Good morning, Canton.

Chais Ross, a Twenty Under 40 honoree, is close to opening Chasing Hope House, an independent home for older foster youth in Canton.

The CEO and founder aims to expand her project across Ohio (showing her community dedication) while leading local change.

Homeowners are urged to inspect roofs, gutters + foundations before summer storms hit to prevent costly water damage, with the Building Industry Association stressing early repairs.

This advice comes as part of seasonal preparations to protect homes from weather risks.

Stark Pride Festival returns today in downtown Canton with drag queen star Onya Nurve (the featured guest) to mark its fifth year, and organizers say the event is needed more than ever to boost local pride.

Jeff Dafler of the Canton Regional Chamber urges Stark County to welcome data centers for economic growth (they support reliable services like banking and healthcare and strengthen infrastructure and the tax base).

His guest essay calls for local leaders to move past nostalgia and embrace informed development.

Ohio has seen more rain as warmer temperatures and early El Niño conditions bring heavy storms and flood warnings on the Great Lakes.

Experts say the same weather pattern (warm Gulf air meeting cooler northern air) has driven these repeated spring storms.

Ohio lawmakers set a three-day back-to-school sales tax holiday from Aug.

7 to 9 for 2026 for items like clothes, supplies & instructional materials. A budget bill heading to Gov. Mike DeWine will allow a 15-day holiday covering most tangible items under $500 in 2027.

Canton’s Environmental Health Department started its annual mosquito mitigation program as warm weather boosted insect activity.

The city will spray neighborhoods from June 15 to 25 from 9 p.m. to midnight and advises residents to wear long sleeves, use bug spray and drain stagnant water.

Gabby Whalen (Jackson track) and Evan Fuller (North Canton Hoover baseball) were named Stark County High School Athlete of the Week for June 1-7 after garnering a total of 1,253 votes.

Whalen cleared 12-6 in pole vault and Fuller pitched a one-hitter to help his team reach the state tournament.

Summer Second Sole Ladies Night 2026

5-7 p.m. — Second Sole — Free entry — Enjoy an evening of fitness, fun, and community with local women-owned businesses.

Goodwill Community Resource Fair

11:30 AM – 3:00 PM — The Goodwill Ken Weber Community Campus — Free entry — Discover valuable resources from local nonprofits and enjoy free snacks and activities for children.

Matilda Pablo Live at 410 Lounge

7:30-10 p.m. — 410 Lounge — No cover charge — Enjoy an evening of live music with Matilda Pablo in a relaxed lounge atmosphere.

9 Ball Graduation Tournament

10 a.m. — Fiddlestix Billiard Cafe Inc — $50 entry — Compete in a thrilling 9 Ball tournament with a chance to take down the graduate.

Smoov Father's Day Brunch

12-4 p.m. — The Dawg House on 30th — Cost varies — Celebrate Father's Day with great food, strong drinks, and nonstop R&B vibes.

Plaza Summer Concert Series - Chris Higbee

7:00-9:30 p.m. — Centennial Plaza — Free entry — Enjoy electrifying country music from Chris Higbee and his dynamic band in a lively outdoor concert.

Red Wanting Blue Concert

7-10 p.m. — Centennial Plaza — Tickets available starting April 2, 2026 — Enjoy a night of energetic rock from Ohio's own Red Wanting Blue.

Canton's Enchanted Princess Ball

10 a.m. – 4 p.m. — Gervasi Vineyard Resort & Spa — $65 per ticket — Experience the magic with beloved princesses, delightful meals, and enchanting entertainment.

African American Arts & Cultural Festival

10 a.m. - 9 p.m. — Visit Canton Downtown Visitor Center — Free entry — Experience two unforgettable days of culture, music, food, and community.

Portage Lakes Fireworks

9-11 p.m. — Portage Lakes State Park — Free entry — Celebrate with spectacular fireworks and enjoy a festive boat parade earlier in the day.