PERRY TOWNSHIP- On a clear night, you can see it from some points across the river: Tall strips of light standing out against a Lawrence County hillside.

The cross at Highland Memorial Garden is a landmark and, at times, a directional guide.

"I think we have at times given directions to people by that cross," said Ohio State Highway Patrol Lt. Carl Roark.

The patrol post sits on the edge of the cemetery.

"A lot of people, when we give directions to where we are, say, 'oh, you're near that cross.' About a year ago they did some work on it and it was noticeable that it was not there."

Roark said that part of Sand Road is a quiet place near the always busy U.S. 52.