Good morning, Lancaster.

Philadelphia-based Five Below plans to open next month in the former Rite Aid at 2600 N.

Willow Street Pike in West Lampeter Township, Lancaster County — offering goods mostly priced between $1 and $5.

The Pennsylvania College of Art & Design in Lancaster is launching a new creative writing major this fall.

Students must complete an internship and capstone project to prepare for jobs in copywriting, editing, or publishing — real skills for a future in writing.

Lancaster County public schools have seen lower enrollment, and an education expert noted that shifting local demographics may be a factor.

School officials are reviewing the numbers to help plan for changes.

Chad Riddle, principal at Rohrerstown Elementary in the Hempfield School District, returned to American Ninja Warrior after eight years to inspire others after his wife's passing — he advanced to the second round before falling in the water.

Local residents remain proud of his effort.

A hearing has been postponed for principal Amy Balsbaugh after the therapy dog Callie died in a hot car in June (following a superintendent request for a private review).

School officials will decide Balsbaugh's future later.

Sen. James Andrew Malone secured a state grant for new desks and replacement furniture for seven Hempfield elementary schools, which he announced yesterday at Centerville Elementary School at 3 p.m. The event included a ceremonial check presentation and a school tour.

Senators John Fetterman and Dave McCormick introduced a bipartisan bill that would designate the invasive spotted lanternfly as a high-priority research initiative from the National Institute of Food and Agriculture.

The measure would grant federal funds to develop research-based tools to help protect Pennsylvania’s agriculture.

Today, U.S. News and World Report released its 2026-2027 Best Hospitals rankings.

Lancaster’s Penn Medicine Lancaster General Hospital was recognized among top regional facilities based on patient outcomes — joining nationally acclaimed centers.

Since Friday, the Pennsylvania Department of Health confirmed nine new measles cases in three counties, including Lancaster.

Lancaster County now reports 104 cases for 2026, plus the statewide total reached 176.

Home Free Concert

7-10 p.m. — American Music Theatre — Ticket prices vary — Experience the harmony of all-vocal country sensations Home Free in a night of upbeat hits and quick-witted humor.

The Doo Wop Project Live

2-3:30 p.m. — American Music Theatre — Check for Ticket Prices — Experience the magic of Doo Wop classics reimagined by Broadway stars in a lively 90-minute show.