Home / Newsletters / Ohio / Stark County / April 10, 2025

💰 Budget blues

Stark County • April 10, 2025

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Good morning, Stark County. The financial rollercoaster has arrived at local schools as Ohio districts brace for potential funding cuts in Governor DeWine's proposed budget. While the statehouse debates a possible $103.4 million reduction affecting hundreds of districts, local schools like Fairless aren't waiting for resolution—they're already eliminating positions and cutting programs like middle school Spanish classes to prepare for the uncertainty ahead.

In other developments, the local economy faces a setback as Canadian aluminum producer Matalco announced the closure of its Plain Township facility, affecting 71 jobs come June. Meanwhile, Ward 1 residents will soon choose between two Democratic candidates—current appointee Darren Mayle and community advocate Errick Freeman—to fill the council seat left vacant by the late Greg Hawk. Both candidates share priorities of neighborhood safety and infrastructure improvements as they head toward the May primary.

🌤 Sky Skoop

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☕️ What's Brewing Locally

Brewing Locally Image

💰 Stark County schools brace for financial uncertainty in state funding battle. Ohio school districts are caught in a "roller coaster" as lawmakers debate Governor DeWine's proposed budget that could cut $103.4 million from hundreds of districts over two years. The Ohio House has introduced an alternative plan providing more aid to public schools, ensuring no district sees cuts. Meanwhile, districts like Fairless are already implementing cost-cutting measures, eliminating positions through attrition and cutting programs like middle school Spanish classes. School treasurers, teachers and parents argue lawmakers have broken promises to fund schools adequately, while Republicans defend their adjustments to help fast-growing districts.

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🏭 Canadian aluminum producer shutters Ohio plant, cutting 71 jobs. Matalco will close its Plain Township facility in June as part of a strategy to "optimize" its aluminum operations. The company has offered some employees positions at its five other U.S. plants in states including Indiana, Kentucky, and Wisconsin. Matalco cites "weaker market conditions" as the reason for closure, not tariffs. The company is providing 90 days' notice and will assist affected workers with relocations and job placement services.

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🗳️ Two Democrats vie for Canton's Ward 1 council seat. Darren Mayle and Errick Freeman are competing in the May primary to replace longtime councilman Greg Hawk, who died in February. Both candidates have deep roots in the ward, with Mayle currently serving as the appointed replacement and Freeman bringing his perspective as an artist and community advocate. Neighborhood safety, housing improvements, and road repairs top both candidates' priority lists. The primary winner will face Republican Daniel Gates in November's general election.

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⚾ Baseball Scoreboard

Hoover Vikings brought the thunder to Canton on Tuesday, overwhelming GlenOak 14-2 in a lopsided Federal league showdown. The Golden Eagles saw their previously pristine 5-1 record take a hit as the Vikings flexed their offensive muscles in what can only be described as baseball's version of a Viking raid. Both teams will get a chance to run it back immediately with a rematch scheduled for Wednesday.

TeamOpponentScore
Hoover (4-2)
@ GlenOak
W 14-2
GlenOak (5-1)
vs Hoover
L 14-2

🏡 Real Estate Reveals

Real estate listing image Character Home Huge Garage Value: Priced at $320,000, this one-of-a-kind Jackson Schools property offers 2,200 square feet of character with two fireplaces, a spa-like owner's suite, finished basement, and a detached 4-car garage on a full acre.
Real estate listing image Lofty condo suited for everyone: This $219,900 condo boasts soaring ceilings, a first-floor primary suite, flexible bonus spaces including a loft, and a two-car garage, all wrapped in comfort and style for various lifestyle needs.
Real estate listing image Updated brick family sanctuary: Priced at $189,000, this inviting all-brick home on a half-acre lot features three bedrooms, an oversized garage, and recent updates including a new roof, fresh carpet, and updated fixtures.

🗓️ Happenings & Hoopla

🍷 Apr. 10 - Wine Tastings Return: Raise your glass! The Barrel Room's popular wine tastings return to North Canton on April 10. Sip and savor at 7901 Cleveland Ave NW—check their latest offerings before you go!
🎸 Apr. 10 - Hey Monea Live: Catch the dynamic duo Hey Monea at The Auricle on April 10! Dan and Nate Monea bring their signature vocals and wanderlust-inspired sound to Canton for an evening of captivating music at 201 Cleveland Ave NW.
🤪 Apr. 11 - Three Stooges Film Festival: Nyuk it up at Stooge Fest 2025! The Canton Palace Theatre presents four classic Three Stooges shorts—including a rare Shemp appearance—on Canton's largest screen on April 11.
🌸 Apr. 11 - SJA Spring Craft Show: Crafty treasures await at SJA School's Spring Craft Show! Browse local vendors at St. Joan of Arc Catholic School on April 11 from 10-3, with a special preview during Friday's Fish Fry from 5-7:30.
👑 Apr. 12 - Canton Prom Night: Dust off your dancing shoes for Canton Prom 2025 at Onesto Event Center on April 12! Twirl the night away while supporting the historic Canton Palace Theatre with your attendance.
🎪 Apr. 12 - Great Benjamins Circus: Step right up to The Great Benjamins Circus at Stark County Fairgrounds! Catch thrilling performances under the big top on April 12 at 4:30pm for an unforgettable family adventure in Canton.
🍻 Apr. 12 - Adult "Hoppy" Hour Hunt: Hop over to Oakwood Square for a spirited "Sip and Search" scavenger hunt on April 12! Enjoy drinks and adventure as The Mucci Team, Tolin Designs, and Plain Township partner with local merchants for this evening escapade.
🎻 Apr. 12 - Dixon's Violin Performance: Experience the mesmerizing sounds of Dixon's Violin at Canton's Cultural Center for the Arts on April 12. Catch this unique musical journey starting at 6:45 PM—tickets available now!

🙏 In Remembrance

Betty Marie Linhart

Betty Marie Linhart, 90, passed away on April 5, 2025, after a brief illness at Bethany Nursing Home in Canton, Ohio. Born in 1934, she graduated from Lehman High School and Aultman Hospital School of Nursing, and worked as a registered nurse in various medical settings including Aultman Hospital, where she taught parent classes. A devout Christian dedicated to her family, Betty enjoyed cooking, puzzles, birdwatching, and spending time with friends. She is survived by her four children, six grandchildren, one great-granddaughter, and numerous nieces and nephews, with funeral services scheduled for April 12, 2025, at Reed Funeral Home.

Betty Marie Linhart

Keith David Miller

Keith David Miller, age 58, of Canton, passed away unexpectedly on April 6, 2025, after suffering for years with Kleinfelters Syndrome and Fabrays Desease. Born in 1966, he served in the US Coast Guard and worked various jobs as a chef, welder, and mechanic throughout his life. A generous man who loved gardening, canning, baking, and his cats, Keith was a member of North Canton Church of Christ. He is survived by his wife Deborah, his biological mother Peggy Miller, and a brother, with a memorial service scheduled for Thursday at the North Canton Church of Christ.

Keith David Miller

Mark S. Breniser

Mark S. Breniser, 71, of Canton, passed away on April 7, 2025, after battling pancreatic cancer. A 1971 graduate of Canton South High School, Mark retired from V & S Schuler Engineering in 2011 due to a work injury. He was deeply involved in his children's activities, particularly as a Canton South Band Parent where he and his wife Debbie chaired multiple committees. Mark is survived by his wife of 50 years, his son Matthew, two granddaughters, and other family members. A service of remembrance will be held on April 12, 2025, at Kreighbaum-Sanders Funeral Home.

Mark S. Breniser

Debra Locker

Debra "Debbie" Jean Locker, 57, of Mineral City, OH, passed away on March 21, 2025, at Amberwood Manor. Born in Dover to Robert and Sandra McNutt, Debbie graduated from Tusky Valley High School in 1986 where she excelled as a head majorette and basketball player. She worked at Dairy Queen for 23 years and enjoyed cooking, bingo, darts, fishing, and animals, while also volunteering at various community organizations. Debbie is survived by her brothers Terry and Rick McNutt, with a celebration of life scheduled for May 22nd at the Mineral City American Legion.

Debra Locker

Joan Blanche Rohr

Joan B. Rohr, a 91-year-old resident of Canal Fulton for 68 years, passed away on April 7, 2025. She retired from Portage Electric after 20 years and was a member of SS Philip and James Catholic Church. Joan enjoyed puzzles, word searches, and was known for her cooking, especially her apple pies. She was preceded in death by her husband Joseph, nine siblings, and two grandchildren, but is survived by her six children, six grandchildren, two great-grandchildren, and many other family members. Per her wishes, she will be cremated with no services held.

Joan Blanche Rohr

Donald Eugene Begert

Donald E. Begert, 67, of Marshallville, passed away on April 6, 2025, after serving as a Masonry teacher for the Norton City School District for 25 years. Born on February 1, 1958, Don enjoyed gardening, outdoor activities, and spending time with loved ones. He was preceded in death by his parents, Glenn and Beverly Begert, his brother Randall, and sister MaryAnne. Don is survived by his two sons and their wives, his sister Nancy, girlfriend Paula, five grandchildren, one great-grandchild, and many friends.

Donald Eugene Begert

Deborah J. Donaldson

Deborah "Debbie" Donaldson of Alliance passed away on April 7, 2025, at age 75. Born to Herman and Hazel Moser in 1949, she was an Alliance High School graduate and longtime member of Alliance Friends Church and the Postscripts club. Debbie was known for her selfless love, faith, and nurturing spirit as a devoted wife, mother, and grandmother who created a Christ-centered home for her family. She was preceded in death by her husband Larry and her parents, and is survived by her three children, four grandchildren, brother, and extended family members. The family held a private ceremony and requests donations to Dysautonomia International in her memory.

Deborah J. Donaldson

Glenn Allen Grear

Glenn A. Grear, 96, of Massillon, passed away peacefully on April 7, 2025, with his daughters by his side. Born in Barnesville, Ohio in 1928, Glenn served in the U.S. Army and later retired from Superior Brand Meats. He was a devoted family man and active member of Faith Lutheran Church who enjoyed bowling and reading in his retirement. Glenn was predeceased by his wife of 62 years, Glenna, and is survived by his daughters, grandchildren, great-grandchildren, and brother.

Glenn Allen Grear

Laynard D. McCarty

Laynard "Mac" McCarty, 85, of Canton, passed away on April 3, 2025. A Navy veteran and retired pipe-fitter, he was known for creating nicknames and never forgetting a person or their story. McCarty enjoyed hunting, bowling, golfing, and was a lifelong VFW member. He is survived by his three daughters, two sisters, three grandchildren, and extended family, with memorial services scheduled for April 17-18, 2025.

Laynard D. McCarty

Melvin R. Lloyd

Melvin R. Lloyd passed away peacefully on April 5, 2025, at age 94, after a life dedicated to his late wife Carolyn, family, country, and community. A U.S. Navy veteran who later earned his Bachelor's Degree from Millikin University, Mel enjoyed a diverse professional career that culminated in founding Midwest Sign Company with his wife, which they operated for over three decades. He was passionate about travel, sports, and actively participated in fraternal organizations and community service. Mel is survived by his daughter, three grandsons, a great-grandson, and other family members, with a celebration of his life scheduled for April 11, 2025.

Melvin R. Lloyd

Helen R. Villella

Helen R. Villella, 57, passed away at home on April 5, 2025, leaving behind her companion Robert Villella Jr., her children Julianne and Robert III, and her brother Tim Conley. Born in Canton, Ohio to the late Paul and Martha Conley, Helen was preceded in death by her sister Jane Tomery. She worked as a bus assistant for special needs children and enjoyed sports, animals, and painting. Visitation will be held April 10 at Lamiell Funeral Home, with a Mass of Christian Burial on April 11 at St. Paul Catholic Parish followed by interment at North Canton Cemetery.

Helen R. Villella

Joyce (Jenkins) Gotch

Joyce Jenkins Gotch, born January 10, 1928, in Flushing, Ohio, worked in banking for 35 years before retiring from Central Trust Company in 1990. A 1946 Washington High School graduate, she was active in several organizations including Christ Lutheran Church and the Massillon Senior Citizens. Joyce enjoyed watching game shows, classic movies, and following the PGA Tour and Cleveland Browns. She was preceded in death by her husband of 55 years, John W. Gotch, and is survived by her children, grandchildren, great-grandchildren, great-great-grandchildren, and siblings.

Joyce (Jenkins) Gotch

Diane Elaine Paul

Diane Elaine (Chaney) Paul, born July 14, 1948, in Canton, OH, passed away peacefully on April 8, 2025, at Aultman Compassionate Care. She worked as a special education teacher's assistant for Canton City public schools and enjoyed spending time with her family, especially her grandchildren, as well as activities at Leesville Lake. Diane was preceded in death by her parents, brother Steve, son Joseph, and three grandchildren. She leaves behind her brothers, four children, thirteen grandchildren, and a total of 26 grand/great-grand/great-great-grandchildren, with no services planned per her wishes.

Diane Elaine Paul
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