🚧 Danger crossing

Good morning, Stark County. A staggering 89 crashes in just three years have earned the Route 62 and Harmont Avenue intersection the unwelcome distinction of being Canton's deadliest crossroad. While officials develop both short and long-term solutions to this traffic nightmare, the city is simultaneously pouring millions into revitalizing neighborhoods at a "tipping point." Vassar Park and the Sherrick Road area will see combined investments of over $2.6 million for streetscaping and sidewalk improvements—tangible signs of Mayor Sherer's commitment to community renewal.

As we approach St. Patrick's Day, there's a tastier way to explore the county that doesn't involve traffic hazards or construction zones. Stark County's unofficial sandwich trail offers corned beef delights worth seeking out, from Sunrise Cafe's thinly sliced perfection to Harmon's Pub's "perfect" Reuben. Who knew our local culinary landscape had so many savory treasures hiding in plain sight?

🌤 Sky Skoop

Canton

36°

71°

Massillon

36°

71°

Alliance

34°

70°

North Canton

36°

71°

Louisville

36°

71°

Canal Fulton

36°

71°

East Canton

36°

71°

Magnolia

36°

71°

Minerva

36°

71°

Navarre

36°

71°

☕️ What's Brewing Locally

🏙️ Canton invests millions to revitalize neighborhoods at "tipping point." Mayor Sherer's Neighborhood Plan has identified two priority areas—Vassar Park and Southeast Community Center—out of 16 localities citywide. Vassar Park will receive $1.4 million this year for streetscaping along 15th Street NW and sidewalk improvements through the city's 50/50 program, with another $1.2 million planned for next year. The Sherrick Road SE neighborhood will see similar upgrades. Ward 9 Councilman Frank Morris also plans to discuss potential updates to Schreiber Park with the Canton Parks and Recreation Department.

🚦 Canton's deadliest intersection claims 89 crashes in three years. The Route 62 and Harmont Avenue/Lesh Street NE intersection ranks fifth on Stark County's Most Hazardous Intersections list. Short-term plans include relocating Lesh Street and Commercial Road away from the main crossing point. Long-term, officials envision a traditional freeway interchange with Harmont bridging over Route 62, though this would require ODOT funding. One serious injury occurred at this dangerous junction, which saw increased accident rates in 2023.

🥪 Stark County's sandwich trail serves up savory corned beef delights. Food reporter Bev Shaffer sampled four local spots offering corned beef sandwiches and Reubens, just in time for St. Patrick's Day celebrations. Sunrise Cafe impressed with thinly sliced meat on grilled rye, while The College Inn offered house-cooked corned beef with addictive chips. Harmon's Pub's Reuben earned high praise as "perfect" with well-seasoned meat and the right amount of dressing. Nelson's Bar & Grill rounded out the tour with a value-priced option, though the sauerkraut somewhat overwhelmed the sandwich.

Upscale Plain Local upgraded home: Priced at $469,900, this custom-built home in Plain Local's Montabella Estates offers a spacious layout with upgrades including a stone fireplace, a primary suite with private bath, and a finished lower level for extra living space.

Spacious country home with updates: For $84,900, this newly updated home sits on over half an acre with two garages, featuring a large living room, formal dining room, updated kitchen, and two bedrooms with a full bathroom upstairs.

Prime Lots City Utilities Ready: This prime building location is listed at $325,000 with no HOA restrictions and city utilities already in place. Multiple lots available with discount pricing for buyers who purchase together.

🗓️ Happenings & Hoopla

🍀 Mar. 13 - St. Patrick's History & Legends: Discover the true tales behind St. Patrick's Day with Jim Knight at Stark Library's Lake Community Branch on March 13. Learn about Bishop Patrick's history and traditions that make this Irish holiday so beloved!

🎸 Mar. 13 - Jon R Garey Live: Soulful melodies await at Dragonfly Winery as Jon R Garey takes the stage on March 13. Unwind with fine wine and live music starting at 6:00 PM in charming Canal Fulton.

🏡 Mar. 14 - Stark County Home Show: Transform your living space at the 73rd Annual Stark County Home & Garden Show! Browse indoor displays at Canton's Center for Performance on April 19-20 - your one-stop inspiration destination for home improvement dreams.

🏎️ Mar. 14 - 12-Hour Canton Kart Battle: Rev your engines for the 12 Hours of Canton on March 14! Race for glory at K1 Speed in North Canton, with $7,000 in cash prizes and trophy podium finishes for the victorious karting competitors.

☘️ Mar. 14 - St. Patrick's Day Deals: Feeling lucky? Celebrate St. Patrick's Day all weekend at Gridiron Gastropub with special deals on Irish favorites! Stop by 2101 Hall Of Fame Way in Canton starting March 14 for festive food and fun.

🎵 Mar. 14 - Aaron Stanley Live: Sip and sway at Lost Trail Winery as Aaron Stanley performs live on March 14! Pair delicious wines with tasty bites from The Hungry Hiker food truck for a perfect evening in Canton.

🏆 Mar. 15 - Playing Field Destination Showcase: Step onto America's Playing Field at the Destination Showcase on March 15! Visit Canton partners with local organizations to highlight the best our region offers at 2409 19th St NW, Canton.

🏡 Mar. 15 - Indoor Spring Market: Discover unique treasures at 720 MKT INDOOR, popping up inside the Stark County Home & Garden Show! Browse handcrafted goods and specialty items on March 15 at 500 Market Ave S, Canton.

🙏 In Remembrance

Betty Jean Specogna

Betty Jean Specogna, 96, passed away peacefully on March 9, 2025, after a life dedicated to her faith as an active member of St. Joseph's Catholic Church in Massillon, OH. Born in Brewster, OH in 1928, Betty retired from Superior Meats in 1987 and spent her time connecting with people in homes and nursing facilities, bringing companionship and joy to those in need. She is survived by her daughter-in-law, granddaughters, great-grandson, great-great-grandsons, sister, and numerous nieces and nephews, while being preceded in death by her husband William and son William Jr. Private graveside services will be held at St. Joseph's Catholic Cemetery at a later date.

Robert W. "Willy" Shaw

Robert "Willy" W. Shaw, 65, formerly of North Canton, passed away on March 7, 2025, at Altercare of Hartville. Born in Canton in 1959, he was a Glen Oak High School graduate who worked as a diesel technician. Willy is survived by his mother Gladys and siblings Joann and Mark, while his father Robert and brother Joseph predeceased him. A graveside service will be held on March 11th at Mt. Peace Cemetery in Hartville.

Mary Lou Mansfield

Mary L Mansfield, 61, of New Philadelphia, passed away on March 8, 2025. Born in Dover on December 6, 1963, she was the daughter of the late Keith and Barbara Anslow of Roswell. Mary cherished time with her fiancé Travis Barker, her daughters Diamond and Autumn, her nephews, and her great nieces and nephews. She was preceded in death by her infant son Richard and her parents. A celebration of life will be held at a later date.

Jackie Dotson

Jackie C. "Jack" Dotson, Sr., a 91-year-old East Sparta resident, passed away on March 10, 2025. Born in 1933 in Parkersburg, WV, he graduated from Parkersburg High School in 1954 and worked at the Hoover Co. until his retirement in 1997. Jack was a member of Sanctuary Church of God in East Canton and enjoyed hunting and fishing during his lifetime. He was preceded in death by his wife Louise, son Jack Jr., and three siblings, and is survived by three daughters, one son, and numerous grandchildren and great-grandchildren.

Helen A Haught

Helen A. Haught, 98, of Canton, passed away on March 11, 2025, at Aultman Woodlawn. Born in West Virginia in 1926, she worked as a buyer and supervisor at Ben Franklin Stores for 25 years before retiring in 1994 and was a member of St. Paul's Episcopal Church. Helen was preceded in death by her husband John in 2011, her parents, two brothers, and two sisters. She is survived by her daughter Barbara Morrison and her granddaughter Michele McPherson with husband Michael.

Bobby Lee Stafford

Bobby Lee Stafford, 82, of Massillon, passed away on March 9, 2025, after a life marked by dedicated service to his community. A graduate of Wick Anderson High School in Mississippi, Bobby worked at Republic Steel for 30 years and was deeply involved with Friendship Baptist Church as a deacon and choir member. He served as president of the Massillon Branch of the NAACP for 20 years and was vice president of the Ohio State NAACP for many years. Bobby is survived by his wife Jessie, his children, numerous grandchildren, great-grandchildren, siblings, and other family members.

Carlos Slagle

Carlos E. Slagle, 60, of Canton, passed away on March 9th at Aultman Hospital. A veteran of the U.S. Army's 172nd Light Infantry Brigade, he is survived by his wife Debra of 43 years, two daughters, two sisters, two brothers, and seven grandchildren. He was preceded in death by his parents John and Kathryn Slagle, daughter Tabitha Evans, and sister Dawn Slagle. A memorial service will be held on March 20th at The Sanctuary Church Of God with calling hours at 5 PM and service at 6 PM.

Craig Edwin Neimanis

Craig Edwin Neimanis, 57, passed away on February 20, 2025, leaving behind his mother Judith, brother Kevin, and two children, Derek and Erika. Born in 1968 in Canton, he earned degrees from Mount Union College and worked as Assistant V.P. of Risk Management at Huntington Bank. Craig was an Eagle Scout, train enthusiast, fiction author, and devoted family man who was active in his church. A visitation will be held at Cassaday-Turkle-Christian Funeral Home on March 29th.