Good morning, Canton.

Canton resident John Stone is on a mission to spread sunflower seeds from (Nimisilla Park) around the globe, and he explains his effort in a recent talk.

On Apr. 22, the University of Mount Union’s Regula Center honored state Rep. Scott Oelslager, who received the Ralph Regula Award for Public Service, and retired teacher Elayne Dunlap, awarded the Mary Regula Award for Community Service, at Alliance County Club (the awards honor former local leaders).

Local arts and culture events fill Canton this week.

Canton Ballet marks 60 years with a performance and gala today and tomorrow, Canton Symphony presents American music on April 25, and Sneaker Mania runs on April 25 while Geena Davis speaks at Mount Union on April 28.

Para M. Jones, the longtime president of Stark State College, will retire on June 30, 2027 after 14 years of service + the board is conducting a national search for her successor to ensure a smooth transition for students and the community.

A concerned parent said Plain Local has not upgraded security after discussions with Superintendent Brent May; current measures like SROs and tip lines fall short compared to other Stark County schools (which use metal detectors) and administrators must focus on safety before a new levy proposal.

Stark County commissioners approved nearly $10 million for 2026 capital projects in Canton, including a $3.3 million electrical system upgrade at the fairgrounds to support modern events.

The project will install new transformers and an underground distribution panel to reduce outages and host larger shows.

Developers have listed the 10-acre former Hoover Co. west factory site on North Main Street plus East Maple Street for potential sale or lease, and city officials hope a new buyer will develop the roughly 509,290 sqft building that has been vacant since 2007.

The Ohio High School Athletic Association announced playoff regions for 2026 high school football on April 23 with Canton area Division II teams now all in Region 7 and Carrollton moving from Division III to Division IV — week 1 kicks off later in August.

Cleveland native Arvell Reese — a Glenville High School grad and standout Ohio State linebacker — was drafted 5th by the New York Giants in the NFL Draft on Thursday night in Pittsburgh.

He had 69 tackles and 6 1/2 sacks last season on a Buckeye team that posted a 12-2 record.

Sneaker Mania 2

11 AM – 6 PM — Executive Event Center — $5 for students, parents free — Enjoy the ultimate sneaker event with giveaways, food, and thousands of kicks.

Moon Glow Cherry Blossoms Painting Class

6:30-8:30 p.m. — Painting with a Twist — $20 add-on for candle-making — Enjoy a creative evening of painting and candle-making in a vibrant atmosphere.

Free First Friday Comedy Night

8-9:30 p.m. — Canton Comedy Boom — Free entry — Enjoy a night filled with diverse comedic talent from Northeast Ohio and beyond.

Pressed Flower Frame Workshop

6-8 p.m. — Lost Trail Winery and Vineyard — Food and beverages available for purchase — Create a hinged floral frame using beautiful flowers in a crafty evening at the winery.

2026 Mom-Mosa Trail

11 AM – 3 PM — Centennial Plaza — Cost of entry includes drink tickets — Celebrate Mother’s Day with mimosas, brunch bites, and local shopping on a self-guided trail.

North Canton Garden Club Perennial Plant Sale

1-5 p.m. — Price Park — Free entry — Browse a variety of perennial plants perfect for enhancing your home garden.

Learn Mahjong Workshop

12-3 p.m. — Lost Trail Winery and Vineyard — Food and wine available for purchase — Master the art of Mahjong with expert guidance from Mary Murphy.

Junie B. Jones JR Musical

3:30-5:30 p.m. — Stage Door Studios — $10.00 — Step into the cheerful world of Junie B. Jones and her first-grade adventures with friends.

Matilda Pablo Live at 410 Lounge

7:30-10 p.m. — 410 Lounge — No cover charge — Enjoy an evening of live music as Matilda Pablo performs at the 410 Lounge in Canton, Ohio.