Good morning, Canton.

The Postal Service announced a proposal that will raise the cost for a one-ounce letter stamp from 73 to 78 cents and a book of 20 stamps from $14.60 to $15.60—pending approval by the Postal Regulatory Commission—effective July 13.

This change will mark the 20th price rise since 2001 and could boost mailing service costs by about 7.4%.

Guest essayist Thomas West—president and CEO of the Greater Stark County Urban League—argues that community banks are vital for supporting local families and small businesses with loans and financial education programs.

He warns that rising regulatory burdens and growing competition will hurt the banks' ability to serve underserved communities and urges policymakers to provide fair access to innovative funding tools.

The Stark County Sheriff’s Office Dog Warden Division in Canton was honored by Best Friends Animal Society for achieving a 98% save rate for dogs in their care in 2024 and for earning national recognition as a no-kill shelter.

The division—which includes one sergeant, two deputies and five K9 technicians—partners with local groups to provide essential care for dogs beyond its facility capacity.

Stark County is accepting votes now for the 2024-25 Boys Athlete of the Year with nominees from Central Catholic, Fairless, Hoover, Marlington, Northwest, and Perry.

The poll stays open until 5 p.m. July 10 and the winner will be announced next morning on CantonRep.com—highlighting top high school performances.

Ray Negron compared Thurman Munson’s quiet leadership to Aaron Judge’s steady presence in a tribute ahead of the Thurman Munson Catchers Scholarship Dinner in Canton scheduled for Thursday, July 10 at 6 p.m. —Bucky Dent, a former teammate of Munson, will deliver remarks at the sold-out event honoring his legacy.

Registration remains open for the 74th Tigertown Open at The Elms Country Club—players can join one of four divisions including Pro, Senior Pro, Amateur, and Senior Amateur.

Participants must submit entries by Tuesday, July 15 as the tournament will take place on Friday, July 18.

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.

DJ's Rock N Roll Big Band

7-9 p.m. — Duncan Plaza Amphitheater — Free entry — Relive the nostalgia with classic hits from the 50s & 60s that will have you dancing and singing all night long.

Dog Adoption & Wellness Fair

10 a.m-2 p.m. — Witwer Park — Free entry — Discover adorable adoptable pets and enjoy wellness resources from local rescues.

Summer Serenades: Brass Quintet Concert

6:30 PM – 11:59 PM — Exploration Gateway — Free entry — Enjoy the beautiful sounds of nature and music in this family-friendly concert series.

Free Intro to Rope Workshop

6-8 p.m. — Lover's Lane — Free entry — Experience a fun and informative workshop on the basics of rope tying.

Meet It Works! Opportunity Event

2-4 p.m. — Stark Library - North Branch — Free entry — Discover It Works! products and connect with the local community for health and wealth inspiration.

Girls GameBreaker Lacrosse Camp

9 a.m. – 3 p.m. — Walsh University — Bring your own lunch — Develop your lacrosse skills in a fun, supportive environment tailored for girls aged 6-16.