🐘 Naming the giants

Good morning, Stark County. After 14 years of standing guard without proper introductions, the massive concrete elephants outside Basil Asian Bistro finally have names! "Bing and Bong" emerged victorious from 850 submissions in the restaurant's naming contest, bringing personality to these immovable fixtures that, according to owner Tony Ly, "aren't going anywhere" due to their impressive size and weight. Winner Jennifer Jacobs walks away with a $250 gift card, commemorative plaque, and permanent bragging rights.

In financial developments across the county, Canton has secured a million-dollar settlement from Hercules apartment developers who fell behind on loan payments, making the city "whole" with $2.5 million in recovered funds. Meanwhile, Perry Township trustees are weighing whether to invest $70,000 in a new salt storage facility versus spending $40,000 to repair their existing corrosion-damaged structure—a decision Trustee Tony Ieropoli calls "a no-brainer" given the potential long-term benefits.

🌤 Sky Skoop

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☕️ What's Brewing Locally

🏙️ Canton settles lawsuit over luxury apartment loan dispute. The city will receive $1 million within 90 days from developers of the Hercules apartment complex, who had fallen behind on payments. Mayor Sherer confirmed the settlement will make the city whole, with total repayments reaching $2.5 million in principal and interest. The developers had signed personal guarantees for the $2 million loan made in 2017 for the 90-unit complex. The same council meeting also approved police supervisor raises and heard public complaints about a reinstated officer.

🐘 Two giant elephants finally have names after 14 years in Canton. Basil Asian Bistro in downtown Canton announced "Bing and Bong" as the winning names for their concrete elephant statues that guard the restaurant's entrance. The names, submitted by Jennifer Jacobs during the "Great Big Basil Elephant Naming Contest," were selected from 850 entries after a popular vote. The massive sculptures were craned into place 14 years ago and, according to owner Tony Ly, "based on their weight and size, they're not going anywhere." Jacobs will receive a $250 gift card, a commemorative plaque, and bragging rights for her winning submission.

🏗️ Perry Township debates $70,000 salt storage building replacement. Trustees are considering building a new salt storage facility with cement walls instead of repairing the existing corrosion-damaged structure for $40,000. Trustee Tony Ieropoli called the decision "a no-brainer," noting the old structure could still store gravel after demolition. The board plans to use extra paving funds and road department budget to cover costs. They also approved garage door replacements and discussed an upcoming police levy renewal, with the final decision scheduled for their June 9 meeting.

Investment Duplex Cash Flowing: This renovated duplex with a new kitchen and utilities is listed at $119,000, featuring one unit currently rented for $800 monthly and a vacant upstairs unit, with property frontage on two roads.

Renovator's dream on land: For $60,000, this fixer-upper bungalow sits on three lots totaling .34 acres, offering solid potential with a garage, carport, and storage space. Cash only, ideal for buyers with renovation vision.

Canton duplex needs TLC: This $73,000 Canton duplex offers investors a promising renovation opportunity in the growing West Park neighborhood, featuring two spacious 3-bedroom units with original architectural details in an area experiencing strong rental demand.

🗓️ Happenings & Hoopla

🛒 May. 14 - Community Grocery Distribution: Stock up on essentials at the Total Living Center's Grocery Distribution on May 14. Head to 2221 9th St SW in Canton to receive free groceries and connect with neighbors in need.

🌱 May 16 - Garden Club Plant Sale: Green thumbs unite at North Canton Garden Club's Perennial Plant Sale! Browse beautiful blooms at Stark State College (6200 Frank Ave NW) on May 16 and spruce up your garden for summer.

🏙️ May 17 - Canton Sponsors Appreciation: Join us for Canton, OH 2025 at the Alex D Krassas Event Center on May 17! This community-sponsored celebration promises a day of connection and fun in the heart of Canton. Don't miss it!

🌸 May 17 - Spring Festival Fun: Welcome spring's arrival at Spring Hill Historic Home's "Spring Fest!" on May 17. Enjoy vendors, live music, tasty treats, and family activities at this charming Underground Railroad site in Massillon.

🎭 May 17 - Jackson Heritage Festival: Celebrate diverse cultures at the Jackson Heritage & Culture Festival on May 17 at Jackson Memorial Middle School! This vibrant community event, created by innovative JMMS Stark Tank students, brings our community together through shared traditions.

🎣 May 17 - Westbrook Fishing Derby: Reel in excitement at the Fishing Derby 2025! Cast your line at Westbrook Veterans Memorial Park on May 17 for a morning of fishing fun and prizes. Parents welcome to assist little anglers.

🎭 May 17 - Jackson Heritage Festival: Celebrate heritage and diversity at the Jackson Heritage & Culture Festival on May 17 at Nash Family Jackson Amphitheater. This student-inspired community event brings cultural richness to Massillon's vibrant amphitheater setting.

💡 May 17 - Innovation Expo: Discover tomorrow's innovations today at the 2025 Innovation Expo! Join the Stark County Minority Business Association on Saturday, May 17 from 11AM-3PM at the Canton Regional Chamber of Commerce.

🙏 In Remembrance

Alice R Knotts

Alice R. Knotts, 69, of Massillon, passed away on May 10, 2025, after being born in the same city in 1955 to Robert and Ethel Ledger. Along with her late husband Ed, she owned and operated the Village Tavern for many years. Alice was known for her love of rescuing cats and her enjoyment of gardening. She is survived by her three sisters, mother-in-law, and several nieces and nephews, with funeral services scheduled for May 15 at Heitger Funeral Home-Massillon Chapel.

Kevone Antonio King-Johnson Jr.

Kevone Antonio King-Johnson Jr., born October 30, 2024, passed away unexpectedly on May 8, 2025, at just six months of age. He was known for his loving nature, beautiful smile, blue eyes, and his fondness for Winnie the Pooh. Kevone is survived by his parents, Billie Jo Ledger and Kevone King-Johnson Sr., five siblings, and numerous extended family members including grandmothers, aunts, uncles, and cousins. A visitation and funeral service will be held on May 15, 2025, at Paquelet Funeral Home.

Lucile R. Mazon

Lucille R. Mazon, a 100-year-old Massillon resident, passed away on May 9, 2025, at Meadow Wind Health Care Center. Born in Canton, OH in 1925, she was a McKinley High School graduate and member of Perry Christian Church who enjoyed crocheting, baking, cooking, and gardening. Lucille is survived by her daughter Cynthia, sister Rosemary, and numerous extended family members, while being predeceased by her husband Wheeler, daughter Linda, and siblings Nick and Lydia. A graveside service will be held on May 19, 2025, at Sunset Hills Burial Park, with memorial contributions suggested to any Humane Society or Animal Shelter.

Darlene S. Hahlen

Darlene Shirley (Hykes) Hahlen, 83, of East Canton, passed away peacefully on May 9, 2025, joining her husband Richard and other predeceased family members. She is survived by her son Scott, grandson Mathew, and granddaughter Megan. Known for her sociable nature and love of shopping, Darlene worked as a waitress at Country Manor Restaurant and product demonstrator at Fisher Foods. Visitation will be held on May 17 at Paquelet Funeral Home, with internment at Brookfield Cemetery in Massillon, Ohio.

Earl William McKimm

Earl William McKimm, age 82, passed away on May 10, 2025, in Louisville, OH. He was a 1960 Louisville High School graduate, Army veteran, and retired from the Timken Company after 41 years. Earl, known as "Big City," was an avid sports fan who attended high school state basketball tournaments for nearly 60 years and finally saw Louisville win a state championship this year. He is survived by his wife Joyce of 44 years, two daughters, four sisters, a grandson, and numerous other family members.

Mack E. Church

Mack E. Church, 95, of Canton, passed away on May 9, 2025, after a life that included service in the Korean War and careers in trucking as an owner-operator and instructor. Throughout his life, he maintained a passion for golf, lawn maintenance, and fishing, while deeply treasuring his family, including his five children, fifteen grandchildren, and seventeen great-grandchildren. Despite his wife Sarah Virginia's death in 1996, Mack remained devoted to her memory, never remarrying during the nearly 30 years after her passing. His funeral services will be held on May 16, 2025, at Reed Funeral Home CANTON Chapel with burial at Forest Hill Cemetery.

Kevin Scott Culberston

Kevin Scott Culberston, 62, of Canton, passed away on May 10th at his home surrounded by family. Born on April 14, 1963, he was preceded in death by his father Raymond, sister Kelly, and his grandparents Zupp. Kevin is survived by his mother Sharon, three daughters (Shannon, Ashley, and Lindsey), son Zackery, sister Kandi, thirteen grandchildren, niece Alicia, and other family members and friends. His children expressed that he will be "forever missed" until they meet again.