Good morning, Lancaster.

Ohio University reported a 3.6% enrollment increase to 30,682 students this fall, boosted by a record freshman class in Athens and improved retention at regional campuses including Lancaster—online and graduate programs also showed growth.

After July's flash floods caused wide damage and forced evacuations in south-central Ohio, the SBA offered low interest federal disaster loans to businesses, nonprofits, and residents in Fairfield, Franklin, Hocking, Licking, Perry, and Pickaway counties.

The program helps with repairs and property replacement—and applications for physical damage loans must be returned by Nov. 12.

Lori Alhadeff, who lost her daughter in a school shooting in Parkland, urged Ohio lawmakers to pass a law requiring wearable panic buttons in schools to alert first responders faster.

Senator Michele Reynolds (R-Canal Winchester) plans to prioritize the bipartisan bill while another proposal, House Bill 106 (pilot), offers $25 million for a trial program.

A federal appeals court ruled Sept.

16 that Ohio can ban green card holders and foreign nationals from donating to statewide ballot campaigns without violating the First Amendment, even as a lawsuit challenges the law. The ruling sends the case back for further review and was hailed by Secretary of State Frank LaRose—highlighting the state's effort to protect election integrity.

The Fisher Catholic volleyball team showed support for teammate Chloe Marcinko who was diagnosed with Stage 2 Hodgkin's Lymphoma in July.

They held Volley for Chloe on September 11 during a game against Berne Union—raising over $1,000 for her family as she cannot play this season.

Battle of the Bands Fundraiser

4-7 p.m. — Zane Square (Veteran's Park) — $20 donation — Enjoy live music from local bands while supporting a new all-accessible playground.

2nd Annual Sherman Rotary Pickleball Tournament

7:30 a.m. – 4:30 p.m. — YMCA RecPlex — Free entry — Engage in a day of fun competition at this community pickleball event.

Cancer Care Run & Walk

9:00 AM — Martens Park — Registration fee applies — Participate in a meaningful 5K or 2-mile walk while supporting local cancer patients.

Flat Rocks Climbing Area Adopt-a-Crag Event

10 a.m. – 2 p.m. — Keller-Kirn Park — Free entry — Help improve the climbing area with community projects and enjoy some climbing afterward.

Circleville Pumpkin Show

10 a.m. – 10 p.m. — Circleville Pumpkin Show — Free entry — Explore one of the nation's largest pumpkin festivals featuring homespun Americana flair.

Abracadabra at AHA!

10 AM – 12 PM — AHA! A Hands-On Adventure A Children's Museum — Included with admission — Discover the wizarding world with potion making and wand personalization for aspiring young magicians.

The Phoenix Ball & Fantasy Faire

6-10 p.m. — The Wagnalls Memorial Library — Fundraiser event — A whimsical celebration of fantasy, cosplay, and community spirit benefiting Rise Up Arts Alliance.