Ashland University and Ashland Kroc Youth Theatre Present ‘The Sound of Music’ in a Historic Collaboration
ASHLAND, Ohio – The local arts scene is about to shine even brighter as Ashland University’s Theatre Department and The Ashland Kroc Youth Theatre program unite for the first time to present the beloved musical “The Sound of Music.” The production will take place from March 21-23 at the Hugo Young Theatre, located at the Ashland University Center for the Arts, 331 College Avenue.
Directed by Teresa Durbin-Ames, Ph.D., Artistic Director and Associate Professor of Theatre at Ashland University, this collaboration marks a significant milestone for both organizations. Assisting in musical and movement direction are Majors Billy and Annalise Francis, Corps Officers and Administrators of The Salvation Army Ashland Kroc Center.
“This partnership provides an opportunity for the university to engage directly with the community, promoting the arts, bringing new people to campus, and creating future audiences,” Dr. Durbin-Ames explained. “It is exciting to see the AU students working with the young cast members on this beautiful show. Not only do the youth get to watch how someone older creates a role, but the college students also get to experience the enthusiasm and commitment that the youth bring to every rehearsal.”
A Unique Mentorship Opportunity
Auditions for the production were held in January, drawing a talented pool of young and seasoned actors. The collaboration aims to provide a mentorship experience, where university students guide and support young actors from The Ashland Kroc Youth Theatre.
Major Billy Francis emphasized the significance of this experience: “What an amazing opportunity this is to partner with Ashland University’s Theatre Department on ‘The Sound of Music.’ While many of the selected cast members have been with The Ashland Kroc Youth Theatre for multiple productions, this partnership allows them to learn from collegiate-level thespians and perform on a larger stage.”
A Dedicated Cast Ready to Perform
A mix of local and university talent has been cast to bring this timeless musical to life. Key roles include:
Maria Rainer – Ellie Nickoli (Lexington, OH)
Captain Georg von Trapp – Keever Whitehead (Lewis Center, OH)
Mother Abbess – Emilee Fletcher (Centerburg, OH)
Liesl von Trapp – Callina Francis (Ashland, OH)
Rolf Gruber – Owen Radebaugh (Ashland, OH)
Friedrich von Trapp (dual casted) – Trevor Kellogg & Nolan Shambaugh (Ashland, OH)
The young actors have shown remarkable dedication, with some recently coming off a successful performance of “The Music Man Jr.” Their enthusiasm and commitment to rehearsals promise an exceptional show that will captivate audiences of all ages.
Show Dates & Ticket Information
Performances will take place on the following dates and times:
Friday, March 21 at 7 p.m.
Saturday, March 22 at 2 p.m. & 7 p.m.
Sunday, March 23 at 2 p.m.
Tickets are available for purchase at the AU Campus Store or online at www.ashland.edu/performing-arts-tickets. Early ticket purchases are encouraged to secure the best seats for this unforgettable production.
A Classic Musical for All Generations
“The Sound of Music” is a timeless story of love, music, and resilience, set against the backdrop of World War II Austria. The show is presented by arrangement with Concord Theatricals on behalf of The Rodgers & Hammerstein Organization. Music is composed by Richard Rodgers, with lyrics by Oscar Hammerstein II, and a book by Howard Lindsay and Russell Crouse, inspired by “The Story of the Trapp Family Singers” by Maria Augusta Trapp.
For more information, follow Ashland Kroc Center on Facebook or @AshlandKroc on Instagram. Questions? Call the Ashland Kroc Center at (419) 281-8001.
About The Salvation Army
The Salvation Army helps over 23 million Americans annually by providing essential services such as food, shelter, and addiction recovery programs. With over 7,600 centers nationwide, it is one of the most impactful nonprofit organizations in the country. For more information, visit SalvationArmyUSA.org or AshlandKroc.org.
Don’t Miss This Spectacular Performance!
With an incredible partnership between university students and young theatre enthusiasts, Ashland’s production of “The Sound of Music” is set to be a must-see event. Secure your tickets today and experience the magic of this legendary musical live on stage!
Genesis Christian Academy Students Visit Ohio Statehouse for an Immersive Government Experience
COLUMBUS, OH— Students from Genesis Christian Academy recently had the unique opportunity to witness democracy in action during a field trip to the Ohio Statehouse on Wednesday, February 26. Led by their American History teacher, Kenneth Hammontree, the students explored the historic government building and observed state representatives voting on a major bill in the Ohio House.
The trip was made possible by Representative Melanie Miller (R-67th District), who invited the students to the Statehouse in Columbus. After an extensive tour of the Capitol building, Rep. Miller engaged the students in a discussion on the legislative process, explaining how a bill becomes law. She also participated in a Q&A session, sharing insights about her role as an elected official representing Ashland County and portions of Medina County.
One of the most fascinating takeaways for the students was learning about President Abraham Lincoln’s historical visits to the chamber, including the fact that his body lay in state there while en route to Illinois for burial following his assassination.
The Ohio Statehouse is more than just the seat of government—it is a site of rich history and national significance. Situated on a 10-acre parcel of land donated by John Kerr, Lyne Starling, John Johnston, and Alexander McLaughlin, the building stands as a symbol of democracy and resilience.
Construction of the Greek Revival-style structure began on July 4, 1839, with the ceremonial laying of the cornerstone. Prison labor from the Ohio Penitentiary was initially used to construct the foundation and ground floors, though objections from skilled tradesmen led to changes in hiring practices for the remainder of the construction. The building was completed 22 years later in 1861, after facing multiple interruptions due to harsh winters, budget overruns, and an eight-year gap (1840-1848) when the status of Columbus as the state capital was uncertain.
One of the most unique aspects of the Ohio Statehouse is its Columbus limestone structure, with stone quarried from the west banks of the Scioto River. The foundation itself is more than 18 feet deep.
Genesis Christian Academy is known for its hands-on educational experiences. Last October, the school’s history classes traveled to Gettysburg, Pennsylvania, for an immersive study of the Civil War.
Looking ahead, many are eager to see what Mr. Hammontree’s next field trip will be. With past trips offering unique learning experiences beyond the classroom, students at Genesis Christian Academy (GCA) continue to gain opportunities that many public school students may never experience.
As Ashland County’s only Christian high school, GCA provides a faith-based education rooted in a Biblical worldview. With students from approximately 20 different churches, the school remains non-denominational but united under the gospel of Jesus Christ. Now in its eighth year, GCA strives to keep tuition affordable and does not receive state or federal funding. For more information, visit Genesis Christian Academy in Ashland, Ohio.
Located at 810 Katherine Ave., Ashland, Ohio, Genesis Christian Academy is a comprehensive, non-traditional Christian high school designed for grades 9-12. The school operates like a college campus, where students follow a flexible university-style schedule.
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.
Special thanks to Representative Melanie Miller and her Legislative Aid, Mark Everhart were awesome host!
Ashland County Sheriff’s Office Seeks Information on Found Puppy
Ashland County, OH – The Ashland County Sheriff’s Office is asking for the public’s help in identifying the owner of a young puppy found wandering along State Route 60.
The 3-month-old male hound mix was discovered on February 24, 2025, and is currently in the care of authorities.
Anyone with information regarding the puppy or its owner is urged to contact the Ashland County Sheriff’s Office Dispatch at (419) 289-3911.
Authorities remind residents that lost or stray animals should be reported to local law enforcement or Ashland County Dog Warden to ensure their safety.
On Wednesday, February 26, 2025, at 4:21 PM, the Shelby Police Department received a call of a burglary in progress at an address on Broadway. It was reported that three males wearing masks had entered a residence through a window and returned to a vehicle a short time later carrying multiple items. The caller advised that the vehicle fled the scene in a black Audi SUV eastbound on E. Smiley Ave.
Officer Cody Baker responded to the area of flight and observed the suspect vehicle turn in front of him at the intersection of Plymouth Springmill at SR96. Ofc Baker initiated a traffic stop. The vehicle initially stopped, but while in the process of ordering the occupants out of the vehicle, the driver fled at a high rate of speed and Officer Baker initiated a pursuit.
The pursuit went from Richland County into Ashland County with the vehicle reaching speeds in excess of 100 MPH and involved in additional minor traffic accidents. A firearm was thrown from the vehicle during the pursuit and later recovered. The Ashland County Sheriff’s Office, Ashland Police Department and Ohio State Highway Patrol joined in the pursuit.
Pursuit termination techniques were used which ultimately led to the vehicle leaving the roadway. Upon stopping, multiple occupants fled from the vehicle, but all suspects were apprehended.
Five juveniles were arrested and identified, and ultimately all were transported to the Shelby Police Department; all five were charged with a single count of Aggravated Burglary and transported to the Richland County Juvenile Detention Center, awaiting court appearances. The suspect vehicle was seized and towed by Ashland Police pending a search warrant to recover items from the burglary.
We extend our sincere thanks and appreciation to our partners at the Ashland County Sheriff’s Office, Ashland Police Department, Richland County Sheriff’s Office, and the Ohio State Highway Patrol for their cooperation and assistance with this pursuit.
Ashland Police Division Personnel Honored at Awards Banquet
On February 22, 2025, the Ashland Police Division recognized personnel in a ceremony held at Mount Vernon Estate. In addition to the division-issued awards, State Representative Melanie Miller was present to recognize APD personnel with certificates of commendation from the 67th Ohio House District.
Representative Miller opened the ceremony by summarizing legislation that could impact Ohio law enforcement agencies in 2025.
Chief of Police David Lay presented the following awards during the ceremony:
Officer Adam Srnis for 5 Years of Service to the Ashland community.
Officer Tevin McGuire for an Educational Achievement Award after completing an Associate of Applied Science in Criminal Justice Degree at North Central State College.
Two groups of officers were presented with Unit Citations to recognize coordinated teamwork during incidents that are not typical of their basic duties. The first group of citations stemmed from the quick response to a robbery at Rite Aid in June 2024 that ultimately ended in the apprehension of four suspects. Recognized for their work on this case were Lieutenant Aaron Kline, Sergeant Lee Eggeman, Officer Adam Brock, Officer Kirby Clemens, Officer Kyle Dress and K9 Athos, Officer Timothy McGlugritch, Officer Adam Wolbert, Detective James Coey and Detective Kody Hying.
The second Unit Citation resulted from a grand theft investigation at Bill Harris car dealership in December 2024. Officers were investigating the report of an attempted motor vehicle theft from the lot and tried to stop a suspect as it left the area. The vehicle crashed after a short pursuit, and the suspects fled on foot, sparking a three-hour search that ultimately resulted in the arrests of four suspects. Captain Craig Kiley, Sergeant Jonathan Kohler, Officer Joseph Artrip, Officer Tevin McGuire, Officer Bryce Stormer, K9 Smokey, Detective Lieutenant Curt Dorsey, and Detective James Coey received recognition for their work on this case.
Officer Abrahm Neumann earned a Meritorious Service Award for risking his safety to rescue a dog falling through the ice at Brookside Park Pond in January 2024. Although he was successful in helping the dog, Abe also fell through the ice and could not get out of the water by himself. Officer Joseph Artrip rescued Officer Neumann from the pond with the help of two off-duty EMTs. For his efforts, Officer Artrip earned a Life-Saving Award.
The 2024 peer vote awards went to the following staff:
Records Specialist Morgan Shilliday was awarded Civilian of the Year. Morgan has worked in the Records Bureau for three years. Her responsibilities in Records included body-camera redactions and assisting administration as a backup for payroll submissions. Morgan’s peers described her as helpful, hard-working, knowledgeable, happy, friendly, thorough, and trustworthy.
2025 Ashland Police Division Awards Saturday, Feb. 22, 2025. PHOTO BY TOM E. PUSKAR
Morgan was assigned to the Detective Bureau through February 21, helping them with case reports and evidence. On Monday, February 24, Morgan’s job classification changes to Police Recruit as she begins the Police Academy at North Central State College. Chief Lay said, “We are excited that Morgan chose to pursue a career in law enforcement with the City of Ashland, and we can’t wait to see what this next chapter brings.”
Officer of the Year honors went to Adam Srnis. Adam previously won the award in 2022. He also earned Chief’s Achievement Award honors in 2023. Adam’s coworkers described him as dedicated, proactive, hard-working, and honest. Chief Lay remarked, “Three performance recognitions in the first five years of a career is remarkable and they are a testament to how Adam’s character aligns with the qualities that we believe provide the best police service to the community.”
2025 Ashland Police Division Awards Saturday, Feb. 22, 2025. PHOTO BY TOM E. PUSKAR
Detective Lieutenant Curt Dorsey won Supervisor of the Year. Curt has served the Ashland community for eighteen years. He currently leads the Detective Bureau and manages the case follow-up Division-wide. Curt’s peers and direct reports described him as a good leader who is helpful, hard-working, and friendly. Lieutenant Dorsey has been very involved in the Division’s community policing efforts, coordinating the Fishing Derby since its inception. Chief Lay said, “Curt is willing to take on any task and has been instrumental in the successful completion of a number of Division projects.”
2025 Ashland Police Division Awards Saturday, Feb. 22, 2025. PHOTO BY TOM E. PUSKAR
The Chief’s Achievement Award presentation ended the evening, with Detective Kara Pearce receiving the honors. Kara began her career in public safety as a firefighter and EMT with the Loudonville Fire Department after graduating from Loudonville High School in 2009. She also worked as a Dispatcher for the Ashland County Sheriff’s Office and the Loudonville Police Department. After graduating from the Police Academy, Kara continued to work for LPD before joining the Ashland Police Division in 2016.
2025 Ashland Police Division Awards Saturday, Feb. 22, 2025. PHOTO BY TOM E. PUSKAR
In her 8-year career with APD, Kara has served as a Field Training Officer, Evidence Custodian, and Crisis Negotiator. She has been assigned to the Detective Bureau for three years and is a forensic interviewer. Kara enjoys her role as an investigator, her interactions with children, and helping them deal with trauma.
Kara coordinates the Division’s most significant community engagement program, Shop with a Cop, and the fundraising efforts leading up to the event. That program allows several hundred children to experience a nice Christmas that otherwise may not have had the opportunity every year. Chief Lay noted, “Kara’s capacity for empathy and compassion for others stands out. People routinely ask me how Kara is doing and then share a story about how she helped them once.”
Mayor Matt Miller closed the ceremony by thanking those in attendance for their commitment to public safety and keeping the City safe.
Car Collides with Semi on US Route 30 in Ashland County; One Injured
Ashland County, Ohio – Emergency crews responded to a crash involving a car and a semi-truck on the westbound lanes of US Route 30, just east of County Road 175, at approximately 7:20 p.m. tonight.
According to the Ohio State Highway Patrol, 24-year-old Landry Amstutz of Dalton, Ohio, was driving a Honda CR-V westbound on the highway when his vehicle went off the right side of the road. The car struck the trailer of a 2020 Mack semi-truck, which had been pulled onto the shoulder.
The semi’s driver, Chad Miller, 52, of Bucyrus, Ohio, had stopped to inspect his truck after experiencing a blown right-side steer tire. While he was checking the tire, the Honda collided with the rear of the trailer, causing the SUV to spin back onto the roadway. The Honda rolled over before coming to rest in the median.
Jeromesville Fire Department and EMS responded to the scene. Amstutz was transported to University Hospitals Samaritan Medical Center with non-life-threatening injuries. Miller was uninjured.
Highway Patrol confirmed that drugs and alcohol are not suspected factors in the crash. The Ashland Post of the Ohio State Highway Patrol is continuing its investigation.
Antlers & Anglers Sportsman’s Showcase Returns to Ashland County March 8-9, 2025
Ashland, OH – Outdoor enthusiasts, mark your calendars! The highly anticipated Antlers & Anglers Sportsman’s Showcase returns to the Ashland County Fairgrounds on March 8-9, 2025. Hosted in the Green Merchant’s Building, this family-friendly event promises a weekend full of activities celebrating the great outdoors.
Doors open Saturday from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. and Sunday from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. Admission is just $5, with all proceeds benefiting Advocates for Families.
This year’s showcase is packed with interactive exhibits, vendor displays, and exciting demonstrations:
Outback Ray’s Amazing Animal Show: Don’t miss this crowd favorite on Sunday at 1:30 p.m., sponsored by Explore Ashland.
Cooking Demonstrations: Learn new outdoor recipes with demos held both days at noon.
Fishing and K-9 Demonstrations: Perfect for outdoor sports enthusiasts and dog lovers alike.
Kids’ Fishing Pond & Free Headlamps: The first 100 kids each day will receive a free headlamp courtesy of The Outdoor Channel.
Attendees can explore booths from popular vendors, including Fin Feather Fur, 7 Rivers Marine, Wells Travel, and Hotshots Shooting Center. Other highlights include Ultimate Veteran Adventures, a variety of food trailers, and the chance to adopt a pet from the Ashland County Dog Shelter.
“It’s a great opportunity for the whole family to experience the outdoors in a fun and engaging way,” said event organizer Sandy Burkholder.
For more information, email Sandy at sburkholder@agoc.com or visit the event page on Facebook at facebook.com/followArmstrong/events.
Come out, celebrate the outdoors, and support a great cause at the Antlers & Anglers Sportsman’s Showcase!
Jesse Santos Appears in Ashland County Court for Bond Hearing on Multiple Charges Including Kidnapping and Child Endangerment
February 25, 2025 | Ashland, Ohio – In a high-profile case that has captured local attention, Jesse Santos, 59, appeared before Ashland County Common Pleas Court Magistrate Emily Bates this morning for a bond hearing via video conference. Santos faces multiple charges stemming from alleged incidents that occurred between September 17 and September 18, 2024.
According to the website of the Seventh-day Adventist Church, Jesse Santos is listed as a district pastor serving the Canton, Carrollton, Massillon Connections, and Wooster Seventh-day Adventist Churches. Neither Santos nor the church has issued an official public statement regarding the charges at this time. Church representatives have not responded to requests for comment.
Charges Detailed in Indictment
The indictment, filed by the Ashland County Grand Jury, outlines four charges against Santos:
Count One: Kidnapping (First-Degree Felony)
Santos is accused of forcibly removing or restraining the liberty of a minor, referred to in the indictment as M.T., for the purpose of engaging in sexual activity. The charge is heightened due to the victim being under the age of 18.
Count Two: Gross Sexual Imposition (Fourth-Degree Felony)
The indictment alleges Santos had sexual contact with M.T., compelling submission through force or threat.
Count Three: Sexual Imposition (Third-Degree Misdemeanor)
Prosecutors claim that Santos, significantly older than the victim, engaged in sexual contact with the minor, who was between 13 and 16 years old.
Count Four: Endangering Children (First-Degree Misdemeanor)
Authorities allege that Santos, in a position of responsibility over M.T., created a substantial risk to her health and safety by violating his duty of care.
During the hearing, Assistant Prosecuting Attorney Matthew Metcalf represented the State of Ohio, while Attorney Catherine Meehan stood as council for Santos. Santos waived the formal reading of the indictment and pleaded not guilty to all charges.
Magistrate Bates set bond at $250,000, with options for a surety bond, a bond secured by real estate, or a cash deposit. Conditions for release include:
Signing a personal recognizance agreement.
Remaining within Ohio unless granted written permission by the court.
Compliance with all state laws and court orders.
Immediate enrollment in a court-monitored drug and alcohol testing program upon release.
Abstaining from alcohol and all substances containing THC.
Passive GPS monitoring with a mandatory deposit and monthly fees totaling approximately $97.50.
A curfew from 10:00 p.m. to 6:00 a.m. at an approved residence.
No contact with the victim, her family, or any minors.
Santos must cover his GPS monitoring expenses, including an initial $250 deposit and monthly payments, to avoid bond revocation.
A status conference is scheduled for April 18, 2025, at 11:00 a.m. in Judge’s chambers. The jury trial is set to begin on May 20, 2025, at 8:30 a.m., unless resolved or postponed.
The allegations have shocked the local community particularly given Santos’s role in working closely with families and minors through his pastoral duties. Santos remains in custody at the Ashland County Jail, pending bond arrangements.
Ashland University Students Enter National Case Study Competition
PRSSA team develops advocacy campaign in support of public libraries
ASHLAND, Ohio—Four Ashland University students are taking part in the 2025 Public Relations Student Society of America’s (PRSSA) Bateman Case Study Competition. This semester, members of the Ashland University’s PRSSA chapter Mikayla Alcantar, Dana Krukovska, Katelyn Meeks and Maksym Polianskyi are developing a public relations campaign on behalf of EveryLibrary.
EveryLibrary is an advocacy organization dedicated to supporting public libraries nationwide. The Ashland University’s Bateman team seeks to strengthen and diversify EveryLibrary’s grassroots base by reaching out to rural communities like Ashland and college campuses like Ashland University. The team’s messages focus on the role public libraries play in small towns across the country, where the local library is more than just books. It provides free services such as technology access, job search assistance, tax preparation help, craft meetups and educational workshops for all ages. It documents and preserves the community’s history. It serves as a community’s gathering place.
“A library is more than just books. Of course, literature, movies, computers—we offer all of that. But a library is also a concept of a third space: We have our homes as one place, we have our work as another place and the third place is where you go without being charged but still participating in the community life,” said Sandra Hedlund Tunnell, the current president of the Ashland Public Library’s Board of Trustees. “That’s what a library is, a gathering community spot that doesn’t require anything from you besides your participation!”
The Bateman team is creating multimedia content and implementing strategies to engage the Ashland community and fellow Ashland University students in grassroots advocacy for public funding and access to libraries. Follow Ashland University’s Bateman campaign on Facebook: facebook.com/profile.php?id=61572923556563 and Instagram: instagram.com/aueverylibrary/.
Support the student PR campaign by filling out the form on the website: ashlandprssa.org/support.
Ohio State Highway Patrol, Ashland County Sheriff’s Office, Polk Fire Department & EMS, Sullivan EMS responded to a car versus Amish Buggy in the 500 block of State Route 89 last-night.
3 juveniles was riding in the buggy at the time of the crash, one 91-year-old male driving the car, both heading Northbound on State Route 89.
Minor injuries reported, no one was transported.
Minor injuries reported for the horse.
Drugs and or alcohol is not suspected.
Ashland County Sheriff’s Office investigating the crash.
Note: Flashing yellow light was in use at the time of the crash.
Joe Lyons •
March 5, 2025
