Home / Newsletters / Ohio / Stark County / April 4, 2025

🏙️ Border battles

Stark County • April 4, 2025

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Good morning, Stark County. The boundary between city and township lines became a legal battleground recently when a judge ruled against Tamra Hettinga's attempt to annex her Perry Township property into Salem. Judge Megan Bickerton determined that sharing just one border with the city wasn't enough, highlighting how something as seemingly simple as property lines can become surprisingly complex when utility services and emergency response territories come into play.

Meanwhile, young minds are getting a boost from Camp Invention's "Discover" program, where tomorrow's innovators are building claw machines and creating special effects through hands-on STEM activities. The timing feels particularly meaningful as the legal system works through its own discoveries—namely in the case of Myzaha Lucius, who walked free Tuesday after five months in jail when prosecutors unexpectedly dropped murder charges, though they've indicated the case may return to the grand jury after further evidence review.

🌤 Sky Skoop

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☕️ What's Brewing Locally

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🏠 Judge blocks Salem annexation in property boundary dispute. A Columbiana County judge has upheld commissioners' decision to deny Tamra Hettinga's request to annex her Perry Township property into Salem. Judge Megan Bickerton ruled that simply being adjacent to the city on one side wasn't sufficient, as the property is surrounded by township land on the other three sides. The judge cited potential confusion for emergency and utility services as a key factor in her decision. Hettinga had sought annexation to secure water and sewer services for a planned handicapped-accessible home on her Highland Avenue East parcel.

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🔬 Camp Invention sparks creativity through hands-on STEM adventures. The 2025 program, called "Discover," invites children to build claw machines, create special effects, and explore engineering concepts through engaging activities. Celebrating its 35th year, the National Inventors Hall of Fame program encourages innovation, problem-solving, and entrepreneurship for students entering kindergarten through sixth grade. Local educators facilitate the camps, which annually benefit more than 140,000 children across 2,600 schools nationwide. This year's curriculum features four themed modules inspired by world-changing inventors, helping young innovators build confidence while exploring science and technology.

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⚖️ Murder suspect walks free after five months behind bars. Myzaha Lucius, 31, was released Tuesday when Stark County prosecutors dropped charges against her. She had been accused of fatally shooting Stacy Armstead, 49, at a Canton house in January 2023. Prosecutor Kyle Stone indicated they plan to take the case back to the grand jury after reviewing evidence. Tuesday was originally scheduled to be Lucius's trial date before the unexpected dismissal.

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🏡 Real Estate Reveals

Remodeled bungalow modern updates: Priced at $254,900, this remodeled bungalow in Perry LSD offers three beds, extensive updates including new kitchen with granite countertops, renovated bathrooms, and a partially finished basement with extra living space.
Large forest retreat paradise: For $268,000, you can own this 4-bedroom, 2.5-bath split-level home in Veldon Estates with 2,500 sqft of living space, featuring a fireplace, updated kitchen, and private half-acre wooded lot in a quiet cul-de-sac.
Real estate listing image Private Cottage Near Lake: Lake Cable cottage-style gem priced at $425,000 features a first-floor master suite, open floor plan, and four-car garage, all nestled on a private wooded lot with lake privileges available through membership.

🗓️ Happenings & Hoopla

👩‍💼 Apr. 4 - Women in Business Summit: Empower your career at Stark County Women in Business on April 4 at Haymaker's Mill! This day-long event features inspiring panels and expert insights designed 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 on April 4 with fire performances, a propane dance floor, and the Inferno Circuit. Shop, dine, and explore galleries while enjoying the fiery entertainment.
🏴‍☠️ Apr. 04 - One Piece Constructed Tournament: Calling all One Piece fans! Battle it out at the One Piece Tournament on April 4 at 1314 Whipple Ave NW in Canton. Just $10 entry fee for this constructed format showdown.
🍳 Apr. 04 - Business Networking Breakfast: Kickstart your morning with like-minded professionals at Walther's Twin Tavern! Bring business cards and a friend to our bi-monthly Networking Breakfast on April 4th. Connections and coffee await at 430 Applegrove St NW.
🐰 Apr. 5 - Brunch with the Bunny: Hop over to Ninth Street Event Center on April 5 for Brunch with the Bunny! Enjoy face painting, twisted balloons, and a delicious meal with your family at this egg-citing spring celebration.
🗽 Apr. 5 - Canton Freedom Rally: Raise your voice for freedom at the Canton Hands Off Our Freedom Rally! Join fellow activists at North Park's amphitheater on April 5, then head to Fulton Road for a sign wave. Bring your own chair and signs.
🗽 Apr. 5 - Canton Freedom Rally: Stand up for freedom at the Canton Hands Off Our Freedom Rally! Join neighbors at North Park's amphitheater parking lot before heading to Fulton Road for a sign wave on April 5. Bring your chair and signs!
🌟 Apr. 5 - CMN Dance Marathon: Join Walsh University's Cavathon on April 5 and dance the night away for a great cause! Support Children's Miracle Network at this high-energy fundraiser on campus at 2020 E Maple St, North Canton.

💰 Financial Friday

Evaluate your monthly subscriptions to see which services you actually use and enjoy; canceling those that don’t add value can free up extra cash for your savings or investments.

🙏 In Remembrance

Mary Ellen Bryan

Mary Ellen Bryan, aged 89, passed away at her home in Sugarcreek on April 1, 2025. Born in Dover in 1935 to Glenn and Ruth Reed, she graduated from Sugarcreek-Shanesville High School in 1953 and worked at Shenango in Dover from 1964 until her retirement in 1988. She is survived by her daughter Jennifer, granddaughters Miranda and Megan, sister Janice, and extended family members. Following her wishes, cremation will take place with no formal services held.

Mary Ellen Bryan

Laura Lee Weisgarber

Laura Lee Weisgarber, 61, of Canton, passed away on April 1, 2025, at Aultman Hospital. A graduate of Jackson High School and The Ohio State University, she had a successful career with companies like Diebold and ICAN. Laura was actively involved in her community, serving as a Eucharistic Minister at Divine Mercy, Saint Mary's, as well as holding leadership positions in various organizations including Junior Achievement and the Institute of Management Accountants. She is survived by her father Robert, two brothers and their families, and was known for her love of family, friends, vacations, and boating on Lake Cable.

Laura Lee Weisgarber

Charles Edward Gutman

Charles Edward Gutman, 62, of Canton, passed away on April 1st, leaving behind his wife DeeDee and a blended family of children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren. Born in Long Island, New York in 1962, Charles was known for his kind and giving nature, his love of adventure, travel, and motorcycle riding. He was devoted to his faith and was remembered as an amazing father to both his biological and step children. Fittingly for someone described as a jokester, Charles passed away on April Fools Day.

Charles Edward Gutman

Randy Lee Fetters

Randy Lee Fetters, 66, passed away suddenly in his home on April 1, 2025, leaving behind his partner Kris Geyer, his mother Joy, three brothers, two nieces, many friends, and his pet Sammy. A visitation will be held on April 7 at Sanders Funeral Home in East Canton, Ohio, followed by a memorial luncheon at the Foltz Center. The family requests donations to local animal shelters in lieu of flowers, and condolences can be shared on the funeral home's website.

Randy Lee Fetters

Rickie Mayle

Rickie Mayle, 69, passed away unexpectedly on March 31, 2025, born to Jacob Mayle and Permelia Jones in Canton, Ohio. He was preceded in death by his longtime girlfriend Kris Kent, with whom he shared over 20 years. Rickie is survived by his three sons—Jason, Jeremy (with wife Stephanie), and Hunter—as well as five grandchildren: Anola, Navi, Braeden, Rhylee, and Damian. Instead of formal services, a private Celebration of Life will be held with family and close friends.

Rickie Mayle

James N. Nile

James N. Nile, 84, passed away on April 1, 2025, leaving behind his son Jeffery, daughter-in-law Maria, and grandson Jesus. Born in Alliance on August 2, 1940, to Homer and Betty Nile, he was a member of the Dante Club and Christopher Columbus who enjoyed golfing, fishing, hunting, and watching football. James was predeceased by his parents, brother Kenneth, and sister Mary Jane. A funeral service officiated by Fr. Frederick Schlueter will be held at Cassaday-Turkle-Christian Funeral Home on April 5th, followed by interment at Highland Memorial Park.

Tony R. Richards

Tony R. Richards, a 68-year-old lifelong Canton resident and former athlete, passed away on April 1, 2025. He had a successful career in computer programming at several companies before retiring from MAS after 16 years of service. Tony enjoyed gardening and hiking with his late wife Dee Dee, to whom he was married for 36 years, and also loved attending various events with his children and grandchildren. He is survived by his four children, five grandchildren, two brothers, and extended family, with calling hours scheduled for April 4 at Kreighbaum Sanders Funeral Home.

Tony R. Richards

Charles "Darren" Costello

Charles "Darren" Costello, age 59, passed away on March 28, 2025, after working 25 years at OBS where he combined his love for painting and cars. He enjoyed simple pleasures like country drives with his wife Deanne, to whom he was married for 28 years, and cherished his role as "Papa" to his grandchildren. Darren is survived by his wife, three children, five grandchildren, and numerous extended family members. A memorial service will be held on April 12, 2025, at Dueber Church in Canton, Ohio, with the family requesting donations to St. Jude Children's Research Hospital or Dueber Church in lieu of flowers.

Charles Darren Costello

Carol B. Denzer

Carol B. Denzer, 97, passed away on March 29, 2025, joining her late husband Virgil. Born in South Dakota in 1927, she worked various jobs including as a home health aide for dialysis patients and was a member of the American Legion Ladies Auxiliary. Carol enjoyed crafts like knitting and quilting, but valued family time most of all. She is survived by her daughters Rosa and Allyn, several grandchildren, and many great and great-great grandchildren, with her ashes to be interred alongside her husband at Fort Snelling National Cemetery.

Carol B. Denzer

Ervin Martin

Ervin Martin, born on May 13, 1962, in Pickinsville, Alabama, was affectionately known as "Scerve," "Magic man," and "the grill master." After serving in the Army from 1980 to 1983, he held various jobs until his retirement in 2001. Known for his love of laughter, fishing, music, and family gatherings, Ervin enjoyed being the life of the party as "D.J. Erv." He passed away on March 19, 2025, leaving behind his significant other, daughter, grandchildren, siblings, and extended family, with services to be held at Ohio Western Reserve National Cemetery with Full Military Honors.

Ervin Martin

Ann C. Grabowsky

Ann C. Grabowsky, 70, of Dublin, Ohio, passed away on March 7, 2025, after a life devoted to helping others through her work at the Insurance Department of the State of Georgia and volunteer efforts in theater. Beyond her career, Ann was known for her extraordinary memory, unwavering positivity, and resilience in facing health challenges. She found community at the Hilliard Community Senior Center and was cherished for her selfless nature and boundless love for family, children, and pets. Ann is survived by her four siblings and numerous nieces and nephews, with a private family memorial service held in her honor.

Ann C. Grabowsky
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