Jillian Kyrou was 13 years old when she received an unexpected gift from her grandfather – a handcrafted violin. This wasn’t just any violin though; her grandfather made it himself. In his retirement, Kyrou’s grandfather had become an amateur luthier (a maker of stringed instruments), and used his newfound passion and skills to give his […]
Audrey Longstreth
Posted inLife and Culture
Young couple finds a peaceful date night option at the Ashland Symphony Orchestra
Austin and Aubrie Bigley have been together for four years. They will celebrate their third wedding anniversary later this month, and are the proud parents of a 2-year-old daughter Evelyn. Both work full time and are active in their local church. Needless to say, life is never slow for this young couple. Like many couples, […]
Posted inLife and Culture
Back by popular demand: Raemelton Oktoberfest set for Sept. 6 at Snow Trails
The Raemelton Therapeutic Equestrian Center is hosting their annual fall fundraiser on September 6. For this year’s event they are reviving the very popular Oktoberfest celebration from years past. The event will take place at Snow Trails from 5:30 pm until midnight. An authentic German dinner will kick off the evening at 5:30 pm with […]
Posted inLife and Culture
Quintessentially summer: Ashland Balloonfest carries through generations
Meet the Knowltons – Stephen, Kelly, Olive (7 ½), Georgia (5 ½) and Winifred (2 ½). “The halves are very important in our house,” laughed Stephen. The Knowltons are proud Ashlanders and absolutely love summertime in their town with the concerts in the park and other community activities throughout the summer months. However, in the […]
Posted inBusiness
A tale of firsts: How a local couple found more than a house with the Welcome Home Program
In February 2016, Alex Canfield was excitedly preparing the final stretch of planning for her upcoming wedding to her then-fiancé-now-husband, Alex Hickinbotham. (Yes, you read that correctly – they share the same first name and will be referred to as Mrs. and Mr. Alex respectively.) Like many soon-to-be newlyweds, the Hickinbothams had to figure out […]
Posted inLife and Culture
Growing up together: How MRCPL sparks new learning and ideas for all ages
As a mom with a two-year-old at home, Gretchen Jones was in search for affordable things to do with her daughter. “Affordable meaning free,” Jones clarifies. She found her solution at the Mansfield/Richland County Public Library (MRCPL). Now, a decade later and a family of 5, Jones says that between her and her husband they […]