Good morning, Lancaster.

Retail chain Dollar General announced it will close 96 flagship stores and 45 pOpshelf stores—adding to a plan that also converts six pOpshelf locations in the next fiscal quarter after a drop in profits.

Ohio has more than 1,000 Dollar General spots and 10 pOpshelf stores, but the company has not yet named any locations for closure in the state.

Former school custodian Edward Dorst pleaded guilty on Thursday to six counts of secretly recording staff in a Pickerington school bathroom and will serve nine months in jail + four years of probation while he must remain 1,000 feet from schools and register as a sex offender, with no students filmed.

Fairfield County Education Service Center is running a four-year grant program to help underserved rural students learn manufacturing and STEM skills.

The program started in 2024 and runs through the 2027-28 school year — it partners with Belmont County ESC, the Workforce Center and Ohio University — to improve career readiness.

The Fairfield County ADAMH Board held a week-long Crisis Intervention Team training for 18 law enforcement officers, dispatchers and criminal justice staff to improve responses to mental health crises.

Toni Ashton led expert sessions on de-escalation techniques, local resource access and role-playing exercises—participants earned certificates and pins at the conclusion.

Gardening expert Kaitlin Mitchell of Rutabaga Tools says beginners in Lancaster can start a garden with 10 easy plants such as potatoes, peas, lettuce, tomatoes, radishes, peppers, basil, cucumbers, strawberries, and mint—each offering a simple choice for various spaces.

She advises using quality organic soil and regular fertilizer to help plants grow well in small windowsills, patios, or garden beds—tips that can make gardening more rewarding.

Live Performance by Hello Luna

Hello Luna, a Columbus-based pop rock band, will perform high-energy live music at Rockhouse 39 in Lancaster.

Grace Haven Chili Cook-Off

4-6 p.m. — Fairfield Christian Church — $20 entry — Bring your best chili for a chance to win prizes while supporting a local ministry.

Virtual Tour of Senior Living

9 AM - 7 PM | Seniors Helping Seniors Mid-Ohio | Free entry | Explore the best in senior living services and community care.

Chocolate Walk

4-7 p.m. — Destination Downtown Lancaster — Ticketed event — Indulge in a delightful variety of chocolate treats from local businesses while exploring the downtown area.