Good morning, Lancaster.

Lancaster City Schools said the new high school project is on track even after recent storms caused flooding and debris near Arbor Valley—cleanup continues near Fetters Run and the athletic fields.

Construction will finish in time for the high school to open in August 2026.

Jessica Rutkowski returns to OHIO as the Regional Recruitment Manager at OHIO Lancaster (bringing a decade of experience in student engagement, leadership development, and strategic communication) and will support enrollment efforts by visiting local high schools and hosting campus tours.

Ohio began its extended two-week sales tax holiday on August 1 to help families buy back-to-school items; the tax-free period will end on August 14 and covers school supplies, clothing, and more (excluding alcohol, tobacco, vape products, and large-ticket items).

Local retailers are already reporting strong shopper interest (one Walmart survey found 70% of customers hunting for deals).

Real-estate data shows Lancaster is one of the most affordable housing markets in central Ohio—homes in Lancaster sold at a median price of $234,900 during the first half of the year.

Buyers in nearby communities faced higher prices, with New Albany and Powell reporting significantly larger median values.

Lancaster pitcher Ashlin Mowery capped her high school career by helping the Lady Gales reach their first Division I state tournament with 18 strikeouts in a state semifinal game and she will play college softball at LSU.

In an interview, she said that overcoming personal challenges helped her manage high expectations — she also shared that her love for art brings balance to her life.

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.

Lancaster Varsity Field Hockey Game

7-8:15 p.m. — Lancaster High School — Free entry — Cheer for the Lancaster varsity field hockey team as they face off against Olentangy in a home conference match.

Obetz Zucchinifest

Thu, Aug 28 — Fortress Obetz — Free admission — Enjoy free concerts and everything zucchini at this family-friendly festival.