Todd Herberghs founded the Downtown Canton Partnership a few years ago because he wanted to have a greater impact on his community the 46-year-old is the executive director of the organization and is making a difference in numerous ways Herberghs graduated from the University of Florida with a bachelor’s degree in 1999 and law degree in 2003 he wanted to see results from his work that would make a difference “My first job out of law school was in Fort Myers and I quickly realized that being a lawyer was not for me," he said He describes leaving the city in Florida where he spent most of his young life as risky but he decided he wanted to pursue other career interests in a different location He now lives in the Historic Ridgewood neighborhood in Canton and over the past few years one of those career interests was to help attract people to downtown Canton for business and entertainment The Downtown Canton Partnership is dedicated to fostering the growth and vibrancy of Downtown Canton through innovative programs and community support Our mission is to develop and promote a diverse and thriving downtown environment that attracts residents Downtown Canton Partnership envisions Downtown Canton as a dynamic hub of activity and culture where people from all walks of life come together to live the Downtown Canton Partnership strives to bring people to downtown Canton which benefits not just downtown but the region How does the Downtown Canton Partnership help attract more people to visit shop and eat in the downtown area?One of the biggest ways to get people to come downtown is by having events we host several smaller events throughout the year such as Restaurant Week and Gallery Crawls the first annual Downtown Mimosa Crawl was held the Mural Fest was held in collaboration with the city Downtown Canton Partnership gives grants to other groups that want to hold events downtown as well we gave out more than $75,000 to other groups that held events downtown we can ensure that downtown is attractive for events that the events stay downtown year after year are successful and attract attendees who in turn patronize businesses downtown our businesses thrive … restaurants and bars are full Several smaller events that have been successful include the Downtown Mimosa Trail last year Vintage Canton and Palace Theatre’s Free Summer Movie Series pick up litter and remove weeds in the summer Downtown Canton Partnership also works diligently to recruit new businesses and we’ve begun a new rental assistance program for new and expanding businesses downtown What do you feel are the top three strengths of Canton including the downtown area?Affordability — prices are skyrocketing everywhere but Canton and the downtown are still some of the most affordable in the country.Innovation — Since things are becoming so expensive around the country it is difficult for a new entrepreneur to open a business or shop so people can still take a chance on a new idea here where it has become cost-prohibitive in other parts of the U.S.Community pride — I’m not originally from Canton and I did not go to high school or college here But I am amazed by the sense of community pride here but one thing people don’t realize is that this sense of community pride is not everywhere in the U.S It’s really spectacular and I hope everyone here realizes how special it is.Do you have someone or some event that has greatly impacted your life and how?Very early on in my adult life My first job out of law school was in Fort Myers I quickly realized that being a lawyer was not for me and instead I wanted to impact the community more I wanted to see tangible results from my work and I wanted to make a real impact which was where I had lived almost my entire life to that point I was able to create a different path for myself that has defined my professional career I hope to bring just a bit of that spirit and energy to my role at Downtown Canton Partnership is a Sunday feature that showcases a member of the Stark County community If you'd like to recommend someone to participate The remains of a 22-year-old Canton man were discovered May 2 at a homeless encampment in Cascade Valley according to the Summit County Medical Examiner's Office Akron police originally responded to reports of a fight in the 300 block of Silver Avenue at about 4:47 p.m While speaking with the two individuals involved at the scene one of the men informed officers about an earlier incident where he learned about human remains being found inside a trash bag Officers followed up on the information and located the remains in a trash bag in a fire pit and nearby area The remains have been identified as belonging to Xavier Menefee chief investigator of the Summit County Medical Examiner's Office Menefee was able to be identified through dental records Reporter Anthony Thompson can be reached at ajthompson@gannett.com Murray Family; other precious family members too numerous to mention; special friends Daley Family; other special friends too numerous to mention Interment will follow at Kingshill Cemetery The family asked that attendees wear any shade of green to honor Iris Your browser is out of date and potentially vulnerable to security risks.We recommend switching to one of the following browsers: Account processing issue - the email address may already exist Would you like to receive our daily news? Signup today Invalid password or account does not exist Submitting this form below will send a message to your email with a link to change your password An email message containing instructions on how to reset your password has been sent to the email address listed on your account The Washington County Sheriff’s Office arrested a Canton man on drug charges and a kidnapping warrant Sheriff Mark Warden reported that a high-speed pursuit was initiated Thursday by deputies with assistance from the Marietta Police Department which resulted in the arrest of Jontaveis L a suspect with an active felony warrant for kidnapping and in the seizure of significant quantities of illegal drugs were on patrol on Interstate 77 northbound A gray four door vehicle was observed traveling at a high rate of speed and passing vehicles traveling in the same direction Peters proceeded southbound on I-77 and observed numerous traffic violations committed by the driver weaving in and out of traffic still appearing to be traveling at a high rate of speed A traffic stop was attempted at mile marker 2 southbound in the City of Marietta leading to a pursuit reaching speeds up to 100 mph with the suspect vehicle sideswiping a car on Acme Street and ultimately colliding head-on with a vehicle at the intersection of Greene and Acme streets Both occupants of the vehicle were transported for medical treatment by the Marietta City Fire Department fled on foot but was apprehended behind Holly Street after a brief pursuit A search of the scene revealed a white grocery bag containing digital scales a Glock 10mm handgun with an extended magazine was recovered from the vehicle by Patrolman McElroy of the Marietta Police Department Detectives read the passenger her Miranda Rights and during the interview she reported that Drake-Crockett expressed intent to flee during the traffic stop and ignored her repeated requests to stop and let her out of the vehicle Drake-Crockett was transported for medical treatment due to injuries he sustained in the crash trafficking in cocaine and possession of cocaine along with second-degree felony charges of possession of methamphetamine and trafficking in methamphetamine and a charge of fleeing and eluding The Marietta Water Department and Triton Construction will be connecting the new North Hills transmission line on .. | https://www.mariettatimes.com | 740-373-2121 NORTH CANTON – Eric Bornstine has been hired as treasurer of North Canton City Schools The Board of Education approved his appointment during a special meeting on Monday who serves as Hoover High School principal Walker will take over as the district's top leader upon the retirement of Superintendent Jeff Wendorf The hiring was announced in a news release Officials couldn't be reached for comment on Bornstine's contract or salary The board conducted an external and internal search for Walker's replacement with the help of the Stark County Educational Service Center and ESC Superintendent Joe Chaddock and implemented programs that strengthened academic performance and financial efficiency Bornstine also served as principal at Northwest High School and associate principal at Wooster High School "We are thrilled to have Eric transition into the role of treasurer," board President Jessica Stroia said in a prepared statement "Eric has consistently demonstrated an unwavering commitment to our students and dedication to educational excellence make him an outstanding choice to steward the district's resources We are excited to work alongside him in this new capacity." Bornstine has a treasurer's license and holds licenses as a superintendent principal and teacher in mathematics and chemistry He has earned several advanced degrees from Ashland University and the University of Akron "I am honored to continue serving the students and community of North Canton City Schools in this new role," Bornstine said in a prepared statement "I look forward to ensuring that our financial operations continue to support the high standards of achievement for which North Canton is known." and other attractions will draw thousands of visitors on Thursday for the Canton Flea Market’s 60th anniversary celebration which happens on the second Thursday of May and October each year began in 1965 as a humble street meet with just 15 vendors it’s one of the premier flea market attractions in the state “If you’ve never been there during the flea market Canton transforms into something you wouldn’t expect to be in our little town,” said Ace Henley film and media specialist for Canton Tourism We love to see people come out and support the arts handmade clothes and jewelry to unique home decor Henley says the market promises to have something for everyone More than 400 vendors will line Canton’s downtown square and surrounding streets to offer handcrafted art you won’t find anywhere else A cornucopia of food options will also beckon marketgoers with “anything your heart desires,” including traditional fair fare and an array of local tastes though some paid parking options will be available closer to the market Copyright 2025 SuperTalk Mississippi Media Subscribe to our newsletter to get our newest articles instantly SuperTalk Mississippi Media is Mississippi’s leader in news SuperTalk Mississippi Media covers every inch of the state DEDHAM, Mass. (WJAR) — A whirlwind of witnesses took the stand Monday in Karen Read's retrial on a second-degree murder charge in Norfolk Superior Court Some testified that they were at the Canton home just hours before John O'Keefe was found unresponsive outside the jury heard from a Canton police officer who was at the scene and processed evidence Canton firefighter-paramedic Katie McLaughlin shared what she said Read said as first responders were trying to save O'Keefe in 2022 I hit him.' There was a woman next to us who told her to calm down," McLaughlin testified A line of questioning about the Canton firefighter's connection to Caitlin Albert turned contentious Albert's parents owned the house where O'Keefe was found outside I don’t have a personal relationship with her," McLaughlin said The commonwealth alleges that Read hit her boyfriend with her SUV. The defendant's lawyers claim she was framed in police coverup A retired Canton police officer took the stand to explain how a leaf blower was used to process the snowy scene The method uncovered blood and a broken cocktail glass "I wasn't going to get a second chance at it It was either collect it or never have it," retired Lt The defense had questions about initial evidence collected in red Solo cups One homeowner's brother is a Canton police officer The department was later recused from the investigation "You've never seen an evidence log determining where that blood went and who's handling it between Jan 1," defense attorney Alan Jackson said "I have never seen an evidence log," Gallagher said A handful of witnesses who had been at 34 Fairview after midnight testified too Ryan Nagel testified that he saw Read's SUV close to the flagpole where O'Keefe was later found "There was woman in the driver's seat of the black SUV in front of me," Nagel said "You didn’t see anybody else in the SUV?" defense attorney David Yannetti asked Three witnesses testified they didn’t see O’Keefe enter the house Gallagher will be back on the stand Tuesday to answer more questions YouTube channel, and the NBC 10 Facebook page The Stark County area is in for a few storms in the first half of the week, according to the National Weather Service A hazardous weather outlook has been issued for the area due to potentially severe conditions today and tonight "There is a Marginal Risk (level 1 of 5) for severe weather today," the outlook reads "A few storms may produce strong wind gusts There's a chance of showers through Tuesday night Conditions should be favorable beginning Wednesday as clearer skies and temperatures in the 60s and 70s should carry through the rest of the week Here's what the weather is looking like this week in the Akron-Canton area: then a chance of showers and thunderstorms between 2 and 4 p.m. then showers likely and possibly a thunderstorm after 4 p.m Calm wind becoming east 5 to 7 mph in the afternoon Tonight: Showers and possibly a thunderstorm before 11 p.m. then a chance of showers and thunderstorms between 11 p.m then a slight chance of showers after 2 a.m West wind 5 to 7 mph becoming south after midnight New rainfall amounts between a quarter and half of an inch possible Tuesday: A chance of showers and thunderstorms then showers and possibly a thunderstorm after 1 p.m New rainfall amounts of less than a tenth of an inch except higher amounts possible in thunderstorms Tuesday night: Showers likely and possibly a thunderstorm before 8 p.m. New precipitation amounts between a tenth and quarter of an inch Canton's industrial and political history surrounds the house that serves as the home of Canton Woman's Club The Victorian Gothic house was built in 1867 by John Rex Bucher who was a business partner with John Danner Bucher and Lewis Gibbs also formed the Bucher & Gibbs Plow Company in 1864 And the home stood across the street from the house William McKinley used for his successful "Front Porch" presidential campaign of 1896 more than a century of the city's social and philanthropic history is also tied to the organization that has occupied the home since 1920 Canton Woman's Club will celebrate its 105th anniversary with a "Through the Decades" gala anniversary luncheon in June at the club's house at 822 Market Ave the civic-minded and philanthropic women of Canton joined forces to create the Canton Woman's Club as a central meeting place for their various women's organizations," explains promotional material for the event "The Club that endures now and the women who support it are testament to the power of dedication to that cause!" Canton Woman's Club was poised to celebrate its centennial in 2020 corporate publicity co-chair with Shelley Borden but the COVID-19 pandemic derailed that effort "We will be having a major 105th anniversary celebration luncheon on June 28th and we are hoping to have representatives from several of the original founding organizations in attendance," she said "The survival of the Canton Woman's Club has been nothing short of remarkable considering all the twists and turns of history and other situations that could have permanently upended us at any given time That such a jewel of Canton's former "Quality Hill" area is still in existence is due to the dedication of the club's members "It is a major focus for us to ensure that the building and its grounds reflect that era and still stand as a symbol of endurance where most other historic landmarks have gone the way of the wrecking ball." The organization's first yearbook published in 1920 was dedicated to Mrs a name appropriately containing all the primary vowels of the alphabet since she also attempted to include in her new organization members of all the women's clubs of Canton Barrick was the driving force behind everything," said Jeanne Freitag "She felt strongly that women in the community needed what she called 'a clubhouse,' a place where they could meet have meals and hold special events with women of other organizations." Barrick wished to bring members of the city's organizations – Ladies Chorus Farm Woman's Club and a teachers club were among them – together in a place where all the women "could engage with each other," Freitag explained "She invited the presidents of this variety of organizations to come together to discuss a common club," Freitag said noting that Barrick also enlisted the past president of the Washington and Cleveland women's clubs to speak to those attending the meeting at the Courtland Hotel on Feb "Not everyone was in favor; there were some groups that didn't participate," said Freitag who pointed out that those who participated were interested in working under a single banner and a limit of $1,000 was placed on individual shareholders who noted that membership was at 500 at the end of the club’s first year "When all was done they had sold stock amounting to $100,000." four months to a day following Barrick's initial Courtland Hotel gathering organizing members met to establish rules and adopt by-laws by which Canton Woman's Club would operate that had been vacant for years," said Freitag but the outside was not in good shape at all." The club purchased the structure for $43,000 Its exterior was changed from stucco to shingles as was the tower and the rear carriage house As work was done – "carpenters and plumbers had no mercy on Directors' Meetings," the history in the first yearbook notes – The Woman's Club met in rooms in First Trust & Savings Bank The first annual meeting in the clubhouse was in January 1921 sans everything." Once the clubhouse was "carpeted and curtained," it officially opened Feb on the anniversary of the first meeting at which the women founded the club "After the first year the ladies had a lot of events," said Freitag "At one time they also had a resale shop on McKinley Avenue One of their big goals was to have a philanthropic arm They helped organizations and gave back to the community noting that Canton Woman's Club has offered financial and volunteer help to such entities as Akron Children's Hospital each year we pick three or four things we can do in the community to help." Membership has held steady in recent years Women who join still buy stock – five shares at $1 each – and pay an initiation fee of $25 but are eligible to attend either schedule of programs Several annual events are open to the public The fundraising luncheon/tea takes on a different theme each year while the Hall of Fame Breakfast and Parade offers wake-up food at the clubhouse and reserved seats for the parade The club's Holiday Boutique is on the first Friday and Saturday of October with exhibitors selling gift and decor items A holiday open house is free to the public on the first Friday of December noted that the "Through the Decades" anniversary luncheon from 11 a.m June 28 will occur exactly 105 years after the date the club officially adopted its bylaws Barrick and she has given us a lot of information on her We're billing the luncheon as 'Come and meet Mrs Reservations by members are being taken first, with nonmembers allowed to make pre-paid reservations beginning May 23. Call 330-453-4802 or visit the club from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Monday through Friday; email CWCClubManager@gmail.com; or download a reservation form at www.cantonwomansclub.biz Freitag said she feels that Canton Woman's Club's contributions to the community have been "significant" in the areas of fellowship civic-mindedness and historic preservation of what she called the last surviving Victorian home on Market Avenue N from downtown Canton to 12th Street "The ladies feel very honored to be in this home," said Freitag "We're continually maintaining it and upgrading it so this house will be here a long time and to think of all the ladies who have come through here all the things they did for the community." Reach Gary at gary.brown.rep@gmail.com What: Canton Women’s Club’s Gala Through the Decades Luncheon Where: Canton Woman's Club at 822 Market Ave Details: An character actor will portray Mrs who spearheaded the creation of Canton Woman's Club in 1920 What: The Cubs of the North Canton Little League's Major League (11 and 12 year olds) up to bat against the Phillies Where: The city-owned Hoover Community Recreation Complex on East Maple Street contains eight baseball diamonds The story: North Canton was the first Little League created west of the Allegheny Mountains when it was chartered in 1948 The league played in the first-ever game in Ohio Casual observers may not realize "Little League" is not a generic term for youth baseball Little League is a specific worldwide organization founded in Williamsport in 1939 — it has 2 million participants around the globe Youth sports have changed through the years the growth of travel ball has contributed to the decline in the number of community Little Leagues the league began a travel ball program so that the two approaches could co-exist Travel players also play on one of the community league teams Giammarco wears a bulky lanyard of keys around his neck on game nights He heaped praise on all those who make the league function especially Tom Meder who "does everything." Giammarco touted the virtues of Little League which he said can be missing in other youth formats the stringent pitch count and rest day rules to protect young arms He pointed to a "Developing Major League People" sign on a fenced backstop "That's what this is all about," Giammarco said Reach Tim at 330-580-8333 or tim.botos@cantonrep.com.On X: @tbotosREP (This story has been updated with new information.) AKRON ‒ Skeletal remains found last week in an Akron homeless encampment were identified Monday as 22-year-old Xavier Menefee had disappeared more than nine months ago in Summit County Gary Guenther, chief investigator of the Summit County Medical Examiner's Office announced that a positive identification was made through dental records Menefee had been on Akron police's missing persons list for several months He was listed as missing since either July 31 or since Aug Authorities had been concerned about his mental health and the use of drugs Akron police had responded to reports of a fight in the 300 block of Silver Avenue in Cascade Valley at about 4:47 p.m One of the men there told officers that he learned someone had found human remains in a trash bag Officers said they found the trash bag and additional remains in a fire pit and nearby area The skeletal remains were transported to the Medical Examiner’s Office for an examination According to GlenOak Athletics' website Menefee played midfield for the GlenOak High School varsity lacrosse team during the 2018 to 2019 school year when he was a sophomore His LinkedIn profile indicated he was set to finish his studies at GlenOak in 2021 And that he worked as a funeral home assistant from June 2019 to August 2020 Messages seeking comment were left for Plain Local School District officials The investigation into his death is ongoing The Akron Beacon Journal contributed to this story If you or someone you know needs mental health resources and support text or chat with the 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline or visit 988lifeline.org for 24/7 access to free and confidential services And with Mother's Day less than two weeks ahead it's time to figure out how you can do that If your mom enjoys a good meal out in a restaurant whether it's a juicy burger from her favorite spot or a buffet fit for a queen Stark County restaurants are ready to help you say thank you with flavor accept this pro tip from a fellow mother: It’s perfectly acceptable to drop hints Circle your top picks on a page or send a not-so-subtle link to your kids Mother’s Day was established in 1914 in the United States who campaigned for a national day to honor mothers after her own died What began as a day for personal reflection and gratitude quickly became one of the biggest dining-out holidays of the year Mother's Day is the busiest day of the year for restaurants − a true testament to how much moms mean to us Fun fact: The carnation is the traditional flower of Mother's Day because they were Anna Jarvis’ mother's favorite bloom White carnations originally were worn to honor mothers who had died while colored ones would celebrate those still with us here are some of the special meals and experiences Stark County restaurants have planned Mother’s Day Smitty’s Steak & Ale47 Lincoln Way E in Massillon; 330-809-0494 Pricing is $36.99 for adults (with seniors and veterans 10% off); $19.99 for ages 4 to 10; and free for ages birth to 3 various food stations including a Hibachi-style omelet station Granite Grille at The Quarry Golf Club5650 Quarry Lake Drive SE in Canton; 330-488-3178 Mother’s Day Brunch Buffet will have two seatings Pricing is $35 for adults; $15 for ages 3 to 12; and free for ages birth to 2 Buffet includes food stations that include a roast beef carving station S in Canton; make reservations at 234-215-2122 or DoubleTreeEvents@crestlinehotels.com Mother’s Day Brunch will have seatings every 30 minutes from 10 a.m Pricing is $49 for adults; and $23 for those ages 4 to 12 Food options will include a breakfast station with breads sausage and french toast; an omelet station; salad/cold food station with salads and shrimp cocktail; carving station with turkey and roast beef; kids station with chicken fingers tater tots and sweet corn; and an entrée station with chicken potatoes au gratin and green bean almondine There also will be dessert and beverage stations Kozmo’s Grille37 First St Mother’s Day Grande Buffet will be open 11 a.m Pricing is $39 for adults; $37 for seniors ages 65 and older; and $16 for ages 6 to 10 to enjoy while you dine on a chef’s carving station with New York strip steak and roasted pork loin; omelet and waffle stations with breakfast meats and chicken tenders; clam chowder; chicken marsala; and Bay of Fundy salmon; sides including sweet potato casserole and mac ‘n cheese; and a complete cold salad selection featuring peel-and-eat shrimp and Kozmo’s corn cake The Howlin Bird123 S. Main St. in North Canton; reservations on website Mother’s Day Bubbles & Brunch Buffet will have seatings at 9 a.m. Pricing is $37 for adults; and $15 for ages 12 and younger Note that this is a special event available only at the North Canton location Mimosas in four flavors will be available for purchase by the glass 4715 Hills and Dales Road NW in Jackson Township; 234-215-2407 Mother’s Day special menu will have seatings from 11 a.m Special menu will include Club Prive signature salad steak benedict − with all benedicts served with herb roasted home fries − or chicken and waffles and choice of dessert from cheesecake with fresh berry topping or chocolate cake with chocolate sauce Open to the public: Club Prive The Desert Inn204 12th St Mother’s Day special hours are noon to 6 p.m Serving family-style meals with a Mediterranean flair Mother’s Day drink special will feature The Dirty Mother (a blend of brandy and Kahlua over crushed ice) Mother’s Day Luncheon will be served 11 a.m Pricing is $40 for adults; $20 for those ages 6 to 18; and free for ages 5 and younger Tea party luncheon will include chef’s assorted pastries with fresh fruit pork loin with red eye rub and chunky homestyle applesauce chef’s potatoes with roasted peppers and onions Chloe’s Diner112 First St and guests can enjoy the all-new menu that includes breakfast delights served all day chicken salad sandwich or western burger with a side of fried mushrooms or corn nuggets 4025 Hills and Dales Road NW in Plain Township; 330-493-0523 Samantha’s Grill & Ice Cream Parlor at Oakwood Square2644 Easton St All four of Heidi Kiefer's Samantha’s restaurants plan something extra special for Mother’s Day weekend A $10 Happy Mother’s Day voucher will go to each mother who dines there May 10 or May 11 The vouchers will be redeemable on the next visit to any of the four Samantha’s tell your server “I love my Mom!” when you place your order The vouchers will be redeemable at any of the four Samantha’s locations and will be valid through June 13 just in time to celebrate Dad with the same offer for Father’s Day weekend USA TODAY's 2025 Restaurant of the Year: Social at the Stone House makes the list 824 Lincoln Way E in Massillon; 330-809-0461 Winner of USA TODAY’s 2025 Restaurant of the Year Social at the Stone House will be open for Mother’s Day with a specially crafted menu to honor that special someone Entrée features will include blue crab-stuffed flounder Each entrée will be served with garlic parmesan mashed potatoes and roasted asparagus Don’t forget to treat her to the Mother’s Day drink feature – a berry best mom strawberry rose spritz NE in Canton; Limited reservations available by calling 330-497-1000 Mother’s Day hours for both spots will be serving from 11 a.m Both restaurants at Gervasi Vineyard feature its popular menu items in celebration of Mom Carryout optionsIf carryout is more to Mom’s liking you can order from a variety of special Mother’s Day menu options at the following: 5081 Fulton Drive NW in Jackson Township; 330-956-5860 3214 Lincoln Way E in Massillon; 330-418-2675 Food & Drink reporter for The Canton Repository can be reached at bshaffer@gannett.com or 330-580-8318 CANTON − A North Canton man is set to serve at least three years in prison for stealing at least $300,000 from a relative with dementia doesn't have to report to state prison until after the 5th District Court of Appeals has ruled on his appeal Visiting Judge James Kimbler ruled during a roughly 20-minute sentencing hearing Friday afternoon in Stark County Common Pleas Court The judge sentenced Owens to three to four and a half years in prison and ordered him to repay his great aunt at least $303,000 in restitution found Owens guilty of two first-degree felony counts of theft from a person in a protected class Owens resigned from his job as the division supervisor overseeing the Stark County Auditor's Weights and Measures Department Related: Former Stark County worker quits after conviction for stealing from elderly relative Arguments over Nick Owens' sentenceCounty prosecutors lobbied for a sentence of at least four years arguing that Owens has shown no remorse after he took advantage of his 96-year-old great aunt They contend Owens took $550,000 from 2020 to 2024 But if they gave every benefit of the doubt to Owens the number Kimbler chose to use in determining restitution Family members became suspicious of how Owens was managing his great aunt's finances under a power of attorney she had given him They filed a criminal complaint with North Canton police Owens' attorneys argued for no prison time They said their client has no criminal record and is not a threat to public safety And the theft had not resulted in his great aunt losing her daily nursing-home care because she still has substantial assets Owens said in a statement to the judge before he was sentenced "I understand the seriousness of this situation And I understand the responsibility I carry not just as a public servant I want the court to know that I will never risk being in this position like this ever again." Assistant Stark County Prosecutor Chelsea Small said she would have preferred sheriff's deputies had immediately taken Owens into custody Friday Three years was the minimum prison sentence Owens faced a maximum prison sentence of more than 20 years Related: Stark County worker accused of stealing $550K, two cars from great aunt The judge agreed to allow Owens to remain free on bond of $100,000 where he has to post at least $10,000 pending his appeal challenging his conviction Kimbler said he normally orders defendants heading to prison to be taken into custody immediately But he expressed concern that incarcerating Owens would complicate the civil suits filed against him by his great aunt's attorney and her trust Owens can continue to work in his new job as an apprentice meat cutter for $18 an hour Owens made a restitution payment of $110,000 Thursday have placed their North Canton home up for sale to pay the rest of the restitution 'Greedy thief'Small read to the judge letters signed by Nicholas Owens' brother Christopher Owens and their sister Jamie Sweeney Both of Nicholas Owen's siblings called for the judge to impose a prison sentence Christopher Owens wrote that Nicholas Owens was charged the two had had only one phone conversation and seen each other during the trial "Both interactions were filled with hate and anger towards me and (he expressed that) everyone had contributed to him being in this situation Nicholas cast blame on everyone else and never once indicated that he could have done something wrong Nor did he suggest that he would do anything to make it right or prove his innocence." "The betrayal of trust and calculated nature of this crime has deeply affected our entire family It is heartbreaking to know that someone would take advantage of a vulnerable elderly woman for personal gain Nicholas not only stole money but also took advantage of her weakened mental state leaving emotional and financial scars that can never be fully repaired a fair and appropriate jail sentence will send us a clear message that exploitation of the elderly will not be tolerated." Small told the judge that "Nicholas Owens is a greedy thief who (has placed) the blame on everyone else except himself He took advantage of one our most vulnerable populations The elderly suffering from cognitive decline Small said Owens tried to conceal his theft by creating a joint bank account for him and his great aunt The great aunt listed other heirs and beneficiaries in her will besides him such as charities Small argued that Owens also stole from those charities And the prosecutor said Owens should have known better because he was a county official Owens' attorneys provided to the judge 60 letters attesting to his character by friends and family members Owens has no record," said his other attorney who argued that Owen's two siblings didn't have extensive contact with their great aunt This was not caused by a substance abuse problem She argued that while her client maintains his innocence he's deeply remorseful about his actions and wants the chance again to speak with his great aunt CANTON ‒ A 24-year-old is facing with felonious assault and other charges tied to the alleged malnourishment choking and beating of his 4-year-old stepdaughter The northwest Canton resident was being held Monday in the Stark County Jail after being arrested on Sunday The girl was admitted to Akron Children's Hospital on Thursday with extensive bruising to her body and head according to the complaint filed in Canton Municipal Court by a city police detective "The victim is also currently on a feeding tube due to malnourishment and she had lost approximately 20% of her body weight in the last 6 weeks," Detective Kevin Sedares wrote When she was admitted to the hospital, the girl was 2 feet tall and weighed 28 pounds. The average height for a 4-year-old girl is 3 feet, 5 inches, and weight, 40 pounds, according to online data posted by criticalbody.com The suspect is on felony probation for endangering children and was the main suspect in the abuse of his wife's 1-year-old son in 2023 In addition to the second-degree felony of felonious assault, the defendant is charged with endangering children, strangulation permitting child abuse and domestic violence His and his 26-year-old wife are scheduled to appear in municipal court on Tuesday when he will be arraigned and she will have a status conference She is accused of ignoring her husband's abuse of her daughter. The mother is charged with permitting child abuse and endangering children The stepfather was the girl's caretaker when her mother was at work The Repository is not naming the suspects to protect the identity of the victim Detective: Canton mom's indifference to 4-year-old girl's abuse 'shocks the conscience' Reach Nancy at 330-580-8382 or nancy.molnar@cantonrep.com CANTON ‒ A judge has issued a gag order in the case of two city police officers charged with reckless homicide in connection with the death of Frank E The ruling by Stark County Common Pleas Judge Kristin G Farmer applies to persons defined as participants in the case against Camden C Tyson, a 53-year-old Black man from Canton Township, died April 18, 2024 after a struggle with police inside the AMVETS building on Sherrick Road SE He'd entered the club after crashing a vehicle into a nearby utility pole One neighbor called 911 about the downed pole and crash and two more called 911 complaining about Tyson's erratic behavior inside the AMVETS seeking to have him removed from the private club Police got him onto the floor; one officer applied his knee to Tyson's upper back and neck area for about a minute as another police officer handcuffed him Tyson said several times that "I can't breathe." And then less than a minute after the officers handcuffed him The police officers left Tyson on the floor face down for nearly eight minutes before the officer who handcuffed Tyson realized he couldn't feel a pulse Burch and Schoenegge are each charged with reckless homicide a third-degree felony that carries a maximum penalty of three years in prison and a $10,000 fine The order prohibits the following people from making statements about the criminal case outside of court: Stone and his agents.The defendants and their agents.Any lawyer legal representative or law enforcement personnel associated with the case or any person who believes that he or she represents the defendants.Tyson's family or their agents.All law enforcement officers and their agents assignees or designees.All governmental agencies associated with any lawyers involved in the case.Any non-lawyer associated with or employed by any lawyer involved in the case.All witnesses or persons subpoenaed in the case.All persons who have attended any hearings outside the view of the public and media including victim representatives.Attorneys for any of the people already described.Any person who shares office space with any of the people already described.Farmer's full entry on extrajudicial statements was recorded April 9 She granted defense motions banning such comments on Jan Prosecutors did not respond to the motions and indicated at a Jan 10 pretrial hearing that they did not object to them The order covers defense attorneys Eugene O'Byrne and Jacob Will, shown in online court records as representing Burch, and Ty Graham and Donald Malarcik, representing Schoenegge. It also appears to cover Tyson family attorney, Bobby DiCello 'Frank is a victim of homicide': 2 Canton officers charged in Frank Tyson death Farmer wrote that defense motions seeking the gag orders included media coverage about the case and "what may best be described as 'inflammatory' statements made by participants without an order restricting extrajudicial statements there is a high liklihood that extrajudicial statements by such participants will continue as litigation progresses and will disrupt the process by which a fair trial may be preserved," she wrote such extrajudicial statements are reasonably likely to prejudice these proceedings and impact the ability to seat a jury." the judge set another pretrial conference for July 11 remain on paid administrative leave from the Canton Police Department They waived their right to a speedy trial on Friday CANTON – The city police officer fired in September for kicking a kneeling suspect in the chest has his job back Officer Brandon Momirov returned to work on April 11 after an arbitrator found the city did not meet the justification standards to fire him. The arbitrator reduced the discipline to a 30-day suspension and recommended Momirov undergo additional training “This is what due process looks like,” said attorney Mary Lou Sekula who represents the Canton Police Patrolmen’s Association “You have an impartial arbitrator chosen by consensus of the parties who heard all the facts and based on this arbitrator’s vast experience and knowledge “I think officer Momirov is a very fine officer with great past reviews and commendations and Canton is very fortunate to have him back.” Sherer II said he continues to stand by the decision of Safety Director Andrea Perry to fire Momirov but respects the arbitration process we are legally obligated to comply with the arbitrator’s ruling and will continue to uphold our responsibility to follow due process,” he said in a statement “Our focus will remain on serving our residents with integrity and transparency.” Firing and reinstatement of Canton officers rare over past decadeMomirov was the second police officer Perry has fired since she became safety director in 2013 She and Sekula both said the city and the police union previously had been able to come to an agreement to resolve issues that warranted officer discipline Perry said many times officers would resign in lieu of termination police union President Sean Flaherty testified that he could not recall any use-of-force violations that resulted in an officer being fired The police union has appealed Casto’s firing and is awaiting an arbitrator’s decision on whether the city’s discipline should be upheld Perry had fired Momirov after finding that he violated the department’s use-of-force rule on Aug 24 when the detective responded to reports of a fight near the Mahoning Manor public housing complex in northeast Canton It had been Momirov’s first day as part of the department’s Coordinated Response Team which specializes in preventing gang violence Videos from bystanders and Momirov’s body-worn camera show Momirov run up and kick a 21-year-old man who had been kneeling in the parking lot with another officer pointing a gun at him Arbitrator Vincent C. Longo said in his decision that he understands why Perry decided to fire Momirov He said Momirov did violate the department’s use-of-force rule and the city faced negative publicity and anger from residents damning and difficult to watch,” Longo wrote in his 21-page decision that was issued on April 11 But he agreed with the union that the firing was too severe and disproportionate Longo said factors that were not apparent from simply watching the video must be considered such as the chaos and danger that had been present at the scene He noted that responding officers had been told the opposing groups included known gang members who owned firearms and the confrontation was on the verge of becoming violent He said Momirov also was running to the scene after another officer called for help because he had five people at gunpoint who were not complying with his commands he heard another officer shouting at the individuals to get to the ground and saw that one of the four was still not lying on the ground Longo said it was “objectively reasonable” for Momirov to conclude that the kneeling suspect was not complying Special prosecutor: Charges on hold but possible against 2 fired Canton police officers Longo also emphasized Gabbard’s recommendation to the safety director that Momirov be suspended with his 27 years of policing experience and as Momirov’s supervisor was in a better position than the safety director who does not have a policing background and did not interview the officers involved to determine whether Momirov should have been fired or suspended As part of his decision to reduce the discipline to a 30-day suspension Longo said Gabbard has the discretion on whether Momirov will return to the Coordinated Response Team He also recommended additional de-escalation and use-of-force training for Momirov Perry said she will talk with the chief about Momirov's future duties within the department She said the amount of back pay owed to Momirov is being calculated Momirov acknowledged that his actions were wrong but said he believed at the time that force was necessary to gain compliance from the suspect A message sent to the suspect's attorney was not immediately returned Reach Canton Repository staff writer Kelli Weir at 330-580-8339 or kelli.weir@cantonrep.com If you're gearing up to celebrate Cinco de Mayo on Monday you probably should know what the holiday is all about Spoiler: May 5 is not Mexican Independence Day Cinco de Mayo commemorates the 1862 Battle of Puebla when a vastly outnumbered Mexican army pulled off a stunning victory over French forces during the Franco-Mexican War It was a symbolic win that boosted national pride and resistance While it's a relatively low-key affair in Mexico Cinco de Mayo has become a lively celebration of Mexican culture That tracks in a country that also spends May 5 celebrating National Hoagie Day and Totally Chipotle Day Let's not forget it's also World Laughter Day We Americans do love a good excuse to party sizzling fajitas or just a really good margarita these Stark County spots are ready to bring the fiesta on Monday with specials Agavero Bar and Grill2484 Lincoln Way E in Massillon; 330-481-4258 A festive bar and grill perfect for celebratory cocktails and hearty entrées fresh ingredients and modern takes on traditional fare; enjoy patio dining with your margarita Don Tequila4123 Tuscarawas St stay for the festive vibe and generous combo plates 330-493-9801; and 4048 Lincoln Way E in Perry Township affordable prices and reliable go-to dishes El Rincon3212 Tuscarawas St A relaxed place with a solid margarita menu and crowd-pleasing Tex-Mex selections 5685 Dressler Road NW in Jackson Township; 330-526-8370 colorful spot with a menu full of Mexican staples and friendly service Francisco's Cantina Restaurant6041 Whipple Ave A local favorite known for its vibrant atmosphere and classic Mexican dishes made from scratch Local craft dinners: Maize Valley celebrates 4794 Dressler Road NW in Jackson Township; 330-956-4363 family-run restaurant serving up authentic recipes and warm hospitality Generous portions derived from family recipes Even its margaritas are made using its own special recipe mix Variety restaurant: homestyle flavors, great prices With multiple locations and a loyal fan base it’s a go-to for classic dishes and fast service Victor's Taco Shop620 Lincoln Way E in Massillon; 330-481-4072 the newly opened Victor’s serves up everything from breakfast burritos to carne asada tacos Nathan Hieb has created the place he would have liked to study in during his undergraduate and medical student days Hieb, a trauma and critical care surgeon at Cleveland Clinic Mercy Hospital, opened The Mayflower tea and coffee shop at 1117 Wertz Ave NW in mid-February about a mile from the hospital His inspiration was a small tea shop in Des Moines that he and his friends would visit while he was at Creighton University in Omaha "You would just go out and sit in a place ― actually just like that in the corner there ― you'd sit around and nobody had any other distractions or things to do," he said "'And I always wanted to try to recreate that experience that I had for other people." Inside the unassuming building with a bright yellow door is a bar. But behind the bar are clear jars of tea leaves, sourced from Kentucky, and TVs playing Lofi Girl ― a YouTube channel that streams lo-fi hip hop music Lego flower arrangements decorate the bar and tabletops and tea is served hot or iced on bamboo coasters that fit the Japan-inspired aesthetic "I truly believe there is a market for this in Canton," Hieb said The 36-year-old has been in the medical field his entire career and works 12-hour shifts 18 days a month Starting the shop while working at the hospital has been stressful but it's considerably less of a high-stakes environment nobody has any catastrophic complications here," Hieb said I get to serve them tea and listen to exciting stories fixed a roof leak and installed a reverse osmosis water system since purchasing the building He said the previous owner had already made several interior updates he had two employees and a third starting soon the employees that I have right now are either in undergrad or recently graduated so they're helping to pull some of that crowd," Hieb said that is the market that I really want to pull this direction here." a Cleveland Clinic patient access representative said his coworker has created a unique place for students and it shows in every way when you visit the shop," he said in a prepared statement "It is a great spot to go study or enjoy a game of chess And there are few resources better if you have study questions than having access to a surgeon."  The Mayflower has hosted a poetry slam, and Hieb has talked with Alex Minturn of Alexander's Art House on Fourth Street NW about opportunities to showcase art in the space Reach Kelly at 330-580-8323 or kelly.byer@cantonrep.com CANTON ‒ A 26-year-old woman was arrested early Thursday accused of not protecting her 4-year-old daughter from serious injury caused by her husband's abuse of the child The woman from northwest Canton is charged with permitting child abuse and endangering children The girl was admitted to Akron Children's Hospital on Thursday Police found evidence that she had been choked A detective reported that bruises covered her forearms There was noticeable bruising on her forehead and jawline The detective wrote that a majority of her bones were protruding She vomited while being treated and seemed "very pale and unwell" and "extremely underweight," he wrote She is 2 feet tall and weighs 28 pounds. The average height for a 4-year-old girl is 3 feet, 5 inches, and weight, 40 pounds, according to online data posted by criticalbody.com "The defendant has a history of ignoring child abuse in the home as her husband is currently on felony probation for Endangering Children and was the main suspect in the abuse of her 1 year old son in 2023," Canton police Detective Kevin Sedares wrote in the criminal complaint filed in Canton Municipal Court "The injuries to the current victim are so egregious that it shocks the conscience of being able to not explain her lack of motherly instinct in protecting her child from the abuser." 'Tragic and shocking.' Canton woman gets prison term for starving baby to death The defendant is scheduled to appear in municipal court on Tuesday for a status hearing The police complaint said the woman's history of ignoring child abuse occurring in her home is documented in three Canton police cases Bad dad: Canton man sentenced for role 'absolutely horrific' death of baby who starved to death The Repository is not naming the mother to protect the identity of the victim The stepfather is to be charged but has not been booked yet That is expected to occur after he is released from a hospital Police were dispatched to the Akron hospital at 12:04 a.m The girl had originally been taken to Cleveland Clinic Mercy Hospital in Canton More: 'Absolutely horrific.' Canton detective describes home where baby starved to death The mother told the detective that her husband had not allowed her to be around the girl alone and that she had not been home much because she was working a lot His report says she took her daughter to the hospital because she wasn't eating dinner in the way she normally did She said the daughter had digestive issues that could make her sick The detective learned that the girl had been primarily wearing long sleeves and long pants The stepfather was her caretaker when her mother was at work The girl was placed in emergency custody with her grandmother The mother was required to leave the hospital while her daugher was being treated Stark County roundup: News from around the Canton regionCanton RepositoryLearn about foster parentingCANTON – Stark County Job & Family Services will have an information meeting from 6 to 7 p.m Tuesday at the Division of Children Services for those interested in learning more about being a foster parent A Zoom meeting will be held from 6 to 7 p.m Attendees can talk with a licensing specialist ask questions about the foster care and adoption process contact Jennifer Loomis at 330-451-8789 or Jennifer.Loomis@jfs.ohio.gov Becoming a foster and adoptive parent requires training and licensing through Stark County Job & Family Services and the Ohio Department of Job & Family Services Potential parents must be at least 18 years old provide proof of income to meet the needs of the household To learn more about foster care and adoption in Stark County ‘Wild Kratts Day' at museumCANTON – The McKinley Presidential Library & Museum's next Science Saturday will be from 11 a.m Visitors will participate in activities and crafts on wildlife that have been featured on the television show “Wild Kratts.” Camouflage an animal create a squirrel maze and check out the sensory insect bins Science Saturdays are included with paid admission to the museum EAST CANTON – The village will have a free spring cleanup May 17 bundled or boxed and set at curbside by 6 a.m Furniture and most appliances are acceptable Brush must be cut and bundled in four-foot lengths and weigh 50 pounds or less Brush that is not bundled will not be taken Empty paint cans or dried paint in cans with lids removed are acceptable flammable and toxic waste and any items that weigh more than 50 pounds Massillon Museum to host Lauren MascittiMASSILLON – The Massillon Museum’s first Rhythms concert of the year will feature singer/songwriter Lauren Mascitti on May 15 Buy tickets ($12 each or $10 per member) at MassillonMuseum.org/Tickets Membership will be verified at the door; memberships can be purchased at any time A cash bar will be available for attendees 21 and older Mascitti appeared on the 2020 season of “American Idol.” After earning a nursing degree She has co-written and/or performed with major country music stars and appeared on the Grand Ole Opry stage "God Made a Woman," was named to the New York Times and Saving Country Music’s “Best of 2020” lists Renters’ rights workshopMASSILLON – Fair Housing Summit & Stark Counties will present a free program about renters’ rights and responsibilities from 5:30 to 7:30 p.m Wednesday in the Massillon Public Library’s main auditorium Fair Housing will provide a packet for attendees to take home with additional resources and information Bring any questions you may have for an informal question-and-answer session For more information about this and other programs at the library call 330-832-9831 or visit www.massillonlibrary.org MASSILLON – The Massillon Museum’s History Discussion Group topic for 10 a.m to noon Tuesday will be “Best Recipes.” Bring recipe cards The History Discussion Group is free and open to the public Coffee and sweets will be available for a donation The group meets on the first Tuesday of every month to chat casually about a pre-announced topic usually a narrow segment of Massillon history visit massillonmuseum.org or call 330-833-4061 MASSILLON – Lions Lincoln Theatre, 156 Lincoln Way E, will present "Solitary Man - A Tribute to Neil Diamond" with vocalist and tribute artist David Jericko and The Crew from 7:30 to 9:15 p.m. May 15. For tickets (VIP $35; all others $25) or more information, visit www.lionslincolntheatre.org or call 330-481-9105 NORTH CANTON – The North Canton Public Library will present the virtual author talk "How to Use Anxiety to Thrive" with Dr Register for this virtual author talk here: https://libraryc.org/ncantonlibrary/74111 Stark Parks will host the following programs and activities The Stark Parks marinas at Sippo Lake Park and Walborn Reservoir open Saturday for the season the marinas will be open every day until Labor Day from 9 a.m Weekend hours will be available in September with the last day on Sept and motorized fishing boats (Walborn only) Snacks and beverages are also available for sale The Ohio Public Works Commission recently awarded funding for two conservation projects in Stark and Carroll counties The Stark County Park District received $626,818 for the Magnolia Mill The village of Carrollton received $141,558 for the Village Woods Park acquisition The Clean Ohio Green Space Conservation Program is dedicated to environmental conservation including acquisition of green space and the protection and enhancement of rivers and streams Twenty-eight conservation projects received grant awards Grant recipients agree to maintain the properties in perpetuity so they can persist for future generations Projects are vetted by the state’s 19 regional natural resource assistance councils Stark County voters will head to the polls Tuesday to decide on primary contests in Canton Massillon and Alliance and state and local issues Voters can cast ballots at their local precinct. Check the Stark County Board of Elections website to find your polling place Early voting in person at the Board of Elections Office at 3525 Regent Avenue NE in Canton concludes Sunday If you are returning an absentee ballot by mail it must be postmarked by Monday and received by the elections board no later than four days after the election If returning an absentee ballot in person to the drop box at the elections board office, it must be received by 7:30 p.m. Tuesday. A close family member or an assistant to a disabled voter may also drop off your ballot One statewide issue aims to increase funding for public works projects like roads The measure will appear on the ballot as Issue 2 and is a renewal of the state capital improvement program the measure would authorize the state to increase the cap on issuing general obligation bonds from $200 million per year to $250 million per year The money would fund grants to local governments for infrastructure projects More: Issue 2 on May ballot would help pay for roads, bridges - not Cleveland Browns stadium Voters across Stark County will decide on a 1.4-mill replacement levy for Children Services The previous levy for Children Services passed in 2019 and expires this year County officials said the levy is needed to cover care and placement of abused neglected and delinquent children in the county Child placement costs have gone up significantly in recent years The replacement levy would cost the owner of a $100,000 home $49 per year in taxes and would be billed on new home valuations assigned in the reappraisal last year It would generate $18,733,000 per year for the agency More: Stark County Children Services seeks replacement levy to cover child placement costs Also on the ballot are primary contests in Alliance The Louisville Public Library and Mohawk Valley Joint Fire District also have renewal levies on the ballot To view a sample ballot, visit the Stark County Board of Elections website and click "Show me my ballot" located in the top carousel Primary: 'I wish my successor the best.' Alliance Law Director Caitlyn Weyer drops out of primary Three precincts in Canal Fulton are moving locations due to the elimination of two previous polling locations will now vote at the Northwest Stark Senior Center previously assigned to the Northwest Stark Senior Center and Canal Fulton D previously assigned to Canal Fulton Christian Fellowship will both now vote at the SAM Veterans' Resource Center is moving from Zion Lutheran Church to Canton Baptist Temple Activity Center will move from Crosspoint United Methodist Church to St Three precincts in Lawrence Township have also changed previously assigned to the Northwest Stark Senior Center previously assigned to the Canal Fulton Christian Fellowship will now vote at the SAM Veterans' Resource Center More: Some Stark County polling locations are changing for the May 6 primary. See which ones Ohio law requires in person voters to present an unexpired photo ID An unexpired ID with a former address is acceptable as long as your current address is up-to-date in the pollbook Voters without a valid photo ID can cast a provisional ballot Reach Grace at 330-580-8364 or gspringer@gannett.com. Follow her on X @GraceSpringer16 CANTON ‒ Someone shot a 22-year-old man in the abdomen Tuesday evening at a house in the 1200 block of 18th Street NW Police were alerted after the victim went to Cleveland Clinic Mercy Hospital around 8:30 p.m Witnesses at a neighboring property told police they heard several muffled gunshots coming from the house One saw a man running from the residence with another man chasing him Police found blood leading to the home where the shooting occurred several bags of marijuana and drug paraphernalia Police: 2 men shot, injured at Canton house party The township of Canton is filing suit to recover hundreds of thousands of dollars that its former treasurer embezzled from taxpayers an amount that hobbled the township from keeping up on basic road repairs Also named in the suit against Peggy Sue VanDeKieft is her husband VanDeKieft Trucking and VanDeKieft Dirtwork/Trucking & Excavating Another defendant is State Line Insurance Agency Inc. a Canton business that was controlled by the VanDeKiefts is currently serving a prison sentence at the women’s prison in Pierre She was convicted of embezzlement last year and sentenced to 15 years in prison She is eligible for initial parole in March of next year according to Department of Corrections records Canton Township voters elected VanDeKieft as treasurer in 2005 VanDeKieft was also president of State Line Insurance her husband conducted work for the township through his trucking businesses The township contends the work was legitimate but VanDeKieft made nearly $310,000 in excess payments that had not been invoiced VanDeKieft was the “steward of all the township’s funds,” the complaint says When there wasn’t enough money to cover expenses in the township’s operating account Those loans cost the county $39,000 in interest VanDeKieft developed a way to divert township funds for personal gain while covering up the thefts She would write unauthorized checks to one of her businesses and then falsify the record in the township’s electronic account ledger to a different payee she issued it to herself and wrote “salary” on the memo line But she listed the check in the township’s electronic ledger as paying for “fuel.” More than $120,000 in checks were issued to VanDeKieft more than $80,000 was falsely recorded in the Canton electronic records during the period in which she was stealing money she wrote nearly $40,000 in payments to her insurance company even though the township did not have a business relationship with the companies Peggy deposited these 13 checks totaling $38,717.91 into bank accounts controlled by defendants and used these funds for their own personal gain and enjoyment,” the complaint says She also issued more than $354,000 in payments to other “straw” insurance companies that the township had not have business relationships with and another $85,000 in checks to businesses that had no relationship with the township Those monies were used by VanDeKieft for personal gain The complaint alleges that VanDeKieft disguised her thefts by telling the township board that records were incomplete or unavailable “Given Peggy's elected position of trust as township treasurer and her existing relationships with the township board as a fellow neighbor and community member the township board trusted Peggy,” the complaint says The embezzlement scheme started to unravel in June of 2023 when a township check was returned because of insufficient funds The board hired accounting firm Eide Bailly to conduct an audit at the cost of $23,000 the firm flagged more than $1 million in suspicious transactions Phone calls registered to Randall VanDeKieft and his trucking businesses went unanswered VanDeKieft represented the board at official meetings where she said the township didn’t have the money to pay for road bills she told the Lincoln County Commission that her township didn’t have the money to pay for repairs on a bridge The county’s emergency management director suggested that the issue be brought up to the Federal Emergency Management Agency for federal tax dollars and the commission debated about whether to divert some of its own funds to the project Canton is represented by Derek Nelsen and Andrew Fick of Fuller Already have an account? Log in here Authorities say Jones might have been disoriented as he suffers from dementia and other medical issues requiring medication Digital Producer/Weekend Assignment Editor according to the Hiwassee Dam Fire Department went missing on April 30 and was seen driving across multiple counties in Georgia "Our department sends prayers for his loved ones," says the fire department except from the police agencies involved in the search." PREVIOUS STORY: Multiple counties across Georgia and North Carolina are on the lookout for 85-year-old Byron Jones He was last seen driving a navy 2015 Toyota Camry Hybrid, with a Georgia license plate: TBX7562, according to the Cherokee County Sheriff's Office in North Carolina. His vehicle was captured on traffic cameras traveling toward Blue Ridge near the Fannin/Gilmer county line on Monday Jones suffers from dementia and other medical conditions requiring regular medication A $25,000 reward is being offered for information that directly leads to his safe return home Georgia's emergency alert for cognitively impaired or disabled adults - Mattie's Call - has been initiated If you have any information on Jones or his whereabouts or directly contact the Canton Police Department at 770-720-4883 Email notifications are only sent once a day Get up-to-the-minute news sent straight to your device the Lumpkin County Sheriff's Office shared a post on its Facebook page saying that Byron Eugene "Gene" Jones family and friends of Jones said he suffered from demential and other medical conditions which required medical medication and attention The Facebook post was from someone close to the search efforts More updated details should be forthcoming later in the day A Canton man with recent ties to Hall County has been missing for more than one week and a reward is offered for details behind his safe recovery Family and friends of 85-year-old Byron Eugene "Gene" Jones say he suffers from demential and other medical conditions which require medical medication and attention He was last seen on the late evening of April 21 Georgia area driving a navy blue 2015 Toyota Camry hybrid with Georgia license tag # TBX7562 "Gene" Jones is described as a white male weighing about 185 pounds with receding gray hair A $25,000 reward is being offered for direct details that lead to Mr Jones' safe return.  Anyone with leads is asked to contact the Cherokee County Sheriff's Office at (770) 720-4883.  You can reference case # 202501785.  Eligibility details for the reward include: All claims are subject to verification and apprival by the family/law enforcement and may require signing a legal release and affidavit Home > News > 2025 > Nursing Simulation Center The new investment will allow the college to expand and upgrade its nursing programs to meet North Country regional needs New York State Governor Kathy Hochul today announced that SUNY Canton will receive funding to establish a SUNY Regional Nursing Simulation Center “By investing in nurses of the future we’re investing in the talent of aspiring professionals across our state and in the health care workforce we all rely on,” Governor Hochul said “The SUNY nursing simulation centers will make extraordinary strides toward preparing students and strengthening the pipeline of excellence in our SUNY system and beyond.” The college was awarded an $8 million SUNY Nursing Simulation Capital Investment Grant to expand its programs with equipment and physical space to offer quality simulation experiences to its students SUNY Canton plans to expand on its signature Nursing programs while continuing to provide high-quality hands-on training and expanding offerings to address some of the most needed clinical practice areas in healthcare “SUNY is committed to strengthening New York’s healthcare workforce and today’s groundbreaking investment in nursing simulation is a testament to this commitment and a reminder of the key role public higher education plays in health outcomes and workforce development Following enactment of Governor Hochul’s 2023 law championed by Senators Stavisky and Fahy and Assemblymember Lupardo to establish nursing simulation SUNY is at the forefront of simulation-based nursing education – transforming how we prepare our students to address the healthcare workforce shortage and evolving healthcare needs of New Yorkers.” “This major and transformative investment further establishes SUNY Canton as the North Country’s Regional Nursing Simulation Center It also will allow us to more than double access to our quality programs at all levels allowing us to help fill the local and state-wide need for highly qualified nurses The new simulation center will augment our hands-on learning opportunities and further strengthen SUNY Canton’s commitment to offering affordable accessible and applied experiences within the School of Science the college has integrated simulation training into its nursing curriculum with the use of computer-controlled life-like animatronic patient mannikins the funding will help create a new task training and resource room and integrated classroom and computer spaces in Wicks Hall according to School of Science,Health and Criminal Justice Dean Michele A who served as the Principal Investigator on the grant “Simulations are used to enhance and supplement existing laboratory exercises,” Snyder said “We embrace this opportunity to advance the healthcare workforce that serves our rural region and broaden the impact of healthcare in the North Country and I’m happy to see it come to fruition.” the center will support significant growth across all levels of undergraduate nursing programs including a 133% increase in the one-year Practical Nursing program a 160% increase in the two-year Registered Nurse associate degree program and a 192% increase in the Bachelor of Science in Nursing program within five years post-project completion “This new Regional Nursing Simulation Center represents a game-changer for SUNY Canton and the North Country,” said Assemblymember Scott A “We will not only see substantial growth across our nursing programs we will be able to provide our students with critical training that limited clinical placement opportunities have hindered in the past especially in high-demand specialties like obstetrics This will ultimately lead to better healthcare outcomes for our communities.” The announcement came as part of a $62 million investment with campus matches to establish three centers across SUNY to directly support prelicensure nursing program enrollment increases and advance the governor’s goal of growing New York’s healthcare workforce by 20% University at Buffalo and Stony Brook University also received portions of the funding.  SUNY Canton offers coed varsity esports and cheerleading © 2025 SUNY Canton | Web Accessibility | Privacy Statement | Non-Discrimination/Title IX CANTON TOWNSHIP, Mich. – A 29-year-old from Van Buren Township is facing an attempted murder charge in a road rage shooting outside a Walmart store. It happened at about 8:30 a.m. Friday, April 25, at the Walmart store on Michigan Avenue in Canton Township. Police believe Devonte James had fired shots within the store’s parking lot as part of a road rage dispute. James was charged Sunday, April 27, with assault with intent to murder, assault with intent to do great bodily harm, assault with a dangerous weapon and three counts of felony firearm. His bond was set at $250,000. James’ next hearing is scheduled for May 9. Copyright 2025 by WDIV ClickOnDetroit - All rights reserved. Dane Kelly is an Oreo enthusiast and producer who has spent the last seven years covering Michigan news and stories. Click here to take a moment and familiarize yourself with our Community Guidelines TV Listings Email Newsletters RSS Feeds Contests and Rules Contact Us Careers at WDIV Closed Captioning / Audio Description Public File Current EEO Report Terms of Use Privacy Policy Do Not Sell My Info FCC Applications Copyright © 2025 ClickOnDetroit.com is managed by Graham Digital and published by Graham Media Group set for May 15 at Royal DocksCanton RepositoryJACKSON TWP May 15 at the Royal Docks Brewhouse + Cannery and cocktails from an open bar and music provided by DJ Billy Manos The event will include live performances by Canton Ballet’s pre-professional dancers The event also will showcase a collection of unique experiences available for auction southern Italian cooking class and a family day at Portage Lakes Participation in the auction requires purchasing a ticket to Relevé at the Docks. For more information and to buy event tickets, visit https://cantonballet.com/giving/releve-at-the-docks/ Canton Ballet also is hosting a $20 gift card pull at their offices through May 12 Visit the Canton Ballet offices located at the Cultural Center for the Arts during operating hours: Monday and Wednesday from 10 a.m participants draw a gift card from a hat and are guaranteed to walk away a winner Prizes include options like a $300 detail service from Kempthorn Motors and gift cards from popular local spots including Kennedy’s Bar-B-Que Stark County has some severe weather approaching The National Weather Service issued a hazardous weather outlook for severe thunderstorms expected this afternoon into tonight "Thunderstorms are likely this afternoon and evening Some storms may be severe with damaging wind gusts being the primary threat," according to the outlook The timing for the storm system is currently listed as noon to 8 p.m showers and thunderstorms are likely mainly after 5 p.m Here's what the National Weather Service recommends during a severe thunderstorm: What's the forecast?Here's a look at the conditions through the week in the Akron-Canton area: West wind 8 to 14 mph becoming north after midnight North wind 5 to 7 mph becoming calm in the afternoon Wednesday night: A chance of showers before 9 p.m. then showers likely and possibly a thunderstorm after 2 p.m Thursday night: Showers likely and possibly a thunderstorm New rainfall amounts between a tenth and quarter of an inch Saturday: A chance of showers before 2 p.m A Canton area native will be among those honored Friday for their military service Capt. Kenneth W. Cordier will be posthumously inducted into the Ohio Military Hall of Fame for Valor for his time in the U.S Cordier has reflected great credit upon himself and the United States Air Force," according to the hall "He had a distinguished career as an advocate for (prisoners of war) He was born in Canton and entered the service from Akron This will be the 26th annual induction ceremony and this year's class includes 19 veterans from the U.S "These remarkable Ohioans have all gone above and beyond the call of duty and performed heroically in specific combat actions against armed enemies of the United States of America," according to a news release "Many have earned multiple awards for valor All were born in Ohio or entered the service from Ohio." there will be a total of 517 recipients of the Ohio Military Hall of Fame for Valor 20 of which were awarded the Medal of Honor The ceremony is scheduled to begin at 11:30 a.m The inductees have connections to the following cities and towns in Ohio SANDUSKY − Cedar Point is a gem of an amusement park nestled along the shores of Lake Erie offering grand views atop roller coasters and Americana ambience of food But the sprawling destination can be overwhelming for newbies And even repeat guests admit to discovering a new element each time they visit said she's been to the park more times than she can count "It feels like a new experience every time we come here," she said while waiting in line for the Top Thrill 2 roller coaster on Opening Day May 3 said Cedar Point is "a summertime destination." "There's nothing better to do than come here," she said Diehards and other amusement park lovers flock to Cedar Point But how can you pack the most into your day anytime you visit I scoured the soggy park on Opening Day for the 2025 season to find out the Top 5 tips for enjoying a day at Cedar Point Cedar Point coins itself as the coaster capital of the world But the top attraction currently is Top Thrill 2 a vaunted follow-up to its wickedly wild predecessor Known for its velocity and free-fall moments Top Thrill 2 operated only 10 days last year due to maintenance and mechanical issues The park touts it as the world's tallest and fastest triple-launch strata coaster Cedar Point: Eager fans line up early for rainy Opening Day and Top Thrill 2 a two-minute adventure compared to less than 30 seconds Among those willing to wait in the rain for more than an hour were Cowgiel and Cassady "It was amazing," Cassady said of riding Top Thrill 2 last year "Going backwards and getting to the top speeds" are the best part "You stay at that top speed," Cassady added Compared to the original Top Thrill Dragster but I'll hype myself up for it knowing it will be amazing coming off of it was bracing himself for his first trip on Top Thrill 2 "I'm shaking right now," he admitted with a smile said she couldn't wait to ride Top Thrill 2 again after earning a first rider pin last season "I rode it with my 15-year-old and the whole time he was like 'I can't breath,' and it literally likes takes your breath away but it's super exciting and exhilarating." there are plenty other cool coasters to experience Millennium Force has a petrifying 310-foot drop and reaches a top speed of 93 mph Maverick features two inversions and a 95-degree drop where twin trains zoom side by side up and through an assortment of dips and turns before careening down a 125-foot hill to the finish line a peak speed of 72 mph and stunning views of the lake And then there's the coaster that freaks me out (in a good way I promise) every time I board the beast − Steel Vengeance this one boogies and leaves you feeling as if you've stepped outside of your body and back into it again The hybrid coaster seems as if it will never end the park offers more than high-octane rides Classics include the Bluestreak wooden coaster dating to 1964 and located near the park's entrance from the white-and-blue color scheme to the cupola atop a 78-foot hill "Something that's a staple to any amusement park is a wooden roller coaster," Clark said That's also the first type of coaster that existed Our carpenters do a wonderful job maintaining that ride." Siren's Curse is comingCedar Point always tries to top itself in the thrill ride department This summer is no different. Siren's Curse is scheduled to open in early summer, Clark said. Updates will be posted on Cedar Point's social media accounts, including Facebook and Instagram The newest scream machine will be the tallest fastest and longest tilt coaster in North America and plunging and zooming on nearly 3,000 feet of track before reaching a maximum speed of 58 mph And there's more − 13 weightless airtime moments and two 360-degree Sounds more like NASA or SpaceX astronaut training than an amusement park ride We live in an era of foodies − culinary explorers are on television So where should you head when the belly grumbles? Happy Friar There's also a spot for their signature fresh-cut fries closer to the park entrance near the Raptor roller coaster The park has made the fry experience easier this year by expanding and enclosing the Happy Friar food stand Not only can you cool or dry off and wait inside pick your toppings and create a fry masterpiece Adding cheese and chili is a can't miss for the taste buds Some special toppings also might be offered periodically during the summer "They're not frozen," he said of the fries "They're fresh potatoes; they're cut in the back They're served pretty directly out of the fryer." Longtime Cedar Point visitors like Grant Pleasant Sr. said the fries are one of the reasons he returns to the park "This is probably my favorite snack in the park," he said "I've been eating these fries since I was 4 years old They're big and it's a big portion; they're crispy "You can put whatever toppings you want on there," Pleasant continued I've been getting ketchup and vinegar on these for 30 years." Another culinary standout is BackBeatQue where meat is smoked overnight and authentic barbecue fare is served as well as smoked sausage and rotisserie chicken Located between the Monster ride and Magnum XL-200 roller coaster cornbread muffins and house-made mac and cheese For park enthusiasts who spend all day at Cedar Point, I recommend purchasing the All Day Dining Plan for $33.99 which gives you access to BackBeat and other dining options Hugo's Italian Kitchen and The Farmhouse Kitchen & Grill Cedar Point tickets start at $50 for a daily visit, according to the park's website. Buying tickets online is cheaper than at the park Discounts are also posted on social media occasionally Gold passes previously were sold at a pre-season discounted rate of around $100 A couple of visits to the park will pay off that amount plus taxes and fees; it includes free parking and unlimited access to the amusement park through Labor Day as well as to Cedar Point Shores Waterpark and HalloWeekends in the fall and include free parking and unlimited access to the amusement park through Labor Day Passes also get you discounts on food and merchandise For more information and to buy passes, go to www.cedarpoint.com. Any day is a good day to go to Cedar Point weekdays typically mean an easier time finding parking and shorter wait times for rides than weekends Cedar Point will have limited weekday hours until the week of May 19 "Saturdays are our typically busiest day," he said Sunday is a great day to come with the family Wednesdays and Thursdays are probably the best days to visit Especially in May through early June and then again in August when we're open during the week You'll have less crowds as people go back to school and the season starts for the school year." Reach Ed at ebalint@gannett.com and follow on Instagram at ed_balint and TikTok @edwardbalint Akron-Canton Airport to get new nonstop flights to ChicagoCanton RepositoryThis story has been updated with additional information GREEN − American Airlines will soon add to the Akron-Canton Airport's nonstop service to Chicago The airline will start twice-daily flights on Oct. 6, according to an airport news release United Airlines now offers the only nonstop service to Chicago O'Hare International Airport "This service is a win for both business and leisure travelers offering nonstop access to a leading global hub," Ren Camacho "We’re proud to strengthen our partnership with American as we expand travel options for our region.” American Airlines also operates nonstop flights from Akron-Canton to Washington The new flights will depart Akron-Canton Airport for Chicago at 6:45 a.m and flights from Chicago to Akron-Canton will leave at 2 p.m Tickets can be purchased at aa.com or with the American Airlines mobile app starting May 5 The Akron-Canton/Chicago flights were among several new destinations announced for Chicago travelers “American is thrilled to bring new nonstop service from Akron-Canton to our Chicago O’Hare hub,” Jordan Pack American’s director of domestic network planning “Complementing existing service to Charlotte and Washington this new service will make it easier for travelers to reach cities in the Midwest and Western United States but state semifinal basketball in Canton was a one-time thing The OHSAA needed extra venues after an expansion from four divisions to seven Several days separated the state semis at various sites and the state championship games in Dayton The OHSAA announced April 30 that the 2026 boys and girls basketball final fours will be played within three or four days “I think their plan is a good plan,” Bogdan said “I expressed that even when we were having that magical day in March “I understand the feeling of wanting to be in one spot and being able to see multiple games I think they’re going to end up with something that’s a little more familiar to teams that make the final four without being exactly the same it’s been in the past “There will be multiple games going on at the same time at different sites.” The Field House has played host to numerous Sweet 16 and Elite Eight regional games over the years but never had been used for a state semifinal until this year The overwhelming atmospheres showed why the Field House is regarded as one of the best basketball venues its size (capacity upwards of 5,000) in the country Like the tournament run of Hickory High School in the movie “Hoosiers,” it only happened once who maintains close contact with the OHSAA believes future state basketball final fours will be conducted in the same locale within three or four days with final fours having been conducted in either Columbus and Dayton Final four logistics had to be refigured this year after an expansion from four divisions to seven in both the boys and girls ranks squeezing semis and finals into the same arena across three or four days was manageable It is set that the 2026 final four will be in the Dayton area in March Semifinals would be conducted Thursday and Friday at the University of Dayton Arena and nearby venues under consideration Another possibility is operating the final fours Wednesday through Saturday Another is cramming all of the games into a Thursday-through-Saturday window Louisville and Perry played their semifinals on Sunday What Bogdan calls "that magical day in March" drew rave reviews from the OHSAA “We’ll just go back to being a really good regional site,” Bogdan said CANTON – A new Mexican restaurant will open later this month in a downtown space that formerly housed H2 Huth & Harris wine merchant H2 owner William Patrick Huth said the restaurant at 427 Tuscarawas St and H2 in downtown Medina,” Huth said Thursday in a phone interview The closure opened the door for Shelley and Jose Banderas to lease the upstairs and patio space for a new Mexican restaurant called La Sirena “The restaurant and their talents will be a great addition to the Canton dining scene,” Huth added Food news: Celebrate Cinco de Mayo at these Mexican restaurants around Stark County The Banderases are no strangers to the restaurant business Jose Banderas has worked 18 years as a chef in Ohio and North Carolina he served as head chef at Tres Potrillos in Tallmadge Shelley Banderas’ background includes retail “We’re looking forward to welcoming people to our new restaurant,” the couple said but we plan to open as soon as those are in place.” guests will be able to enjoy drinks and dining throughout the space — including a bar and dining area downstairs La Sirena will distinguish itself with a focus on authentic Mexican seafood dishes — a nod to the sea reflected in the restaurant’s name Restaurant closures: Lowry’s Family Restaurant in East Canton to close after nearly a decade Follow La Sirena on Facebook for updates can be reached at bshaffer@gannett.com or 330-580-8318.