May 27, 2020

Events have been put on hold due to the pandemic. We will update when the pandemic is over or restrictions are removed. Thank you.

February 17, 2019

The new year for ADDA is underway and we invite you join us for our first Meet n' Greet of 2019.  We have a lot of great projects and events coming up, to learn more join us for this evening of networking and updates. Your excitement and energy can help us make this the best year yet!  Meet n' Greet, Park Avenue Winery, February 26, 6:00-8:00 pm.

Thursday, January 10 & Monday, January 14, 5:30-7:30 pm

2019 is going to be a fabulous year for the ADDA!  We're excited to get started on completing our promotional lineup for the year. We have two back to back evening meetings on Thursday, Jan 10th and Monday, Jan 14th 5:30 pm to 7:30 pm. at the Park Ave. Winery.  Attending these important planning meetings will allow you to have a voice in the downtown 2019 events, PR campaigns and, promotions. 

We need fresh, creative, unique ideas!   More importantly, we need people ready to step up and help bring the plans to fruition.

Thrusday, November 15, 6:00-7:30 pm

Featuring Ashtabula's "Marshmallow World" Parade Costume and Ugly Sweater Contest!

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Join the Ashtabula County District Library and the Ashtabula Downtown Development Association for a fun and festive evening of crafts, hot chocolate and snacks as we gather together to vote for the best parade costumes and ugly sweaters!  The winners of the contest will be featured in Friday's "It's A Marshmallow World" Christmas Parade.

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Categories include:  Babies and Toddlers ages 0-4, Youth ages 5-12, Teens ages 13-17, Adult: Best Costume, Adult: Ugliest Sweater.  Join us outdoors for a special Pretty Peppy Pupper category to vote for your favorite Pooch Costume!

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To enter the contest, sign up at the ACDL Circulation Desk by 6:00 pm

Voting will commence at 6:30 and the winners will be announced at 7:30!

Saturday, October 13, 2018

The ADDA is seeking donations of new mittens, hats, and scarves.  We will be placing these items on a special Christmas Tree in Cornelius Park throughout the holiday season to help warm those in need. Items can be dropped off at Ultimate Appearance Salon by November 1, 2018.

September 21, 2018, 5:30 pm

The Ashtabula Downtown Development Assoc (ADDA) would be excited to have the participation of the community to help ignite the PEACE flame during the "International Day Of Peace" September 21st in South Park at the Peace Stone and Peace Pole.

On this day we wish to have Ashtabula County focus on Peace for the day and address the questions,  "What does the right to peace mean to me", " What can we do to start the peace process Ashtabula County"?  

Schools and organizations are encouraged to conduct peace-promoting projects in South Park throughout the day.

 The Peace Day program will begin at 5:30 pm with State Representative John Patterson, County Commissioner J.P. Ducro, and Ashtabula City Manager Jim Timonere speaking. In addition, we will have many other guest speakers, as well as, a couple of young adults and youth leaders and local musicians. The program should be an hour.

The theme of the 2018 International Day of Peace is " The Right to Peace- The Universal Declaration of Human Rights at 70"

http://www.un.org/en/events/peaceday/

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August 12, 2018

If you came to the August First Friday event you may have noticed the great new street banners adorning Downtown.  The banners feature several prominent icons of Downtown Ashtabula and each is sponsored by a local business.  We want to thank our sponsors for inviting everyone to "Meet Me On Main."

Friday, August 3, 2018, 3:00-8:00 pm

The Pet Parade and Got Talent contest is being held during the August Dog Days, First Friday Street Fest. Pets will congregate at North Park. The parade begins at 6:30 PM. The Got Talent contest (pets only) will be held after the parade in the gazebo followed by an awards ceremony.

Be sure to arrive well in advance of the 6:30 PM parade start time to be in the parade. Sign in at the ADDA table, receive an identifying number for your pet and take advantage of pet activities happening on Main Street. First Friday Dog Days Street Fest begins at 3 PM.

Pets may be any type as long as they are on a leash. Owners are responsible for their pet and the safety of others. You may dress your pet up to make them stand out. Judges will take all costumes, grooming, and behavior into consideration when considering awards. Come on down and have a fun time!

September 1, 2018, 3:00-8:00 pm

In its 3rd year, this is a wonderful event showcasing the many talented artists in our area.  The event will be held in the alley and the parking around Dublin Down.  Currently a "call for Artists" has been issued and sponsorships are available.  Visit the "Art in the Alley" page on this website for more details!

July 6, 2018, 3:00- 8:00 pm

Join us in Cornelius Park and on Main Ave, Downtown Ashtabula, from 3:00 pm to 8:00 pm on the first Friday of every month for an outdoor market and year round celebration!!  

First Friday, Schedule of Events:

In Search of Vendors, Exhibitors, and Entertainers!!

If you are interested in being a participant in the First Friday Events, please contact Shelley Lipps at 440-228-3952.

Saturday, July 7, 2018, 5:00- 8:00 pm

Join us at Framed on Main Gallery 4533 Main Avenue, Ashtabula Downtown for the “ Curious Case of Chris Raab” local artist. The event is open to the public and will take place Saturday, July 7, 2018 at 5 to 8p.m. Hors d’oeuvres and refreshments will be served. Come and meet the artist and enjoy the evening with the arts. Future events will take place every two months. This event is sponsored by Erie Bank in conjunction with Framed on Main.

Monday, July 9, 2018, 8:00 am

Welcome Heritage Ohio as they present this 60 minute session which will include:

   *20 minutes on National Register (How to Qualify)

   *20 minutes on 20% federal historic tax credit

   *20 minutes on 25% Ohio historic tax credit

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Ashtabula County District Library

June 1, 2018, 3:00-8:00 pm

Join us in Cornelius Park and on Main Ave, Downtown Ashtabula, from 3:00 pm to 8:00 pm on the first Friday of every month for an outdoor market and year round celebration!!  

First Friday, Schedule of Events:

In Search of Vendors, Exhibitors, and Entertainers!!

If you are interested in being a participant in the First Friday Events, please contact Shelley Lipps at 440-228-3952.

April 13 & 14, 2018

Grand Opening Open House for Headquarters Barber Shop and Happy Soles Shoe Service.  There will be refreshments and prizes!  Stop in and meet the owners- bring a new customer for a haircut and you'll get yours 1/2 off.

4904 Main Avenue- just south of the railroad tracks.

March 3, 2018

The ADDA held their Annual Meeting on Wednesday, February 28th at the Ashtabula County District Library.  Members, merchants, and the public received updates on accomplishments of ADDA in 2017 and plans for 2018.  The ADDA is charged with the restoration and revitalization of Main Avenue, activities undertaken include focus on the Streetscape including new banners, efforts to assist building owners to improve their investment, and becoming more involved in Heritage Ohio.*

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For more details, read our 2017 Annual Report.

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*Many thanks to Andover Bank, Port Conneaut Federal Credit Union, and Huffman-Mayer Wells Fargo Advisors for sponsoring our affiliate membership in Heritage Ohio. 

December 16, 2017

During the ADDA Christmas Party the ADDA 2017 Recognition Awards were presented.  Congratulations to our winners!  Thank you for supporting Downtown Ashtabula and the ADDA!

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The Outstanding New Member Award:  This award is given to an individual or business that has gone above & beyond to support the Ashtabula Downtown Development Association, in their first year of membership.

Doug Spencer, Spence Contracting, For making frames for the Art in the Alley pieces.  On such short notice.  Also, picking up and mounting the Christmas Trees.

The Downtown Image Award: Given to an individual who has helped with a project or projects that show physical improvements to the Downtown Area.

Meeghan Humphrey, Director of the Ashtabula Arts Center, for coordinating the mural project. The mural graces the side of the Ultimate Appearance building on Main Avenue.

The Promotions Award:  Given to an individual or group that has helped the organization receive more visibility through communication to its members and the community.

Carmen Kuula – For her dedication to keeping the ADDA website up to date.

November 10, 2017

Congratulations to Larry Fargo, Fargo Machine on his Community Outreach Award presented by the Greater Ashtabula Chamber of Commerce.  The award was presented at the Annual Meeting of the Chamber on Friday, November 10, 2017. Always ready to lend a hand, he has been supporting the ADDA in our efforts to revitalize Downtown Ashtabula.  Among Larry's projects are the refurbishing of the Topky Fountain in Cornelius Park, organizing activities for Art In The Alley, and recruiting new members for the ADDA.  Thank you, Larry, you have truly made a positive difference in our community!

Sunday, October 22, 2017, 2:00 pm

The Fine Arts Committee of St. Peter's Episcopal Church is sponsoring 'Andrew Sords and Friends'  The concert and 'Meet the Artists' reception are free and open to the public.  Come enjoy the music of Johannes Brahms and Antonin Dvorak. 

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4901 Main Avenue, Ashtabula, OH 44004

440-992-8100

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September 24, 2017

ADDA is pleased to announce the winner of the Public Art Competition is Chris Raab for his whirligig design of “Ashtabeautiful!”  The competition was part of the ADDA’s Civic Development Corporation grant, which was awarded for new planters, benches, and a public art competition.

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As Chris describes it…

“Ashtabeautiful will be a bit over 9 feet tall. It will be made of wood with lettering showing. It will essentially be a four sided box with light emitting from inside. The light will be powered by a solar panel. Inside the box, behind the letters, will be clear plexiglass to keep the weather out. The piece will have four facades with each façade displaying a word related to Ashtabula. On top of the piece, as the wind catchers, will be (depending on design): 4 or 8 aluminum prints. These prints will be pictures of our “Ashtabeautiful” City.

The new whirligig will make its debut on the Ashtabula City Hall lawn in the Spring of 2018.  See a "blueprint" of his design!

Wednesday, August 23, 2017, 6:00- 8:00 pm

Come and network with your fellow downtown merchants and organizations with our host Framed on Main with owner Chris DiGiacomo.  Also, provide input on the "Strong Foundations, Successful Futures" project designed to help identify ways to strengthen ties between the Community and the Ashtabula Area City Schools.

Thursday, June 29, 2017- 9:00 am

The Ashtabula Downtown Development Association (ADDA) is declaring the week of July 3 as CDC Appreciation Week to recognize the Ashtabula County Civic Development Corporation (CDC) for its commitment to Downtown Ashtabula.  This will be preceded by a dedication on Thursday morning, June 29th at 9:00 am.

When the ADDA created its Streetscape Plan several years ago, a top priority was replacement of aging, unattractive planters with new, self-watering, fiberglass planters. Another priority was to add more benches in the downtown area. These priorities coincided nicely with the CDC’s 2015 Placemaking Campaign: "Placemaking capitalizes on a local community's assets, inspiration, and potential, with the intention of creating public spaces that promote people's health, happiness, and well being."

Within a streetscape, street amenities help to create special pedestrian places, small plazas, and focal points – i.e. places where people can congregate and linger. ADDA President Josephine Misener commented, "It is my hope, with the addition of the new planters, flowers, benches, and whirligigs, we can create places downtown where people will want to come and spend time."

Wednesday, June 28, 2017, 6:00-8:00 pm

For our June Meet & Greet, come see Main Street's NEWEST business adventure!!!  Bring a friend and help us welcome The Main Escape to our Beautiful Downtown Ashtabula!!!!  Light refreshments will be served.  Come out on Wednesday the 28th to enjoy the company of fellow business owners, neighbors, friends and family.

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4211 Main Ave.

Ashtabula, OH  44004

Wednesday, April 26, 2017, 6:00- 8:00 pm

Join the ADDA as we welcome Richmond Transportation to our Main Avenue family on April 26th at our bi-monthly Meet & Greet.  Lisa and Jeff are opening their doors for us to visit their new location at 5456 Main Avenue to show us around, and see what they have to offer.

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Light refreshments will be served.

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Come out and enjoy the company of fellow business owners, neighbors, friends, and family.  Learn about the ADDA and hear about upcoming projects and plans.

April 7, 2017, Show starts at 8:00 pm

Martini's Restaurant, Lake Road West, Ashtabula.  SHOW TICKETS $25/person...Show Only- Cash Bar available.  Featuring nationally-touring comedian Mark Riccadonna with opening acts by Sean Lynch and our own local talent... Bill Hyland, Judge Albert Camplese, and James Mayer.

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Martini's is accepting dinner reservations in advance of the show at 964-2800.  The dinner is not included in the Downtown Laughs ticket price.  Reservations are required.

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Three ways to get your tickets...

February 19, 2017, 2:0 pm

All friends are welcome to attend the St. Peter Foundation Benefit Concert of Sacred and Secular Music in celebration of 200 years of ministry in the city of Ashtabula.  February 19, 1817- February 19, 2017.  The concert will take place at 2:00 pm on February 19th, St. Peter's Church, 4901 Main Avenue, Ashtabula. For more Information- 440-992-8100.

Friday, February 24, 2017, 6:00 PM

We welcome you to join us for our upcoming Meet n' Greet!  This event will be held at the Chalk Box, 5521 Main Avenue.  You can learn more about the ADDA, network and meet the members, find out about events and plans for the downtown area.  Come on out and make some new contacts and friends! 

November 10, 2016

The following new officers for 2017 were elected at the ADDA Membership Meeting held October 26th.  Congratulations and welcome to: Josephine Misener-President, Paul Brickman-Vice-President, Chrissy Speelman-Secretary, and Michelle Joslin-Treasurer.

September 26, 2016

On September 21, 2016 residents gathered at the Municipal Building to ask questions and receive updates from Jim Timonere, City Manager.  Many topics were discussed.  The event was sponsored by the ADDA.  Read the Star Beacon article for more details.

September 26, 2016

The Art In The Alley was a fabulous event for Downtown!  The many talented artists of Ashtabula highlighted some of their best works along the alley by Dublin Down during this great new Art Show held on September 3, 2016.  In addition to the art display and contest, the public had the opportunity to meet the artists personally, talk to them about their inspiration and techniques, and purchase their artwork.  As the entry fee for the show each artist donated one artwork that was auctioned to benefit the ADDA.  Read more details...

June 7, 2016

This new event is sponsored by the Ashtabula Downtown Development Association (ADDA) in partnership with O-Photo and is conceived for the purpose of promoting Ashtabula’s downtown corridor and area artists. We feel that Ashtabula has a treasure trove of talent deserving of exposure and support. As such, the ADDA intends to provide a venue for artists to sell their work, to increase pedestrian traffic and to highlight Main Avenue’s existing businesses as well as rental opportunities.

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The event will be held on September 3, 2016 from 3:00-10:00 pm.  Deadline for applications and pictures of your artwork is July 15, 2016.  More details...

March 21, 2016

During their regular Council Meeting on March 21, 2016 the Ashtabula City Council formally approved the ADDA Master Plan for Downtown Ashtabula.  This plan is a key component in palnning the future development of Downtown Ashtabula and will provide a basis for grant applications to be submitted by the City. 

Thursday, March 10, 2016, 6:30 pm

If you live, work, visit or play in the neighborhood surrounding downtown Ashtabula-- the My Neighborhood group is providing one more opportunity to give your input.  Come to the meeting and see what activities/projects they are proposing- and let them know what you would like to see.  Based on the outcome of the meeting, as well as the surveys they have collected, they will present to the City of Ashtabula what the group would like to have them apply for in the upcoming Neighborhood Revitalization grant.

The meeting will be held at St. Peter's Church, 4901 Main Avenue, Ashtabula.

Join My Neighborhood and take the next steps in improving the neighborhood.

December 29, 2015

ADDA members gathered to celebrate the holiday season and recognize several individuals and groups for their support and contributions to the ADDA and Downtown Ashtabula.  Trophies were presented to the winners of the Annual Christmas Tree Competition, as well as special awards to the Downtown Ashtabula Court, Larry Fargo, After School Discovery-Club 212, and the Richard S. Morrison Foundation.

The gathering started with lovely Christmas carols performed by the Downtown Ashtabula Court.  Many generous merchants provided fabulous prizes for the Silent Auction (monies raised benefit the ADDA) and the event featured an Ugly Sweater Contest.     More details...

November 12, 2015

The sights and sounds of the holiday season will come alive in Downtown Ashtabula during the Holiday Season Kick-Off starting at 5:00 pm on November 20th!  Join us before the parade for entertainment in Cornelius Park- including the Tree Lighting Ceremony.  Also stop and see Mrs. Claus.  Enjoy the parade- and then stay with us after the parade to check out entertainment and food and beverage specials at Downtown merchants!  More details.

September 25, 2015

Ashtabula City will be applying for a Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) in 2016 and ADDA is seeking input from the public for the application.  The grant would be used to fund portions of the proposed Main Avenue Streetscape Plan.  The public is invited to the fall membership meeting to be held on Wednesday, September 30th from 6:00-8:00 pm at Park Avenue Winery, 4316 Park Avenue, to help identify the target area and the specific project that would be funded by the grant.  View the Streetscape Plan.

September 21, 2015,

On this special day, make a visit to the Peace Stone in South Park, 4901 Main Avenue, Ashtabula.  The Stone serves as a symbol to promote peace within our community and our world. 

August 7, 2015

Thank you, Larry Fargo of Fargo Machine Co for working to get this beautiful fountain flowing again.  The fountain was donated to the City of Ashtabula, by Mr. Topky and Larry is leading a group to work on restoring the fountain back to its original glory. It is so refreshing to both hear and see this historic feature come alive again in Lance Corporal Kevin Cornelius Park in the heart of Downtown Ashtabula!

If you would like to help with the effort- contact Larry Fargo at 440-997-2442.  And stay tuned for more details about this exciting project!

July 25 & 26, 2015

Nickel Plate Road 765, a 1944 steam locomotive, brought passengers on round-trip excursions July 25-26 from Youngstown to Ashtabula as part of Norfolk Southern’s 21st Century Steam Program.  The passengers stepped off the train in Downtown Ashtabula and were treated to a meal  by Casa Capelli in the restaurant or under tents in nearby South Park.  St. Peter's Church also hosted an exhibit of historic artifacts and highlighted the music of Phillip Bliss and the artistry of Merv Clary.  It was a great thrill seeing the Steam Engine roll in!

July 25, 2015

Ashtabula City and Local Officials, along with the ADDA, commemorated the placement of this gift.  The "Peace Stone" was presented to the City from the International  Center for Environmental Arts and the Children of Berea, Ohio during the MultiCultural Festival 2011.  The organization donated the Peace Stone to assist in the promotion of a sustainable global culture of peace and goodwill.

July 25, 2015

Ashtabula- “River of Many Fish!”  If you have driven down Main Avenue recently you have noticed a "river of fish" flowing down the street.  The effort was undertaken as a collaboration of the Ashtabula Downtown Development Association and the After School Discovery- Summer of Discovery program participants. Thank you Ralph Bacon, the After School Discovery kids, and Cheryl Longden for helping to beautify our downtown windowscape!  These murals flowed across the building windows on Main Avenue to greet the many out-of-town visitors and spectators of the Historic Steam Locomotive visit. 

June 24, 2015

Serenity Kincaid, Young Miss MultiCultural, presented a donation of $400 to the ADDA Executive Committee at their meeting on June 24th. The MutliCultural Court has been selling candy and graciously selected the ADDA Flower Fund as a recipient of their efforts. Thank you to the MultiCultural Court for helping to bring the beautiful flowers to Main Avenue!  They have been excellent representatives of our community for the past year and we commend them for their hard work and dedication.

June 16, 2015

We are so grateful to the CDC for selecting our Downtown Revitalization Project as part of their 2015 Campaign focused on "Placemaking."  CDC allocated $30,000 under their "Key Transit Areas" Placemaking focus to allow for streetscape furnishings, including benches and planters, and public art.  This funding will help to implement the Streetscape plan designed by McKnight and Co. in 2013, and will enhance the Downtown Ashtabula environment.

May 19, 2015

What a wonderful sight!  The ADDA Team placed the new flower pots along Main Avenue and they look great!!  Thanks to everyone for their support of our flower project and the beautification of Downtown Ashtabula! 

May 16, 2015

Many thanks to all who volunteered to "Take It To The Curb" and spruce up Main Avenue for the season!  With brooms, shovels, and rakes the group made the streets look great!  Just in time for the Memorial Holiday weekend!

April 4, 2015

Another great year in North Park for our Easter event! Altough a bit chilly, we had many children attend, play games, and meet the bunny! 

If your children took a photo with the Easter Bunny you can access them by visiting H.M. Photography here and entering the password easterbunny in the Easter Gallery.

Thank you to all our volunteers!!

#DoMoreOnMain

March 14, 2015

8th Annual Easter Extravaganza!

April 4, 2015

1:30- 3:00 pm

Lance Cpl. Kevin M. Cornelius Park

Visit with the Easter Bunny & play games! 

Volunteers needed!

March 8, 2015

Two nights to choose from...March 27 or March 28, 2015

An evening of local comedian talent at Casa Capelli Restaurant!

Featuring…

The returning CHAMPION: James Mayer
Gregg Leary
Tim Boothby
Rick Coblitz

Tickets are $30, and includes dinner and a show. Doors open at 6 pm.

For tickets, call Oscar Tomasio (440) 992-3700 at Casa Capelli Restaurant orpurchase online here.

Don't miss out- get your tickets now!

March 1, 2015

The Ashtabula Downtown Development Association (ADDA) is conducting a GoFundMe campaign to help fund planters filled with colorful flowers on Main Avenue. The flowers are part of the ADDA’s overall goal of beautifying the downtown area and will be displayed during warm weather months. The ADDA contributes its own funds to the flowers, but needs the community’s help to fully fund the program.

To donate to the project please visit our GoFundMe page here. 

January 17, 2015

The votes are in, and the winner is the Ashtabula County District Library!  Great job!  2nd Place- St. Peter's Episcopal Church 3rd Place- First United Methodist Church.  Thank you to all of the Christmas Tree sponsors for helping to brighten Downtown during the holiday season!

December 31, 2014

Congratulations to the following on their election as officers for 2015...

President- Jane Haines

Vice President- Open

Secretary- Carol Johnson

Treasurer- Mary Lou Howe

Many thanks to Lynda Annick, outgoing President, and Marty Cephas, outgoing Vice-President for their leadership and dedication over the past two years!

December 24, 2014

Ashtabula City Council officially accepted the donation of the Main Avenue clock by Bruce and Debra Anderson of Anderson Jewelers Monday, December 15th- ensuring that this city landmark remains in Downtown.  The historic black and gold clock stands tall at 4533 Main Ave. (outside the former Anderson Jewelers building).  After the first of the new year, a campaign will be started to raise money to refurbish the 111-year-old clock.  Ashtabula City will maintain it and, for now, the clock will stay where it is. 

November 29, 2014

Shopping small means big things for our community- please support our locally owned and operated Downtown businesses and establishments.

November 21, 2014

Come join us for the Enchanted Christmas celebration to kick-off the holiday season!  Starting with the Tree Lighting Ceremony and pre-parade entetrainment in Lance Cpl Cornelius Memorial Park, highlighted by the annual Christmas Parade, and followed by our second annual After-Parade festivities.

October 23, 2014

ADDA and My Neighborhood were privileged to join After School Discovery for an afternoon beautifying South Park.  Students raked leaves, cleaned flower beds, transplanted plants, painted park benches and began building attractive trash receptacles.  We thank this dedicated group of young people who worked hard to "Make A Difference" in their community.

September 12, 2014

During the ADDA Membership Meeting hiring of a new Administrative Director, Abbie Brockway, was unanimously approved.  Welcome Abbie! Many thanks to our previous Administrative Director, TIna Bihlajama for all of her hard work over the past year.  We wish her the best in her new endeavors.

August 2014

We have completed this important step in beautification of

Downtown Ashtabula!

Special THANK YOU to all of

City Council,City Manager Jim Timonere and

all of the other supporting staff from the

City of Ashtabula, for passing the

resolution of support for the

Main Avenue Streetscape project!! 

July 28, 2014

The 4th Annual Multi-Cultural Festival was a great success!  Lance Cpl Cornelius Memorial Park was a Cultural Sight, Sound & Taste Explosion!  The event was alive with an Ethnic parade, music, entertainment, foods, educational presentations, historical exhibits and vendors.