Good morning, Canton.

A wide range of community events are set to take place across Stark County this week—free concerts, festivals, markets and museum events are planned, including a Canton Symphony Orchestra string quartet at Bimeler Park on June 26 and the WHBC 100th anniversary party downtown on June 27. Local families can also enjoy outdoor movie nights, art shows, air museum tours and tribute concerts with free or low-cost admission.

A new guide details Fourth of July celebrations in the Canton region with fireworks at McKinley Memorial Park in Canton on July 3, where gates open at 6 p.m. and fireworks begin around 9:45 p.m.—other communities in Stark County will host similar events on July 3, 4, and 5.

Kathy Cowgill, president of Cathy Cowgill Flowers, began working in a flower shop at 15 and learned her craft through hands-on experience, social media, and industry groups.

She runs her Canton store—a business with family roots dating back to 1909 and incorporated in 1986—and recently celebrated her 40th wedding anniversary while staying active in the Stark County community.

Canton public schools are working to boost student enrollment in career and technical education to meet a 60% rule that could force them to sell buildings if not met.

Education leaders say teacher shortages and the draw of social media make it hard for older students to join these programs—while community colleges report a rise in vocational enrollments.

Scott Gwin, a retired judge with decades on the 5th District Court of Appeals, joined Plakas Mannos in April as of counsel to advise on complex civil cases plus share his deep legal expertise.

He will work with the firm’s experienced lawyers to guide challenging cases in Canton.

On June 3, an RV broke loose while being towed and struck the 120-year-old William McKinley statue outside the Stark County Courthouse, causing $7,300 in damage to its base, demolishing the Lincoln Highway marker, and prompting county officials to repair the damage and plan to recover costs with no injuries reported.

Olde Canal Days Festival

5-11 p.m. & 11 a.m.-11 p.m. — Olde Canal Days Festival — Free entry — Celebrate Canal Fulton's rich heritage with crafts, food, entertainment, and a parade over three exciting days.

HAPPY 100th Anniversary Celebration of 1480 WHBC

4-8 p.m. — Centennial Plaza — Free entry — Celebrate a century of broadcasting with community fun and festivities.

Step Into Autism Fundraiser

10 AM – 12 PM — William McKinley Memorial — Donations appreciated — Participate in a major fundraising event supporting autism programs in Northeast Ohio.

Fourth of July Spectacular!

Independence Activities — Jul 3-7 — Canton / East Sparta KOA Holiday — Family fun with fireworks, an ice cream social, and a nighttime treasure hunt.

Akron RubberDucks vs Flying Squirrels

6:35-10:35 p.m. — Canal Park — Tickets available — Catch the thrilling baseball showdown between the Akron RubberDucks and the Flying Squirrels.

Foundation Elite Volleyball Camp

9 AM - 12 PM — Bull Dog Virtual Academy @ Timken — Cost not listed — Focused camp for beginners and intermediates to develop volleyball skills in a supportive environment.

Elton John Tribute by Elton Rohn

7:30-9 p.m. — Plain Township Amphitheater — $10.00 - $165.00 — Experience an electrifying tribute to Elton John with live performances of all the hits.

Downtown Canton Blues & BBQ Festival

5-9:30 p.m. — Centennial Plaza — Free entry — Savor delicious BBQ while enjoying great blues music in a vibrant downtown setting.

Canton Summer Sizzle Craft & Vendor Market

11 a.m. – 8 p.m. & 11 a.m. – 6 p.m. — Belden Village Mall — Free entry — Celebrate summer with local vendors showcasing unique creations and seasonal goodies.

Canal Fulton Community Band Concert

7-9 p.m. — Duncan Plaza Amphitheater — Free entry — Experience a delightful evening of music from talented local musicians in the Canal Fulton Community Concert Band.