Maestro for a Moment FUN-draiser 2025

Cynthia (Cindy) Sexton, a native of Gallia County, effectively converted her creative passion into a prosperous career. As a thriving business owner for over four decades, she acquired an impressive array of credentials, including a PHD in the Helix haircutting system, a master’s degree in hair coloring , and an American and International board certification as a hair color specialist. Sexton also showcased her expertise as a performing hair color artist for Redken 5th Avenue, sharing her knowledge with salon professionals across the nation.

With a proven track record of dedication, performing in numerous plays, serving as a volunteer for the French Art Colony for over 20 years and as board chair for six years, Sexton’s appointment as Executive Director for the French Art Colony three years ago was a natural progression. Her unwavering ethics and genuine zeal for the arts made her an exceptional fit for the FAC, where she can harmoniously combine her fervor and profession once again. Sexton has headed fund raising events, organized physical improvements projects, scheduled exhibits and much more.

Sexton served on many boards through the years and enjoys giving back to her community. She was the MC for the Prom Fashion Show at the Ariel Opera House and has been a volunteer usher for numerous events. She served on the Gallipolis River Recreation Festival Queen Pageant committee, chairperson of the Emancipation and Bicentennial Queen pageants, traveled the tri-state area judging pageants, was a former Rotary member and is an active member of the Fellowship of Faith Church. In her free time, she enjoys riding Harley motorcycles with her husband and playing Texas Hold’em. She and her husband Richard have two married daughters and one granddaughter who loves the arts as much as her grandmother. She is pursuing a degree in musical theater and volunteers at the FAC. Grace could be the one to watch in the future as Maestro for the Moment.

Jason Holdren is the Prosecuting Attorney for Gallia County, Ohio. Holdren was elected in 2016 and took office in January of 2017. Holdren was reelected in 2020 and again in 2024. As prosecuting attorney, Holdren has worked closely with local law enforcement to combat the drug epidemic by holding traffickers accountable and providing rehabilitation options to those addicted. Holdren serves on the Ohio Prosecuting Attorneys Association Legislative and Executive Committees, Ohio Attorney General’s Advisory Committee on Victim Services funding, Gallia County Community Improvement Corporation, and the Ariel Board of Directors as Vice President. Additionally, Holdren is an active member of the Gallia County HOPE Coalition and serves as a community mentor for local high school students. Holdren prioritizes working closely with local youth and school officials, always striving to support and strengthen the future of Gallia County.

Prior to being elected, Holdren served as an assistant prosecuting attorney in Gallia and Vinton Counties as well as maintaining a private law practice. He is a graduate of Ohio Valley Christian School and went on to earn his Bachelor’s degree in Criminal Justice from Marshall University. Holdren received his law degree from Thomas M. Cooley Law School and is admitted to practice law in Ohio and West Virginia.

When not serving the community, Holdren enjoys spending time with his wife and children on their family farm in Crown City. Holdren is truly honored and appreciative of the position that the people of Gallia County have entrusted him.

My name is Chris Nida. I am 39 years old, and I am the branch manager at the local Peoples Bank of Gallipolis Ohio. I was born and raised in Gallia County and have been with Peoples Bank for 7 years. I am a River Valley Raider and University of Rio Grande Red Storm Alumni.

I am happily married to Beth Nida and have been for 15 years. I am a father to 3 beautiful children: Ella, Titus, and Tucker. I am proud to be apart of this community and I look forward to being a part of the upcoming Ariel Opera House event. I would appreciate your donations to help the Ariel Opera House as well as my chances of being your favorite maestro for one night.