Good morning, Canton.

The 31st annual Blood Battle donation drive will run Oct.

16–21 in Canton and Massillon to help local hospitals, and Canton events will be held on Oct. 20 at City Hall and McKinley High Commons.

Comet Lemmon, discovered in January, will make its closest approach to Earth on Oct.

21 and will brighten for potential naked-eye viewing from dark sky spots; Ohio stargazers near Fry Family Park can catch a glimpse later this week+ the comet will gain intensity through late October and early November.

Amazon announced Tuesday that it is creating 250,000 seasonal positions nationwide—11,000 of which are in Ohio—for the upcoming holiday season.

The roles offer flexible scheduling and pay an average wage of more than $19 per hour.

Ohio is projected to decline from the 7th most populous state to the 9th by 2030 and lose over 675,000 residents by 2050—fewer births and an aging population drive this trend while central counties like Delaware and Union post growth that may lower federal funding and state services.

Air traffic controllers and TSA agents at Akron Canton Airport received partial paychecks on Tuesday during the government shutdown, heightening concerns over missed pay and causing delays—140 delays were reported for Charlotte flights and over 30 at Cleveland Hopkins.

Union leaders urged elected officials to end the shutdown as workers risk further financial stress.

Ohio Lt Gov Jim Tressel spoke to dozens of local kids on Oct 14 at the Boys & Girls Club in Massillon to launch the Team Tressel Fitness Challenge that began in September and lasts 90 days.

He led basic exercise drills — saying that a healthy lifestyle helps improve school performance and future job opportunities.

The CDC predicts a moderate flu season this fall and winter after last year's high-severity season—when hospitalizations reached levels not seen since 2010-11—and Canton doctors urge residents to get vaccinated early to build immunity.

Flu season runs from October through March and experts stress hand washing and isolation if sick to slow the spread.

Stark County high school football teams will play OHSAA Week 9 games on Oct.

17 as part of the regular season. The schedule lists key matchups and game times — keeping local fans informed.

Stark County high school football players reached key milestones in the 2025 season—Malvern’s Julius Gore and Minerva’s Tim Kirkpatrick were the first to surpass 1,000 rushing yards while JR Jackson and West Branch’s Grady Hirst neared 2,000 passing yards.

Jeremiah Thomas also passed 100 points and coaches must submit updated stats by noon on Mondays to keep the rankings current—ensuring the area leaderboards reflect ongoing performances.

The OHSAA released its weekly high school football computer ratings on Tuesday to set the stage for playoff selections as 708 schools across several divisions were ranked—top 12 teams from each region will qualify on Oct 26, leading to state finals in Canton from Dec 4-6.

Beetlejuice Jr.

Beetlejuice JR. is a spooky, spectacular junior production packed with laughs, thrills, and unforgettable music. Based on Tim Burton’s iconic film, this high-energy musical follows quirky teen Lydia Deetz as she navigates life, death, and the outrageous antics of a mischievous demon named Beetlejuice.

Pumpkin Days at Nickajack Farms

11 a.m.-7 p.m. — Nickajack Farms — $17 admission — Enjoy a festive fall experience with a variety of activities including pumpkin picking, hayrides, and playful farm attractions.

Trunk or Treat

2:30-4 p.m. — Goldfish Swim School - North Canton — Free entry — Celebrate Halloween with games, activities, and treats for all ages.

WINNIE THE POOH BOOOOO!

Join Pooh and Friends for a Not-So-Spooky Halloween Adventure—Full of Giggles, Friendship, and Silly Surprises in the Hundred Acre Wood! Halloween costumes are encouraged! Stay after the show to join Winnie the Pooh and friends for a costume parade and trick-or-treating stations! 10/24–10/26

WINNIE THE POOH BOOOOO!

Join Pooh and Friends for a Not-So-Spooky Halloween Adventure—Full of Giggles, Friendship, and Silly Surprises in the Hundred Acre Wood! Halloween costumes are encouraged! Stay after the show to join Winnie the Pooh and friends for a costume parade and trick-or-treating stations! 10/24–10/26

The Great Pumpkin Race

12:15-3:00 p.m. — Stark County Board of Developmental Disabilities — Registration Required — Celebrate the 27th Anniversary of this beloved community race featuring pumpkin-themed fun.

Haunted Forest Marathon Weekend

8 a.m. – 2 p.m. — St. Helena Heritage Park — Cost varies by race — Family-friendly themed marathon event featuring options for all runners to enjoy the spooky atmosphere.

Trunk or Treat Event

5:30-7:30 p.m. — Stadium Park — Free entry — Enjoy a festive evening of trick-or-treating with costumes and candy from local organizations.

Haymaker's Mill Masquerade Ball

7-11 p.m. — Haymaker's Mill 1875 — In-person event with free parking — Experience a night of mystery and revelry with enchanting masks and live music.

Toby's Critter Cove Rescue Bingo Fundraiser

4:30-7:30 p.m. — The Howlin Bird — Ticket purchase required — Play Bingo and support Toby's Critter Cove with fun prizes and raffles.

Gospel and Jazz Gala

7-9 p.m. — Foltz Center — Support local education — Experience a night of soulful music while honoring the community's contributions.