News roundup for Dec. 20

Medina High School December students of the month Medina High School seniors Hudson Karas and Jillian Ruppel were recognized as the Kiwanis December students of the month. Karas has been recognized as a commended student in the 2025 National Merit Scholarship program. His academic schedule includes advanced placement and honors courses, and he has earned the Medina High School academic distinction award, summa cum laude, during his freshman, sophomore and junior years. He is a member of the Medina Musical Bees, where he plays bass clarinet. He serves as both section leader and band secretary and performs with the symphony honors band. In addition, he is the pianist for Stardusters and a member of the Ohio Math League. Following graduation, Karas plans to continue his education in a STEM-related field. He is the son of David and Jessica Karas. Ruppel's academic schedule includes advanced placement and honors courses, and she has earned the Medina High School academic distinction award, summa cum laude, for her freshman, sophomore and junior years. She is an active member of the National Honor Society, Link Crew, HUDDLE, math league, Key Club and student council, where she has served as homecoming chairperson for the past two years. Outside of school, Ruppel works at Marshalls. She plans to attend college to study nursing or health science. She is the daughter of David Ruppel and Adrienne Ruppel. Medina direct support professional named Ohio 2025 Direct Support Professional of the Year The Medina County Board of Developmental Disabilities announced that Dashawn Davison has been awarded the 2025 Direct Support Professional of the Year by the Ohio Association of County Boards of DD. Davison has 12 years of experience, three as a volunteer and nine as a paid professional. He was chosen for consistently going above and beyond, planning ahead to ensure seamless care, collaborating closely with fellow providers and case managers and building a respectful, empowering partnership with those he serves. "The Medina County Board of (Developmental Disabilities) is proud that one of Medina's own has earned this honor," Board of Developmental Disabilities Superintendent Stacey Maleckar said. "It is truly a testament of the dedication and commitment of Medina County (direct support professionals) and the work they do every day to make sure people with developmental differences have the support they need." 'Santa at the Depot' Liverpool Historical Society's "Santa at the Depot" had nearly 100 kids stop by on Sunday. The kids left with a Christmas stocking stuffed with candy. Santa arrived at the depot in a wagon as part of the parade down Center Road. The event was part of Christmas in the Valley, which is sponsored by the Valley City Community Group.