Good morning, Lancaster.

Ohio Gov Mike DeWine ordered flags to fly at half-staff on public buildings in Lorain County and Columbus to honor Lorain police officer Phillip Wagner—who died in an ambush while on a lunch break with another officer shot and the suspect killed—and said the flags will remain lowered until sunset on the day of his funeral, which has not yet been scheduled.

During the Lancaster Festival on July 24, local residents drew chalk images on Fountain Square's sidewalk.

The arts event showcased community designs + featuring cartoon characters like Gudetama + and local creative works.

State gas prices dropped last week to an average of $2.89 per gallon on Monday, down from $3.05 per gallon the previous week according to the U.S. Energy Information Administration.

The prices fell 27 cents since last month and are about 7.4% lower than the national average.

Ohio Gov. Mike DeWine said 15 more counties will soon use Next Generation 911 that lets residents send texts and photos to 911 and shows their exact location; ten pilot counties already use the system and all counties must complete the switch within five years.

The state has invested $62 million (over two state budgets) to improve emergency response times.

Festival Fair Day

9:30 a.m. – 2:30 p.m. — Fairgrounds Camping — Free entry — A family day filled with activities like building birdhouses and watching dog performances.

Harold Stewart & The Blues Hounds Concert

8-9:30 p.m. — Wendel Concert Stage — Ticket prices vary — Experience an electrifying blues performance with soulful music and high-energy atmosphere.

August Saturday Cinema - The Addams Family (2019)

11:30 p.m. - 3:30 a.m. — Zane Square — Free entry — Enjoy a family-friendly film under the stars while indulging in pre-movie festivities.

Lancaster BrewFest 2025

3:00-9:30 PM — Zane Square (Veteran's Park) — $339 per package (for two guests) — Celebrate summer with craft beverages, live music, and local bites in a vibrant atmosphere.

Make-a-Pumpkin Pottery Playshop

3-5 p.m. — Mud Gallery Ceramics & Fine Art — BYOB — Create your own pinch-pot pumpkin with hands-on pottery instruction.

Third Annual Battle of the Badges: Police vs. Fire Basketball Game

2:30-5:30 p.m. — Ohio University Lancaster — $10 for adults, $5 for children — Enjoy a thrilling basketball matchup as local police officers take on firefighters to raise funds for Lancaster City Schools.