasp.
Those winning numbers from Tuesday night’s drawing were 2, 10, 31, 44, 57, and don’t forget the Mega Ball 10 for good measure.
As luck would have it, there were also other fortunate souls out there with their own $1 million tickets. Two tickets, one sold in California, and the other in Pennsylvania, joined our Ashland County resident in the winner’s circle.
So, while we’re not quite retiring to our private islands just yet, we can’t help but celebrate the joy and the what-ifs that this remarkable story brings. Cheers to you, mystery winner, and may your newfound fortune bring you endless happiness and a lifetime supply of high-fives!
I would like to give a huge shout-out to Bill Harris Dealerships for sponsoring Ashland County Pictures. This will help to ensure that Ashland County Pictures (ACP News) will be able to continue serving the Ashland area with breaking news and up to date information.
Ashland County Sheriff’s Office, Hayesville Fire & EMS responded to a Dirt Bike versus Car accident in Hayesville on State Route 60 at High Street 7:09pm tonight.
A 2023 Hyundai going Southbound on State Route 60 (Mechanic Street) attempted to turn left on High Street when it was struck by a 2021 Kawasaki Dirt Bike going Northbound on State Route 60.
The driver of the 2021 Kawasaki Dirt Bike was transported to Ashland-Ohio-Health with Non-Life-Threatening-Injuries.
2023 Hyundai driver was not injured.
The driver of the 2021 Kawasaki Dirt Bike was cited due to the fact he had an off road motorbike with no lights, or tags on a State Highway, Assured Clear Distance Ahead (ACDA), No motorcycle endorsement.
Ashland County Sheriff’s Office, Nankin / Orange Township Fire Department, and Savannah Fire Department responded to a pick-up truck fire at the intersection of Ashland County Road 601 and State Route 58 this morning.
No reported injuries
I would like to give a huge shout-out to Bill Harris Dealerships for sponsoring Ashland County Pictures. This will help to ensure that Ashland County Pictures (ACP News) will be able to continue serving the Ashland area with breaking news and up to date information.
In a recent press release, Sheriff Steve Sheldon of the Richland County Sheriff’s Office addressed false allegations made against Major Joe Masi and Captain James Sweat. These allegations, brought forth by two former employees and one current employee, have garnered attention and caused concern. However, in their statement, Sheriff Sheldon sheds light on the truth behind these accusations and emphasizes the outstanding character and dedication of Major Masi and Captain Sweat.
According to Sheriff Steve Sheldon, the Richland County Sheriff’s Office has not received any formal complaints or copies of EEOC (Equal Employment Opportunity Commission) complaints related to the allegations against Major Joe Masi and Captain James Sweat. The article published by the Mansfield News Journal, which brought these allegations to light, reference these supposed complaints. However, after reaching out to the EEOC, the Sheriff’s Office was informed that no such documents had been filed.
While Sheriff Sheldon refrains from commenting on the specific details mentioned in the article, he highlights that Major Joe Masi and Captain James Sweat are both exemplary law enforcement officers who consistently go above and beyond the call of duty. These individuals have shown unwavering dedication towards serving the residents of Richland County and upholding the values of the Sheriff’s Office. Sheriff Sheldon asserts that it is crucial to allow the legal process to run its course before making any definitive statements.
Major Joe Masi and Captain James Sweat have demonstrated exceptional commitment, skill, and professionalism throughout their careers in law enforcement. Their dedication to upholding the law, ensuring public safety, and protecting the residents of Richland County is evident in their actions and accomplishments. From their extensive knowledge of the law to their effective leadership, Major Masi and Captain Sweat have proven time and again that they are valuable assets to the Sheriff’s Office.
Sheriff Sheldon does not extend the same praise to the two disgruntled former employees who filed the allegations nor to Ms. Spicer, the current employee involved. He emphasizes that Ms. Spicer has received multiple opportunities to improve her performance and meet acceptable standards. Documentation in the form of performance improvement plans, evaluations, and other employment files clearly indicate the areas in which improvement is required. It is important to note that these records are public and can be accessed for a comprehensive understanding of the situation.
Sheriff Steve Sheldon raises a valid concern regarding the article’s publication by the Mansfield News Journal. The article was published without any request for or retrieval of available public records from the Richland County Sheriff’s Office. This oversight limits the readers’ perspective and exposes them to potentially biased information. Sheriff Sheldon encourages responsible journalism and urges individuals to seek out accurate and complete information before forming judgments.
The press release by Sheriff Steve Sheldon of the Richland County Sheriff’s Office aims to dispel false accusations made against Major Joe Masi and Captain James Sweat. While formal complaints have not been received by the Sheriff’s Office, Sheriff Sheldon emphasizes the need to allow the legal process to unfold. The exemplary service of Major Masi and Captain Sweat is acknowledged, while concerns are raised regarding the performance levels of the current and former employees involved. As readers, it is essential that we approach such situations with an open mind, considering all available information before forming our opinions.
Joe Lyons •
February 8, 2024
ASHLAND, Ohio – The Ashland University Department of Theatre’s next production will be “Merrily We Roll Along,” a Stephen Sondheim and George Furth musical to be held Thursday through Sunday, Feb. 15-18, at the Hugo Young Theatre. The Thursday, Friday and Saturday shows begin at 7:30 p.m. and Sunday’s matinee is at 2 p.m.
In Ashland County, there is a candidate for sheriff who brings a wealth of experience and a deep commitment to upholding the constitution and keeping families safe. Kurt Schneider, a 13-year Ashland Sheriff’s Deputy, is running for Sheriff with the goal of improving response times for emergency calls and combating the growing problem of human trafficking and drug abuse in the county. With a background in law enforcement and public safety, Schneider is well-equipped to take on the challenges of the role and ensure the safety and well-being of Ashland County residents.
COLUMBUS—The Ohio House of Representatives today passed Substitute House Bill 2, which will invest the $350 million Strategic Community Investment Fund into projects throughout Ohio, announced State Rep. Melanie Miller (R-Ashland).
In a recent press release, Sheriff Steve Sheldon of the Richland County Sheriff’s Office addressed false allegations made against Major Joe Masi and Captain James Sweat. These allegations, brought forth by two former employees and one current employee, have garnered attention and caused concern. However, in their statement, Sheriff Sheldon sheds light on the truth behind these accusations and emphasizes the outstanding character and dedication of Major Masi and Captain Sweat.