CCYL class visits public service facilities

On Nov. 19, Coshocton County Youth Leadership visited public service facilities within Coshocton, planned by Stephanie Hawkins and deputy Adam Parks.

The day started at the Coshocton Fire Department with Nic Carey and his crew. There, we learned about the ins and outs of the fire services and what it takes to be a fireman in Coshocton. After that, we toured the station and learned about some of the gear and equipment they use.

While at the fire department, we were visited by Sgt. Dave Stone and deputy Jeremy Johnson with their K9s, Rip and Joe. The handlers explained how much training the K9s receive and about the dogs themselves. We also had the privilege to watch the K9s in action while they searched for previously planted narcotics, and then they were set on someone with a bite sleeve.

The Coshocton County Probate Court was our next stop, where we were met by Judge Jason Given and Magistrate Lisa Christensen. Given explained to us what the point of the court was and what they do daily. Our group was then given a tour of the building and was even let into the holding cell.

Next, we got to take a ride in the sheriff’s MRAP vehicle, driven by Sgt. Troy Bricker, to the newly constructed sheriff’s office. We were given a tour of the new facility and got to see how the dispatch center operates. After that, CCYL was transported again in the MRAP vehicle to the Elks Lodge for lunch provided by the Kiwanis Club.

During lunch Addison Lahmers and Wade Thompson of Ridgewood gave presentations about their Pay It Forward projects from last year and the challenges they faced while doing them.

For our final stop, we walked to the Coshocton County Courthouse. There we spoke with Judge Robert Batchelor and Magistrate Christie Thornsley on the history of the courts in Coshocton and how they came to the positions they are in. The last thing we did was take a tour of the courthouse, and we were granted a view of the city from the bell tower.

Our group had a very eventful day and learned a lot about all the services that keep Coshocton running. If interested in learning more about Coshocton County Youth Leadership, email Executive Director Betsy Gosnell at lead@coshoctonfoundation.org.

This column was written by CCYL class member Wesson McPherson.