Home / Newsletters / Ohio / Stark County / April 2, 2025

🚧 Road maze ahead

Stark County • April 2, 2025

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Good morning, Stark County. Fasten your seatbelts for a major traffic shake-up starting Monday, as Cleveland Avenue closes at the I-77 overpass for a full two months. The closure marks the beginning of significant disruptions for Canton commuters, with a complex schedule of ramp closures and reopenings following in May. Detour signs will guide motorists through the maze, but savvy drivers might want to start plotting alternative routes now.

In a dramatic legal development, 31-year-old Myzaha Lucius walked free from Stark County Jail after prosecutors dropped murder charges in connection with Stacey Armstead's 2023 death. The dismissal comes with a caveat—the case could be refiled after further evidence evaluation. Meanwhile, the Pregnancy Support Network of Canton welcomes new leadership as Kayla Atchison steps into the CEO role, bringing her experience from Akron Pregnancy Services to the faith-based organization following her predecessor's December retirement announcement.

🌤 Sky Skoop

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☕️ What's Brewing Locally

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🚧 Cleveland Avenue closure will disrupt Canton traffic for two months. Starting Monday, the road will be closed at the I-77 overpass for 60 days, according to the city's Engineering Department. Detour signs will be posted to guide motorists through the area. The northbound on-ramp from Cleveland Avenue to I-77 north will remain open during the initial closure, but will close on May 5 when the southbound ramp reopens. Travelers from I-77 to Cleveland Avenue will be detoured to exit 101 at Faircrest Street.

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🔍 Murder charge dropped in fatal shooting case, woman released. Myzaha Lucius, 31, was freed from Stark County Jail after prosecutors requested dismissal of charges related to Stacey Armstead's 2023 death. The case involved a small-caliber handgun shooting where Armstead was found with a wound to her back. Prosecutor Kyle Stone indicated they plan to re-indict after further evaluating evidence and statements "to ensure justice prevails." The charges were dismissed without prejudice, meaning they could be refiled later.

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👶 Green native takes helm at faith-based pregnancy support network. Kayla Atchison has been appointed CEO of the Pregnancy Support Network of Canton, succeeding Kathy Atchison who announced her retirement in December. The network encompasses several organizations including Akron Pregnancy Services, where Atchison previously served as executive director. A University of Akron graduate, Atchison has been recognized as one of Greater Akron Chamber's "30 for the Future" and named a "Rising Star" by the Republican National Committee. Board Chair Lauren Henslee praised Atchison's "passion for the sanctity of life and spreading the Gospel of Jesus Christ."

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🏡 Real Estate Reveals

Real estate listing image Modern Luxury Under 400K: Priced at $399,900, this custom-built Jackson home features a welcoming foyer, spacious kitchen, vaulted sunroom, and three-car garage, with recent upgrades including a new roof and central air across its 3,900 square feet.
Real estate listing image Modern Brick Home Near Everything: For $189,900, this 3-bedroom brick home offers character with modern touches, featuring newly remodeled kitchen and bathrooms, a finished basement, updated roof, and a private fenced backyard near shopping and highways.
Real estate listing image Lakeside Paradise With Private Dock: Priced at $479,000, this Lake Cable ranch home offers panoramic water views, a hot tub on the wrap-around deck, a private dock, and updated amenities throughout in a convenient Jackson Township location.

🗓️ Happenings & Hoopla

🧠 Apr. 02 - Sporcle Trivia Night Challenge: Test your knowledge at New Berlin Brewing Company's Sporcle Trivia Night! Join the fun every Wednesday with round one kicking off at 7pm and round two following at 8pm. Bring your smartest friends!
🏳️‍🌈 Apr. 3 - Teen Support & Services: Discover a safe haven at Queer in Canton Community Center where youth ages 12-17 can access tutoring, support groups, and more in The Mayne Room on April 3. Located at 2663 Cleveland Ave NW.
🎉 Apr. 3 - Exciting Community Gathering: Raise a glass at Royal Docks Brewing Co. on April 3rd! Join the excitement at their Brewhouse + Cannery location in Massillon for a lively community gathering. Come celebrate with fellow beer enthusiasts!
👩‍💼 Apr. 4 - Women in Business Summit: Empower your career at Stark County Women in Business on April 4 at Haymaker's Mill in North Canton. This day-long event features inspiring panels and expert guidance for women at every professional stage.
🔥 Apr. 4 - Canton's First Friday Inferno: Feel the heat at Canton's First Friday! The Ohio Burn Unit lights up downtown April 4 with fiery performances, while you shop, dine, and explore local galleries. Don't miss this sizzling community celebration!
🍳 Apr. 04 - Business Networking Breakfast: Jump-start your business connections at Walther's Twin Tavern's Networking Breakfast! Bring business cards and a friend to mingle with local entrepreneurs every 1st and 3rd Friday, including April 4th at 430 Applegrove St NW.
🎸 Apr. 5 - Rye Valley Live @ George's: Groove to the soulful sounds of Rye Valley at George's Lounge Live Music Series! Join the downtown Canton tradition on April 5 at this beloved establishment that's been rocking since 1959.
💐 Apr. 5 - Ladies Luncheon: Celebrate spring in style at the Ladies Luncheon! Join fellow community members for an elegant afternoon at the William McKinley Memorial on April 5. Contact the front office at 330-455-7043 for remaining tickets.

🙏 In Remembrance

Leon Rysak

Leon Rysak, age 65, passed away on March 28, 2025, at his home in Canton, Ohio, surrounded by family. Born in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, Leon pursued education in Business Administration and Engineering, dedicating over 30 years to his career as an Electrical and Instrumentation Engineer. He was deeply committed to his Catholic faith, family, and community service through Lions Club International. Leon is survived by his wife Charity, six children, and three brothers, leaving behind a lasting legacy of warmth, generosity, and compassion.

Leon Rysak

Janet Louise Ianni

Janet Louise Ianni, 82, of Louisville, OH, passed away on March 29, 2025, after declining health. She was a 1960 graduate of Louisville High School and a 1963 graduate of the Aultman School of Nursing, working as an RN at Aultman Hospital for 38 years. Janet is survived by her two daughters, two step-daughters, sister, two grandchildren, and many nieces and nephews, having been preceded in death by her husband Guido, her parents, and three brothers. Known affectionately as Mimi, Janet was remembered for her charm, wit, and love for others.

Janet Louise Ianni

Thomas S. Racin

Thomas S. Racin, 76, passed away on March 15, 2025, after being born to Michael and Anna Racin on July 19, 1948. After graduating from Northwest High School in 1966, he spent 30 years working for Ohio Bell/AT&T while living primarily in Clinton and Canal Fulton. He was passionate about music and football, particularly following the Cleveland Browns and Ohio State Buckeyes. Tom is survived by his children, Amy and Troy, his grandson Nathaniel, his brother Steve, sister Debbie, sister-in-law Anne, and many nieces and nephews, while his parents, brother Jim, and brother-in-law Thomas Lavery preceded him in death.

Thomas S. Racin

Clifford E. Whipkey Jr.

Clifford E. Whipkey Jr., 86, of Massillon, passed away on March 28, 2025, after a life dedicated to his family and church. Born in Steubenville in 1939, he worked at Active Tire for 24 years, Hoover Company until 1994, and Walmart until his retirement in 2019. A U.S. Army veteran and member of Massillon Church of Christ, Clifford enjoyed traveling and racing go-karts in his youth. He is survived by his wife Betty, their children, grandchildren, great-grandchildren, and various other family members, with funeral services scheduled for April 7, 2025, at the Massillon Church of Christ.

Clifford E. Whipkey Jr.

Phillip Harris

Phillip Harris, 75, of Canton, passed away on March 25th at Mercy Medical Center. Born in 1950 to William and Velma Harris, Phil was a Vietnam veteran who worked at Winters Manufacturing for 27 years and enjoyed demolition derbies. He is survived by his daughter, two sons, brother, nine grandchildren, one great-grandchild, his dog Buddy, and other family members. A funeral service will be held on April 5th at Waltner-Simchak Funeral Home, with donations accepted in lieu of flowers.

Phillip Harris

Carolyn L. Wentz

Carolyn L. Wentz, born July 26, 1934, passed away on March 29, 2025, at age 90, joining her husband Robert. Born in Hayesville, NC to Paul and Minnie Ledford, she was the youngest of her siblings. She is survived by her daughters Vickie Lunsford and Paula Phillips, three grandchildren, three great-grandchildren, and ten great-great-grandchildren. A funeral service will be held on April 2, 2025, at Kreighbaum Sanders Funeral Home in Canton, OH, followed by burial at Sunset Hill Memory Gardens.

Carolyn L. Wentz

Kirby Miller

Kirby L. Miller, 76, of Walnut Creek, passed away on March 31, 2025, at his home. A Vietnam War Air Force veteran and 54-year American Legion member, Miller had owned Farmerstown General Store before working at Sugarcreek Heating and Cooling until retirement. He served as the longtime custodian of St. John's Church at Walnut Creek and its cemetery, and was active on the Walnut Creek Water Board. Miller is survived by his wife Ginny, two daughters, two grandchildren, three brothers, an aunt, and his cat Clippy, with memorial services scheduled for April 3 at St. John's Church.

Kirby Miller

Robert Hugh Park

Robert Hugh Park, known as "Mr. Hydraulics" for his engineering expertise, passed away on March 29, 2025, in Canton, Ohio at age 91. After serving in the U.S. Army from 1955-1957, Bob married Gale, with whom he shared 66 years of marriage and raised three daughters. His deep faith guided his life, leading him to serve in various church roles and author two books about his spiritual journey. Bob is survived by his wife, three daughters, nine grandchildren, nine great-grandchildren, and other family members, with memorial contributions directed to Forgiving Forward, an organization promoting Gospel-centric forgiveness.

Robert Hugh Park

Lois Irene Hanood

Lois Irene Hanood, born July 27, 1931, in Navarre, Ohio, passed away on March 28, 2025, joining her husband James who died in 1998, and her brother William. She leaves behind numerous nieces, nephews, and Godchildren whom she impacted positively throughout her life. A devout member of St. Joseph Catholic Church, Lois lived a life characterized by faith, grace, and strong values. Funeral services include visitation on April 2 at Lamiell Funeral Home followed by a Mass of Christian Burial on April 3 at St. Joseph Church, with interment at St. John Catholic Cemetery.

Lois Irene Hanood

Marcia Ann Moses

Marcia, born on October 3, 1947, in Canton, Ohio to Elmer and Marguerite Swartz, passed away leaving behind her husband Fred of 55 years, three children, eight grandchildren, and three great-grandchildren. She was an accomplished watercolor artist who published three books, taught classes nationwide, and enjoyed traveling, especially to Italy. Known for her exceptional kindness, Marcia loved cooking, home decorating, and most importantly, her family. Services will be held on April 3-4, 2025, at Lamiell Funeral Home and St. Joseph's Church in Canton.

Marcia Ann Moses
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