Maestra Cindy Sexton, Exec. Director, French Art Colony

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.

Maestra Jason Holdren, Gallia County Prosecutor

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.

Candidate Chris Nida, Branch Manager, Peoples Bank

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.

Maestra Teresa Ford, Attorney at Law

2024’s Maestra for a Moment TERESA FORD, a native of Gallipolis, graduated from Gallia Academy in 1981.  A French horn student of Rodney Tolliver’s and a piano student of her mother’s, the legendary teacher Marion Ford, Teresa pursued a career in music beginning at The Ohio State University under the tutelage of James Jones.  A ten year symphonic career followed upon her receipt of a Bachelor’s of Music Degree in French Horn Performance and a degree in law thereafter.  Teresa has been a practicing lawyer for 32 years, but has never lost her love of the arts, most specifically symphonic music.

Teresa’s mother, Marion, was instrumental in bringing the Ariel Theater to life.  A fifty year resident of Gallipolis, Mrs. Ford taught hundreds of piano students throughout her time in the French City.  Her fierce commitment to music education resulted in many arts initiatives in Gallia County including the touring Community Concerts series and the Ariel.  Her love of music was instilled in Teresa at an early age and she supported every musical endeavor that her head strong daughter wished to pursue (along with the horn, Teresa was a jazz singer for nearly 25 years; not exactly what her Julliard trained mother had in mind).  Teresa credits her mother’s talent, brilliance and unmatched intellect with the long and fulfilling musical career that Teresa enjoyed.

While Teresa studied conducting for one quarter with the renowned conductor Craig Kirchoff (she claims to have gotten an A, but as of press time this assertion cannot be confirmed), she doesn’t remember a thing about it! Her goal of being chosen as the Maestro for a Moment is to raise as much money as she can to support the Ariel Theater’s important and singular work in Gallia County.  It would make her mother proud and it would be one of the most important things she has ever accomplished in her careers as both a musician and an attorney. 

Candidate Russell Henchey, CFO Rivers Health

Russell Henchey, CPA, loves his community.  He’s a familiar face at various community events and functions where he’s on hand to help with raffles, golf outings, festivals, or sporting events where he volunteers when he isn’t working. Russell is Chief Financial Officer at Rivers Health.

If you’ve ever met Russell, you know he loves to have fun!  You may also notice that he doesn’t have a musical bone in his body.  His wife Jenny (who does have musical bones) is already working with him so he can be the best Maestro for a Moment The Ohio Valley Symphony and audience at the historic Ariel Opera House has ever seen!  (Well, at least since the last Maestro for a Moment competition).

What Russell lacks in rhythm, he makes up for in heart.  His fun loving nature is contagious, along with his generosity – which is why Russell is competing for donations to the OVS to receive the honor of being named the 2024 Maestro for a Moment.

Candidate Arun Sharma, Gallipolis Businessman

I’m Arun Sharma, and I’ve proudly called Gallipolis home for over a decade.  Throughout my life, I’ve had the pleasure of visiting the Ariel Opera House several times, each experience leaving me in awe of its presence and the magic it brings to our community.

From the first time I stepped into the beautifully restored building, I was captivated by its rich history and stunning architecture.  The moment I took my seat and the lights dimmed, I felt a palpable excitement in the air.  Whether it was a breathtaking orchestral concert by The Ohio Valley Symphony or an engaging theater production, each performance reminded me of the incredible talent we have right here in Gallipolis.

I may not have a formal background in music, but my appreciation for the arts has grown immensely through these visits.  The Ariel is more than just a venue; it’s a place where stories come to life, and the shared experience of live performance fosters a sense of community that is truly special.

I’m also happily married and have two young children.  Recently, my eldest started taking piano classes at the theater, which has been a wonderful way for our family to connect with the arts in a more personal way.  Watching them explore their creativity and develop a love for music fills me with joy.

When I’m not enjoying performances at the Ariel or supporting my children’s musical journey, I love exploring the beautiful trails around Gallipolis and trying new recipes in my kitchen.  The moments spent at the Ariel Opera House resonate deeply with me, inspiring my love for creativity and connection.  I’m grateful to have such a vibrant cultural gem in our town, one that continues to unite and inspire us all.

Candidate Jan Bergdoll, representing Pleasant Valley Hospital.

Jan is a community-favorite native of Gallipolis – and for good reason! Jan is known to those in both Mason and Gallia counties as the ultimate cheerleader and supporter of her husband coach Wayne Bergdoll, of their children and grandchildren, of athletes and their parents, of community friends, and of anyone who is lucky enough to cross her path and receive a “glittery hug”.

Through the years Jan has been a bright local example who shows first-hand how love and kindness can bring a community closer together. As the rock-steady support system for her husband, she has become one of the biggest cheerleaders for Pleasant Valley Hospital, as well. Obstetrician and gynecologist Fri Mofor-Eta, M.D., nominated Jan to represent Pleasant Valley Hospital in this season’s The Ohio Valley’s Symphony Maestro for a Moment fundraising campaign, which Jan gladly accepted – giving in yet another way that enriches the lives of those around her by supporting the music!

Candidate Matt Traywick, representing Traywick Financial Services.

Originally from Columbiana, Ohio, Matt decided to settle in Gallipolis, Ohio while passing through during a motorcycle trip. He stopped to rest, and while sitting on the swings overlooking the Ohio River was struck by the peaceful, relaxing river views. That day changed the course of his future, leading him to become a Gallia Co. resident and Managing Partner at Traywick Financial.

Matt holds a Bachelor of Science from Franklin University, and is also a graduate of both the Ohio State Patrol Academy and the WV State Police Academy. Before becoming a financial professional, he served his community as an Ohio State Trooper and a Parkersburg City Police Officer.

In his spare time Matt enjoys riding his motorcycle and he loves the outdoors. Matt dreams of making Gallipolis a better place for the future, and has a strong passion for helping all children succeed. Matt believes strongly in his faith. He enjoys spending time with his wife, and fellow Managing Partner, Jaime Traywick, and his children, Gabriella, age 2, Jackson, age 7, and Ava, age 10.

Candidate Ryan Yavorsky, representing Holzer Health Systems.

Ryan Yavorsky recently moved to Gallipolis from Athens, Ohio, where he is a third-year medical student at Ohio University. Now completing his residency at Holzer Health Care Systems, Ryan was pleased to learn of Gallipolis’s very own professional orchestra, The Ohio Valley Symphony, and was excited to attend his first OVS concert in September which featured violinist David Kim. Growing up in Youngstown, Ohio, he became passionate about music and learned to play the viola and bass along with other instruments. He looks forward to raising money to help grow this under-appreciated and great symphony!

In his free time, Ryan occasionally writes for a music blog, and he also enjoys both playing and watching soccer. Ryan received a degree in Cognitive Science from Case Western Reserve University in Cleveland, and has completed research in neurology both there and at Ohio University.