Good morning, Canton.

World War II veteran Earl Hickman of North Canton will turn 101 tomorrow, July 4, as the nation marks its 250th birthday; the veteran served on the USS Jenkins during the war (he enlisted at 17) and now enjoys a local celebration of his milestone.

Canton events this week include yesterday’s Monumental Fireworks at the McKinley Monument (live music, food trucks and a youth drumline) and First Friday tonight downtown with bands, a dance party and a Kidz Zone, while festivals and tribute concerts are set for later this week.

A new study finds Ohio has the highest risk for backyard fireworks accidents, noting that amateur displays (with a 3.54% mishap chance) carry greater dangers.

Canton residents are advised to attend the professional fireworks show at North Canton City Square at 9:30 p.m. July 4 and follow safety guidelines.

Stark resident Dale Karmie, cofounder of ForeverLawn, decorated his Dodge Challenger and silos with patriotic U.S. colors at his Marlboro Township home ahead of July 4 (his America 250 theme adds a unique twist).

Canton police rescued a juvenile groundhog (Canton City Chuck) from a window well at the Stark County Courthouse.

Ohio health officials reported 177 cyclosporiasis cases across 43 counties as of July 2, with Lucas (30 cases) and Wood (20 cases) among the hardest hit.

Officials are working with state and federal partners to identify the source and advise safe produce handling.

Minerva golfer Paul Wackerly shot a 78 +8 in his first round at the U.S. Senior Open on Thursday, July 2 at Scioto Country Club in Columbus.

He faces a tough second round today as he competes against seasoned players for a share of a 4M purse.

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.

Canton R&B Musicfest

7 p.m. — Centennial Plaza — BOGO Special on tickets — Enjoy the unforgettable sounds of Brownstone and Sunshine Anderson in a vibrant summer concert.

Funky Music Night with Zapp

7-11 p.m. — Lock 3 Park — Free entry — Experience high-energy grooves that will get you dancing all night long.

Forever Seger - The Silver Bullet Experience

7:30-9:30 p.m. — Plain Township Amphitheater — $10.00 - $165.00 — Experience the dynamic tribute to Bob Seger and The Silver Bullet Band with authentic performances.

The Fantasy Football Expo

10 a.m. - 4 p.m. — Canton Memorial Civic Center — $70 - $290 — Experience Fantasy Football's greatest weekend with experts, parties, and panels in Canton, Ohio.

Fantasy Football Expo

10 a.m. — Canton Memorial Civic Center — $20 — Step into the Fantasy Football Expo, explore vendor booths, and connect with creators in a vibrant tradeshow setting.