CANTON - If you are wandering around the Canton Farmers’ Market on Friday, July 9, you will probably hear the sounds of a flowing fountain in the village park.

After five years of fundraising and renovation work, a ceremony to celebrate the reopening of the fountain will be held at 1 p.m.

“Clearly, there is pride in, and fondness for the park and fountain that runs exceedingly deep in the hearts and memories of those who were raised here in Canton, as well as those who currently call this their home,” said Rev. Michael Catanzaro, pastor of the First Presbyterian Church. “My sense of gratitude for the support received, not just for the fountain but for the idea of bettering our community, has left me forever humbled by the decency, vision and hope that abides here in Canton. This endeavor has received great support across a wide range of the community, and from folks both near and far.”

Brief remarks will be made by Rev. Catanzaro, Mayor Michael Dalton and Supervisor Mary Ann Ashley. The ceremony will be enhanced by the VFW Color Guard and renditions from the Goldenaires barbershoppers.

Morgan’s Ice House, in partnership with the First Presbyterian Church, will be providing certificates for a free baby cone.

“This will allow the latest generation of kids to experience a true Canton right-of-passage in enjoying some ice cream at the fountain,” said Rev. Catanzaro.

The July 9 fountain ceremony will be preceded with a First Responder Meet and Greet on Thursday, July 8, in the village park. On hand will be representatives from Canton Fire Department and Rescue Squad, and Canton Village Police Department.

The First Presbyterian Church will be providing free hot dogs, soda and water, chips and pretzels and homemade (nut-free) cookies. 

“The entire community is invited to come meet and greet the folks who are always there for their neighbors, though seldom known or recognized,” Rev. Catanzaro stated. “This celebration of our lives together is a way to get to know those who care for, support and safeguard our community.”

The musical ensemble “Classic Country,” comprised of Carter Houk, Donnie Woodcock, Steve Manders and Josh Kirkpatrick, will provide live music. A simple mixer game to encourage conversation will be held with each participant to be included in a pizza raffle.

The public will have the opportunity for a “sneak peek” at the fountain which will be filled by the fire department’s pumper truck that evening.

The park project will continue with the installation of new benches, picnic tables and trash cans in August, and tree work and plantings this fall.

“As this project has demonstrated, good things will happen when we find common ground, challenge each other to serve the greater good, and move beyond what easily separates us to that which might forever bind us together,” Rev. Catanzaro remarked.

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