Coshocton native reflects on community ties and road to LCC

Donnie Allen is a Coshocton County native who grew up in West Lafayette. He attended Ridgewood Local Schools and graduated from Ridgewood High School in 1975.

While in high school, Allen enjoyed playing sports including football, wrestling and track. He enjoyed football so much he considered playing in college. However, because he made that decision late in the year, it was too late to apply for scholarships. A history teacher told him about Muskingum College, where he applied, was accepted and played football his freshman year.

He later returned home during winter break after realizing he missed the love of his life, Connie. The two married, and Allen worked for a few months in his father-in-law’s masonry business.

Allen then began work at Peabody Broken Arrow Mine, and he and Connie moved to Southeast Ohio. He was employed there for six years, working as an equipment operator, dozer operator and utility worker for the coal tipple. His favorite role was as a shooter, filling holes with explosives to prepare rock for removal by a dragline.

When the Broken Arrow Mine was idled indefinitely in 1981, Allen went to work for Crown City Mining in Gallia County. For five years he worked loading barges on the Ohio River.

“I was happy I got to do it, but I wouldn’t do it again,” he said.

He spent three days loading barges and two days filling in at the mine, doing whatever work was available. He most enjoyed working alongside an electrician, an experience that sparked his interest in the electrical side of mining. He later took electrical courses at the University of Rio Grande.

In August 1984 Allen and Connie welcomed their son Victor and moved back to Coshocton. Allen began working at Cyclops, later AK Steel, where he remained for 31 years. He held a variety of positions including roles in the mill, maintenance, the annealing and pickling line, the boiler room, and shipping. He said he liked working in the boiler room best.

After retiring, Allen worked for five years at his son’s business, Allen Construction and Excavating, where he drove truck and operated equipment. He said he enjoyed working with his son and spending time with him, calling Victor his pride and joy. He continues to help as needed.

As a young man, Allen also studied martial arts including judo, karate, kung fu and jujitsu. His interest in physical fitness continued into adulthood, when he joined the Columbus Weightlifting Club and competed in masters and open classes. He also is a member of the Coshocton Gun Club and looks forward to volunteering with organizations such as the Fellowship of Christian Athletes.

Allen first learned about Leadership Coshocton County by listening to Betsy Gosnell on WTNS Radio. His interest was sparked because he loves history and wanted to learn more. Kat Blust later encouraged him and Connie to apply.

He said he has enjoyed visiting new places and learning new things through the program. “My favorite thing about the class is the people and meeting them,” he said. “There are so many outstanding people in the class, and Betsy is outstanding.”

Allen said he has always loved Coshocton. “I couldn’t wait to get back from Gallipolis,” he said. “People know you here and what you’ve done. Coshocton has a lot going for it. The crime rate is low, and the cost of living is low. I like living here.”

To strengthen the county, Allen said more businesses and employment opportunities are needed, along with additional restaurants, shopping and activities for youth, particularly a center for those who do not participate in sports.

He said he would recommend LCC to others, especially younger people. “There’s a lot to learn, and you can’t help but be a better person,” he said. “It’s always good to learn new things. I’ve met some very interesting people, and the food has been great — I love the food.”