Good morning, Mansfield.

Richland County Park District marks its 60th anniversary with a week of free events from Sept.

22 to Sept. 27—activities include a history session at Fleming Falls Preserve, animal feeding at Gorman Nature Center, a campfire story at Hitchman Park, a night ecology walk, a bird walk followed by breakfast, and a community 5K. The events offer hands-on learning and fun for people of all ages in our local community.

Mansfield City Council renamed the portion of Miller Street north of Sixth Street in honor of late Pastor Verdell Larson, with a street sign to be installed ahead of Providence Baptist Church’s 71st anniversary on Oct.

26. The council also approved updates for Main Street improvements—brick work between Fifth and Fourth streets, a bike trail tunnel due Oct. 3—and granted funds for local police training and park projects.

During the Halloween season, the Ohio State Reformatory will transform into Blood Prison to offer visitors a thrilling and spooky attraction.

The historic site, known as a filming location for The Shawshank Redemption, will host themed events for those seeking a scare.

The Ohio Department of Natural Resources and MacGillivray Freeman Films will release the IMAX film Ohio: Wild at Heart this fall and winter to show Ohio’s natural beauty and conservation wins—featuring bald eagles, trumpeter swans, and narration by Ohio native Archie Griffin.

All nine public school districts in Richland County are meeting overall expectations on the latest state report card with ratings ranging from 3 stars to 4.5 stars.

The card measures achievement, progress, gap closing, early literacy, graduation and college readiness—and over 90% of districts earn at least 3 stars.

Mansfield City Schools improved its overall rating to three stars on the state report card released Sept.

15, with progress, gap closing and graduation scores increasing while achievement and early literacy remained the same—Superintendent Stan Jefferson said the district will work hard for a higher target in the next report card due in September 2026. The school community is being recognized for its efforts as they meet state standards and plan for further improvement.

TransUnion experienced a data breach that impacted millions nationwide, including people in central Ohio.

A spokesperson said the breach was stopped within hours — victims will get free credit monitoring services.

Mansfield Symphony: Classical Mansfield Concert

7:30-9:30 p.m. — Renaissance Theatre — Free entry — Experience an extraordinary evening of classical music from a talented orchestra featuring acclaimed soloists.

Kidpreneur Marketplace with Bluey

4-5 p.m. — Butler Branch Library — Donation to The Kidpreneur Club — Enjoy shopping and games while supporting young entrepreneurs and meet Bluey.

Constantine Maroulis & FJ Tribute Concert

7:30-10:30 p.m. — Renaissance Theatre — $25 for Meet & Greet — Experience powerhouse vocals and classic rock anthems in a high-energy celebration of rock history.

Charles Mill Halloween Weekend

6-7 p.m., 7:30-8:30 p.m. — Charles Mill Lake Park — Various activities — Celebrate Halloween with crafts, costume contests, trick-or-treating, and more at the lakeside.

Dracula - Play

2:30-4:00 p.m. — Renaissance Theatre — Tickets starting at $94 — Experience an unforgettable adaptation of Bram Stoker's classic tale.

Pleasant Hill Halloween Weekend

Costume Festivities — Oct 10-11 — Pleasant Hill Lake Park — Free entry — Dress in your best costume and enjoy festive events at the lake!

Dogs, Donuts & Drinks .5K

.5K walk with your dog — 10:30 AM – 12:00 PM — The Phoenix Brewing Company — Entry fee benefits the Humane Society — Enjoy a leisurely stroll with pets, donuts, and drinks.

The sCarolina Film Series - Frankenstein (1931)

7-9:30 p.m. — Mansfield Richland County Public Library — Ticket prices vary — Experience the chilling classic *Frankenstein* on the big screen as part of a beloved film series.

Dracula - A Comedy of Terrors

7:30-9:00 p.m. — The Mansfield Playhouse — Tickets required — Explore the hilarious and terrifying journey of a real estate agent in Transylvania with a comedic twist on the classic tale.

Autumn Fiber Festival

10 AM – 5 PM — Richland County Fairgrounds — Cost varies — Explore local artisan crafts and discover unique fiber creations.