This week on The News Man Weekly, it’s a jam-packed show filled with theater, city finance, and community updates. First, we welcome members of the Mansfield Shakespeare Company to preview their upcoming free outdoor production of Twelfth Night at South Park. 

Director Christopher Hartman, assistant director and performer Leanna Uselton, and board member Mary Frankenfield discuss the joys and challenges of outdoor theater as well as the origins and future of the company.

Then, Mansfield Finance Director Kelly Converse joins us to break down the recent $748,000 email phishing scam that hit the city. She details how the fraud occurred, what internal errors contributed to the mistake, and how her office is changing its policies to prevent future attacks. Converse also addresses insurance recovery, cybersecurity reforms, and what state legislation could mean for local government protections.  

Plus, we’ve got your weekly local news rundown — including a proposed tax incentive deal for Ohio Valley Manufacturing, a new $50,000 grant program for downtown businesses affected by the Main Street construction project, a long-term water main replacement plan using voter-approved funds, and a look at what’s next for the revitalized Mansfield Speedway.  

This episode is proudly sponsored by Relax, It’s Just Coffee — downtown Mansfield’s go-to spot for great coffee, fresh pastries, and community conversation.  
Relevant links:

• Racing reimagined: New owners share ambitious vision for Mansfield Speedway
• Homegrown success: 2 Mansfield companies to expand with city help
• Main Street businesses in Mansfield may see financial aid during corridor improvement project
• Remember the main: Mansfield launches $3.6 million project to replace aging infrastructure
• Mansfield finance director: Probe launched into email spoofing scam
  Visit the Mansfield Shakespeare Company Facebook page

Intro song credit: Smoke And Drink, by Luke Watson.

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